May / June Issue 2023

MAHOGANY Columbus

FOUNDER/PUBLISHER:

C. Sunny Martin

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER AND EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, PARTNER

Kay Wilson

DIRECTOR OF CLIENT EXPERIENCE, PARTNER

Ajah Potts

DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT:

Steve Clark

PHOTOGRAPHY:

Ira Graham III

Official Photographer

DIRECTOR MULTI-MEDIA:

Aarius Dumas

GRAPHIC PRODUCTION:

Melissa Burkheimer Studios

PRINTING PRODUCTION:

Post Printing

EDITORIAL BOARD ADVISORS:

Roger D. Blackwell, PhD.

Alisha Martin

Sean Grant

Jennifer Walton, MBA

Kay Wilson

ADVERTISING INQUIRES: Sunny@CSunnyMartin.com

Phone: 614-937-3390

EVENT NEWS/PRESS RELEASES: Sunny@CSunnyMartin.com

Publisher’s Memo…

When visualizing my initial thoughts and vision for Mahogany Columbus – Central Ohio’s New Urban Lifestyle Magazine, I became inspired by one of Webster’s definitions of the word “mahogany” meaning it symbolizes high-quality, strength, resilience, and durability. Immediately what came to mind so epitomizes the history, heritage, and culture legacy of People of Color in America, my people.

Our mission vision, goals and objectives with this Mahogany Columbus media brand is to celebrate and shine a spotlight on this region’s dynamic population of People of Color from all sorts of cultural backgrounds, professions, and livelihoods.

You should know that the demographic profile of Columbus People of Color (POC) in Columbus, and Central Ohio are most certainly making their mark in all sorts of careers and professions. The U. S. Census Bureau reports that Central Ohio’s population of People of Color (POC) is fast approaching almost forty percent of the region’s total population, consisting of African Americans, Latino and Hispanic citizens, and a plethora of new African immigrants.

This is our 3rd Issue of Mahogany Columbus as we are a bi-monthly publication producing six (6) issues per year. However, you’ll find our content daily updated on Instagram @MahoganyColumbus, Facebook @MahoganyColumbus, and on LinkedIn @ Mahogany Media Group. Additionally, each time we roll out a new issue of Mahogany Columbus we host a special release reception networking mixer to more intentionally engage with our growing audience of readers and followers. These events have been a great hit with each thus far having well over one hundred guests in attendance.

Future plans call for a few exciting other events that will take place in the fourth 4th quarter of this year and will greatly expand our footprint of engagement in the Central Ohio community. This September will be hosting the Mahogany Columbus Community Leaders Awards breakfast at the Columbus Airport Marriott Hotel. In November, we will be producing a vendor event called the Black Christmas Expo at the same location Friday and Saturday, November 24th and 25th. Additionally, as we usher out 2023, we will be hosting the Mahogany Columbus Small Business Awards to celebrate those inspiring small businesses in our community.

In closing, we hope to meet may more of you at the Memorial Day Black Expo at Genoa Park later this month on Saturday and Sunday May 27th & May 28th. See you then!

#ForTheCulture

C. SUNNY MARTIN Founder/Managing Partner Mahogany Media Group LLC

CONGRESSWOMAN Joyce Beatty

We thank you for your dedication and tireless advocacy on behalf of our students, faculty, researchers, patients, and community. Congratulations from your fellow Buckeyes!

From Our Editor-In-Chief and Associate Publisher

Kay Wilson

ground-breaking product; in other cases, the legacy is fighting for a stage that will bring culture to the people, by the people. Each of the women featured showed their resilience and authenticity in hopes of giving others the courage to be themselves.

impression behind for those who follow. Navigating with courage in the same beat, like Sheri Neale and others who follow on Mahogany’s pages.

When we think of influence, it’s easy to think of how many social media followers a person may have. But when it comes to real influence, it’s not always about the blue checks or the thumbs up; it’s about purpose and passion. This issue of Mahogany Magazine has been an inspiring initiative. Of course, the goal was not to be an all-encompassing presentation off all of the phenomenal Women of Color who are making an impact and hold influence in Columbus. But within our framework and our budget, Mahogany Columbus is highlighting Women of Color who are influencers, who are truly bossing up and creating ripple effects with national impact.

Influence takes many different shapes. Sometimes a person has turned their pain into a pointed argument for justice, or created a

Working with the Mahogany team on this issue and reading the submissions has left a big impression on me. Commissioner Erica Crawley continues to raise the voices of women and veterans, Elizabeth Martinez leads youth from a place of empathy because she has been on both sides of the table. State Representative Munira Abdullahi didn’t let biases restrict her potential, Lark Mallory works to advance her mission by pushing for equity, and Trudy Bartley is an example of how being guided by your values advances how you show up for your community. Each of the women featured works hard to create brave spaces. And with that same sense of passion, they’re working hard at being helpful to others. To see the efforts they are making is inspiring and humbling, and as I sit here writing this piece, I can only pray to have the capacity to make it happen- to tend to community, business, and to understand how the work we do today will leave an

In fact, in this issue of Mahogany Columbus you’ll read more about some of ‘warrior women’ who are doing amazing things in Central Ohio. These women of influence are a force to be reckoned with.

We also pay tribute to the diligence of Congresswoman Joyce Beatty as she reflects on her 10 years of service in doing the hard work of setting policy designed to deliver collective services to the community in the House of Representatives.

Mahogany Magazine is also highlighting some of Columbus’ Influential Executives in Diversity & Inclusion, recognizing professionals who have driven positive change within their organizations and the corporate world. These leaders have implemented innovative diversity, equity, and inclusion strategies to recruit, retain, elevate, and embrace diverse talent. Showcasing many whose deep footprints have provided a map for future inclusion, diversity, equity and access professionals.

MEET A FEW OF OUR TEAM MEMBERS

Donna A. Binda, Senior Associate, Banker

J.P. Morgan Private Bank

Donna Binda is a Banker in the Columbus office of J.P. Morgan Private Bank. Donna works closely with accomplished individuals, business owners and families, acting as their champion toward the financial future they desire.

Donna believes in the uniqueness of the individual—to her, no two clients are alike. She prides herself on understanding each person’s life journey, family dynamics, priorities and pain points before providing thoughtful wealth management recommendations geared toward future goals.

Donna combines her ten-plus years of financial services experience with J.P. Morgan’s best-in-class capabilities—investments, estate planning,

lending, philanthropy and banking— delivering these in a personalized and bespoke manner. Clients value her genuine demeanor, problem-solving diligence and sense of ownership for all matters, large and small.

Donna earned an M.B.A. from Kennesaw State University in Georgia. She holds a B.A. in Psychology from the University of West Georgia. Donna has an ingrained passion for helping young children in need, which originated from the fourteen years she spent growing up in Cameroon, West Africa. In 2018, her family founded BesongSmile, a charitable organization dedicated to providing hope, wellness support and education to underserved families, especially orphans from impoverished communities in the area.

Marshell Arnold, Managing Director Branch Review - CCB Controls

J.P. Morgan Chase

Marshell Arnold is the Managing Director of Branch Review in Consumer & Community Banking (CCB) Controls where she is responsible for the overall functioning and management of branch review and testing. She manages in-branch testing nationally, assessing risk, executing testing, identifying issues, and documenting work for assigned branches.

Marshell’s overall passion is leadership. She is known for her dedication, ability to build and motivate people at all levels, and drive results. She contributes highly to the culture of the Columbus Market by being active in several initiatives outside of

her Branch Review role. Marshell is the co-lead’s Central Ohio’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Council. She actively assists in recruiting talent to the Corporate Analyst Development Program (CADP) and is a member of several Business Resource Groups. Marshell also holds the title of Columbus Impact Leader for the Racial Equity Commitment, which is the $30 billion commitment that JPMorgan Chase has implemented to help close the racial wealth gap and help Black, Hispanic, and Latino people build wealth.

Marshell has a Business Degree from DeVry University with a concentration in accounting as well as a Master

During her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family— preferably outdoors—and is a fan of audiobooks.

of Arts specializing in Organizational Leadership from the Ashford University Forbes Business school. She lives in Pickerington, OH, with her husband and has three boys.

Donna has also been an active supporter of financial literacy programs and Dress for Success.

How JPMorgan is Helping Put Women of Color at the Center of Economic Development in Central Ohio

JPMorgan Chase Invests $1.5 Million to Create an Equity Design Institute for Women of

Color.

Women of color are the fastest-growing population in Franklin County. Yet, Black and Latina women closest to our city’s economic inequities—and with immense lived experience navigating obstacles to economic wellbeing—are often excluded from the processes, powerbrokers, and resources to solve economic challenges.

That is why JPMorgan Chase announced a $1.5 million systems-change investment to fund an equity design institute for women of color, an initiative to embed designing for equity into the core of the Columbus community’s economic development efforts.

The investment is a collaborative effort led by Zora’s House, The Women’s Fund of Central Ohio, and Columbus College of Art & Design, in partnership with four additional organizations led by and serving women of color in the region: Affordable Housing Trust, Columbus Urban League, Women’s Center for Economic Opportunity, and YWCA Columbus.

“Women of color are the backbone of our economy – as consumers,

homeowners, entrepreneurs, business owners, heads of households, and so much more,” said Corrine Burger, Columbus location leader for JPMorgan Chase. “With this investment, we are eager to create an initiative that empowers more women of color to lead and design Columbus’ economic development efforts in order to help strengthen Ohio communities and create a more inclusive economy for all.”

The organization will be headquartered at Zora’s House, a local coworking space and leadership incubator for women of color, and will leverage design thinking to shift power dynamics so that the expertise, perspective, and lived experiences of women of color lead the development and implementation of innovative solutions to some of the community’s most challenging disparities.

Pictured are Stephanie Hightower, President and CEO The Columbus Urban League, Kelley Giesmer, President and CEO The Women’s Fund of Central Ohio, Lark T. Mallory, President and CEO, Affordable Housing Trust for Columbus and Franklin County, LC Johnson, Founder and CEO Zora’s House, Keena M. Smith CEO The Women’s Center for Economic Opportunity, and Christie Angel former President and CEO YWCA Columbus

According to the JPMorgan Chase Institute, supporting the wealth creation and economic success of low-and moderate-income Black and Latina women is foundational to building more equitable and inclusive communities for all. The Federal Reserve estimates if gender and racial gaps were closed, the 2005–2019 Ohio Gross Domestic Product (GDP) would have increased by $67 billion.

“Without women of color engaged in creating solutions, ineffective programs and policies are funded and implemented,” said LC Johnson, founder of Zora’s House. “This is a true systems-change investment that will start at the root cause of how decisions are made and is a critical step toward designing a city that hears, responds to, and implements a vision of economic prosperity designed by those most impacted by obstacles.”

Within the institute’s first 24 months, two cohorts of women will come together to learn equity-centered design thinking techniques, which they will use to generate solutions to pressing community issues such as childcare as a wealth decelerator for women of color. These cohorts will be taught by Lara Alsoudani Weeks, an adjunct instructor at the Columbus College of Art & Design (CCAD) and partner & art director of Fringe 22. Alongside this work, a stand-alone certificate in equity-centered design thinking will be created and offered through CCAD to both organiza-

tional participants and the general public.

“Iterative thinking and equitable design education are critical for removing barriers to economic success and ensuring women of color are at the table to shape solutions for the future,” said Jennifer Schlueter, CCAD Associate Provost & Dean of Academics. “Our equity-centered design thinking certificate will provide much-needed formal resources to the community at large to solve problems in a creative and inclusive way, serving as a lever for social change at organizations across central Ohio.”

An equity catalyst fund will support promising collaborative ventures that come out of the equity design institute in phases of ideation, feasibility, planning, due diligence, and implementation. The Women’s Fund of Central Ohio, longtime leader of social change and disruptive innovation in Columbus, will act as a fiduciary agent to manage and disperse granted funds for both short-term institute design and implementation and long-term financial sustainability.

“Social change is already happening in our community—this monumental grant demonstrates confidence in the people who are best equipped to accelerate the critical work of building an equitable city,” said Kelley Griesmer, President & CEO of The Women’s Fund of Central Ohio. “Allowing women of color to address

the wealth barriers they face by designing economic solutions that imbed their lived experiences will help eliminate stark disparities that have existed for centuries.”

IMPACT Community Action is on the Front Lines In the War on Poverty.

By Bo Chilton, CEO

We are fighting poverty by providing hope-inspiring help and real opportunities for self-sufficiency. Historically, low-income people have been left out when plans about future growth and sustainability are being made. As part of our fight, we have undertaken bold new initiatives regarding climate justice, clean energy and green jobs.

Climate justice is a concept that addresses the just division, fair sharing, and equitable distribution of the burdens of climate change and its mitigation. It emphasizes fair, transparent and inclusive decision making, which entails basic respect and robust engagement with and fair consideration of diverse cultures and perspectives. Historically marginalized communities, such as low income, indigenous communities and communities of color often face the worst consequences of climate change: in effect the least responsible for climate change broadly suffer its gravest consequences.

We take pride in building partnerships that create collective impact and lasting change. Change that moves the needle starts with being in partnership with the people that we serve. We salute our community advocates and social justice warriors who work alongside us daily, fighting the good fight.

We also salute Congresswoman Beatty, Mayor Ginther and Columbus City Council, Franklin County Commissioners, AEP, the Columbus Partnership, the Energy Foundation and many other partners for their critically important role in helping us engage and serve our community in a more equitable way. We are excited to share just a few of the innovative programs and services that will be taking place over the next few years.

First, to our Congresswoman Beatty…words cannot express the depth of gratitude we have for you. We are honored to be included in this issue celebrating your leadership and legacy. Because of your efforts, championing our cause for a Federal earmark, IMPACT will receive $650K to build a Solar Workforce lab at our headquarters. Remembering the

two most important words your mother taught you…we simply say, Thank you!

IMPACT’s Solar Workforce lab would not have been possible without the guidance and support from The Columbus Partnership and The Franklin County Commissioners. Together, they provided technical expertise and the match dollars necessary to secure the Federal earmark.

We wholeheartedly want to thank Mayor Ginther, Columbus City Council and City leaders from Sustainable Columbus for their visionary leadership in creating the Columbus Climate Action Plan, www.columbus.gov/sustainable/cap. In partnership with AEP and the City of Columbus, we launched Empowered! This is a 12-week workforce training

program focused on clean energy, green jobs and climate justice. Participants earn while they learn and can receive as much as $400 per week. To date, we have seen 2 cohorts of 15 to 20 adults graduate and go on to pursue career paths that lead to family-sustaining wages. For more information about the Empowered! program, please contact Katie Devlin at empowered@impactca.org or call (614) 371-1245.

Additionally, IMPACT secured a $2 million dollar grant from the Department of Energy. We are 1 of only 4 demonstration grants in the country. In partnership with the residents of the American Addition neighborhood, Sustainable Co-

lumbus, AEP, and Homeport, we have an aspirational goal to make American Addition the first Net Zero Black Neighborhood in the U.S.

Finally, I want to thank the staff and IMPACT Advocates who are employees hired from the opportunity neighborhoods of Linden, American Addition, Southside and Franklinton. They have been the frontline champions and trusted voices who have engaged and educated their fellow neighbors on issues of climate justice, clean energy, and green jobs. Together, we can realize the lofty aims of the Columbus Climate Action Plan. The Climate Justice framework ensures equitable engagement of

marginalized communities and is built on a bottom-up philosophy as opposed to top down. As our region seeks to become the most prosperous region in the U.S., let us learn from the Climate Justice blueprint and fully embrace the ideal of One Columbus, prosperity for all.

Meet This Month’s

FEATURED COLUMNISTS

JONATHAN BEARD

CHRISTOPHER BROWN, MD

REBECCA COLLINS

LYNETTE DAVID MORGAN HARPER DEBA UWADIAE

Some Political Facts About Columbus You May Not Have Known

By Jonathan Beard

not stop south of the Mason-Dixon line -- but should include the specific and current reflections of Jim Crow here in Columbus, today.

larger pool of majority (typically White) voters. But not Columbus.

About a decade ago, the Columbus Community Relations Commission began sponsoring Heritage Tours for Columbus students to travel south to gain context and understanding about America’s racial history and civil rights. Over the past week, my Facebook and LinkedIn feeds were filled with pictures of young people at sites across the Deep South, learning our history. They traveled to places we’ve all heard of, and places not as well known, but critical for the fight for racial justice. It is undoubtedly a great experience for those students, and a great exposure to those great Americans and movements that opened America to its Black citizens.

It occurred to me that we should do a similar thing in Columbus— explore Columbus’s complicated racial history. The learning should

For instance, the year after Brown v. Board of Education desegregated America’s public schools, the Ohio General Assembly passed a law that for the first time allowed the boundaries of municipal school districts to vary from the city corporate limits – but only for the biggest Ohio cities (those with large Black populations). In Columbus, which was not landlocked by surrounding suburbs, this allowed for land to be annexed to Columbus, but remain in a suburban school district. And Columbus nearly doubled in size, while its school district boundaries remained the same: this so-called “win-win” policy continued the racial segregation of schools.

And when the Voting Rights Act of 1965 was passed, almost every big city that elected its council members in at-large (citywide) elections, rather than by geographically compact districts, moved to district elections under pressure from Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act, which says that geographically concentrated minority groups have a right to elect candidates of their own choosing, without having their votes diluted in a

Instead of allowing Black voters to elect candidates of their own choosing, since 1974 Columbus political leaders decided to select Black political leaders, in a “wink and a nod” to represent Black citizens. Most recently, every Black council member has been a city government employee prior to being nominated for council.

And in a November 2017 letter to the city council president, the NAACP Legal Defense Fund admonished that the current “fake districts” scheme is suspect because the “while this proposed voting structure may create the perception that voters will have a representative chosen by a neighborhood community, the maintenance of the underlying at-large voting scheme for all members of the city council will likely continue to unfailingly diminish the voices of Black voters in Columbus.” The majority Black council with a key vote by newcomer appointee Emmanuel Remy gave the council’s fake districts ballot issue its life.

Columbus is an interesting place to study race: let’s also teach our kids about the systems of racial oppression still going on here in Columbus.

Understanding Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

By Christopher Brown, MD

Whenever the heart beats, 20% of the blood reaches the kidneys. These two fist-sized organs are the body’s miraculous filters, contributing to blood cleaning, dehydration prevention, and creation of the active vitamin D. Unfortunately, certain conditions can harm the kidneys and result in chronic kidney disease (CKD), a worldwide health problem.

CKD affects one in seven Americans, with African Americans slightly more than whites, Asians, and Hispanics. The people at higher risk are older adults, African Americans, those with a family history of kidney disease, or suffering from diabetes or hypertension.

The kidneys are in the back below the ribcage and are about the size of a fist. They contribute to the following processes:

· Filter blood

· Regulate blood pressure

· Regulate the electrolyte level

· Manufacture vitamin D

· Play a role in red blood cells’ production, carrying oxygen to all body cells.

The kidneys’ primary function is to eliminate unneeded substances from the body, such as creatinine, a breakdown product of muscle turnover. This substance is useful in determining kidney function and is not necessarily harmful. A high creatinine level in the blood-

stream indicates that kidneys don’t do filtration well. The creatinine amount is used in calculating kidney number or “eGFR,” which tells you how much kidney function you have remaining. It is like a gas gauge; the higher the number, the better the kidney function, and the lower the number, the less kidney function you have.

The diagnosis of chronic kidney disease is based on two criteria: structural damage, such as many cysts, or evidence of damage, such as blood or protein. The other criterion is having a kidney number lower than 60 for over three months. The reduced kidney function may lead to dialysis or death. There are five stages of diagnosed chronic kidney disease. Stages one to four mean your kidneys are working fine, but there is some damage. Stage five is when you need dialysis or renal replacement therapy, such as a kidney transplant.

The most common causes of chronic kidney disease are high blood pressure and diabetes, but other conditions, such as lupus, may also put you at risk. The high number of certain medications, i.e., NSAIDs, may be harmful to the kidney and contribute to kidney disease.

Screening by your primary care clinician through blood or urine is the best way to check if you are at

risk of CKD. If you have CKD, you will be referred to a kidney specialist - a nephrologist for further assistance.

CKD can be a frightening diagnosis, inducing anxiety and fear in affected individuals and their families. However, with knowledge and action, the disease can be managed, prevented, or avoided in other individuals at risk of chronic kidney disease.

The information, contained in this article is for informational purposes only. The purpose of this article is to promote a broad understanding and knowledge of health topics for individuals.

Christopher Brown, MD, MPH, FACP, FNKF CEO/founder TheDocBrown

www.thedocbrown.com

Twitter @ChrisBrownMDMPH

IG @thedocbrown1

Keepin’ It Real in Real Estate

By Rebecca Collins

2. Create a Water Feature: Nothing is more calming than the sound of flowing water. You can install a small pond, fountain, or even a waterfall in your backyard. A pond can be home to aquatic plants and fish while a fountain can be as simple as a few rocks and a pump. A waterfall can be created by stacking rocks or adding a pre-made waterfall kit.

tertop or stand-alone island. With an outdoor kitchen, you can enjoy cooking while enjoying the fresh air and nature.

As summer quickly approaches, it’s the perfect time for Central Ohio residents to start thinking about how to transform their backyard into a backyard oasis! With a few simple changes, you can turn your outdoor space into a relaxing retreat where you can unwind after a long day, host barbecues, and create lasting memories with family and friends. Here are a few creative ways to transform your backyard into an oasis:

1. Add Landscaping Features: Start by adding some lush greenery, trees, and flowers to your backyard. Adding a flower bed, vegetable garden, or potted plants can also add a splash of color to your space. If you’re looking for privacy, consider adding a fence or planting a row of tall shrubs to create a natural barrier.

3. Install Outdoor Lighting: Lighting can set the mood for your backyard oasis. Install string lights or lanterns around your seating area to create a warm and inviting ambiance. Spotlights can also highlight your favorite features, like a water feature or a special plant.

4. Build a Fire Pit: A fire pit can add warmth and coziness to your backyard oasis, especially on cooler nights. You can build a simple fire pit with bricks or stones or invest in a pre-made one. Be sure to check with local regulations and guidelines before starting any fire.

5. Create an Outdoor Kitchen: If you love to cook and entertain, consider creating an outdoor kitchen in your backyard. A grill, fridge, and sink can be built into a coun-

6. Add Outdoor Seating: No oasis is complete without comfortable seating. You can add a hammock, swing, or outdoor couch to create a relaxing space to read, nap or spend time with friends and family. You can also invest in outdoor furniture that can withstand the elements.

In conclusion, creating a backyard oasis doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By adding some landscaping features, water features, lighting, a fire pit, an outdoor kitchen, and comfortable seating, you can transform your backyard into a relaxing oasis. By spending more time outside in your backyard oasis, you will be able to enjoy the many benefits of fresh air and sunshine. Start planning your backyard oasis today and enjoy the warm summer months in style!

*Bonus summer tip: Plant lemon grass in big pots for the patio. It repels mosquitoes and it grows tall!

Rebecca Collins, Realtor, GRI, SRS, CNE e-Merge Real Estate (614)565-9056

RebeccaCollins.e-Merge.com

Rebecca.Collins@e-Merge.com

Evangelist

By Lynette David

Be Steadfast! I Corinthians 15:58

With all the social media and this age of air brushing, photo filters and photo shop, it’s easy to get lost in the sauce of what it appears to be a perfect life for others. In many cases we are presented with a false perception of what everyone else is doing. And even how they are living life. Don’t be fooled by the artificial perceptions of success portrayed from a few photos. Someone else’s life is not what you’re striving to accomplish. The key is to remain focused and steadfast on your own journey of achieving goals. On your own divine purpose. Remember, what who you are and what you must contribute to this life is unique and needed. Build yourself up from the inside out.

You are special! This is true simply because of the mere fact that you were born and are here today. Your existence matters. Develop a strong morale for yourself. Choose to trust in God more than ever before while believing wholeheartedly in who He has created you to be. Seek Him to discover what it is that you should be doing in life. Determine who you should be doing it with and when you should be doing it. Doing the right thing at the wrong time is a disaster waiting to happen. It may appear as movement but won’t be real progress. We must aban-

don the notion we can obtain any healthy or truly successful lifestyle without process. It will take endurance and faithfulness to who we were created to be. This will fuel being strong, bold, unmovable and courageous because you will know in your heart and mind that you are building from an authentic place of personal purpose.

Here are a few important checkpoints that can help regarding self-worth which ultimately can impact remaining steadfast:

• Avoid being jealous of or in competition with others. There is never a reason that any of us should ever feel jealous or envious of other people, regardless of who they are or what they may have accomplished in life.

• Remember that you’re unique. Because we are all unique, the truth is that we need each other. Because we are entirely different, we can learn from and help one another.

• Know your value, determine your gifts and build on them. You will be glad you did. You are a blessing and worth loving. You are worth respecting. You are worth being treated very special. Thank God for your life!

• Develop your personal talents and skills. Accept what you have been graced to accomplish, as well as what you have not been graced to accomplish. Everybody can’t do everything. Period!

How Big Retailers Squash Small Businesses

By Morgan Harper

brands of granulated sugar. But shortly after Walmart Supercenters entered the Central Ohio grocery market in the early 2000s, Chad Brown explained how he noticed his supplier’s prices were surging. They rose so much that Carl Brown’s struggled to make a profit. Eventually, he was going to Walmart to buy sugar for the store because their prices were lower than he was paying wholesale. That’s when he knew it was over.

charged with regulating competition, only brought one RPA case between 1992 and 2014. The retail grocery industry massively consolidated and behemoths like Walmart began to reign supreme, contributing to the demise of Carl Brown’s and threatening any other entrepreneur daring to become a grocer.

For decades, Mr. Carl Brown Sr. and his independent grocery store on the Near East Side was synonymous with successful Black entrepreneurship, accessible food, and a business that felt like family. We used to swing by when I was little for items, and I felt tremendous pride seeing Carl Brown’s name on the paper bag, knowing it was a Black-owned business.

I had the chance to meet Carl Brown, Sr.’s son, Mr. Chad Brown, and get his take on those final years. I expected to hear about increased poverty and a dwindling customer base, theories typically advanced when Blackowned businesses close in predominantly Black neighborhoods. Instead, he wanted to talk about sugar and how Walmart forced his family out of business.

Carl Brown’s, like most grocery stores, always carried several

The dynamic where Walmart as a power buyer can purchase cheaper goods from manufacturers than small retailers is called “price discrimination” and is completely illegal. In 1936, Congress passed the Robinson-Patman Act (RPA) to ban price discrimination. The law intended to protect smaller grocers from A&P, a monopolist and the Walmart of the 1930s. The federal government enforced the law for decades and protected competition. During this period, a mix of retailers, from corner stores, small retailers like Carl Brown’s, and bigger brands such as Kroger and Big Bear operated in the same geographic markets.

Unfortunately, beginning in the 1970s, a school of thought emerged claiming bigger is more efficient and as long as prices are low, the government should stay out of it. Enforcement plummeted. In fact, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), a federal agency

But change is happening. Alvaro Bedoya, an FTC commissioner confirmed in 2022, gave an early speech on reviving RPA enforcement in September. Forty-three bipartisan members of Congress, including new Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, sent a letter last year to the FTC demanding more enforcement as well. And President Biden issued an executive order calling for a review of the RPA’s benefits.

Often, when businesses in our communities fail, explanations center around helplessness and blame, and certainly myriad factors contribute to any business’s closing. But the end of Carl Brown’s is a story of power and policy. Lax of government enforcement has stacked the deck in favor of big grocers with big campaign dollars. This is not a free market. To ensure we can innovate, build wealth, and honor the Brown family legacy, we all must become fierce anti-monopolists.

My America

By Deba Uwadiae

We were three kids dancing joyously to James Browns’ “Machine” song. The elderly, about five of them, were enjoying the “dancing competition” with great fun and excitement in their faces, cheering us on to keep rocking. The music came to an end, followed by clapping and more cheers. “You must go and dance in “America” for James Brown to know you,” one of the elderlies said to me, rubbing me on my head. It was my first time of hearing about a place called America, as one of the places over the seas. I was about five years old. But the picture of James Brown on the album, wearing the “afro hair” with tight fitting shirt and “labu” trousers as tagged, was capitative. The curiosity of a five years old!

Brother George, whose generosity we enjoyed in playing loud his music for us to enjoy, was a single man and one of the tenants in the two-story house with 12 rooms each on the three levels, and a room at the top of the building like a penthouse. There are other rooms at the side of the building, separate from the main building, making all 42 rooms in the house. We called the landlord, the Father Above. A generous man who will always come with gifts for the children of the tenants any time he came for his rent.

Over time, more tenants acquired record players and the “concerts” spread through other floors of the building. Then about three tenants bought television sets. In the evening, we will go to the room of anyone of them that is opened to the “public” and watch the movies. In one of the rooms, we watched the fight between one American, Muhammed Ali and another American, George Foreman. Then the American movies followed. The Wild, Wild West, Mission Impossible and others. More music and more sports. America of my childhood!

My interest in America became heightened when I became an athlete. I worked hard to get an opportunity to run in the Nigerian Olympic trials of 1988. My goal was winning the attention of the scouts and get a scholarship in any of the universities in the United States. I did the 800 meters but failed to qualify for a second round.

In 2011, I eventually arrived in America with my wife and three children on the Diversity Visa Program (Visa Lottery). The program provides for a class of immigrants known as “diversity immigrants” from countries with historically low rates of immigration to the United States.

We arrived at O’Hare Chicago Airport on June 7, 2011, and headed straight to Columbus, Ohio our destination to reside with our friend and his family. Columbus has become our home, Ohio our State and America our country after we became citizens in 2016.

I have witnessed more dancing, more sports and more experiences than I could imagine while living in Lagos, Nigeria hoping to come to “My America”.

Celebrating Joyce Beatty’s 10th Congressional Anniversary

Photo by Ira Graham III

Ira Graham Photography

Who is Joyce Beatty?

Elected To the House of Representatives January 3rd, 2013 to serve the Citizens of Ohio’s 3rd Congressional District

Astrong Black woman whose influence and power is known to connect people, policy, and politics, the Honorable Joyce Beatty celebrates her tenth year serving Ohio’s Third Congressional District.

From Day One, Congresswoman Beatty made a commitment to enact substantive change in Central Ohio and beyond. Upon arrival, Beatty was appointed by Congressional leadership to serve on the exclusive House Financial Services Committee, where

she made history as the first-ever Chairwoman of the Diversity and Inclusion Subcommittee. Chairwoman Beatty shook up the nation – bringing the largest banks in the country before her to testify and moved the needle toward tremendous progress in diversity, equity, and inclusion. She continues to serve on the Financial Services Committee as Ranking Member of the National Security, Illicit Finance, and International Financial Institutions Subcommittee.

Never forgetting the community that elected her to Congress, Be-

atty hit the ground running on the first day in office, bringing home $30 million in federal funds to help revitalize the Near East Side. Beatty’s efforts continued to prove instrumental in securing nearly $4 million in federal funds to address Columbus’ infant mortality rate, which was one of the highest in the country.

Her legislative action and services are matched by her work to bring home millions of dollars in investments to Columbus and all of Central Ohio – most recently securing more than $18 million

Chair Beatty in action while overseeing a hearing on Financial Services

in community project funding that have already begun to revitalize our community.

In her time as Congresswoman of the Third Congressional District, Beatty has devoted her service to advancing a plethora of legislative initiatives to improve the lives and livelihoods of those she represents.

Most recently as the nation witnessed unprecedented attacks ranging from our education system to our civil rights, Congresswoman Beatty led the charge in Congress to preserve Black history in America’s classrooms when she introduced the Black History is American History Act, legislation that would mandate the inclusion of Black history as a required

component of the American History and Civics Academies’ competitive grants administered by the U.S. Department of Education.

Beatty has also consistently stood up for Americans’ most sacred rights and freedoms. Elected as the ninth woman Chair of the esteemed Congressional Black Caucus (CBC), she followed in the footsteps of Founder Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm – carrying on a tradition of Unbought and Unbossed – including when she was recently arrested for advocating for the reauthorization of the 1965 Voting Rights Act.

Her leadership as Chairwoman helped to advance and support the nomination and confirmation

of United States Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, the first Black woman to sit on the bench. Beatty was invited as the singular Member of the U.S. House of the Representatives to testify on her behalf.

In her tenure as Chairwoman, many will remember when she was credited with doing what no other lawmaker could do – negotiating a historic $1.2 trillion Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Additionally, she spearheaded efforts to secure vital relief for Americans amid the COVID-19 pandemic, secured critical investments in climate reform and environmental justice, delivered historic funding for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), passed

the first gun violence legislation in nearly three decades.

A close ally and friend to the White House, Beatty served as a key advisor to President Biden as he drafted the 2022 Executive Order addressing police brutality. Beatty led the first Congressional briefing in Vice President Kamala Harris’ ceremonial office, and continues to work closely with the Vice President on key issues.

No stranger to proximity with the Oval Office now or during President Obama’s Administration, it was Beatty who influenced President Obama to include the statement “When women succeed, America succeeds” in his second State of the Union Address.

A longtime advocate to end human trafficking, Congresswoman Beatty has consistently championed efforts to combat child sex trafficking, including through her legislation that unanimously passed the House of Represen-

tatives and was signed into law as part of a larger measure, the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act, by President Obama.

As the daughter and sister of public school educators, Congresswoman Beatty recognizes the need to invest in our nation’s teachers who are preparing the students of today and our next generation of leaders, evident through her legislation, known as the Reimburse Educators who Pay for Academic Year (REPAY) Supplies Act.

Beatty has also long prioritized investing in affordable housing. In fact, her first job out of college was through a Dayton Urban League placement at the Dayton Metropolitan Housing Authority. She carries on her commitment to the present day. As a Congresswoman, Beatty has introduced the Housing Financial Literacy Act to improve first-time homebuyers’ financial knowledge by providing a discount on Federal Housing Administration (FHA) backed

mortgage insurance premiums upon successful completion of a HUD certified housing counseling course.

She has additionally introduced the Free Credit Score Act, legislation to require consumer reporting agencies to include a credit score when providing consumers with a free annual credit report. Furthermore, Beatty has authored the Jumpstart Housing Opportunities Utilizing Small Enterprises (HOUSE) Act,or Jumpstart HOUSE Act, to help increase the supply of quality, affordable housing for hardworking families, while at the same time increase the availability of credit for small businesses, generate jobs and stimulate economic development.

As Congresswoman Beatty marks her 10-year anniversary serving Ohio’s Third Congressional District, she takes pride in her powerful role as the White House Liaison for the Democratic Women’s Caucus, where she works alongside the Biden-Harris Administration to ensure that women’s voices across this nation are heard in the most powerful halls of Washington. She remains committed to advocating for the issues impacting every American, including voting rights and civil rights, police brutality, financial inequality, diversity and inclusion, healthcare access, education, and gun violence prevention.

Beatty first answered the call to serve when she was elected to the Ohio House of Representatives in 1999, representing the 27th House

District. During her tenure in the Ohio House, she rose to prominence as the first female Democratic House Leader in Ohio’s history, where she was instrumental in authoring and enacting legislation to require financial literacy in Ohio’s public school curriculum, expanding STEM education, and securing funds to help under- and uninsured women access breast and cervical cancer treatment. As a State Representative, Beatty spearheaded legislation to designate December 1st as “Rosa Parks Day” in the State of Ohio—mak-

On Airforce One with President Obama

ing the Buckeye State the first in the nation to formally legislatively recognize the civil rights icon. Thanks to her work, Ohio’s annual Rosa Parks tribute has engaged thousands of children and community leaders across the state to celebrate Mrs. Parks’ legacy. Beatty reminds us that by taking a seat, Rosa Parks stood up for millions of Americans. And today, a major thoroughfare in the center of downtown Columbus, known as ‘Rosa Parks Way,’ now exists as a way to honor Parks’ transformative service to our nation.

No stranger to community collaboration and public service, Congresswoman Beatty remains active in numerous organizations such as The Links, Incorporated, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Columbus Urban League, and The American Heart Association. Beatty has been listed as one of Ebony Magazine’s 150 most powerful African-Americans in the United States.

A true Ohioan, Beatty received her Bachelor of Arts from Central State University, her Master of Science from Wright State University, and completed all requirements for her dissertation for a doctorate at the University of Cincinnati. In addition, she has been awarded four honorary doctorate degrees from Ohio Dominican University, Central State University, Capital University Law School, and The Ohio State University.

Congresswoman Beatty was a loving, devoted wife and partner to attorney Otto Beatty, Jr. until his death in 2021 and is a proud grandmother to Leah and Spencer, who lovingly call her “Grammy.”

Giving Voice to the Next Generation

By Alisha Martin

In honor of this special edition of Mahogany Columbus celebrating the positive achievements of women in our city, I would like to take the time to reference a notable speech in women’s history that was first delivered in our great State of Ohio.

At the 1851 Women’s Rights Convention in Akron, Ohio, Sojourner Truth delivered her most famous speech “Ain’t I A Woman” to advocate for voting rights for women and Black people.

I competed in a speech meet competition as a kid and won an award for reciting this same speech. As I began to memorize her words, I started to also internalize her message. This was a very impressionable time for me as a young 11-year-old girl attempting to process everything Sojourner was trying to convey during this most important time in in our country’s history. I began to realize the power of advocacy, and the power of seizing the moment.

This speech was delivered 172 years ago, and the impact can still be felt today. Much of the tone is

rooted in equity, fairness, and basic human and civil rights.

To all the women featured in this special issue and reading these words, I pray you are honored, respected, seen, elevated, regarded, heard, loved and protected!

AIN’T I A WOMAN?

By Sojourner Truth

Well, children, where there is so much racket there must be something out of kilter. I think that ‘twixt the negroes of the South and the women at the North, all talking about rights, the white men will be in a fix pretty soon. But what’s all this here talking about?

That man over there says that women need to be helped into carriages, and lifted over ditches, and to have the best place everywhere. Nobody ever helps me into carriages, or over mud-puddles, or gives me any best place! And ain’t I a woman? Look at me! Look at my arm! I have ploughed and planted, and gathered into barns, and no man could head me! And ain’t I a woman? I could work as much and eat as much as a man - when I could get it - and bear the lash as well! And ain’t I a woman? I have borne thirteen children, and seen most all sold off to slavery, and when I cried out with my mother’s grief, none but Jesus heard me! And ain’t I a woman?

Then they talk about this thing in the head; what’s this they call it? [member of audience whispers, “intellect”] That’s it, honey. What’s that got to do with women’s rights or negroes’ rights? If my cup won’t hold but a pint, and yours holds a quart, wouldn’t you be mean not to let me have my little half measure full?

Then that little man in black there, he says women can’t have as much rights as men, ‘cause Christ wasn’t a woman! Where did your Christ come from? Where did your Christ come from? From God and a woman! Man had nothing to do with Him.

If the first woman God ever made was strong enough to turn the world upside down all alone, these women together ought to be able to turn it back and get it right side up again! And now they is asking to do it, the men better let them.

Obliged to you for hearing me, and now old Sojourner ain’t got nothing more to say.”

SPEECH GIVEN IN 1851 AT A WOMEN’S RIGHTS CONVENTION IN AKRON, OHIO

Photo by Ira Graham III

Ira Graham Photography

Munira Abdullahi

Ohio House of Representative, District 9

It’s hard to tell time by revolutionary clocks.” That observation by historian Lerone Bennett Jr. in an essay about the turbulent times of the late 1960s is equally apt today when trying to properly understand the dynamics of important political representation. Ohio has been on the winning side of nearly every presidential election since 1964. With its geographic and religious diversity, the state is increasingly seen as a microcosm for American voting preference at large. Munira Yasin Abdullahi represents that diversity. She is an American politician representing Ohio House District 9. She is the first Somali American Muslim woman to serve in the state house.

Abdullahi’s family left Somalia when she was three years old and moved to an apartment in the Northside neighborhood of Columbus, Ohio. Abdullahi graduated from Columbus Alternative High School and completed a bachelor’s degree in political science at the Ohio State University.

State Rep. Munira Yasin Abdullahi was recently elected to serve as Vice Chair of the Ohio Democratic Women’s Legislative Caucus (ODWLC) for the 135th General Assembly. The mission of the Ohio Democratic Women’s Legislative Caucus is to develop and pass policies and legislation that improve the lives of Ohio women and their families; to identify and support emerging women leaders by serving as mentors; to educate and empower women and increase women’s involvement in public life and in the Ohio General Assembly.

“Women’s issues are always at the forefront of my priorities, so I am grateful to serve as Vice Chair of this caucus by and for women,” said Rep. Munira. “I am looking forward to working with my fellow caucus members in continuing to address pressing women’s issues, such as the gender pay gap, women’s right to choose, maternal mortality rates, and more, as it impacts all women and particularly as it impacts women that face additional economical, racial, and health barriers.”

Representative Abdullahi recognizes that while the country’s hypocritical immigration laws bar some residents from becoming full-fledged citizens with the attendant right to vote, people of color still account for 36 percent of all eligible voters in the state of Ohio. She provides perspective and understanding about children in immigrant families who are regularly at the center of major public policy discussions and guides constructive conversations about how to support these children and their families.

These racial and ethnic realities matter because, in a country with centuries of racial oppression and a continuing gargantuan racial wealth gap, people of color, as a group, have more progressive politics than whites. Abdullahi looks to make her mark and her name fighting for peace, justice, and equality with an unapologetic racial lens.

The demographic and campaign finance revolutions have changed the calculus and formulas for how elections unfold. While it is hard to tell time by revolutionary clocks, those who appreciate the profound changes taking place in politics have seen that Munira Adullahi’s success in becoming a State Representative for Ohio may in fact be right on time.

Photo by Ira Graham III

Ira Graham Photography

Trudy Bartley

Associate Vice President, Local Government & Community Affairs

The Ohio State University

Trudy represents the university with local government and community by establishing relationships with community leaders, participating in community organizations/activities and fostering community and university partnerships; monitors, researches and/or analyzes local government legislative and regulatory issues; responsible for developing high level strategies to create and strengthen local government and community relations; actively focuses on strategic university engagement and enhanced goodwill toward the university. Represents the University on supporting the OSU work on boards, committees and ad hoc groups

Chaired the Franklin County Board of Commissioners Poverty Taskforce, a group of 30 + Franklin County residents, public, private, and nonprofit leaders. The yearlong process resulted in the development and creation of the County’s Rise Together Blueprint. The Blueprint called “the people’s plan encompasses 13 goals and 120 actions to assist individuals in poverty with resources and opportunity to realize their ideas of success and a sustainable household. The taskforce led to the Franklin County commissioners passing a resolution stating “Racism is a Public Health Crisis” as well as the development of the Rise Together Innovation Center a newly created 501©3 that will align resources and innovated ideas to lessen the poverty rate in Franklin County. Trudy currently is Board Chair of the Rise Institute.

As the former Executive Director and current Board Chair of Partners Achieving Community Transformation (PACT), an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to the comprehensive redevelopment of the Near East Side neighborhood of Columbus, Ohio; Trudy was responsible for spearheading the strategic implementation of the Blueprint for Community Investment, a detailed master plan focused on revitalizing the Near East Side. Distinguished by its bottom-up approach to revitalizing a historic neighborhood.

Prior to coming to the Ohio State University Trudy served as Deputy Director of Development for the City of Columbus. Following her career at the City she served as President of Diversified Development Group, a minority real estate development company and then moved on to work for the Ohio Department of Development, where she served as the Chief Operating Officer, as well as positions of Interim Director of the Minority Business Enterprise Division and Federal Stimulus Coordinator. Trudy currently serves on the Board of Trustees or a commission member for The Franklin County Parks and Recreation Board of Trustees (Columbus Clippers), The Columbus Downtown Development Corporation, Chaired the 2022 Columbus Charter Review Commission, , Chair of the RISE Institute, Past Chair and Board member of Central Ohio Transit Authority, ADAMH, PACT, KIPP Columbus, The Neighborhood Design Center. In her past boards and commission service, she served as Chair of the New Albany Community Authority, The New Albany Planning Commission, WOSU, River South Community Authority, Columbus School for Girls, YWCA, COVA, The United Way of Central Ohio and , Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission

Trudy was born and raised in Columbus, Ohio, a graduate of Columbus School for Girls and has a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Political Science from Wellesley College.

Lourdes Barroso de Padilla

City Council Member City of Columbus

Lourdes Barroso de Padilla has an extensive background in youth development and leadership. She has served with City Year, an education focused organization dedicated to helping students and schools succeed for more than 20 years. Barroso de Padilla has helped to found five of City Year’s twenty-nine sites across the country and has worked at all levels of the organization. She is a certified Youth Development Trainer and was awarded the Hewlett Packard Alumni Leadership Award in for her impact and service to the organization.

Barroso de Padilla is a graduate of Project Diversity, Leadership Columbus, and the Academy for Leadership and Governance Executive Fellowship program. She has served as a Commissioner with the Ohio Latino Affairs Commission, as a founding member of the Create Columbus Commission and as a board member for Directions for Youth and Families, the YWCA Columbus, and as a member of the United Way’s Education Impact Council and Diversity and Inclusion Committee. Currently, she serves as Vice Chair of MORPC’s Regional Policy Roundtable, is a member of the New Leader’s Council Advisory Board, and is a Greater Columbus Arts Council board member.

As Senior Vice President of Site Stakeholder Engagement for City Year Inc. Barroso de Padilla oversees the organization’s major gifts, corporate and grant programs. Since its inception more than a decade ago Barroso de Padilla has led and currently serves on the Board for the Latina Mentoring Academy a unique professional development and mentoring program for Latinas in Central Ohio.

Barroso de Padilla was featured in the inaugural editions of The Women’s Book and Who’s Who in Latino Columbus as well as WELD Ohio’s Women Welding the Way Calendar. She has been honored as one of Business First’s 40 under 40, and was named a Distinguished Hispanic Ohioan by the Ohio Commission on Latino Affairs. In November of 2021, Barroso de Padilla made history by becoming the first Latina to be elected as a member of the Columbus City Council.

Lourdes is a bilingual first-generation Cuban American who was born and raised on the eastside of Columbus and is a product of the Columbus public school system. She resides with her husband, Ernesto, and daughters, Eva and Valentina in Eastmoor.

Photo by Ira Graham III

Ira Graham Photography

Lilleana (Lilly) Cavanaugh, MBA, CPM

Executive Director

Ohio Latino Affairs Commission

Lilly serves as Executive Director for the Ohio Commission on Hispanic/Latino Affairs, with the mandates to advise the Governor and legislators on issues impacting Hispanic Ohioans, to connect Latino and Latino serving organizations across the state, and to build capacity and leadership among Latino serving organizations in Ohio. Mrs. Cavanaugh has been directly engaged with the Latino community in Ohio for 26 years; the last fifteen serving in a statewide capacity with the Commission. She has played a key role in building collaboration and partnerships among government entities, community-based organizations, and the private sector to improve the quality of life and opportunities for Hispanic Ohioans and other ethnic minorities. She is originally from Costa Rica and has lived and worked in Latin America, Africa, South East Asia, Europe, and the United States.

Currently, Lilly serves on the National Hispanic & Latino Mental Health Technology Transfer Center Board, Mount Carmel Foundation Board, the Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED) President’s Diversity Advisory Council. She is a member of the Ohio’s Secretary of State’s Diversity and Empowerment Council and served in the COVID-19 Minority Health Strike Force Team under Governor Mike DeWine.

Among her current roles in other advisory boards, she serves on the Ohio Department of Education Whole Child Advisory Committee, Ohio’s Council on Maternal Health and the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services Disparities and Cultural Competence Advisory Committee, the Ohio Institute of Communities of Color, and the President’s Advisory Council on Race at Otterbein University.

Lilly is a Certified Public Manager and has an associate degree in Business from Sinclair Community College, a bachelor’s degree in Management from the University of Phoenix, and a master’s degree in Business Administration from Capella University.

Photo by Ira Graham III

Ira Graham Photography

Erika Clark Jones

Chief Executive Officer

Alcohol, Drug and Mental Health Board of Franklin County (ADAMH)

Collaboration has been a guiding principle for Erika Clark Jones throughout her more than 22 years as a public servant in local government, working on behalf of marginalized populations across central Ohio.

With a strong faith background and concern for communities, Erika has a record of inclusive leadership rooted in humility and transparency with an emphasis on execution, quality improvement and meeting targeted outcomes that improve lives.

Erika notes that the brightest moments in her career were earned working with coalitions of public, private, non-profit and community stakeholders. Highlights include reducing infant deaths in Franklin County by 23 percent over three years, improving health care access with the construction and support for two federally qualified community health centers and the current development of a $59 million community behavioral health crisis care facility.

A Columbus native, Erika’s leadership experience spans across public health, public affairs and public policy. Her career includes 19 years in the Office of the Mayor for the City of Columbus including time as Deputy Director of the Community Relations Commission, Policy Director, and Director of the Office of Homeless Advocacy. Additionally, Erika led the CelebrateOne initiative to reduce infant mortality in central Ohio and the Southern Gateway initiative to improve neighborhood conditions on Columbus’ South Side.

In January 2020, Erika became CEO for the Alcohol, Drug and Mental Health Board of Franklin County (ADAMH). She is the first CEO of color since the agency was founded in 1968.

ADAMH leads the planning, funding and evaluation of mental health and addiction services for residents of Franklin County and contracts with more than 30 non-profit behavioral health providers to deliver quality services in neighborhoods across the community.

ADAMH is supported through a voter-approved property tax levy, providing $80 million or 73% of the agency’s $122 million budget in 2023. Levy dollars, leveraged with federal, state, local and philanthropic funds, ensure that mental health and addiction prevention, treatment and recovery support services are available, regardless of race, income, zip code and insurance status.

As ADAMH CEO, Erika has navigated the organization through the COVID-19 pandemic and secured the passage of a five-year, 2.2 mil operating levy with 70% approval from Franklin County voters. During her tenure, ADAMH has helped to redefine and fund lifesaving pathways for those in crisis. The cornerstone of this work is the new Franklin County Crisis Care Center, which began construction in April. When it opens in 2025, a no-wrong-door approach will ensure that any adult arriving at the crisis center receives services regardless of ability to pay.

Erika’s commitment to bringing people together to get things done extends to her volunteer work. She currently serves on the boards of Capital University and the Columbus YWCA and chairs the OneOhio Region 1 Committee to distribute settlement funds to communities ravaged by the national opiate epidemic. Erika also served on the board of the Columbus Metropolitan Library for 14 years and led multiple voter registration and mobilization efforts.

Erika earned a bachelor’s degree from Capital University and a master’s degree in Public Policy and Administration from Northwestern University. She also completed the Harvard University Young American Leadership Program. Erika and her husband Mark have a blended family of five children and a dog named Keno.

Photo by Ira Graham III

Ira Graham Photography

Edwina Blackwell Clark

Executive Editor

Columbus Dispatch

With a view of the Ohio Statehouse from her office window, Edwina Blackwell Clark can see a lot about Columbus. As the new Executive Editor of the Columbus Dispatch, it’s her job to know what is happening in the city so the Dispatch reflects the people and the issues impacting Columbus and Central Ohio.

The change in leadership is noticeable. When Blackwell Clark was appointed last June, she became the first African American and woman to lead the Dispatch after 150 years. It is a distinct honor rooted in decades of media experience and multiple executive leadership roles for her. Being the Dispatch Executive Editor however is extra special, she said, because the opportunity to make a significant impact in the community is so great. “Ohio is my home and to have the chance to lead the state’s leading news organization is a chance of a lifetime,” Blackwell Clark said. “Columbus is a wonderful, diverse, growing metro area and at the Dispatch we want to make sure that our content reflects those issues, trends, and problems our community is faced with. But that is nothing new. We also continue to hold elected officials accountable and keep being truth seekers in this community,” she said.

Recently, the Central Ohio Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists awarded the Dispatch the First Amendment Award for an investigation into the state medical board and doctors who sexually abuse or harass patients. It’s an example of the impactful journalism the Dispatch continues to do, she said.

More recently the newspaper kicked off a nine-month look at gun violence in the community. “Every week it seems we talk in our news meetings about someone else being killed primarily through gunfire. This community must have a larger conversation about the proliferation of guns and the violence occurring. We’re going to use the power of our multi-media storytelling to help the community understand what is happening in our neighborhoods and our schools. Then I hope the Dispatch can be a conduit to seek broader solutions,” she said.

People turn to the Dispatch for all types of coverage, whether it is coverage of the state legislature, The Ohio State University and the Buckeyes or things to do. Dispatch.com has the largest online audience in the region and Blackwell Clark said she will continue to accelerate the newsroom’s digital-first approach. Her priorities are simple: strong local journalism, continued digital innovation and deeper community engagement. She said the great thing is that news and information are delivered in multiple ways - print, video, audio podcasts, email newsletters and news alerts.

Each month, an average of 3 million visitors read news on Dispatch.com. That shows the power of the Dispatch’s brand.

As the Dispatch prepares to enter its 152nd year of serving this community, Blackwell Clark said it’s more important than ever to have a strong local media source that can provide a balanced view on important issues.

Photo by Ira Graham III

Ira Graham Photography

Janelle Coleman

Vice President of Community Engagement

President AEP Foundation, Leadership of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

American Electric Power (AEP)

When AEP approached Janelle Coleman about stepping back into the corporate world in the fall of 2020, she had just left a 13-year career of leading community relations at L Brands to join a nonprofit.

“We were in the middle of a pandemic and had witnessed the brutal murder of George Floyd. My husband and I talked it over, and he asked, ‘where are you going to make the biggest impact -at AEP or at the non-profit where I had recently taken a senior leadership role?’ ” recalls Coleman, who was also influenced by a widely published letter AEP’s then-CEO Nick Akins wrote about George Floyd.

Coleman joined AEP as vice president of community engagement and president of the AEP Foundation. In less than a year, she also took on leadership of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.

“Although DEI was not a part of my title and daily work, it is inherent in community engagement. Our philanthropy addresses disparities often created by systems that have held people back for generations. For me, it was a natural extension of making a difference,” Coleman said.

Under Coleman’s leadership and with support from her team, the CEO, senior executive team, and AEP Foundation board, AEP has made great strides, including the following.

• Creating the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Accessibility (IDEA) Summit, which featured New York Times Best-Selling author and Harvard professor Robert Livingston. Dr. Livingston presented his book “The Conversation” to more than 200 leaders.

• Launching AEP Foundation’s Delivering on the Dream grant to support social and racial justice. AEP debuted its first social justice commercial in 2022. The awareness campaign reached an audience of 3.2 million across AEP’s 11-state area.

• Establishing the AEP Foundation Center for Racial Equity with a $1 million Delivering on the Dream grant to the YWCA Columbus.

• Grew participation by 4% in employee resource groups in 2022, year over year. So far in 2023, ERG membership has jumped another 4%. ERGs provide a workplace community for employees with shared interests and identities.

Focusing on improving lives where AEP’s customers and employees live, AEP’s giving totaled more than $30 million in 2022 to support education, hunger, housing and social justice.

This year, AEP launches 25 by 25 to grow volunteerism to at least 25% of its employees by 2025. “We have a giving culture, and employees are doing great things that help our nonprofit partners and our communities. We’re measuring it and recognizing employees for it,” Coleman said. Coleman brings more than 20 years of experience in community engagement. She serves on the boards of Ohio University, Experience Columbus, YWCA Columbus, National Veterans Memorial and Museum and the KIPP Columbus Foundation.

The Ohio native is excited about the future of Columbus and our region. “We are growing and become a more diverse and vibrant city. I love it! We need to ensure that we are creating opportunities for everyone to be successful and to create a sense of belonging and ownership of our community. That’s how we’ll continue to be a great community.”

Photo by Ira Graham III

Ira Graham Photography

Erica C. Crawley, J.D., M.P.A.

Franklin County Commissioner

It’s hard to tell Commissioner Erica C. Crawley is a mother, advocate, and veteran. As the first Black woman Commissioner, her commitment to serving every resident, every day comes from her lived experiences and deep understanding of what working families need to thrive, and not just survive. Commissioner Crawley has always stood with the most vulnerable among us – working to ensure access to high-quality childcare, affordable housing, supportive addiction, mental health treatment, better maternal health outcomes, and first-rate veteran services for those who have bravely served our nation. She currently serves on numerous boards.

Like so many of her constituents, Commissioner Crawley has known what it’s like to fight and work hard to get ahead. Originally from Youngstown, Commissioner Crawley’s family reflected the story of successes and struggles that so many families share in our community. She is a first-generation college graduate, obtaining a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminology, focusing on juvenile delinquency from Cleveland State University. She also holds a master’s degree in Public Administration from Walden University and a Juris Doctor from Capital University Law School.

Crawley has spent much of her life making a difference by serving others and helping them find their voice. She served in the United States Navy earning the Naval & Marine Corps Achievement Medal and the National Defense Service Medal. Additionally, she has advocated on behalf of children and families with the Cuyahoga County Job & Family Services, YMCA Head Start/ Early Head Start Program, Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children (CASA), and the Black Child Development Institute.

In 2018, Crawley was elected to represent Ohio’s 26th House District, which included much of eastern and southeastern Franklin County. During her time in the legislature, her priorities focused on maternal health, infant mortality, birth-to-five initiatives, housing and food insecurity, and veteran issues. Crawley served on the House Finance Committee, Finance Subcommittee on Primary & Secondary Education, Primary & Secondary Committee, Armed Services & Veterans Affairs, Correctional Institution Inspection Committee (CIIC), and was appointed to the Governor’s Commission on Infant Mortality, the Commission on Minority Health and was a founding member of Ohio’s Black Maternal Health Caucus.

Commissioner Crawley is the mother of twin girls. She enjoys spending time with them and traveling with family and friends.

Photo by Ira Graham III

Ira Graham Photography

Leah F. Evans President and CEO

Homeport

Homeport is pushing the Central Ohio housing industry forward not only with new housing developments but with a people focused approach to its work. For over 35 years Homeport has been making neighborhood-based investments and partnering with the community by turning shovels to build 43 communities, with 2,736 apartments and homes for nearly 7,000 residents. It is the largest, locally based affordable housing provider in Central Ohio. A strong go-to agency that serves as a major provider of housing, both rental and for-sale, social services, homebuyer education, and financial fitness.

Last year, Leah Evans assumed the top job at Homeport as the non-profit organization continues to grapple with the mounting housing challenges of a growing region. Over 54,000 lower income families in Central Ohio currently pay at least half their income to rent causing housing instability. The problem is magnified by the current and projected population growth and escalating real estate prices.

Leah is proud to work alongside Homeport’s team to tackle these issues with collaborative action using strategic investment, aligning housing goals with economic development, transportation, and infrastructure. Her track record relies on leadership principles she carries with her to “learn and be curious.” Curiosity about community development and housing issues is key. How do our homes shape who we are, how we think of others, and who we think belongs? We often talk about the work in terms of numbers and those are important, but they are easy measurements. What doesn’t get talked about as much is the impact, what it does for people to have secure housing. Why it matters to have public-private collaborations to advance housing. It’s for the resident who live with us but also for the broader community,” she says. “I’m hoping that we can elevate the conversation and not just talk about what we do but what will be changed by what we do and how that’s measured in the impacts we’re having on people’s lives. Describing housing without understanding ‘belonging’ is to speak of statistics without purpose, place without human texture, buildings not homes.”

No two days are alike at Homeport, whether Evans is testifying at the Statehouse in support of a proposed Workforce Housing Tax Credit Program or visiting with older residents at the annual Senior Prom, the work continues, and each action Homeport takes with the community builds upon itself. Evans shares this is why she was drawn to this work, it is collaborative and iterative, cooperative, and evolving and can bring out the best in people.

Raised in Cleveland Heights, Leah credits her parents for instilling in her the value of hard work and service. She sees building places of belonging as a service to the community and central to who she is.

Evans holds a master’s degree in City & Regional Planning and a B.A in Urban Geography from The Ohio State University. She is a fellow with the African American Leadership Academy and a graduate of the NeighborWorks Achieving Excellence Program at the Harvard Kennedy School.

Photo by Ira Graham III

Ira Graham Photography

Dr. Shari Hicks-Graham

Board Certified Dermatologist Downtown Dermatology

In her 18-year career as a board-certified dermatologist and two-time entrepreneur, Columbus native Dr. Shari Hicks-Graham is one of a few Black dermatologists in the Columbus area.

“Columbus is home for me. My grandparents moved from Louisiana in the 1940s and served in leadership roles at Mt. Olivet Baptist Church, which is located only a few blocks from our current office location in downtown Columbus,” says Hicks-Graham.

Hicks-Graham is a graduate of Spelman College and the School of Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh. She completed a research fellowship at Harvard’s Wellman School of Photomedicine. She also served as an intern in the Department of Internal Medicine at the Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. Her dermatology residency was completed from 2002 to 2005 at the Los Angeles County Medical Centers. She returned to the area in 2005 after completing her training.

“My father also practiced medicine at Grant Medical Center and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, so I feel very grounded in our community. The support and mutual understanding runs deep and is very meaningful to me daily,” she says.

At her practice, Downtown Dermatology, Hicks-Graham and her team help people with many different types of skin conditions, including general medical and aesthetic dermatology, and surgical procedures. She also performs skin screenings for skin cancer and treats common skin conditions, such as acne, psoriasis and eczema.

“Everyone has a story that impacts their experience with their own personal health and interactions with healthcare professionals,” Hicks-Graham says. “It may relate to their childhood, family history or recent events, particularly since 2020 with COVID-19 and the struggles that our country faces around racism and inequality relating to other social determinants of health.”

Treatments for hair disorders are also part of her general medical practice including diseases of the scalp and hair. Her patients with textured kinky and curly hair had the most difficulty finding relief from their scalp conditions and often objected to how their hair looked and felt with prescription shampoos and topical therapies. She saw the embarrassment and emotional stress that this caused, so she created a solution. In 2017, Hicks-Graham launched LivSo, a product line that treats dry, itchy scalp specifically for people with curly hair.

“My job as a dermatology physician is to listen and offer my best medical treatments and recommendations for lifestyle modifications so that people can experience their best life, feeling less encumbered by what ails them,” she says. Also, building patient trust is at the center of her work.

“I am grateful that my patients trust me, and I have worked intentionally to remain present despite the challenges of private practice. My goal is to remain as available to and transparent with patients as possible so that they may continue to have access to the healthcare that they deserve.”

Stephanie Hightower President and CEO

Columbus Urban League

For more than 105 years, your Columbus Urban League (CUL) has stood as an advocate and resource for Black and urban communities. Our dedication to growing wealth, education, earning power and small businesses while supporting strong families forces us to constantly evolve.

And our latest evolution calls us to: Reframe our thinking; Rewrite our dialogue; and reshape our priorities.

Why reframe? Because everything we believe or do starts in our own head, or more specifically, with our perceptions. Our team at CUL team has dug deep into this idea when exploring the asset-framing approach championed by Trabian Shorters. Shorters explains how we, as humans, pay more attention to the negative facts than positive ones. Lots of research over the years prove that negative impressions and stereotypes are quicker to form and harder to change.

Ever wonder why society today still reports data and statistics with a view of what’s wrong or missing?

I’ve been as guilty of this type of thinking as everyone else. I grew up believing that you focus on the problem to be solved, the challenge to be overcome. You build a case for support by presenting difficult facts, like “Nearly half of Black children live in poverty” or “Black women earn the least per hour for their hard work.”

Sobering truths may motivate us to act. But they should not guide our initiatives to achieve social justice, racial equity and an inclusive economy. Singular focus on what is wrong does not necessarily lead us to what’s right.

Worse, this practice results in labels that reinforce the very stereotype we hope to rise above. For instance, calling Columbus Urban League staff “case managers.” What does that say to our clients, except that they’re cases to be managed?

We unintentionally prolong that which we aspire to change.

How does the conversation change when we replace the label “at-risk child” with “near-potential child?” Every child, every family has talents, gifts, assets and unrealized abilities. Let’s nurture and develop them.

That doesn’t mean we ignore or diminish the challenges poor children and children of color face. Failing schools, drugs and violence in their neighborhood, fewer mentors and role models to coach them, our children may experience these things.

Reframing our internal narratives helps rewrite the entire community’s dialogue. Consider these facts:

• Black women are the fastest growing segment of entrepreneurs today.

• Black men are among the most involved fathers and the group most likely to serve in our country’s armed forces.

• In 2021, 26% of Black adults ages 25 and older had earned a bachelor’s degree or more, up from 15% in 2000.

Doesn’t it make sense to invest in these upcoming leaders? Wouldn’t it be amazing to see what they could do if someone stretched out a hand or removed a barrier?

It’s a different conversation when we focus on strengths and successes. Once we’ve reframed our thinking and rewritten our dialogue, we can begin reshaping our priorities – and realizing our full potential.

Lark Mallory President

and CEO

Affordable Housing Trust

Ilike to say that I get to wake up every morning and address the hottest topic in town-housing. As President & CEO of the Affordable Housing Trust for Columbus & Franklin (AHT), I spend my days meeting and working with developers, local officials, banks, and community advocates about how we can bring more affordable housing units online in Central Ohio. Although it’s a subject at the forefront of everyone’s mind, affordable housing can be a weighted term that looks and feels different depending upon who you are talking to. But to put it simply, affordable housing at its most basic level means households don’t spend more than 30% of their income on the place they call home. That also means what is affordable for my barista as Starbucks is not the same as what is affordable for me, or for an elementary school teacher, or for a senior citizen.|

In Central Ohio, housing is critical as opportunity and growth are abundant in the region (see Intel as just one example) and will be for the foreseeable future. With that growth comes new jobs and more people, but we are behind on the housing. According to the Building Industry Association of Central Ohio, we should be building nearly 19,000 units annually to keep up with projected growth and demand, but in 2022, just over 12,000 housing permits were obtained. Yes, we are behind, but I’m confident that with collective effort from partners across the region and creative ideas we can solve this problem.

At AHT, our mission is to create and preserve affordable housing by investing in developments throughout Columbus and Franklin County. Since 2001, we’ve partnered with developers to deliver more than 13,000 housing. And we’re continuing to do our part to tackle our housing challenges with programs like the Emerging Developers Accelerator Program and AHT’s Grant Program for Housing Innovation. The Emerging Developers Accelerator Program (EDAP) is AHT’s 6-month training program that supports developers who are women and people of color with comprehensive technical assistance, education, and access to capital to help build and preserve affordable housing. In addition to providing participants with the opportunity to accelerate their businesses and close the racial wealth gap, the program is also helping increase the supply of affordable housing units throughout the Central Ohio community. AHT’s Grant Program for Housing Innovation helps fund home repairs and subsidizes housing-related initiatives for eligible nonprofits. Home repair grants specifically address exterior or interior home repairs to improve health and safety, accessibility, and code violation concerns, while non-production grants help support initiatives for already existing housing.

As our community continues to work towards new and innovative solutions for housing our neighbors, AHT is proud to serve as a partner on these efforts. Every single housing unit matters.

Photo by Ira Graham III

Ira Graham Photography

Elizabeth Martinez CEO

Big Brothers Big Sisters

Elizabeth Martinez sees herself in the youth of Big Brothers Big Sisters. Growing up against a backdrop of poverty and family struggles, she was fortunate to have opportunities and mentors as a young girl that supported her achievements, allowing her to reach her academic potential receiving her B.A. in psychology, Ohio Christian University. Today, Martinez works tirelessly to advocate for mentorship in children’s lives.

“Young people are born with success genes, and adults have the opportunity to be meaningful partners helping them access all of their gifts, foster and nurture them and support them as they tackle life hurdles.” Martinez says.

Martinez joined the agency in 2003 and was elevated to the top post as President and CEO in 2016. Her long tenure at the nonprofit has been “inspired by the power, promise and potential of young people.”

As President & CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Ohio, Martinez believes that showing up for young people when they need a network of support is the deepest expression of humanity. While showing up is the first step, building genuine connections is where BBBS can tap into change and transformation on both sides of the relationship.

For most of us, the experiences and events with evidence of great success can be linked to a positive relationship with a role model, whether it be a mentor, parent, teacher, or coach. Conversely, young people who do not have access to the right relationships are often placed at a disadvantage. That’s why, for young people in particular, strong mentoring relationships are a foundational resource for future success.

The experiences some of our youth face today can be incredibly traumatic. As a result, we must explore holistic approaches that ensure they have the resources needed to achieve their full potential. Being seen, valued, and heard by adults in their ecosystem is central to building the creativity, brilliance, and restorative sense of hope and promise among our youth. That foundation, constructed with enriching experiences, support, and opportunities is central to creating on-ramps for success.

Big Brothers Big Sisters serves area youth through leadership development and its core one-to-one mentoring program, bringing relational exchanges between youth and adults which helps create new systems, new generative giving cycles, which use the power of relationships to propel everyone toward a more equitable future.

Martinez speaks often about youth participation as an essential factor in the creation of a resilient community. Sharing that youth are often the most directly affected by their challenges which make them uniquely equipped to take action and drive change. She believes that Columbus will continue to flourish with the help of thriving ecosystems of interconnected, supportive organizations, businesses, nonprofits and government agencies.

Identifying the myriad ways, we can connect with and support each other to help build a strong, vibrant Columbus that serves the needs of every individual and family in our region.

Photo by Ira Graham III

Ira Graham Photography

Sheri Neal Accountant

Defense Finance Accounting Service (DFAS) Board Chair, Maroon Arts Group

Hailing from the Morgan Park neighborhood in Baltimore, MD, it was there that Neale came in close contact with infusions of art through music, religion and culture. Neale, an accountant at Defense Finance Accounting Service (DFAS) by day, serves as the Board Chair of Maroon Arts Group in Bronzeville on Columbus’ Near East Side, where she is also a resident. It’s a position she sees as the perfect bridge - paying homage to the legacy of her mother’s roots, her father’s support and the culture that raised her.

Neale’s mother is a Peabody-trained pianist. She served as the Minister of Music for their local church - a Catholic congregation - where she was charged with introducing gospel music to the body of worshippers. In addition, her mother directed various community choirs. Add this intimate exposure to the influence of Morgan State University, the historically Black college and university (HBCU) for which her neighborhood was named and an influx of theater, athletics and live music that surrounded her. Neale had art and faith as guides, cradled in Black culture and stories.

“Art…has always been a way for me to emote - to express,” she said. “I don’t know my life without it.”

And so it was an artistic expression she looked to for comfort and to make sense of the world in 2015. Neale and friends were collectively grieving the widely publicized deaths of Eric Garner, Sandra Bland, and countless others. She was reminded of a former classmate who wrote and directed a stage play that deeply resonated with her years before. Neale and friends galvanized to bring the production to Columbus. After multiple arts organizations declined their support, she wasn’t deterred. The production lived on to have a successful weekend run. The community demanded more from the collective. And Maroon Arts Group was born.

The first few years of its inception, Maroon Arts Group thrived on donations, hosting open mic nights and other grassroots events that Black artists and community members wanted to see come alive as the rebirth of Bronzeville began to take shape. Their first landmark was solidified with the Movement Pursuing Art, Commerce and Community (MPACC) Box Park, located at 925 Mt. Vernon Avenue. It houses three repurposed shipping containers, for performance space, an art gallery and a soul-vegan pop-up restaurant.

In 2021, Maroon Arts Group further solidified its presence in Bronzeville on behalf of Black culture and Black art. They purchased the historic York Mason Building, which houses the Pythian Theater, just west of the Box Park, designed by Black architect Samuel Plato in 1926. The building houses a legacy of music, culture, arts and education.

Maroon Arts Group, aptly named for enslaved people throughout the African diaspora who fled chattel slavery and formed their own settlements, is building one of its own.

It’s all a continuation of the foundation of her parents. Their roots of tenacity have bloomed boldly through Neale’s leadership - where Black culture is pushed, celebrated and seen.

Photo by Ira Graham III

Ira Graham Photography

Camille Seals

Head of School

Columbus School for Girls

From the time she entered Hathaway Brown School as a preschooler to when she concluded her undergraduate career at Spelman College, perhaps the most lasting lesson Seals learned was to carry herself with confidence. That quality has served her well as a leader—first as Director of Multicultural Affairs at her alma mater, then later as Assistant Head of School at The Agnes Irwin School and now as Head of School at Columbus School for Girls.

“Attending a girls’ school gives you this sense of courage and confidence to occupy a space and hold your head high even when you’re the single voice representing your gender, your race, or your culture,” Seals said.

Seals’ experience is just one example of just how integral learning in a space uniquely designed for girls can be for women. A study by Dr. Linda J. Sax published by the Sudikoff Family Institute for Education & New Media and the UCLA Graduate School of Education & Information Studies found that the majority of girls’ school graduates report higher self-confidence than their co-educated peers. The atmosphere is one that gives girls and young women a sense of agency and efficacy that they carry with them to affect change in their communities and careers.

For Seals, attending a girls’ school helped her learn how to not only value her own worth, but the worth of her fellow students. Fostering this appreciation would have been much more difficult in coeducational spaces in which girls are often pitted against each other.

“I want to be in girls’ schools to raise up girls and young women who will also cheer for other women,” Seals said.

Since joining Columbus School for Girls as Head of School this past fall, Seals has spearheaded new initiatives that continue the legacy of academic excellence for which the nearly 125-year-old school is known. One recent example is The Institute for Innovation & Leadership, a new program designed to provide experiential learning opportunities to augment core curricula. Consisting of six unique Centers, the Institute focuses on the areas of math, art, science, global studies, leadership, and equity and belonging.

In addition to prioritizing development of the Institute, Seals is also working alongside faculty and staff to continue CSG’s strong college preparatory initiatives. The work begins in earnest in the ninth grade, with curricula designed to thoughtfully and in developmentally appropriate ways help students bridge the gap between high school and college.

By the time students are ready to graduate, they are equipped with not only critical thinking skills, but also the social-emotional intelligence that is a result of spending their formative years in a community intentionally designed to meet the needs of girls and young women. And like Seals, CSG graduates gain the confidence that comes from finding their voice.

“Our students learn every day that being a girl is a position of honor.” Seals said. “Once they know their power, there is no limit to what they can do.”

Class of 2023

DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION EXECUTIVES

Robbie Banks

Program Director, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

The Columbus Partnership

Robbie Banks is the program director of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) at the Columbus Partnership. Her role is focused on the development and execution of strategic programming and projects that impact the Columbus Partnership’s ability to advance the vision for Columbus to become the most prosperous region in the U.S. As manager of the planning and advancement specific to DEI-focused workstreams, Robbie establishes and maintains relationships with DEI practitioners, C-suite and senior leaders to develop, align and execute the Region’s equity and inclusion strategy.

She also co-chairs the staff DEI Committee, created in 2020 by members of the Columbus Partnership, One Columbus and Smart Columbus teams. Although it is every team member’s responsibility to prioritize DEI in their work and relationships, the committee is focused specifically on advancing internal changes to make the enterprise more diverse, equitable and inclusive. Through internal discussions and evaluations, the committee identifies and advances recommendations across the organization’s purchasing, hiring and inclusive practices, and learning opportunities.

To help build community within the organization and empower

leaders in every seat, Robbie serves as the lead and host for staff retreats. She also manages leadership development partnerships, including the Young Americans Leadership Program at Harvard Business School, Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO) Columbus Chapter and Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) Columbus Chapter.

Previously, Robbie served as the program director and interim executive director at Leadership Columbus where she managed and directed programs that embrace a 21st century vision for community leadership development while embedding opportunities for participants to develop their leadership skills.

As director of visitor experience for Experience Columbus, she launched and led the Experience Dedicated® Destination program, which worked across hospitality industry sectors to enhance the city’s visitor experience. Robbie also was responsible for the Greater Columbus Tourism Ambassador Program, part of a national certification program for front-line workers and volunteers. She led efforts directed at young professionals to attract and retain talent at the Columbus Chamber of Commerce where she served as a point person for community

issues related to young professionals. Robbie also worked for the City of Columbus as an executive assistant to the director of technology and assistant to the Office of Mayor Michael B. Coleman.

A Columbus native, Robbie holds a B.S. in marketing and a M.S. in marketing and communication from Franklin University. She is a 2007 graduate of Leadership Columbus and serves on the Board of Trustees for I Know I Can.

In her spare time, Robbie enjoys expressing her creativity as a freelance make-up artist.

She also enjoys participating as a Pelotonia rider and volunteering with Meals on Wheels and Promise on Parsons. She resides in Northwest Columbus with her partner Justin and their dogs.

Napoleon Bell II

Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Franklin County Sherriff’s Office

Napoleon is responsible for executing strategies to embed its principles of diversity, equity and inclusion in leadership, recruitment, and office culture.

Napoleon Bell is a leader who has not stayed in his lane. He began his professional career as a Police Officer for the City of Columbus Department of Public Safety. He dedicated over 23 years to the City of Columbus, serving in roles such as Patrol Officer, Community Liaison Officer and Executive Director for the City of Columbus Community Relations Commission. Where he oversaw enforcement of the Columbus Civil Rights Code in housing, employment and public accommodations, The New Americans Initiative, Diversity and Cultural Competency training, Community Police Relations, and community outreach and engagement. He recognized that he couldn’t fulfil his DEI mandate without taking a look and figuring out how real-world events-including civil rights, social justice, income disparity, and biases-impacted the workplace at the Sherriff’s Office as well as in the surrounding community.

“I approach the diversity conversation with the perspective that diversity and inclusion are assets, they’re force multipliers. Inclusion isn’t just about being ethical, fair

or because it’s the law.” He explains:

“I point out that we come from different cultures...But, and this is the key, now we’re all here — at the Sherriff’s office which means we now have a shared purpose, and all those differences… they’re features, not flaws...we’re better because we’re different. We’re stronger because we come from everywhere. And utilizing those differences leads to better outcomes when dealing with our adversaries and difficult problems.”

In 2016 Mr. Bell co-founded “The Heritage Tours”. The bus tours are designed to give riders of all ages an experiential look into history visiting historic civil rights locations and museums throughout North America.

The confluence of Napoleon’s upbringing, professional experiences, and connection to multiple races and ethnicities in the community inspires the work that he does every day. He was raised in a family to believe that to whom much is given, much will be required. With that in mind, Napoleon tries to use his life, insights, and perspectives to bridge different views in ways that help others see the strength and commonality we all share, through embracing diversity

and being more inclusive.

Napoleon attended the Ohio State University and received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications from Capital University. He holds Certifications as Defensive Tactics Instructor, Field Training Officer, Crime Prevention Specialist and Diversity Professional through Diversity First Inc.

Photo by Ira Graham III

Ira Graham Photography

Dr. Sidney Childs

Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer

Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA)

Dr. Sidney Childs is the first Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Officer with the Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA) in its 89 years history. While the role is new, CMHA’s approach to its various initiatives is resident-centered with an equity mindset.

Throughout my professional career, I have been intentional about cultivating a community environment where people feel welcome and strive to create a more just and equitable world. One in which everyone sees themselves as valuable individuals and feels confident and competent in their own identities. And that is why I joined the CMHA family a little over a year and half ago. Being a part of an organization that is making an impact in the community, and to be able to interact and affect the affordable housing industry is something I feel very strongly about. More importantly, CMHA strives to have a strong impact on the residential experience. Work is underway to examine how we might better engage our residents at all levels within our residential communities. This includes a review of existing housing policies and procedures to highlight current strengths and define areas for continued growth. At the end of the day, our goal is to ensure each resident lives in a community where they not only survive but

thrive.

We know there is not enough supply of housing here in Central Ohio. When an individual or family cannot afford their housing, other things begin to suffer. We know that there are over 54,000 families in Franklin County paying more than 50% of their income towards rent. While some families may choose to leave central Ohio, we know many are staying and choosing to live in a situation that is not affordable or maybe even unsafe.

As a result, CMHA continues to increase affordable housing within the community. Through our strong community partnerships, we are excited with the strategic direction we are headed to meet this critical need facing Central Ohio and beyond. One of our organizational goals is to build and/or acquire at least 500 housing units a year for the next five years through multiple business strategies. In doing so we aim to ensure that the resident is central to the overall success of each project.

But this work cannot be done alone. We have a commitment to ensure our community partners who in many cases provide direct services to our residents have organizational values that are aligned with ours.

In this role I can lead and build upon CMHA’s strong history of commitment in promoting a diverse and inclusive residential community that highlights and celebrates the rich cultures of our residents.

We recognize the benefit of DEI as a management tool as well as an operational strategy is to successfully bring together diverse groups of ideas, identities, and information to strengthen the organizational culture while we work together and develop solutions to difficult challenges we face.

Photo by Ira Graham III

Ira Graham Photography

Marchelle E. Moore

Senior Vice President, External Affairs

Chief Diversity Officer, President of the Encova Foundation of Ohio

Marchelle is a multifaceted, C-suite executive with over 20 years of progressive experience in highly regulated industries, including insurance and transportation. As Encova Insurance’s first Chief Diversity Officer, Marchelle leverages her broad leadership and business acumen to lead innovative efforts to make Encova an inclusive and equitable atmosphere for all associates. Marchelle is responsible for leading strategic corporate citizenship initiatives and advancing the organization’s philanthropic efforts across its geographical footprint of 28 states and Washington, D.C. Previously, Marchelle served as Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary for Encova Mutual Insurance Group, consisting of 23 companies. In that role, Marchelle led strategic and tactical legal initiatives, including forming a mutual holding company and affiliating two large and complex organizations with combined assets of $4.5 billion. Marchelle also led regulatory affairs and industry relations.

Prior to joining Encova, Marchelle served as Central Ohio Transit Authority’s (COTA) Vice President of Legal and Government Affairs and General Counsel. She served on the company’s executive leadership team and oversaw all legal matters, including corporate governance, compliance, and

ethics. Marchelle joined COTA as Senior Legal Counsel and was promoted to Interim Vice President of Human Resources and Labor Relations, a role she held for two years. In this role, Marchelle was responsible for overseeing all division goals and objectives, employee relations, three labor contracts, and the implementation of training, education, and employee development programs.

Marchelle currently serves on the Governing Committee of The Columbus Foundation and the Independent Review Panel of JobsOhio. She formerly served as Chair of The Ohio State University Alumni Association Board of Directors, Board Director for CampusParc, and former Co-chair of the City of Columbus Charter Review Commission.

Marchelle has a Juris Doctor from The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law and a bachelor’s degree in English from The Ohio State University. She chose to attend law school because of her lifelong affinity for justice and equality and initially hoped to work as a civil rights attorney. While her legal career took her in a different direction, she hopes her current role will allow her to have the social justice impact she aspired to make as a young lawyer. She notes, “My sincere desire

is to make real and lasting change at Encova and the broader Columbus community – change that lifts all boats.” Marchelle is a member of Women Corporate Directors, is affiliated with numerous professional and industry associations and is a licensed attorney in good standing with the state of Ohio.

Marlon Moore Ph.D.

Chief Executive Officer, Diversity, Inclusion Executive

Marlon Moore Consulting

Diversity, equity, and inclusion consultant Marlon Moore, Ph.D. has aptly summed up his DEI philosophy in the title of his book, “Diversity Starts with You,” a strategy guide published in 2021 to help leaders develop a world-class DEI strategy for their organizations. The book reflects Dr. Moore’s 25 years of experience as a nationally recognized leader in DEI, working with organizations and business professionals across multiple industries to strengthen what is now a top priority as they look to the future.

“After the murder of George Floyd, people and organizations alike were interested in how they could impact societal change,” Dr. Moore says. “This included establishing strategic organizational objectives. I felt that if I couldn’t engage every person or organization, I at least wanted to offer a resource guide on key concepts related to DEI that I believe can make a difference.”

In his book, Dr. Moore also shares some very personal experiences–including his experience being called a racial slur for the first time.

“Not in the deep south, not in 1960, but in the Midwest around 2018. This was an unfortunate reminder that there are still sig-

nificant opportunities to educate people of the impact of bias, stereotypes, and overt racism. To become a more inclusive society and business community, it is important that we all embrace the notion that diversity starts with you.”

The former chief diversity and inclusion officer for a large regional bank, Dr. Moore launched Marlon Moore Consulting during the pandemic. Marlon Moore Consulting provides the format and structure for establishing DEI operating plans including key strategic initiatives and performance indicators based on industry leading best practices and value alignment.

He has supported many Columbus-based organizations in their DEI efforts including Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA), Donatos Pizza, The Crane Group, and Pelotonia and nationally, Project Lead the Way and the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee and member organizations such as USA Weightlifting, USA Climbing, and US Figure Skating. He has also authored articles for Savoy and Kaleidoscope magazines and received recognition from Black Enterprise Magazine, National Diversity Council, Forbes, and Fortune 100 magazine. In addition, he is host of “Moore DEI Discussions,” a podcast series that

features conversations about DEI with C-suite executives.

Dr. Moore says having a diverse workforce starts with representation, which means attracting staff that are representative of various genders and gender identities, sexual orientation, and ethnicity, among other dimensions. To organizations and professionals who want to advance DEI, Dr. Moore further advises, “Be authentic in your engagement, be intentional about your aspirations, fully embrace DEI and always strive to deliver excellent results on your DEI goals. Most importantly, know that together we hold the power of change because diversity starts with you.”

Photo by Ira Graham III

Ira Graham Photography

Jason C. Smith

Executive Director, Advancing Black Pathways JPMorgan Chase

Jason is the Corporate Client Business Relationship Executive for Advancing Black Pathways at JPMorgan Chase, an initiative founded in 2019 to strengthen the economic foundation of Black communities around the world. In this role, he helps the firm address historical barriers to economic growth in Black communities and partners with the firm’s largest corporate clients to achieve their DEI targets by sharing best practices and creating joint initiatives.

He leverages his 20+ years of experience in business relationship management, process improvement and diversity & inclusion to further transform the ways JPMorgan Chase works and collaborates with existing and potential corporate clients. In addition, he’s an active leader of the firm’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion initiatives, and a member of the Ohio-based Black Leadership Forum.

Since joining the firm in September 2017, he has held numerous roles within the organization that include, Site Services Director and Director of Performance Consulting. As a former Executive Sponsor for one of JPMorgan Chase’s many businesses resource groups, BOLD Ohio (Black Organization for Leadership Development), Ja-

son has always been a resourceful business partner and champion for those under-represented.

Prior to joining JPMorgan Chase, Jason held a dual role at Transportation Research Center, Inc. (TRC) as the Director of Projects/Director of Engineering within their Research & Development organization. In addition, he garnered his program management, process improvement and engineering skills through a variety of positions he held at Rolls-Royce Energy Systems Inc. (RRESI) and General Motors Corp. (GM). At RollsRoyce, Jason led numerous global project teams, while working in countless foreign countries such as Nigeria, United Arab Emirates, Kazakhstan and China. While at GM, he was integrally involved in the advancement of Telematics and numerous vehicles launches. In 2004, he earned the GM Chairman’s Honor Award, GM’s highest honor, for his role in the launch of the Chevy Malibu.

Jason is a proud Historically Black College and University (HBCU) alumni and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from Prairie View A&M University and a Master of Science degree in Engineering Management of Technology from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

He is also PMP (Project Management Professional) certified from the Project Management Institute and trained as a Black Belt Lean Six Sigma and certified in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion through Cornell University.

Jason is a Detroit native and currently resides in Westerville, OH with his wife Evelyn and their two teenage daughters. In his spare time, he enjoys grilling, golfing, cycling, swimming, traveling the globe and coaching youth in golf as a volunteer with the PGA Jr. League.

Erik Farley

Chief People, Equity and Inclusion Officer

YMCA of Central Ohio

Erik Farley serves as the Chief People, Equity and Inclusion Officer for the YMCA of Central Ohio. His work includes collaborating with cross-functional teams to transform the YMCA of Central Ohio’s approach to inclusion, equity, diversity, and anti-racism work through systems, structure and processes. Erik oversees the People and Culture Department (formally Human Resources). He is also responsible for cultivating and sustaining strong, mutually beneficial, relationships with Columbus-based groups and organizations.

Prior to working in the nonprofit sector, Erik worked in higher education administration for 17 years

at private liberal arts colleges and medium-sized, comprehensive state universities. He most recently served as Dean of Student Leadership and Community Engagement at Denison University.

Erik currently serves as Vice Chair of The Friends of WOSU Board, an advisory group of Central Ohio citizens. This body has been an important liaison between WOSU Public Media and the community since 1973. He also serves as Vice Chair of the Ohio Attorney General’s Charitable Advisory Council. In this role, Erik advises the attorney general on training needs and model policies for charities. The council also assists the attorney general in identifying

Ralonda Hampton Diversity, Inclusion Engagement Officer Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC)

In this position, Hampton is part of MORPC’s Communications & Engagement team and responsible for the agency’s diversity & inclusion programs and initiatives. Hampton also develops, conducts and reviews MORPC’s outreach strategies to ensure compliance with branding, public involvement and diversity policies.

Ralonda first began her career in public service at The Ohio Treasurer of State. As a Program Manager in the Economic Development Department, Ralonda served on an intimate

team responsible for managing the Treasury’s $800 million portfolio.

Prior to joining MORPC, Hampton served as a Legislative Aide at Columbus City Council. Hampton has more than 17 years of experience in the public and private sectors spanning in human resources, diversity & inclusion, economic development and community engagement.

Ralonda is passionate about her community and grew up in the historical Near East Side. She graduated from Columbus City Schools and holds

emerging issues and trends affecting charities. Erik is also a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Eastern Michigan University, Master of Arts (Educational Leadership), Ypsilanti, MI, 2006 Denison University, Bachelor of Arts (History), Granville, OH, 2003

a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, from Kentucky State University. She resides in Columbus with her husband Kenny and two children, Kennedy and KJ.

Kourtni M. Hatton

Chief Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer & Vice President, Culture & Community Engagement United Way of Central Ohio

Kourtni Hatton joined United Way of Central Ohio in 2015. With a background in HR, she is a champion for workplace equity who leverages relationships to bridge gaps between employers and their staff to drive organizational results. In 2022 Kourtni was promoted to Chief Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer/VP of Community Engagement at United Way. In this role, she is responsible for amplifying DEI initiatives and workplace culture efforts. Leading the effort to increase nonprofit board diversity in central Ohio, Kourtni directs funded partner board diversity strategies and oversees the Project Diversity Pride Leadership board develop-

ment program. She also leads the effort for community engagement focused on an increased commitment to strengthening relationships with community partners, centering those led by and/or primarily serving people of color and diverse populations.

Kourtni has accomplished a great deal during her tenure at United Way, including creating and implementing a plan to improve the culture that successfully permeates throughout the organization. Tenets of the plan incorporate a commitment to equity, access and continuous improvement.

In the community, Kourtni has been a mentor for youth and HR profession-

Rachel Muredzwa

Director of Equity and Inclusion, College of Nursing, Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

The Ohio State University

Rachel Muredzwa is a strategic leader and experienced project manager with over 23 years of progressive experience in education across the lifespan, having worked with populations from kindergarten to PhD settings. Her professional background includes 13 years of service in higher education administration, where she has held critical roles at DePaul University, the University of Chicago, and The Ohio State University.

Muredzwa’s leadership experience spans across multiple areas, including Director Level leadership in student recruitment and retention, diversity, equity, and inclusion programming,

and support service design. Currently, she serves as the leader of operations and programming at The Ohio State University’s College of Nursing, where she is dedicated to diversifying the nursing workforce, providing culturally competent skills training to nursing students and contributing to holistic admissions processes. Her leadership practice is characterized by a commitment to using culturally competent engagement to address diversities of race, ethnicity, language, immigrant status, mental and physical ability, religion, economic background, sexual orientation, gender identity and social capital.

als. She is also a board member for Central Ohio Diversity Consortium, Equity Now Coalition, The Eldon & Elsie Ward YMCA and the African American Leadership Academy. She also serves on the Talent Advisory Council and the Culture Transformation Taskforce for United Way Worldwide. In 2022, Kourtni was recognized as a Columbus Business First 40 Under 40 honoree and a Columbus Urban League HerStory Mover and Shaker.

Muredzwa is a native of Ohio and was raised in Harare Zimbabwe. She holds a master’s degree in Social Work Administration from The Ohio State University’s College of Social Work. She is a member of the Columbus Advisory Board with the Ohio Diversity Council. She is also a certified hatha flow yoga instructor and urban farmer, reflecting her passion for holistic well-being.

Dr. Beverly Stallings-Johnson

Vice President, Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer

The Wendy’s Company

Beverly has served as Wendy’s Vice President, Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer since March 2021, leading efforts to create an inclusive culture for the Company’s employees, franchisees, and suppliers. She is a transformational leader who understands how a diverse and inclusive culture can positively impact business results. Dr. Stallings-Johnson is also a passionate advocate for ensuring that people can feel comfortable

bringing their authentic selves to work. She previously led the City of Columbus’ Office of Diversity and Inclusion, where she helped to advance an equity agenda to impact disparities across the city’s nearly 1 million residents. She also held numerous roles of increasing responsibility at Xerox during her more than 25 years with the company, culminating in her role as Global Equal Employment Officer and Senior Executive, Diversity Inclusion and

Sherrice Sledge-Thomas

Vice President, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion Columbus Chamber of

Commerce

As the Vice President of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Access (DEIA) at the Columbus Chamber of Commerce, Sherrice Sledge-Thomas activates systemic change strategies for equity and inclusion in the business community.

Before joining the Chamber, Sherrice served as the Director of Change Management at NiSource, one of the largest fully regulated utility companies in the United States. Sherrice spent 19 years at Nationwide, a Fortune 100 com-

pany, holding leadership roles in Organization Effectiveness, Talent Management, and Leadership Development.

She serves as President of the Central Ohio Diversity Consortium, Secretary of the Community Shelter Board’s Board of Trustees, a Dress for Success Program Committee member, and the NAACP Housing Committee Secretary.

Sherrice holds a Master of Business Administration with a focus in Organizational Leadership

Equity. Dr. Stallings-Johnson holds a PhD in Management and Organizational Effectiveness, a master’s in management, and a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing and Communications. She is a member of the Ohio Diversity Council.

and Management from Franklin University and a Bachelor of Arts degree with a focus in Women’s Studies from The Ohio State University. She cooks with her family and practices yoga in her free time.

Don’t Give Hate Any Oxygen

By Todd Corley

For the record, being woke is not a pejorative term. The SVB bank debacle did not happen because “diversity demands” distracted management from fiscal oversight. ESG (environmental, social and governance) is not a way to push a “political” agenda, rather it’s a way to create accountability for environmental and social stewardship. Ignoring divisive language in local politics can be detrimental and have consequences when it finds its way into statewide legislation: Florida, Florida, Florida! I could go on, but hopefully these statements speak for themselves. The work of creating an inclusive and belonging environment has become more weaponized today, than the decade(s) prior.

Today’s DEI professional must be equipped with more than a passion to do the work or a certificate that says you “passed”, because waning organizational commitment (post-Mr. Floyds murder) and culture wars, often inspired by naysayers and fueled by disinformation will interfere with the goal of creating meaningful change that stands the test of time. Effective DEI leaders must be able to draw upon lived experience, have intense familiarity with leading change management initiatives in highly matrixed organizations, while possessing business acumen and the ability to influence organizational and personal behavior. Successful DEI practitioners must be able to recognize where the work is headed and what DEI needs to be adjacent to for it to get the oxygen necessary to be relevant and strategic.

Present day and for the foreseeable future, this means that if you are in

this role, then you are able to weave DEI principles into your organization’s environmental footprint; philanthropic or charitable giving strategy; investment portfolio; or community outreach efforts. Irrespective of the industry, DEI leaders must be nimble, sophisticated negotiators and have a keen sense of smell, sniffing out nefarious intent. For example, innocuous words like, “family values” uttered during a school board meeting may be code for banning books that tell the history of marginalized groups or curtail the rights of employees and their family members, who self-identify as LGBTQIA+. This work is not for the inpatient, you can’t take it personally, but you do have to personalize it and be in it 24/7/365. It may not be an event in the Olympics, but it is indeed a contact sport – with “winners” and “losers”. The margin for error is thin. Losing (like elections) does have consequences.

Here are a few ideas to lift-up, if you choose this line of work or simply take on a supporting role (e.g., community volunteer, board member, sponsor of an employee resource group):

• Mitigate and/or eliminate opportunities for daily bias, exclusion, discrimination, harassment, and disenfranchisement

• Engage in brand activism, providing consistent vocal and participatory support for and stances on social justice issues related and unrelated to standard business

• Recognize, acknowledge, and

respect the capital and collective purchasing power diverse customer bases possess

• Strengthen policies, procedures, and practices to mitigate and/or eliminate discrimination and harassment, while introducing an accountability framework for leaders

• Prioritize social impact and community engagement throughout all organizational touchpoints

Todd Corley is Senior Vice President for Inclusion, Sustainability and Community at Carhartt. He leads the brand’s purpose-driven workstreams across the globe, with direct responsibility for diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) strategies, sustainability initiatives, community partnerships and corporate giving.

His first self-published book, Fitch Path, was the inspiration for the Netflix documentary, White Hot: The Rise and Fall of Abercrombie & Fitch, which debuted at #1.