Our Team

Executive Director

Ashante Collins is the Executive Director of the Campaign for Criminal Justice Transparency (CCJT) in Kalamazoo, MI. Collins has held this position since 2023 and previously served as the co-chair of the organization beginning in 2021. She holds an A.A with honors from Kalamazoo Valley Community College (KVCC), along with a B.S in Psychology with minors in Legal Studies and African and African American Studies from Western Michigan University (WMU). Graduating Magna Cum Laude in 2022, Collins is currently pursing a Masters in Counseling Psychology from WMU as well.

She currently serves as the Anti-Racism Task Force lead at Interfaith Strategy for Advocacy and Action in the Community (ISAAC). She has been a volunteer and member of ISAAC since 2018. Collins has also served as Cradle Kalamazoo’s Health Equity Co-Chair 2022-2023. Ashante is an active member of her community in Kalamazoo helping to combat racism, inequities in the legal systems, as well as helping to eliminate other isms that prevent the advancement of equity between community members and systems that have historically held individuals of color, those in poverty, and others back from receiving and gaining the help they need.

She has volunteered with many different organizations around the county such as the NAACP-MKB, El Concilio, the YMCA as a volunteer coach, the VFW (volunteer), and many more. Collins vision for Kalamazoo aligns with CCJT’s mission of being able to bridge gaps and effectively communicate and advocate for the desires of the community as it pertains to the criminal legal system. She believes that by doing so change not only can happen but that it will be effective, lasting and beneficial to the community in which she lives.

Administrative Assistant

Ty’Asia Edwards was born and raised in Kalamazoo MI and is a passionate advocate for justice and community empowerment. She graduated from Western Michigan University with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and a minor in Legal Studies. As the second oldest of five siblings, Ty’Asia cherishes her strong family ties and values the importance of community.

Ty’Asia's ultimate goal is to make a meaningful impact on the juvenile justice system by pursuing a law degree with a focus on family law. Currently, she is actively involved in the Campaign for Criminal Justice Transparency, where she dedicates her efforts to uplifting and supporting the Black and Brown community, ensuring they receive the transparency and justice they deserve.

Youth Justice Intern

Mariah Wilkerson, known to most as Mari, was born in Jacksonville, Florida, and moved to Kalamazoo, Michigan at the age of two. Growing up in a challenging environment, Mariah experienced firsthand the impact of instability and community violence. These early experiences shaped her deep desire to make a difference and help others—especially youth navigating similar circumstances.

At the age of 14, Mariah was adopted by a supportive and loving guardian who shared her vision for a better future. Now 16, Mariah is actively pursuing her lifelong dream of working in a field that allows her to give back. With a passion for justice and a strong interest in forensic science, she hopes to one day help solve crimes and contribute to safer, more equitable communities.

Mariah joined the Campaign for Criminal Justice Transparency (CCJT) to be part of a movement that aligns with her goals: transforming the justice system and reducing youth involvement in the juvenile justice system. Motivated by her own story and the potential to spark change, she is eager to use this internship to expand her understanding of the law and become a voice for young people in her community.

With the support of her family and CCJT, Mariah is committed to creating a brighter future for herself and others.


Youth Justice Intern

Tray’Vion Dixon is a rising senior at Kalamazoo Central High School, Class of 2026. Born and raised in Kalamazoo, Tray’Vion has spent his entire life in the community he now serves through his internship with the Campaign for Criminal Justice Transparency (CCJT). He plans to attend the Universal Technical Institute (UTI) after graduation to pursue his passion for automotive technology, specifically engine building and performance mechanics.

Known for his focused and thoughtful nature, Tray’Vion is motivated by seeing others excel in doing what they love. His interest in CCJT was sparked by a conversation about youth justice, and he was drawn to the opportunity to be part of something that helps others—especially young Black men like himself—understand their rights, avoid legal trouble, and find paths to success.

Since joining CCJT, Tray’Vion has deepened his knowledge of the court system, legal rights, and the importance of community education. He believes that all young people should have access to this knowledge and is committed to being a voice and advocate for change.

Director of Youth Justice Services

DaNetta R. Julian serves as the Director of Youth Justice Services for the Campaign for Criminal Justice Transparency, where she leads the development of transformative programs aimed at promoting transparency, accountability, and equity within the youth justice system. With over 20 years of experience in public education, Julian has dedicated herself to working closely with students, teachers, and parents—building strong, trust-based relationships that reflect her deep commitment to youth advocacy.

Julian holds a B.A. in Education, Spanish, and English from Western Michigan University, which laid the foundation for her passion for inclusive, student-centered learning. Her dedication to service and lifelong learning led her to earn multiple Master of Arts degrees from the University of Phoenix in Human Services, Curriculum and Instruction, and Adult Learning and Training.

In her current role, Julian is responsible for designing and implementing initiatives that provide greater insight into how young people are treated within the justice system, ensuring that data and community input guide meaningful policy improvements. Her approach centers on collaboration, innovation, and the unwavering belief that young people deserve support, not surveillance.

Julian’s leadership marks a critical advancement in the campaign’s mission to build a more just and inclusive future—one where transparency is not just a goal, but a standard!

Digital Media and IT Coordinator

Kaleb Beiter serves as the Digital Media and IT Coordinator at the Campaign for Criminal Justice Transparency (CCJT), where he supports both technical infrastructure and marketing strategies to help strengthen the campaign’s reach and impact.

Raised in Lawrence and now a proud resident of Kalamazoo, Kaleb has spent the past several years finding meaningful ways to give back to the community he calls home. With two years of hands-on volunteer experience with CCJT and a strong sense of service, he consistently seeks out opportunities to support community-driven change.

In his role at CCJT, Kaleb works to amplify the organization’s message and ensure its digital tools and resources are accessible to all. He is motivated by a simple but powerful goal: to help make Kalamazoo a better, more just place for everyone.

Known for his behind-the-scenes dedication, Kaleb brings both skill and heart to the mission. Through his work, he hopes to raise awareness of CCJT’s efforts and contribute to a more informed and empowered community.

Board of Directors