Meet Dr. Cheley

Born and raised in Simpson, North Carolina, just outside of Greenville, Dr. Alicia Michele Telfaire — affectionately known as Dr. Cheley — is a proud North Carolina Central University alumna, community leader, consultant, nonprofit founder, and entrepreneur passionate about creating opportunities and making a meaningful impact.

A member of NCCU’s Class of 2005, Dr. Cheley earned her Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing before later obtaining her Doctorate in Business Administration with a concentration in Management. Now based in Atlanta, Georgia, she continues to lead with purpose through community initiatives, leadership, and service-driven work.

Known for her energy, authenticity, and ability to bring people together, Dr. Cheley has built platforms rooted in connection, culture, and impact — including Opportunities Make Destinies, Inc. (OMD) and #KickballBAE.

Whether through business, community engagement, or simply inspiring others to dream bigger, Dr. Cheley believes in leading with heart, uplifting others, and creating spaces where people feel empowered to grow and thrive.

My Journey

My journey has been rooted in resilience, faith, service, education, and a passion for creating opportunities for others. Growing up in Simpson, North Carolina, I was raised in a family that valued community, hard work, leadership, and the importance of education. My mother, a high school business teacher and proud graduate of Fayetteville State University, instilled in me the value of learning, leadership, and pouring into others. My father’s service as a veteran also gave me a deep appreciation for sacrifice, discipline, and the importance of supporting those who serve our communities and country.

As a proud graduate of North Carolina Central University, my educational journey continued to shape the woman and leader I am today. From NCCU to building my career and community platforms in Atlanta, every chapter of my journey has strengthened my commitment to leadership, authenticity, perseverance, and service.

My passion for community impact became even more personal after losing a close family member who was like a father to me and a proud veteran. Following his suicide, I founded Opportunities Make Destinies, Inc. (OMD) in remembrance of him and to help create pathways to hope, stability, empowerment, and opportunity for others facing difficult life circumstances. Through OMD, I hope to continue supporting vulnerable communities, including veterans, by helping provide resources, support, and opportunities that can truly change lives.

Whether through nonprofit initiatives, community engagement, business leadership, or #KickballBAE, my journey has always remained centered around connection, impact, and creating spaces where people feel empowered, supported, and inspired to grow.