Washington, Erika A.: - Erika Washington (formerly Erika Gary) was born and raised in Piscataway, New Jersey. She received her BS in electrical engineering from Howard University, and her MS in electrical engineering from North Carolina A&T State University. Erika is currently a divorced mom of one son, and she resides in Maryland. Since childhood, she has had a passion for dance, exercise, and self-improvement. She has received fitness certifications through AFAA (Athletics and Fitness Association of America) and was certified by the legendary Billy Blanks as a Tae Bo(R) instructor.