Who Are We
I am pleased to announce a new concept set to debut by the end of the first quarter of 2021. It is a stand-alone Magazine named Three-Fifths. Why the name “Three-Fifths?” The inspiration for the concept of three-fifths was inspired by a series of articles in the Accord1 Blog. The articles identify the constitutional pillar of the devaluation of African Americans’ humanity and its extrapolation into a system of injustice.
The Three-Fifths Compromise written into the constitution in 1787 allowed southern slave states to enumerate the African Slave population’s bodies to bolster their representation in the federal government. Yet, this population was apportioned out of the American experiment by a mathematical equation that stated that the African slave population would require five, i.e., the Three-Fifths Compromise for every three white people. All the while, they had no vote.
Why a magazine and why now? Three-Fifths is simply the next progression on the way to the ultimate goal of Building the Bridge Together. Through a thoughtful conversation involving societal reckoning, racial equity, historical perspective, and spiritual insight, it is the hope that this magazine will become one of the many tools used to dismantle Systemic Racism. Understanding that Systemic racism involves the inequity affecting many brown, black, and indigenous people across America, Three-Fifths offers a voice of clarity in an ambiguous world of racial bias.
Three-Fifths is not just a vehicle for following the latest story of injustice, police shootings, etc. though we will remain current. We want to speak from a 50,000-foot big picture perspective to inspire the readers to empower and motivate stakeholders, fostering real change. With our launch, we want to speak from the heart with entries about tangible ways that communities of the majority can reach out in partnership with marginalized communities of color in ways that are not patronizing but collaborative.
“And what does the Lord require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God?” Micah 6:8b New King James Version
Our contributors bring varied and unique experiences, worldviews, and intellect, not only to identify the problem but to offer solutions to this continuing difficulty America faces. They represent the ethnic diversity that guarantees a multiplicity of thought equal to the comprehensive problem’s task while paving a way toward solutions.
“Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.”
James Baldwin
PUBLISHER/EDITOR AND FOUNDER
Kevin Robinson has been a pioneer in the area of diversity, having lived it being raised in Perry Township, Ohio as a young child of the first African American Family in the area and school.
With all of the negative realities of pre-nineteen-seventies suburbia serving as a focal point in his life, he chose unity over division. Many years in the making through a long career as a professional Fire Fighter, 1985-2018), bachelor degreed senior co-pastor (1993-2001), staff pastor (2004-2006), evangelist, consultant, and mentor/mediator to many in the area of multicultural ministry.
Kevin and his wife, Beverly, have established a track record of building up multi-ethnic congregations and Building Bridges in the corporate world. Kevin and Beverly are also Authors of the book entitled The Coat of Many. Colors.
Kevin has been a consistent voice for the voiceless and a “Bridge Builder” in the founding of Accord1. In this perspective, the initial apparatus to promote Synergy could offer the development of intersections between various ethnic communities, i.e., “Building the Bridge Together” over the ethnic-cultural divide.”
“The term Synergy describes the pattern by which phenomena relates to each other including how people relate to each other and other phenomena. A synergistic pattern brings phenomena together interrelating them, creating an often unexpected, new, and greater result from the disparate, seemingly conflicting parts.”
Synergy, Healing and Empowerment Richard Katz 2012
With the events of the 2020 Racial Reckoning, Kevin continued to elevate as a voice for those who have been left behind, inhibiting a true synergy. The urgency of the moment dictated a need toward the call for racial justice to achieve a genuine and lasting synergy. Kevin has led many groups and town hall meetings on racial justice as a traveled speaker, both domestically and internationally. Kevin has facilitated as a discussion leader and built small group ministry models for ministries both large and small. He has also led many larger group conversations/workshops of books and video series, including White Fragility, The Color of Compromise, Divided No More, etc. Henceforth the founding of Three-Fifths Magazine became an independent apparatus for working toward racial justice by embodying the principles captured in the scripture of Micah 6:8
“He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the LORD require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God?” Micah 6:8 NKJV
CONTRIBUTORS
Dr. Tashuna Albritton is a Tenured Associate Medical Professor at the City University of New York (CUNY) School of Medicine in the Department of Community Health and Social Medicine. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology and African American Studies from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1998. In 2002, she obtained a Master of Social Work from Howard University and practiced as a clinical social worker before returning to theUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill to pursue a doctorate in Social Work, which shecompleted in 2011.
Following her doctorate, Dr. Albritton completed a three-year postdoctoral fellowship at Yale University’s Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS from 2011 to 2014. She then worked as a Research Associate at The Consultation Center, affiliated with the Yale School of Medicine’s Department of Psychiatry, before joining the CUNY School of Medicine in 2016.
Dr. Albritton has extensive expertise in community-based HIV/sexually transmitted infection
(STI) prevention intervention research, with a focus on underrepresented minority adolescents
and young adults in both urban and rural settings. Her work employs mixed-methods and
participatory approaches to explore individual risk factors for HIV/STIs, interpersonal relationships, and systemic and structural factors that contribute to disparities in sexual and
reproductive health outcomes among young and historically disadvantaged populations. Dr.
Albritton collaborates with communities and public health institutions to advance biomedical
HIV prevention efforts and address barriers to accessing care and services.
Dr. Gabriela Alcalde is a public health professional, a creative, values-driven, and anti-supremacist philanthropic and nonprofit leader/speaker/writer. Her first book, “What Your Comfort Costs Us: How Women of Color Reimagine Leadership to Transform Workplace Culture,” is available in paperback, e-book, and audiobook formats wherever books are sold.
Tracy Alexis, PhD is an Industrial and Organizational Psychologist with a lengthy career assisting numerous private and public businesses, government entities, Tribes, nonprofits, and Fortune 100 companies. She is passionate about equal rights for every citizen and is a formidable Social Justice Warrior, fighting the good fight every day. She coaches a proprietary DEI curriculum to entities of every size that are interested in understanding why DEI is now more important than ever before around the globe.
Yasmin is a passionate healthcare leader dedicated to transforming care delivery across diverse settings—from fast-paced hospitals to the intricate world of operational compliance. With a focus on building systems that uphold patient rights, ensure high-quality care, and reduce risk, she champions practical, people-centered compliance strategies. Her work is rooted in a deep commitment to community impact, striving to create equitable healthcare environments where all individuals are seen, respected, and cared for. Yasmin a Virginia native, remains a long-time member of First Baptist Church Mahan, of Suffolk Virginia under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Steven G. Blunt. Yasmin is an active volunteer with several local organizations benefiting families, women, and children in Columbus, Ohio. She also serves as a board member of the Central Ohio chapter of the National Association of Health Services Executives empowering the next generation of health care leaders to participate in the design, direction, and delivery of quality health care to all.
Trent Ball serves as the inaugural Senior Director, Postsecondary Equity and Attainment, for the Missouri College and Career Attainment Network (MOCAN). MOCAN exists to ensure Missouri students who could most benefit from education beyond high school have what they need to earn a credential leading to a rewarding career. MOCAN is a network of institutions, organizations, and professionals committed to greater equity in college and career access, affordability, and completion. By working for change at the institutional and systems levels, MOCAN aspires to create a postsecondary education system where outcomes are no longer predictable by race or socio-economic status.
As Senior Director, Mr. Ball leads MOCAN’s postsecondary attainment strategy including the Postsecondary Equity Network (PEN), as well as the organization’s research agenda and advocacy
work. Prior to joining MOCAN, Trent retired from Southeast Missouri State University in May 2022 and holds the title Associate Provost Emeritus. During his tenure at Southeast, he provided leadership and management of the Academic Support Centers, including Educational Access Programs, Learning Assistance Programs, and the TRIO Programs (McNair Scholars and Student Support Services). Ball has a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and Psychology from Culver-Stockton College, a Master of Arts in Psychological Counseling and Therapy and has completed coursework in the Master of Public Administration program at Southeast Missouri State University.
Kate Bareman is the Director of Student Care and Engagement and the Director of Intercultural Advancement at Western Theological Seminary in Holland, MI, where she received a Masters in Christian Ministry. She is the Vice President of Women of Color Give, a philanthropic collective of women of color who center belonging, empowerment and investing by distributing grants to organizations that support the advancement, development and promotion of BIPOC in her community.
Dr. Shawna Barnett wears many hats as a Psychologist, Adjunct Professor, Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist, Certified Life Coach, resilience change agent, author, publisher, and speaker that has takes every aspect and God given gift serious. She pioneered The Global Personal Realignment Theory, which highlights the potent force of self-efficacy, self-autonomy, positivity, resilience, in conquering life’s challenges. However, her mission is singular: to elevate confidence, reignite self-esteem, realign cognitive thought patterns for positivity, help build/rebuild resilience, and restore purpose. Shawna’s passion is writing, reading, speaking, and assisting others to overcome and persevere through tough times in life while coming out on top in a healthy and healing manner. She uses her platform to reach as many as she can that express the need to grow and move beyond their pain. With an understanding of trauma’s intricate maze, she is dedicated to turning life’s adversities into triumph. Dr. Barnett empowers individuals to thrive against adversity.
Dr. Lance Bennett is the President and Founder of The People’s Institute for the Common Good, a non-profit organization with a big vision to create spaces where people come together to learn from each other, wrestle with hard questions, and serve their communities for the common good. He is also a Visiting Scholar at the Samuel DeWitt Proctor Institute for Leadership, Equity & Justice and Center for Minority Serving Institutions at Rutgers University.
Dr. Bennett is an adjunct faculty member in the Doctor of Education in Leadership and Higher Education Program at St. Edward’s University. In the higher education profession, he serves on the Editorial Advisory Board of Liberal Education, the flagship magazine of the American Association of Colleges and Universities. He is also a published author with articles published in the disciplines of higher education, teaching learning, and interpersonal communication.
He is a graduate of Delaware County Community College (A.A.), Eastern University (B.A.), West Chester University (M.A.), University of Iowa (M.A.) with studies in interpersonal and organizational communication, and St. Edward’s University (Ed.D.) in Leadership and Higher Education.
Rev. Joel A. Bowman, Sr. (@JoelABowmanSr) is a native of Detroit, Michigan. He serves as the founder and senior pastor of the Temple of Faith Baptist Church, in Louisville, Kentucky. Joel also maintains a practice as a licensed clinical social worker with nearly 30 years of experience in the mental health field. His commentaries and poems have been printed in numerous publications. Joel is married and he and his wife, Nannette, have three children, Kayla, Katie, and Joel, Jr.
Dr. Adrienne Bradford stands at the intersection of behavioral science and transformative workplace leadership. As an organizational psychologist whose doctoral research at Adler University examined how structural racism produces inequitable employment outcomes for Black women, Dr. Adrienne applies fundamental psychological principles—including cognitive bias theory, organizational behavior dynamics, and social identity frameworks—to create evidence-based solutions for workplace equity.
At Integral Ad Science, where she serves as Global Director of Talent Engagement and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Dr. Adrienne designs strategies grounded in psychological science that challenge conventional approaches. Her methodology integrates cognitive-behavioral principles with trauma-informed practices and cultural psychology—making her particularly effective at creating psychologically safe environments where marginalized employees can truly thrive.
Fortune 500 companies including McDonald’s, PepsiCo, AT&T, and JPMorgan Chase have benefited from Dr. Adrienne’s approach, which translates complex theoretical concepts into actionable frameworks with measurable outcomes. Her work exemplifies how organizational psychology principles—when applied with cultural context—can transform workplace dynamics. As a mother to a son with a disability, Dr. Adrienne brings both professional expertise and personal commitment to her advocacy for inclusive spaces.
Dr. Adrienne’s vision extends beyond corporate metrics to genuine systemic change. She applies principles of behavioral economics, group dynamics, and change management to transform workplace cultures by addressing the root causes of inequity. Her work demonstrates how evidence-based scientific methods combined with genuine human empathy create lasting organizational change that benefits generations to come.
Carolynne Hitter Brown
At a very young age, Carolynne had questions about the racial inequity she saw growing up outside Detroit. White and privileged, finding answers was hard. Music is her first love and was the only way she knew to express the questions and explore the ambiguities she longed to understand. Pursuing a Bachelor and Master of Music, she served in an array of urban churches and community organizations where she led worship and encouraged community.
In time, questions burned more deeply as she observed the power of music to agitate and elevate. She pursued her doctoral degree in history and worship at Boston University where she intimately studied the Black Church tradition and sought to
understand the ways Black music transforms, connects, and heals its participants. A social historian, Carolynne knows religious experience to be informed and influenced by political, economic, and cultural realities and recognizes Black music as a form of resistance. Deep archival research and a desire to bring Black history to the forefront of modern conversations led to the writing of her forthcoming book, Singing Through Struggle: Music, Worship, and Identity in Postemancipation Black Churches. Carolynne is Adjunct Professor of Christian History at Gordon-Conwell Seminary in Hamilton, MA and the Campus for Urban Ministerial Experience in Boston.
Dr. Karida Brown is a sociologist, professor, oral historian, and public intellectual whose research centers on the fullness of Black life. A proud graduate of Temple University, the University of Pennsylvania, and Brown University, she currently teaches sociology at Emory University. She has authored six books, including The Sociology of W.E.B. Du Bois and the award-winning The New Brownies’ Book: A Love Letter to Black Families. Her upcoming book, The Battle for the Black Mind is forthcoming Spring 2025 with Legacy Lit by Hachette Book Group.
Dr. Darrell Norman Burrell is a visiting scholar at the Samuel DeWitt Proctor Institute for Leadership, Equity, and Justice at Rutgers University, where he is currently focusing his research on sustainability, health equity, and inclusive leadership. His work as a visiting researcher at the Pellegrino Center for Clinical Bioethics at the Georgetown University Medical Center in Washington, D.C., and as a post-doctoral public health researcher at the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy in Baltimore, MD, has provided him with a unique perspective on issues related to health disparities, health technology access, telehealth, adolescent health, and health literacy.
For more than 12 years, he has also served in various roles as a doctoral faculty member, dissertation chair, and research panel participant at Marymount University, the Florida Institute of Technology, Capitol Technology University, the University of Liverpool in the U.K., and The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Washington D.C. Dr. Burrell is a Certified Diversity Professional and a Certified Executive Coach. Dr. Burrell is an alumnus of the Presidential Management Fellows Program www.pmf.gov with the U.S. Federal Government and U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, where he managed and developed leadership and diversity programs for professionals in Public Health, Environmental Health, Emergency Response, Technology, and Engineering. Academically, Dr. Burrell has three doctorate degrees and six graduate degrees, including a Master of Research in Artificial Intelligence Biotechnology Applications and Healthcare, along with additional graduate degrees in (H.R. Management, Management, Health Leadership, Sales and Marketing Management, Higher Education Administration, and Interfaith Action and Conflict Management).
Dr. Burrell received his first doctoral degree in health education (DHEd), focusing on environmental public health and executive leadership coaching, at A.T. Still University in 2010. Dr. Burrell completed his 2nd doctorate, a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Cybersecurity Leadership at Capitol Technology University. In 2022, Dr. Burrell completed his 3rd Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in Supply Chain Management at Capitol Technology University. He has over 20 years of management, teaching, and training experience in academia, government, and private industry. Dr. Burrell has over 200 peer-reviewed publications and more than 1200 Google Scholar citations. Dr. Burrell can be reached at darrell.burrell@yahoo.com
Robert L. Caldwell, Jr. Executive Director, AnswerPoverty.Org Robert has been a practitioner and thought leader focusing on the issues of poverty and race for more than thirty years. He is the founder or co-founder of several different social and human service programs including the R.O.W.T.EA.M.S. Program (Residents off Welfare Teaching Educating Achieving Motivating Success), which won the Governor’s Award for Excellence in Public Service in the State of Ohio. He served as the Managing Director of the YWCA Family Center, Franklin County’s (Ohio) only emergency homeless family shelter offering an array of support to homeless families. During his tenure, the shelter served over 1500 families and received national recognition from the National Alliance to End Homelessness. In 2016, Robert received the prestigious Distinguished Service Award from The Ohio State University for his work in the Weinland Park Community (Columbus, Ohio). He currently provides professional development training for both professional and volunteer practitioners who work to interrupt the cycle of generational poverty. Trainings include Poverty, Race, Class & Culture and the Cost of Poverty Experience.
Education
B. A. from Denison University (Granville, Ohio) in Corporate and Organizational Communication with emphasis in English and Organizational Psychology. This degree also included coursework at The Ohio State University in Politics and American Culture.
Graduate studies at Trinity Lutheran Seminary (Columbus, Ohio) in Religious Education, Family Counseling and Pastoral Counseling; and at The University of Dayton (at Capital University) in Counseling, Group Therapy and Ethics in Professional Helping. He is a Graduate and Fellow of the Ray Miller Institute for Change & Leadership at The Ohio State University African & African American Studies Extension Center in Columbus, Ohio.
Dr. Medina-Cortes is an agent of change who believes everyone should have access to an education. Dr. Medina-Cortes graduated from Columbia Southern University with a Doctorate of Business Administration, Master of Organizational Leadership, Bachelor of Criminal Justice Administration, and Eastland-Fairfield Police academy, where she was voted to lead as the class President, ensuring everyone in her class passed the Ohio Peace Officer State exam. Dr. Medina-Cortes has worked in the criminal justice system for over fifteen years seeing the justice and injustices of individuals. Dr. Medina-Cortes has over 10 years of experience as an investigator of financial – white-collar crimes. Dr. Medina-Cortes is also an educator, Adjunct Instructor, and police academy instructor who has taught on community policing, interview and interrogation, domestic violence, and a few other topics.
Dr. Medina-Cortes has spearheaded a translation committee to obtain translated brochures in Spanish in order to better equip and educate the Latino-Hispanic community on available resources. In her efforts of being successful in the creation of the translation committee, Dr. Medina-Cortes and team were awarded a teamwork award.
Dr. Medina-Cortes has dedicated many years of her life to volunteering within the community where she resides, serving and educating those underserved and underprivileged communities. An advocate and a voice for the unspoken. A native of Puerto Rico, and the first and only family member to obtain a doctoral degree.
Doc Courage! (also known officially as Dr. Angela Courage-Mellott) is the CEO of Courage! Communication 4 Change, author, speaker, and university teaching faculty member.
She holds a Master of Arts in communication with focus in interracial and intercultural communication. Her Doctorate in Higher Education with emphasis in College Teaching and Faculty Leadership equip her to empower student, pastors, church leaders, and employers to build bridges of communication in the classroom, organizations, community, and across cultural groups.
Her intentionally multiethnic and multicultural life experiences and lifestyle led her to focus on the science of interracial and intercultural communication, which together uniquely qualify her to lead healthy conversations that empower people to better communicate with diverse others.
Dr. Courage creates, facilitates, and speaks at events as a dynamic educator on interracial & intercultural communication, conflict & faith’s role in personal and organizational inclusion, diversity, and creating equity by amplifying the voices of marginalized people groups, and educating audiences to connect history with modernity.
Dr. Courage has co-authored “5 Blinders to Seeing Colorr” with her friend and colleague Dr. LaTonya Jackson, and has written a study guide to accompany the “Loving Our Neighbors” workshop which she designed and facilitates at faith based organizations. Her “Loving Our Neighbors” workshop, is a resource to help faith-based organizations become more representative of the Kingdom of God in behavior towards diverse people groups and diversity within local church bodies and the larger community.
Dr. Courage’s mantra is, “The quality of your communication dictates the quality of your relationships.”
Daniel E. Dawes, J.D.,
Founding Dean
School of Global Health
Meharry Medical College
Make sure to read his article on November 1st, right before election day.
Daniel E. Dawes, is a widely respected healthcare and public health leader, health policy expert, educator, and researcher who serves as Senior Vice President of Global Health and Founding Dean of the School of Global Health at Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tennessee. He is the author of two groundbreaking health policy books, 150 Years of ObamaCare and The Political Determinants of Health, both published by Johns Hopkins University Press.
Dean Dawes is an elected member of the National Academy of Medicine and an elected fellow of the New York Academy of Medicine. He serves as an advisor to The White House on health equity initiatives, an appointed member of the CDC’s Advisory Committee to the Director where he co-chairs the CDC’s health equity working, and the NIH’s National Advisory Council for Nursing Research.
My name is Mary Descheeny-Reyna, MSW, THRP. I am Tsé Nahabiłnii (Sleep Rock People); Ma’ii Deeshgiizhinii (Coyote Pass), Tódich’ii’nii (Bitter Water clan)and Honágháahnii (One Walks Around), I am a strong, resilient Navajo (Dine) woman, wife & mother. I am a sister to an Army Ranger, a daughter to a Special Forces Green Beret, granddaughter to a Navajo Code Talker and niece to American Indian Movement (AIM) activists. I was born and raised on the Navajo Nation and currently reside in the Phoenix metro area.
I am humbled and blessed to say I am a Navajo female entrepreneur of a Human Resources company, Indigenous Workplace Solutions, LLC. Through my work, my goal is to empower & strengthen Indigenous organizations and their personnel by providing an unbiased, meticulous approach to identifying workplace challenges. This is important to me because we spend our days at work supporting ourselves and our families, to learn new skills with the hopes of advancements, promotions & higher pay to care for our families.
I am also a social worker; therefore, I am a voice and advocate for those who cannot speak/ act for themselves. I will stand up, I will say something, and I will act for this is my choice.
I am one who honors the strength, beauty and power of our Mother Earth and all her beauty, our traditional sacraments, our cultures, stories, songs, dances, languages, prayers, and creation stories. I am imperfect but I am always willing to learn, offer my heart, a hug, a smile and encouraging words. I am an admirer and encourager of our Indigenous RESILIENCE. What is most meaningful to me is to know my ancestors had a purpose for me. They FOUGHT, suffered, sacrificed, and prayed for our generations to accomplish what we can for our People. The beauty of my grandmothers & mother – their kindness, their ever-giving hearts, and love of family & faith. With their guidance and role modeling I know I can endure what’s before me with an open heart – to understand, to empathize, to listen and to communicate with honesty, genuineness, and kindness. I understand what is before me is presented by our Creator, for which I am meant to learn from – the realization of this is humbling, as the challenges are given from a place of lessons to be learned and to eventually be taught.
As a learner I am always aim to self-improve, I constantly ask, “what could I have done better?”, “what did I miss?”, “what could I have done differently?”. I am humbled to be in the company of three-fifths, and extend gratitude and strength to those who lovingly give of themselves for a better, kinder tomorrow for all.
Esther Dillard is the author of “Raising an Autistic Young Adult: A Parents’ Guide to ASD Safety, Communication, and Employment Opportunities to Empower Black and Brown Caregivers and Their Families.” With a rich background that spans authorship,
journalism, podcast hosting, and public speaking,
Esther has established herself as a multifaceted expert in communication and storytelling. You can catch her on the 24 hour news radio source: The Black Information Network. And she hosts her own podcast segment called: The Color Between the Lines where she interviews authors of color who have new releases.
Hailing from Buffalo, New York, Esther’s career in media is marked by her dynamic roles across several prominent media markets. She has been a familiar face and voice as a reporter and anchor at various respected stations, including WBGO-FM, KTVU-Ch2 in San Francisco, CBS-3 in Philadelphia, WGRZ-TV2 in Buffalo, NY, and WEYI-Ch 25 in Flint, Michigan. This extensive experience has not only honed her skills in journalism but also deepened her understanding of diverse communities and stories.
Beyond her work in media, Esther’s passion for education and communication led her to Bloomfield College in Bloomfield, New Jersey, where she served as a communications professor. Her teaching portfolio is as impressive as it is comprehensive, covering courses like Writing for Radio and Television, Broadcast Journalism (TV production), News Gathering, Intro to Mass Communications, and Public Speaking.
Today, Esther continues to inspire and educate through her writing, speaking engagements, and her podcast, where she delves into various topics that resonate with a broad audience. Her latest book is a testament to her commitment to providing valuable resources and support, particularly to the caregivers of black and brown communities navigating the challenges of autism.
Dr. Angel Durr, a globally recognized keynote speaker, shares an inspiring narrative that intertwines entrepreneurship, tech innovation, and artistic passion. With a diverse background spanning data science, systems automation, and application development, Dr. Durr’s expertise is unmatched in the corporate landscape.
Her journey began with early entrepreneurial ventures and a deep involvement in technology, fueled by pivotal experiences on the Obama campaign trail. As one of the youngest leaders in her field, Dr. Durr has continually pushed the boundaries of innovation, pioneering virtual operations and digital-focused automation strategies.
As a mother, professor, and corporate leader, Dr. Durr’s story of resilience and determination resonates with audiences worldwide. Beyond her professional accomplishments, she is a dynamic force in the arts, with a background in acting, modeling, and musical theater.
As a global keynote speaker, Dr. Durr brings her unique blend of expertise and passion to the stage, captivating audiences with her insights on technology, diversity, and innovation. Her engaging presentations inspire change and empower individuals and organizations to embrace diversity and drive meaningful transformation.
Rev. Dr. Kelly U. Farrow is a visionary womanist theologian, dynamic preacher, and educator whose work bridges ministry, academia, and business. Celebrated for integrating theology with leadership, ethics, and social justice, she is a sought-after speaker and scholar.
She holds a B.S. in Business and Bible, an MBA in Human Resource Management, an M.Div. in Theology and Apologetics, and a Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration. She has earned certifications in Black Theology, Leadership, and Homiletics from institutions including Princeton Theological Seminary and Vanderbilt University.
Dr. Farrow’s impact spans institutions such as Spelman, Morehouse, Yale Divinity, and Hampton University Ministers Conference. She curates McAfee Circle at McAfee School of Theology and collaborates on Flourish Conference for Women Leaders.
In 2018, she founded Circle of SacredFire, a premier Black preaching intensive empowering clergy in ministry. In 2025, The Kelly U. Farrow Institute for Black Preaching and Education (The K. Institute) marks its seventh anniversary, continuing its mission of training clergy in Black preaching, social justice, and leadership. This year, she launched Wellness Circle, focusing on self-care and mental health for Black women clergy.
Her ministry includes leadership roles at Double Love Experience Church (Brooklyn) and Convent Ave. Baptist Church (Harlem). She facilitates cohorts through The Ministry Collaborative and teaches homiletics and womanism at Union Theological Seminary in partnership with Bedford Hills Correctional Facility for Women, making history as the first womanist scholar to integrate academic womanism with incarcerated Black women’s experiences. Dr. Farrow also teaches Business at Devry University.
Farrow is at the helm of reshaping Black Preaching, Black Culture, and Black Church! Connect with Dr. Farrow on YouTube at The Kelly U. Farrow Institute for Black Preaching and Education | on the web at http://www.DrKellyFarrow.org | and her socials -IG & FB: @DrKellyFarrow
Hi, my name is Rosalyn Francis. I am a native of Houston, Texas. I am an Aspiring real estate developer, exporter and importer of goods and services, community developer, and organizer. Our mission and goal are to create an automatic system where we can do business with other municipalities locally, state, and internationally. Our goal is to reach 193 countries world-wide.
I am the Founder and CEO of Global Supplier, LLC “NCLB” No Community Left Behind. We create and design eco-systems to help develop and sustain rural and urban communities. We collaborate with Aerospace and Airport systems, unrepresented and unutilized communities to help create and design sustainable solutions. Our special industries include manufacture, agriculture, sustainable woodwork designs, construction, export/import services.
I am a high achiever and motivated self-starter who manages to infuse enthusiasm and life into everything I touch. With a professional background that includes experience in organizational, operational, business start-ups; mentorship, non-profit and for-profit, sectors, management, design and creativity, my background allows me to demonstrate my expertise in the areas of community development, community design, training, systematic organizations, development and deployment of complex solutions in operations. I am an authentic leader with lofty goals, impressive visions and dreams and the education and motivation to achieve them. I am an energetic executive who excels at creative solutions. I create high level team projects and accomplish the impossible. I am respected and admired on a professional and individual level by all who I meet and work with. I offer a powerful combination of advanced education as a mentor to incarcerated youth, elementary, middle school, and first year college students. I find volunteering to be extremely rewarding and has spent most of my time after Hurricane Harvey, the Pandemic, and the Winter Storm volunteering and organizing events in the community. We distributed tons of food, water, and non-perishable food to the community. We also restored 10 Harvey homes; completed plumbing for residents during the winter storm and provided over 2500 meals to seniors during the pandemic. I was taught from childhood that you must work hard to successfully realize your goals, be persistent, and continue to make progress even when times are tough. Hard work and long hours have been my constant companion even before I reached the age of 10.
Marybeth Gasman is the Samuel DeWitt Proctor Endowed Chair in Education, a Distinguished Professor, and the Associate Dean for Research in the Graduate School of Education at Rutgers University.She also serves as the Executive Director of the Samuel DeWitt Proctor Institute for Leadership, Equity & Justice and the Executive Director of the Rutgers Center for Minority Serving Institutions. Prior to joining the faculty at Rutgers, Marybeth was the Judy & Howard Berkowitz Marybeth Gasman is the Samuel DeWitt Proctor Endowed Chair in Education, a Distinguished Professor, and the Associate Dean for Research in the Graduate School of Education at Rutgers University.
She also serves as the Executive Director of the Samuel DeWitt Proctor Institute for Leadership, Equity & Justice and the Executive Director of the Rutgers Center for Minority Serving Institutions. Prior to joining the faculty at Rutgers, Marybeth was the Judy & Howard Berkowitz Endowed Professor in the Graduate School of Education at the University of Pennsylvania. She is the author or editor of 35 books, including Educating a Diverse Nation (Harvard University Press, 2015 with Clif Conrad), Envisioning Black Colleges (Johns Hopkins University Press, 2007), Making Black Scientists (Harvard University Press, 2019 with Thai-Huy Nguyen), Doing the Right Thing: How to End Systemic Racism in Faculty Hiring (Princeton University, 2022),HBCU: The Power of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (Johns Hopkins University Press, 2024), and her newest book Why Historically Black Colleges Matter: 25 Years of Research for Justic (Teachers College Press, 2025).
Marybeth has written over 300 peer-reviewed articles, scholarly essays, and book chapters. She has penned over 650 opinion articles for the nation’s newspapers and magazines and is ranked by Education Week as one of the 20 most influential education scholars in the nation. Marybeth has raised over $24 million in grant funding to support her research and that of her students, mentees, and MSI partners. She has served on the board of trustees of The College Board as well as historically Black colleges – Paul Quinn College, Morris Brown College, and St. Augustine College. She considers her proudest accomplishment to be receiving the University
of Pennsylvania’s Provost Award for Distinguished Ph.D. Teaching and Mentoring, serving as the dissertation chair for over 85 doctoral students since 2000. Marybeth is an avid photographer, loves to write, and believes balance and harmony are essential to achieving life goals.
Endowed Professor in the Graduate School of Education at the University of Pennsylvania. She is the author or editor of 35 books, including Educating a Diverse Nation (Harvard University Press, 2015 with Clif Conrad), Envisioning Black Colleges (Johns Hopkins University Press, 2007), Making Black Scientists (Harvard University Press, 2019 with Thai-Huy Nguyen), Doing the Right Thing: How to End Systemic Racism in Faculty Hiring (Princeton University, 2022),
HBCU: The Power of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (Johns Hopkins University Press, 2024), and her newest book Why Historically Black Colleges Matter: 25 Years of Research for Justice (Teachers College Press, 2025). Marybeth has written over 300 peer- reviewed articles, scholarly essays, and book chapters. She has penned over 650 opinion articles for the nation’s newspapers and magazines and is ranked by Education Week as one of the 20 most influential education scholars in the nation.
Marybeth has raised over $24 million in grant funding to support her research and that of her students, mentees, and MSI partners. She has served on the board of trustees of The College Board as well as historically Black colleges – Paul Quinn College, Morris Brown College, and St. Augustine College. She considers her proudest accomplishment to be receiving the University of Pennsylvania’s Provost Award for Distinguished Ph.D. Teaching and Mentoring, serving as the dissertation chair for over 85 doctoral students since 2000. Marybeth is an avid photographer, loves to write, and believes balance and harmony are essential to achieving life goals.
Rev. Dr. Renita Marie Green is a dynamic spiritual leader, scholar, and justice advocate whose work spans ministry, academia, publishing, and community engagement. She holds a Doctor of Ministry in Religious, Political, and Social Ethics and a Master of Divinity from Payne Theological Seminary, along with a B.A. in Organization Studies from Saint Louis University (Magna Cum Laude). In 2022, she was named an inaugural John Robert Lewis Fellow by the Faith and Politics Institute.
For over two decades, Dr. Green has served as a pastor in the African Methodist Episcopal Church, currently leading Holy Trinity AME Church (Wilberforce, OH) and Bethel AME Church (Lewistown, PA). She is known for strategic, community-centered leadership and visionary ministry.
An esteemed educator and writer, she has taught on worship, church history, resistance theology, and civil rights. Her books include Holy Moly!, The Lord’s Prayer: A Radical Manifesto for Liberation and Justice, What’s Next? Navigating the Crossroads of Decline, and The Twelve Days of Resistance. Her work appears in The Christian Recorder, HuffPost, CNN Editorial, and more. In 2014, she was named one of HuffPost’s People of the Year. Her justice work has earned multiple awards, including the MLK Jr. Award, Human Rights Award, and Spirit of Jarena Lee Award.
Her greatest joy is her family—children Chrissi, Darren, and Tye; grandchildren Sōl Rē and Ayla Marie; and pets Cat and Priscilla Ann. Whether preaching, teaching, or organizing, she lives to embody faith in action and inspire others to “choose life” every single day (Deuteronomy 30:19).
Nike Greene is the Founder and Exec. Director of Triple Threat Mentoring PDX. She is the author of “NIKE, More than a Name it’s my Life: From Trauma to Triumph,” a memoir. She is a Keynote Speaker, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, International Speaker and Coach.
Nike’s’ powerful story of transforming her own life from trauma to triumph, from abuse to healing into now leading her own non-profit Triple threat Mentoring PDX is the inspiration behind her relentless mission to teach others that it is possible to change their future. Today, audiences worldwide revere Nike for her mastery of teaching people how to tap into their potential. trust the process and reach their audacious goals.
Nike’s endeavors remain connected to her passion around collaborative communities, education, engaged families and celebrating diversity. As a therapist, she believes that healing and unity can build stronger communities. She is known for her vibrant personality, and 15+ years experiences within Violence Prevention, Government, schools and correctional systems, community leadership and her stand for social justice.
Nike Greene is widely regarded as the go to expert in Coaching, Mental Health and violence reduction strategies. She uses high energy combined with realistic strategies to draw attention and focus from her audiences. Audiences love her approaches because they are both practical and obtainable. Nike has shown that she has high values for service, dedication and above all excellence. “Excellence is a flower waiting to spring forth in our lives”.
Nike works with government agencies, companies and community-based organizations to create strategies that will work best for their respective community to both strengthen and elevate their teams, with the primary focus being “what is it going to take to move us from vision to reality”
Using the premise of “we are each the change that we have been waiting for” Nike guides organizations and communities through some practical, repeatable and sustainable frameworks that show the role they can play in transforming our tomorrow.
No room is left unmoved, and no heart is left untouched… Nike… It’s more than her name, it’s her life…
“Nike, More than a name it’s my life. I walk in and toward victory every day.” http://www.nikegreene.com
Nike Greene MA, LMFT
Tara Gray is an Ahtna Athabascan first-generation Indigenous college graduate with academic foundations in psychology and sustainability. She has become a recognized political advocate, serving on multiple boards and advancing initiatives that elevate Indigenous voices in both the community and national levels.
Her advocacy has extended beyond organizational walls into the political arena, where she has helped amplify priorities in support of critical legislation. With a strong belief that change begins both at the grassroots and in the halls of government, Tara continues to be a bridge between communities and policymakers.
Her leadership has woven together community empowerment, tradition, and advocacy, creating a powerful blend. She has organized and supported initiatives that cultivate youth leadership, defend human rights, and drive forward legislative solutions rooted in equity.
Lynnette Grey Bull, also known by her traditional name Híŋháŋni Mní – Morning Water, is Húŋkpapȟa Lakota – Yanktonai Dakȟóta -Northern Arapaho stemming from the Standing Rock & Wind River Tribes. Grey Bull is a committed advocate and prominent leader in Indian Country, drawing
upon more than ten years of experience in public speaking and addressing Native American issues. Her advocacy is deeply influenced by her personal journey as a survivor of violence.
As the Founder/Director of Not Our Native Daughters (NOND), she focuses on raising awareness about Indigenous matters, particularly addressing Human Trafficking and the Missing, Murdered Indigenous
Women & Girls crisis. Lynnette’s advocacy extends to roles on the Wyoming Governor’s Task Force for Missing, Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP), and Colorado’s Missing, Murdered and Indigenous Relatives Taskforce, where she played a pivotal role in its creation.
In addition to her work with NOND, Lynnette has held significant positions within tribal communities, including spearheading programs like the Emergency Rental Assistance Program & ERA2 (Mortgage Relief Program) for the Northern Arapaho Tribe and the Department of Interior Land Buy-Back Program for Tribal Nations. She also leads Indigenous Youth
Voices for Conservation, providing outdoor educational excursions to national parks and outdoor environments, aiming to create pathways to employment in these fields for Native youth.
Recently selected for the EJ/CJ Disrupt Design Fellowship, Lynnette’s commitment to advocacy and community leadership is evident in her extensive list of achievements, including testimony to Congress on The Tribal Heritage and Grizzly Bear Protection Act and Tribal Youth Suicide Prevention and recognition for her trauma-centered advocacy efforts. With a strong foundation in education and professional development, Lynnette brings a wealth of expertise to her advocacy work, striving to create a future where Native Americans thrive in all areas of society.
307-438-0214
www.notournativedaughters.org
Ange-Marie Hancock is Executive Director of the Kirwan Institute for the Study of Race and Ethnicity at The Ohio State University, where she also serves as ENGIE-Axium Endowed Professor of Political Science. Dr. Hancock joined Kirwan in January 2023 after 15 years at the University of Southern California and previous positions at Yale University, Penn State, and the University of San Francisco.
A globally recognized scholar of intersectionality theory, she has written numerous articles and three books on the intersections of categories of difference like race, gender, class, sexuality, and citizenship and their impact on policy: the award-winning The Politics of Disgust and the Public Identity of the “Welfare Queen,” (2004), Solidarity Politics for Millennials: A Guide to Ending the Oppression Olympics (2011) and Intersectionality: An Intellectual History (2016). She is hard at work on her fourth book, The Scope and Vision of African American Political Thought, a book that covers more than 250 years of African American political thought.
In 1993, under the mentorship of NBA Hall of Famer Tom “Satch” Sanders, Hancock conducted the original survey research and designed the business model for the Women’s National Basketball Association. The only women’s professional basketball league to succeed in the United States, the WNBA has been in existence for over 25 years.
More recent applied forms of her research focus on racial and gender equity at the local and regional levels, including leading a racial equity baseline study for the City of Los Angeles and co-chairing an academic analysis of governance reform in Los Angeles. She has also led community-engaged, empirically rigorous data analyses for the Black Experience Action Team (BEAT) and the USC Department of Public Safety Community Advisory Board. Her current work includes new research projects on asylum requests by survivors of domestic violence, empirical applications of intersectionality, and The Kamala Harris Project, a nonpartisan collective of scholars dedicated to tracking all aspects of the first woman of color vice president in U.S. history.
Born in Columbus, Hancock is an alumna of Thomas Worthington High School. Long committed to community work, she has served on the boards of Community Partners, the Los Angeles African American Women’s Public Policy Institute (LAAAWPPI), LA Voice, the Liberty Hill Foundation, and the ACLU of Southern California. She received a bachelor’s degree from New York University, and her MA and PhD from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Dr. Tammy Hodo is the founder and President of All Things Diverse LLC, which provides consulting
services to businesses, academic institutions, non-profit organizations, and government entities
who value diversity and want to develop a high performing inclusive workforce. All Things
Diverse, LLC is dedicated to helping organizations realize the full potential that can only be
achieved through deliberate action. The company is committed to helping its clients create a
workplace culture of belonging where everyone can thrive. Some of the services her company
offer include diversity, equity, and inclusion training and workshops, assessments and surveys,
strategic diversity planning and diversity audits.
Tammy earned her Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in Urban Studies, with a
minor in Sociology in which she specializations in Race, Class, Gender, and Ethnicity. She
obtained her Master of Public Administration (MPA) from Columbus State University, and
bachelor’s from Albany State University. She worked in academia for over 18 years in a variety
of positions, including faculty and university administrator. Tammy continues to be active in
academia as she writes academic articles relevant to the experiences of minorities in America.
Her most recent publications (2021) are two chapters In African American Families: Research,
Theory, and Practice, which was published by Cognella Academic Publishing. She wrote about
“The Urban Experiences of African American Families” and “Theoretical and Methodological
Issues of Studying the African American Family. Currently she is writing a book with a
colleague entitled: Having the Hard Conversations on Race, Ethnicity, Politics, and Social
Justice in Workplace and Educational Settings, which is due to be published this year (2022) by
Routledge.
Her company has had contracts with the City of Jacksonville addressing policing and trust with
minority communities (Safer Together). The City of Tampa training employees on Diversity and
Implicit Bias as well as the federal government division of Veterans Administration in which we
teach employees about Cultural Competency, Microaggressions and Communication Styles,
Dr. Hodo has written course content for an educational vendor on Implicit Bias and
Microaggressions https://www.vectorsolutions.com/resources/blogs/implicit-biasmicroaggressions-higher-education/ She recently wrote course content for Discrimination
Awareness in the workplace https://www.vectorsolutions.com/course-details-edu/discriminationawareness-in-the-workplace/ss-staff/course-discrimination_awareness/. As a TEDx speaker, she
discussed the Social Implications of Race https://youtu.be/a4jPGhN5TCM.
She is also a service-connected disabled veteran of the U.S. Navy.
Dr. Horne is an experienced senior advisor in DEIA, EEO, Human Capital, Training and Organizational Development who scales and aligns complex global programs and business initiatives for federal and private organizations. She has a 17+ year history of contributions to the government, military and private industries in operations, diversity and inclusion, human capital and adult learning. Dr. Horne has researched and developed comprehensive leadership development, culture action planning and career development programs impacting national security missions on a global scale. From creating groundbreaking culture change in Japan to leading organization-wide change at the Pentagon and Quantico, she has earned multiple awards using creative problem solving to quell large scale issues. She is an award-winning novelist, industry columnist and government leader that has spoken at multiple federal agencies, private organizations and conferences on the intersection of culture, leadership and
strategic alignment. She is a proud Army veteran and enjoys reading, traveling and coaching youth sports.
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/theresa-r-horne
Portfolio: www.drtheresahorne.com
Rev. Tobias K. Houpe is a licensed and ordained minister and a native of Columbus, OH. He is the current VP of the International Fellowship of Faith Ministries (IFFM), and recently appointed as the Director of Operations for Tel International based out of Dallas, TX. He received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from, The Ohio State University in 1983 and studied extensively in the department of Black Studies holding memberships in several Black Student organizations and represented the College of Fine Arts on the Student Government during his senior year. In 2003, Rev. Houpe was requested by then Ohio Senator Ray Miller to work as his Legislative Assistant, where he served at the State House.
Upon graduating from OSU, Rev. Houpe joined the staff of Campus Crusade for Christ (currently Cru) and functioned as Campus Director for Clark Atlanta University at the Atlanta University Center (AUC), and expanded his ministry to include Tuskegee University. After leaving the ministry of CCC, Rev. Houpe started his own 501c3 international ministry, called the African American Christian Connection (AACC) and began a ministry to incarcerated youths and mentoring gang members.
In 1989, as a staff member of CCC, Rev. Houpe made his first international missions trip to South Africa while the nation was under Apartheid and in a state of emergency. He relocated to Cape Town, South Africa in 1994 during the nation’s first all-race election. Upon his return to the United States and in the latter part of 1994, Rev. Houpe became an investigative journalist and columnist for the Call & Post and Columbus Post newspapers and has been the guest on several radio broadcasts, and a local TV talk show.
As a missionary, Rev. Houpe has had an extensive national and international travel schedule including Turkey, India, Italy, England, Dominican Republic, and several nations throughout the continent of Africa. He also partnered with a Christian Native American missions team in 1995 and took part in 14 summer mission projects in Arizona and New Mexico on Navajo Reservations.
In 2007, Rev. Houpe took on a life partner and married Kingston, Jamaican native, Althea Bernardette Leslie. He is currently working on writing 3 books: an auto-biography focusing on his experiences as an African American Missionary; a book and lecture series on the topic of racism, entitled “Hoodwinked,” addressing the origins of American racism/white supremacy and its’ current day ripple effects; and racism/white supremacy in the hijacking of Christianity and its’ role in colonization, American slavery, Jim Crow, the Civil Rights movement, and beyond.
Jess Ingrassellino is a creative problem-solver and leader at the intersection of technology, education, and the arts. With four advanced degrees, including a Doctorate in Music & Educational Assessment, and currently pursuing her fifth in Software Engineering, she brings a unique blend of academic rigor and real-world experience to every project. Jess helps individuals and organizations unlock
their potential through innovative strategies, authentic leadership, and inclusive growth. Her work is rooted in equity, creativity,
compassion, and a commitment to fostering environments where people thrive. You can learn more about Jess on her website, https://www.jessingrassellino.com.
Born in Chicago in 1950 Regina remembers an America where everything was in Black and white. Burned into her memory are; the beatings and horrific treatment of civil rights workers throughout the south, the Goodman, Chaney & Schwerner murders, the murder of Viola Liuzzo, the murder of Martin Luther King, Jr. and the murders of President John Kennedy and his brother Robert. The violence perpetrated on innocent people going about their lives, by white people. It is these memories that drive Regina to push for real change in America. Which is why she co-founded Race 2 Dinner.
Arthur L. Jones, III is an Episcopal Priest whose canonical residence is within a Diocese in the Northeastern region of the United States. Before joining the Episcopal Church, he was licensed and ordained as a Pastor in the Missionary Baptist Church. Arthur is a 1989 graduate of a HBCU (Morris Brown College in Atlanta, Georgia) with a BA in English Literature and Language. He is a 2018 graduate of a PWI (the Sewanee School of Theology at the University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee) with a M.Div. Arthur also did graduate studies at both Georgia State University in Atlanta, Georgia and at Valdosta State University in Valdosta, Georgia.
Arthur is a native of Thomasville, Georgia – a small, affluent town of 30,000 residents located in extreme Southwestern Georgia. Although afforded a comfortable upbringing alongside his two siblings by two loving, hardworking parents, Arthur experienced racism and treated as “other” during his childhood as the direct result of being one of the few students of color in a class only two years removed from school integration within his hometown during the early 1970s.
Arthur took to heart his parents’ fervent beliefs that he could be anything he wanted to be in this life if he worked hard, made good choices, received the best education possible, and stayed out of trouble. And despite success in radio, print journalism, IT, education, and the non-profit sector, the subtle and blatant racism he has consistently encountered has challenged his optimistic personality and positive outlook.
He is happily married to an Episcopal Priest (Jennifer) – and together they are raising a 16-month-old son in upstate New York.
Arthur retains great interest in staying abreast of trends and issues related to diversity, equity, and inclusion globally in general; and nationally in particular. As an Op-Ed newspaper columnist, Arthur has written extensively about race/ethnicity as related to sports, current events, politics, music, religion, and the arts.
He serves (and has served) as a member of several executive boards. He has been a proud and active member of numerous community service based organizations: including the 100 Black Men of America, Inc.; the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.; and the NAACP to name a few. Arthur is well-versed in both American history and African American history. He is passionate about justice in all its forms: economic, social, political, environmental, educational, etc.
Arthur’s areas of interest include sports, writing, journaling, mentoring your people, communing with nature, politics, cooking/baking, travel, movies, skydiving, and spending time with his family members and friends. He plans to launch his own podcast in the near future.
William Jones is the founder of Afrofuturism Network, a historian, educator and self-described “comic book geek.” William Jones is the author of, “The Ex-Con, Voodoo Priest, Goddess, and the African King”, which is an analysis of black comic book heroes. He frequently speaks about the history of black people in America, the image of black people in various forms of media, pop culture on various college campuses and at conferences both nationally and abroad. Afrofuturism Network seeks to support the ever-growing community of black writers, artists, and thinkers in the realms of sci-fi, fantasy, comic books and film. AFN analyzes the contributions and portrayal of black characters in these mediums. AFN examines the role and place of black people in the past, present and future and serves as a hub for black creativity and thought. William is also the creator and host of, “Into the Afroverse” which highlights Afrofuturist creators and intellectuals. William is also the creator and host of the “An Evening with Afrofuturists” events held across the DMV area.
Sara June Jo-Sæbo writes about how power, politics, and media operate in rural places. Her focus is family-farm survival, farm labor, substance use and incarceration, and racism. She also writes about ways rural people use art, music, and dance as inspiration and as a response to oppression and disenfranchisement. Jo-Sæbo is a dedicated history researcher and publishes her work, including her book, “I Have Walked One Mile After Dark in a Hard Rain”, on her website Midwest History Project. Jo-Sæbo resides in Southwest Virginia.
Ivory L. Kennedy Jr. is a dedicated educator, practicing historian, and advocate for comprehensive American history education. With a family history deeply rooted in foundation of America and the struggles of African Americans, he brings a passionate and unique American perspective to his teaching and training endeavors.
Born in Dayton, Ohio, Ivory’s lineage embodies American resilience and perseverance. From his 3x great-grandfather who served in the Union Army during the Civil War to his grandmother’s lived experiences being born on a plantation in Lowndes County, Alabama; Ivory knows he’s made of history and carries a deep appreciation for education’s role in overcoming systemic barriers.
Ivory began his career as a middle school American history teacher, sparking curiosity and critical thinking in 8th-grade students. His focus on providing a comprehensive understanding of American history, including marginalized voices, set him apart as a transformative educator. It was the responsibility of teaching 8th graders about America’s founding that revealed the criticality of American history to be taught as best as it can be.
At The Ohio State University, Ivory transitioned to teaching & training pre-service educators, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and empathy needed to create inclusive and equitable learning environments. His academic journey, from Sinclair Community College to earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees from The Ohio State University, has given him a robust understanding of pedagogy and historical literacy.
As the Program Manager of Middle Childhood Education and Interim Program Manager of Integrated Social Studies, Ivory continues to inspire and empower educators and students, connecting history with current events. His unwavering dedication to teaching the truth of marginalized narratives and shaping a just and equitable future reflects his commitment to contributing to a more perfect union.
Dr. Danielle Casarez Lemi, PhD is the founder and principal of Kapwa Sol Insights, a justice-rooted evaluation and strategy firm based in Texas that helps mission-driven teams change lives for the better. Her career spans higher education, the nonprofit sector, and civic engagement spaces. Her teaching, academic, and applied research interests include race, ethnicity, gender, and voter behavior in American politics. She is the co-author (with Nadia E. Brown) of Sister Style: The Politics of Appearance for Black Women Political Elites and author of Doing Identity Labor: How Mixed-Race Politicians Disrupt Descriptive Representation, both published by Oxford University Press.
Elaine Lin Hering is a speaker, facilitator, and former Lecturer on Law at Harvard Law School. She works with organizations and individuals to build skills in communication, collaboration, and conflict management. She has worked on six continents and facilitated executive education at Harvard, Dartmouth, Tufts, UC Berkeley, and UCLA. She has served as the Advanced Training Director for the Harvard Mediation Program and a Managing Partner for a global leadership development firm. She has worked with coal miners at BHP Billiton, micro-finance organizers-
-in East Africa, mental health professionals in China, and senior leadership at the US Department of Commerce. Her clients include American Express, Chevron, Google, Nike, Novartis, PayPal, Pixar, and the Red Cross. She was named a Thinkers50 global management thinker to watch and is the author of the USA Today Bestselling book Unlearning Silence: How to Speak Your Mind, Unleash Talent, and Live More Fully (Penguin).
Dr. Lisa Martin (She/Her) is a licensed clinical psychologist, consultant, speaker, and coach. Her approach integrates trauma informed principles with anti-racist values to generate deep internal, relational, and institutional change. Dr. Lisa’s work centers on building community, fostering healing, cultivating joy, and solidifying the voice and impact of Black, Indigenous, People of Color, and white allies.
Dr. Lisa has partnered with school systems, hospitals, non-profit organizations, universities, counseling practices, and corporations across the country. She uses storytelling, mindfulness, and media to deliver emotionally resonant and inspiring training sessions. In addition to maintaining a private practice in New York and Florida, Dr. Lisa serves as a rostered psychologist for the National Basketball Players Association and is a certified Sawubona Circle Leader. She has been featured in several local and national publications, podcasts, and news broadcasts sharing her expertise on racial equity, trauma, and mental health.
Carliss Maddox is a visionary author, poet, educator, playwright, and entrepreneur whose work uplifts, affirms, and transforms. Originally from Georgia and now rooted in Maryland, Carliss has spent decades shaping hearts and minds through truth-filled storytelling, principled service, and servant leadership.
She is the author of three children’s books and the poetry collection R.A.U.W. (Real and Unadulterated Words of Poetry), each offering spiritually resonant reflections that center identity, healing, and hope. As founder of Carli and Company, Carliss curates empowering literature and apparel for children and adults, anchoring every product in affirmation, authenticity, and purpose.
Carliss earned a Bachelor of Science in Public Administration (cum laude) and a Master of Arts in Education, with a focus on Early Childhood Education. She received advanced leadership training in Educational Administration and Supervision from Morgan State University and is currently pursuing her doctorate in Educational Leadership at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. Her professional journey is distinguished by her commitment to excellence. She has been recognized as an Outstanding Educator in Gifted and Talented Education and has received a Trailblazer Award. She is also a member of the Golden Key International Honour Society. Additionally, she has been nominated twice for Teacher of the Year and has earned numerous other awards that highlight her lasting impact on educational equity and her dedication to the community.
Carliss actively volunteers with several Maryland-based organizations and also serves with the National Urban League and the National Council of Urban League Guilds, where she was honored with the 2024 Whitney M. Young, Jr. Excellence in Leadership Award for the Eastern Region. She also contributes to strategic community planning with professional organizations, consistently centering educational equity, early literacy for young children, and the urgent needs of historically underserved communities.
Whether through her writings, mentorship, or civic engagement, Carliss continues to inspire generations with her unwavering commitment to truth, restoration, and principled service. She exemplifies leadership founded on spiritual resilience, historical clarity, and the conviction that ordinary citizens can initiate the change they wish to see.
“Change begins with a simple act—ACTION! Whether it’s showing up, speaking truth, or lending a hand, every step matters. You have the power to be the change you want to see. Change begins with you.”
— Carliss Maddox
Liz Matney is a writer, philanthropist, daughter, sister, wife, and mother of two teenagers. With over two decades of experience working with international humanitarian organizations and advocating for marginalized communities, her work focuses on issues of religious freedom and human rights, particularly in India, where her family has faced threats and systemic harassment. Through her writing, she explores the intersection of identity, belonging, and justice in politically charged environments. She holds a PhD in global leadership and women’s studies and has worked extensively in business, non-profit, and educational contexts. After spending a season in India, she and her family are in the process of rediscovering their lives back in the United States. Her diverse background and first-hand experiences uniquely equip her to address complex global issues in a deeply personal way. Home in Exile is her debut work, offering a compelling narrative that examines the personal impact of political and social turmoil while engaging with broader conversations on displacement, resilience, and the search for home.
Carl McRoy is an ordained minister, a frequent feature writer for Message magazine, author of Yell at God and Live, R U TUFF ENUFF?, and Impediments to Power: What’s Blocking Your Blessings?, and founder of the “Your Liberation Library” video/podcast series.
Dr. Jonathan McRoy is the Vice President of Administration at Goodwill Industries of Kansas and a retired Senior Noncommissioned Officer from the United States Air Force. He brings over two decades of leadership experience spanning military operations, nonprofit management, and organizational transformation. Dr. McRoy has completed doctoral studies in business administration and leadership, and his career reflects a deep commitment to people operations, operational excellence, inclusive leadership, and strategic development. As a leadership consultant, educator, and published author, he writes on organizational culture, adaptive leadership, and systems change across sectors.
A Best of the Net and eight-time Pushcart Prize nominee, Julie L. Moore is the author of four poetry collections, including, most recently, Full Worm Moon, which won a 2018 Woodrow Hall Top Shelf Award and received honorable mention for the Conference on Christianity and Literature’s 2018 Book of the Year Award. Her creative nonfiction has won the Donald Murray Prize from Writing on the Edge and placed as a finalist in the Midwest Review’s Best of the Midwest contest. Moore’s poetry has won the Janet B. McCabe Poetry Prize from Ruminate Magazine, the Editor’s Choice Award from Writecorner Press, and the Rosine Offen Memorial Award from the Free Lunch Arts Alliance. Her poems have appeared in African American Review, Christian Century, Image, New Ohio Review, Poetry Daily, Prairie Schooner, The Southern Review, Verse Daily, and many anthologies. You can learn more about her work at julielmoore.com.
I am Dr. Michelle Ned. I am a professional with 19 years of experience in Integrated Behavioral Health and Primary Care Management, Education, Public Policy, Political Analysis, Large-Scale Resource Coordination, Conference Planning, Government, and Hospitality Volunteer Services. I have excellent marketing and organizational skills to ensure high standards of customer satisfaction within travel consultation. I am also a licensed barber-stylist with over 21 years of experience in the highly competitive hair care industry and market share.
Other Experiences: I completed content strategy and social media advertising with Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services on the paramount concerns of Vocational Rehabilitation Services on employment return. Furthermore, I have developed numerous partnerships with organizations and publications that provide an array of integrated behavioral health and government policy concerns. My most recent publications, podcasts, and presentations are from Arizona State University Maternal Health and Transition Team, NOLA Black Mental Health Matters, Black Women Ph.Ds., iHealth News Magazine, Louisiana Primary Care Association, Milady, Vision & Purpose LifeStyle Magazine and Media™, Louisiana Rehabilitation Services, Paces Connection, Medium, Session Lab, ForbesBlk, and my personal content writing space, Visions Consulting Firm. Lastly, my final professional contribution was commentary on positive work experiences with professional author, Regina Joy.
I am also a Board Member with the State of Louisiana Rehabilitation Services, in which I Assists persons with disabilities in their desire to obtain, maintain or advance in competitive employment and achieve independence in their communities by providing rehabilitation services and working cooperatively with businesses and other community resources.
Dr. Michelle Ned, Doctor of Behavioral Health
Keith Reynolds: Keith was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. He and his wife, along with their Six children, currently reside in Holland, MI. Keith graduated from Elim Bible Institute with a major in Biblical Studies. He received his Masters of Theological Studies from Southwestern Christian Seminary. He received his MBA from Indiana Wesleyan and is currently working towards his Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership from National Louis University. Keith has served as a Pastor, Consultant, Lecturer, Guest Speaker, Life-Coach, and Program Director throughout his professional career. Keith aspires to be a trusted neighbor to his community members and a credible voice on topics/conversations related to racial justice, culture, and spiritual formation. His chief ambition is to be a loving husband, father, and devout follower of Jesus.
Fawn N. Rhodes is a native of Wilmington, North Carolina, and a current resident of Raleigh,
North Carolina. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Behavioral and Social Sciences from North
Carolina Central University (Eagle Pride!) and a Master of Public Health from the University of
North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Gillings School of Global Public Health, with a concentration in
Leadership in Practice.
Ms. Rhodes is a Community Health Engagement Strategist and Health Equity Advocate
dedicated to building equitable, community-driven solutions. She specializes in designing and
advancing initiatives that bridge public health systems with community voices, ensuring that
care, communication, and policy reflect cultural humility and justice.
She is currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Global Health Equity at Meharry
Medical College School of Global Health, where her dissertation, “When Stories Heal: The
Public Health Griot Approach as a Health Equity and Justice Framework for Addressing
Historical Trauma Among Black Diaspora Elders,” explores storytelling as a culturally rooted
framework for healing trauma among African diasporic female elders.
Fawn sees herself as a conduit through which information flows, facilitating strategic and
transformational change that reduces and ultimately eliminates health inequities and disparities.
She often reminds others that “equity is a verb—accompanied by action.”
Her favorite poem is “It Couldn’t Be Done” by Edgar Guest, and she is inspired by the words of
Pauli Murray, North Carolina native, legal scholar, and civil rights pioneer, who said:
“When my brothers try to draw a circle to exclude me, I shall draw a larger circle to include
them.”
— Pauli Murray, 1940; later cited in Proud Shoes: The Story of an American Family (1956)
This quote reflects Fawn’s belief that inclusion, compassion, and courage are the foundation of
both community and healing.
Frank Robinson is a retired pastor from California who has a diverse and unique background in both rural and urban ministry. Frank’s life from a young age has been one of crossing barriers, of learning and dealing with diversity, race and many related issues. In 1984 Alabama, not long after a local lynching, he married his wife Sandra. Theirs is an interracial marriage, which was a scandal at the time. Their first child was born across the state line so no one would kill him. In 1992 Los Angeles, Frank was at his desk on Crenshaw when, following the Rodney King beating verdicts, the city went up in flames. He went into the riot area each day, then helped organize and work community clean up. He is a fine artist and a writer, the author of Letters To a Mixed Race Son, which began with the idea that if someone killed Frank, he could speak wisdom, love, purpose and direction to his son. Frank and his wife Sandra now live in Texas. They have four lovely, intelligent, grown children. Their home is a blessed home.
Meet Micheli Robles, a seasoned project management professional and education expert with over a decade of experience. Armed with a Bachelor’s degree in Language and Literature and an MBA in Project Management, Micheli brings a unique blend of skills to the table. Her journey encompasses successful project orchestration and team leadership. Beyond the corporate arena, Micheli is a passionate advocate for education’s transformative potential. Stay tuned for her upcoming articles in Three-Fifths Magazine, where she’ll share insights at the intersection of project management and education. Connect with Micheli on LinkedIn and learn more about her journey on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/-micheli-machado/
Sarah L. Sanderson is a writer and speaker who lives in the Pacific Northwest. Her first book, The Place We Make: Breaking the Legacy of Legalized Hate, released from WaterBrook Press In 2023. Sarah holds a Master in Teaching degree from Seattle University and a Master of Fine Arts in creative nonfiction from Seattle Pacific University. Links to her other published work may be found at www.sarahlsanderson.com.
Dr. La’Shardae Scott is a TEDx Speaker and a dynamic and accomplished servant leader in the field of Social Work with a rich background in various roles that span clinical, educational, and advocacy spheres. Armed with a Doctor of Social Work degree in Administration and Leadership from the University of Kentucky, Dr. Scott is a passionate advocate for health equity and social justice.
With a diverse educational journey that includes a Master of Social Work in Mental Health and Substance Use Recovery from Eastern Michigan University and specialized training in Women’s Entrepreneurship from Cornell University, Dr. Scott embodies a commitment to holistic care and community empowerment.
Dr. Scott’s career path reflects her dedication to serving vulnerable populations. As the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Scott Center for Observation Treatment and Transition in Toledo, Ohio, she spearheads initiatives to address health disparities and enhance pediatric clinical services. Her leadership extends to various boards and councils, where she actively contributes to policy formulation and program development.
Dr. Scott has expertise in providing comprehensive care and support to individuals and families affected by sickle cell disease. Through her work, she has pioneered education programs, secured grants, and collaborated with esteemed institutions like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In addition to this, Dr. Scott played a pivotal role in collaborating with the CDC to develop the groundbreaking manual, “Oral Health Management in Sickle Cell Patients.” She serves as the Region III Newborn Screening Coordinator and Sickle Cell Director under the Scott Center for Observation Treatment and Transition.
Dr. Scott is also committed to education outside of her sickle cell research, evident through her role as a part-time professor in the College of Social Work at the University of Kentucky, Eastern Michigan University, and Delaware State University, where she discusses poverty, inequality, and social justice. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of cultivating awareness and promoting justice across all levels of social work practice.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Dr. Scott is an active member of numerous professional associations, including the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Her accolades, including being named Sickle Cell Disease Association of America (SCDAA) 1st CHW P.O.W.E.R Award Winner, NASW Ohio’s Social Worker of the Year, and receiving the Shero of Health Award from the Ohio Commission on Minority Health, Rising Star in Social Work from the University of Kentucky, and the Young Outstanding Alumni from Eastern Michigan University, attest to her impact and leadership in the field. Morgan State University named her “Advocacy in Action” for social work month
As a devoted advocate for individuals with sickle cell disease, Dr. Scott’s passion is deeply personal, as she is the mother of two warrior children who are thriving and surviving with sickle cell disease. Dr. Scott’s dedication to advocacy is further reflected in her extensive publications and presentations, where she addresses critical issues such as the stigma surrounding sickle cell disease and the challenges of transition care for patients. She presented a TEDx talk titled “Redefining Advocacy and Care for Sickle Cell Disease.”
Through her multifaceted approach to service and advocacy, Dr. La’Shardae Scott continues to be a visionary leader, educator, advocate, wife, and parent, whose unwavering commitment to social justice and community well-being continues to inspire positive change in the field of Social Work.
Hilary’s passion for teaching was evident from an early age. As a child, she would take discarded worksheets from the classroom trash can to bring them home and assign them to her stuffed animals. Knowing that education was her calling, she immersed herself in the world of learning, taking on roles as a special education teacher, 6th grade Science teacher, and principal. As a principal, Hilary developed a nationally recognized before-and-after-school program that enriched the school day, providing 650 students with hands-on, experiential learning opportunities. Her efforts in building a culturally responsive school earned her recognition from the National School Board Association.
A lifelong learner, Hilary completed her Doctorate in Educational Studies at The Ohio State University, researching equity implementation in PK-12 schools. She now works with educators and leaders to examine how systems impact student success, coaching principals and guiding schools in creating equitable, inclusive learning environments.Hilary’s passion lies in building connections and fostering spaces where individuals can be authentic. She serves on the board of Be the Bridge and the Bold Girls Collective/ Brown Girl Mentoring, organizations committed to racial healing and empowering girls. Committed to moving beyond echo chambers and continuous learning, Hilary believes the most important thing we can do is truly listen to—and care for—the person in front of us. Everyone has a story, perspective, or life experience to share, and how we respond to their insight can make all the difference.
Stacey Raina Speller, Ph.D. is a proud Afro-Nuyorican scholar, practitioner, and bridge-builder committed to disrupting racial erasure and advancing equity across Black and Brown communities. Her work centers on the intersection of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and AfroLatinidad/Latinidad, a mission she lives out as the founder of HBCUorgullo, a nonprofit dedicated to bridging the gap between HBCUs and Latinidad.
Dr. Speller is a recent graduate of Howard University, where she earned her Ph.D. in Higher Education Leadership and Policy Studies. She is a proud two-time alumna of Bethune-Cookman University and currently serves as a National Leadership Council (NLC) Fellow and chair of the Graduate Student Fellows Program (GSFP) of the American Association of Hispanics in Higher Education (AAHHE). She is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, the Association for the Study of Higher Education (ASHE), and the American Educational Research Association (AERA). Through her research, advocacy, and community-rooted praxis, she remains steadfast in her calling to uplift diasporic truths, challenge systemic injustice, and walk boldly in the spirit of collective liberation.
Madeleine Spencer is the Co-Director of Placemaking US and holds dual Master’s degrees in Counseling Psychology and ABD PH.D in Depth Psychology, specializing in Community, Liberation, Indigenous, and Eco-Psychology. Her academic expertise aligns with a passion for hands-on community initiatives.
Spencer has spearheaded business improvement districts, developed economic pipelines, created vision maps for community, and designed network wide communication strategies. She serves on the boards of Community Engagement, an arts nonprofit, and Sowing Seeds of Change, a workforce development organization teaching urban agriculture to neurodivergent and foster youth.
Spencer is driven by her dedication to community, culture, and sustainability.
Rev Dr Susan K Smith, the founder of Crazy Faith Ministries in Columbus, Ohio, was
formerly the senior pastor of Advent United Church of Christ, where she served for 22 years. She
graduated from Occidental College in 1976, where she earned her BA in English literature, and
is a 1986 graduate of Yale Divinity School, where she earned her M.Div. She earned her D. Min.
from United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio, studying under the late Rev. Drs. Samuel
Proctor and Charles E. Booth.
She now serves as the director of the Office of Clergy and Leadership Resource
Development for the Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference, Inc.) and is an adjunct professor at
Memphis Theological Seminary.
She is the author of several books, including Crazy Faith: Ordinary People,
Extraordinary Lives, The Book of Jeremiah: The Life and Work of Jeremiah A. Wright Jr., Rest
for the Justice Seeking Soul, and With Liberty and Justice for Some: The Bible, the Constitution,
and Racism in America.
She resides in Columbus, Ohio.,
Nisah Tahara, MS, is an entrepreneur and owner of Outbound/IN, a woman-owned business, providing Business Development as a Service, (BDaaS) to multiple industries and organizations. As a seasoned professional who has devoted herself to designing an approach to professional services delivery that recognizes the value of untapped intellectual capital that doesn’t fit the traditional Monday through Friday / 9 to 5 work week model. Many of her employees are stay at home parents, caregivers with flexibility, or semi-retired individuals with a wealth of experience and want to stay engaged with working between vacations.
She is a master training instructor and behavioral scientist specializing in psychological safety programs who has worked with entities including Clarivate, DTE Energy, Chevrolet, Honda and Mercedes Benz.
April Griffith Taylor, a native of Cincinnati, Ohio, is a Human Resources Leader over thirty years of experience encompassing Talent Acquisition, Talent Management, and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion.
April has earned dual bachelor’s degrees in Mass Communications and Journalism from Indiana State University and an MBA from Ashland University. She also holds a Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification and a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification in Human Resources.
April has held board memberships with the National Black MBA Association and NewsReel Magazine for the Blind. As a recipient of “Who’s Who in Black Columbus” April has used her corporate platform to raise Diversity, Equity and Inclusion awareness in corporate America.
April is a founding member of the Women’s Leadership Council (United Way of Central Ohio) and frequently volunteers in her community and church.
Gena Ruocco Thomas holds a Bachelor of Arts in writing from High Point University and a Master of Arts in international development from Eastern University. She and her husband, Andrew, served as missionaries in northern Mexico for over four years and have served in various leadership and support roles in churches. Gena and Andrew have been married for 16 years and have two children. They reside in North Carolina with their dog. Learn more about Gena at genathomas.com.
Kamilah Twymon, LPCC-S, MBA, serves as the Vice President of Operations at The Center for Family Safety and Healing, an affiliate of Nationwide Children’s Hospital, where she leads strategic initiatives that strengthen trauma-informed care, expand access to family support services, and enhance operational excellence across programs addressing child abuse, domestic violence, and family trauma.
Prior to her current role, Kamilah held leadership positions at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and The Buckeye Ranch, where she directed behavioral health programs focused on youth and family resilience. Her leadership is grounded in a deep commitment to advancing equity, building sustainable systems of care, and developing high-performing teams that deliver compassionate, data-informed services.
Kamilah is also the visionary and lead consultant for Ignite Counseling, Coaching, and Consulting (Ignite-CCC), where she specializes in helping mission-driven individuals and teams build momentum in their work and well-being through identity-affirming, inclusive services that center emotional wellness, equity, and sustainable impact.
Kamilah combines clinical expertise, organizational leadership, and strategic vision to drive meaningful systems change across the behavioral health and human services landscape.
William Watson first learned democracy watching his Mississippi parents risk their lives (and his) in the 1960s Civil Rights Movement. Defying odds set by childhood poverty and then alcoholism, William earned degrees in Philosophy, Comparative Religion, Anthropology, and Counseling Psychology before completing a social justice-focused education doctorate from San Francisco State University. He completed a Presidential Fellowship for College Excellence with The Aspen Institute and Stanford University while prototyping equity innovations in California higher education. When he left higher education in 2020 after a 20 year career, he founded Waterbrook, LLC, a USA democracy project, which works to expand anti-racist networks to ensure democracy. Cognella Press published his book, Twelve Steps for White America: for a United States of America, and its companion workbook with contributor, Christine Sleeter, Ph.D., in 2023. Bringing joy every day, William’s beloved Australian Shepherd, Ella, boasts two daddies and a black squirrel friend. Visit williamwatson.org, follow William on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/drwilliamwatson/, and visit NALSpeakersBureau.com for booking.
Larissa Lam is an award-winning recording artist, filmmaker and on-air personality. A proud UCLA Bruin from Diamond Bar, CA, she regularly speaks on diversity, inclusion and the Asian American experience at TEDx, Fortune 500 companies, churches, universities and community organizations. She has been a contributing author to the Los Angeles Times and the Asian American anthologies “Miso for Life” and “Pho for Life.” She has also been featured on media outlets such as CBS News, USA Today and NPR.
Lam directed the documentary, Far East Deep South, about Chinese families in Mississippi during segregation, which has won numerous honors including a 2022 Telly Award. The film made its broadcast premiere on the World Channel (PBS) series, “America ReFramed” and can also be seen on Tubi. Additionally, Lam has carved out a distinguished career in music and TV. She began her music career as a singer with the Gospel/Dance music group, Nitro Praise, and has released four albums of her original songs as a solo artist. Her song, “I Feel Alive”, won the Hollywood Music in Media Award and her song, “Breathing More,” was a Top 10 CCM Rhythmic radio hit. . For nine years, she co-hosted a weekly talk show, “Top 3,” on TBN’s youth network, JUCE TV with Rich Wilkerson, Jr., Reba Toney and Preston Pollard. Currently, with her husband, Baldwin Chiu aka Only Won, she co-hosts the podcast, “Love, Discovery and Dim Sum“, which helps people discover an Asian American perspective on race, history and culture.
Dr. Jerry Andrew Taylor serves as an Associate Professor at Abilene Christian University. With a passion for promoting racial understanding and spiritual action, he also holds the position of Founding Director of the ACU Carl Spain Center on Race Studies and Spiritual Action.
Dr. Taylor’s educational journey began in 1984 when he obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Religious Studies from Southwestern Christian College, located in Terrell, Texas. Eager to further his knowledge and effectiveness, he pursued higher education at Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas. In 1988, he earned a Master of Divinity degree, followed by a Doctor of Ministry degree in 1995.
Dr. Taylor frequently travels to college campuses, national conferences, and retreats where he shares his expertise and wisdom. His reach extends not only across the United States but also internationally, as he conducts seminars and conferences on various topics.
As an author, Dr. Taylor penned the book titled “Courageous Compassion,” which explores the power of compassion in our lives and the transformative impact it can have on society.
In his role as the Founding Director of the ACU Carl Spain Center on Race Studies and Spiritual Action, Dr. Taylor plays a pivotal role in organizing several significant events. These include the Racial Unity Leadership Summits, The African American Leadership Summits, National Spiritual Think Tanks, The Racial Healing of America Revival and Bus Tour, and Spiritual Retreats for Leaders across the country. Through these initiatives, he strives to foster racial unity, inspire leadership, and promote spiritual growth among individuals and communities.
Outside of his professional endeavors, Dr. Taylor is happily married to Patricia (Bowden) Taylor, formerly of Houston, Texas. Their enduring union spans over three decades. Since December 2002, the Taylor family has made Abilene, Texas their base of operations and ministry.
Additionally, Dr. Taylor serves as the Ministering Servant of the North 10th & Treadaway Church of Christ, where he continues to serve within his local community through his spiritual guidance, mentorship, and leadership.
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