About Vijah Ramjattan

Vijah Ramjattan serves as executive director of OPHC. Ramjattan has over a decade worth of experience in mental health counseling, compliance research practices, and community engagement and advocacy in marginalized communities.

Before being appointed to this role, he served as a senior clinical research program administrator for the New York State Psychiatric Institute-Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene. He previously served as counselor and grievance coordinator on Rikers Island for the New York City Department of Correction.

Earlier in his career, Ramjattan served as president of the Council District 28 Community Education Council, as well as a founder and member of faith-based and community -based organizations, including the New York City Public Schools Interfaith Advisory Council, the United American Hindu Leadership Council, the United Madrassi Association, and multiple mayoral advisory councils. He has also served as an interfaith chaplain for NYC Health + Hospitals/Queens.

Ramjattan earned his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Comparative Religion from The City University of New York’s Hunter College.

Ramjattan reports to MOCJ Director Logan.

About Erica Ware

Erica Ware serves as deputy executive director at OPHC. Ware brings more than a decade of community-based services and victim advocacy to OPHC. She previously served as the deputy director of the Victim Services Unit for the Office of the District Attorney of Richmond County, where she supported victims of gun violence. She was a 2022 Advocate of the Year for the New York City Office to End Gender-Based Violence. Ware holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the College of Staten Island.

Ware reports to OPHC Executive Director Ramjattan.

About Jelissa Thomas

Jelissa Thomas serves as senior program manager of OPHC. Thomas is a seasoned educator who previously served as a master teacher and teacher coach for the Equity Project Charter School. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Masters in Education. 

Thomas reports to OPHC Executive Director Ramjattan.