History

Mrs. Phyllis York and Dr. Lorenzo York established ECLN in 2014 as a charitable, transformative nonprofit organization, driven by a profound passion for challenging youth—particularly middle school females—to achieve their fullest potential in every aspect of their lives.

Today, ECLN stands dedicated to serving middle school girls in Frederick County, Maryland, guided by the unwavering commitment and distinct expertise of its founders.

Meet the leaders shaping this vital mission . . .
Mrs. Phyllis York
As Executive Director and President of ECLN, Mrs. Phyllis York brings over 35 years of dedicated experience to fostering growth and driving positive change. Her impactful career, progressing from Special Educator to Middle School Administrator, has solidified her expertise in nurturing potential and leading educational communities, foundations she now brings to ECLN.

Mrs. York’s commitment is underscored by her academic achievements: a B.S. in Special Education from Dillard University, an M.S. in Human Resource Development/Educational Leadership from Towson University, complemented by postgraduate studies at Hampton and Old Dominion Universities.

​As an alumna of the prestigious Leadership Frederick County (Class of 2017), Mrs. York gained invaluable insights into community challenges and joined a powerful network of over 850 leaders committed to lasting impact. She channels this wealth of knowledge and passion into steering ECLN and empowering the next generation of community leaders.
Dr. Lorenzo York
As Co-Founder and Development Officer of ECLN, Dr. Lorenzo York provides the visionary leadership and strategic direction for the organization. His profound commitment to service and individual empowerment was cultivated over 43 distinguished years of service as a Navy Chaplain.

Dr. York’s academic journey further underscores his expertise in guidance and development. He holds a B.A. in Political Science from Tulane University, an M.Div. in Pastoral Care and Counseling from the Interdenominational Theological Center.

His leadership in fostering advanced learning was also demonstrated during his tenure as Director of the Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) program at a seminary in the Midwest. Dr. York is a licensed consultant in Maryland Nonprofits, and a Leadership Frederick County 2025 graduate.

Board Members

Tsehai Crockett

Community Leader
​Board Chair

Angela Sims, PhD

Interim Secretary, Graduate School

Phil York

Vice Chair

Daphne Freeman

U.S. Army Officer, Retired
​Treasurer

Members At Large

Gerald Bilsky, MD

Community Leader

Breanna Brea

Student, FCC Early College Program

Brenda Jones

Community Leader

Leslie Kinkead

Community Leader

Susan Mangold

Educator, Retired
Community Leader

Chowan Brightful

Community Leader

Dr. Benita Rashaw

Community Leader

Senior Staff

Phyllis A. York (MS)

Empowering Community Leaders Network, Inc.,
​Executive Director

Lorenzo York, DMin

Empowering Community Leaders Network, Inc.,
​Development Officer

ECLN is a proud member of