Meet Dr. Deana, the maestro behind Next Level Strategies! As a Grant and Growth Readiness Coach, she propels clients to success with personalized consulting services. With a proven track record for securing more than $24.3 Million (and counting) for clients, her CEO Accelerator Program is the key for new entrepreneurs and nonprofit founders seeking to meticulously plan, proof, and position their dream businesses for optimal success in securing grants and contracts in 6 weeks or less.
Hello, I’m Dr. D
What People Say About Working With Me:
Over the years, I’ve had the honor of working with 100+ organizations — from grassroots nonprofits and youth programs to small business startups and large community organizations. Whether launching a brand, developing strategy, or empowering communities, I’m proud to bring vision to life.
Here’s what clients, collaborators, and change-makers have to say about our work together.
Dr. Ervin is the epitome of a leader, a visionary, and a staple within the community. Her passion for people is what drives her, and it shows in each part of her life journey. She is fearless, and understands there is a need to shift narratives and create space for the next generation of world leaders. Most importantly, she is dedicated to offering Black youth in this country a voice, an example, and a vehicle for elevation.
Corey Smith, Digital Marketing Chair - Morehouse College
Dr. Ervin is one of the most dedicated and influential advocates for all children.
Janita Webb, Vice Principal Kansas City, KS Public Schools
Dr. Ervin is a truly inspiring professional who is very passionate about and experienced in issues of youth development, community building, and urban development. She has the unique ability of combining practical experience with a critical, academic knowledge, which makes her an amazing mentor and leader across various fields.
Burcu Baykurt, Assistant Professor Urban Futures & Communication
Dr. Ervin is a truly inspirational individual. She opened my eyes to the needs of a highly at-risk population, provided on-site oversight and leadership to our program, while helping me expand my own abilities in the non-profit and human service arena. I will never stop using the lessons she taught me and those with whom I served; given the opportunity, I would collaborate with her on any and all projects in the future.
Nick DiGammo, Lead Case Manager/AmeriCorps NCCC
Dr. Ervin has shown a lifetime of commitment to helping the vulnerable to flourish. For college bound youth, she provides the vision for students to strive beyond what they think achievable, while providing the ongoing mentoring and coaching for them to achieve these challenging goals.
Nick Jehle, United Way KC
Few people have the opportunity to work with and be mentored by someone like Dr.Ervin. I had the pleasure of working with and along side her for a few years, collaborating on several projects. I was always in awe of Dr. Ervin’s ability to command a room and get people on board with ideas- even people who were initially on a completely separate page. She marries having the heart and skill level to meet the needs of all she comes in contact with.
Tiffany Green, Education Coordinator, University of Kansas
Dr. Ervin is a community leader, who is committed to making a difference in the lives of those she serves. During our time in service, Deana leveraged her resources to connect Youth to opportunities that strengthened their minds and increased their ability to thrive!
Stephenie Smith, Former YMCA Director
Working with Dr. Ervin is always a pleasure! Her commitment to education, young people and community ALWAYS brings success.
Kim Lynch, Health Care Marketing Specialist
Dr. Deana has been a pleasure to work with and one of the most resourceful individuals I have come across.
Dre Taylor, Nile Valley Aquaponics Founder
Working with Dr. Ervin helped me tremendously in my career from personal consulting, learning effective networking skills, and planning for my future.
Mike’s Movement ~ Founder & CEO
Over the years I watcher her take over all 19 campuses in the metro area and expand services exponentially. The staff (300+) were so fresh and enthusiastic and under her leadership they became highly skilled.
Jeff Miller, Psychologist & Author, Blue Springs Psychological Services
Dr. Deana was the most thorough, intellectual and structured mentor that I could ever ask for. During my dissertation phase, I found it difficult to stay focused considering the many hats I wore and directions I was pulled in, Dr. Deana kept me focused on the goal and that was to become Dr. Baptiste. Thanks to her expertise and mentorship, I was able to be hooded. I will always remember how devoted she was to my educational success. I am forever grateful to you.
Dr. Karimah L Baptiste
Dr. Ervin is very dedicated to helping the community. This was demonstrated through the GitHub Scholars Program, which I was an intern for and a program that she organized. Through the GitHub Scholars program we were able to get partnerships with GoogleFiber, BlueFletch, MailChimp, Patchwerk Recording Studios, and other technology companies based in Atlanta. In addition, we were able to take high school students on college visits. Overall, the program really aided the students in so many ways. She really wants the best for the next generation and works hard so they can succeed. Lastly, working for her as an intern I gained many skills that have already and will be useful in my future career. I am very thankful that she gave me a chance to work for her.
Jahsleigh Rochelle, Masters Health Administration Candidate, Columbia University
Dr. Ervin is an exceptional leader and life advocate for education and academic success. Under her leadership, mentorship, and care I have gained insight, knowledge, and experiences that I would not have otherwise been privileged.
Richard Abram II, Dean of Students, Ewing Marion Kauffman School
Ready to take your vision to the next level?
Whether you're building something new or need clarity on your next move — I'm here to help you make it happen.
Let’s connect and create something impactful, together.
