Top 50 Black Professionals and Entrepreneurs - 2016

TOP 50 BLACK

2016

PROFESSIONALS & ENTREPRENEURS

VOLUME 1

4TH EDITION

Greshaun Fulgham Red Styxx Beverage/ DRIVEN Golf Trailblazer

Kim Easley Williams IBERIABANK Trailblazer

Thelma Scott Barbara Jordan Endeavors Corporation Community Hero

Anthony J. Snipes Missouri City Trailblazer

Pastor Alan Lamar Patterson Mount Corinth Church Community Hero

Tanya D. Allen Transport Workers Union – MTA Community Hero

Mark Holley Holley’s Seafood Restaurant & Oyster Bar Super P&E

Zaki Mirza Instant Cash, LLC Community Hero

Kelley L. Lavallais Strawberry Family Drug & Pharmacy Super P&E

C.J. Eaden C.J. Eaden, Inc. Super P&E

John W. Bland Transport Workers Union of America, AFL-CIO Trailblazer

Chief Vera Bumpers METRO Police Department Trailblazer

Lamont Ratcliff Wellness Management Group Trailblazer

Commissioner Gene L. Locke Harris Co. Precinct One Living Legend

Marcus D. Thierry The DRIVEN Group Living Legend

Alton L. Frailey Katy ISD Super Trailblazer

Derrick Mitchell Texas Southern University Board of Regents Super Trailblazer

J Thomas Smith, PhD Immigration Law Center/ Federal Law Center Super P&E

Teana V. Watson T.V. Watson Law, PLLC Super P&E

Frederick Barksdale Facility Interiors, Inc. Super P&E

Maggie Noel Maggie’s School of Golf Trailblazer

Christon Turner Pearland Police Department Trailblazer

Asst. Chief Lisa Haywood-Campbell Houston Fire Department Trailblazer

Dr. Charles McClelland Texas Southern University Community Hero

LaRence Snowden Texas Southern University Community Hero

Pastor Byron C. Stevenson The Fort Bend Church Community Hero

Dr. Gregg J. Patrick Southwest Community Baptist Church Community Hero

Bill Russell Momentum BMW Community Hero

Reginald E. McKamie Law Office of Reginald E. McKamie, Sr., P.C. Super P&E

Vivian R. King Vivian R. King Attorney at Law Super P&E

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Mary Prince & Jay Prince Rookies Cookies Family Affair

Janice Taylor & Dr. Sabrina Y. Lewis J & S Solutions Group Innovators

Art McElroy & Jacqueline Bostic It’s Biblical!™ Innovators

Annie Lidge Fluor Corporation Supplier Diversity

Carlton Cooper Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Supplier Diversity

Precious T. Bickham Thomas Bickham Group Top P&E

Marcus D. Wiley The Yolanda Adams Morning Show Top P&E

Malorie Bailey-Massie Mal’s Custom Jewelry Top P&E

Isiah Carey KRIV Fox 26 Top P&E

Dr. Shalondria R. Simpson Advance Compounding Pharmacy Top P&E

Nathaniel Curvey Accurate Security Inc. Top P&E

Mary L. Young Houston Police Department Top P&E

Alfred Evine Rucker Midtown Bail Bonds Top P&E

Katrina Patrick Law Offices of Katrina Patrick Top P&E

Anthony Newton

Kaduceus Holdings, Inc. Top P&E

Kevin Murray Kevin Murray LLC Top P&E

Queen Esther Esther’s Cajun Café & Soul Food Top P&E

Kevinn Robinson Houston Independent School District Top P&E

Hardy Jones III Imani Quality Concepts, LLC Top P&E

Juanita A. Jackson Harris County Public Defender’s Office Top P&E

Dr. Charles Kinuthia One Stop Tax Franchise Systems, Inc. Top P&E

Risa Hall 2016 NCAA Men’s Final Four Host Committee, Inc. Top P&E

Eric D. Goodwine Comcast Top Top P&E

Dr. Marilyn Parker Counseling Network Group Professionals, LLC Top P&E

Veronica R. Douglas Houston Community College System Top P&E

Timothy J. Stewart Steber Trucking Top P&E

Congratulations 2016 Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs Stephanie Green Lee Stephanie Lee Insurance Agency Top P&E

William H. Harrison West Arlington Consulting Group Top P&E

Douglas Smith & Marque Fountain Your Cost Furniture Up And Coming

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Tasha Royal The Royal Agency Top P&E

Sheldon Theragood Houston Police Department Top P&E

Jonathan C. Frank Jonathan C. Frank & Associates Up And Coming

Tiye T. Foley Baker Donelson Up And Coming

Claude E. Cox II Houston Independent School District Up And Coming

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

Message From the President & CEO

MR. D-MARS

“If you’re walking down the right path and you’re willing to keep walking, eventually you’ll make progress. Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.”

– President Barack Obama It is an honor to recognize the Top 50 Black Professionals and Entrepreneurs. We take pride in the fact that we recognize some of the best of the best in our city. We are elated to celebrate African-Americans at the top of their craft. It is of the utmost importance that we continue to celebrate those in our community doing amazing things and making great strides.

This group of professionals and entrepreneurs have devoted themselves to creating a successful brand, leaving a legacy for the next generation and other generations to follow. d-mars. com is proud to highlight those who serve as an example of generational wealth and success.

As African-Americans, we have a responsibility to help others in our community succeed. This group of honorees sets the example, and they are opening doors for others. In business, relationships are invaluable. Our top professionals and entrepreneurs know the value of relationships, as well as the importance of sharing their wealth of experience and knowledge to inspire the next generation. d-mars.com is proud to be a platform for these exemplary individuals. We are excited to recognize them for their massive success. To all of the honorees, we appreciate all that you have done and all that you are going to do.

Sincerely, MR. D-MARS President & CEO d-mars.com

TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

Message from Senior Vice President,

Message from Vice President,

Kevin “Brother D-MARS” Davis

Ms. Kimberly Floyd

“Excellence is to do a common thing in an uncommon way.”

— Booker T. Washington

“Self-esteem means knowing you are the dream.”

– Oprah Winfrey

In order to be a success in anything you do, you cannot be afraid to take risks. If all you ever aspire to be is mediocre, then you will always play it safe. This group of professionals and entrepreneurs didn’t play it safe. They were able to persevere and had the discipline to keep trying, not viewing failures or setbacks as defeat.

Struggles build character and resilience. I applaud this excellent group for continuing on the journey, despite the obstacles. They are truly shining examples for us to follow.

Each professional and entrepreneur we celebrate in this directory is a dream builder. Our community is full of corporate executives, entrepreneurs, and nonprofit leaders who know and understand success doesn’t happen overnight. This phenomenal group has made sacrifices and they were determined to endure the valleys along the journey. Dream builders understand that a valley is not a failure or the end, but a lesson to build upon for the next opportunity. This group reminds us to persevere to reach greatness. We To be able to recognize Houston’s Top 50 Black Professionals and salute our professionals and entrepreneurs for their strength and Entrepreneurs is a privilege for d-mars.com. They give us all a courageousness in being real-life dream builders. reason to aim higher. We are proud of you, and we are grateful for your successes.

Ms. Kimberly Floyd Kevin “Brother D-MARS” Davis Senior Vice President d-mars.com

Vice President d-mars.com

Staff:

Rockie Hayden, Dawn Paul,Tiffany Black, Ferland Antwine, Kevin Wright Eugenie Doualla, Andrea Hennekes, Angel Rosa, Booker T. “Pops D-MARS” Davis, Jr., Tashara Callaway

Photographers:

Louis “LC” Poullard, Grady Carter

Contact d-mars.com

7322 Southwest Freeway, Suite 805 | Houston, Texas 77074 | Phone: 713-272-9511 | Fax: 713-272-6364 Email Us: contact@d-mars.com | Web: www.d-mars.com Social Media Facebook: www.facebook.com/dmarsmarketing | Twitter: @dmars_com | Instagram: @dmars_com 2

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

TABLE OF CONTENTS Living Legend Commissioner Gene L. Locke................Harris Co. Precinct One.............................................................................................................. 6 Marcus D. Thierry...................................The DRIVEN Group................................................................................................................... 10 Super Trailblazer Derrick Mitchell......................................Texas Southern University Board of Regents......................................................................... 14 Alton L. Frailey........................................Katy ISD.................................................................................................................................... 16

Trailblazer Anthony J. Snipes ..................................Missouri City............................................................................................................................. 18 Greshaun Fulgham ................................Red Styxx Beverage/DRIVEN Golf........................................................................................... 20 John W. Bland ........................................Transport Workers Union of America, AFL-CIO....................................................................... 22 Chief Vera Bumpers...............................METRO Police Department...................................................................................................... 23 Lamont Ratcliff ......................................Wellness Management Group................................................................................................. 24 Kim Easley Williams...............................IBERIABANK.............................................................................................................................. 26 Asst. Chief Lisa Haywood-Campbell......Houston Fire Department........................................................................................................ 27 Christon Turner.......................................Pearland Police Department................................................................................................... 28 Maggie Noel............................................Maggie’s School of Golf and MNoel Tax Solutions................................................................ 29

Community Hero Tanya D. Allen.........................................Transport Workers Union – MTA.............................................................................................. 31 Bill Russell..............................................Momentum BMW..................................................................................................................... 32 Pastor Alan Lamar Patterson................Mount Corinth Church.............................................................................................................. 34 Dr. Gregg J. Patrick.................................Southwest Community Baptist Church................................................................................... 36 Pastor Byron C. Stevenson....................The Fort Bend Church.............................................................................................................. 38 Dr. Charles McClelland..........................Texas Southern University....................................................................................................... 40 LaRence Snowden.................................Texas Southern University....................................................................................................... 42 Thelma Scott..........................................Barbara Jordan Endeavors Corporation................................................................................. 44 Zaki Mirza...............................................Instant Cash, LLC..................................................................................................................... 45

Family Affair Mary Prince & Jay Prince.......................Rookies Cookies....................................................................................................................... 47

Innovators Art McElroy & Jacqueline Bostic............It’s Biblical!™............................................................................................................................ 50 Janice Taylor & Dr. Sabrina Y. Lewis......J & S Solutions Group.............................................................................................................. 52

Supplier Diversity Carlton Cooper.......................................Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT)........................................................................ 54 Annie Lidge.............................................Fluor Corporation..................................................................................................................... 55 4

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

Super P&E Mark Holley.............................................Holley’s Seafood Restaurant & Oyster Bar............................................................................. 60 Teana V. Watson.....................................T.V. Watson Law, PLLC............................................................................................................. 61 Vivian R. King.........................................Vivian R. King Attorney at Law................................................................................................. 62 C.J. Eaden...............................................C.J. Eaden, Inc.......................................................................................................................... 64 J Thomas Smith, JD, PhD.......................Immigration Law Center/Federal Law Center........................................................................ 66 Kelley L. Lavallais...................................Strawberry Family Drug & Pharmacy...................................................................................... 68 Reginald E. McKamie.............................Law Office of Reginald E. McKamie, Sr., P.C........................................................................... 70 Frederick Barksdale...............................Facility Interiors, Inc................................................................................................................. 72

Top P&E Alfred Evine Rucker................................Midtown Bail Bonds and Dolce Ultra Lounge & Bistro ......................................................... 76 Anthony Newton.....................................Kaduceus Holdings, Inc........................................................................................................... 78 Katrina Patrick.......................................Law Offices of Katrina Patrick................................................................................................. 80 Hardy Jones, III.......................................Imani Quality Concepts, LLC.................................................................................................... 82 Dr. Charles Kinuthia...............................One Stop Tax Franchise Systems, Inc..................................................................................... 84 Stephanie Green Lee.............................Stephanie Lee Insurance Agency............................................................................................ 86 Kevin Murray..........................................Kevin Murray LLC..................................................................................................................... 88 Eric D. Goodwine....................................Comcast.................................................................................................................................... 90 Isiah Carey..............................................KRIV Fox 26.............................................................................................................................. 92 Juanita A. Jackson..................................Harris County Public Defender’s Office................................................................................... 93 Malorie Bailey-Massie............................Mal’s Custom Jewelry.............................................................................................................. 94 Dr. Shalondria R. Simpson...................Advance Compounding Pharmacy.......................................................................................... 96 William H. Harrison................................West Arlington Consulting Group............................................................................................ 98 Dr. Marilyn Parker...................................Counseling Network Group Professionals, LLC....................................................................100 Mary L. Young.........................................Houston Police Department..................................................................................................102 Kevinn Robinson....................................Houston Independent School District...................................................................................103 Risa Hall..................................................2016 NCAA Men’s Final Four Host Committee, Inc.............................................................104 Marcus D. Wiley......................................The Yolanda Adams Morning Show.......................................................................................105 Precious T. Bickham...............................Thomas Bickham Group........................................................................................................106 Queen Esther..........................................Esther’s Cajun Café & Soul Food..........................................................................................108 Tasha Royal.............................................The Royal Agency...................................................................................................................110 Sheldon Theragood................................Houston Police Department..................................................................................................112 Veronica R. Douglas...............................Houston Community College System....................................................................................113 Nathaniel Curvey....................................Accurate Security Inc.............................................................................................................114 Timothy J. Stewart..................................Steber Trucking......................................................................................................................116

Up And Coming Jonathan C. Frank..................................Jonathan C. Frank & Associates............................................................................................118 Douglas Smith & Marque Fountain.......Your Cost Furniture................................................................................................................120 Claude E. Cox, II......................................Houston Independent School District...................................................................................122 Tiye T. Foley……………………………………..Baker Donelson……………… ……………………………………………………........................................123 TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

Commissioner Gene L. Locke

2016 LIVING LEGEND

sioner Locke has represented numerous individuals, governments and corporations. In the 1980’s, he was administrative assistant and legal counsel to the late U.S. Rep. Mickey Leland. He served as city attorney for the City of Houston from 1995 to 1998 and handled the city’s litigation involving affirmative action, redistricting and election contests. Previously, he served as general counsel to the Harris County-Houston Sports Authority and was instrumental in the negotiations and development of Minute Maid Park, NRG Stadium and the Toyota Center. Commissioner Locke was former special counsel to the Metropolitan Transit Authority (METRO).

Commissioner Locke has maintained extensive professional and community involvement, serving with various nonprofit organizations and community groups. He received the Diversity First Award from the Texas Diversity Council and is a prior recipient of distinguished alumnus awards from both South Texas College of Law Alumni Association and the University of Houston Black Alumni Association. He is also a past recipient of the NAACP Freedom Award for Outstanding Service.

Commissioner Locke and his wife Aubrey have been married for more than thirty years. He is a proud father of five children and has two grandchildren.

O

n January 22, 2016, Gene L. Locke was sworn in as Precinct One Harris County Commissioner, serving over 1.1 million people.

Commissioner Locke is a native of East Texas, graduating from high school in Marshall. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science in 1969 from the University of Houston and a Doctorate of Jurisprudence degree in 1981 from South Texas College of Law. He is of counsel with the Andrews Kurth LLP law firm and previously served as chair of the firm’s Diversity Committee and co-chair 6

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of the Public Law Section.

As a student leader at the University of Houston, he became involved in the social-change movements of the 1960’s.

Commissioner Locke led protests on issues like civil rights, Vietnam War, women’s rights and police brutality. In the 1970’s, he devoted his time and energy to working with people across the city and empowering neighborhoods for community development. He helped organize national demonstrations to support the end of colonialism and apartheid in Southern Africa.

Gene L. Locke Commissioner Precinct 1 1001 Preston, 9th Floor Houston, Texas 77002 713-755-6111

As a former practicing attorney, Commis-

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

Marcus D. Thierry 2016 LIVING LEGEND

M

r. Thierry is the CoFounder and Chief Executive Officer of Red Styxx Beverage (RSB), Texas’ only privatelyheld, minority certified beverage supplier.

RSB’s products are distributed by Republic National Distributing Company, the state’s largest beverage distributor, which is unprecedented for a company of its size. He helps oversee all product, beverage, and business development for the company. With Nicole Murphy, Mr. Thierry has helped turned DESTINY into one of the fastest growing brands in America, reaching into retail outlets like HEB, Kroger, Walmart, Randall’s, Specs, Fiesta Mart, and many others.

Also in tandem with the wine venture, Mr. Thierry, along with his business partner Greshaun Fulgham, co-founded DRIVEN Global, creating the first ever AfricanAmerican owned golf brand, DRIVEN Golf.

Previously, Mr. Thierry was known for building the nation’s largest privately held, physician-owned sleep diagnostics centers. These labs were the first 10

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physician-owned ventures in the nation, spreading over 13 states. During that same time, those business developments had a $5.3M impact in the sales of sleep diagnostic equipment and a $20M impact in real estate development. Furthermore, the aforementioned partnerships are responsible for over $40M in revenues and the creation of over 700 jobs.

Following that success in the diagnostic testing space, Mr. Thierry was granted one of the largest 2 year Federal contracts to sell diagnostic equipment to the Department of Veterans Affairs. The business did over $30M in revenue in 18 months and served federal customers in 25 states. The company was the recipient of the 2010 Texas SBA Small Business of the Year Award. This award was presented by Mayor Annise Parker and the University of Houston SBA Small Business Office, and given to alumni who exhibit outstanding leadership and accomplishment in entrepreneurship, business development, and/or equal opportunity efforts.

Mr. Thierry is a member of the Speaker’s Cabinet in the U.S. House of Representatives, as well as a senior adviser to the Congressional Black Caucus Texas Fund.

He also serves on The 18th Congressional District (TX) Veteran’s Advisory Board and is active in improving the lifestyle of wounded warriors who have bravely served our country. Recently, Mr. Thierry has received the 2014 Gerald Hines Entrepreneur of the Year Award (in Houston) and the Pinnacle Award presented by the U.S. Congressional Leadership Council.

Mr. Thierry is a recipient of this year’s dmars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs Living Legend Award.

Marcus D. Thierry Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer Red Styxx Beverage/ DRIVEN Golf 16680 Park Row, Houston TX 77084 1-800-423-1850 mdthierry@drivengroupllc.com www.redstyxxbeverage.com www.destinymoscato.com www.drivengroupllc.com

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

Derrick Mitchell 2016 SUPER TRAILBLAZER

the top law firms in the nation.

Mitchell’s List of Awards Include: • Thomson Reuters, Texas Super Lawyers, Rising Star, 2005-2011 • President’s Award, Houston Young Lawyers Association, 2004 • Real Times Media, Who’s Who in Black Houston, 2009 Mitchell’s Professional Affiliations Include: • Texas Southern University Board of Regents, Chair • United Way Alexis de Tocqueville Society, Member • Scenic Houston, Board Member • Row House CDC, Board Member and former President • Greater Houston Partnership Local Relations Committee, Member and former Chair • Texas State Securities, Board Member • Harris County Improvement District No. 8, Board Member

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errick Mitchell is an attorney and partner at Bracewell LLP, a leading law and government relations firm serving the oil and gas, power, financial services, technology, and public finance industries throughout the world. Mitchell received his B.B.A. in Finance from the University of Houston and his J.D. from the University of Houston Law Center. Mitchell is in the public law section of the Houston office.

He currently advises independent school districts and community colleges at the board level. In addition, he serves as bond counsel, disclosure counsel, and underwriter’s counsel to governmental entities.

Mitchell has served as bond counsel and disclosure counsel for tax exempt financings for independent school districts, cit-

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• State Bar of Texas ies, counties, and state agencies. He also represents various national and regional investment banking firms as underwriter’s counsel in bond and interest rate swap transactions. His practice emphasis includes general obligation and revenue bonds, including transportation revenue, industrial revenue, higher education, mortgage revenue, pollution control, and nonprofit hospital bonds.

• Houston Bar Association • National Association of Bond Lawyers • City of Houston Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone No. 24, Board Member • Gulf Coast Rail District Board of Directors, Member • Pro-Vision, Inc., Board Member

Derrick and his wife, Roslyn, are the proud As one of the top attorneys in Houston, parents to one son.

Mitchell has represented several underwriters in connection with financings for the Fort Bend County Toll Road Authority Derrick Mitchell and Harris County Toll Road Authority. In Partner addition, his experience as counsel for a banking institution as Underwriter’s Bracewell LLP 711 Louisiana Street, Suite 2300 Counsel in an Airport System Revenue Houston, Texas 77002 Refunding Bonds matter is one of the 713-221-1248 reasons why he is at the level he is today derrick.mitchell@bracewelllaw.com in the legal profession, working for one of www.bracewelllaw.com

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Alton L. Frailey 2016 SUPER TRAILBLAZER

of both the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce and the Katy Area Economic Development Council. Frailey established the Katy ISD Education Foundation which enables teachers to create extraordinary classroom experiences for their students through grant awards.

Frailey also spearheaded a new model to address attendance boundary modifications by engaging all stakeholders in the decision-making process. This proactive and facilitated approach to rezoning received the Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO) 2010 Pinnacle Award, the organization’s highest honor.

Most recently, Frailey was appointed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott to the Stephen F. Austin State University Board of Regents. He is also serving as President-elect for the American Association of School Administrators. His term as President of that organization begins July 2016.

S

erving as Superintendent for the Katy Independent School District since 2007, Alton Frailey is responsible for the daily operations of Katy ISD’s 61 campuses, over 73,000 students, more than 8,500 employees and the District’s overall success. During his tenure, Katy ISD has grown from a Texas Education Agency (TEA) “Academically Acceptable” district in 2006-07 to “Recognized” the following year. Katy ISD maintained that latter rating until the TEA introduced a new accountability system in 2013. Under that new system, the District earned the agency’s highest rating of “Met Standard.” This has been accomplished while adding 12 new schools and over 22,000 new students.

In 2013, Frailey envisioned and led the design work on the Robert R. Shaw Cent-

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er for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. He also led the District in successful bond referendums in 2010 and 2014. The most recent referendum in 2014, will add six new campuses, provide six major campus renovations, technology upgrades and safety and security measures to address the growth throughout Katy ISD over the next three years. Moreover, Frailey has implemented a number of initiatives to better connect the District to students, staff, and the community. Among these programs include the Superintendent’s Roundtables, once a month meetings that serve as an opportunity for open dialogue between parents, staff, students, and the community. He also started “Leadership Luncheons” where he meets throughout the year with civic leaders including the City of Katy Mayor, the President and CEO

Prior to joining Katy ISD, Frailey served as the Superintendent of DeSoto ISD, a suburban district in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, from 2005-2007. Though all of Frailey’s roots point back to Texas, he also served as Superintendent of Cincinnati Public Schools in Ohio from 2002-2005.

Before this, Frailey served in a number of roles with increasing responsibility in Spring Branch ISD, including: assistant superintendent in 2002, area superintendent from 1999-2002, and executive director of governmental operations from 1997-1999.

Frailey’s career started in 1983 as a teacher in Goose Creek ISD, where he eventually became an assistant principal, prior to joining Spring Branch ISD.

Alton L. Frailey Superintendent Katy ISD 6301 S. Stadium Lane Katy, TX 77494 281-396-6000

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Anthony J. Snipes 2016 TRAILBLAZER

ers, business owners, stakeholders and community leaders; • Convening a High Performance Organization seminar to introduce all teams to proven management techniques that will result in a work culture based on the decisions and leadership of employees from all levels; • Conceptualizing and launching a Community Walk and Ride Tour to connect first-hand with the citizens and learn about their issues of interest; • Managing the creation of a 501c3 to facilitate partnerships and sponsorships for recreational programs and special events, resulting in cost-savings for the City; • Launching the conceptual planning and design of a future City Hall plaza to feature a potential Veteran’s Memorial along with unique “Show Me City” artwork and other specialized landmarks;

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isionary leader Anthony J. Snipes is City Manager of Missouri City, a dynamically diverse and commercially thriving Fort Bend community of 70,000 that is recognized as one of America’s “Best” places to live.

Mr. Snipes is a veteran public administrator whose career spans more than 20 years and includes achievements in strategic initiatives involving budgeting and performance management, public/ private partnerships and organizational development. He has earned accolades for inspiring his teams with clarity of purpose and leading them toward a shared view of collective goals.

He joined the “Show Me City” on Dec. 1, 2015 after being unanimously appointed

by City Council Members to become the municipality’s seventh Chief Administrative Officer. Mr. Snipes oversees 344 employees and a combined annual budget

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of more than $105 million.

Before joining the ‘Show Me City’, Mr. Snipes was an administrator in different capacities for Dayton, Ohio; Fort Worth and Austin. In all three cities, he implemented proactive programs and led innovative initiatives that set a standard for excellence.

Utilizing his extensive experience, Mr. Snipes is steering a steady course toward success in Missouri City, forging myriad partnerships, firmly building on the legacy of leadership that established the “Show Me City” as a community that is fiscally sound, safe and scenic. Accomplishments of his first-quarter agenda include: • Meeting with each of the seven City Council Members, touring their respective Districts and identifying each elected official’s concerns for their constituents and the City as a whole; • Visiting with more than 200 develop-

• Directing the program for the City’s first Comprehensive Plan Symposium with regional partners, including the Kinder Institute at Rice University, which has conducted groundbreaking studies that show Missouri City is the most diverse in this region.

Just as he is committed to the community, Mr. Snipes is also a dedicated family man and says that his wife, Dr. Tracie Snipes, and their two children, keep him grounded.

He hails from Americus, GA, which is also home to Habitat for Humanity’s international headquarters, the historic Windsor Hotel, The Fuller Center for Housing.

Americus is next door to Plains, Ga.; hometown of President Jimmy Carter.

Mr. Snipes earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and sociology from Mercer University and a master’s degree in public administration from Florida State University.

Anthony J. Snipes City Manager Missouri City 1522 Texas Parkway Missouri City, Texas 77489

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

MISSOURICITYTX.GOV

THE “SHOW ME CITY” DYNAMIC DIVERSITY, THRIVING BUSINESSES, VIBRANT COMMUNITIES, FIRST-CLASS AMENITIES A Safe, Scenic City rated one of America’s “Best” places to live Home of award-winning, master-planned subdivisions Exceptional sites for commercial, industrial and retail development Located in the fastest growing County in U.S.; next door to the 4th largest City in the U.S. Recognized nationally for premier parks, including the award-winning Quail Valley Golf Course MISSOURI CITY IS THE PERFECT PLACE TO LIVE, WORK AND PLAY

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

Greshaun Fulgham 2016 TRAILBLAZER

lending departments.

Mr. Fulgham is also Founder and Managing Director of ICON Financial Advisory, a boutique consultancy focused on advising small commercial businesses and real estate developers on the capitalization of their business endeavors. He founded this firm based in Washington, DC in 2009, in response to the banking industry’s retraction of lending option in the midst of the financial crisis. He has advised in more than 75 transactions total in excess of $100MM since inception.

The scope of services includes all aspects of sourcing and structuring of debt and equity for various commercial and real estate projects as well as the associated development consulting both domestically and internationally.

M

r. Fulgham is the CoFounder and President of Red Styxx Beverage (RSB), Texas’ only privately-held, minority certified beverage supplier. RSB’s products are distributed by Republic National Distributing Company, the state’s largest and nation’s second largest beverage distributor. Mr. Fulgham leads the development of the sales implement strategy and implementation and directs strategic direction for the company.

Mr. Fulgham has been instrumental in establishing the company as one of the fastest growing wine brands in the country. Mr. Fulgham also leads RSB’s efforts to grow the brand internationally in its target growth markets. Also in tandem with the wine venture, Greshaun Fulgham, along with his business partner

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Mr. Fulgham’s other entrepreneurial ventures include ICON Development, a boutique real estate development company based in Washington, DC. ICON Development has completed and sold over $21MM in projects since its inception in 2012. Mr. Fulgham also founded an international development company, Greenprint Global, which is focused on housing development in Brazil, providing quality housing for low-wage earning families.

Mr. Fulgham previously founded a restaurant holding company with renowned Mark Thierry, co-founded DRIVEN Global, chef, Robert Gadsby that included serval creating the first ever African-American- successful restaurant concepts in the Washington, DC area. He later sold the owned golf brand, DRIVEN Golf. company to Gadsby to focus on core venMr. Fulgham is an 11 year banking vet- tures. eran who has led lending teams at both Fortune 500 and de novo community banking institutions. Under his leadership, the lending team at the community banking institution grew by $300MM in four years contribution to a sale to a larger bank holding company. After this venture, Mr. Fulgham joined the Robert L. Greshaun Fulgham Johnson Companies (RLJ) in the banking Co-Founder & President division, Urban Trust Bank. At RLJ, Mr. Fulgham simultaneous led the commercial Red Styxx Beverage/DRIVEN Golf lending effort and the retail team for the 16680 Park Row, Houston TX 77084 DC Metro region. Additionally, he was the 1-800-423-1850 g@drivengroupllc.com interface between RJL’s card products di- www.redstyxxbeverage.com vision focused on the underbanked and www.destinymoscato.com unbanked consumers and the bank’s www.drivengroupllc.com

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

C o n ti n u e t o r e a c h fo r y o u r D E S T I N Y. www.destinymoscato.com The World’s Premium Sparkling Moscato

TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

John W. Bland 2016 TRAILBLAZER

and justice for fifty plus years.

He also served local school districts for the betterment and academic achievement of all children. He has organized transportation workers in Houston, Aldine, North Forest, Dayton, Lufkin, Humble, Conroe, and Spring Independent School Districts. Mr. Bland has organized several school districts in West Texas inclusive of El Paso.

J

ohn W. Bland is a graduate of Phyllis Wheatley High School of 5th Ward in Houston, Texas.

While attending Texas Southern University, he was one of the founding members of the Progressive Youth Association (PYA).

Mr. Bland commenced his leadership role in civil rights through his affiliation with the PYA. Mr. Bland is a lifelong learner and has continued his learning through the George Meany Center for Labor Studies, the University of Houston Labor Studies, and Penn State Labor Studies, among others.

Through his tenure with the PYA, Mr. Bland was able to facilitate the racial integration of lunch counters, movie theaters, and other community establishments. He also fought for the hiring of 22

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Mr. Bland’s tenure in transport labor relations commenced after college when he was employed by Houtran (now METRO) as a bus operator in 1965. It was through his involvement as a steward for TWU Local 260 that he commenced his leadership tenure as Local Vice President, Secretary Treasurer, and later as International Organizer and Representative. He currently serves as International Administrative Vice President and Director of the Civil and Human Rights Division with the Transport Workers Union of America, AFLCIO. He is also Vice President of the A. Philip Randolph Institute, President of the Houston Chapter of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists, and a Trustee at Bethany Baptist Church. He is also on the Board of the Summerwood HOA, and he supports African-Americans as clerks/salesper- the Coalition of Labor Union Women. sons in the 1960s at major department Mr. Bland is a native Texan, born in San stores, including Foleys, Walgreens, and Augustine, Texas, and he is the eldest of J. C. Penney. Mr. Bland also served in the seven children. Mr. Bland has been marU. S. Army through a tour of duty in Korea ried to Betty Davis Bland for 53 years, from 1963 – 1965. and they have two daughters, Dr. Debbie Although he was a permanent fixture in Bland Nicholson and Fayetta Bland. Mr. the fight for racial equality in the 60s, Bland also has one grandchild, Jordan Nihe has continued the acceptance and cholson. respect of diversity throughout his life through labor, civic, and political involvement at the local, state, and national levels. He served as Precinct Judge for polling stations 230 and 583 for over 30 years and as Senatorial District 13 Chair for two terms. He also served several terms on the HPD Citizens Review Committee. Mr. Bland has served as a community leader for equal representation, inclusion, equal rights,

John W. Bland International Administrative Vice President Director of Civil and Human Rights Transport Workers Union of America, AFL-CIO 2000 North Loop West, Suite 132 Houston, TX 77018 713-680-3272 jblandtwu@yahoo.com www.TWU.org

TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

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Chief Vera Bumpers

2016 TRAILBLAZER

hief Vera Bumpers has been with the METRO Police Department for more than 30 years. She was a pioneer from the beginning, becoming the first woman to be promoted in every rank within the department. Chief Bumpers has served in a supervisory capacity for more than 25 years, with leadership roles in several units, including Patrol, Internal Affairs, Training, HOV Operations, and Homeland Security.

She was sworn in as Chief of Police on November 13, 2014, and she currently leads a team of 185 sworn personnel and 70 non-sworn personnel.

Chief Bumpers received a Bachelor of Science degree from Texas State University and a Master’s degree from Prairie View A&M University. She is a graduate of the 230th session of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia.

In October 1999, Chief Bumpers organized a group of women from different law enforcement agencies in the Houston region to host a Women in Law Enforcement Conference. The conference was titled, “Extra Ordinary Women Committed to Law Enforcement - Our Life, Our Love, and Our Legacy.” The conference was just one example of the Chief’s continued commitment to encouraging women and men in law enforcement.

In December 2015, Chief Bumpers received the 2015 Trailblazer Award from the Houston Chapter of Women Transportation Seminar. On February 12, 2016, Chief Bumpers was selected to be a panelist at the William R. Bracey CEO Symposium hosted by the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives in Hollywood, Florida. The workshop was titled, “Law Enforcement Today – Reflections from the Field.” Chief Bumpers has been featured in several media outlets, including the June 2015 issue of Houston Women Magazine.

Chief Bumpers is very active in the community and involved in the following organizations:

lege Police Academy Advisory Board

rated

• Member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police

• The Links, Incorporated

• Texas Police Chiefs Association

Chief Bumpers is married to Rodney Pentecost, and has two children, and one grandchild. She is an active member of New Light Christian Center Church.

• Houston Area Police Chiefs Association • National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives • National Association of Women Law Enforcement Executives • Women Transportation Seminar – Houston Chapter

• Chair of the Houston Community Col- • Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorpo-

Vera Bumpers Chief of Police METRO Police Department 1900 Main Street Houston, Texas 77002 713-615-6456 vb02@ridemetro.org www.ridemetro.org TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

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Lamont Ratcliff

2016 TRAILBLAZER

MD, Orthopedics and Radiologist. They also accept LOP’s from attorneys, private insurance, HMO/PPO and cash patients.

Ratcliff has insured that the WMG stays in the forefront with technology, by providing a real time website at www.wellnessmanagementgroup.com. This allows patients to schedule immediate appointments and also provides a real time Q&A. The WMG has been approved for an Android & iPhone application, which will give the patient immediate & effective access to this growing practice.

Ratcliff was a recipient of the d-mars.com 2012 and 2015 HMWP Award. He is a fulltime single father who actively participates in his son’s youth football team.

He enjoys working out, yoga, reading and spending time with family and friends.

Rafcliff’s Personal Proverb is, “The blessing is in the pressing!!!”

Lamont Ratcliff Director of Operations Gulf Coast Wellness Management Group 2000 Crawford St., Suite 1600 Houston, Texas 77002 713-524-4803 lamontwellness@aol.com

E

very patient should be treated like your only patient.” That is the mantra Lamont Ratcliff strives to uphold as the Director of Operations at the Gulf Coast Wellness Management Group (WMG).

The WMG is a full out patient medical rehabilitation facility that treats post accident injuries and work related accidents.

Ratcliff has been Director of Operations at the Wellness Management Group

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since its inception in 2002.

As the Director of Operations, Ratcliff has strategically formed relationships with private hospitals, surgical centers and minor emergency rooms, which have resulted in increased patient volume of 50% each year since 2005. The Wellness Management Group provides on-site doctor evaluation, physical medicine, medication management, work conditioning, drug testing and out patient diagnostic testing. The WMG employs a LMT, DC,

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

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Kim Easley Williams 2016 TRAILBLAZER

oping leaders and mentoring managers to success. Williams received her Executive Management Education Certification from the AALIP, UCLA Anderson School of Management, and she obtained her Bachelor of Science Degree in Theology at Christian Bible Institute and Seminary.

She is a dedicated and devoted mother of two, Jazmine Mone’, 24, who attends Sam Houston State University and Kameren, 16, a junior at Summer Creek High School and a varsity football player. She considers motherhood one of her greatest accomplishments. Williams is a 2016 SuperLady Houston Calendar Honoree and an active member of The Lighthouse Church of Houston. Serves as a mentor to women and young female adults in the community where she uses her voice as one of change to encourage, empower, and evoke them to excellence.

Williams believes that integrity and character are two of the most important attributes she offers, and without them, she would not be where God has graciously allowed her to be as a leader for people to follow. Her motto is from Philippians 1:6 that reads, “Being confident of this very thing, that he who hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.”

Kim Easley Williams’ Community Involvement Includes:

K

im Easley Williams inspirationally motivates and intentionally cultivates all those she touches, whether she is operating in her gift as a mother, minister, mentor, or manager. The anointing on her life has created unique opportunities for the collaborative use of her ministerial and professional training where she has experience in leadership, both in the religious and financial corporate sectors.

She is a charismatic leader who currently serves as Vice President of Community

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• Education Mentorship Association Banking for IBERIABANK. Williams is a Retail Market Executive with a documented track record of superior strategic planning and efficiency management. She is well-versed in business development initiatives. She is responsible for enhancing all aspects of the Retail Community Banking Centers in the Houston market through profit-driven sales and marketing capabilities. She remains market-focused and remains current with the ever changing industry trends.

With more than 25 years of experience in the financial sector, Williams has a proven track record in consistently devel-

• Montgomery County United • Member of the Galleria Area Chamber • Women’s Business Enterprise Alliance • Child Care Council of Houston, Inc., Board of Directors Member (Treasurer) Kim Easley Williams Vice President/Branch Market Manager of Community Banking IBERIABANK 3810 Richmond Ave. Houston, Texas 77027 713-624-1308 Kim.Williams@iberiabank.com www.IBERIABANK.com

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

Assistant Fire Chief Lisa Haywood-Campbell

2016 TRAILBLAZER

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ssistant Fire Chief Lisa Haywood-Campbell has been a member of the Houston Fire Department for 21 years, beginning her career as a Firefighter EMT. She is one of 105 women on a force of almost 4,000 firefighters.

Prior to beginning a career as a firefighter, she attended Prairie View A&M University, where she received a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering and worked for Exxon Corporation as a Planning and Facilities Engineer. She decided to take the challenge of becoming a Houston firefighter in 1994 after working in Corporate America for only 2 years. After serving 5 years as a firefighter, she began to study for promotional exams and climb up the ladder in the Houston Fire Department. She did so with passion and determination, making history several times throughout her journey.

She was one of the first African-American women to ever be promoted in the Houston Fire Department, and she was the first African-American woman engineer/ operator to be assigned to the Airport Rescue Firefighting Team.

As an African-American woman in a male dominated profession, she knew that her resume would have to be irrefutable in order to obtain certain assignments necessary to climb to the top. Although not required for the job, she obtained her MBA in Human Resources Management from LeTourneau University, graduating in 2004.

Other milestones include:

pointment. At that time, she was also the only African-American woman to ever hold the rank of Assistant Fire Chief in a major metropolitan city in the country.

• First African-American woman to be She has acted as the department’s Pubpromoted to the rank of Fire Captain lic Information Officer, overseeing the • First African-American woman to be Community Support Command, and she promoted to the rank of Senior Captain now manages the Human Resources (ranking #1 out of 189 candidates) Command.

• First African-American woman to be In addition to the dedication and achievepromoted to the position of District Chief ments at the Houston Fire Department, She was appointed to the position of Assistant Fire Chief in November of 2010, becoming first African-American woman in the State of Texas to receive this ap-

Assistant Chief Campbell is committed to her faith, family, and community. She is a devoted mother of two young boys, spends countless hours mentoring young

girls, and enjoys spending time with friends and family. She is also a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and Jack and Jill of America, Inc.

Lisa Haywood-Campbell Assistant Fire Chief Houston Fire Department 600 Jefferson Street, Suite 719 Houston, Texas 77002 832-394-6742 lisa.campbell@houstontx.gov TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

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Christon Turner 2016 Trailblazer

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Christian, husband, father, leader, CEO, and criminal investigator are just some of Christon Turner’s titles.

Christon, a native Houstonian and longtime resident of the City of Pearland, earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Texas State University and his Master of Arts degree from the University Of Houston.

In August 2006, Christon started his law enforcement career with the City of Pearland Police Department as a Police Officer. Within the first five years of his law enforcement career, Christon received numerous awards from his peers and department administration which included Officer of the Year and a Chief of Police Citation.

In 2010, Christon was promoted to detective in the Criminal Investigations Divi28

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sion of the Pearland Police Department, establishing himself as a trailblazer by becoming the first and only African-American detective in the history of the City Of Pearland Police Department’s 50 plus years of existence.

Christon was initially assigned to the Special Investigations Unit, responsible for covert investigations and surveillance necessities. Currently, Christon is protecting and serving the citizens within the community of Pearland by investigating crimes that range from homicide, robbery, burglary, theft, fraud, and other covert special investigations. Since being promoted to detective, Chris has again excelled in his duties and responsibilities as a criminal investigator, leading him to receive additional Chief of Police Citations and Unit Citations honors from his peers and department administration.

Christon’s service extends into the Houston community by way of his leadership responsibilities as a longtime member and the Director of Security (2007) at Higher Dimension Church. Weekly, Christon leads and supervises a team of more than 15 police officers who are responsible for the welfare and safety of thousands of church goers, 3 church campuses, and 6 weekly church services.

In 2014, Christon stepped out on faith and became an entrepreneur with the formation of his own company, Full Armor Solutions. Christon and his team specialize in security, asset protection, systems development, risk management, as well as providing consulting and assessments for businesses and organizations for an array of needs. Full Armor Solutions provides immediate, professional, calculated, consistent, safety, protection, operational, and logistical solutions to businesses and organizations. Full Armor’s commitment to excellence delivers efficient solutions with cutting edge success.

Full Armor Solutions seeks to protect every client from threats, fears, inefficiency, and disorganization through uniform or covert protection staffing, operations, logistics, planning, and consulting services.

Christon has developed a team of trained and licensed professionals that are dedicated to serving others with the elements of the full armor mentioned in Ephesians 6:11-17. Christon and his team live by the motto, “Exceed Expectations, Exercise Efficiency, and Execute Excellence!”

Christon is married to the love of his life, Pernilla, and they are proud parents of their beautiful daughter, Chloe.

Christon Turner Detective & CEO Pearland Police Department 2555 Cullen Blvd, Pearland, TX 77581 281-997-4204 ceturner@pearlandtx.gov Full Armor Solutions 713-824-5102 fullarmorsolutions@gamil.com

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

Maggie Noel 2016 TRAILBLAZER

I

f you were to ask Maggie Noel where she is from, she would boastfully answer, “Missouri City.” Born and raised in the suburb of Houston, TX, Maggie picked up her very first golf club at the tender age of six, as she would tag along with her dad on the weekends. On one particular trip to the golf course, a man that was hitting balls next to Maggie couldn’t help but spark up a conversation with her dad. Amazed at her skills at such a young age, he advised her dad to keep her interested in the sport. Her father immediately saw Maggie’s golf skills as an entry into college via a scholarship.

In 2002, Maggie represented the city of Houston at the World Junior Golf Cup finals in Orlando, Florida, where she placed 2nd.

She continued to showcase her golfing experience by securing the Individual Girls Gold Medal and helping her team win the Team Gold Medal at the National Youth Games in New Jersey. Maggie continued to dominate nationwide, and she won several state championships. She even traveled across the country playing in several notable championships. Due to her continued success and winnings on tour representing the City of Houston, Former Mayor of Houston, Bill White honored Maggie with her own day.

November 29, 2005 was declared “Maggie Noel’s Day.” After taking her time and thinking about which college offer she would take, she decided to accept a full-tuition scholarship to the University of North Texas.

Though it seemed like it would be an exciting new chapter in her life, it turned out to be the complete opposite for Maggie. After an amazing junior golf career, Maggie began to notice something within herself. She noticed that she was now being depended on.

Her team needed her to continue scoring the same low scores (70s) she shot as a junior golfer. The pressure from her teammates to perform caused Maggie to develop an odd and reoccurring anxiety disorder. Maggie started to get extremely nervous when she was standing over short putts. These sudden anxiety changes in her game made her golf game sink. Maggie became so mentally drained from the embarrassment, stress, and depression that the anxiety caused, that she decided to quit.

After taking a year off, Maggie decided she wanted to give golf another try. She won her 2nd golf tournament during her comeback to playing which allowed her to obtain a sponsorship. Maggie decided to play professionally in 2011 and began playing on mini tours mostly in Arizona and Florida.

In 2012, Maggie went to her first LPGA and Ladies European Tour qualifier where she encountered the anxiety attacks once again.

She then decided the playing route was just not for her. Maggie decided she wanted to be on the other side of the golf swing, the instructor side. What started out as just a few clients, grew to over 150 clients in just one year. Since then, Maggie’s very diverse and A-Lister clientele roster has grown well into the thousands nationwide.

What separates Maggie from all other golfers and golf instructors is her edgy style and effective golf teaching style and techniques.

She teaches in a way that is receptive to her clientele. Maggie is passionate about growing the game of golf in the younger urban community, as well as the female urban demographic. She uses her style and look to do it. Maggie makes golf cool, edgy, and relatable.

She was named one of Houston’s crea-

tive faces to watch in 2014 by the Houston Chronicle. Her growth and success has brought a great deal of notoriety, locally and nationally. She also gained instructional experience being a certified golf instructor at GolfTec in 2014. Due to her growing clientele base, popularity, and philanthropic outreach to grow the game of golf, Golf Digest named Maggie one of the 2014-2015 Best Young Golf Instructors in America. Swing Man Golf also ranked her No. 43 Most Popular Golf Instructors in the World.

Maggie is also the owner and operator of MNoel Tax Solutions. She is known by many as one of the nation’s most trusted and preferred tax and credit repair professionals.

Maggie Noel Professional Golfer and Instructor Tax Professional Maggie’s School of Golf MaggieNoelGolf@gmail.com Instagram: @sheplaysgolf MNoel Tax Solutions Maggie@mnoeltaxsolutions.com Instagram: @shedoestaxestoo www.shedoestaxes2credit.com TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

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It’s about us working together to help make your experience easy, efficient and cost-effective with: n The convenience of 19 locations throughout Greater Houston. n Multiple medical specialties and diagnostics under one roof. n The ability to email your doctor’s office or speak with a nurse day or night, 7 days a week. n 24-hour appointment scheduling and much more!

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Offering you and your family premier medical services in your community.

GetKelseyConnected.com | 24-Hour Appointment Scheduling 713-442-0000 30

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

Tanya D. Allen 2016 COMMUNITY HERO

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anya Allen is a native of Tyler Texas, an alumna of Texas Southern University, philanthropist, entrepreneur, and one of the leading health & wellness advocates for the City of Houston community. Currently, she is the Benefits Manager at the Transport Workers Union-Health and Welfare Trust, the benefits office for the Metropolitan Transit Authority employees. Her work within the health insurance field sparked a desire to bring awareness to METRO employees and their families about living a healthier lifestyle.

Allen’s vision created the Move Metro Move wellness initiative, which provides weekly programs such as walking, Zumba, line dancing, CPR training, strength training, biometric screenings, and health risk assessments at the METRO facilities. She has organized two wellness music festivals with notable artists, such

as Tony Terry and Grammy award winner Regina Belle. This wellness initiative has helped to change and save lives of many employees and their families. Due to the overwhelming success of this program, she has received a Certificate of Congressional Recognition from the United States Congress by Congresswoman Shelia Jackson Lee and a proclamation from the city of Houston by former Houston mayor Annise D. Parker.

etary assistance to talented and deserving students in the Greater Houston area.

The North Houston Frontiers Club’s membership is composed of 20 African-American men and women volunteers, who are determined to give something back to the community. The club annually hosts the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Breakfast to support their scholarship program.

Allen also serves as a trustee at God’s Grace Community Church under the leadership of Pastor Isaac Matthews.

Allen is also the Founder and CEO of J&W Enterprise, which consists of entertainment, event planning, and philanthropy.

J&W Enterprise produced its first kick-off show with award winning artists, Avery Sunshine and Kathy Taylor.

Tanya D. Allen Benefits Manager

Allen serves as Treasurer for the North Houston Frontiers Club. The North Houston Frontiers Club, Inc. is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3), service organization, dedicated to providing educational and mon-

Transport Workers Union – MTA Health & Welfare Trust 713-868-1995 713-868-1908 tallen@twu-hwt.org TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

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Bill Russell 2016 Community Hero

Russell is also the CEO of Bill Russell Enterprise, LLC, which owns and manages his other business ventures, including real estate, managing financial diversification, global sales training, motivational speaking and effective credit rebuilding solutions.

He has a genuine passion for giving and volunteering his time and resources to anyone in need. Russell believes everyone has inner greatness that can be harnessed. Russell’s motto is “I do what I do because my success requires it. I do what I do because my children deserve it. I do what I do because my ancestors expect it.”

Awards and Recognitions: • The Prayer Institute 2011 Sponsorship Award

Bill Russell Personal Car Dealer

• Aetna Medicare Magic Touch Award

Momentum BMW 10002 Southwest Freeway Houston, Texas 77074 713-596-3100 www.momentumbmw.net

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ill Russell is well-known in the automobile industry because of his knowledge and passion for fair and equitable treatment of all people when it comes to purchasing high-end items. This passion fuels his desire to successfully help those who need assistance purchasing a car.

For years he was an icon at Russell and Smith Ford, and now uses his expertise as part of The Sonic Automotive Group at Momentum BMW. With access to over 300 dealerships nationwide, Russell has expanded his repertoire of automobiles to include virtually any kind of car one could possibly desire.

Russell has over 30 years of experience and success in the automobile industry because he believes strongly in the sowing and reaping principle. He puts the needs of his customers above and before his own.

For Russell, it’s not about the dollar for him at this point, as he’s managed to 32

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• d-mars.com Top Black Attorneys Title Sponsor • Stellar Community Service Attitude Is Everything Award go beyond the dollar. His mission is to educate African-Americans on how to be better stewards of their resources. Russell’s goal is to assist others in realizing their dreams. His life scripture is Psalm 112:5, which reads, “Good comes to those who lend money generously and conduct their business fairly.”

He has acquired a certain level of wealth, which liberates him to unselfishly help others. A man of many gifts, media personality is also on his resume, and for 17 years he hosted a highly-rated and community-oriented radio program on KCOH called Bill Russell Car Talk.

As a child, he always knew he had potential for greatness. He decided at an early age that he would not allow his humble beginnings – one of five boys to a single parent mother – to influence his dreams.

Russell is also a cancer survivor and motivated by his faith, he is a testimony of God’s ability to empower you to be a David in a Goliath world.

• Friends of Friends Certificate of Congressional Recognition 11th Annual Salute to Positive Influential African-American Males • Constable Ruben Davis 8th Annual Grand Parade Participant • d-mars.com Top Black HMWP Title Sponsor • Ever Read Lodge #506 Trailblazers Award for Community Service (Fort Bend and Harris County) • Gulf Shores Academy Outstanding Contributor Award Champion of the Future • Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey 2005 Guest Ringmaster • Sterling High School Superior Community Service Award • Gulf Shores ISD Certificate of Appreciation • d-mars.com Professional & Entrepreneur Trailblazer Award • TSU Judson Robinson, Jr. Leadership Award – T.F. Freeman Ministries Summit • Windsor Village Married Couples Ministry Heart 2 Heart Mentor Program

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Pastor Alan Lamar Patterson 2016 Community Hero

from one of the nation’s most acclaimed historically black colleges, Hampton University in Hampton, Virginia.

He went on to matriculate at the Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University. While attending law school, he accepted his call into the ministry to become an advocate of the Lord rather than the law.

Pastor Alan obtained his Master’s degree from the prestigious Dallas Theological Seminary in Dallas, Texas. He is a past participant in the Theological Studies Program at the prestigious Princeton Theological Seminary at Princeton University in Princeton, New Jersey. In addition, he participated in the Proclaimer Place Program at the world renowned Oxford University in Oxford, England.

Pastor Alan also has served the community as the former NAACP Region VI, Religious Affairs Coordinator for the State of Texas. In Europe, he’s been the guest lecturer in Mannheim, Germany at the German Baptist Convention. Pastor Alan has also traveled all across America from California to New York spreading the gospel.

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lan Patterson’s contemporary, creative, and cutting-edge style of Christianity has caught not only the eye of the church community at large, but also the city of Houston and the country!

Nationally, he was chosen as one of the Top 20 Preachers to Watch Under 40 in the entire nation by the African-American Pulpit Journal. He’s the first preacher to simultaneously grace the front page cover stories of the main and religion sections in the Houston Chronicle. Pastor Alan is also the first preacher featured as the front page cover story for Houston Style Magazine. He’s been the front 34

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Currently, he serves as the National Lecturer for Young Adults in the Congress of Christian Education for the National Baptist Convention, U.S.A. Inc. Pastor Alan’s television broadcast can be viewed each Sunday morning at 5:30 A.M. on the CBS network affiliate KHOU TV Channel 11.

His radio broadcast airs each Sunday afternoon at 3:30 P.M. on KJOZ 880 AM. He is also a contributing writing for the d-mars.com publication, and he serves as Senior Pastor of the Mount Corinth Church Houston, Texas, following in his father’s footsteps, the late Dr. A. Louis Patterson Jr.

page cover story numerous times for the d-mars.com publication. On television, the ABC network Channel 13 Eyewitness News featured Pastor Alan in their award winning documentary series entitled, “A Closer Look,” making him the first He is married to the beautiful Deidra Conpreacher to be spotlighted in this secular rad Patterson, and they have one handdocumentary series. In addition, Fox 26 some son named Aldan Lamar Patterson.

News did a feature news story about Pastor Alan on “The Isaiah Factor” with Alan Lamar Patterson Isaiah Carey reporting.

Senior Pastor Pastor Alan is a graduate of the magnet high school for Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice in Houston, Texas. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree

Mount Corinth Missionary Baptist Church 4901 Providence Street Houston, Texas 77020 www.mountcorinth.com

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Dr. Gregg J. Patrick

2016 Community Hero

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orn in Birmingham, Alabama during the turbulent times of racial segregation, Pastor Gregg Patrick was raised in Los Angeles, California and moved to Houston. He founded the Southwest Community Baptist Church in January of 1991 with 19 members. Since that time, the church, known as “The Bridge,” has now grown to more than 8,500 members, and the ministry has planted 41 churches throughout Texas and the world.

In January of 1997, the church completed a $4.3 million dollar sanctuary, gymnasium and school project, which was previously begun in February 1996. Pastor Patrick is also administrator of Southwest Community Christian Academy, a 200-student private Christian institution.

At Southwest Biblical College, he teaches New and Old Testament Survey, The Gospels, Biblical Greek, Homiletics, Hermeneutics, and other biblical classes.

In January 1998, Pastor Patrick met with President Bill Clinton and Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, to discuss a plan of economic development for specific African and Israeli communities. In 2011, Pastor Patrick met with President Barrack Obama to discuss a variety of subjects.

In 1999, Pastor Patrick was inspired to begin “Take It to The Bridge,” the world’s largest one day gospel festival, held for 5 years in the Houston Astrodome and other cities, to raise money for the youth of Houston. Pastor Patrick has produced gospel videos and recordings featuring notable artists such as, John P. Kee, Dr. Bobby Jones, Jacki Valasquez, Shirley Caesar, Juan Carlos Alvarado, Kirk Franklin, Bishop T.D. Jakes, Vickie Winans, Juanita Bynum, Creflo Dollar, Marvin Sapp, and many, many others. In 2007, Pastor Patrick produced his first top 10 hit CD, “Crossover,” which earned a Stellar Award nomination for the smash gospel hit, “I Am a Witness.” Pastor Patrick is also a regular guest host of the Trinity Broadcast Network’s Praise The Lord. In 2015, Pastor Patrick released a new single, “Outstanding,” which debuted at #67 on the Billboard hot gospel charts.

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Former movie and television producer and business manager for Redd Foxx and Vice President of Horne Commercial Properties, Pastor Patrick has taken many of the business skills learned in college and developed in the secular world, to create ministries to aid and benefit all Texans.

Dr. Gregg J. Patrick Founder and Senior Pastor

Pastor Patrick is Chairman and CEO of Southwest Community Christian Center.

He earned a B.S. in Foreign Language and Religious; a M.S. in Christian Counseling; a Doctor of Divinity from Encourager Bible

Southwest Community Baptist Church 14880 Bellaire Blvd.

Houston, Texas 77083 281-983-LOVE (5683) www.swcbc.net

Seminary and a Doctor of Education from Trinity Theological Seminary. Pastor Patrick has four children; Patience, Kandice, Kristopher, and Paige. He has 6 grandchildren.

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Pastor Byron C. Stevenson 2016 Community Hero

cility expansion project.

Pastor Stevenson’s desire is for the church to live up to its motto of “Serving the total needs of God’s people.” Based on that motto, The Fort Bend Church currently offers over 40 ministries for men and women of all ages. Pastor Stevenson currently leads a dynamic staff of 40 full and part-time individuals uniquely gifted to serve God’s people.

As a community leader, Pastor Stevenson has served on several boards, including the Executive Board of the Baptist General Convention of Texas and the Houston Area Urban League, where he currently serves as Chairman of the Audit Committee. He is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and a life member of the Southern University Alumni Association.

His ministry travels have taken him to various parts of the world, including Cairo, Egypt, Rome, Italy, Jerusalem, Amman Jordan, and Bethlehem.

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He is married to his high school sweetheart, Sonya Taylor Stevenson. They are Theological Studies from Houston Bap- the proud parents of two daughters, Claire tist University. Pastor Stevenson is also Alexandra and Cydney Victoria. a Certified School Business Manager. After working in Corporate Accounting and Auditing for many years, Pastor Steven- Byron C. Stevenson son accepted God’s call to ministry and Senior Pastor and Founder preached his first sermon in July 1994.

A native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Pastor Stevenson is a graduate of Southern University and A&M College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting. He also earned a Masters of Arts degree in

After 10 years in ministry, Pastor Stevenson founded The Fort Bend Church on five pillars: trust, faith, kindness, compassion, and liberal giving. It was through the liberal hearts of the members of The Fort Bend Church that Pastor Stevenson successfully led the church to purchase 6.4 acres of land in Sugar Land, Texas after being in existence only nine months.

Since that time Pastor Stevenson has led the church in several capital campaigns resulting in the completion of a new 65,000 square feet worship center which opened in March of 2009. As a result of tremendous numerical growth, the church purchased an additional 7 acres in 2012 for a multi-phase parking and fa-

everend Byron C. Stevenson is the Senior Pastor and Founder of The Fort Bend Church in Sugar Land, Texas. Under his visionary leadership, The Fort Bend Church opened its doors for its inaugural worship service in a small cafeteria at Sugar Land Middle School on August 1, 2004. Over 600 individuals were in attendance. Since that time, over 5,500 members are now a part of this phenomenal ministry. In 2013, Outreach Magazine tabbed The Fort Bend Church as one of the Top 100 Fastest Growing Churches in America.

In addition, The Houston Forward Times newspaper recognized Pastor Stevenson with its prestigious designation as one of Houston’s Visionary Pastors of 2013.

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The Fort Bend Church 1900 Eldridge Rd.

Sugar Land, TX 77478 (281) 980-8322 www.thebend.org

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Pastor Byron C. Stevenson T H E F O R T B E N D C H U RC H C O N G R AT U L AT E S

O N B E I N G N O M I N AT E D A S A C O M M U N I T Y H E R O F O R T H E 2 016 TO P 5 0 B L AC K P R O F E S S I O N A L S A N D E N T R E P R E N E U R S

Come join us in worship SUNDAY WORSHIP SERVICES AT 8:30 AM AND 10:30 AM

WWW.THEBEND.ORG

1900 ELDRIDGE ROAD • SUGAR LAND, TX 77478 • PHONE: 281.980.8322 TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

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Dr. Charles McClelland 2016 Community Hero

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Charles McClelland took over the helm of Texas Southern University Athletics in April 2008.

As Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics, McClelland supervises a total of 16 sports. His daily duties include managing budgets, team scheduling, fundraising, marketing, and keeping abreast of current National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) rules and regulations. Since arriving at TSU, McClelland has elevated the athletics program to a higher level as it relates to athletics, academics, and overall brand visibility. In his years leading the department, McClelland has secured over $7.2 million dollars in corporate sponsorships and alumni contributions to help support this department.

In 2010, McClelland secured a student athletic fee that was passed by the student-body with 88% of the vote. The fee provides much needed additional revenue for the department and also assist with helping TSU Athletics live up to its mission of providing student-athletes with all of the amenities needed to be champions on and off the field. Under McClelland’s watch, the athletics programs’ facilities have steadily improved 40

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over recent years with the refurbishing of the departments’ weight room, Health and Physical Education Arena, as well as Alexander Durley Stadium, which serves as the home of Lady Tigers soccer and Texas Southern Track and Field.

and Texas Southern Football.

Upon arriving, improving the university’s Academic Progress Rate (APR) and Graduation Success Rate (GSR) were among McClelland’s top priorities. In doing so, he reorganized the Athletics Compliance Office with the hiring of a Senior Associate Athletic Director for Compliance, Director of Compliance, and an Academic Certifying Officer. Over the course of the past several years, the Texas Southern University Athletics Department has made significant strides in APR and student-athlete graduation rates.

A native of Jackson, Mississippi, McClelland’s extra-curricular affiliations include membership in the Texas Southern University National Alumni Association, Prairie View A&M University National Alumni Association, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., and the National Association of Black Accountants. McClelland is a former member of the NCAA Leadership/Management Council. He is also a past president of the Houston Touchdown Club and has served on the board of directors. McClelland served as chairman of the SWAC Council of Athletics Directors, a position which he held for ten years. McClelland is also currently a member of the Houston Final Four Organizing Committee. McClelland is the father of two sons, Cainan and Ashton. He is also married to Ashlee McClelland.

Before arriving at TSU, McClelland served as the Athletics Director at Prairie View A&M University for seven years. While at Prairie View, he increased football scholarships to the NCAA I-AA maximum of 63 Perhaps his biggest facility achievement, grant-in-aids. In 2007, Prairie View A&M’s McClelland played a large role in finaliz- football team captured the programs first ing a deal with the Houston Dynamo soc- winning season in over 30 years. cer team to share the newly constructed For his efforts, McClelland was named 22,000 seat BBVA Compass Stadium for one of 29 winners of the AstroTurf AthletTigers football. For McClelland, success in ics Director of the Year Award (2007) as athletics is not just about winning cham- presented by the National Association of pionships. His administrative philosophy Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA). centers around a belief that competing He was selected as the Football Chamat the NCAA Division I level is also about pionship Subdivision (FCS) West award graduating student-athletes. In an effort winner. McClelland was the first Athletic to assist Texas Southern student-athletes Director from the SWAC to receive this in reaching their full academic potential, prestigious award. A 1993 graduate of McClelland restructured the Athletics Prairie View A&M, McClelland earned his Academic Enhancement Center with the bachelor’s degree in accounting and in hiring of a new Assistant Athletic Director 1997, he received an MBA from Prairie for Academic Enhancement, while also View. He earned his doctoral degree in adding four full-time academic advisors higher education administration at Texas to work with TSU student-athletes.

A&M University in 2011.

Under McClelland’s watch, Texas Southern has won a total of 14 championships, marking the most successful eight year span in the programs history in over two decades. The 2014-15 athletics year marked the most successful single year in the rich history of TSU Athletics.

In the fall of 2015 Texas Southern Athletics also announced a major television deal had been reached with Root Sports that will have TSU Tigers football broadcasted in five different states. Root Sports is the exclusive television partner of the Houston Rockets, Houston Astros,

Dr. Charles McClelland Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics Texas Southern University 3100 Cleburne St. Houston, TX 77004 713-313-6830

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Athletics

THE PLACE OF CHAMPIONS

AND

SCHOLARS

Salutes for being recognized as

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LaRence Snowden 2016 Community Hero

LaRence also holds a Texas Real Estate Broker’s License and works part time on commercial / development projects. He spent fourteen years in corporate America, (Amoco Corporation, Enron Corporation, and Dynegy Corporation). During his tenure with these firms, he served in numerous positions, including deal manager for international energy development and broadband development projects, and director of policy development. His emphasis of concentration focused on environmental / climate change initiatives.

LaRence is and has been an active member of the following organizations: Accelerated Intermediate Academy – Board of Directors, Brentwood Baptist Church Board of Trustees - Chairperson, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Key PAC - Chairperson, and HRC – Board of Governors.

LaRence was appointed to serve on the Houston Housing Authority Board of Commissioners, where he now serves as Vice Chair.

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aRence Snowden serves as the Assistant Vice President for Development in the Office of University Advancement at Texas Southern University.

LaRence serves as a key leadership team member and active strategic decision maker, affecting fundraising and development opportunities for Texas Southern University. Previously, LaRence served as the Assistant Dean – Student Programs and External Affairs and Adjunct Professor at the Barbara Jordan – Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs (SOPA) at Texas Southern University. In this capacity, LaRence held responsibility for all student programming, fund development efforts, marketing placement, recruiting strategy 42

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LaRence was actively involved in the Obama for America Presidential Campaigns as a member of the Regional Finance Team. He was instrumental in hosting, then Democratic Nominee (Barack Obama) for the US Senate to represent the State of Illinois. He also hosted the first Houston fundraiser for Barack Obama during his initial visit to Texas as a Democratic Presidential Candidate. LaRence has also taken on an active role in local political campaigns, including the re-election of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee and served on the Executive Finance Committee for the re-election of Mayor Annise Parker.

development and implementation, and internal/external communications for SOPA. During his tenure, LaRence also managed the office operations and financial oversight for SOPA, for an extended period and serves as an avid mentor to numerous students, LaRence is a proud resident of the historencouraging them to pursue advanced ic “Third Ward” and enjoys reading, travedegrees. ling, and working in the community.

LaRence received his B.S. degree in Mechanical Engineering from Southern University, his M.S. degree in Mechanical LaRence Snowden Engineering from Texas A&M University, Assistant Vice President for Development (emphasis in energy efficiency / energy management analysis) and his Masters Texas Southern University in Public Policy Studies (M.P.P.) with em- 3100 Cleburne Street Houston, Texas 77004 phasis in strategy development, energy 713-313-6844 and environmental regulations from the SnowdenLB@tsu.edu University of Chicago. www.tsu.edu

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Thelma Scott

2016 Community Hero

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helma Scott, affectionately known as “Mama Scott,” is the Founder & CEO of Barbara Jordan Endeavors Corporation (BJEC), an organization discovering students with “Unique Abilities” throughout school districts in Houston and the Gulf Coast. She is a dedicated and passionate advocate for people with disabilities. Scott’s first appointment as an advocate for people with disabilities was in 2004 by the Honorable Mayor Lee P. Brown to the Mayor Committee for People with Disabilities and she was reappointed in 2006 by Honorable Mayor Bill White, which was the voice to create the Mayor Youth Advocate Award, awarded to a Youth with a Disability each year.

Always the activist, in 1997, Mama Scott headed the project for the renaming of a Diboll street in honor of the late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. In May 2012, Mama Scott and BJEC were nominated for the Washington, D.C. White House Champion of Change STEM Award for People with Disabilities Winning Futures Across America! The Honorable Mayor Annise D. Parker presented Mama Scott with the Mayor’s Community Disability Advocate of the Year Award in 2012. Mama Scott is a recipient of the d-mars.com 2014 Top Woman Award.

serves on various committees, including the Planning and Review Committee and Advocacy and Education Committee.

She serves on the Spring ISD Business and Community Advisory Committee, the Texas RehabAction Network Advocate Advisory Committee and travels to Washington, D.C. to advocate for bills that affect people with disabilities. She serves on the Mayor’s Office K-12 Advisory Committee and Marketing Advisory Committee.

Mama Scott has served on the Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce Education Committee for 10 years. She now serves on the Gulf Coast Diversity Council Advisory Committee and the Black Data Processing Association Advisory Committee.

Mama Scott is unstoppable when it comes to reaping the benefits of her labor. She has received numerous awards at national, state and local levels and has been featured on numerous television stations and in several publications.

Recently, Mama Scott was appointed as Associate Producer for the movie “Pound of Flesh” by Street Corner Films. She was also featured in the film “Temp to Fire” with Davito Family Films.

Most importantly, Mama Scott has overcome her own health scares and endured the most devastating incident to ever happen to her: the death of her beloved husband, partner and best friend for 41 years, Otis Scott Sr., in 2008. He was the person who influenced her most in life and all that she is today is because her husband loved her unconditionally, never letting her fail in anything as a woman with a “Unique Ability.” Rosemary McGowen, the sister of the late Barbara Jordan, has also been an inspiration in her life as a close friend and she continues to be the number one supporter for the BJEC Program.

Mama Scott is the proud mother of five beautiful children and nine wonderful grandchildren. She began her career in law enforcement, working for the Diboll Police Dept. for 10 1/2 years as a Communication Officer Supervisor. She atMama Scott currently serves on The Gov- tended Kilgore College, Stephen F. Austin ernor’s RCT Advisory Council in Austin and State University, Lamar University and 44

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Angelina College in Law Enforcement.

Mama Scott also attended North Harris Lone Star College studying Marketing and became a news article success story at North Harris College as a 52-year-old woman with a disability receiving a 4.0 GPA. Other Accomplishments Include: •Texas Diversity First Leadership Award, the first African-American woman to receive this award as a Founder & CEO of a nonprofit organization •Wealthy Sisters Net (WSN) Community Outreach Advocate of the Year Award 2015 •Texas Rehabilitation Association (TRA) Justin Dart (America with Disability Act) Advocate of the Year Award 2015 (The only one person in Texas honored with this award) •Texas GFSC Self-Advocate of the Year Award 2015 (The only person in Texas honored with this award) •2015 Appointed to the Spring Education Foundation Board •Created her own consulting company, ADE Consulting •First African-American woman to be appointed by Governor’s office to DARS (2008-2015 Mama Scott is branded as a “giver” and always quotes Barbara Jordan: “It is clear to me. We as human beings must be willing to accept people who are different from ourselves.” Mama Scott’s magnetic personality and unbridled determination has allowed her to impact more lives that can be counted. She fervently believes that “a disability is the opportunity to demonstrate extraordinary Unique Abilities.”

Thelma Scott Founder & CEO Barbara Jordan Endeavors Corporation 5800 Eastex Freeway Rm120 - Houston, Texas 77026 www.barbarajordanambassadors.org

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Zaki Mirza 2016 Community Hero

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aki Mirza was born in Pakistan.

He attended Harper College in Chicago, IL. Mirza came to the Houston area to take advantage of the diversity and amazing business opportunities that our city has to offer. After being in Houston for 10 years, he has established himself as one of the top businessmen in the area, as owner of Instant Cash, LLC. Mirza has a true entrepreneurial spirit, always motivating others around him to live to their fullest potential, and paying it forward to the community in which he lives.

and community organizations.

Humanitarian Foundation

He has a strong commitment to the community, and he is very active, always working hard as a businessman and as a productive contributing member of this area. Mirza’s passion for the community is evident by his fundraising efforts for worthy causes. He believes that all citizens deserve the opportunity to be successful in business, and is one who can be counted on to mentor those who want to achieve business success and reach their high goals.

• Vice President of the Muslim Democratic Caucus

He is constantly recognized for his community and district efforts that are enhancing the lives of the Houston area and its citizens. He has received countless achievement awards and honors.

Mirza holds membership in several civic

His awards and professional affiliations include: • Vice President of the Pakistan Chamber of Commerce USA • Chairman of the Board of the World

• Pakistan Association of Greater Houston (Past Joint Secretary) • Director of the Core Committee of the APML Houston Chapter Mirza is married to his beautiful wife, Khadija, and they have four wonderful children between them. He lives in Missouri City, Texas.

Zaki Mirza President and CEO Instant Cash, LLC 7307 Bellerive Drive Houston, TX 77036 TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

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Mary Prince and Jay Prince 2016 FAMILY AFFAIR

ocated in the heart of Third Ward, near Texas Southern University and the University of Houston, is Rookies Cookies, a gem for connoisseurs of cookie confections and sweet treats. Jay Prince and his mom, Mary, have co-created a culinary cookie empire with Rookies Cookies. The family credits the success of the business to faith in God, hard work, stellar customer service, and their genuine love for the community to have the best.

It all started in the Prince kitchen when Jay was a youngster, that the Rookies Cookies’ seed was planted. Jay’s inspiration started when he would see his big sister, Ashley, make oatmeal cookies for their dad. The more Jay made the cookies, the more he understood that the ingredients really change the flavor. He began experimenting with the recipe, until he created the absolute perfect oatmeal cookie.

Mary has a degree from the University of Houston, and she has had experience and success in graphic design, but this is not her first dip in the entrepreneurial waters. Mary has a strong faith in God, and shares that faith in her successful business, Without Ceasing, Inc., creating prayer stools. One of Mary’s favorite scriptures is Proverbs 14:23 that reads, “All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.”

In 2010, Mary told Jay this needed to be an official business. They set up the storefront on Scott, and since the grand opening in September 2015, Rookies Cookies hasn’t stopped growing, making Texas Southern University, and the Unithe best oatmeal cookies you have tasted versity of Houston as neighbors, Mary and exceeding their expectations. and Jay see Rookies Cookies as a source Mary and Jay stepped out on faith and for students in the area to get first-hand took the risk to gain success. It’s impor- knowledge of how a business runs and tant to them to be an entrepreneur and to give them self-esteem and encourageown yourself. Rookies Cookies is not just ment to be their own boss. a business. To Mary and Jay, Rookies Cookies is a legacy and a ministry. Mary having attended the University of Houston, Third Ward has a special place in her heart. With Jack Yates High School,

Mary and Jay have a genuine love and spirit for the community. Mary sees her experiences and community initiatives as a way for her and her family to be a witness of God’s goodness. To see Rook-

ies Cookies provide a quality product and contribute to the community is the true reward for them.

Mary Prince and Jay Prince Co-Founders Rookies Cookies 3530 Scott Houston, TX 77004 832-834-7165 info@rookiescookies.com rookiescookies.com TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

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Get your book TODAY at www.answermovement.com!

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Art McElroy and Jacqueline Bostic

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2016 INNOVATOR

rt McElroy and Jacqueline Bostic are the dynamic technology duo behind the It’s Biblical!™ app, and they have provided a non-traditional, comprehensible, and awesome platform, helping the masses to understand the Bible one click at a time. For them, It’s Biblical!™ is more than just an app, but it is a ministry.

McElroy, through his uniquely collaborative style and approach to the Gospel, shares God’s message of grace and love with all people regardless of faith, race, or gender. Appreciating the life that God has given him over twelve years ago, McElroy was inspired to develop a nontraditional approach that increases the world’s consciousness of Jesus Christ. As a result, in June of 2011, he founded and created The Penuel Group Inc. ™. Bostic is the perfect partner in business, as she shares the same love of Christ as McElroy.

The It’s Biblical!™ partnership under The Penuel Group was a win-win for both.

The Peneul Group Inc. ™ encompasses several entities that are all designed to transform the hearts and minds of many into the realized promises of love and grace, no matter the level of maturity of one’s faith. The Peneul Group Inc. ™ is comprised of: • It’s Biblical!™ - a Bible search trivia game

Business Administration. He has always strived for excellence, having a 20 year successful career in the healthcare mar• A Christian’s Conversation™ - an ket. Bostic is no stranger to achievement interactive multi-author blog that facilias well, and she is the great-great grandtates biblically-based dialogue on all daughter of the well-known Jack Yates, subjects of life pastor of Antioch Missionary Baptist • My Righteous Wear™ - hip and trendy Church, Houston’s first African-American Christian apparel and accessories inBaptist church. Bostic holds a BBA in tended to drive self-expression of one’s Marketing from Texas Southern Univerlove for Christ sity and a Doctor of Jurisprudence from Thurgood Marshall School of Law. In ad• The Melchizedek Experience™ - a dition to owning and operating her own world-wide nonprofit organization that successful legal practice, J.F. Bostic & Ashelps develop spiritual, social, and ecosociates, she is the creator and host of nomic unity through collaboration the She Empowers Others Radio Show on McElroy and Bostic both have an impresMJWJ Global Radio Network. sive resume outside of this great technology endeavor. McElroy, originally from Together, McElroy and Bostic have not Port Arthur, Texas, is a proud graduate of only created this tech savvy invention for Prairie View A&M University with a BBA in business, but as a ministry. Their mis50

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sion through It’s Biblical!™ is to mature and grow individuals in the word of God. They feel that praise and worship is predicated on the level of knowledge of God. By teaching Christ and Christ alone, they hope to share in His realized promises of love and grace. Their purpose is to be all inclusive regardless of faith, race, and gender.

And just as they are perfect partners in business, they are also perfect partners in love, as they will become one in marriage very soon.

Art McElroy and Jacqueline Bostic Co-Founders It’s Biblical!™ info@its-biblical.com its-biblical.com www.thepenuelgroup.com

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Janice Taylor and Dr. Sabrina Y. Lewis 2016 INNOVATOR

organizational behavior, training, business and management, and leadership.

Dr. Lewis has more than 23 years of experience in human resources, business, instruction, accounting, and student services as an administrator in higher education. Dr. Lewis has been successful in developing, implementing, and managing initiatives for veterans and other programs such as: workforce programs, benefits, instructional, budgeting, audits, and compliance issues.

J & S Solutions Group’s goals include improving veteran access to their benefits, providing business solutions to the VET and companies they do business with.

Their main focus is to ensure that veterans have access to educational opportunities and that the schools they attend will provide quality customer service and remain in compliance. They want to help our vets pursue their educational goals and have successful careers. J & S Solutions Group is there to bridge the gap, creating a strong partnership between the schools and the vets.

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anice Taylor and Dr. Sabrina Y. Lewis are co-founders and coowners of J & S Solutions Group, a company providing quality services to veterans and superior business solutions to companies with customer service issues. J & S Solutions Group believes in making veterans their first priority and providing exceptional customer service.

J & S Solutions Group partners with the veterans and the educational institutions they desire to attend, making recommendations that will keep the schools in compliance. In addition to that, J & S Solutions Group provides customer service in the areas of: staffing and hiring veterans, grant writing, and real estate.

Ms. Taylor has worked in a Fortune 500 fast growing company in Houston, Texas, for 32 years. Ms. Taylor holds a BA degree in Business Administration from Sam Houston State University and an

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MBA from the University of Phoenix in Organizational Management. Ms. Taylor has been successful in conducting sold-out seminars on customer service.

In addition, Ms. Taylor has experienced working countless hours at providing customer service to the men and women who have graciously served our country.

Ms. Taylor also spends much of her time showing others how to pursue their life purpose. Through her community service and her passion for young people, the former mayor of Houston, Annise Parker, awarded her nonprofit organization, Power in Purity, a city proclamation declaring the week of February 22-26 as “Children of Alcoholics Week.”

Dr. Lewis obtained a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Wiley College, an MBA from Texas Southern University, and a Doctorate of Management in Organizational Leadership from the University of Phoenix. This has prepared Dr. Lewis for a successful career in

J & S Solutions Group discovered there were no independent companies providing this type of service to veterans, schools, and universities. There are issues with debts that impact both the student and the school. They know that their one-on-one relationship with schools and the students can better control compliance issues.

Their unique value of providing quality customer service makes J & S Solutions Group stand out against the competition.

First Lady Michelle Obama inspires them as African-American women to be all that they can be. To Ms. Taylor and Dr. Lewis, J & S Solutions Group is more than just a business, but a way for them to give back and proudly serve our veterans who have bravely and selflessly served our country.

Janice Taylor and Dr. Sabrina Y. Lewis Co-Owners J & S Solutions Group Williams Tower 2800 Post Oak Boulevard, Suite 4100 Houston, Texas 77056 713-599-0142

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Carlton Cooper 2016 SUPPLIER DIVERSITY

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arlton Cooper is the Business Development Specialist for Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) at the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT).

Cooper is deeply committed to helping increase DBE certification and participation for business contracting opportunities with TxDOT. He has been instrumental in promoting TxDOT’s statewide training, technical assistance and business development programs throughout the 25 TxDOT districts. Cooper serves as liaison for Texas Association of African Americans Chamber of Commerce (TAAACC).

Before landing his current position at TxDOT, Cooper served as the Director of Athletics at Texas A&M University-Commerce

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from 2007-2012. During his tenure as the director, Cooper made history for the Lions with athletic facility improvements that included the football stadium’s visitor side seating for the first time in the school’s 120-year history, along with a new state of the art scoreboard and football locker room. He helped raise the funds for a new academic center for athletics, which did not exist in DIV II Athletics.

Cooper served as Senior Associate Athletic Director for Internal Operations at Southern Methodist University (SMU) from 1998 to 2007. During that time, he was a part of the administration that opened the $75 million Gerald Ford Football Stadium, and he was instrumental in building the Gary Crum basketball practice facility.

Cooper’s solid administrative management skills have afforded him opportunities to manage other noteworthy projects, including the 2000 NCAA Women’s Final Four in Soccer and the 2001 NCAA Men’s Soccer Final Four in Dallas.

Cooper completed his Master’s degree at Southern Methodist University and Undergraduate degree at the University of Texas at Austin. He remains active with both universities in academics and athletics. Cooper has four children: Brandon, Danielle, Chanel, Ava and family dog, Holiday.

Carlton Cooper Business Development Specialist for Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) www.txdot.gov

TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

2/23/2016 11:58:05 AM

d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

Annie Lidge

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2016 SUPPLIER DIVERSITY

nnie Lidge has more than 40 years of experience in procurement and contracting within the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) industry in both government and commercial applications. She began her career with Fluor Corporation in 1974 in the City of Industry, California, where she worked in expediting as an administrative clerk and was quickly promoted to Shop Expediting technician. Even then, she was breaking barriers as the 1 of only 3 females in a male dominated area field.

Since then, she has become valued for her expertise in supply chain execution. She advanced her career by taking on challenging roles, including Project Procurement Manager (PPM) for the FEMA Katrina Project in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, following the devastation of Hurricane Katrina; and PPM for the LDK Polysilicon China project, Siberian Polycrystalline (Fluor’s first international polysilicon project), and Sibur Tobolsk Polymer projects executed out of Greenville, South Carolina. As PPM, Annie managed all project buyers and traveled to Moscow, Russia, to train the in country Procurement team on Fluor practices and procedures.

In 2009, Annie took on a new role as Senior Manager of Corporate Procurement and Contracts in Fluor’s Sugar Land, Texas, office. There, she was responsible for the strategic sourcing of goods and services purchased on behalf of Fluor. It was there Annie became familiar with Fluor’s Supplier domestic Fluor offices engaged, participating and supporting business development Diversity Program. councils in their respective regions.

Due to her passion for client service excellence and commitment to sustainable Today, Fluor’s Supplier Diversity Program practices, Annie was appointed Fluor’s serves as a model for other EPC firms seekCorporate Supplier Diversity Program Man- ing to bolster their commitment to sustainager in 2013. In this role, she transformed able communities. the longstanding Supplier Diversity Pro- Active in a number of professional and pergram into a proactive initiative supported sonal organizations, Annie is a member of by an executive board. She has developed the NAACP, FluorCares, and GROW (Growgroundbreaking processes and procedures, ing Representation and Opportunity for established program committees made up Women). In 2013, Annie was awarded Supof Fluor volunteers, recruited and trained plier Diversity Advocate of the Year by the program champions, and defined and mon- Houston Minority Supplier Development itored the program’s goals and initiatives. Council.

Through her work, Annie has developed a Annie currently lives in Richmond, Texas, thriving supplier diversity program with all and is the proud mom of two adult daugh-

ters. In her free time, Annie enjoys traveling, reading, politics and spiritual growth through religious studies.

Annie attended Alcorn A&M University in Lorman, Mississippi, and the University of California in Orange County, California, where she majored in Business Administration. She is a graduate of the Fluor Management Institute.

Annie Lidge Supplier Diversity Program Manager Fluor Corporation 1 Fluor Daniel Drive Sugar Land, Texas 77478 281-263-6840 annie.lidge@fluor.com www.fluor.com TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

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TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

2/23/2016 11:58:14 AM

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Mark Holley 2016 SUPER P&E

numerable ones as chef as well.

Twelve years later, in 2012, Pesce was sold and closed, leaving the popular chef without a restaurant. But the now star chef began formulating a plan to open his own restaurant - one where the hat he would wear would say Chef and Owner.

While he had the plan, nailing down the details would come slowly, and Holley had no plans to rush. While catering private events and hosting occasional pop-up dinners in Houston, he also traveled the country, exploring areas old and new, defining foods and experimenting with ways to improve them.

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hef Holley’s inspiration first took hold in Dayton, Ohio, where he was born and raised, inspired to make a career in food, helping both his mother and stepmother in the kitchen. As he helped prepare these meals, however, he learned from both how the dishes and ingredients were not simply meals, but a reflection of his family history, passed down through the generations like old stories and heirlooms.

Holley was hooked. While beginning formal culinary schooling in Ohio, he worked as an apprentice at a popular local restaurant. His growing experience led to a passionate interest in classic French cooking and skills - a passion that first brought him to Houston in 1983. After working as a Saucier at first the Meridian Hotel and then Four Seasons Inn on the Park, one of the most promising doors in his career quest swung open. Offered a position with the renowned Brennan’s of Houston, the young chef began an education in Louisiana and Creole cooking under famed Chef Carl Walker.

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right, saw in Holley the potential for greatness. Soon, Holley was working for the late Jamie Shannon as the Garde Manger and Sous Chef of the internationallyrecognized Commander’s Palace in New Orleans. Three years later he returned to Brennan’s of Houston as Chef Walker’s Chef de Cuisine, contributing to many of the accolades the eatery received.

During his tenure, Brennan’s became a member of the distinguished restaurants in North America and Holley, along with Chef Walker, participated in the creation of a special dinner at the James Beard House in New York.

Early in 2014, Holley found a location at the corner of Elgin and Louisiana in Houston’s midtown, the former Sushi Raku space. Soon, he traded chef scrubs for suit and tie while seeking out investors.

He gave up knives and forks for pencils as he sketched out his visions for the restaurant’s design. He soon learned as much about fabrics and paint colors as he already knew about fish. In typical Holley fashion, he simply calls the whole process a great education for someone who has looked at the world from a kitchen.

Holley’s Seafood Restaurant & Oyster Bar has been opened for more than a year and has already won awards like the 2015 Houston’s MyTable award for Best New Restaurant. Allison Cook also rated Holley’s as one of Houston’s Top 100 Restaurants, while Houstonia Magazine rated Holley’s in the Top 38 Best New Restaurants in Houston for 2015. The team at Holley’s plan to continue setting higher limits for themselves.

In 1999, the next biggest step in his ca- Chef Holley is happily married to his beaureer was made when Holley was invited tiful wife, Yvonne. He has 4 beautiful to take over his own kitchen. He quickly daughters and 4 beautiful grandchildren. agreed, and in 2000, a new upscale seafood restaurant called Pesce opened with Holley as Executive Chef. In almost Mark Holley no time, Holley and Pesce raised the bar Chef & Owner on seafood in the city. Pesce became the leading seafood restaurant in Houston, Holley’s Seafood Restaurant & Oyster Bar garnering media attention and recogni- 3201 Louisiana Street Houston, TX 77006 tion as well as countless awards. No long- 713-491-2222 er in the shadows, Holley was accepting mark@holleyshouston.com not just the accolades for Pesce, but in- holleyshouston.com

TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

2/23/2016 11:58:17 AM

d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

Teana V. Watson 2016 SUPER P&E

PLLC, a full service law firm with practice areas that cover civil, family, and criminal law and attorneys with a combined 65 years of legal experience.

Watson has presented papers and lectured for the State Bar of Texas, Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, as well as other organizations. She has sat on the board of the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Education Institute and currently the Criminal Defense Lawyers Project. She is the past vice president of the Fort Bend County Criminal Lawyers Association.

In her spare time, she enjoys participating in public service activities, charitable fun runs, and leisure reading. She has been married to her husband, Ricardo Watson, for 25 years. Together, they have two sons, Ricky a graduate of Hampton University in Virginia and Cordell, a student at St. Mary’s University in San Antonio. They have been parishioners of Holy Family Catholic Church in Missouri City, for over 20 years.

Teana V. Watson Attorney T.V. Watson Law, PLLC 10701 Corporate Drive, Suite 185 Stafford, Texas 77477 281-491-4838 www.teanawatson.com

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eana Watson is a native Houstonian and a proud graduate of Jesse H. Jones High School Vanguard Program. After high school, Watson studied as a Sloan Fellow at Princeton University and graduated with honors from Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee in 1986. After interning at Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, she graduated from Syracuse University College of Law in Syracuse, New York.

Watson returned home to Texas and

commenced her legal career in the Fort Bend County District Attorney’s Office in 1991. She was later promoted to Chief Prosecutor of the Juvenile Division.

In 1996, Watson opened her law practice, representing clients in State and Federal Court in Criminal and Civil matters and as general counsel to the Fort Bend and North Forest Federation of Teachers.

She also served part-time as a municipal judge for the city of Stafford from 2002-2010. In January 2014, Teana Watson founded T.V. Watson Law TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

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Vivian R. King

2016 SUPER P&E

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ivian R. King graduated from the University of Houston in 1980 with a BA in Accounting.

Vivian retired from her Fortune 500 banking/accounting career after nine years and decided to go into a profession that needed more black women—the profession of law. So at 30, Vivian went to law school, and three years later, she graduated cum laude from Thurgood Marshall School of Law in 1992. Vivian was licensed by the State Bar of Texas in November 1992. Vivian was a prosecutor in Houston, Harris County, Texas, from 1992 to 1995. Vivian is the second black female Board Certified in Criminal Law in Texas. Vivian’s private practice was established in Houston in March of 1995, where she represents persons accused of crimes in both State and Federal Courts.

Vivian was voted Lawyer of the Year by the Harris County Criminal Defense Lawyers’ Association and the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers’ Association in 2011 (the first time this award was presented to women in Texas/shared award with two other female lawyers). Vivian was also voted as one of the Winning Women Trial Lawyers by Texas Lawyer Magazine on August 22, 2011.

Vivian is a criminal law expert and frequent speaker in trial skills in and around Texas.

Vivian has saved the lives of many innocent persons charged with serious crimes. Vivian is passionate about being a voice for the little person--those who don’t have a voice in the criminal justice system. In November 2011, Vivian’s passion for the under-dog became so strong that she created a forum for people to tell their criminal justice stories—“Truth & Justice with Vivian King.”

Vivian hosts, produces, and finances this TV show. The goal of this weekly live call-in public access TV show is to educate viewers through stories, so people can learn from the mistakes of others and hopefully not end up in the criminal justice system.

they pay for, but are precluded from the decision-making process Vivian is a member of the following organizations: • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers • Texas Criminal Defense lawyers Association • Harris County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association • Houston Lawyers Association • Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated

Honors & Awards • 2011- 2015 Super Lawyer - Criminal Defense, TX Monthly Mag Other goals of the TV show are to • 2011- 2015 Super Lawyer - Criminal Dehighlight: fense, TX Super Law • Hope after incarceration • 2011 Texas Lawyer Winning Women • The pitfalls of mass incarceration Award, Texas Lawyer • People being a victim to the system that • 2011 Percy Foreman Lawyer of the Year, 62

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Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association • 2011 Lawyer of the Year, Harris County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association • 2011 Legal Eagle Award, Harris County Council of Organizations • 2010 Francis Williams Advocacy Award, Houston Lawyers Association • 2009 Recognized by Houston Press • 2007 Unsung Award, Harris County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association Vivian is also co-star on WE TV’s reality TV show, “Sisters in Law.” Vivian R. King Attorney and Owner Vivian R. King Attorney at Law 2202 Alabama Street Houston, Texas 77004 713-222-2019 www.vivianrking.com

TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

2/23/2016 11:58:20 AM

d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

A N D E R S O N & S M I T H P. C .

CONGRATULATIONS Pastor Byron C. Stevenson Pastor Gregg J. Patrick Art McElroy & Jacqueline Bostic Vivian R. King Well-Deserved!

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Attorney & Counselor at Law

Attorney Ricky Anderson

Attorney Ricky Anderson

w w w . a t t o r n e y r i c k y a n d e r s o n . c o m r i c k y @ a t t o r n e y r i c k y a n d e r s o n . c o m TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

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C.J. Eaden 2016 SUPER P&E

ligence. In addition, Eaden gives credit to having phenomenal mentors and role models, such as his uncle, U.S. Army Lt. Col. Bill Deramus and former investment banker, Vincent W. Beale, Sr. Eaden understands the importance of personal development, leadership, and teamwork. He recognizes that in order to have what you want in life, you must speak it and seek it, while helping others.

Eaden says, “There’s an easy formula to success. Surround yourself with other successful people who are smart and hungry! Be persistent, consistent, disciplined, urgent, and excited!” Furthermore, Eaden believes acknowledgement and recognition of leaders and team players, both past and present, are paramount.

Eaden specifically mentions Emmanuel Bernstein, Barry Donalson, C. Anthony Harris, Cedrick Harris, Lisa Marie Carter, and Maritza Willis, as some of the individuals who have helped him build his solid foundation that grows globally.

Eaden is a devoted son. He is the proud father of 5 children, Brittany, SaShay, Juanesha, Jordan, and Justin, who are all acclaimed professional business owners currently in the making!

C.J. Eaden CEO/President

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.J. Eaden is a native Houstonian, who is a successful entrepreneur and network marketing professional.

His success allows him to serve as a mentor, coach, and international team builder. Eaden has been a savvy, self-employed businessman since the mid 1990s, when he discovered that one of the keys to wealth building is business ownership.

Based on timing and opportunity, Eaden has excelled in many industries, including healthcare, technology, and finance.

Now due to the emerging ongoing global growth of baby boomers all over the 64

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CJ Eaden, Inc. 713-539-5694 www.CJEaden.com

world, health and wellness is his latest successful venture, especially with antiaging, skincare, and nutritional products.

Eaden says, “For years, baby boomers have been a driving force in the economy.

Now, for the most part, they want to look good, feel good, live longer, love longer, and make more money doing it.”

As a proud graduate of both Lamar High School and Texas Southern University, Eaden gives credit to his mother, Dr. O’letha Eaden, as being a major reason why he has performed at such a high level. Eaden says she instilled in him at an early age, a strong belief in faith and the importance of education and intel-

TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

2/23/2016 11:58:24 AM

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Dr. J Thomas Smith 2016 SUPER P&E

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Thomas Smith is an attorney in private practice with principal offices in Houston, Texas. His practice focuses on naturalization, family, entertainment, sports, business and academic visas. Other services include IRS tax problem resolution, Chapter 7 bankruptcy, transactional matters, and personal injury.

Smith is especially sensitive to reuniting families. His maternal grandmother was an immigrant who was born in England, lived in Cuba and Puerto Rico and eventually immigrated to the United States Virgin Islands. He often reflects on her stories of adventure and hardship as an immigrant, as he works to unite families and bring employers and global talent together.

He has worked on behalf of students seeking to change their non-immigrant status and citizens desiring to bring their fiancés and spouses to the United States.

He has also represented victims of domestic abuse and clients in removal/ deportation hearings and those seeking asylum. He can assist entertainers or support staff members in the entertainment industry who need legal assistance 66

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with immigration to the United States or - Barbara Jordon Chapter. green cards for their family members.

He has been interviewed on KROI/News Attorney Smith helps everyday people 92.1 FM, KCOH-AM, KPVU-FM, KIAH-TV with their tax problems. But, celebri- 39, HCC-TV, and other media outlets loties and entertainers have tax problems cally and across the country. He is availtoo. Most taxpayers have relatively fixed able to speak before bar associations, incomes so, their tax obligations don’t community and trade groups on a numfluctuate much. However, entertainers ber of topics. He is host of “Sunday Mornoften have very large incomes that typi- ing Live,” on KMJQ/Majic 102.1, Radio cally vary wildly from year-to-year. This One – Houston. He is the author of “The is a perfect formula for tax trouble that Secret to a New Life” (Xlibris). His latest can affect even the most successful en- book, “Open Your Mind to Success,” will tertainers. The famous or once famous be released mid-year. His CD, “Panic to could lose their mansions, fancy cars Power: Swift and Simple Speaking Strateand high end lifestyles, unless they are gies Anyone Can Use,” will be released in rescued by a successful song that puts the second quarter of 2016. them back in the black. Some choose to pay their mortgage or invest in their next Education & Credentials: project, rather than pay their estimated J.D., Texas Southern University Thurquarterly income taxes to the IRS as the • good Marshall School of Law law requires.

• Ph.D., Behavioral Science, University of Whether dealing with everyday people San Jose (Costa Rica) or a well-known celebrity, Attorney Smith • Psy.D., Psychology, California Coast can assist with understanding complex University IRS notices and forms. He can help pro- • D.Min Counseling, American Christian tect assets and property from seizure or College and Seminary lien. He assists clients with legal, “back • M.S. Counseling, Vermont College of Fine Arts tax” settlement solutions, such as ofB.S., Liberal Studies/Communications, fer in compromise where you pay less • University of the State of New York than the total back tax owed or innocent spouse relief. He can negotiate for reasonable collection options, such as in- Bar Admissions: stallment agreements, which can give up • District of Columbia, Georgia, Kansas, and Tennessee to five years to pay. The Immigration Law United States District Courts for the Center/Federal Law Center of Attorney J • Northern, Southern and Eastern Districts Thomas Smith is available to consult you of Texas about your legal needs.

• Northern District of Georgia His present and past professional affili- • District of Kansas ations include: the Houston Lawyers As- • Georgia Court of Appeals sociation, the American Bar Association, • The United States Court of Appeals for the National Association of Consumer the Eleventh Circuit Bankruptcy Attorneys, the National As- • The United States Supreme Court sociation of Criminal Defense Lawyers, the International Association of Enter- J Thomas Smith, J.D., Ph.D. tainment Lawyers, the National Bar As- Law Offices of J Thomas Smith, J.D., Ph.D. sociation, the American Immigration Law- Communications Address: yers Association, the Association of Trial 14403 Walters Road, Unit 681113 Lawyers of America, the Federal Bar As- Houston, TX 77268-6045 sociation, the Houston Bar Association, 713-529-9372 info@JThomasSmithLaw.com and the Better Business Bureau National www.JThomasSmithLaw.com Panel of Consumer Arbitrators. He is a www.JThomasSmithSpeaks.com member of Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity www.PanicToPower.com

TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

2/23/2016 11:58:29 AM

d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

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Kelley L. Lavallais 2016 SUPER P&E

of pharmacies, including CVS/Caremark, Ancillary Health, Eckerd Drugs, Spring Branch Hospital, San Jacinto Methodist Hospital, and Strawberry Family Drug & Pharmacy. Her desire was to experience both sides of the business and to learn as much as possible, because she had a dream to own and operate her own pharmacy. After moving from the retail to the hospital pharmacy arena, Lavallais was afforded the opportunity to make her dream come true, and she purchased Strawberry Family Drug & Pharmacy, where she worked and was lead pharmacist.

Lavallais is the recipient of the 2015 dmars.com Top 50 Black Health, Medical and Wellness Professionals Awards has been recognized by the City of Pasadena for her community involvement and partnership with the co-op program at Sam Rayburn High School that provides internships for potential pharmacy technicians.

With her involvement with the schools, Lavallais has assisted numerous students in taking and passing the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam.

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elley L. Lavallais is from Port Arthur, Texas, and she is a pharmacist and the owner of Strawberry Family Drug & Pharmacy. She has been practicing for 26 years, but at a young age she knew her calling was in the medical field. While attending DeBakey High School for Health Professions, she was introduced to pharmacy at Hermann Memorial Hospital. Lavallais received her

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Bachelor of Science degree in Pharmacy from Texas Southern University.

Attending Texas Southern University afforded her the opportunity to graduate in the same commencement program with her mother, who received her MBA. Her aspirations and entrepreneurial spirit have always led her to be her own person striving for excellence.

After graduating from Texas Southern University, Lavallais worked in a variety

Lavallais believes in serving her community, participating in health fairs, where she provides Medicare and Medicaid consultations. She has received grants from Houston and Pasadena for her business and community initiatives. She is a member of the Ensemble Theatre Guild, the Texas Pharmacy Association, the American Pharmacists Association, the National Community Pharmacists Association, and the Salvation Army in Pasadena, Texas. Lavallais has two siblings, is the proud parent of two children, and her mom is one of her most influential motivators. Lavallais also received her EMBA from Texas Women’s University. She is also an active member of Brentwood Baptist Church.

Kelley L. Lavallais Owner and Pharmacist Strawberry Family Drug & Pharmacy 1802 Strawberry Pasadena, TX 77502 713-740-9033

TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

2/23/2016 11:58:34 AM

d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

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Captain Reginald E. McKamie, USN (Retired) 2016 SUPER P&E

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aptain Reginald E. McKamie is Board Certified by Texas Board of Legal Specialization in Personal Injury Trial Law and has achieved the AV Rating in the “Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory,” one of America’s most exclusive directories of lawyers. To achieve this prestigious distinction, Attorney McKamie has been designated by his colleagues to be preeminent in his field.

A member of the U.S. Navigation Safety Advisory Council, Captain McKamie was appointed to the Council by two U. S. Secretaries of Transportation. He was a Board Member of the National Academy of Science Transportation Research Board in Washington, D.C. Captain McKamie received a B.S. from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, Kings Point, New York; an MBA from the University of Southern California; and a J.D. from the University of Houston, where he was a member of Phi Delta Phi Legal Fraternity. Captain McKamie practices primarily in the area of maritime personal injury and collision cases. In 1991, as lead counsel for the Port of Houston in a case involving a major maritime casualty and oil spill in Galveston Bay, he successfully argued in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Texas, in Golnay Barqe Company, et al., v. M/T Shinoussa, et al., that the Port of Houston, as a governmental entity, was conveyed a proprietary interest by the legislature in the waters where the oil spill occurred and, therefore, had a claim for economic damages to the port. This case was considered by the Court a case of first impression for the Fifth Circuit and is reported in American Maritime Cases. While a graduate student at the University of Southern California, McKamie worked as an Assistant Marine Underwriter with the Insurance Company of North America. He has an Unlimited Master Mariner License and is a licensed as a Certified Public Accountant.

Company, where he held the positions of Assistant Fleet Manning Supervisor, a position that dealt with personnel and labor issues, and Senior Financial Specialist, a position that focused primarily on the analysis of the financial and operating results of Exxon Shipping Company.

During his seagoing career, he served as Captain of several ships and received the Meritorious Service medal as Captain in the U.S. Navy. In 1986, after graduation While a law student at the University of from law school, he served as Captain Houston, he gained valuable business of the S/S Exxon North Slope, S/S Exxon experience working for Exxon Shipping Philadelphia and the S/S Exxon Benicia.

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Captain McKamie was named to SuperLawyers by Texas Monthly magazine in 2013 and 2014. He is a 2015 recipient of the d-mars.com Super P&E Award. He is an advisor to SHAPE Community Center and serves as advisor to other organizations in the Houston community.

Captain Reginald E. McKamie, USN (Retired) Law Office of Reginald E. McKamie, Sr., P.C. 1210 Antoine Drive Houston, Texas 77055 713-465-2889 www.mckamie.com

TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

2/23/2016 11:58:38 AM

d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

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Frederick Barksdale 2016 SUPER P&E

San Antonio, Austin, and Dallas by over 50%, leading to over an $8 million growth in sales. He provides support to account managers, project managers, designers, and project coordinators, totaling approximately 20 people for the purpose of facilitating customer satisfaction. His efforts have maintained relationships and memberships with such organizations as Greater Houston Partnership, Houston Minority Business Development Council, regional and national councils, as well as local, state, and national purchasing groups, in order to develop new business, new associations, and company exposure.

Barksdale’s professional affiliations and community involvement includes: • Houston Minority Supplier Development Council • Academia in Motion • Houston Community College – Minority Male Initiative Program • Katy Economic Development Council • Board of the Greater Houston Black Chamber of Commerce • Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. Frederick Barksdale Business Development Manager

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rederick Barksdale received his BS from Indiana University. He has extensive comprehensive experience in sales, marketing, and administrative management, within a variety of business environments.

He has effective relationship-building skills with multiple audiences that are product/service oriented. His excellent communication skills have made him a great success, currently serving as the Business Development Manager of Facility Interiors, Inc. 72

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With over 40 years of experience in customer development, relationship building, and industry knowledge to the marketplace, Barksdale leads Facility Interiors’ efforts in developing new key accounts and relationships, as well as nurturing existing ones, to sell the company’s product lines and services. Because of the professionalism directed to this position, business has been expanded to service educational, healthcare, and general business organizations to establish total optimization of their bottom line.

6801 Portwest Drive Houston, TX 77024 713-585-7870 fbarksdale@fiinc.com www.facilityinteriors.com

Barksdale’s leadership has increased customer minority spending in Houston,

TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

We provide furniture solutions for collaborative workspaces.

Seating . Workstations . Moveable Offices . Lounge Furniture . Files & Storage . Tables . Raised Flooring

Facility Interiors

The ultimate in Contract Furniture Solutions

Frederick Barksdale (713) 585-7870 6801 Portwest Drive Suite 100 Houston, TX 77024 WWW. FACILITYINTERIORS.COM

HOUSTON

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AUSTIN

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TUCSON

| OKLAHOMA CITY TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

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TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

2/23/2016 11:58:44 AM

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Alfred Evine Rucker 2016 TOP P&E

process guarantees any client a smooth transition from jail to freedom within a matter of minutes. We want to take the tension off an already stressful situation,” says Rucker.

Midtown Bail Bonds offers services for traffic bail bonds, non-arrest bail bonds, misdemeanor bail bonds, immigration bail bonds, and so much more. Worried if you have any warrants on your record? Don’t fret. Midtown Bail Bonds also helps with background checks for absolutely free.

Rucker says, “Our mission is to be focused, provide 100% customer satisfaction, and provide fast reliable and confidential bail services to our citizens during their time of unfortunate circumstances.”

Rucker’s business success doesn’t stop there, as he is the co-owner of one of the hottest new venues,

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lfred Evine Rucker is the quintessential image of a self-made man. Rucker’s professional career began in the automobile industry, where for 10 years he was known in Houston as an automotive finance guru.

He eventually rose to the highest levels of finance management in the industry. This coupled with his motivating and insightful spirit prompted Rucker to seek and pursue opportunities which would allow him to work with families in developing their dream of homeownership. To that end, in 2002, Rucker ventured out and established Rucker Group Mortgage, a Mortgage Services & Brokerage Company which specializes in providing clients, from a variety of socio-economic backgrounds, with the prompt and efficient loan processing aimed at obtaining the lowest possible rates. In 2006 Mr. Rucker 76

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Dolce Ultra Lounge and Bistro. This establishment in the prominent Northwest area has delicious cuisine in an upscale ultra-lounge atmosphere.

Rucker is a person whose business success is a testament to the basic tenets of established Midtown Bail Bonds, which is entrepreneurship, hard work, fortitude, one of the leading bail bond companies and a commitment to excellence. in Houston. Rucker’s business endeavors have put him at the top of the list as one Alfred Evine Rucker of the top minority business owners in Entrepreneur Houston.

Midtown Bail Bond has just announced the opening of an additional location in Pearland, TX. Now with 4 sites in the Greater Houston area, this bail bond service is getting people out of jail quicker than the speed of lighting and turning someone’s horrible night to a hopeful day. The new Pearland location, open 7 days a week, is home to an area that is constantly growing in population. Rucker is known as “The King of Bonds” and he wants Midtown Bail Bonds accessible to anyone who finds themselves in a bind and promises to provide astonishing customer service to every client. “Midtown Bail Bonds allows everyone to feel comfortable. Our knowledge of the bonding

Midtown Bail Bonds (4 Locations) Houston, Texas Richmond, Texas Missouri City, Texas Pearland, Texas midtownbailbonds.com Dolce Ultra Lounge and Bistro 18039 Farm to Market 529 Cypress, TX 77433 www.dolcehouston.com 832-427-1526

TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

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Anthony Newton

2016 TOP P&E

would receive their certificate, there was great concern regarding student loans. In order to provide students with quality and relevant career training, certification and eliminate any issue of student debt, he decided to channel his company solely to high schools.

Newton continues to increase Kaduceus’ profitability. The company has been in the black for 10 consecutive years, which is pretty impressive for a small business.

Kaduceus provides the experienced and compassionate instructors with everything they need to facilitate a lab, which is referred to as the “classroom makeover.” Newton takes pride in the fact that Kaduceus is engaging students. He does not want students robbed of the hands-on experience, and the students appreciate Kaduceus’ programs.

Anthony Newton President and CEO Kaduceus Holdings, Inc. 281-447-4200 info@kaduceusinc.com www.kaduceusinc.com

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hen it comes to training the next generation of medical experts, Anthony Newton has raised the bar and set a new trend when it comes to career training. Newton is a national educational consultant and expert. Kaduceus Holdings, Inc. (Kaduceus) is his career training company that has healthcare programs that are being used around the country.

Newton realized that without effective communication, he could not be a successful business owner. He recalls walking around with a thesaurus to look for 78

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Though Newton is now reaping the benefits of his labor, it did not come without struggles, and he gives all the glory to God. There was a dark point in the beginning, when he was homeless for 6 months and living in his office after losing his only contract. Although it was a difficult time, he did not waver from giving to God during his moment of homelessness. Kaduceus has grown over the years. Kaduceus started with 1 school district, and it now has contracts with over 200 school districts in 7 states (TX, CA, IL, NC, NM, SC, and VA), and there are plans for expansion. Year to date, the company has grossed over 10 million in revenue since they have been in business. Newton is extremely proud of words to replace the simple ones he was the Kaduceus family and their hard work using, so he would sound more intelli- and dedication that has made the comgent. He understood that without effec- pany what it is today. tive communication, no one would follow Newton has received awards and recoghim as a leader. He is a shining example nition for the Kaduceus programs and of how the power of effective communica- curricula, but for him it is not about action can create business success. colades. Newton is honored that he can provide students with a quality curriculum Working for companies like Kaplan and and certification, without the burden of Everest, he learned first-hand how edu- a student loan. Kaduceus is providing a cating and career training changes lives. necessary foundation for the young genHe believed and still believes in what Ka- eration to achieve goals. Through Kaduplan, Everest and similar companies are ceus, Newton is equipping students and doing to assist in helping adults obtain ca- laying a foundation for future healthcare reer certifications. However, the problem professionals to achieve success, whatNewton identified was that after students ever path they choose.

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

Katrina Patrick 2016 TOP P&E

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atrina Patrick is consistently being recognized for her success in the legal profession. With thriving law practices in two states (Texas and Pennsylvania), she is one of the most acclaimed attorneys in the area because of her professionalism and high standards when it comes to practicing law. At The Law Offices of Katrina Patrick, she fights for your dignity at work so you can have peace at home.

With 19 years of employment law (e.g., fighting discrimination based on race, age, gender, disability, religion and the like) experience, The Law Offices of Katrina Patrick have been busy handling claims against:

• HOUSTON INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT • FLUOR DANIEL • XEROX • FIRST EDUCATORS CREDIT UNION • M.D. ANDERSON CANCER CENTER • DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS • EXXONMOBIL • DENNY’S RESTAURANT • COMPUSA • UNITED PARCEL SERVICE • RANDALL’S GROCERY • HEB GROCERY • GERLAND’S GROCERY • 3-D OFFICE SUPPLY • CITY OF HOUSTON • ALDINE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT • STRACHAN SHIPPING • OHMSTEDE, LTD. • SHIPLEY’S DO-NUTS • JOHN STEVEN MOSTYN, P.C. (LAW FIRM) • GRACO INTERESTS, INC. • THE DETERING COMPANY • TEXAS PARKS & WILDLIFE • BUREAU OF FEDERAL PRISONS • AMERICAN FREIGHTWAYS • HOMELAND SECURITY • SCHLUMBERGER OILFIELD • U.S. POSTAL SERVICE • SHERATON HOTEL • METRO • FISERV • CHRISTUS ST. CATHERINE HOSPITAL

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• THE HAND CENTER • DRESSER-RAND • AKER KVAERNER • HALLIBURTON • ALFA LAVAL • UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON • EISAI, INC. • NAVASOTA I.S.D. • KATY I.S.D • LAMAR C.I.S.D. • L&W SUPPLY CORP. • BP AMERICA PRODUCTION CO. • INTERNATIONAL SEAL CO. • BAYSHORE MEDICAL CENTER • PATTERSON DRILLING • FUGRO • NOVO NORDISK • PASADENA TANK CORP. • VICTORIA MACK SALES & SERVICES • DROUBI BROTHERS • DIXIE OFFSHORE TRANSPORTATION • BEST BUY • APACHE CORP. • THE CITY OF VICTORIA, TEXAS • KINSEL MOTORS, INC. • DICKINSON I.S.D. • THE CITY OF VICTORIA • DSW, INC. • FORD MOTOR COMPANY • WHATABURGER RESTAURANTS • ITT EDUCATIONAL SERVICES • BAE SYSTEMS, INC. • JACOBS FIELD SERVICES • REDI CARPET, INC. • REGIS CORPORATION • PRAIRIE VIEW A&M UNIVERSITY • UNITED HEALTHCARE SERVICES, INC. • MEMORIAL HERMANN TEXAS MEDICAL CENTER • HAPPY KIDS PRESCHOOL • NABORS COMPLETION AND PRODUCTION SERVICES • NORDSTROM • PHILLIPS 66 • CAMERON INTERNATIONAL • MAMBO SEAFOOD • CONNIE’S SEAFOOD • WRIGHT MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY • TRANSOCEAN OFFSHORE • WAL-MART • CITY OF LEAGUE CITY • HOUSTON METHODIST • BAYLOR SCOTT & WHITE HEALTH • OFFICE MAX • MESA AIRLINES • SODEXO • MAJESTY STAFFING, INC. • BELMONT VILLAGE HUNTERS CREEK • HOUSTON COMMUNITY COLLEGE • CITY OF FT. WORTH • B&W ENERGY SERVICES • DOWNHOLE TECHNOLOGY LLC • KITZ CORPORATION OF AMERICA • KILGORE COLLEGE • THE DOW CHEMICAL COMPANY • DIVERSICARE HEALTHCARE SERVICES • LAZER CONSTRUCTION COMPANY • HOME DEPOT • GATEWAY FRONTLINE SERVICES

• Interviewee: Employment Law Rights, Straight Talk With Lloyd Gite KTSU 90.9 (February 2011) • Interviewee: “Are you being secretly recorded at work?” ABCNEWS.COM • Featured in H Texas Magazine’s Top Women in Business (January 2011) • Fellow of the Texas Bar Foundation (outstanding professional service and notable contributions to the system of justice and the people of Texas) • Speaker: Textual Harassment, Channel 13 ABC, (September 2009) • Speaker: Retaliation, 17th Annual Labor And Employment Law Conference, The University of Texas School of Law, (May 2010) • Speaker: Voices of Colour - Women and the Law, University of Houston Clear Lake, (Spring 2009) • Speaker: Employment Law, NAACP, (February 2008) • Speaker: Building Your Professional Brand For Success In Any Legal Environment (Downtown Group, October 2007) • Co-Planner and Speaker: Employment Law Conference, Texas Southern University’s Thurgood Marshall School of Law, (April 2006) • Speaker: Exploring Careers, Alice Johnson Jr. High, (Career Day 2005) • Speaker: Starting and Building a Plaintiff’s Employment Practice, 12th Annual Labor And Employment Law Conference, The University of Texas School of Law, (May 2005) • Speaker: What Every Lawyer Needs To Know About Employment Law, Fort Bend County Bar Association, (March 2005) Katrina Patrick is the real deal. The only thing she over looks is the Galleria in Houston, Texas.

ACTIVITIES AND AFFILIATIONS • Speaker: Employment Rights & Resolutions, EEOC Taps Seminar (August 2011) • Interviewee: “Boss, please talk into my cell phone” Houston Chronicle (April 2011) • Speaker: “Ethics & the Job Search for International Women” University of Houston Clear Lake, (March 2011)

Katrina Patrick Attorney at Law & Owner Law Offices of Katrina Patrick Office in Houston, TX Office in Philadelphia, PA 713-796-8218 katrina@voiceoftheemployees.com www.katrinapatricklaw.com

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Hardy Jones, III 2016 TOP P&E

perienced construction man-agers to provide continuity and direction throughout the life of the project.

Hardy and his staff takes pride in their extensive experience working collaboratively with design/build projects to identify and plan accordingly to make the client experience and process flawless. The depth of Hardy’s experience is matched by his meticulous standards and the company’s core strength. Hardy, through Imani Quality Concepts provides the capability, experience, and resources needed, while maintaining the personal responsiveness and commitment to excellent service that is para-mount to the success of all projects he manages.

Hardy Jones, III President Imani Quality Concepts, LLC 3115 Washington Blvd.

Beaumont, TX 77705 409-842-4700 hardy@imaniqualityconcepts.com www.imaniqualityconcepts.com

I

mani Quality Concepts, LLC, is a general contracting firm founded

by Hardy Jones, III in 2006. Jones’ roots are in Beaumont, Texas, and he was inspired to start the company after seeing his father, Hardy Jones, Jr., build their family home. Witnessing his father in this project allowed him to see how con-struction can bring employment opportunities for family members and the community. Over the years, the firm has grown from small remodeling projects to new construction and commercial pro-jects. Imani Quality Concepts provides a full array of residential and commercial construction services and has collaborated with both private and public sectors.

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Hardy is well-known in the area for the quality services that Imani Quality Concepts provides. The company offers services in the areas of construction management, disaster recovery services, and de-sign/build solutions to meet and exceed client needs and expectations.

The company’s capabilities include, but are not limited to rough/finish carpentry, drywall, painting, and fire restoration.

Imani Quality Concepts has gained a much-deserved reputation in the industry for being stellar when it comes to quality, schedule, and consistent dedication to client satisfaction. The Imani Quality Con-cepts’ construction process begins with the assignment of one of their ex-

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

Dr. Charles Kinuthia 2016 TOP P&E

to give back through his company, striving to make a difference in our local communities and around the world. He has partnered with local schools, civic organizations, service clubs, and other nonprofit organizations to help meet the needs of the underprivileged. For every individual or family member you refer to One Stop Tax and for whom they file a tax return, they make a donation to the organization of your choice. This allows them to sponsor programs that aid the needy and underprivileged in our local communities and countries around the world. Dr. Kinuthia believes that together we can make a difference to make a positive difference in the lives of many.

In addition to his responsibilities as an entrepreneur and business owner, he is the Chairperson of the Lone Star College’s Business Management Advisory Board, one of the largest colleges in Texas USA. He also serves as an Executive Board Member and Treasurer of KCM, a nonprofit organization dedicated to offering financial assistance to low income.

Dr. Kinuthia recently launched his social enterprise, Hope 631, a global nonprofit dedicated to alleviating poverty through education and the empowering of small businesses, where he serves as VicePresident. He was recently featured on front cover of Franchising USA, and in Entrepreneur magazine and the Wall Street Journal.

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ecently recognized as one of the fastest growing franchisors in the U.S., Dr. Charles Kinuthia was born and raised in Kenya, East Africa, spending time in Australia as well as Finland. After completing his studies on a full scholarship to Helsinki University, he relocated to Houston, TX, from Australia in 2006. In 2006, he founded One Stop Tax Services Inc., a national franchise income tax preparation company.

One Stop Tax Services takes the worry out of your tax preparation. They are here to serve you and they take pride in their customer service, without the customer, they know they would not exist. Dr. Kinuthia knows that the customers are # 1. Through this company, Dr. Kinuthia is able to help countless clients with a variety of returns, from the very simple, to more complex returns. He takes pride in the fact that his tax professionals have completed an income tax course that covers over 60 hours of tax training.

Dr. Kinuthia serves as the CEO of the Dr. Kinuthia has also dedicated One Stop One Stop Tax Franchise Systems, Inc., Tax to giving back to society in a great with over thirty (30) locations nationwide. way. Dr. Kinuthia has made it his mission 84

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Dr. Kinuthia is a husband to his beautiful wife, Grace Kinuthia. He is a speaker, educator, mentor, leader, and entrepreneur.

The same drive and purpose that took him from the dirt floor of a hut in Kenya to making dreams come true for others, is the message he has committed his life to sharing. Dr. Kinuthia enjoys reading, playing the piano, family, and volunteering his time to others.

Dr. Charles Kinuthia CEO One Stop Tax Franchise Systems, Inc. 7322 S.W. Freeway, Suite 806 Houston, TX 77074 855-408-2937 www.onestoptax.com

TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

“ THE BEST

CHOICE IN FRANCHISING ” Dr. Charles Kinuthia

CEO One Stop Tax Franchise Systems, Inc.

WHY CHOOSE ONE STOP TAX FRANCHISE? One Stop Tax is a professional tax preparation services provider, offering personal and business income tax services catered to the low and middle income brackets.

Recession Resistant

Ongoing Training

High Return on Investment

Year-Round Support

Low Start-Up Cost

Multi-Unit Opportunities Available

Proven Marketing Plan

Minimal Real Estate Needed

Prime Territories Available

Work Only 4 Months of the Year

Proven Business Plan

Site Selection Assistance

NO TAX OR ACCOUNTING Experience Necessary

For Help Call Now!

U.S. CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS

1-855-408-2937

7322 S.W FREEWAY, SUITE 806 HOUSTON TX 77074

ONESTOPTAX.com F (281) 763-2722

FRANCHISE@ONESTOPTAX.COM TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

Stephanie Green Lee 2016 TOP P&E

S

tephanie Green Lee has been an insurance agent in the Clear Lake area of Houston since 2007. She offers insurance and financial and retirement services for individuals and small businesses. She assists families and businesses with protecting their assets and building financial stability.

Her specialty is in Key-Person Business Policies and Educational Funds.

Stephanie is a Charter Member of the Smithsonian National Museum of African-American History and Culture. She is a Board Member for Project Church, a partnership between MD Anderson Hospital and Windsor Village United Methodist Church. Stephanie also advocates on behalf of numerous organizations supporting breast cancer survivors, and she

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sponsors youth athletic programs in her area. Being an active supporter of the YMCA is also part of Stephanie’s community involvement.

Stephanie earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from the University of Houston and a Master of Education degree from Prairie View A&M University.

She possesses a (Series 6 & 63) Registered Representative license with State Farm Insurance, where she has been an agent for almost 10 years, assisting families and businesses throughout the state of Texas.

Prior to joining the insurance and financial services industry, Stephanie worked for the Houston Independent School District for 15 years as a high school teacher, school administrator, project director, and executive assistance to the Superin-

tendent of Schools. As Project Director, she wrote and assisted in the implementation of a 15 million dollar grant for the district to reform high schools. Stephanie also served as an assistant principal at both Windsor Village Elementary School and Bellaire High School.

Stephanie is the proud mother of a high school son, Nicholas, and she resides in the Pearland area.

Stephanie Lee Agent Stephanie Lee Insurance Agency State Farm Insurance 1841 El Dorado Blvd.

Houston, Texas 77062 281-488-7533

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

Kevin Murray 2016 TOP P&E

from his experiences as a former owner of a mortgage company and former fee attorney for a title company. Further, Murray’s diverse real estate experiences allow him to assist the following clients: property owners and property managers; developers, builders and contractors; realtors and title companies; real estate investment trusts (REITS); residential and commercial property associations; and buyers and sellers in varied transactions and disputes, ranging from multi-million dollar commercial properties to singlefamily residences.

Murray received his undergraduate degree from Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey and his law degree from Texas Southern University, Thurgood Marshall School of Law, in Houston, Texas.

K

evin Murray practices in all areas of civil litigation, with a high concentration in personal injury, employment, and real estate law. In the past, Murray created a strategic relationship with KPRC Channel 2 Houston and THELAW.TV in an effort to inform the general public regarding employment law.

Murray is admitted to practice law in the United States Supreme Court, the United States Tax Court, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, the United States District Court for the Southern, Northern, Eastern, and Western Districts of Texas, and all Texas State Courts.

Murray represents individuals who have been seriously injured, as well as the families of individuals who have been killed because of someone else’s negligence. Specifically, Mr. Murray represents individuals in the areas of auto accidents, defective drugs, defective products, workplace accidents, maritime accidents, OSHA refinery process safety management compliance, petrochemical, and 88

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Murray is affiliated with the following organizations: • Central Care Integrated Health Services (Chairman, Board of Directors) refinery accidents.

Murray assists corporate clients with business transactions and commercial litigation. He represents clients in matters involving Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the Fair Labor Standards Act, the Family and Medical Leave Act, the Texas Commission on Human Rights Act, the Texas Payday Act, and Chapter 451 of the Texas Labor Code (workers’ compensation retaliation).

Murray also provides advice to clients regarding severance agreements, covenants not to compete, non-solicitation agreements, and confidentiality agreements. In addition, he represents clients before the American Arbitration Association, JAMS, and administrative agencies, including the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the Department of Labor, and the Texas Workforce Commission - Civil Rights Division.

Murray’s real estate expertise originates

• World Affairs Council (Council Cabinet Member) • National Bar Association • American Association for Justice • National Employment Lawyers Association • Houston Lawyers Association • Houston Trial Lawyers Association • Houston Bar Association • Texas Young Professionals • Houston Young Professionals • 100 Black Men • Greater Houston Builders Association • Texas Association of Builders • National Association of Home Builders • Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Kevin Murray Attorney Kevin Murray LLC 1776 Yorktown, Ste. 600 Houston, Texas 77056 713-355-5500 www.murrlaw.com

TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

Eric D. Goodwine 2016 TOP P&E

E

ric D. Goodwine is known for building and establishing business relationships in the Houston market. Eric is employed with Comcast in the Comcast Business Department as a Senior Account Executive, where he specializes in prospecting and acquiring new business customers who need Fiber, Internet, VOIP Services, Phone Hardware, and Cable TV Services. He has worked as a business to business sales specialist for companies like MCI, Sprint, Verizon, and the Houston Chronicle.

Eric has worked for the local city government as a Constituent Services Director for Houston City Council District B and worked as a personal concierge to many prominent business executives across the country. After realizing his calling is to serve people, he started his own personal concierge service, Solutions 2 Services.

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Eric is active in the community and volunteers his time to many organizations.

He is a member of the NAACP Houston Branch and has served as an executive committee member for the Missouri City and Houston Branch. He has also served as an executive officer for the Houston Business and Professional Men’s Club.

Eric is a Veteran of the Unites States Army and a former paratrooper. He has also served as the Colonel’s orderly at Ft. Sill Oklahoma before he received an Honorable Discharge from the Armed Services.

Eric has been recognized as one of the top producers at Comcast Business within the West Division. He was awarded the Rookie of the Year Pace Setter’s Award in 2014 from the Comcast West Division.

He has also been consistent in receiving the monthly Quota Club Award. He has been recognized in the Accelerator Club and the 200 Club for top sales production. Most recently, he was awarded the

prestigious Head 2 Head Award for Top Sales in 2015 in the Houston Region.

A Houston, Texas native, Eric is dedicated to serving his community, as an active member of Higher Dimension Church. He also enjoys volunteering for the 18th Congressional District of Texas as a volunteer driver. He has an 18 year old daughter, Erica Goodwine, who is a freshmen at the University of Houston. He loves reading, watching college basketball, and spending time with his family.

Eric D. Goodwine Senior Business Account Executive Comcast Business 8590 West Tidwell Houston, Texas 77040 832-819-9204 ericd_goodwine@cable.comcast.com www.business.comcast.com

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Isiah Carey 2016 TOP P&E

a part of that community. Currently a reporter with Fox 26 news in Houston, Isiah has remained true to that way of thinking by giving back in Houston. After a senior citizen wrote the journalist about being extremely hot in Houston, Isiah decided to raise money on his own to provide that senior with an air conditioning unit. But when he realized how great the need was he decided to take his campaign a step further. Isiah eventually raised enough to provide more than 40 senior citizens in Houston with air conditioning units.

As a journalist, Isiah has also helped a group of Vietnamese nationals gain their freedom from what many described as a slave labor camp in Houston. He was recognized by the Vietnamese community with the ‘Life Saving’ award for his efforts to bring attention to the issue.

As a working reporter for the last 20+ years, Isiah has received a long list of awards and accolades, but he was most proud of his 2015 Emmy award for bringing attention to bullying in public schools. Isiah was also given a resolution by the Houston Independent School District for the report that is now being used as a teaching tool in some area schools.

He has also been given a proclamation for his own day in the city of Houston by former Mayor Bill White and Houston City Council member Wanda Adams. This is after Adams and Isiah brought attention to the homeless plight in the city by spending a night on the streets of Houston.

O

riginally from Baton Rouge, La., Isiah Carey caught the TV bug at a very young age.

In fact, he made his debut in front of the camera at the age of five, on a weekly local segment called “Thought for the Day” on WVLATV. But it wasn’t until 1978, when as a third-grade student, Isiah realized that he wanted to be a reporter on TV. That’s when a local television journalist spoke to his class inspiring Isiah to contact a Baton 92

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Rouge TV station and ask for a summer job. He got the job, and worked at that station every summer, for no credit, until he went away to college. In college, Isiah continued his pursuit of a broadcasting career. Before graduating from Southern University in Baton Rouge, he was already a news anchor and a reporter for the city’s WXOK-AM radio.

Isiah has always believed that a reporter should do more than just chronicle what happens in the community, but become

Isiah’s duties at KRIV don’t end with daily reporting, but he also has a daily segment called “The Isiah Factor” as well as his television show, The Isiah Factor Uncensored which airs Friday nights on Fox 26 from 9 to 10PM(c).

Isiah Carey Media Personality KRIV Fox 26 4261 Southwest Freeway Houston, TX 77027 www.fox26houston.com

TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

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Juanita A. Jackson 2016 TOP P&E

uanita A. Jackson is a proud product of the Houston public school system. She attended Madison High School, where she excelled academically and socially. After graduating with honors as senior class officer, Juanita attended the University of Alabama.

While at the University of Alabama, Juanita was very active in the Black Student Union and the Residential Life Association, receiving numerous awards and accolades. Juanita developed her leadership and management skills by being a resident advisor. After completing her BA in Criminal Justice, Juanita began graduate school and became the very first black graduate hall director of a historic residence hall at the once infamously segregated university. Juanita was quickly promoted to a staff position as Coordinator of Residential Life, overseeing the day-to-day operations and entire management of the largest residential area of the university.

In 1992, Juanita was hired by the University of Houston as Coordinator of Residential Life to manage their largest residential area. After a few years at the University of Houston, Juanita decided to leave her career in higher education management to attend law school. While in law school, Juanita juggled being a wife and mother, while working multiple jobs to support her family. Because of her determination and work ethic during law school, Juanita received numerous honors, including being on the National Mock Trial Team and the Board of Advocates.

Upon graduation from Thurgood Marshall School of Law, Juanita accepted a positon as Assistant Attorney General for the State of Texas. After a few years with the state agency, in 2001 Juanita opened her own law firm. With steady determination and hard work, her law practice began to prosper and Juanita became a well-respected fixture in the Harris County criminal courts. In 2011, she was asked to join the Harris County Public Defender’s Office.

Felony Trial Division, Juanita represents indigent citizens who are charged with serious crimes. She is truly dedicated to protecting and defending the rights of people entangled in the criminal justice system.

Juanita is also the creator, producer and a cast member of the new WEtv reality seAs Assistant Public Defender for the ries “Sisters in Law”.

Juanita A. Jackson Assistant Public Defender Harris County Public Defender’s Office 1201 Franklin Street, 13th Floor Houston, Texas 77002 713-368-0016 juanita.jackson@pdo.hctx.net harriscountypublicdefender.org

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Malorie Bailey-Massie

2016 TOP P&E

M

alorie Bailey-Massie, aka “Mal” is sister and assistant to The Real Housewives of Atlanta’s, Cynthia Bailey. Malorie was born and raised in Alabama. In 1989, she moved to Houston, TX, where she attended a well-renowned modeling School. Malorie went on to appear in numerous fashion, bridal, and hair shows.

After several years, Malorie realized that modeling was not her passion and began pursuing other interests. In 1992, she gave birth to her daughter, Madison.

In 2005, Mal married professional international basketball player, Chris Massie.

Over the course of the past 10 years, the couple has lived in many parts of the world -- Italy, Spain, Greece, Israel, Korea, Venezuela, Uruguay, and France, while maintaining their primary home in Texas.

In early 2011, Malorie launched her jewelry company, Mal’s Custom Jewelry. She has received awards for her company’s trendsetting pieces that have a bold and unique design. While Malorie’s jewelry line is designed for all fashion trendsetters, men, women, and children, she is especially proud of her jewelry raising awareness, being tailor-made for countless organizations, foundations, and worthy causes.

Malorie is a woman of many talents, and she wears many hats. Over the past 7 seasons of The Real Housewives of Atlanta, she has appeared as a regular. Malorie has also appeared on television, and she has been featured by several media outlets.

Malorie Bailey-Massie Owner Mal’s Custom Jewelry www.malscustomjewelry.com

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

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Dr. Shalondria Simpson 2016 TOP P&E

munity service. While at TSU, Dr. Simpson coordinated and lectured in various pharmaceutical courses in the therapeutic areas involving hypertension, hyperlipiedemia, diabetes, stroke, STD’s, coagulation disorders, and liver disease. There, she also became a part of the Internal Medicine Team as a Clinical Pharmacist at Park Plaza Hospital, where she taught pharmacy students the day to day operations as a clinical pharmacist.

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halondria Simpson, Pharm.D.’s journey as a pharmacist began with an initial curiosity in medicinal products. However, after obtaining her bachelor’s degree from the University of North Texas and a Doctorate of Pharmacy degree from Texas Southern University (TSU), her interest evolved into patient care, particularly in vulnerable populations.

Upon graduating from TSU in 2008, Dr. Simpson relocated to Dallas, Texas, to complete a pharmacy practice residency at Parkland Health & Hospital Systems.

During her residency, Dr. Simpson rotated through several departments throughout the hospital and outpatient clinics. However, she quickly found her niche in the Community Outpatient Health Care Centers, where she rotated through the various

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However, Dr. Simpson has always had an entrepreneur sprit at heart. So in 2013 she decided to step out on faith and launch her own pharmacy with eclectic ideas in mind for compounding medications. She envisioned her pharmacy returning to its roots of apothecary. Apothecary, as a profession, dates back to 2600 BC to ancient Babylon, which clay tablets were found with medical texts recording symptoms, the prescriptions, and the directions for compounding. From the 15th century to the 16th century, the apothecary gained the status of a skilled practitioner, but by the end of the 19th century, the medical professions had taken on their current institutional form, with defined roles for physicians and surgeons, and the role of the apothecary was more narrowly conceived as that of a pharmacist (dispensing chemist in British English). clinics positioned around Dallas County monitoring, educating, and counseling underserved patients on their medications and various disease states, including, but not limited to pediatric asthma, congestive heart failure, allergies, hypertension, diabetes, anticoagulation, HIV/ AIDS, and hyperlipidemia. While at Parkland Health & Hospital System, Dr. Simpson implemented individualized patient plans for disease state management, prevention, and progression.

After the successful completion of her residency, Dr. Simpson’s passion for education quickly led her into a dual position as pharmacist and professor at her alma mater, TSU. As she established her career in academia, she continued to focus on patient care through research, the education of future pharmacists, and com-

Today, Dr. Simpson owns and operates two successful compounding pharmacies, or as she likes to call them “Apothecary Stores,” Advance Compounding Pharmacy and GB Pharmacy. With her education and experience, she enjoys the freedom of practicing pharmacy “like back in the olden days,” by means of tailoring medications to individualized patient needs and valuing each of her patients as family.

Dr. Shalondria Simpson Pharmacist and Owner Advance Compounding Pharmacy 2646 South Loop West, Suite 330 Houston, TX 77054 713-585-6603 srspharm420@hotmail.com

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William H. Harrison 2016 TOP P&E

William H. Harrison Principal Consultant West Arlington Consulting Group 2100 West Loop South, Suite 900 Houston, Texas 77027 281-616-6760 www.waconsultgroup.com

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illiam H. Harrison is the Founder and Principal Consultant at West Arlington Consulting Group. West Arlington Consulting Group is a Veteran-owned boutique consulting firm specializing in Business Process Improvement, Management Consulting, and IT Project Management with offices in Houston, TX and Baltimore, MD. As the Principal Consultant and Founder of West Arlington, Will maintains a hands-on role which involves the dayto-day running of continuing client projects. His work involves directly dealing with clients to clearly understand their needs, and to provide possible solutions for the client’s consideration.

Some of West Arlington’s most recent clients include Comcast Corporation,

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Fannie Mae, and the D.C. Small Business Development Center at Howard University.

Will is a highly experienced, resultsdriven consultant, with over 15 years of experience, who has worked within a wide range of businesses and industries. Prior to starting West Arlington, Will’s career highlights include advising senior government officials at the FBI and Department of Defense on business process management, emerging technologies, and portfolio management of multi-million dollar budgets.

Will has led large-scale and complex change initiatives for a diverse array of companies, including Humana and Deloitte. Will was also a featured author in the 2013 edition of The Greater Baltimore Urban League’s 2013 State of Black Baltimore.

Will is most proud of his nine plus years

of service in the United States military.

He rose to the ranks of Non-Commissioned Officer in the US Army before receiving a commission in the United States Air Force. At the end of his service, Will obtained the rank of Captain.

Will’s biggest accomplishment in the military was taking part in a five day600 mile charity run from Atlanta, GA to Tampa, FL, helping raise over sixty thousand dollars for children of deceased war veterans.

Will is a native of South Carolina and in his spare time takes part in various nonprofit organizations. Will earned a bachelor’s degree in international business from Hawaii Pacific University and has recently completed an Executive MBA from the Sellinger School of Business and Management (Loyola University Maryland).

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Dr. Marilyn Parker 2016 TOP P&E

perintendent, principal, school counselor, teacher, experienced collegiate professor, and public speaker. She has practiced as a licensed therapist and clinical supervisor of LPC interns in private practice since 2006. As a public school educator with over 18 years of experience, she has served as a school administrator, district program specialist, instructional coach, school counselor, and teacher; and respectively, a collegiate professor for the past 14 years.

She obtained her doctorate in Executive Professional Leadership from the University of Houston in Houston, Texas, where she also received her LPC supervision certification. She received her Masters’ degrees in Curriculum and Instruction, Counseling, and Educational Administration, as well as her undergraduate degree in Finance and Psychology from Prairie View A&M University in Prairie View, Texas.

She is a continuing education provider for the Texas Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors, Texas Board of Social Workers Examiners, and the Texas Education Agency.

She has received numerous awards and recognition, including the YMCA Minority Achievers’ Award in 2012. She is a volunteer with the Houston Police Department Youth Police Advisory Council (YPAC), and she mentors young adults in the Houston area. She is a member of the Texas Counseling Association, the National Association of Professional Women (NAPW), the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD), and she is an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.

Dr. Marilyn Parker Counseling Network Group Professionals, LLC

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r. Marilyn Parker is a native of Port Arthur, Texas, where southern culture taught her to be humble and hospitable, but to know her worth. She exudes the epitome of effective leadership in all that she does to serve the needs of others. She thrives 100

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on her inspirational calling to challenge others to be empowered by knowing their worth, life path, and professional strengths that are vital to the fulfillment of divine purpose.

Dr. Parker is a Texas State Board Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) Supervisor, Texas State Board Certified Su-

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Mary L. Young 2016 TOP P&E

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product of private, catholic, and public schools, Mary breezes through life knowing her strength comes from on high. She graduated from high school at the age of 16 and already determined she would do something special with her life. She earned several degrees respectively and credits much of her success to her life-time coach from Prairie View A&M University, Barbara Jacket. As a four year Academic All American in Track & Field, she traveled around the world to places she thought only existed on television.

She is an advocate for education and believes every child, given the time, can learn. She landed her first full-time teaching assignment in 1991 at Ross Shaw Sterling Senior High School and has been in and around education ever since. As a college professor for over 16 years, she knows that the college life has changed.

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With almost 20 years of service with the Houston Police Department, she is no stranger to handling difficult situations, as well as herself through difficult circumstances. She has received accolades and awards and most recently received the Officer of the Year Award in 2014 and the Runner-Up Award in 2015 for her leadership and commitment in bridging the gap between law enforcement and the community it serves.

“Celebrity Cop” by her peers because of her personal friendships and involvement with athletes and celebrities. She is very modest, and when asked how she felt when she met and talked with Oprah, she simply replied, “I admire Ms. Winfrey and gravitate to her success and her ability to interact with people. She is amazing!”

If there was a scripture or quote that she could use to depict her life story, it would be this simple quote which reads, “Either write She is presently assigned to the South- something worth reading or do something west Patrol Division DRT/Community Ser- worth writing.” Mary believes everyone has vice Squad. Her primary duties include, a story to share about their journey in life, but are not limited to community service and no one can tell the story about you betpractices. She implements, enhances, ter than you. So make your life worth it. coordinates, and creates positive programs and events throughout the South- Mary L. Young west Houston community for children and Senior Police Officer adults. Her rapport with the community is Community Service Specialist remarkable, and the positive energy she Houston Police Department and her colleagues share hands down Southwest Patrol Division is the very best. Mary is known as the 713-433-2720

TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

Kevinn Robinson 2016 TOP P&E

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evinn Robinson was born and raised in the historical Kashmere Gardens sector of Houston, Texas.

His parents, retired North Forest ISD educators, Mr. and Mrs. Johnny and Wanda Robinson, instilled in him the value of hard work. Growing up with two brothers, in what has been described as one of Houston’s toughest neighborhoods, Kevinn learned the value of education and discipline at an early age. Exceling in both academics and athletics at Kashmere High School as one of Houston’s top high school Forwards, Kevinn earned a full athletic scholarship playing basketball at the University of Oregon. A longing for his Texas roots returned the college athlete to his home state in 1996. Kevinn’s adoration for education was subsequently furthered at the University of Houston Downtown, where he acquired a Master’s degree in Education.

Embracing the unwavering footsteps of his parents, Kevinn has devoted twenty years to Houston Independent School District as an educator and mentor.

Currently an At-Risk Administrator in the Dropout Prevention Department, Kevinn is guided heavily by his personal upbringing and strong belief in the ancient African proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child.” Kevinn believes the “village” concept has been lost in today’s society.

Thus, he works diligently to reinforce the very concept he believes is responsible for shaping a nation of successful and wellrespected men and women of minority within and around the very community he culture in America. was raised, Kevinn has served on the City Standing 6 feet 8 inches tall, Kevinn’s of Houston’s Commission on Disabilities presence can at first glance be considered and was recognized publicly in 2004 as a intimidating. However, this gentle giant YMCA Young Minority Achiever Honoree. has spent his time as an educator and mentor displaying nothing short of compassion and enthusiasm for both the young and old, most often those whose voices go unheard and undervalued, advocating for change throughout the city of Houston. Helping to cultivate growth and transformation in the lives of individuals

A proud product of his community, Kevinn Robinson is expanding the reach of his advocacy as he runs for local political office in Harris County, as Justice of the Peace, Precinct 1, Position 1. Kevinn’s aim is to bridge the gap between law enforcement and community members, creating viable solutions for real people

experiencing real life situations.

Kevinn Robinson At-Risk Administrator Dropout Prevention Department Houston Independent School District 4400 West 18th Street Houston, Texas 77092

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Risa Hall

2016 TOP P&E

for NCAA major events. Risa has a stellar reputation in the industry, working with corporate partners to generate ideas and create and grow community programs. As one of the premier communications professionals in the area, her efforts have provided professional athletes and professional sports organizations with the increased positive exposure to gain community support.

Managing large budgets is also on her list of skills and talents, having successfully managed a budget of 1.5 million. Risa’s strategic planning and effective management techniques helped increase fundraising revenue for the Houston Texans.

Her experience with the NFL also includes creating annual reports and creating and coordinating internal volunteer programs.

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isa Hall is an accomplished event manager and community relations professional with more than 10 years of experience and a proven track record of executing sportrelated events. She is a Missouri native, and was raised in both St. Louis and Kansas City. She has always been active in sports and other activities, competing in dance, basketball, and track and field at an early age and through high school. Risa recently moved back to Houston after spending the last four years in New Orleans, where she managed community affairs efforts and special projects for the Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation and R+L 104

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Carriers New Orleans Bowl.

She is ecstatic to be in Houston to assist with the management of the 2016 NCAA Men’s Final Four that Houston will host this spring. In this current role, she is responsible for creating, coordinating, and executing all of the community relations programs in conjunction with the 2016 NCAA Men’s Final Four. Her extensive project management experience allows her to successfully serve as a liaison between the NCAA corporate office and the Houston community. She has been successful in her role, playing a vital part in the strong relationships between the NCAA and the community and business thought leaders in the Greater Houston area. In addition, she serves as media spokesperson for 2016 NCAA Final Four community relations programs and initiatives.

During her tenure in New Orleans, she helped coordinate efforts for: Risa is a proud graduate of Xavier University of Louisiana with a Bachelor’s degree • 2012 NCAA Men’s Final Four in Mass Communication, and the Univer• 2013 NCAA Women’s Final Four sity of North Texas, where she obtained her Master’s degree in Journalism. Risa • 2014 NBA All-Star Game has also worked in TV and radio. Risa is • WWE WrestleMania XXX a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and is active in the community, hav• Super Bowl XLVII ing worked with Dress for Success Houston, among other organizations.

Previously, Risa has managed communications strategies for Texas Southern Risa Hall University, worked with the NFL’s Hou- Senior Director of Community Relations ston Texans, and since 2010, she has worked on several management teams 2016 NCAA Men’s Final Four Host Committee, Inc.

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

Marcus D. Wiley

2016 TOP P&E

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orn in Houston, Texas, the son of a pastor, Marcus D. Wiley attended high school at Willowridge High School in Missouri City, Texas.

Marcus is a stand-up comedian who has toured around the nation performing ‘Clean Edgy Comedy.’ Marcus is known as a trend-setter for bringing clean stand-up comedy to the masses. He is a premiere entertainer whose class of comedy surpasses the status quo.

Marcus began his stand-up comedy ca-

reer in September 2002. His clean comedy approach caught the attention of four-time Grammy Award winner Yolanda Adams, and she offered him a spot as her co-host on the syndicated Yolanda Adams Morning Show. He is best known for his hilarious impressions of “Bishop Secular,” who is his alter ego on the radio show.

Deeply rooted in old-time religion, he offers a contemporary flair on Christian living. Marcus is best known for his masterful composure of music that moves your heart and truths that stir your soul with a

signature style laced in laughter. He has received major notoriety for his standup comedy tours and for his series of popular DVDs. Marcus is a college professor at Texas Southern University. He is happily married to his college sweetheart, Erica Wiley, and the two both live in Houston, Texas, with their son, Chase.

Marcus D. Wiley Comedian and Radio Personality The Yolanda Adams Morning Show www.marcusdwiley.com TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

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Precious T. Bickham 2016 TOP P&E

HR compliance, recruitment, staffing, employee relations, benefits, classification, compensation, training and development, and leadership coaching. Precious has provided her Human Resource expertise in various industries and sizes including Mutual of Omaha a Fortune 500 company, TLN Family Dental, d-mars.com, Prise II Inc. and non-profits such as Memorial Hermann Hospital System, Higher Dimension, HDSAP, and AFC Youth Ministries organization.

Precious received her undergraduate degree from Southern University A&M College in Baton Rouge, LA, and also obtained an MBA from LeTourneau University. Precious currently holds national credentials as a Professional in Human Resources (PHR), and SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP).

Precious, currently manages 10 projects, with the goal of adding 40% growth by the end of the 2016 year. Precious believes that anything is possible with faith, surrounding yourself with positive people, and hard work.

Precious T. Bickham Founding Partner CEO and Chief Human Resource Officer Thomas Bickham Group 2800 Post Oak Blvd., Suite 4100 Houston, TX 77056 832-390-2230

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he Thomas Bickham Group, LLC has over 26 years of experience in providing companies of all sizes, from large public companies to small private companies, with a complete suite of Human Resource and Business Solutions services. This company is an innovative provider of human resource services offering comprehensive outsourcing of the Human Resource function, and will cover all aspects to include transactional, 106

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operational, and strategic areas of need.

The dynamic team of customer-oriented Human Resource professionals will partner with businesses to ensure quality standards and compliance within Human Resources.

Precious Thomas Bickham is a founding partner, CEO, and Chief Human Resource Officer for the Thomas Bickham Group.

She is responsible for all functions of Human Resources for the company and has over 15 years of expertise that include,

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“Queen Esther” 2016 TOP P&E

Esther Lewis-Bernard aka “Queen Esther” Chef & Owner Esther’s Cajun Café & Soul Food 5204 Yale Street Houston, Texas 77091 713-699-1212 www.estherscajunsoul.com

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sther Lewis-Bernard is also known as “Queen Esther.” Her inspirational journey from 24 years of service at CenterPoint Energy to one of d-mars.com’s Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs is the story of an American legend. She grew up in Independent Heights in Houston, Texas, as the 7th child of 11 children.

Esther fought from a young age to find strength, faith, and perseverance that would later form foundations of her muchacclaimed recipes, products, and books.

The tradition of soulful cooking has long since been in Esther’s blood line. Esther’s great-grandmother, Mary Lewis, took pride in living off of the land, and was known as the master of country style cooking.

Gladiola Lewis aka “Momma Lewis,” Esther’s mother, developed expert skills in Cajun style cuisine. Both Momma Lewis and Mary Lewis believed in passing their recipes on to the next generation. Growing up, Esther faced much opposition, but never let anything distract her from her dreams.

To become an entrepreneur was her sole aspiration, but cooking exceptional Cajun soul food was embedded in her soul.

Esther attended Burrus Elementary, Booker T. Washington High School, Texas Southern University, and University of Phoenix. She has always wanted to provide an ambiance of fellowship and economic empowerment to the community through her soulful cooking and philanthropy. She saw treasure where others saw trash. She saw possibility where others saw poverty. She saw hope where others saw hell. She believed in the

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community that raised and taught her.

Therefore, she believed the community deserved to have a first-class soul food and Cajun restaurant that would serve as a pillar to the community and bring people together from all over the city to experience the greatness of the community.

Esther has always had the spirit of volunteerism, and has continued to give back throughout her career. She was voted Volunteer of the Year at Centerpoint Energy (formally HL&P) in 1997 for the many hours she gave to the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, UNCF, and March of Dimes walkathons, just to name a few. She has used her restaurant to give back to the community through various organizations such as Boy Scouts of America, Booker T. Washington, the Studewood Cobras, the Gents Association and many more.

She also feeds the homeless during the holidays. Esther has received many awards from the community in honor of her charitable efforts and many editorial praises for her amazing food.

When entering Esther’s Cajun Café & Soul Food, prepare to become an extended family member. Select things are merited for family, and at Esther’s Cajun Café, you will read the statement, “This seat is for you!” and this is truly how she feels. The experience at Esther’s Cajun Café is comparable to returning home for an authentic meal with family and friends. Esther brings her sincere fervor for family orientation to every guest that enters the restaurant.

Esther’s Cajun Café was established

July 22, 2008. Over the past 7 years, the restaurant has experienced exponential growth which would not have been possible without the help and support she has received from her loving family. Each dish is prepared with fresh ingredients daily and cooked with special spices that are Esther’s personal secret. You will find yourself creating opportunities to come indulge in the vast selection of entrees, sides, and desserts. A few of Esther’s specialties consist of mouth-watering mustard greens, scrumptious sweet potatoes, and her famed, delectable oxtails. While those items add to the multifarious weekday menu, you are guaranteed to find yourself delighting in the extraordinary weekend menu that spotlights an array of Cajun classics such as gumbo, crawfish & shrimp etouffeé, and their famous Cajun fried chicken. The food is incomparable, and it is homemade.

Come join the family, and treat yourself at Esther’s Cajun Café & Soul Food. The restaurant’s famous tagline is, “Where the Food is Amazin’!” After you eat at Esther’s, you will see that the food truly is amazing.

Esther has been married to her love, Tyrone Bernard, for 10 years. She has 7 children and 7 beautiful grandkids.

Esther has been recognized for her charitable efforts and amazing food: • 2015 Best Cajun Food Houston Press • 2011 Best Soul Food Houston Press • 2009 Best Soul Food Houston Press • 2015 iEatHouston - #1 Best Soul Food Restaurant by Robert “Bassman” Washington of Majic 102.1FM & KHOU Channel 11 • 2011 Finalist (1 of 3 Chosen) for the Fox 26 “Madea’s Big Happy Family” Restaurant Wars • 2015 Booker T. Washington Gents 50th Year Excellence In Entrepreneurship Award • 2014-2015 The Lady League & Gents Independence Heights Back To School Blast Giveaway • 2015 Five Star Review on ChefsFeed by Chef Randy Evans • 2015 Certified Good Eats Houston Featured Restaurant • 2014 National Eats: #34 of 60 of the Best Mom & Pop Soul Food Joints

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Tasha Royal 2016 TOP P&E

In a mega city with a host of available realtors, Tasha is one of the most sought after realtors in Houston. Her reputation for being a master negotiator and her ability to close deals expeditiously has afforded her the opportunity to work with a wealth of clients of all classes, including a repertoire of notable celebrities, athletes, and high net worth clients domestically and globally. From starter homes to multimillion dollar residences, Tasha has been putting buyers in their ideal homes since 2005. Not only is she the owner of the luxury real estate powerhouse, The Royal Agency, she is also the President of Ambassador Custom Homes, a builder that not only customizes million dollar homes, but also develops affordable housing in low-income communities in two of Houston’s revitalization areas, Sunnyside and Fifth Ward.

In recognizing the needs of many lowincome families across the Houston area, Tasha works to educate women and youth on real estate investing and entrepreneurship. Also, as an active role model in the community, Tasha dedicates her time to volunteer at local churches and for programs organized to assist women recovering from substance and physical abuse. As a single mother of a daughter who is preparing to attend a top tier medical school, Tasha’s passion to help other single mothers played an integral part of the development of affordable housing through the Ambassador Custom Homes’ brand.

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asha Royal is a second generation real estate expert with an extensive education in real estate, business management, and marketing.

As a luxury real estate expert, Tasha Royal stands out for being an exceptional listener, a master negotiator, and for being able to fully comprehend, manage, and often surpass her clients’ expectations.

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Tasha has the following professional affiliations: • Houston Association of Realtors residential or commercial real estate, • Texas Association of Realtors you will want a realtor to make a full-time • National Association of Realtors commitment to you. Tasha can and will • Certified Military Relocation Specialist be there for you full-time. As your realtor, she will go the extra mile to make sure that the process of purchasing a new Tasha Royal President home or selling your existing home is as stress-free as possible.

The Royal Agency As one of the top producing luxury real estate experts in the city, Tasha has a host of accolades that follow her name.

4771 Sweetwater Blvd., Suite 110 Sugar Land, Texas 77479 832-605-6400 TashaRoyal1@yahoo.com

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Sheldon Theragood 2016 TOP P&E

set short-term and long-term goals by identifying their aspirations. Theragood coordinates outreach activities to get them involved in the community. This organization is greatly benefitting the youth in our community.

TheraGOOD DEEDS has coordinated outreach activities to get them heavily involved in the community. “The kids involved with TheraGOOD DEEDS are learning that there are other people in difficult situations, and they are improving in school. Some of the kids have even saved their money and bought supplies when we did a toiletry drive, because they felt it was important to have money saved to give back to the less fortunate. Some parents have told me that they are so thankful for showing their child the importance of giving,” says Theragood.

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heldon Theragood is an officer with the Houston Police Department Mental Health Division, working with the department’s Homeless Outreach Team. When it comes to giving back, Theragood is doing just that with his nonprofit organization, TheraGOOD DEEDS. This nonprofit gem is giving youth the unique opportunity to do good deeds for the often forgotten members of our community who are in need. TheraGOOD DEEDS gives young people hands-on experience to show compassion and help those that are less fortunate. This organization gives youth a positive outlet that empowers and motivates them to be responsible and compassionate citizens in their adulthood.

TheraGOOD DEEDS’ primary focus revolves around assisting school-age children and young adults in at-risk situations. These children and young people 112

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The efforts and positive impact of TheraGOOD DEEDS has not gone unnoticed, as they have received recognition from the South East Gunners football and cheer team and Faces of Black Houston. The long-term goals for this organization are creating a youth center and after school care program, among other initiatives.

TheraGOOD DEEDS hosts an annual PreThanksgiving event and Christmas for Kids Toy Drive and Christmas party for sponsored families and kids. Sheldon Theragood is a pillar of the community, showing our kids that it’s better to give than to receive.

they are helping are known as their “Future Achievers.” The passion to start this selfless endeavor began during Theragood’s tenure as a Harris County Youth Detention Officer. While working at the detention center, Theragood often came into contact with many youth who lacked positive role models, but after Theragood is also a contributing writer for giving some positive reinforcement, the the d-mars.com publication. youth began to confide in him about their dreams and aspirations. Many of our youth in at-risk situations have dreams, but they just need those positive role models to help guide them. Theragood Sheldon Theragood realized it was his job to offer hope and Police Officer & Philanthropist positive direction. That is when the TherHouston Police Department aGOOD DEEDS seed was planted.

Mental Health Division With the assistance of their volunteers, this organization challenges their Future Achievers to always think positively and perform “good deeds,” not only for themselves, but for society as a whole. They also challenge their Future Achievers to

Homeless Outreach Team 900 Bagby Street Houston, TX 77002 832-394-4200 TheraGOOD DEEDS www.theragooddeeds.org

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

Veronica R. Douglas 2016 TOP P&E

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eronica R. Douglas, CPPB, PSCM is the Manager of the Small Business Development Program at Houston Community College, where she provides assistance to small businesses by providing workshops, information, and support. She has over 15 years of experience in public procurement, having previously worked for the City of Rockwall, the City of Allen, the City of Plano, and the City of Houston, Texas.

She holds the Certified Professional Public Buyer (CPPB) and Purchasing Supply Chain Management (PSCM) designations. She is the Southeast Texas Asso-

ciation of Public Purchasing (SETAPP) Vice President and the Awards and Scholarship Committee Chair. She is also a member of the National Institute of Governmental Purchasing (NIGP), having served on the Membership and Chapter Relations Committees. In 2014, she was a finalist for the NIGP Buyer of the Year Award.

Her desire to work with minority business enterprises has given her the opportunity to serve as the Program Committee Chair and the 40th Anniversary Gala Chair for the Houston Minority Supplier Development Council (HMSDC), where she was recognized as a finalist for the Councils Helping Hand Award, an award that recognizes outstanding support and dedica-

tion to the principles and ideals of the Council.

Other achievements include being recognized by the City of Houston Strategic Procurement Division as an Employee of the Third Quarter. She is also a recipient of the Respect Award from the City of Allen, Texas.

Veronica R. Douglas, CPPB, PSCM Manager of the Small Business Development Program Houston Community College System 3100 Main Street, Room 11B06 Houston, Texas 77002 713-718-5278 veronica.douglas@hccs.edu hccs.edu\procurement TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

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Nathaniel Curvey 2016 TOP P&E

focused security company in the state of Texas, with security officers who provide unmatched security solutions to meet the specific needs of businesses. The core of the business is security services. Their main service offering categories are specialized guarding, mobile security patrol services, remote guarding, highly trained personal protection, and corporate risk management.

Mr. Curvey is committed to providing trained and licensed security officers who have knowledge, experience, and the expertise necessary to protect his clients and their physical and financial assets in a timely and cost-effective manner. He truly understand that the better trained his personnel staff is, the better he can serve clients.

Mr. Curvey takes pride in the fact that Accurate Security is able to harness a flat organization, which enables the specialization that is needed to be true experts in the security industry. It is with the right expertise that Accurate Security is able to provide the innovation that is needed and required to offer clients a meaningful security solution.

Mr. Curvey’s motto is, “Accurate Security Inc. is a company you can trust that is passionate about providing a secure environment, both locally and nationally.”

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athaniel Curvey is the Founder and CEO of Accurate Security, Inc. He is a native Houstonian, proud of his Houston roots, and he graduated from Kashmere High School in 1986. After high school he attended Midland Junior College and later graduated with an Associate’s degree in General Studies. After that, he went on to attend Southern University at New Orleans and graduated with a Bachelor’s

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Mr. Curvey is a huge supporter of the local community, supporting school districts and back to school drives to help students return to school. With many achievements on the horizon, Mr. Curvey is working diligently to continue the growth of his company. He has the passion and drive to secure the world. With many accomplishments under his belt, he is most proud degree in Criminal Justice and a minor in of being a Master Piece Officer, the 1st Sociology.

Black School Marshall in the nation, and In 1993, Mr. Curvey joined the Houston most of all, a father.

Police Department and continued his tenure until 2006. After a successful career Nathaniel Curvey in law enforcement, he later decided to Founder and CEO open his own company. It was in 2011 when he realized that security was his Accurate Security Inc. calling and founded Accurate Security, 15634 Wallisville Rd., Suite 800-162 Houston, TX 77049 Inc. Accurate Security is the most locally-

713-330-8070 accuratesecurityinc.com

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Timothy J. Stewart 2016 TOP P&E

Timothy J. Stewart Owner and Operator Steber Trucking 9108 N Allegro Street Houston, Texas 77080 832-917-3020 stebertrucking@yahoo.com

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imothy J. Stewart came up in humble beginnings, growing up in the small town of Vivian, LA. Though he had hard times, he always recognized that education was somewhat of a game changer. He went to welding school to help further himself. After that, he became a father. The responsibility of being a young father was new to Stewart, but he did not let that stop him from reaching his goals.

He took odd jobs, but that didn’t fulfill him. He knew he had to do more to be an example for his wife and children. He was not going to be a statistic or the product of his environment. He was an ex-offender with a family and knew he had to keep pushing. He was determined not to let past mistakes keep him from being a success.

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He heard about an agency hiring ex-offenders, but the jobs were in waste management. He didn’t care about getting dirty, as long as he could feed his family.

After running behind trash trucks for a little over a year, a driver’s job wasn’t his final goal. He set his sights higher, and sought to acquire a commercial driver license (CDL). That meant no school, no tuition, just a license. He knew that was an attainable goal. He received his CDL and took the license from the waste management industry, to the concrete, and then the building industry. He had success in the industry for 8 years. In 2009, while on vacation in California, seeing semi after semi, he was inspired to obtain his Class A CDL, and he did.

ing hard, maintaining a good credit rating, and managing his money, he was able to finance his first rig, without incident. Four years later, he purchased his second rig and trailer.

He’s not ashamed of his past, and knows that your past and difficult circumstances do not have to dictate your future. He has had great success, as owner of Steber Trucking. He continues to grow the business, with plans for expansion.

He admits that though he made some mistakes, turning his life around and making the right decisions is what sustained him. He finds joy and pride in the fact that he can provide for his family. He is a shining example of what hard work and a posiHe was always smart enough to know tive attitude can achieve. Today, Stewart that if he wanted to have anything in life, has made Steber Trucking a viable and he would have to work for it. After work- thriving business.

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Jonathan C. Frank 2016 UP & COMING

and his associates fight for justice for the accused, equity for the injured, and accounts receivables for the creditors.

One of his higher profiled cases include “U.S.A. v. Holt et. al” where the government is alleging a distribution of over one hundred pounds of heroin existed. Another notable case includes, “The State of Texas v. Deionthay Harper.” This case picked up national notoriety (see nbcnews.com) when the defendant became accused of being a part of the first escape ever from the Harris County Juvenile Detention Center.

Jonathan also serves as project manager for Med-Security, Inc., one of the largest CERTIFIED MBEs in the state of Texas.

The San Antonio based corporation has offices in San Antonio, Austin, Dallas, and Houston. Jonathan manages the Houston office alongside Stanley Aragon, where they manage over 120 employees and 4,000 weekly hours.

Jonathan’s third role is business owner.

He co-owns a debt collection agency that collects over $100,000 monthly. Some of the agency’s clients include medical offices, credit card companies, and banks.

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ttorney Jonathan Charles Harper Frank began his academic career at Tennessee State University, where he studied engineering for three years after receiving a full presidential scholarship. After realizing that engineering was not his desired career path, Jonathan transitioned into the College of Business where he took up a double major and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Economics and Finance. After graduation, he decided to pursue law and attended Texas Southern 118

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Conversing with Jonathan, it is clear that he is an enormous proponent of glorifying God. It is also clear that Jonathan gives his family the bulk of the credit. He has a tremendous amount of appreciation for his parents, siblings, and grandparents.

He also attributes a sizable amount of credit to his aunts, uncles, and cousins citing that they provided him with inspiration, motivation, and many helping hands in his development throughout his life.

Jonathan is a member of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church and follows the teachings of Dr. Rev. Marcus D. Cosby.

University, where he entered into the dual law and business program. It was here where he was able to secure his juris doctorate degree and master’s degree in business administration becoming Jonathan Charles Harper Frank, JD, MBA the 26th lawyer in the family. Jonathan Attorney at Law and Owner holds a distinctive feat of passing the bar examination one year before graduating from school.

Jonathan C. Frank & Associates Attorney Frank has earned his position on the list by exercising three roles in what is only his second year in his career. He serves as an attorney, project manager, and business owner. As an attorney, he

Pennzoil Place - North Tower 700 Milam Street, Suite 1300 Houston, Texas 77002 832-871-5263 www.jonathancfrank.com

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Douglas Smith and Marque Fountain 2016 UP & COMING

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ouglas Smith and Marque Fountain have known each other for as long as they can remember, growing up in Missouri City, Texas. While in college, Doug worked at Exclusive Furniture, giving him extensive knowledge of the furniture business. Both Doug and Marque always wanted to own their own business and had aspirations to be their own boss.

After Doug graduated from Texas Southern University and Marque graduated from Oklahoma State, they went into business together, co-founding Your Cost Furniture. Seeing drug dealers and the rough environment sometimes AfricanAmericans face, they were encouraged

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to become business owners and be positive influences in the Houston area.

Their goal was to not only be successful at business, but to also dispel the myth associated with young African-American males.

Their recipe for success includes God, faith, family, true friends, and hard work as the ingredients. With profits reaching over one million dollars in sales each year, it’s safe to say that they have not only met, but exceeded expectations.

With their blessings, they are able to give to charities and provide backpacks and much needed school supplies to children in underserved communities. Always keeping the community in mind and wanting to pay it forward to the young

generation, they have created the Your Cost Furniture for Kids Scholarship Program.

When it comes to business, their motto is “Be the best you can! With God everything is possible.” Achieving success only encourages them to aim bigger and achiever more as African-American business men.

Douglas Smith and Marque Fountain Co-Owners Your Cost Furniture 15441 South Post Oak Rd. Houston, Texas 77053 (713) 434-2999 (713) 434-2996 yourcostfurnituretx.com

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Claude E. Cox, II 2016 UP & COMING

children, specifically black males, receive the best quality education possible. He attended Harvard School of Education, where he received credit for completing the “Closing the Achievement Gap” certification. He is a Teach For America 2008 Corps Member and a recipient of the Bill and Melinda Gates Scholars Award.

Currently, Claude works in the Elementary Curriculum and Development Office for the Houston Independent School District. He has trained and developed over 250 teachers and school leaders for HISD by implementing quality and rich professional development targeted at reaching students of low socio-economic and low income backgrounds. As a Development Specialist, Claude’s role is geared specifically towards helping stakeholders close math achievement gaps among minority children. In this work, Claude facilitates professional development seminars and trainings that help teachers and school leaders maximize the potential of students in at-risk situations.

Primarily, Claude focuses on engaging African-American and Latino students in rigorous math activities that include handson learning, computer programming, and college readiness support. Aside from education, Claude also serves as the Personal Brand Ambassador for Pastor J and Lady J of Higher Dimension Church and The Answer Conference.

Claude E. Cox, II Development Specialist Elementary Curriculum and Development Office Houston Independent School District 4400 West 18th Street Houston, TX 77092

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laude E. Cox, II is a native of Chicago, Illinois, where he was a Minority Dealer Operations Intern for Ford Motor Company. In 2008, Claude earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Supply Chain Management from Clark

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Atlanta University. He is a recent M.B.A. graduate from The University of Saint Thomas in Houston.

Claude has dedicated the last 8 years of his life to educating underprivileged students in the Houston community. He has traveled throughout the country and the state of Texas to assure that Houston

TOP 50 BLACK P&E 2016

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d-mars.com Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

Tiye T. Foley 2016 UP & COMING

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iye Foley is a rising attorney who concentrates her practice in intellectual property and commercial litigation.

In addition to her experience with trademarks, copyrights, and patents, Tiye also has experience with personal injury litigation, admiralty and maritime litigation, maritime business and transactions, labor and employment, insurance coverage, and construction litigation. Born and raised in Beaumont, Texas, Tiye moved to Houston for the opportunity to attend St. John’s School in her pre-collegiate years. Tiye went on to attend Rice University, where she obtained degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Spanish. As an undergraduate student, Tiye balanced her studies, tutoring math and Spanish, taking leadership roles in the National Society of Black Engineers and participating on the cheerleading squad. She then received her Juris Doctor from the University of Texas School of Law, where she served as an Executive Board Member for the local chapter of the National Black Law Students Association.

During her time in law school, Tiye also volunteered at the Austin Alternative Learning School, mentoring inner-city youth. Not only does Tiye devote her professional time to the practice of law, but she also serves as Co-chair of the NAACP-Houston’s Legal Redress Committee. As an Executive Board Member, Tiye organizes pro bono legal clinics for indigent community members, including expunction clinics for individuals with criminal records. Most recently, Tiye has participated in an unscripted docu-series slated to air on WEtv in March of 2016.

As a young, thriving, African-American attorney, wife, and step-mother, the trials and tribulations Tiye faces in her everyday life will be chronicled. Tiye continues to break the mold and make strides in the legal community.

Donelson Intellectual Property Alert, January 25, 2016

• Member – Houston Intellectual Property Law Association

• Co-Author/Editor – “Particular Admiralty Actions,” Chapter 707 of Moore’s Federal Practice, 2013, 2014

• Member – National Society of Black Engineers

• Co-Author – “Crossing the Threshold: Statutory Expert Reports in Suits Against Professionals,” presentation at the 2013 Corpus Christi Bar Association Advanced Personal Injury Law Seminar

Admissions

Professional Honors & Activities • Member – American Bar Association • Member – State Bar of Texas • Member – Houston Bar Association Publications & Speaking Engage- • Member – NAACP Houston, Legal Rements dress • Co-Author – “Will Your EU Registrations • Member – The Houston’s Mariners Be Invalidated by the New Law? “ Baker Club, Inc.

• Texas, 2013 • U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit • U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas • U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas Tiye T. Foley Attorney Baker Donelson 1301 McKinney Street, Suite 3700 Houston, Texas 77010

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May - June 2015

Industrial Welding Academy: Providing Opportunities to Houston’s Next Generation

By Dawn Paul

success as being the continual training of its staff members. Miranda says, “So often individuals are given expectations, but are not given the tools needed to meet those expectations. At IWA, we give the students expectations and tools to succeed in the welding industry.” The motto at IWA is “Integrity with Attitude.” Since 2007, IWA has opened doors for young welders to become their very best in a quality welding training environment. “We can teach them a trade by taking advantage of the energy capital of the world right here in Houston, Texas,” Andre says.

Associate Editor

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ndustrial Welding Academy (IWA) and Andre and Miranda Horn are shining examples of community builders, because they are paying it forward and providing opportunities for the next generation to succeed. The Horns have not only made IWA a successful business, but also a place to get a second chance at a career and life. Recently IWA hosted hundreds of young aspiring welders to test for certifications at their annual Student Welder Certification Day, and elected officials, local leaders and the community were in attendance. This event was more than helping get young people certified to start on a positive path to success, but it allowed the public to witness and celebrate IWA’s initiative to help build a better community.

Andre Horn was always ambitious and was exposed to welding in high school. The youngest of 16 children, he had humble beginnings, but that only fueled his aspirations to succeed.

After attending Texas State Technical College in Waco, Texas for one year, a company chose to invest in him and his welding experience. That one opportunity sparked his welding career and he hasn’t looked back. After working as a senior welding contractor for several major industrial companies, Horn decided to branch out on his

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Industrial Welding Welding Academy: Industrial Academy:Their Their Approach to to Welding Welding Education Approach Education own and purchased a boat storage in Channelview, Texas, where he started his first entrepreneurial move and first training. Although Hurricane Katrina damaged his boat storage, he recovered and purchased a 1,500 square foot building in Pasadena, where he started training 120 people a day.

Andreand andMiranad MirandaHorn Horn Andre Andre Horn is the founder and CEO of IWA, with over 20 years training experience in the welding industry. Horn is a Certified Welding Educator (CWE), and he has been a senior welding contractor with several major industrial companies, including Zachary Construction,

Austin Industrial, Harmony Corporation, and S&B Engineers. Andre could not have taken IWA to its current level without the help of his wife and director of IWA, Miranda Horn. Miranda is a highly experienced, dedicated professional with more than 10 years of experience in the Workforce Development industry.

Her experience also includes several years of managerial skills. She has worked for Neighborhood Centers and Workforce Solutions before she dedicated herself to helping Andre fulfill their vision of helping others. Serving as director of IWA, she is dedicated to teaching students the trade of welding through a uniquely designed curriculum.

Miranda credits one reason for IWA’s

IWA is located in East Houston.

IWA’s impressive facility consists of offices, classrooms, and a welding lab. The welding school at IWA is state-of-the-art, and it comfortably accommodates fifteen students per instructor. Because IWA wants to prepare their students to be in the best possible position when entering the welding profession, their facility is designed to resemble and inspire on the job settings. IWA is built to accommodate realistic welding positions and environment, which includes; out of position welding, jack stand welding, on the scaffold welding, simulation of pipe rack welding layout and fit up, oxy-fuel, and thermal cutting scenarios. In addition, each student is assigned a welding machine and welding booth for utilization during the course. Providing individual

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

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“What is important is the shortage of qualified welders in the world, and that’s one of the things that IWA addresses. They give qualified welders the opportunity to be qualified. We need more qualified welders, and that is what IWA produces.”

— John R. Bray, Vice President of American Welding Society

booths for students allows them to utilize their skills individually and collectively.

IWA is committed to providing quality training and education based on welding industry needs.

Industrial Welding Welding Academy: Industrial Academy: QualQuality Instruction Education ity Instruction and and Education At IWA, students are learning the fundamentals and techniques of welding.

Because many of the IWA students have had a rough start in life, this gives them a second chance to change their lives.

IWA and the Horns are providing young men and women an opportunity to gain higher education in the welding industry. Though the percentage of AfricanAmericans in the welding industry is low, IWA is trying to change that percentage by giving minorities the skills necessary to excel in a career in welding. IWA equips students to perform their best, because they have the credentials, discipline, experience, and welding training to produce results.

IWA students are able to compete with the best in the welding industry because of the IWA instructors. IWA instructors are Certified Welding Educators (CWEs), and they are credentialed by the American Welding Society (AWS). The Horns are proud that their IWA certi-

fied welding instructors have more than 20 years of experience in the welding industry. Not only do the IWA instructors prepare the students to pass AWS exams, but they also help them improve their skills while working on-the-job.

WeldingIndustry Industry and and Careers Careers Welding Welding shapes lives and communities every day. Most people are surprised to learn that half of our nation’s total gross national product includes welding work, products and services of some kind. A career in welding is very different than you think, and welding is dynamic and challenging, but also a rewarding career.

Welding technology has changed over the years. Believe it or not, there are too many welding jobs and not enough welders. From manufacturing to construction, the demand for welders is strong. Salaries are also good, given that many jobs don’t require extensive education. Average wages are $17-25 an hour, with more complex roles like underwater welding; specialized certifications; or supervisory roles offering even higher earnings (American Welding Society).

IWA believes in placing its students on the path to not just a job, but a career, by addressing the shortage of skilled workers in welding and imparting the value

of integrity and discipline upon its students.

IWA recently hosted hundreds of student welders at their campus for their annual Student Welder Certification Day. It was a full house for this celebratory event. Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee was in attendance and gave IWA a Certificate of Congressional Recognition, as did Congressman Al Green, who was also represented. Council Member Robert Gallegos, Council Member Larry Green, other elected officials, and community leaders were also in attendance showing their support for IWA’s

initiative to not only educate the next generation, but to also provide a second chance for a successful life. IWA students have gone on to make six figures after graduating from the school’s programs. The Horns have plans for IWA expansion, including locations in Beaumont, Corpus Christi, San Antonio, Louisiana, Alabama and Mississippi.

For more about the Industrial Welding Academy, please visit www.iwatraining.com.

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Industrial Welding Academy

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To enroll at TSU visit www.tsu.edu/admissions; Join the alumni association at

www.tsu.edu/alumni; For information about TSU’s online degree programs, visit www.tsu.edu/onlinelearning; Support Texas Southern University at www.tsu.edu/giving.

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