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PUBLISHER & CEO: Hiram E. Jackson
GENERAL MANAGER: Michelle Lynn Washington
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER: Dr. Carter D. Womack
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT: Ernie Sullivan
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER: Rhonda Caldwell
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS: Trudie Lippert Cloyd
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS: Juan Sifuentes, Richard Pouncy
WRITERS: Brittney Bogues, Rhonda Crowder, Mary C. Curtis, Kevin Heard, Donald James, Loán Lake
GAME CHANGER & LIVING LEGENDS PHOTOGRAPHER: Paul Williams III ON THE COVER: Mayor Vi Lyles | 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient
COVER PHOTO: Donald Wilson
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WHO’S WHO IN BLACK recognizes individuals who have excelled in their professions or contributed significantly to their communities. This publication highlights those whose accomplishments have enhanced the quality of life citywide or locally.
A thorough effort was made to include individuals with notable positions or achievements. Lists from various sources were consulted to ensure comprehensive inclusion. However, due to the mobility of society and the constraints of time and space, some deserving individuals might have been missed, for which we apologize. Omissions are due to these limitations, not a lack of intention.
Invitations to participate were extended by the publisher, requesting personal and professional data from selected individuals. Only freely submitted information was included. Editors strived for accuracy but cannot guarantee it.
There was no charge for inclusion, and it was not guaranteed. An annual update is planned. Feedback and concerns are welcome and should be directed to the publisher.
Presenting Sponsor
Platinum Plus Sponsor
Platinum Sponsor
Charlotte Area Fund
Ernst & Young
Fifth Third Bank
Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts & Culture
Silver Sponsors
Advertisers
Influencer Business Academy
The Main Event
RadioOne
Self-Help Credit Union
Southern Lion
Kodwo
Ghartey-Tagoe
EVP, Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary
Congratulations to Kodwo Ghartey-Tagoe for your leadership recognition by Who’s Who in Black Charlotte.
You play a vital role in delivering one of the nation’s largest clean energy transitions while strengthening and supporting an empowered diverse workforce and inclusive workplace. Thank you for leading with such conviction, authenticity and integrity.
“This compendium not only celebrates the remarkable individuals who have shaped this vibrant community, but also shines a spotlight on the milestones and achievements that define Charlotte.”
Dear Readers,
It is with immense pride and excitement that I present to you the latest edition of Who’s Who in Black Charlotte. This compendium not only celebrates the remarkable individuals who have shaped this vibrant community, but also shines a spotlight on the milestones and achievements that define Charlotte.
This year’s publication is particularly special as we honor the indomitable Mayor Vi Lyles with our Lifetime Achievement Award. Mayor Lyles has been a beacon of leadership and inspiration for Charlotte, guiding the city through transformative growth while championing equity, inclusivity, and progress. Her dedication and vision have indelibly impacted this community, and it is a privilege to recognize her contributions.
We are also thrilled to feature a powerful foreword by Raichelle ‘Rai’ Glover, a distinguished figure whose influence extends far beyond our city. Rai’s expertise and eloquence bring a profound perspective to this edition. Her insightful reflections on the evolving landscape of Charlotte provide readers with a deeper understanding of the city’s growth and the influential figures highlighted within these pages.
A heartfelt thank you goes to Anthony Trotman for his compelling introduction. Anthony’s deep understanding and appreciation of Charlotte’s dynamic landscape provide a perfect prelude to the stories and profiles within these pages. His contribution adds depth and perspective, setting the stage for a meaningful exploration of our collective impact.
In this edition, we are proud to feature an insightful feature on John C. Smith University’s Financial Literacy program for students. As we navigate the complexities of our economic landscape, understanding financial literacy is crucial for empowerment and growth.
John C. Smith University’s commitment to this vital subject highlights their dedication to equipping our community with the tools necessary for financial success.
Additionally, we delve into a captivating feature story focusing on Charlotte’s art and culture. Our city is a canvas of creativity, and this story brings to light the artists and cultural initiatives that enrich our lives and define our community. From visual arts to performing arts, Charlotte’s cultural vibrancy is a testament to the talent and passion that thrive within our city.
Thank you for joining us in celebrating the extraordinary individuals and stories that make Charlotte a remarkable place to live and grow. As always, it is an honor to share these narratives with you, and I hope you find inspiration in the pages ahead.
HIRAM E. JACKSON PUBLISHER & CEO OF REAL TIMES MEDIA
“Each person featured in this edition is truly a leader in their home, organization, and the community at large.”
Greetings:
Thank you for your support as we celebrate the historic 9th Edition of documenting, recognizing and celebrating Black Excellence in the great city of Charlotte, North Carolina. This edition is also a continuation of great stories about men and women who came before us, worked hard, and made sacrifices so we would be able to pass on greater opportunities for success to the next generation.
These men and women who are included in our feature sections have changed the game and made a difference in the lives of so many in our communities and other parts of the world. Each person featured in this edition is truly a leader in their home, organization, and the community at large.
As we focus on connecting our younger people to our seasoned leaders, we want you to join us in supporting our 1000 Books for 1000 Kids Campaign. We want you and your organization to donate at least one book to a girl or boy, young woman, or young man. We want our youth to discover inspiring individuals in Queen City, who reflect their own backgrounds and demonstrate the potential for what they can achieve. They can also be the role model for the ones who will follow in their footsteps. I call this “GENERATIONAL LEADERSHIP.”
GENERATIONAL LEADERSHIP must turn into GENERATIONAL WEALTH for our communities.
Thanks to our sponsors and advertisers for their ongoing support and faith in the team at Who’s Who In Black. We truly value you for your commitment to diversity, inclusion, and the betterment for all citizens in these communities featured in this edition. I also thank all of you who are featured, those who attend the unveiling event and those who purchase the 9th edition of Who’s Who In Black Charlotte.
I want to encourage you, if you are not registered to VOTE please get registered and get others to register also. Once you are registered and you have encouraged others the next step is to VOTE always in EACH ELECTION – do not miss an ELECTION and take a young person or persons with you when you vote. I am asking you to be that ROLE MODEL. So, we will have developed GENERATIONAL VOTERS!!
Continued blessings to you, as you continue to be blessings to others.
Always be Engaged!
DR. CARTER D. WOMACK CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
“Together, we are building a legacy of excellence and fostering the leaders of tomorrow.”
Welcome to the 9th edition of Who’s Who In Black Charlotte, a publication where we proudly celebrate the theme of Cultural Renaissance. This year, as we continue to highlight the rich achievements of our African American community, we are especially honored to present the Lifetime Achievement Award to Mayor Vi Lyles. Her leadership, vision, and dedication to the people of Charlotte reflect the essence of our city’s growth and transformation. Mayor Lyles has been a steadfast advocate for inclusive progress, and her contributions continue to inspire the next generation of leaders.
From Living Legends to Emerging Leaders, those embracing inclusive progress are shaping the narrative of Charlotte’s Cultural Renaissance, showcasing the vibrant growth and ingenuity within the African American community. We are witnessing a powerful resurgence of innovation, leadership, and creativity across all sectors—arts, business, education, and more. This edition celebrates individuals who are not only excelling in their fields but are also paving the way for others to thrive, ensuring our community’s continued evolution and success
We are also deeply committed to reaching and inspiring young people, particularly through the idea that “kids can’t be what they can’t see.” This publication serves as a beacon of possibility for students, showing them real-life examples of African American leaders who are making an impact in their community. By connecting with these stories of perseverance and achievement, students can envision new possibilities for their own futures, whether in business, politics, the arts, or community service.
Thank you for joining us in celebrating the brilliance, resilience, and creativity that continue to shape the fabric of Charlotte. Together, we are building a legacy of excellence and fostering the leaders of tomorrow.
WHO’S WHO IN CHARLOTTE ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER
Hi, Charlotte.
Hi, Charlotte.
We’re Huntington.
We’re Huntington.
Hi, Charlotte.
We’re Huntington.
158 YEARS IN BANKING.
158 YEARS IN BANKING.
158 YEARS IN BANKING.
Huntington Bank’s commitment beyond capital has powered growth since 1866.
Huntington Bank’s commitment beyond capital has powered growth since 1866.
Commitment to personal service and client care has helped us grow from a small family enterprise to one of the 25 largest banks in the U.S.
Huntington Bank’s commitment beyond capital has powered growth since 1866.
Commitment to personal service and client care has helped us grow from a small family enterprise to one of the 25 largest banks in the U.S.
We get to know you, your business, and your goals. We work alongside you providing guidance and innovative insights along the way. It’s that kind of partnership that really drives results.
Commitment to personal service and client care has helped us grow from a small family enterprise to one of the 25 largest banks in the U.S.
We get to know you, your business, and your goals. We work alongside you providing guidance and innovative insights along the way. It’s that kind of partnership that really drives results.
Connect with us today.
Rai Glover
Connect with us today.
Rai Glover
Rai.Glover@huntington.com NEW TO THE
We get to know you, your business, and your goals. We work alongside you providing guidance and innovative insights along the way. It’s that kind of partnership that really drives results.
Market President, Greater/Metro Charlotte
Market President, Greater/Metro Charlotte
Rai.Glover@huntington.com
Connect with us today.
Rai Glover
Market President, Greater/Metro Charlotte
Rai.Glover@huntington.com NEW TO THE CAROLINAS.
FOREWORD WRITTEN BY
RAICHELLE ‘RAI’ GLOVER REGIONAL PRESIDENT, HUNTINGTON NATIONAL BANK
Charlotte has been my home for many years, the place that helped shape me and where I witnessed the power of resilience firsthand. Through my trials in life, I learned that “living” is more than our jobs or successes; it’s also about our community, family, and how we connect with and serve others.
I am delighted to write the foreword for Who’s Who In Black Charlotte, an anthology of the impact of Black Excellence and talent that continually weave together the fabric of our city. This fabric is part of the collective journey woven by many trailblazers before us and will continue to be nurtured by the future of Black Charlotte. Through this resilience, sacrifice, and unwavering pursuit of service, the “Best of the Best” continues to make a meaningful impact on our ever-growing community.
My career is just one part of my journey. My life is deeply rooted in my faith and relentless drive to uplift others. I believe our jobs and success only matter if we serve others, because true success means lifting those around us. This is one of the reasons I joined The Huntington National Bank – a bank that has been committed to others since 1866. While we are expanding across the Carolinas and establishing ourselves in Charlotte, we’re here to live out our mission to make people’s lives better, help businesses thrive and strengthen the communities we serve.
As we honor success, I challenge us all to consider: How are we lifting others as we rise? How do we continue to set positive examples, inspiring others to follow suit for the future “Best of the Best?”
Leadership is not merely about power or status, but about inspiring change, uplifting others, and forging new pathways amidst adversity. The “Best of the Best” continues to bring knowledge and skills that challenge the status quo and drive us toward a better future. Their servant leadership catalyzes change within and outside Charlotte, pushing our city to greater heights.
As a child, my mother, “Dear,” instilled in me and my siblings that “it is nice to be important, BUT more important to be nice!” Throughout my career, I have lived by this truism and seen firsthand the importance of kindness in setting positive examples and contributing to productive atmospheres of goodwill. As we delve into “Who’s Who in Black Charlotte,” we honor and celebrate those whose positive forces in Charlotte inspire future -“firsts”- in Black Excellence.
I’ll leave you with this truism: “You’ll never see a U-Haul following a hearse.” Life is more than our jobs, material possessions, or successes—it’s about thinking big and making a positive impact in your/our community. Who we are isn’t defined by what we do, but by how we use what we have to uplift others and better this world.
November 1, 2024
Dear Friends,
As the Congresswoman for North Carolina’s 12th District, it is my distinct honor to extend warm greetings and heartfelt congratulations to everyone gathered for the 9th edition of Who’s Who in Black Charlotte and its Black Excellence Celebration.
This publication has long served as a beacon of inspiration, proudly celebrating the achievements, culture, and impact of Black individuals across our community and beyond. It provides a vital platform that not only acknowledges the accomplishments of our people but also creates a space for us to connect, build, and empower one another.
Tonight, we are especially proud to honor Mayor Vi Lyles, a trailblazer and visionary leader, with a Lifetime Achievement Award. Mayor Lyles’ tireless commitment to Charlotte and her dedication to the betterment of our community serve as a shining example of the spirit of excellence that this celebration embodies. Her leadership has left an indelible mark on our city, paving the way for future generations to continue the work of progress.
The mission of Who’s Who in Black resonates deeply with the values that I hold dear acknowledging the sacrifices of those who came before us, celebrating our current achievements, and laying a foundation for our descendants. As we gather to reflect on our accomplishments, let us remember the words of Proverbs 27:17, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” This verse reminds us that our strength lies in our unity and our commitment to lift one another higher.
May this event inspire continued excellence, collaboration, and a future bright with promise for all. Thank you for your unwavering dedication to elevating Black voices and advancing the cause of our community. I look forward to witnessing the incredible impact that will continue to emerge from this remarkable gathering of leaders, thinkers, and visionaries.
Sincerely,
Alma S. Adams Ph.D. (NC12) Member of Congress
INTRODUCTION WRITTEN BY
ANTHONY TROTMAN
DEPUTY COUNTY MANAGER, MECKLENBERG COUNTY
It is an honor to introduce the 2024 edition of Who’s Who In Black Charlotte. This publication is a powerful tool that connects influential leaders across various sectors of our community. Together, we can continue building a more just and equitable city.
As Deputy County Manager for Mecklenburg County, I oversee Public Health and Social Services, managing a $400 million budget and leading 3,000 employees who serve our 1.1 million residents. Our work spans the full spectrum of life, from prenatal care to support for seniors.
Under the Board of County Commissioners and County Manager Dena Diorio’s leadership, racial equity is a core focus in all we do. Our goal is to address and eliminate the root causes of racial disparities to ensure everyone in our community has an equal chance to thrive.
Mecklenburg County has invested in numerous programs aimed at serving historically underserved populations. We’ve expanded healthcare access for the uninsured, launched Meck Pre-K to ensure equitable education, and created workforce development programs for residents to earn a livable wage. Our Office of Business Diversity and Inclusion provides grants for minority and women-owned businesses, while our Office of Equity and Inclusion supports re-entry programs for the formerly incarcerated and youth transitioning out of foster care.
Through our Community Service Grant process, we also partner with local organizations to meet critical needs. This year, we invested nearly $2 million with 16 organizations to extend services to those who need them most.
I am proud of the innovative ways our County is making a difference. It’s crucial that we foster opportunities for young people to engage in civic leadership, preparing the next generation to carry this work forward. I encourage public high-school students to participate in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Youth Council, which advises our local government and school superintendent.
Our efforts in government rely heavily on the support of our nonprofit, philanthropic, business, and corporate partners. Together, across public and private sectors, we can drive the social change needed to achieve an equitable society. Congratulations to all the individuals recognized in this edition. May our contributions as Black leaders in Charlotte continue to inspire and uplift our community.
November 1, 2024
Dear Esteemed Members of the Charlotte Community :
I am honored to extend my warmest greetings to readers of the 9th Edition of Who's Who in Black Charlotte as we celebrate the extraordinary achievements of our city's African American leaders and professionals. This historic publication serves as more than just a recognition of achievement. It is a vital resource guide for our citizens and visitors alike, showcasing the depth of talent and leadership within Charlotte's African American community. Moreover, it pro vides essential positive role models for our youth, inspiring the next generation of leaders.
As we celebrate this 9th edition, let us reflect on the progress we have made and the work that lies ahead. The stories and accomplishments featured in Who's Who in Black Charlotte remind us of the power of perseverance, innovation and community spirit.
It is with great pride and admiration that I congratulate our distinguished Mayor, Vi Lyles, on being named the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award. This recognition is a testament to her unwavering dedication to public service and her transformative leadership of our great city.
To all those featured in this year's edition, I extend my heartfelt congratulations. Your contributions continue to shape the vibrant tapestry of our city, making Charlotte a beacon of progress and inclusivity.
May this publication continue to inspire, educate and connect our community for years to come.
Sincerely,
Danté Anderson
Mayor Pro Tem, District 1 City of Charlotte
Dear Friends,
It is with immense pride and gratitude that I welcome you to the 9th edition of “Who’s Who in Black Charlotte,” a publication that stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Black Excellence in our great city. This year’s theme, Celebrating Black Excellence, is a reflection of the remarkable contributions and achievements of the Black community in Charlotte, from trailblazers in business and education to visionaries in art, culture, and civic engagement.
At the Carolinas-Virginia Minority Supplier Development Council (CVMSDC), we are deeply committed to empowering and uplifting minority- owned businesses by creating pathways to success and fostering growth through strategic partnerships. In our work, we see daily examples of innovation, leadership, and perseverance from the ethnic minority business community qualities that embody excellence in every sense of the word. We serve as an economic growth engine for our members; from start-up businesses to billion-dollar enterprises.
Who’s Who in Black Charlotte not only highlights the stories of individuals who have shaped our city’s progress, but it also serves as a beacon of inspiration for future generations. It is important that we continue to honor those who are paving the way for others, and this publication allows us to celebrate their dedication, resilience, and impact.
On behalf of the entire CVMSDC network, I want to congratulate the honorees and thank each of them for their unwavering commitment to excellence. Without question, your success and stories inspire us all, and we are honored to celebrate you today and always.
Together, let us continue to uplift, support, and invest in Black Excellence. The future is bright, and with our continued partnership, the possibilities are endless.
With deepest appreciation,
Dominique Simpson Milton
President, Carolinas-Virginia Minority Supplier Development Council (CVMSDC)
Greetings, Who’s Who In Black Charlotte,
It is my distinct honor to extend warm greetings as we celebrate the 9th Edition of Who’s Who In Black Charlotte This publication continues to shine a light on the remarkable achievements of African Americans in our community, and this year’s edition is especially significant as we honor Mayor Vi Lyles with the Lifetime Achievement Award.
Under Mayor Lyles' leadership, Charlotte has made tremendous strides in key areas like affordable housing, equity, and economic development. One of her most notable accomplishments is the $250 million Racial Equity Initiative, which has helped bridge historic gaps in opportunity, foster economic inclusion, and transform Charlotte's most underserved communities. Additionally, through her bold initiatives, Charlotte rose from 50th to 38th in the nation for upward mobility—an achievement that highlights the progress being made, particularly for Black families who are advancing toward true equity at an inspiring pace.
These stories of progress must be shared, and it is crucial that history reflects the impact of Black leaders like Mayor Lyles. Her vision has laid the foundation for future growth, ensuring that doors will continue to open for generations of leaders to come. I am committed to making sure her legacy, and the legacies of all Black leaders in our community, are remembered and celebrated for years to come.
Congratulations to all featured in this year’s edition. Let us continue to learn from those who paved the way, listen to those who are in need, and lead on the foundations of legends
Thank you, Mayor Vi Lyles, for exemplifying what it truly means to be a Who’s Who In Black Charlotte.
Best Regards, Mr. Cathay Dawkins Chairman | CEO, Charlotte Mecklenburg Black Chamber of Commerce
Mayor - City of Charlotte
Alexander Lyles 2024 Who’s Who In Black Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient
For more than a decade, Vi Alexander Lyles has served in elected office for the City of Charlotte. She was first elected in 2013 as an at-large member of the Charlotte City Council, serving for two terms, and was chosen by her peers as mayor pro tem in her second term on the council. Today, she is in her fourth term as mayor of the Queen City, having been elected in 2017 as the first African American woman elected to the seat.
Her role as a public servant, however, began in the late 1970s when she moved to Charlotte from Columbia, South Carolina, to work for the city as a budget analyst. During her tenure, she achieved the roles of budget director and assistant city manager, a position she held from 1996 to 2004. This line of work is more of a calling for Lyles, who grew up in a community where service was the norm. “Public service wasn’t a career path. I grew up in a very large, extended family of about fifty people and was raised in a neighborhood with people who were public servants in another way – like teachers, lawyers, ministers, doctors, and barber shop owners,” Lyles said. “We always talked about faith and how to serve others. That was one of the things that drove me to what I did professionally. “I think we all knew that there was going to be an opportunity for us to be young Black people who would be able to do and make change possible for all of us.”
“
I hope that the next person who sits in this mayor’s seat will see what a gift it is to be able to make change possible.”
That instinct set her internal compass and directed her path to city hall. Lyles relocated to Charlotte to work in the budget office when Charlotte’s first African American mayor, Harvey B. Gantt was serving on the city council, and was inspired by his ability to make others feel seen and heard. “I’ve always known him, and he’s always been someone I respected and acknowledged, someone who was successful. While he was an architect, he was always focused and conscious of how he spoke to people,” Lyles said. “He had a lot of patience, and he listened. This made many decisions easier for everyone and I always admired him for that.”
Although times have changed and leadership looks different today, Mayor Lyles leads from a position of ‘what would be best for everyone?’ She noted the importance of acknowledging the errors of the past and being intentional about rectifying the damage caused. Lyles vividly recalled opening of I-77 and houses being moved from the McCrory Heights neighborhood to other communities. “There were people who lost their homes, and found themselves living in different places. If we can see and document the disparities that occurred, then we need to create opportunity where we once created disparity,” she said.
“I feel like we are beginning to repair some of those harms. Today, when I look at Beatties Ford Road and I think about a coffee shop and a tea bar, and I look at the houses that are going up over there, and the banks that are opening up, and West Charlotte High School being rebuilt,
Mayor Lyles with Vice President Kamala Harris
we are headed in the right direction,” Lyles said.
“We have a lot of work to do and we’re not getting it all perfectly done, but I am committed to this, and I hope that the next person who sits in this mayor’s seat will see what a gift it is to be able to make change possible.”
With so much revitalization taking shape, and her focus on accomplishing the current goals she has set for her term, it can be challenging for Mayor Lyles to see herself in another capacity five or ten years from now. “I’m not even sure I can tell you what I’ll be having for
supper tonight, but I would like to be able to at some point, to look around and see something that was significant in my life,” she said.
Whatever it is would involve her being of service to others and fulfilling her life’s purpose. “You can do anything and find service, and there are so many places to say there’s a need, let’s fulfill it. If I were in a position where I could create good, I’d be happy doing it – anywhere. I think that Charlotte is a place of opportunity, and I hope in five years to be here serving the community in some respect,” she said.
I think we all knew that there was going to be an opportunity for us to be young Black people who would be able to do and make change possible for all of us.”
Mayor Lyles with President Joe Biden
Suffice it to say that Mayor Vi Lyles has seen Charlotte mature into a bustling city that is fast-becoming a global financial hub and a favorite destination for families and corporations alike. She has guided her community through race riots, public scrutiny around opportunities for economic mobility, and a global pandemic. Yet, she is optimistic about the city’s future and is mindful that the goals she set as mayor could not flourish without the individuals who work behind the scenes to make things happen. “I absolutely envisioned this growth. We have always been a banking town and being in finance and technology has helped us to always be current,” she added. We have benefited a great deal from that and from having great governance. Our growth may not have been planned in a book or document, but a lot of it was because we had a sense of who we are and the values we have as a community.”
Despite Charlotte’s evolution, one area where Lyles longs to see improvement is public education. “I think we should have a tremendously decorated public education system,” Lyles said of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, once viewed as a national model for successful integration for twenty years. “We were within its reach and then things happened [to change that], but I would like to see every young person have a quality public education.”
Given the Mayor’s commitment to shaping a city where everyone experiences a better quality of life, residents may very well see her desire come to pass in the near future. As a family-oriented individual, it only makes sense that the mother of two adult children and four granddaughters would want what is best for the more than 800,000 constituents for which she is responsible. n
Mayor Lyles at the Fourth of July Symphony with her beautiful grandchildren, Maya and Hailey.
Huntington Bank is showcasing Black-owned businesses in Charlotte by highlighting their unique stories and contributions to the community. This effort aims to elevate visibility and support for these enterprises, ultimately fostering economic growth and inclusivity. By delving into the narratives behind each business, Huntington not only champions diversity but also encourages local residents to engage and support these vibrant ventures.
DISCOVER THESE CHARLOTTE BUSINESS LEADERS ➔
CEO, Avant Pharmacy & Wellness Center President, Avant Institute
Amina Abubakar, CEO of Avant Pharmacy & Wellness Center and President of Avant Institute, graduated from the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy in 2005. She owns Avant Pharmacy, previously Rx Clinic Pharmacy, in Charlotte, NC, and is an award-winning clinical pharmacist and Certified HIV Specialty Pharmacist. Abubakar has served as a preceptor for UNC Chapel Hill residents and pharmacy students and was recognized as the 2020 Independent Pharmacist of the Year by the National Community Pharmacists Association, alongside the Bowl of Hygeia for her community service. She champions the role of community pharmacists in patient care by collaborating with healthcare providers and expanding clinical services. Inspired to advance the pharmacy profession, Abubakar founded the Avant Institute to train pharmacies nationwide on implementing clinical services and developing physician partnerships. Additionally, she actively advocates for pharmacy advancements, participating in discussions on pharmacogenomics at the White House and FDA.
Real Estate Broker NorthGroup Real Estate
Angela Burgess is a real estate broker with NorthGroup Real Estate, serving the greater Charlotte, NC metro area and parts of South Carolina. She specializes in helping clients build generational wealth through strategic real estate investments and provides comprehensive relocation services. With extensive market knowledge and a commitment to personalized service, Burgess has become a trusted advisor to luxury buyers, investors, and first-time homeowners alike. Her dedication to understanding each client’s unique needs allows her to create tailored strategies that align with their goals. Burgess holds a bachelor’s degree in finance and a master’s in human resources management. Before entering real estate, she spent years in the financial services industry, honing her skills in financial planning and client solutions. Originally from NC, she relocated to Charlotte from Baltimore and has lived in the area for over 20 years. Angela is a devoted wife and mother of three, and she serves her community with integrity and expertise.
The Main Event, Inc.
Rhonda E. Caldwell is the founder of The Main Event, a premier event planning company established in 2008.
A proud graduate of UNC-Charlotte, her journey began as an event manager for the university’s Jazzing and International Festival, laying the groundwork for her successful career. With over a decade of experience, Caldwell has been featured in NFocus Magazine, Today’s Charlotte Woman, and Charlotte Business Journal. Her work includes prestigious national events such as the Democratic National Convention and the Republican National Convention. She received the ILEA EVIE Award for “Best Corporate Event” for managing major corporate grand openings, galas, and conferences. Her accolades include the Small Business Enterprise of the Year Award and the CBJ Women in Business Award. Caldwell is active in the International Live Events Association, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and The Links, Inc. She is also certified as a Small Business Enterprise and Minority/Women Business Enterprise, contributing to her community through leadership and service.
President
Turf Commander Landscape Design
Willie “Will” Campbell is the President of Turf Commander Landscape Design, which provides commercial lawn maintenance, landscape design, and pest management services. Now in its 10th year, Turf Commander is a certified minority-owned and disadvantaged small business, serving notable clients like The Spectrum Center, Charlotte Convention Center, NASCAR Hall of Fame, and the Town of Weddington. Recent projects include redesigning the Veterans Memorial Garden, major installations at NASCAR, and beautification work at Carolina Crossing Shopping Plaza. A U.S. Army veteran, Will developed a passion for horticulture early on, gardening to relieve stress from traveling and consulting. In 2011, he pursued formal horticultural training and licensing to enhance his landscape design skills, stating, “The rest is history.” Under his leadership, Turf Commander continues to grow and make a significant impact in the community.
Executive Director
The Compassionate Companion™
Carla A. Carlisle, Executive Director of The Compassionate Companion™, is a Certified TraumaInformed Advocate, TEDx speaker, and awardwinning author. As a keynote speaker, she empowers communities to embrace trauma-informed practices and self-care. Drawing from her experiences detailed in her memoir Journey to the Son and her children’s books My Big Notebook and My Epic Flow, Carlisle provides tools for young people to process emotions and build resilience. Her book, The Compassionate Companion, offers guidance for foster, adoptive, and trauma caregivers. Her commitment to traumainformed care is evident in her work with the Mecklenburg County ReCAST program, where she supported over 700 residents through 50 workshops in six months. Additionally, she co-chairs the CA-LINC research study Advisory Board, focusing on Black youth suicide prevention and collaborates with Duke, UCLA, and Brown universities on related research. Carlisle holds degrees from The American University, Johns Hopkins University, and Indiana University.
Owner & Executive Director Be Centered Counseling and Consulting, PLLC
Kenya D. Dawson, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, is the owner and Executive Director of Be Centered Counseling and Consulting, PLLC, with over 13 years of experience in transformative counseling. She provides individual, group, and couples counseling, focusing on helping clients understand themselves, manage difficult emotions, and change behaviors. Central to Dawson’s approach is her belief in counseling as a collaborative relationship, where clients are seen as experts in their own lives. She encourages active engagement in a safe, non-judgmental environment. Her delivery is relational, straightforward, and restorative, with diverse experience in treating depression, anxiety, and stress-related challenges. To promote positive change, Dawson employs various interventions, emphasizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Through her practice, she is dedicated to rejuvenating her clients’ well-being and fostering meaningful growth.
Ed Roper is the President of NJR Construction, a commercial firm specializing in structural metal framing, drywall, acoustical ceilings, and painting. He co-founded the company in 2016 with partners Nelson and Jose Benitez, leading strategic growth initiatives that strengthened the company’s vision and client relationships. Under his leadership, NJR Construction has been honored with the Charlotte Business Journal’s Fast 50 award three times and the Inc. 5000 award twice. A native of Charlotte, Roper holds a bachelor’s degree from North Carolina A&T State University and an MBA from Keller Graduate School. He is actively involved in the community, volunteering with organizations like Communities in Schools and the Metrolina Minority Contractors Association. Roper serves on the board of the Carolinas Association of General Contractors, advocating for minority opportunities in commercial construction. He lives near uptown Charlotte with his wife, Lena, and their two children.
Kristen Stewart is a 20-year retail veteran who began her entrepreneurial journey in South End, Charlotte, North Carolina. In 2021, seeking more joy, she created Urban Sweets, initially as an ice cream pushcart concept. By 2022, she opened a dessert shop in South End and expanded her cart business to travel up to four hours. After a business evaluation in 2023, she closed the retail shop to focus on enhancing cart services and fostering large-scale vending collaborations. Urban Sweets, certified as NCHUB SBE and MWBE, hosts over 100 events annually, boasting a 94% customer return rate. A Greensboro native and North Carolina A&T State University graduate, Stewart spent 13 years in sales and marketing at a Fortune 100 company before launching her retail venture. Believing in community impact, she volunteers at local schools and works with scouts and organizations. A proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Stewart donates to Big Brothers Big Sisters, Dress for Success, and Good Friends Charlotte.
Owner & Principal Consultant
Thompson Consulting & Analytics
Ron Thompson is the Owner and Principal Consultant at Thompson Consulting and Analytics, with over 20 years of experience in economics and consulting. He specializes in economic impact analysis, commercial real estate consulting, disparity research, and predictive analytics. Ron has conducted indepth assessments for both public and private organizations, helping them gauge the broader effects of development projects and policies. His expertise covers urban development, transportation, and labor economics, delivering actionable insights for strategic decision-making. Notable collaborations include work with the Town of Evans, NY, and the City of Charlotte, NC. Ron also led the National Urban League’s Equality Index project, which analyzed disparities in the quality of life for African Americans. In commercial real estate, he conducts market feasibility studies and site assessments, helping developers and municipalities identify growth opportunities and address housing affordability. He holds both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in economics and has completed coursework for a Ph.D. in the field.
Owner & Dessert Artisan
The Dessert Destination
Mary Walker-Howard is the owner and dessert artisan at, The Dessert Destination. Walker-Howard’s knowledge and expertise in the dessert and pastry industry is attributed to her Professional Cake Design and Decorating Certification, which she earned from Central Piedmont Community College in 2016, along with her ServSafe Certification from the American National Standards Institute and years of baking experience. Walker-Howard loves to travel and spend quality time with her family and friends. She is married to The Honorable David Howard, and together they have four children, and four grandchildren.
Senior Vice President & Regional Community Development Manager
Renee Williams serves as the Senior Vice President and Regional Community Development Manager for Huntington National Bank, where she advances community development initiatives across several states. With a focus on philanthropy and community engagement, she works to empower underserved populations and drive sustainable economic change. Since joining Huntington 22 years ago, Williams has gained extensive experience in banking and financial services. She has spearheaded initiatives to provide access to capital for Black-owned businesses, earning recognition for her efforts in economic justice. In 2023, she received the NAACP Hazel R. Lewis Presidential Award for her impactful work in Metro Grand Rapids, Michigan. A native Detroiter and graduate of Wayne State University and Harvard University’s Public Leadership Credential Program, Williams is dedicated to mentorship and the development of programs for young professionals of color. Her commitment to community service reflects her belief in the importance of taking bold steps to create meaningful change.
TERMANN • NELLIE ASHFORD • DR. EDDIE L. HOOVER
FANNIE D. WATERMANN • NELLIE ASHFORD • DR. EDDIE
L. HOOVER • FANNIE D. WATERMANN • NELLIE ASHFORD
DR. EDDIE L. HOOVER • FANNIE D. WATERMANN • NELLIE
ASHFORD • DR. EDDIE L. HOOVER • FANNIE D. WATERMANN
NELLIE ASHFORD • DR. EDDIE L. HOOVER • FANNIE D.
Living Legends are revered for their exceptional contributions in their communities and beyond. They inspire with resilience and innovation, leaving an indelible mark on society, earning global admiration and respect.
FANNIE D. WATERMANN • NELLIE ASHFORD • DR. EDDIE
L. HOOVER • FANNIE D. WATERMANN • NELLIE ASHFORD
WATERMANN • NELLIE ASHFORD • DR. EDDIE L. HOOVERWho'sWhoInBlack
DR. EDDIE L. HOOVER • FANNIE D. WATERMANN • NELLIE
ASHFORD • DR. EDDIE L. HOOVER • FANNIE D. WATERMANN
NELLIE ASHFORD • DR. EDDIE L. HOOVER • FANNIE D.
WATERMANN • NELLIE ASHFORD • DR. EDDIE L. HOOVER
FANNIE D. WATERMANN • NELLIE ASHFORD • DR. EDDIE
L. HOOVER • FANNIE D. WATERMANN • NELLIE ASHFORD
BY BRITTNEY BOGUES
Ashford stands as a beacon of artistic innovation and inclusivity, embodying the very spirit of Charlotte’s artistic and cultural renaissance.”
In the heart of Charlotte’s rich cultural tapestry, Nellie Ashford shines as a true living legend. As the oldest female child adopted in Mecklenburg County, Ashford’s life is a testament to the power of heritage and the enduring impact of art. Her story is deeply intertwined with a profound sense of history and resilience.
Born into a legacy steeped in history, Ashford’s roots trace back to a time when her parents, born in the 1890s, navigated a world that was evolving rapidly. Their circle of friends, many of whom were former enslaved people, imbued in her a profound appreciation for history and a deep-seated respect for the resilience and artistry of past generations. This unique heritage has profoundly influenced Ashford ‘s artistic vision, allowing her to bridge generations through her work. She attended a segregated four-room schoolhouse before graduating from Plato Price High School. Ashford later earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and social science from Shaw University and is a self-taught artist.
Ashford began her art journey with a doodle done with her grandson and is now celebrated not only for her distinctive approach to art but also for her commitment to making art accessible to all. Her work has been featured in a number of special exhibits since the early 2000s. Her innovative use of real antiques in her creations does more than evoke a sense of nostalgia—it serves as a medium through which history is both preserved and reimagined. By incorporating these historical artifacts into her pieces, Ashford breathes new life into them, transforming the past into a vibrant, tactile experience that engages both the eyes and the hands. What truly sets Ashford apart is her dedication to intentional inclusivity. Her artwork is renowned globally for its rich textures, thoughtfully designed to be experienced by everyone, including those with visual and tactile sensitivities. This inclusive approach ensures that her art is
not just seen, but felt and enjoyed by all, regardless of their background or abilities. Her work challenges the boundaries of conventional art, inviting interaction and fostering a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical narratives embedded in each of her creations.
As a living legend in Charlotte, Nellie Ashford continues to inspire with her dedication to making art that is both historically significant and universally accessible. Her legacy is one of bridging past and present, of making history tactile and engaging while ensuring that art remains a powerful and inclusive force for all.
Ashford stands as a beacon of artistic innovation and inclusivity, embodying the very spirit of Charlotte’s artistic and cultural renaissance. Beyond her artistic achievements, Ashford finds immense joy in spending time with her family. Her role as a grandmother is a cherished part of her life, and her family serves as a source of inspiration and support.
Ashford’s impact on Charlotte is profound, reflecting the city’s rich history and its vibrant future. In celebrating Ashford, we honor not only her artistic contributions but also her role as a beloved family matriarch and a symbol of artistic and familial harmony. Her work and her life showcases the power of art to connect us all and to the enduring strength of family bonds. n
BY BRITTNEY BOGUES
Dr. Hoover’s journey is a powerful narrative of breaking new ground and overcoming significant obstacles.”
Dr. Eddie L. Hoover stands as a remarkable figure in the annals of medical history and education. His hardships and pioneering achievements have not only paved the way for future generations but also serve as a beacon of excellence and perseverance.
Born into an era where barriers were formidable and opportunities limited, Dr. Hoover’s journey is a powerful narrative of breaking new ground and overcoming significant obstacles. From a young age, Dr. Hoover demonstrated a profound commitment to biology although having no access to a lab, he was driven by a vision to contribute meaningfully to healthcare and education. His academic journey began at University of North Carolina Chapel Hill University, where he faced the challenges of being a trailblazer in a predominantly white institution. Despite these challenges, Dr. Hoover’s resolve never wavered.
Later graduating from Duke University School of Medicine to become a cardiothoracic surgeon, Dr. Hoover made history as its second Black graduate and the first Black resident in the Department of Surgery at the Duke University Medical College, both milestones that reflect both his exceptional capabilities and the shifting tides toward greater inclusivity in medical education. Dr. Hoover went on to hold many leadership positions at different institutions including Chief of Surgery at the Brooklyn VA Hospital, Chair of Department of Surgery at Meharry Medical College, and Chairman of Surgery at State University of New York at Buffalo.
Dr. Hoover’s influence extends beyond his historic graduation. As a medical professional, he has been a staunch advocate for diversity in healthcare, working to ensure that medical practice and education are inclusive and representative of all communities including being one of the founders of the Society of Black Academic Surgeons.
An organization dedicated to stimulating academic excellence among its members by providing resources and a forum of scholarship in collaboration with the leading Departments of Surgery in the U.S. As the first African American to serve on the editorial board of a major thoracic journal, his efforts have contributed to broader reforms aimed at increasing access to quality healthcare and education for underrepresented groups.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Dr. Hoover is celebrated for his contributions to mentorship and community service. He has dedicated significant time to mentoring young medical students and professionals, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and break through barriers. He has trained over 104 surgeons with two practicing internationally.
Dr. Hoover’s legacy is one of breaking barriers, fostering inclusivity, and inspiring future generations of medical professionals. His pioneering spirit and unwavering dedication continue to influence and uplift those who follow in his footsteps. As a Living Legend, Dr. Hoover exemplifies the profound impact that one individual’s courage and determination can have on shaping the future of medicine and education.
In recognizing Dr. Hoover, we honor not only his groundbreaking achievements but also his role in advancing a more equitable and inclusive world, setting a standard for excellence and resilience that continues to instill hope for a better and healthier future. n
BY RHONDA CROWDER,
BY PAUL WILLIAMS III
I had no idea I would be chosen to be in the movement,” she says. “I thought schools were for everybody.”
In 1958, Fannie D. Watermann committed an act of bravery, by attending the allwhite Central High School (later renamed Garinger).
Born in Charlotte, the youngest of four children, Watermann grew up in First Ward on Long Street. She recalls, as a little girl, sitting on the front steps, seeing students walking from Central, five blocks up the road. She also remembers people asking her, “What school do you want to go to?”
Unaware of race relations, she pointed toward Central and they laughed, telling her she couldn’t but never explaining why.
“I had no idea I would be chosen to be in the movement,” she says. “I thought schools were for everybody.”
As a result of her good grades and family’s background, a committee identified her to attend Central on the heels of a young Black man named Gus Roberts. He graduated a year before her.
On the first day, her father - a graduate of South Carolina State who worked as a carpenter and architect - offered to drive her. Not wanting to appear afraid, she declined. Along the way, she saw his green Ford from the corner of her eye along with onlookers, police and media.
Upon arrival, three girls greeted her and escorted her to the office. One asked, in a naive tone, “How do you have enough nerve?”
Watermann responded, “You are no better than I am.”
“ Who'sWhoInBlack
Watermann endured name-calling, spitballs, much solitude and even pushback from Blacks. But, her geography teacher’s remark, one day, took her over the top. The New Zealand native, said, “In my country, I was taught all Africans have tails.”
Watermann stood up and replied, “Would you like to see if I have a tail?”
Watermann then grabbed her books and left the class. She encountered the assistant principal, her father’s client or an angel as she calls him, and explained what
happened. That teacher faced disciplinary action.
Watermann, involved in music since Alexander Street Elementary School, sang in Garinger’s choir but couldn’t participate in the travel chorus because she wouldn’t have anywhere to stay on the road. She also had to use her middle name, Delores, because Fannie connotated a rear end.
“I lost a part of my identity,” she says.
She maintained good grades to become 1 of 476 in Garinger’s Class of 1961. She didn’t attend prom, and, when administrators attempted to convince her against participating in the ceremony, she insisted otherwise.
“I fought them to the very end. It wasn’t easy but it was necessary,” she says of her experience. “Hopefully, I made a difference.”
Watermann attended West Virginia State University where she majored in Music Composition and Communications and played the saxophone.
She later worked for CHUBB Group, retiring after 18 years. She plans to continue music studies online, taking piano lessons. She also sings in the First United Presbyterian Church choir.
She believes we - as a community - must remain focused.
“We can’t let our guard down, thinking this is it. We too matter in the equation of humanity,” says Watermann.
Waterman is mother to Lisa and Lorraine, grandmother of DeFerrus, Clement, Cree, and Isaiah and great-grandmother of Jaden,Tristan, and Jru. She also maintains an eight decade long friendship with Marizetta Lindsay and Wilhelmina Deas and has since befriended a former classmate, Phil Raiford, who was too afraid to speak to her in school yet admired from afar. He’s now one of her biggest supporters.” n
At JCSU, a lesson for student-athletes – and everyone
By Mary C. Curtis
After their efforts on the field, on the court or on the track, it was a win for college and university studentathletes when they were awarded the opportunity to parlay their name, image, and likeness into profit. But with that opportunity came a big responsibility.
“These young men, they may want to go to the NFL. But everybody’s not going – one percent will go,” said Frenchie Wilson Brown of Bank of America. “They’re thinking, ‘this is more money than I’ve ever seen in my life. What do I do with it?’”
How could they best learn the financial literacy lessons to ensure a successful future? And, beyond the money management, what tools are essential, whether that future included a professional sports career?
Brown had the answer in the form of a program she kick-started at her alma mater, University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Now it could pave the way for other universities, with Johnson C. Smith University first on the list.
“That’s a great part of working for the bank,” Brown said.
“It encourages us to donate our time, out talent and our treasure”
Brown’s mission and message for the athletes? “We’re not only giving you the financial piece of it. We now need to come and talk to you about life skills.”
With the support and expertise of Bank of America (BofA), where she has worked for more than 27 years, Brown has shared her own and the bank’s expertise starting with BofA’s Better Money Habits (BMH) program, free for users, which offers concrete
steps that have helped many achieve their financial goals. It is free to anyone and can be facilitated by “champions,” which are Bank of America volunteers who go into the community and engage in meaningful conversations about money. Brown is a BMH Charlotte co-chair.
To that, she has added her own background in leadership and motivational speaking, “encouraging others to be their best selves,” with contributions from other partners at the bank and in the community.
A conversation with fellow UNCC alum, Rhonda Caldwell, about the program’s success with UNCC’s football team spurred an idea. Caldwell said, “We need to do this at Smith,” and quickly made the connection.
Brown contacted Maurice Flowers, football coach at JCSU. The coach’s reaction? “We need you,” Brown remembered him saying. “We need you to come and share with our football team and others on the campus.”
The leaders met at the Charlotte HBCU weekly, from
July through August 2024, and facilitated open and candid conversations about included topics that ranged from Negotiations 101 and Managing Your Brand to Networking and Dealing with Imposter Syndrome. The track team, coaches and others on staff joined, about 85 to 100 in all.
As in any sport, it took teamwork, a collaboration of one bank program and two internal networks whose members facilitated -- Better Money Habits (BMH), the Black Executive Leadership Council Charlotte (BELC CLT), the Black Professional Group (BPG) -- and the two universities.
And, as it turned out, luckily and logically, others from Bank of America with JCSU affiliations had also recognized the benefits of bringing the program to the university and were working to make it all come together. That team was strengthened by the contributions of President of Bank of America Charlotte and Johnson C. Smith University Trustee and Vice Chair, Kieth Cockrell, and Kristerpher J Smith, Senior Vice President, Strategy & Initiatives Manager and Johnson C. Smith University College of Business and Professional Studies Dean’s Executive Advisory Board Member. In a full circle moment, the program is returning to JCSU, where it will expand its availability to the university community at large, with the support of JCSU president Dr. Valerie Kinloch. Other schools in conversation with Brown and BofA include Clinton College, a private HBCU in Rock Hill, S.C. At UNCC, the women’s basketball and volleyball teams will be next on the empowerment journey, said Brown.
The further development of what is already a lifechanging program promises to add another line to Brown’s extensive list of community activities. Her day job is Senior Vice President, Consumer & Small Business, but she is also YWCA of Central Carolinas PresidentElect, Deltas of Charlotte Foundation affiliate project manager, and UNC Charlotte Alumni board of directors’ immediate past president.
The commitment is possible, said Brown, because of Bank of America’s support. “That’s a great part of working for the bank,” she said. “It encourages us to donate our time, ou talent and our treasure.” n
At Truist, creating an inclusive and energizing environment is not just a commitment; it’s integral to our purpose and mission. We actively cultivate a brave and supportive environment where every individual feels empowered to share their unique perspectives and experiences. By celebrating the differences that unite us, we foster creativity and innovation, driving us to push beyond conventional boundaries. Our dedication to belonging and inclusion for all is woven into every facet of our operations. We strive for voices with diverse perspectives to be not only heard but also valued, reinforcing our belief that a richly diverse workforce across all dimensions enhances our ability to serve our clients and communities effectively and drive business outcomes. In doing so, we create a culture that champions belonging and respect, paving the way for lasting positive change.
Chief Consumer and Small Business Banking Officer
Dontá L. Wilson is the Chief Consumer and Small Business Banking Officer for Truist Financial Corporation and a member of Truist’s Operating Council. He leads 20,000 teammates who serve retail, premier and small business clients through digital banking, multiple virtual service centers and community banking branches. Additionally, he oversees core deposit and loan products, also including mortgage, auto, credit card, and national consumer lending businesses; as well as consumer capital markets; consumer credit underwriting and approval; enterprise marketing; client analytics; client experience strategy; and digital banking, transformation and innovation. Wilson serves on Signet Jewelers’ Board of Directors and is vice chairman of the University of North Carolina at Charlotte’s Trustee Board. He has been named one of Savoy’s Top Black Executives since 2016 and was chosen Digital Banker of the Year by American Banker in 2021. Wilson is a member of Global 50/ World 50, Executive Leadership Council, Sigma Pi Phi (Boulé) and Kappa Alpha Psi, Inc.
Anthony Weekly is Chief Community Reinvestment Act Officer at Truist, where he’s responsible for collaborating with community development partners and regulators to help meet the credit needs of lowto moderate-income individuals and communities in Truist markets. Weekly joined Truist in 2015, bringing over 30 years of sales, leadership, strategic project management, and recruiting experience with progressive responsibilities in the mortgage banking and financial services industries. An avid community supporter, Weekly volunteers with numerous organizations, including advising the National Housing Conference’s National Advisory Council and the Consumer Bankers Association CRA Committee. Additionally, he serves as a board member of the National Association of Affordable Housing Lenders, Bankers Community Collaborative Council National Community Reinvestment Coalition and Veterans Bridge Home. Weekly earned his bachelor’s degree in business management from the University of Detroit Mercy. He’s also a graduate of Michigan Military Academy and a former second lieutenant in the Army National Guard.
Natasha Goddard-Cureton is a seasoned HR professional and Executive Vice President, Chief Human Capital Enablement Officer at Truist. In this role, Goddard-Cureton serves as the strategic HR leader for Consumer and Small Business Banking. She sets and oversees the vision and strategies for human capital initiatives and leads a dynamic team responsible for linking these initiatives to business strategies. In her 30 years with Truist, GoddardCureton has worked in various roles of increasing responsibility within HR, including compensation, talent acquisition, and employee relations. GoddardCureton received her bachelor’s degree in industrial and labor relations from Cornell University and a master’s degree in management from University of Maryland Global Campus. Outside of work, GoddardCureton gives back to the community by serving on the Board of Directors for Goodwill Industries of Northwest NC and as a member of the HR Committee for the YMCA of Northwest NC.
Keith L. Thornton, head of Total Rewards for Truist Financial Corporation, oversees all aspects of executive, broad-based and equity compensation, recognition, and benefit plans for teammates and retirees. He develops compensation and benefit strategies that drive growth, attract and retain talent, optimize the workforce and drive productivity. He has demonstrated strong internal and external stakeholder management skills in a complex, highly regulated industry. Thornton also has more than twenty years of experience as an accomplished attorney. He joined Truist in 2018 as Deputy General Counsel of Employment and quickly assumed additional Deputy Corporate Secretary responsibilities. He primarily focused on employment, compensation, benefits, and corporate law. He has also held roles at Wells Fargo and Bank of America. Thornton earned his Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice at the University of Maryland and his Juris Doctorate in Law at George Washington University.
Premier Banking Executive
Rhondale Haywood is the Premier Banking Executive for Truist Financial Corporation. He leads a team of dedicated financial professionals providing personalized advice by listening, planning, coaching, and collaborating with each client to achieve their goals. With more than 18 years of banking experience, Haywood has held various roles within wealth management at Bank of America and PNC Bank prior to joining Truist in 2023. He previously served as a Division Investment Director, leading a team of investment managers in the Western, Central and Mid-Atlantic Divisions. Passionate about community involvement, Haywood serves on the board of Thompson, a mental health organization, and the Levine Museum of the New South. He also serves on the Foundation of the Carolinas’ Investment Committee. Haywood holds a bachelor’s in business management from Hampton University, and an MBA from Rutgers University. He is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a Chartered Financial Analyst®.
Yolande Matthew currently serves as the Financial Inclusion Executive for Truist. In her role, she focuses on the bank’s Financial Inclusion priorities to help clients and prospects build financial confidence. As part of her role, she is responsible for leading initiatives and partnerships for Truist including Operation HOPE, and an in-market team across Truist footprint dedicated to delivering care through community outreach, providing solutions and financial education expertise to enable client success. Matthew has over 19 years of dynamic experience working in the Financial Services Industry, leading high performing teams and driving impact by putting purpose into action, to empower clients and teammates with the tools and resources to help build better lives and communities. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Management & Finance from Brooklyn College. When she is not working, she enjoys visiting her home country of Grenada, spending time with family and watching football.
Eric Lewis is the interim head of small business banking at Truist Financial Corporation, focusing on delivering comprehensive advice and support to clients throughout their business lifecycle via an omni-channel, advisory-driven approach. Previously, as director of the small business segment, he enhanced client and teammate experiences in solutions delivery, lending, analytics, and operations. He also led the development of Business Connect, a virtual go-to-market model for clients with $2-$10 million in annual sales, which has successfully scaled across Truist and tripled revenue generation with reduced costs. Lewis has held multiple Market President roles in the Greater Washington/Maryland region. He earned a bachelor’s in business administration-Finance from the University of Maine, where he was a standout football player. Lewis graduated from the Truist Banking School at Wake Forest University in 2008. He enjoys reading, podcasts, and traveling with his wife and two children, and is a dedicated Buffalo Bills fan.
Director, Connected Channel Management and Engagement
Sparkle Douglas is Director of Connected Channel Management and Engagement for digital, client experience, and marketing. Her team is responsible for integration of the Connected Channel Strategy and works cross-functionally to deliver optimal teammate and client experiences, as well as, create performance targets and provide business optimization through analytics, portfolio management and strategic programming. Sparkle serves on the Charlotte Works board of directors. Douglas started her career in banking in 2001 as a Change Analyst in the Technology & Operations organization at Bank of America. After spending a decade as an entrepreneur and independent consultant, Douglas re-joined the bank in 2012 as a Digital Banking Senior Product Consultant. Douglas assumed a leadership role for Digital-toPhysical Referrals in 2017 and combined teams with the Digital Adoption organization in April 2018. In September of 2020 she took a role focused on Retail Digital Strategy. In June of 2021, Douglas joined Truist to lead Enterprise Digital Strategy.
Senior Vice President, Director of Leadership and Philanthropy Programs, Truist Leadership Institute
Latonya D. Croney is Senior Vice President, Director of Leadership and Philanthropy Programs at Truist Leadership Institute. With 30 years of experience at Truist, she now contributes to the strategic direction and oversees the leadership and philanthropy programs team which facilitates curriculum for Truist, corporate clients, and philanthropic partners. She has held this position since March 2023 and is a member of Truist Leadership Institute’s Senior Leadership Team. Croney holds a BS in business administration from UNC at Chapel Hill, is an alumnus of Stonier Graduate Banking School, and a Gallup Certified Strengths Coach. Driven by a purpose to champion and create space for distinction and excellence, she is committed to driving positive change and supporting the development of future leaders. Croney, an avid traveler, is active with the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) and is a former board member for the Autism Society of North Carolina.
Louis Freeman is originally from New York but grew up just outside of Atlanta, Georgia. He earned a BS in Industrial Engineering from Clemson University and a master’s degree in Finance from Clark Atlanta University. He began his career as an underwriter with the Georgia Housing Finance Authority. He has held positions at the Georgia Housing Finance Authority, The District of Columbia Housing Finance Agency and the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta. In 2013, Freeman joined Truist Community Development Department as the Community Development Manager in Virginia and Maryland. In 2015, he moved to Florida to direct and promote Truist Bank activities around affordable housing, community development, and financial education. Freeman currently serves as the CRA, Managing Director of Partnerships and Services at Truist. He is based in Charlotte, North Carolina where he leads the development and implementation of innovative and scalable, national and multi-regional initiatives that demonstrate the Bank’s commitment to small businesses and underserved communities.
SVP, Client Events Marketing Sr. Manager
Brian Shufford current role is leader of Truist’s Event Marketing team, responsible for the strategy and execution of the various line of businesses’ client facing events as well as the enterprise’s sports and entertainment hospitality programming. Success in this role lies with creating experiences to drive business, brand awareness, and unique opportunities for clients. He has 24 years’ experience, all at Truist, in consumer banking, marketing, events, and sponsorships with a career that began as a Retail banker. One of his proudest moments was being a part of the Sponsorship team that led the work on Truist Park. Originally from Richmond, VA, Shufford is a proud graduate of Old Dominion University with a degree in Marketing/Accounting and a Masters in Sports Marketing from Virginia Commonwealth University. His personal purpose is to help individuals realize their full potential.
Senior Vice President, Director of Grants Management
With over 25 years of experience in both the private and public sectors, Nicole Royster is a strategic leader dedicated to helping organizations achieve their goals and maximize impact. Since 2020, she has served as the Director of Grants Management for the Truist Foundation, overseeing a multimillion-dollar portfolio and managing the grants management system and reporting processes. Her extensive background includes roles in Corporate Treasury, Risk Management, and Governance and Assurance. A native of Fayetteville, North Carolina, Royster has received the Truist Performance Award (2022) and was recognized as a 40 Under 40 award recipient while at Truist. She holds a degree in Business Administration (Banking and Finance) from Johnson C. Smith University and a Master of Public Administration from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke. Royster is active in her community, serving on various boards and mentoring students. In her free time, she enjoys baking, traveling, and spending quality time with family and friends.
Managing Director, Truist Securities
Brian Morgan’s current role is the FX Sales Coverage Lead for Commercial & Community Banking at Truist. In this role he provides purpose-driven solutions to those bank clients managing financial risks of the Foreign Exchange and International Payments markets. He is committed to supporting these companies to grow their businesses globally, while providing a client-specific approach to understanding the complex world of Foreign Exchange. Morgan has served in various Sales and Leadership roles with Truist Securities (and its predecessor SunTrust Robinson Humphrey) since 2008. Prior, he was with Wachovia Bank for over a decade in similar roles. He is also active outside of Truist, as he serves on the Board of Advisors for the Department of Finance, Howard University School of Business. He is also a member of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc., Board Member Renaissance West Community Initiative, and many other community involvements. Morgan holds a bachelor’s degree from Howard University and an MBA from Georgia State University.
Senior Managing Director and Regional Director
Travis O’Quinn is the Senior Managing Director and Regional Director for Truist. He provides leadership to the Financial Advisors in Truist Wealth’s Private Client and Investment Services Groups in North Carolina, covering the Triangle, Triad, and Eastern regions. With over 20 years of wealth management experience, including 18 years at Truist, he focuses on coaching advisors to enhance their capabilities and drive growth, while ensuring impactful contributions to organizational success. Committed to service, O’Quinn co-founded the Diverse Advisor Summit and the Diverse Development Program at Truist, promoting inclusivity and development. Beyond his professional role, he serves as Chair of Finance and Trustee at his church and is actively involved in charitable efforts with his wife and two children. O’Quinn holds a B.S. in accounting/financial analysis, an M.B.A., and various securities licenses, including Series 7, 24, and 66. He also earned credentials from the Truist School of Banking at Wake Forest University.
Senior Vice President, Community Development Manager, CRA Community Development Banking
Mitch Gibson oversees Community Reinvestment Act funding in the state of North Carolina for Truist. In his role as a community development manager Gibson engages nonprofits who serve low to moderate income populations and small businesses with revenues of less than $1 million. This engagement includes reviewing their grant proposals and identifying opportunities for Truist teammates to support their communities through involvement with these organizations. Prior to joining Truist, he spent 13 years at Bank of America as SVP Strategic Relationships Manager. In that role, he managed several of Bank of America’s national multicultural partnerships. Early in his career, he led finance organizations at General Electric, Sara Lee, and Siemens. Gibson is a trustee at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church; sits on the City of Charlotte Neighborhood Equity and Stabilization committee; board member of United Way of Greater Charlotte; and board member of the National Junior College Athletic Association Foundation.
Senior Vice President & Commercial Banker
Rondell Gaddist is Senior Vice President and Commercial Banker for Truist Bank. With more than 24 years of banking experience and a decade in Commercial Lending, he oversees a large lending and deposit portfolio in the competitive Charlotte market where he provides strategic financial guidance to a diverse range of clients. Originally from Cross, South Carolina, Gaddist earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Political Science from Francis Marion University before relocating to Charlotte in 2000. Over the years, Gaddist has built a strong reputation for delivering personalized financial solutions that drive growth and success for his clients. Gaddist is dedicated to community service and has served as a faithful volunteer for Classroom Central, Junior Achievement, and Samaritan’s Feet. Outside of his professional and volunteer work, he enjoys spending time with his family. Gaddist is married to Angela Richmond Gaddist, and they have one adult daughter, Raven Gaddist.
Christian Robinson is a Senior Vice President and Wealth Advisor at Truist Financial Corporation, responsible for managing relationships with highnet-worth clients. Since February 2022, he has provided financial advice in areas like investments, credit, banking, and estate planning. Before joining Truist, Robinson spent ten years at J.P. Morgan Chase & Co. in its Private Bank. He holds an MBA from the Kenan-Flagler Business School at UNC Chapel Hill and began his career at Lehman Brothers in the Fixed Income Division, structuring hedge fund derivative products. Robinson is actively involved on several boards, including the Charlotte Latin School, Central Piedmont Community College Foundation, University of Georgia Alumni Association, and Sugar Creek Charter School. He has also served on the Boards of Visitors for both the University of Georgia and UNC.
of Enterprise Recruiting, Strategic Pipelines, and Leadership
With over 24 years of experience in the financial services sector, Joyner serves as Truist’s Director of Enterprise Recruiting, Strategic Pipelines, and Leadership Programs. This role enables her to live out her purpose of inspiring and building better lives and communities. A graduate of both Salem College and Wake Forest University; the Winston-Salem, NC native has developed expertise in early career recruitment, program management, and diversity initiatives. Throughout her career, Joyner has played a pivotal role in shaping strategies that enhance organizational culture and drive performance. Joyner’s passion is to increase accessibility to opportunities. With this aspiration in mind, Joyner has served on numerous DEI committees, college boards, and local non-profits. Joyner currently sits on the Read Charlotte Governing Board, is a Co-Chair of Salem College’s Capital Campaign and Alumnae Board Chair of Alumnae Awards, Truist representative on CELC’s Committees, and voting member for Truist Contributions Committee.
DIVERSE EXPERIENCES
GROUNDBREAKING IDEAS
VISIONARY LEADERS
Bonita Buford PRESIDENT AND CEO
THE HARVEY B. GANTT CENTER FOR AFRICAN-AMERICAN ARTS + CULTURE
BY DONALD JAMES, PHOTO BY PAUL WILLIAMS III
As President and CEO of the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture in Charlotte, Bonita Buford heads one of the nation’s most storied institutions of its kind. Founded in 1974 as the Afro-American Cultural and Service Center before transitioning to become the Gantt Center in 2009, the mission of the historic center, now celebrating its 50th anniversary, has remained the same: Presenting, preserving, and celebrating excellence in the arts, history, and culture of African Americans and people of African descent.
“In thinking about the Gantt, I believe it is my responsibility to ensure that the organization continues to thrive so that our staff can present exceptional exhibitions and innovative programs that engender change,” said Buford. “I am merely the face for the stellar work that they accomplish.”
Buford credits her childhood experiences and upbringing with shaping her early awareness of Black history, culture, and the arts.
“My childhood in St. Louis played a big part in who I am,” said Buford. “Our home was steeped in the arts – music, specifically straight-ahead jazz, was the soundtrack. My mother loved crafts, and decorating and re-decorating our home. My father was an active member of the Black Power Movement in the 1960s and 1970s.”
After high school, Buford earned a math degree from Spelman College and a chemical engineering degree from Georgia Institute of Technology. She subsequently worked in operational and management positions – nationally and internationally – in the chemical industry.
Following a successful career in private industry, Buford joined the Gantt Center in 2005 as a volunteer. She subsequently held positions as a consultant, Director of Communications and Operations, and COO before taking the reins of President and CEO in January 2024. And as the old adage goes – or should go: The rest is Black history!
As the Gantt Center celebrates its incredible milestone in 2024 through a series of programs, exhibits, and community activities, it also prepares for its next chapter. Buford stands at the vanguard chronicling the past but looks to the future to discover innovative ways to celebrate Black people through their history, arts, culture, and vast and ongoing contributions.
“I have the privilege of standing on the shoulders of our founders, legions of board members, and the executive directors who came before me, especially my predecessor, David Taylor, who positioned the Gantt Center well,” Buford said. “What I may have influenced is the level of excellence that we strive for – always – and a drive to serve the community.” n
Ghartey-Tagoe EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, CHIEF LEGAL OFFICER & CORPORATE SECRETARY DUKE ENERGY
BY RHONDA CROWDER, PHOTO COURTESY OF DUKE ENERGY
Kodwo Ghartey-Tagoe serves as executive vice president, chief legal officer and corporate secretary for Duke Energy. He is the primary legal advisor to Duke Energy’s board of directors and senior management, and leads the Office of the General Counsel, which includes the company’s legal, corporate governance, internal audit, and ethics and compliance functions. Additionally, he is responsible for the human resources function.
Prior to being named chief legal officer in October 2019 and corporate secretary in May 2020, GharteyTagoe served as president of Duke Energy’s utility operations in South Carolina, which serves approximately 800,000 electric retail customers and 157,000 natural gas customers. He was responsible for the financial performance of Duke Energy’s regulated electric utilities in South Carolina and managing state and local regulatory and government relations, and community affairs. He also had responsibility for advancing the company’s legislative and regulatory initiatives related to its electric operations.
Joining the company in 2002 as chief regulatory counsel for Duke Power, Ghartey-Tagoe has held numerous leadership positions in the legal department covering several areas of legal services to Duke Energy. He served as Duke Energy’s senior vice president of state and federal regulatory legal support; general counsel for litigation; and vice president, legal, for Duke Energy’s Commercial Businesses organization. He also served as vice president, legal-state regulation for Duke Energy’s franchised electric and gas business. Before joining the company, Ghartey-Tagoe was a partner with McGuireWoods LLP in Richmond, Va.
Ghartey-Tagoe serves on the board of directors of Energy Insurance Mutual, Ltd. He is also a member of the President’s Advisory Board of Clemson University and the board of TreesCharlotte. In 2000, Ghartey-Tagoe was appointed by Gov. Gilmore of Virginia to serve on the board of visitors of Virginia State University, one of the nation’s most venerated historically Black institutions of higher learning. He served on that board for three years.
Ghartey-Tagoe was named one of Savoy Magazine’s 2024 Most Influential Executives in Corporate America. He also received the Diversity Champion Award from the Charlotte Business Journal, and an Award of Excellence for his outstanding achievements in the legal profession and his dedication to diversity in the workplace from the Thurgood Marshall College Fund in 2013.
A native of Ghana, Ghartey-Tagoe earned a Juris Doctor from Duke University and a Bachelor of Arts degree, with joint honors in economics and finance, from McGill University in Montreal, Quebec. He also completed the Advanced Management Program at the Wharton School of Business. In 2017, Ghartey-Tagoe was conferred an honorary Doctor of Humanities degree by Francis Marion University. Ghartey-Tagoe and his wife, Phyllis, have three daughters. n
Raichelle “Rai” Glover
REGIONAL PRESIDENT, GREATER/METRO CHARLOTTE
HUNTINGTON BANK
BY RHONDA CROWDER, PHOTO COURTESY OF RAI GLOVER
Raichelle “Rai” Glover began her journey in banking without realizing it would become her lifelong career. Growing up in a family of educators — her mother taught French and English for 60 years, while her father taught architectural engineering for 54 years — she was instilled with strong morals and values that continue to shape her today. As the youngest of six siblings, including a medical doctor, lawyer, biologists, and counselor, Glover initially aspired to become a lawyer and join her brother’s law firm in Houston, Texas.
Encouraged by a teacher to join the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), Glover took a summer job at a bank and quickly uncovered her passion for numbers and discovered the impact various financial capabilities can have to help businesses thrive. Balancing work with her college studies, she maintained a strong GPA, motivated by the opportunity to contribute to her family’s first colored television.
In corporate America, Glover learned valuable lessons about integrity and respect. Known for her “velvet hammer” leadership style, she has embraced every challenge throughout her career. She is inspired by the progress women have made in the workplace and believes in the importance of supporting and promoting others.
Glover emphasizes continuous learning and encourages others to seek expertise. Work-life balance is an ongoing journey for her, shaped by her experiences as a mother. She recalls her daughter questioning why she was leaving at dark time for a red-eye flight to New York for work. Rai learned to release the pressure of achieving perfection in this area, focusing instead on doing her best.
In her current role at Huntington Bank, where she joined less than a year ago, Glover is dedicated to serving business owners, clients, and the community.
Glover takes pride in working with a dedicated team committed to Huntington’s mission. She believes the bank’s local focus fosters meaningful connections with customers and communities. With a legacy dating back to 1866, Huntington has been a part of the Carolinas for nearly a decade, and Glover is proud of the bank’s growth and positive impact in the region. n
Lou Hawkins
GLOBAL EMPLOYEE TECH SUPPORT EXECUTIVE BANK OF AMERICA
BY LOÁN C. LAKE, PHOTO COURTESY OF BANK OF AMERICA
Lou Hawkins is a humble man who does his work with integrity, excellence, and unquestionable quality without expecting accolades in return. In fact, his humility was evident in the surprise he expressed at being named a Who’s Who in Black Charlotte ‘Game Changer’ by his employer, Bank of America.
Hawkins, a twenty-one-year employee of Bank of America, serves as the Global Employee Tech Support Executive. In this capacity, he leads a team that provides technology support for all bank employees. “I take my work very seriously and I believe that you should be doing things in a certain way, with a certain level of professionalism and excellence. If that’s a function of being a game changer, then I guess I am,” he said. “There’s a standard that I hold myself accountable to, so I don’t want my name or my brand to be associated with anything that’s not top notch or the best. I’m very conscious about that.”
Hawkins never set out to receive accolades but had big dreams for himself. He earned his bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership & supervision from Purdue University in Indiana, and obtained his master’s degree in business administration from the Simon School of Business at the University of Rochester, New York. “For me, it’s recognizing that I’ve come from very humble beginnings. I’m a product of the South Side of Chicago, and for someone like me, I’ve probably broken the mold. I’m a first generation college graduate, and I’ve always had a desire to do more and be more,” he shared. “I recognized the importance of an education, because that was instilled in me early on, and I knew that it could take me out of the environment that I grew up in.”
His journey to Charlotte came as a result of a fortuitous call from a former schoolmate who worked at Bank of America and wanted to recruit Hawkins for his skillset in engineering, technology
and operations. Though he had not previously worked in financial services, he said yes to the opportunity and moved his family to the Queen City. A certified Six Sigma Black Belt, Hawkins has held numerous leadership roles at Bank of America , including Chief Operations Officer of its Global Delivery Center of Expertise; the Business Planning and Strategy Development Executive for Capital Markets and Wholesale Banking Technology; and a Senior Process Design Engineer for the Quality & Productivity Deposits Team.
While work may have brought him to Charlotte over two decades ago, it quickly became home for him, his wife, and his twin son (who now resides in Austin, Texas), and daughter (now deceased). Hawkins’ connection to Charlotte is deepened by the spiritual community and foundation he has developed as a member of The Park Church. He considers it part of his ministry to serve the community, and he currently sits on the Board of Directors for the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African American Arts & Culture. He is also a former board member for Goodwill Industries of Southern Piedmont and board chair of the Board of Managers for Bethune Mays Classical Academy.
“One of the main reasons we are still here is because of the growth that we’ve had spiritually. We found a church here that has really, really poured into us. We have grown spiritually beyond anything we could have ever imagined,” Hawkins said. “This was a total surprise to me. I never would have thought about me being someone to be eligible or considered for a ‘Who’s Who of [Black] Charlotte.’ I just do what I do, because this is where God has placed me, and I feel like this is the work that I should be doing.” n
Cheryl Luckett
INTERIOR DESIGNER
DWELL BY CHERYL
BY BRITTNEY BOGUES, PHOTO BY PAUL WILLIAMS III
Cheryl Luckett, an innovative interior designer based in Charlotte, North Carolina, embodies the spirit of reinvention. Born and raised in Gulfport, Mississippi, to a family of educators — her father a middle school principal and her mother a guidance counselor — Luckett’s early life was steeped in the values of education and support. This nurturing environment laid the foundation for her multifaceted career.
Luckett attended Tennessee State University in Nashville, where family influence guided her choice of study. She majored in Food and Nutrition, earning a BS in family and consumer science. Her journey continued with postgraduate studies to become a dietitian, leading her to a role in public health in North Carolina. After a year, a connection within a food-based company brought her to Compass Group, where she spent a decade managing K-12 school nutrition programs.
In a pivotal moment of self-discovery, Luckett sought mentorship and transitioned to a role in HR focused on diversity and inclusion. Yet, as she navigated her professional path, a hidden passion for design emerged. Her creative instincts drew her toward design and she was hooked. Enrolling in a design class at a junior college was a transformative experience — she found her true calling.
Motivated to take the leap, Luckett began a 36-month exit plan, collaborating with a financial planner and honing her design skills through classes and networking. Starting with a blog then
evolving to a full-fledged business. On December 30, 2016, she took the courageous step to launch her own business full-time, Dwell by Cheryl Interiors, officially debuting in January 2017.
Dwell by Cheryl Interiors specializes in creating residential spaces for busy individuals, characterized by a signature style that is classic, colorful, cultured, and cozy. Recognizing the importance of bringing beauty and comfort into homes, Luckett has launched two product lines: Wildwood Lighting and a fabric collection with Revolution, further establishing her mark in the design world.
Luckett’s journey from a successful career in nutrition and public health to a thriving interior design business is a testament to the power of following one’s passion. Her story inspires others to embrace change and pursue what truly resonates with their spirit.
Luckett’s unwavering commitment to her craft and her clients continues to redefine what it means to create a home. With every project, she proves that it’s never too late to pivot and pursue your dreams, making her a true Game Changer in the world of interior design and beyond. n
Dan Lugo PRESIDENT QUEENS UNIVERSITY
BY DONALD JAMES, PHOTO COURTESY OF QUEENS UNIVERSITY
Daniel G. Lugo, J.D. began his distinguished service as Queens University of Charlotte president on July 1, 2019. Since taking the reins of the storied private university in the heart of Charlotte, Lugo, the school’s 21st president, has ramped up his laser-focus approach to fostering student success through creative, innovative, and inspirational academic programming.
“We are a comprehensive university, so first and foremost, we focus on assuring that we continue to have the very best academic programs and majors possible,” said Lugo. “To be successful, we have added more innovative undergraduate programs, and we have taken all of our core schools that offer graduate programs and coordinated them to be much more connected.”
According to Queens’ website, the 167-year-old university offers 51 majors, 66 minors, and 36 graduate programs. In U.S. News and World Report’s listing of Best Colleges, Queens is ranked No. 17 in the category Regional Universities South and No. 8 in Undergraduate Teaching.
“Queens is a very distinctive institution that gives our learners – undergraduate and graduate students – access to the best faculty you can imagine and their disciplines in intimate learning settings,” Lugo said. “We emphasize learning in small classroom environments versus some larger universities.”
Like most colleges and universities across America, sports often play a huge role in gaining visibility for the respective institutions of higher learning. To help rebrand Queens University of Charlotte, Lugo was instrumental in guiding the school to move its NCAA athletics program from Division II to Division I.
“We now have 25 NCAA Division I teams and over 600 Division I athletes who are competitive in the Atlantic Sun Conference,” Lugo explained. “This gives us greater exposure in the media and several of the Southeastern U.S. business capitals.”
Lugo, a native of Amityville, New York, said that the Queens’ student population is slightly less than 2,000 students, adding the school is largely a residential institution. When asked, Lugo estimated that about 10 to 15% of the student population is African American over the past decade.
“I am proud of our legacy of enrolling and graduating African Americans,” Lugo said. “We are honored that the mayor of Charlotte, Vi Lyles, graduated from Queens University of Charlotte. In addition, Board of Trustees Chair Jesse J. Cureton, Jr., a retired health care and banking senior executive, received his MBA from Queens. Many more African Americans have graduated from Queens and gone on to do great things in society.”
For Lugo, excelling in higher education has been the key to his successful career. He holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Carleton College and a Juris Doctor (JD) from the University of Minnesota. Before serving as president of Queens, Lugo was VP for College Advancement at Colby College and VP and Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid at Franklin and Marshall College.
As Lugo leads Queens University of Charlotte into its next chapter, the future looks bright.
“If you are looking for an excellent and rigorous education at a place where you will be supported as an individual, Queens should be one of your top choices,” said Lugo, who has seen admission applications to the university soar by almost 60% since he arrived five years ago as president. “We are Charlotte’s most storied institution and take our role in education and this community very seriously. We play an important role in moving society and the economy forward.” n
Kimberly Moore-Wright CHIEF TEAMMATE OFFICER HEAD OF ENTERPRISE DIVERSITY TRUIST FINANCIAL CORPORATION
BY KEVIN D. HEARD, PHOTO BY PAUL WILLIAMS III
Kimberly Moore-Wright is the Chief Teammate Officer and Head of Enterprise Diversity at Truist Financial Corporation, where she oversees a wide array of responsibilities related to human resource management. In 2019, she was named Chief Human Resources Officer of Truist following the merger of Branch Banking and Trust Co. (BB&T) and SunTrust Banks, which formed Truist, headquartered in Charlotte.
“Charlotte is an amazing city,” states Moore-Wright. “It’s an amazing community with a lot of growth, and we are continuing to invest, not just in the business community, but from an infrastructure perspective, so that all of Charlotte can feel like they are part of the success of this community.”
Her interest in banking began through her father, who was a baker, and his work left a lasting impression on her.
“In remembering my dad, I think about where I am and the career that I have today,” she reflects. “He was in the banking business at a time when there weren’t a lot of people that looked like him. I know I’m able to be where I am because of his struggles, and I stand firmly on his shoulders. I still meet people that say my dad gave them their first business loan that enabled them to grow something that still exists today. That also speaks to the fact that banking is still a very noble position in providing people capital to not only recognize their dreams of starting a business, but starting businesses that provide employment for others.”
During college she joined the INROADS Internship Program. This experience allowed her to gain insights into both the behind-the-scenes operations of a bank and the client-facing aspects, shaping her understanding of the industry from multiple perspectives.
Moore-Wright has dedicated nearly 30 years to the Truist. She holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from UNC Charlotte and an MBA from North Carolina State University. Her impressive career path includes helping develop the Truist name and brand during the merger.
Moore-Wright is active in her community, serving on the boards of the Truist Foundation and Freedom School Partners, a nonprofit organization providing literacy and enrichment programs for underserved children. She is also a member of The Links, Inc. and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She is actively involved with the Go Red For Women initiative of the American Heart Association, currently serving as co-chair for the Charlotte campaign. Her passion for this work stems from her commitment to health equity, especially for young girls of color. She advocates for increased health resources and strives to engage Black youth into STEM careers.
With a strong personal connection to Charlotte, Moore-Wright values community engagement and inclusion. Her leadership extends beyond her corporate role, as she focuses on promoting diversity, equity, and career mobility within Truist and supporting small business growth in underserved communities.
Moore-Wright looks to leave a legacy centered on advocating for those who often lack a voice, and she remains committed to the continued growth of Truist and her involvement in community initiatives that foster education and entrepreneurship. n
Sonja P. Nichols PRESIDENT & OWNER SOUTHERN LION, LLC
BY LOÁN C. LAKE, PHOTO BY PAUL WILLIAMS III
To talk with Charlotte-Mecklenburg mover and shaker Sonja P. Nichols is to encounter a ball of energy that stays in motion. She is the head of a home and lifestyle collective that provides space for entrepreneurs to sell their products in the Charlotte metro and serves on the board of numerous nonprofit organizations in her community.
Though born in San Francisco, Nichols identifies as a ‘Southern Girl’ who was raised in Tallahassee Florida. She is the proprietor of Pineville-based Southern Lion, LLC, a bespoke home furnishings marketplace that she leads with her son, Richard Nichols III. Southern Lion provides 85,000 square feet of retail space on the Ground Floor to sell custom or luxury products and 50,000 square feet of retail space on the Top Floor to sell antiques, vintage and estate items.
Not one to back away from a challenge, the two-time Florida A&M University alumna is transforming the way home décor shoppers interact with their vendors. She’s loving every minute of it because of her unwavering faith in God and the lessons in leadership that she’s learned along the way.
At Southern Lion, Nichols turns up the southern hospitality to create a one-of-a-kind shopping experience for her patrons. “Some consider us the Neiman Marcus of multi-merchant marketplaces with specialty, curated booths for each unique vendor. Only God could create something this fabulous, bringing furniture, home décor, clothing, jewelry, and food under one roof,” Nichols said. “We’ve even created a Lion’s Den with four bigscreen televisions and leather recliners for the guests who would rather watch a game than shop for hours with their partner.”
Nichols was intentional about each detail of her customer experience, incorporating the warm welcome she remembers feeling at her uncle’s church, to ensure that visitors feel at home the moment they enter her doors.
Fueled by the leadership genes in her DNA, Nichols has served on the board of several organizations, including the Board of Governors for the University of North Carolina System, Good Friends Charlotte, the Women’s Impact Fund and founded the South Charlotte Chapter of Jack & Jill. She attributes her business acumen and work ethic to her grandparents who ran their own grocery and liquor store, and nightclubs.
Nichols also credits her involvement with various non-profit organizations with helping her to hone her leadership style and skills over the years. “I am one of the hardest workers when I serve as a leader. You’ve got to have somebody with the drive to move the organization along whether the volunteers want to do it with you or not because your name is attached to it. That’s why God allowed me to be the leader of so many organizations, because He gave me a lot of drive. I always want to see an organization succeed, so I ask myself, ‘how do I motivate this group of people to accomplish these different goals?’”
Nichols isn’t showing any signs of slowing down. With this mindset, and a winning formula to help small businesses grow, her future is exceptionally bright. n
James H. Sills III PRESIDENT & CEO
M&F BANK
BY KEVIN D. HEARD, PHOTO COURTESY OF M&F BANK
James H. Sills, III, has served as the President and CEO of M&F Bank and its parent company, M&F Bancorp, Inc., since 2014. He brings with him a wealth of banking and technology management experience, blending executive roles in largescale banking operations, community banks, and government organizations.
M&F Bank was founded on Black Wall Street, it now has locations in Raleigh, Durham, Charlotte, Winston Salem, and Greensboro. Under his leadership, M&F Bank, a publicly traded community bank founded in 1907, has expanded its regional footprint and grown to hold a half a billion dollars in total assets. Sills proudly states, “I’m standing on the shoulders of great men. We’ve had some great Presidents who have guided this institution over the last 117 years.”
Sills began his banking career in IT, initially drawn to the field of data processing after graduation. While the role was financially rewarding, it lacked the personal fulfillment he was looking for. Observing a commercial lender’s strong social connections with customers, Sills realized he wanted to make a tangible impact on people’s lives. This shift led him to the business side of banking, where he discovered the crucial role of lending in fostering community growth.
“What motivates me to do what I do,” says Sills, “ is that I know we’re making a difference to help reduce the wealth gap in our community by providing access to capital, so I approach my business efforts as a servant leader.”
Before his current role, Sills accumulated significant experience in both public and private sectors. He is recognized for his thought leadership and active participation in a range of national, regional, and local organizations. A committed advocate for higher education in the Black community, Sills has served on the Board of Visitors for both North Carolina A&T State University and North Carolina Central University.
Sills holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Morehouse College and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Pittsburgh. He is also a graduate of the University of Wisconsin Banking School. He is a strong supporter of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), many of which maintain depository relationships with M&F Bank.
Growing up in Wilmington, Delaware, Sills was inspired by his parents’ commitment to public service. His father, James H. Sills, Jr., was Wilmington’s first Black mayor, and his mother was active in local organizations like the NAACP and the YMCA. This legacy of service shaped Sills’ own approach to leadership.
As Sills stands tall in his role of active engagement, he acknowledges the value of his position with the community. “A lot of times when I’m asked to come to a school and speak with the students, the teacher will say ‘We want you to come because we want our students see a Black President and CEO, we don’t want you to send your lieutenant. We want them to see you.’”
Under his guidance, M&F Bank has grown significantly, as Sills reflects on his career, he is driven by the desire to leave M&F Bank stronger, healthier, and poised for even greater success in the future. His vision is to see the institution continue to thrive, serving as a vital resource for underserved communities for generations to come. n
Stephanie Sneed CHAIR
THE CHARLOTTE-MECKLENBURG
BOARD OF EDUCATION
BY DONALD JAMES, PHOTO BY PAUL WILLIAMS III
Stephanie Sneed is an attorney and dedicated public servant with a strong commitment to education and change. As Chair of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education, she leads the governing body for one of the nation’s largest school districts, ensuring that all students, regardless of background, have equitable access to quality education. CharlotteMecklenburg Schools (CMS) is the 16th largest district in the nation, serving over 141,000 students across 186 facilities. CMS is supported by more than 19,000 staff members and managed by a $2.1 billion budget.
During her current term, Sneed has been selected by her peers to serve as Vice Chair and now Chair of the board. She leads a nine-person board, with seven members, including herself, serving their first term. Despite these changes, the board has made meaningful progress, including successfully advocating for a $2.5 billion bond to build and remodel schools.
“It was crucial to have fresh perspectives that focus on student outcomes and closing educational gaps,” said Sneed, elected in November 2022 and named Chair in December 2023. “We need innovative approaches that support student success and ensure our teachers and staff are equipped to lead.”
Sneed is proud of the Student Outcomes Focused Governance Model CMS has adopted.
“Never before have we had goals ensuring that our students, after graduation, are on track to enroll in higher education, enlist in the armed services, or secure employment with livable wages. Most districts don’t set such specific goals for their students.”
In addition to her role with the board, Sneed is an Associate General Counsel with the U.S. Department of Defense, serving as a trial attorney for labor and employment legal matters.
Originally from Dallas, Texas, Sneed holds a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree with a concentration in environmental science from the University of Texas at Arlington. After working in that field, she earned a law degree from Howard University in 2004 and began a new career in public service. Sneed’s first role was as a trial lawyer for child protective services, advocating for children’s health, safety, and welfare. After relocating to Charlotte, Sneed became active in education advocacy, serving as Chair of the Charlotte Black Political Caucus and co-founding the Charlotte Community Think Tank.
A 25-plus-year member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Sneed has a longstanding dedication to community service. However, advancing education remains her passion.
“I’m passionate about what I do, and when I say the Board of Education is the most important body of government in Mecklenburg County, it’s because no large city can sustain, innovate, or grow without a strong talent pipeline cultivated by purpose-driven educators working at the top of their license,” Sneed emphasized. “What happens in our school system shapes future economies, cities, and overall quality of life.” n
Tracie DeWitt has worked in the mortgage industry for 25 years. As Director of Mortgage Credit Administration, she provides strategic oversight, input, and support in determining and maintaining Self-Help’s mortgage lending environment and coordinates communication and strategies with other essential teams at Self-Help. Since 2020, DeWitt has taken part in the strategic planning for Prosperity Unlimited, a local Community Development Corporation. DeWitt has been married to her husband Chad for almost 25 years and has 2 adult children, Tori and Riley. She enjoys planning and organizing and her hobbies include learning Chinese and all things Disney. Her favorite bible verse is Psalms 34:19. Her current favorite quote is “Some people want to see you fail. Disappoint them.”
With over twenty years of experience in the banking industry, Sonjinika Medlock has developed a deep understanding of financial services, customer relations, and strategic management. Throughout her career, she has held leadership roles overseeing key areas in bank operations, corporate merchant banking, and retail banking, driving operational excellence and ensuring compliance with evolving regulations. Her commitment to delivering exceptional service has been a hallmark of her career, fostering growth within the institutions she has worked with. As the first Black woman appointed as branch manager of a Navy Federal Credit Union in Italy, Medlock broke new ground in leadership and diversity. Currently, as the branch manager for Self-Help Credit Union in Salisbury, North Carolina, her dedication to community engagement and team leadership shapes the credit union’s culture and impact. After her husband’s passing, she navigated challenges with resilience, raising her children and using her personal and professional experiences to empower others.
Emerging Leaders are innovative, adaptable, and socially responsible. They leverage technology, prioritize sustainability, and inspire teams to drive growth and positive change in the business world. These leaders excel in encouraging diverse perspectives, and promoting continuous learning and development. By cultivating strong relationships and effective communication, Emerging Leaders build cohesive teams that are motivated to achieve common goals.
DeAnna Allen is a dynamic small business owner hailing from Columbus, Ohio, with a rich background in education and a passion for entrepreneurship. For the past 15 years, she has called Charlotte, North Carolina, her home and has made significant contributions to the local business community.
With nearly two decades of entrepreneurial experience under her belt, Allen has carved a niche for herself as the owner of The Brown Sugar Collab, a thriving business that celebrates and promotes diversity by intentionally purchasing products from BIPOC women suppliers. Through her business, Allen aims to create a space that empowers and uplifts other small BIPOC women owned businesses, while simultaneously fostering a sense of community among individuals of all backgrounds.
Allen’s entrepreneurial spirit extends beyond The Brown Sugar Collab, as she also serves as a co-owner of The Coterie Concept, a retail incubator space for creative professionals to connect, learn, and grow. This venture allows Allen to further nurture her passion for supporting fellow entrepreneurs and providing them with a platform to showcase their talents.
When she’s not busy running her businesses, Allen indulges in her love for travel, discovering new places, and immersing herself in different cultures. She finds inspiration in exploring the world and incorporating those experiences into her work. In her downtime, she enjoys watching thought-provoking documentaries that expand her knowledge and understanding of the world.
With her passion for education, her drive as an entrepreneur, and her commitment to community-building, Allen continues to make a significant impact in the business landscape. She serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly Black women, by demonstrating that with determination, creativity, and a commitment to one’s community, success is within reach.
Felicia Bittle is an award-winning personal stylist and certified image and style consultant dedicated to transforming wardrobes and empowering individuals through fashion. With over 20 years of expertise, Bittle offers personalized styling services ranging from wardrobe consultations and magazine features to TV contributions and speaking engagements. Her unique approach ensures her clients feel confident and comfortable no matter the setting.
Bittle’s work has been featured in notable publications such as Uptown Magazine, PINC Magazine, The Charlotte Observer, Diversity Professional Magazine, and others. She’s also a regular style contributor for The Charlotte Today Show and WCCB Charlotte. Currently, Bittle is leading the “Image Matters: Impression. Influence. Impact.” seminar series for Fortune 500 companies, universities, and nonprofits, which focuses on how image influences perception and creates opportunities.
Recently certified as SBE, MBE, and HUB, Bittle is committed to working with a broad range of businesses and organizations, further enhancing her credibility and reach. In addition to her professional accomplishments, Bittle gives back to her alma mater, NC A&T State University, through the establishment of the Sadie’s Baby Endowed Scholarship Fund, providing emergency support for students in need. She also serves on several boards and is a member of prestigious organizations such as The Crown Jewels Chapter of The Links, Inc., and The Charlotte Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Bittle’s achievements include being named one of the 25 Most Stylish in Charlotte, a recipient of the She Is Fancy ASATA Award, and recognition as one of the 22 Charlotte Fashion & Style Influencers to Meet.
By partnering with brands, facilitating speaking engagements, and contributing to podcasts, Bittle uses fashion as a form of empowerment. Her mission is to help individuals harness the transformative power of fashion to build confidence, selfexpression, and success.
Manuel Campbell is the Founder and CEO of ASPIRE Community Capital, a nonprofit organization committed to empowering entrepreneurs from underserved communities through business training, coaching, development and access to capital. He is responsible for organizational growth through securing and activating community partnerships, fundraising strategies, board development and program development. Campbell is also a leading local voice on diversity, race and inclusion in entrepreneurship and a community advocate for low-to-moderate income business owners through participation on panels and partnerships with a diverse range of for-profit and nonprofit organizations. He is often asked to share his perspective regarding the issues that challenge small businesses and the effects of these challenges on economic and social development. Campbell held the positions of senior risk manager, financial analyst and investment banking analyst for Bank of America Securities and Wachovia Corporation and is the founder of Anderson, Campbell and Associates, a consulting firm focused on assisting small business owners in accessing capital through private placement, SBA financing and private equity transactions.
Melissa Carnegie wears many hats. She’s best known for her lifestyle content where she covers everything from personal style to travel and her massive sneaker collection. In May of 2017 Carnegie gave birth to Kicks and Fros as a creative way to highlight black and brown women in the sneaker space. That social media page has now turned into a full-on business with a community of over 40 thousand women who have the same love or want to learn more about sneakers and the culture around it.
Carnegie is excited to not only help black and brown women find their sneaker style through inspiration, community and creative events, but also become a voice in a male dominated industry.
Chef Gregory Collier, a James Beard Award finalist, has long been a champion of locally-sourced food, working to ensure urban and rural farmers are supported in their efforts to make a living and provide quality products. He and his wife/business partner Subrina Collier lead BayHaven Restaurant Group, which is a representation of their collective life experiences and includes multiple concepts in Charlotte: Leah & Louise, one of Esquire Magazine’s best new restaurants; Uptown Yolk and the soon-to-open 3rd & Fernwood. BRG is also behind the BayHaven Food & Wine Festival, an annual celebration of Black foodways. BayHaven Restaurant Group is committed to highlighting Black culinarians and fostering business growth.
Founder Mad Miles Run Club
Cornell Jones is the visionary founder of Mad Miles Run Club, a vibrant community dedicated to promoting health, wellness, and unity through running. With a passion for storytelling and culture, he serves as a Feature Producer at ESPN’s Andscape, where he highlights diverse voices in sports and entertainment.
A proud graduate of Winston-Salem State University, Jones is deeply committed to uplifting his community. His efforts through Mad Miles not only encourage physical fitness but also foster connections among individuals from all walks of life. By creating an inclusive environment, he inspires runners to push their limits and support one another.
Recognized for his impactful work, Jones was named to Axios’ most powerful people in Charlotte list, a testament to his influence in the community. His leadership extends beyond the running trails. At Andscape, he amplifies stories that resonate with underrepresented communities, showcasing the richness of their experiences and emphasizing the importance of diversity in sports and media.
Through his dedication and vision, Jones continues to inspire and empower those around him, fostering a sense of purpose and community in both running and storytelling.
Myles McGregor, CEO and founder of Charlotte Immaculate, embodies determination and a commitment to community empowerment. He launched the company in 2021 with the goal of helping busy professionals and active families reclaim their time and enhance their quality of life by managing daily tasks that can become overwhelming.
Charlotte Immaculate Services is a premier luxury transportation and concierge company based in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Understanding the fast-paced demands of modern life, Myles designed the company to serve individuals and families seeking reliable services to streamline their routines. From dependable transportation to personalized concierge offerings, Charlotte Immaculate provides tailored solutions that elevate clients’ experiences.
McGregor’s entrepreneurial journey was inspired by his own challenges in achieving work-life balance. He recognized a gap in the market for high-quality, dependable services and focused on excellence and customer satisfaction to establish Charlotte Immaculate as a trusted partner in enhancing lifestyles.
Beyond his professional endeavors, McGregor is dedicated to giving back to his community. He believes that true success lies in uplifting others and actively supports local organizations while fostering collaborations that benefit residents throughout Charlotte. His commitment to community service reflects his belief that a thriving community enhances the well-being of all its members.
Dennis Reed is a dynamic force in the music and nonprofit world, blending his talents as an award-winning songwriter, recording artist, and CEO of Inspire the Fire Inc., a nonprofit that has empowered hundreds of youth in the Carolinas. His ability to inspire, motivate, and lead has made him a standout figure in the arts, mentoring countless young people while making waves on some of the world’s most prestigious stages.
A highly sought-after collaborator, Reed has worked alongside legendary music director Adam Blackstone, including a historic performance with Justin Timberlake at the Presidential Inauguration of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. Reed also led his group, Sainted Trap Choir, to the finals of America’s Got Talent: Fantasy League under the mentorship of Simon Cowell, where they captivated audiences with their unique sound.
Reed’s artistry took center stage at Super Bowl LVIII in Las Vegas, where he performed with Audra Day, further cementing his presence as a powerhouse performer and arranger. His talent also shone brightly at the TIME 100 Gala, where he orchestrated an unforgettable set for Fantasia.
Throughout his career, Reed has received numerous accolades, including winning the BMI John Lennon Songwriting Scholarship and being a finalist in the International Songwriting Competition. His group, Dennis Reed & GAP, has performed with acts like New Kids on the Block and the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra, and contributed to the GRAMMY® Award-winning project Oh Happy Day: An All-Star Musical Celebration.
Beyond the stage, Reed’s commitment to his community is unparalleled. His nonprofit, Inspire the Fire, earned national recognition as a finalist on America’s Got Talent and was honored with “Inspire the Fire Day” by the city of Charlotte. Reed’s leadership has led him to perform at the Democratic National Convention and multiple events for Oprah Winfrey, including a tribute to the life of Dr. Maya Angelou.
In 2020, Reed co-founded the Sainted Trap Choir with DJ Fannie Mae, blending gospel and trap music in a revolutionary way. Their golden buzzer-worthy performance of “Purple Rain” on America’s Got Talent has since garnered millions of views and global praise. With a career rooted in innovation, collaboration, and service, Dennis Reed continues to push the boundaries of music, education, and community impact. His work is a testament to the power of passion, creativity, and dedication, and the best is yet to come.
Winston Robinson, a native Charlottean and “Experience Invigorator,” has nearly twenty years of expertise in marketing and experiential programming. His dynamic career spans high profile events like Super Bowls, NASCAR races, NCAA tournaments, and hundreds of activations for Fortune 500 companies, as well as community-based events that foster connection and joy. Robinson has a special talent for creating ‘feel-good energy’ wherever he goes.
In 2017, Robinson and a group of friends transformed a simple social cookout into A Vibe Called Fresh, a festival aimed at connecting historically marginalized communities with the resources and tools needed for viable homeownership. The event, now a celebrated annual gathering, began as a response to Charlotte’s housing crisis, which Robinson witnessed firsthand as president of the Lockwood Neighborhood Association. During his tenure, Lockwood was identified as one of the fastest-gentrifying neighborhoods in the U.S., igniting Winston’s passion for addressing the displacement of long-term residents and countering systemic deprivation. Robinson’s upbringing in Charlotte’s Wilmore neighborhood during the 1980s exposed him to the lasting impact of community disinvestment. This shaped his commitment to understanding the broader societal forces at play, such as the policies of disenfranchisement that continue to affect Black communities. Influenced by readings like Ta-Nehisi Coates’ “The Case for Reparations” and Richard Rothstein’s “The Color of Law,” Robinson deepened his understanding of how homeownership, wealth, and systemic policies are intertwined.
In 2020, Robinson founded Applesauce Group, a nonprofit designed to scale and amplify the impact of festival programming. Applesauce Group’s events—like A Vibe Called Fresh, A Vibe Outside, Queen City Jam Clash, and The Great Westside Fish Fry— celebrate Black culture and creativity, while creating spaces where communities can step away from systemic pressures, connecting with resources, support and each other. The name, inspired by masking the taste of medicine with applesauce, reflects Robinson’s philosophy of delivering vital, often difficult information through joyous experiences.
Through Applesauce Group, Robinson continues his mission to uplift Charlotte’s long underserved communities through arts & culture, paving the way for empowerment and transformative change, while ensuring everyone has the time of their lives.
Cheryse Terry is a mother and native of Charlotte, with deep roots in the city’s rich culture. A multifaceted creative, she has spent over a decade collecting and dealing in vintage items, bringing her passion for history and storytelling to life. Today, she is a selftaught archivist and the founder and owner of Archive CLT, a café and community hub on Beatties Ford Road, dedicated to preserving Black history and culture.
Driven by her belief that we must be the change we wish to see, Terry raised $40,000 in just 40 days through grassroots fundraising to bring Archive CLT to fruition. Within five months of opening, Archive CLT was featured on the Today Show, a testament to its impact.
Additionally, her personal collection of art, ephemera, and furniture was showcased in the Mint Museum’s exhibition “The Vault.”
Beyond her work with Archive CLT, Terry serves on the CharlotteMecklenburg Workforce Development Board (Charlotte Works) and is a member of JCSU’s Friends of the Library. She was named a 2024 Emerging City Champion by the Knight Foundation for leading the “Digitizing the Community” initiative.
Cheryse’s life’s work is rooted in preservation, archives, and a deep love for Charlotte’s West Side, where she continues to advocate for and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the community.
At Bank of America, we value all our differences — in background, experience or viewpoints, including socioeconomic status, race, national origin, religion, age, gender, gender identification and expression, sexual orientation, ethnicity, disabilities, and veteran status. We’re stronger when we connect our diverse backgrounds and perspectives to better meet the needs of our teammates, clients and communities. We’re committed to investing in all communities, inclusive of Black/African American — by being a Great Place to Work for our employees, while supporting the needs of our clients and communities.
Senior Vice President
Global Retirement
Rhonda M. Bethea is the Senior Vice President of Global Retirement Plans at Bank of America, responsible for the strategic design and governance of retirement plans, including 401(k), pension, and deferred compensation, with assets exceeding $80 billion. She also leads the Global Human Resources (GHR) Corporate Transactions team, overseeing all HR aspects of mergers, acquisitions, and divestitures. Before her current role, Bethea served as General Auditor for Global Human Resources in the Audit Division, managing third-party risk management and incentive compensation audits. She also led the Global Compensation and Benefits team in the Legal Department, advising on executive compensation and regulatory compliance. Active in the community, Bethea advises the Bank of America Black Executive Leadership Council and has served on several nonprofit boards, including Teach For America Charlotte-Piedmont Triad. She holds a BBA from LMU and a JD from Georgetown University Law Center and resides in Charlotte, NC.
Patrick Carey is the Head of Consumer Credit. His team is responsible for delivering an exceptional lending experience to Retail, Preferred and Global Wealth Investment Management clients as they pursue their Home Loans, Consumer Card and Vehicle product needs. Since joining Bank of America in 2011, Carey has served in various leadership roles across the Consumer Lending businesses. Carey is a member of the company’s Global Diversity & Inclusion Council. He represents Bank of America on the Board of the Mortgage Bankers Association and serves on the Christos Ministries Board of Directors. In 2019 Carey was inducted into the Executive Leadership Council (ELC), an organization committed to advancing the role and contributions of Black executives and preparing the next generation of corporate leaders. Carey is also on the Robinson College Dean’s Board of Advisors at his alma mater, Georgia State University in Atlanta.
Head of Enterprise Services and CAO Business Management & Controls
Hendrick Ellis is the head of Global Enterprise Services at Bank of America, where he leads a team that provides essential employee and business services, including postal and print services, background screening, and food services. Additionally, he oversees Business Management & Controls for the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Group, focusing on workforce management, risk governance, quality assurance, and business continuity. As the Executive Sponsor for the Black Professional Group Employee Network and a member of the Global Diversity & Inclusion Council, Ellis is dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion for his teammates, clients, and communities. He also serves as the market sponsor for Columbia, South Carolina. Ellis is on the boards of The Market at 7th Street, United Way of Greater Charlotte, and Freedom School Partners. Based in Charlotte, he holds a bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of South Carolina and an MBA from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Senior Vice President, Portfolio Delivery Executive Bank of America Global Technology
Ijeoma Emeka is a Portfolio Management Executive for the Core Technology Infrastructure (CTI) organization within Global Technology where she is responsible for strategic portfolio and program execution that enables end-to-end technology infrastructure solutions across the bank. Ijeoma joined Bank of America in 2006. Emeka received Bank of America’s Global Diversity and Inclusion Award in 2017, 2021, and 2022. She currently leads 34K+ members of the Parents and Caregivers Employee Network globally as the Enterprise CoChair. She is a children’s language book co-author and animated series co-creator for Ije the World Traveler (YouTube). She is an active member of the community and serves on various Nonprofit boards. Emeka received her BS in Industrial Engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology and her MBA from Wake Forest University. She is also a Certified Six Sigma Black Belt. Emeka resides in Charlotte, NC with her husband (Ifeanyi) and three children (Somto, Obinna, Kene).
Tiffany Eubanks-Saunders is the Head of Diverse Segments for the Private Bank at Bank of America Corporation, leading initiatives to engage traditionally underserved client segments, including women, people of color, and the LGBTQ+ community. Previously, she was the Market Executive for the Tennessee Private Bank, overseeing substantial growth by targeting high-net-worth families and institutional clients across Tennessee and Kentucky. Before that, Eubanks-Saunders served as the Supplier Diversity and Development Executive, driving Bank of America’s commitment to spend $10 billion with diverse-owned businesses, earning a place in The Billion Dollar Roundtable for Supplier Diversity in 2014. Throughout her career at Bank of America, Eubanks-Saunders has held various leadership roles and participated in organizations like the Executive Leadership Council and the National Minority Supplier Development Council. She has received numerous accolades, including recognition as a Top Woman in Business by the Charlotte Business Journal and the UNCF Maya Angelou “Women Who Lead” award.
Vice President, Business Development Manager Corporate Social Responsibility
Brittany Hillman is the Business Development Manager for the Corporate Social Responsibility team, responsible for managing Community Affairs’ national nonprofit relationships. She plans and executes stakeholder engagements to build brand recognition, develop business opportunities, create connections for Local Market Office teammates, and promote volunteerism. Hillman coordinates event sponsorships supporting the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) with nonprofit affiliations and real estate organizations, and she leads strategic Faith-Based outreach in the communities served. As Co-Chair of the Charlotte chapter of the Black Professional Group (BPG), one of Bank of America’s Employee Network groups, she mentors with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Carolinas and is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Hillman is a 2023 Charlotte Business Journal 40 Under 40 honoree. She holds an MBA from Texas Woman’s University and lives in Charlotte, NC.
Senior Vice President; Market Executive Carolinas West Market
George Johnson is the Market Executive for the Carolinas West Market in Global Commercial Banking at Bank of America. He leads a team that delivers banking solutions and strategic advice to mid-sized companies with annual revenues between $50 million and $2 billion. Johnson is co-Chair of the Black Executive Leadership Council (BELC) in Charlotte and serves on various company Associate Engagement Committees. Johnson is from Montego Bay, Jamaica. He holds Bachelor of Business Administration and Master of Science degrees from Florida International University. He also holds Graduate Certificates in Data Science & Business Analytics and Financial Risk Management. He is FINRA Series 7, 63, and 24 licensed. He is the Vice-Chairperson of the Advisory Board for the Salvation Army of the Greater Carolinas and sits on the Board of the World Affairs Council of Charlotte. He is an alumnus of the BofA and Charlotte Regional Business Alliance Emerging Leader programs.
Leslie Johnson is the Head of Human Resources for The Private Bank at Bank of America, where she leads initiatives to cultivate a positive workplace culture and drive organizational success. Previously, she served as the Head of Diversity and Inclusion for Consumer Banking, Business Banking, Global Commercial Banking, Global Marketing, and Global Payment Services, championing efforts to create an inclusive environment both internally and with community partners. Beyond her corporate role, Johnson is deeply committed to community service. She serves as Chairperson of the Board of Directors for the Catawba Lands Conservancy and Carolina Thread Trail and is an active member of the Women’s Impact Fund and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to mentorship and the professional development of others, actively engaging in employee resource groups and inclusion councils to empower individuals and promote a culture of belonging.
Les Lambert is the Charlotte market executive for the and leads a team of client managers supporting the market. Lambert rejoined Bank of America in January 2018, after spending nine years with a regional bank in Atlanta. He started his banking career with Bank of America and, during his first eighteen years, held various roles including commercial banker, business banking manager for several Florida markets and the Atlanta market, business banking regional sales performance manager for the Central Region and regional treasury sales manager for the Southeast market. Lambert sits on the executive board of the CFO Leadership Council and the board of trustees at Queens University in Charlotte. He also works on Bank of America’s Black-Owned Business Initiative and serves as a co-executive sponsor of the Black Executive Leadership Team, Charlotte chapter. Lambert received a bachelor’s degree from Florida International University. He is married and has two daughters.
Will Manning is the Senior Vice President of Global Commercial Banking at Bank of America in Charlotte. He joined the bank in 2006 as a Program Manager in Global Wealth & Investment Management and later served as the Military Segment Sales Executive and Customer Experience Executive before moving to his current role in June 2013. In addition to his position, Manning is on the Board of the United Service Organization (USO) of NC, which provides support to troops and their families. He also leads the Military Affairs Advisory Council, advising the bank’s executive leadership team. A recognized speaker and mentor, he received Bank of America’s Global Diversity & Inclusion Award in 2012. Manning served as a Combat Engineer officer in the US Army, where he was an Airborne Ranger and Master Parachutist in the 82nd Airborne Division. He graduated from West Point with a degree in Mathematics and Electrical Engineering and lives
Milton Prime currently serves as CFO of staff support functions and Global Strategy & Enterprise Platforms at Bank of America. He is responsible for executing all core finance functions, including providing strategic guidance and performance insights to these areas, driving efficiency, and operating key control processes that ensure the integrity of the financial results. Milton also is market sponsor for Bank of America’s Nashville market, and is active in Employee Networks and mentorship programs. He is chair of the Board of Trustees of the Mint Museum and on the Board of Felicetti US. Milton holds two bachelor’s degrees in economics and accounting from Queens College and furthered education with an Executive Education program at Columbia University. He is a certified public accountant, internal auditor and risk professional. Milton resides in Charlotte, N.C., with his wife and son.
Soamoya Rankins is a division performance executive within Bank of America Private Bank, where she works with leaders to design and execute performance strategies to deliver a branded client experience for ultra-high net worth individuals and families. During her 21-year career at Bank of America, Rankins has worked across multiple lines of business, implementing optimization strategies, and delivering integrated solutions to customers and clients. Rankins is dedicated to the professional development of women, and a champion for diversity and inclusion. She manages the Global Ambassadors Virtual Mentoring Network and has served as president on the YWCA Central Carolinas board of directors, where she remains an active board member. Rankins was a Bank of America Spirit Medallion Recipient in 2007, a Bank of America Global Diversity & Inclusion Award winner (2013 and 2017), recipient of the David Brady Award (2018) and the Top Performer Award (2019-2023) within the Private Bank.
Senior Vice President, Strategy Leader
Kristerpher J. Smith is Senior Vice President, Strategy leader at Bank of America where he is responsible for market strategy, business integration and special projects. Smith is charged with growing market share while deepening relationships with sports partners and clients. He co-chairs BELC Charlotte (Black Executive Leadership Council) which is focused on responsible growth and development specifically aligned to the Black and African American community internal and external to the firm. Civically, he serves as Trustee for the CLT Alliance and a Board Member of the CLT Alliance Foundation. He also serves as Director for Kappa Alpha Psi’s Undergraduate Leadership Institute that supports leadership and career development for diverse college men. In addition, he is a Founding Member of the Dean’s Executive Advisory board for the College of Business and Professional Studies at Johnson C. Smith University.
Wyatt Smith is the Head of Global Commercial Banking’s New Economy team, focusing on Emerging Healthcare, Emerging Technology, and the Green Economy. He leads a team that helps innovative businesses achieve their ambitious goals. Committed to cultivating diverse talent, Smith has served as the Enterprise Co-Chair of Bank of America’s Black Professionals Group and currently chairs the Global Commercial Banking Diversity and Inclusion Council, advancing the bank’s goal of creating a welcoming environment for all employees. With nearly 30 years at Bank of America, Smith has held roles in Syndicated and Leveraged Finance, Consumer and Retail, and Global Commercial Banking. Born in Greensboro, NC, to parents who attended North Carolina HBCUs, he actively volunteers with local youth organizations, including Big Brothers Big Sisters and Junior Achievement. Smith earned a BA from Duke University and an MBA from Southern Methodist University.
Chief Risk Officer
Global Commercial Banking
Rose Thomas-Stoddard is the Chief Risk Officer for Global Commercial Banking, responsible for providing a comprehensive view of all risk types across the business. She has held various positions in human resources, lending, audit, and risk management at FleetBoston and Bank of America, covering both domestic and international portfolios. Thomas-Stoddard is active in several affinity groups within BofA, notably the Black Executive Leadership Council, which mentors and supports the advancement of talent, and the Jewish Heritage Chapter, where she serves as a partnership pillar colead. Additionally, she sits on the Board of DreamKey Partners, an affordable housing nonprofit developer. A dog lover, Thomas-Stoddard supports organizations such as Best Friends Animal Society and Beyond Fences. She graduated magna cum laude from the University of Pittsburgh, earning a master’s degree in Educational Research Methodology and a bachelor’s degree in Movement Therapy.
Managing Director, Wealth Management & Philanthropic Market
Ashley D. Varnado is a managing director, philanthropic market executive at Bank of America Private Bank. In this role, Varnado leads a national team responsible for $9B in philanthropic assets across ten markets including Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, Rhode Island, South Carolina, and Tennessee. Deeply rooted in philanthropic missions within the Charlotte community, Varnado’s affiliations have included Good Friends-Charlotte, Women’s Impact Fund, Muggsy Bogues Family Foundation (Board of Directors, 2021-2022), Young Black Leadership Alliance (Board of Directors), Jackson State University’s Development Foundation (Board of Directors), St. Jude Leadership Society, and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Her industry recognition include being named Charlotte Business Journal’s “40 under 40” (2020), President’s Volunteer Service Award (2021), Bank of America’s Diversity & Inclusion Award (2022), and she was recently highlighted in Pride Magazine as one of Bank of America’s “Women Creating Change” (2023). She resides in Charlotte with her husband and two sons.
Chief Operating Officer and Planning, Controls & Governance, Global Information Security
Takiesha Waites-Thierry is the Chief Operating Officer and Planning, Controls & Governance Executive for the Global Information Security (GIS) organization at Bank of America. She leads the bank’s cybersecurity strategy, financial management, workforce strategy, sector partnerships, and cyber risk management. With over 20 years of experience in intelligence and security, she joined Bank of America in 2018, focusing on strategic and tactical intelligence related to physical security, operational preparedness, and cyber response operations. Waites-Thierry is also committed to diversity and inclusion, serving on the Black Executive Leadership Council (BELC) and co-sponsoring the Black Professional Group Virtual Chapter and the Military Support and Assistance Group (MSAG) in Charlotte. Additionally, she is an Executive Partner for the Master of Business for Veterans program at USC’s Marshall School of Business. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and Criminology from the University of Maryland, and an MBA and a Master of Cybersecurity Risk and Strategy from USC and NYU.
BY DONALD JAMES SENIOR NATIONAL WRITER
In
the broad spectrum of American education, Historically Black Colleges and Universities, collectively called HBCUs, have stood the test of time as mighty pillars of empowerment and resilience in their challenging quests to educate African Americans.
Before the start of the Civil War in 1861, most Southern states had established anti-literacy laws prohibiting enslaved Black people from learning to read or write. Defiance of such laws was met with grave consequences. Even in some so-called free Northern states, providing literacy skills to educate Black people was highly discouraged, especially if it meant integrating with White students.
Attitudes toward educating Negroes/Colored/ Black people began to shift somewhat – mainly in the North – when in 1837, Cheyney University of Pennsylvania became the nation’s first HBCU. The school was initially called the African Institute and renamed the Institute for Colored Youth before becoming Cheyney University of Pennsylvania. In its inception, Cheyney taught Black students trade and agricultural skills.
Three other HBCUs were established before the Civil War: the University of the District of Columbia (1851), Lincoln University in Pennsylvania (1854), and Wilberforce University in Wilberforce, Ohio (1856).
Wilberforce was the first HBCU “owned and operated” by African Americans, and Lincoln was the first “degree-granting” Black Institution. In 1865, Shaw University in Raleigh, North Carolina, was established as the first HBCU in the South.
Following the passage of the Morrill Act of 1890, sponsored by U.S. Senator Justin Morrill of Vermont, doors opened for the proliferation of HBCUs under a land-grant system. The Act mandated that Black people have access to educational opportunities, mainly in the agricultural and mechanical sciences, but at learning institutions explicitly created for African Americans. Black schools under the land-grant education system included, but were not limited to, Alabama A&M University, Alcorn State University, Tuskegee University, Fort Valley State University, the University of Arkansas Pine Bluff, Southern University, and Virginia State University. Overall, 19 land-grant Black institutions operated under the Morrill Act of 1890.
Nevertheless, according to the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, most HBCUs were founded between 1865 and 1900. Many of the storied Black institutions underwent name changes, including The Lincoln Normal School of Marion (Alabama State University), The Howard School (Fayetteville State University), Augusta Institute (Morehouse College), Centenary Biblical Institute (Morgan State University), The Theological and Normal Institute (Howard University), The Atlanta Baptist Female Seminary (Spelman College), Swayne School (Talladega College), The State Normal College for Colored Students (Florida A&M University), Agricultural and Mechanical College for the Colored Race (North Carolina A&T State University), and Freedmen’s College of North Carolina (Johnson C. Smith University).
“They started in church basements, they started in old schoolhouses, they started in people’s homes,” said Marybeth Gasman, an HBCU historian, who co-authored the book HBCU, The Power of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. “As former slaves, they were hungry for learning because, of course, education had been kept from them.”
During the Jim Crow Era - 1870 to 1964 - laws were implemented in the South to oppress Black people by enforcing racial segregation across broad sectors, including education. While there were accounts of African Americans attending Predominantly White Institutions (PWIs) during the Jim Crow Era, such occurrences were rare exceptions, far from the rule. For most African Americans during the period of enforced segregation, HBCUs represented the only avenues to higher learning.
PREVIOUS PAGE: Portrait of university students and faculty members posing outside North Carolina University’s Music and Arts Department during an event. (North Carolina Central University via Getty Images)
According to the U.S. Department of Education, there are currently 107 HBCUs in 20 states. The four states with the most are Alabama, North Carolina, Georgia, and Texas. The District of Columbia has two HBCUs, and the U.S. Virgin Islands has one. In 2023, there were roughly 338,700 students enrolled in HBCUs.
The Department of Education, citing the Higher Education Act of 1965, offers the following definition of Historically Black Colleges and Universities: Any Black college or university established “before 1964,” whose principal mission was, and is, to educate Black Americans. While HBCUs represent about four percent of all colleges and universities in the United States, they produce close to 22% of all Black graduates. HBCUs are also the main pipeline for granting undergraduate degrees to Black students in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math).
In a 2023 White House report prepared by the Biden-Harris Administration, statistical breakdowns show that HBCUs produce 40% of Black engineers, 50% of Black teachers, 70% of Black doctors and dentists, and 80% of Black judges. HBCU alums can be found in every career and industry in America, including on Boards of Directors of Fortune 500 companies. The storied United Negro College Fund (UNCF) estimates that HBCUs generate more than 134,090 jobs annually while accounting for an almost $15 billion impact on the nation’s economy.
“I wish that people, regardless of race, knew just how much of an impact Black colleges have had on building the Black middle class and pushing social and socio-economic mobility,” Gasman told the Grio in a national story. “We have considerable empirical evidence showing that HBCUs outperform majority institutions in moving people up the economic ladder.”
Politically speaking, hundreds of HBCU graduates have been elected or appointed to local, regional, county, state, and federal government/ political positions. Kamala Harris (Howard University), the 49th and current vice president of the United States, is the first woman and first Black American to hold the high office. The first Black U.S. Supreme Court Justice, Thurgood Marshall, earned an undergraduate degree from Lincoln University in Pennsylvania. He later received his Juris Doctor (JD) Degree from Howard University’s Law School.
On the civil and human rights front, HBCUs have produced iconic advocates, such as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (Morehouse College), John Lewis (Fisk University), Rev. Jesse Jackson (North Carolina A&T University), Stokely Carmichael/Kwame Ture (Howard University), Andrew J. Young (Howard University), and Fred Shuttlesworth (Selma University and Alabama State University).
The list is long with actors, actresses, and film producers from HBCUs, including sisters Phylicia Rashad and Debbie Allen (Howard University), billionaire media mogul Oprah Winfrey (Tennessee State University), former broadcast journalist Ed Bradley (Cheyney), Taraji P. Henson (Howard University), Will Packer (Florida A&M University), Spike Lee (Morehouse College), and news and sportscaster Michael Strahan (Texas Southern University).
In sports, 35 HBCU graduates are in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, including Jerry Rice (Mississippi Valley State University) and Walter Payton (Jackson State University). According to NCAA stats, more than 351 HBCU players have been drafted by NBA teams, ten of which are in The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, including Willis Reed (Grambling State), Earl “The Pearl” Monroe (Winston-Salem State University), and Ben Wallace (Virginia Union University). The WNBA has drafted seven female players from HBCUs, the first of which was Denique Graves from Howard University in 1997.
“As a proud graduate of Howard University, I know firsthand that our HBCUs are centers of academic excellence,” said Vice President Kamala Harris.
“As we look to the future, we remain resolute in our mission to uphold the legacy of Barber-Scotia College and its profound impact on generations past, present, and future,” said Dr. Chris V. Rey, president of Barber-Scotia College and the 36th International president of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.
“HBCUs still serve as an important place because they were uniquely created for the African American community to experience an opportunity to see excellence in people who reflect who you are in your culture,” said Dr. Helene D. Gayle, president of Spelman College.
Musically, dozens of recording artists from HBCUs are currently enjoying national and international acclaim, including Yolanda Adams (Texas Southern), Roberta Flack (Howard University), 2 Chainz (Alabama State and Virginia State Universities), Lionel Richie (Tuskegee), Megan Thee Stallion (Texas Southern University), and Common and K. Michelle (Florida A&M University).
In the realm of publishing, HBCUs have produced Black Enterprise Magazine founder and publisher Earl G. Graves, Sr. (Morgan State University) and Who’s Who in Black’s Chief Operating Officer Dr. Carter Womack (Alabama A&M University). Authors from HBCUs have included Toni Morrison (Howard University) and Alice Walker (Spelman College).
When spotlighting the many Black experiences at HBCUs, it’s impossible to gloss over the legendary schools’ “mighty marching bands” and their electrifying brands of music, dancing, and overall showmanship.
Tuskegee Normal School (Tuskegee University) is believed to have assembled the first Black college marching band in 1890. Yet, in 1946, Black college bands evolved from militaristic marching and playing to adopt a more exciting and entertaining style, thanks to the creative imagination of the late Dr. William P. Foster, the long-time band director of Florida A&M’s World-Famous Marching 100.
Today, there are at least 40 active HBCU marching bands with their unique flair and sound, including Jackson State University’s Sonic Boom of the South, Howard University’s Showtime Marching Band, Southern University’s Human Jukebox Marching Band, Tennessee State University’s Aristocrat of Bands, Bethune-Cookman University’s Marching Wildcats, and the Albany State University Marching Rams Show Band.
In addition to the marching bands, nine historic Black Greek sororities and fraternities – called “The Divine Nine” – have ascended to lofty places in HBCU history and folklore with the common goal of empowering Black communities in America and beyond. Many of the “Nine” had their beginnings at Howard University, including three sororities: Alpha Kappa Alpha (1908), Delta Sigma Theta (1913), and Zeta Phi Beta (1920). The two fraternities established at Howard are Omega Psi Phi (1911) and Phi Beta Sigma (1914). Iota Phi Theta Fraternity was founded at Morgan State University in Baltimore (1963). Two prominent Black fraternities and one sorority were established at Predominately White Institutions: Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity at Cornell University (1906), Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity at Indiana University (1911), and Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority at Butler University (1922).
Since the rise of HBCUs 187 years ago, there have been covert and overt efforts by various lawmakers to merge public HBCUs with PWIs or, in some instances, close the Black institutions of higher learning permanently. According to National Public Radio (NPR), the U.S. Department of Education, and other credible sources, 16 states have underfunded their HBCUs for decades to a collective tune of more than $12 billion. The Department of Education reports that Tennessee lawmakers have shortchanged Tennessee State University by a staggering $2.1 billion.
“Unacceptable,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona in a fall 2023 press release. “Funding inequities have forced many of our nation’s distinguished Historically Black Colleges and Universities to operate with inadequate resources and delay critical investments in everything from campus infrastructure to research and development to student support services.”
Despite legacy statuses, numerous HBCUs, including St. Augustine’s University in Raleigh, North Carolina, Knoxville College in Knoxville, Tennessee, and Barber-Scotia College in Concord, North Carolina, face serious financial and/or accreditation problems,
“As we look to the future, we remain resolute in our mission to uphold the legacy of Barber-Scotia College and its profound impact on generations past, present, and future,” said Dr. Chris V. Rey, president of Barber-Scotia College and the 36th International president of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. “Together, we will continue to champion the values of education, equality, equity, and empowerment, ensuring that our institution remains a beacon of hope and opportunity for all.”
While many HBCUs have been triumphant in the face of constant opposition and barriers, some lawmakers question the relevancy of Black institutions of higher learning in today’s world of education. After all, those who question the relevancy of HBCUs often point to the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which became the law of the land, prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin at public facilities, including schools. In essence, the doors for African Americans to attend Predominately White Institutions were opened. Yet, with clear pathways for Black students to attend PWIs, many continued to choose Black schools in their pursuit of undergraduate and graduate degrees.
“HBCUs still serve as an important place because they were uniquely created for the African American community to experience an opportunity to see excellence in people who reflect who you are in your culture,” said Dr. Helene D. Gayle, president of Spelman College. “We have professors, many of whom are African Americans so that students can see themselves reflected in the people who teach them and provide services to them.”
It should be noted that following the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in June 2023, which ended race-conscious admissions to PWIs, some – but not all - HBCUs are seeing an increase in enrollment of Black students. Interestingly, White students have also appeared on HBCU’s admission radars, even before the High Court’s ruling last year. Eleven percent of students currently enrolled at HBCUs - undergraduate and graduate programs - are White, followed by a smaller percentage of Hispanics and other non-Black ethnicities. West Virginia State University’s White population at the HBCU is 72%, with less than 10% Black. Bluefield State University in West Virginia has a White student population of about 80%, with 14 percent identifying as Black.
Since taking office in January 2021, The Biden-Harris Administration has been committed to championing the growth and sustainability of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. In May 2024, the White House released a
statement touting the Biden-Harris Administration’s funding and investments in HBCUs totaling more than $16 billion from Fiscal Year 2021 through Fiscal Year 2024.
“As a proud graduate of Howard University, I know firsthand that our HBCUs are centers of academic excellence,” said Vice President Kamala Harris. This historic investment is transformative – from helping to fund cutting-edge research and making long-overdue renovations to providing mental health resources and ensuring students have access to every opportunity to thrive. And as we look forward, we know that our HBCUs will continue to prepare young leaders to build a better, more just future for our country and the world. That is why President Biden and I have delivered an unprecedented $16 billion to our Nation’s HBCUs,”
On the philanthropic side of funding, “large monetary gifts” for the nation’s colleges and universities have been presented primarily to White institutions by ultra-wealthy White donors, while HBCUs are often at the lower tiers of receiving. The large sums of money donated to PWIs add credence to the old adage, “The rich keeps getting richer.”
However, after the May 2020 murder of George Floyd, the philanthropic landscape of giving large donations shifted. Netflix CEO Reed Hastings and his wife, Patty Quillin, donated $120 million to be equally divided between Morehouse College, Spelman College, and UNCF. Bloomberg Philanthropic entities gave $100 million to four historically Black medical
schools: Meharry, Howard, Morehouse, and Charles R. Drew.
Mackenzie Scott, the former wife of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, gave $560 million to 23 HBCUs, which included Prairie View A&M University in Texas.
“There’s a long history in this country with minority institutions being underfunded, being thought of as not competing with White institutions, and therefore not receiving adequate funding to do the work that we do,”
Dr. Ruth Simmons, president of Prairie View A&M said in a statement. “Mackenzie Scott’s philanthropic gifts have been epic. She has broken what had become a troubling pattern in education giving – of the rich getting ever richer - a perennial trend that reinforces racial inequities.”
For HBCUs to survive and thrive, more financial resources are needed to elevate and sustain undergraduate and graduate programs.
“Funding is the key,” said Dr. Quinton T. Ross, president of Alabama State University, who sits on the Board of Advisors of the White House Initiative on Advancing HBCUs. “Compared to our counterparts in higher education, HBCUs have been and are still under-resourced. We call on the federal government, our corporate partners, and philanthropic organizations to look at what these institutions are doing and consider how they can contribute on a local, state, and national level to keep HBCUs thriving.” n
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Rooted in legacy and tradition, Johnson C. Smith University endeavors to provide a multicultural and transformative experience, which educates, prepares and graduates a diverse group of talented and highly motivated students who can communicate effectively, think critically and learn independently as well as collaboratively. Further, JCSU cultivates an inclusive environment in which students are equipped to be global citizens who develop a compelling sense of social and civic responsibility for leadership and service.
Director of Athletics and Visiting Associate Professor
Dr. Hendricks, a veteran collegiate athletics administrator, is currently the Director of Athletics and Visiting Associate Professor at Johnson C. Smith University. A 2000 graduate of the University of South Carolina, Dr. Hendricks earned both a master’s and doctorate from Auburn University in 2001 and 2004 respectively. In 2007, Dr. Hendricks graduated from the NCAA Leadership Institute for Ethnic Minority Females. Dr. Hendricks has received numerous awards, including 2020 Distinguished Toastmasters Award, the 2012 Auburn University Young Alumni Achievement Award, and the 2007 CIAA Senior Woman Administrator of the Year. Currently serving as the 31st Chair of the International Board of Directors for Zeta Phi Beta, Sorority, Incorporated, Dr. Hendricks is also a member of Order of Eastern Star, The Links, Incorporated, Women Leaders in Sport and several other professional and civic organizations. Dr. Hendricks also serves as the Chair of the Carolina Christian College Board of Trustees.
Director and Associate Professor, MSW Program
Dr. Melvin Herring is the Director and Associate Professor of the MSW Program at Johnson C. Smith University, focusing on cultural inclusion and DEI research. He has led multimillion-dollar projects and serves as a Community Research Advisor while actively participating in the HBCU Health Equity Consortium, Violence Prevention Data Collaborative, and the Partnership for Social and Economic Mobility project. Recognized for his contributions to cultural competence, Dr. Herring co-authored the book “Human Behavior Theory” and “Social Work Practice with Marginalized Oppressed Populations” (Routledge 2019). He also co-developed a cultural competence theoretical model that informs his practice and teaching, training numerous students and organizations. Dr. Herring is frequently sought after for cultural competence education and has presented at various local, state, and national conferences, including the South Carolina National Association of Social Workers Conference and The Action Council for Cross Cultural Mental Health and Human Services.
Chief Strategist for Accreditation, Data Analytics and Transformation Initiatives
Dr. Harriet Hobbs is the Chief Strategist for Accreditation, Data Analytics, and Transformation Initiatives at Johnson C. Smith University, bringing over 20 years of experience in higher education. Her expertise includes strategic planning, assessment, accreditation, and institutional effectiveness. Previously, Dr. Hobbs held roles such as Vice President of Institutional Planning, Assessment, Effectiveness, and Research at Clinton College and Director of Assessment Systems and University Accreditation at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She also served as the Director of Institutional Effectiveness and Planning at Bladen Community College. Dr. Hobbs earned her Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus on Urban Education from UNC-Charlotte. She has authored multiple articles and book chapters and presented at over 40 conferences. Her research interests include academic resilience, the success of African American males in higher education, culturally responsive assessment, and equitable assessment practices.
Dr. Cathy W. Jones holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Barber-Scotia College, a Master of Education in Counseling from UNC-Charlotte, and a Ph.D. in Leadership for Higher Education from Capella University. Currently, she serves as the Dean of Students at Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte, North Carolina, where she advocates for students’ educational, cultural, and social development. Dr. Jones manages the student judicial system, overseeing the Student Conduct Coordinator and implementing policies related to student rights and responsibilities. She has participated in various committees, including the Academic and Student Success Management Team and the Strategic Planning Steering Committee. Her contributions have been recognized with several awards, including the Sarah Stewart Administrative Award and the Moses S. Belton Distinguished Service Award. Additionally, she is a member of the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.
Director of University Bands & Assistant Professor of Music
Dr. Tomisha Price-Brock is an accomplished educator and the Director of University Bands and Assistant Professor of Music at Johnson C. Smith University. She has led instrumental and vocal ensembles in Virginia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Mississippi, Washington, and Nevada. A native of Carrollton, Virginia, Dr. Brock earned her Bachelor of Music Education from Virginia State University in 2005 and a Master of Music Education from Norfolk State University in 2011. She has also completed coursework at Capella University, Southern Utah University, and the University of Illinois-Chicago, culminating in her Ph.D. in Music Education from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in 2020. Dr. Brock is the Immediate Past President of the HBCU National Band and Orchestra Directors’ Consortium and the Founder/Executive Director of Prodigious Music Concepts, LLC. Additionally, she is a Charter Member of the Association of Black Women Band Directors and serves on several boards, including El Sistema USA.
Vice President of Operational Excellence & Chief Operating Officer
Dr. Rochelle L. Woods is a career higher education professional, currently serving as Vice President for Operational Excellence and Chief Operating Officer at Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte, North Carolina, where she oversees Human Resources, Facilities, Campus Police and Information Technology units. She has previously led college access, retention and student success programs, as well as academic initiatives and administrative operations at University of Pittsburgh, Ohio State University and University of Michigan. Dr. Woods is also an Executive Negotiation Strategist and founder of Negotiation Solutions. She has coached and trained over 2,000 higher education professionals across the country, working with them one-on-one and in workshops and seminars. She received certificates from Harvard’s Negotiation Master Class, the Executive Negotiation Workshop at University of Pennsylvania and received an Executive Certificate in Public Policy from The Kennedy School at Harvard University. Dr. Woods holds a BA in Sociology from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and MA and PhD degrees in Sociology from University of Michigan.
The “Who’s Who 1,000 Books for 1,000 Kids” campaign aims to empower children across the Charlotte area by providing Who’s In Who Black publications to elementary, middle, and high school students.
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The Most Influential section honors the top executives, prominent religious leaders, politicians and government officials, distinguished doctors, and accomplished attorneys who are making significant impacts in their respective fields. From boardrooms to courtrooms, from medical centers to places of worship, these influential figures are driving progress, shaping policies, and uplifting communities.
President | The National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc., Queen City Metropolitan Chapter
Bella-Giavanni Austin serves as the President of The National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc., Queen City Metropolitan Chapter. Since joining the chapter in 2017, she has held various leadership roles, including Financial Secretary, Economic Empowerment Chair, and First Vice President. A dedicated wife, bonus mom, project manager and licensed realtor in North Carolina, Austin plays a pivotal role in advancing the chapter’s mission to advocate for Black women and girls, focusing on gender equity in health, education, and economic empowerment. Under her leadership, the organization actively drives policy change to ensure equality for Black women and girls. Austin’s passion for advocacy is demonstrated through initiatives like voter registration, financial literacy workshops, HBCU Fairs, STEAM summits, and Black Maternal Health Fairs. Her leadership continues to strengthen the chapter’s impact in Charlotte, helping to create a more just and equitable society.a steadfast commitment to service and extensive leadership experience, Anderson continues to drive progress, embodying the principle of being the change.
Enovia Bedford leverages her entrepreneurial vision to thrive in startup and early-stage environments, driving profitable growth by connecting clients with industry-leading companies, partners, and sponsors. With a diverse background in marketing, social media branding, and experiential activations, she has made significant contributions across various industries. Originally from New York, Enovia moved to North Carolina in 2015, where she became the Marketing Director for a restaurant group and co-founded BLKTECHCLT, the first community for Black entrepreneurs and technologists in Charlotte. Currently, she serves as the founder of VettDeck, a crowdsourced lead generation platform for the sponsorship and event industry, as well as, a full-service marketing agency. VettDeck provides insights for multicultural markets, helping clients make impactful sponsorship decisions. Bedford has also led creative marketing initiatives across experiential, print, digital, and social media platforms, cultivating partnerships with industry leaders like Keurig, Jim Beam, and Airbnb.
Glenn H. Burkins is the founder and publisher of Qcitymetro, a digital platform launched in 2008 that provides news and information relevant to Black communities in the Charlotte region. Burkins previously was business editor and later deputy managing editor for news at The Charlotte Observer. He has been a reporter at newspapers including The Wall Street Journal, Philadelphia Inquirer, St. Petersburg (Fla.) Times and Los Angeles Times. At The Wall Street Journal, he covered the Labor Department and the Clinton White House. As Africa bureau chief for the Philadelphia Inquirer, he covered the historic election of Nelson Mandela in South Africa, the 1994 genocide in Rwanda, and one of the early outbreaks of Ebola in the former Zaire (now known as the Democratic Republic of Congo). Burkins holds a journalism degree from the University of South Carolina. QCityMetro now produces some phenomenal events such as the Great 28, Women Thrive Entrepreneurship Conference, Black Trivia Night, and the Lowcountry Culture Festival.
Dr. Malcolm B. Butler is Professor and Dean of the Cato College of Education at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Butler was born in Lafayette, Louisiana. He spent his childhood in south Louisiana with his eight siblings and loving mother, Adlean F. Butler, and father, the late Lee Butler, Jr. Butler earned a BS in physics from Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He also completed an MEd and PhD in curriculum and instruction (Science Education) at the University of Florida. Butler has taught and learned mathematics, science and life from elementary, middle, and high school students, and college students. In addition, he has been affiliated with several institutions of higher education, including the College of William and Mary, Texas and A&M-Corpus Christi, the University of Georgia, the University of South Florida, and the University of Central Florida.
LaShaun K. Carter is the Chief Equity and Inclusion Officer for Mecklenburg County, Charlotte, NC, where he leads efforts to advance a countywide equity framework by improving internal policies and systems. He oversees the Office of Equity and Inclusion and drives community partnerships, policy development, training, and accountability for better outcomes. Previously, Carter was the Assistant Executive Director/Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer for Franklin County Children Services, Columbus, OH, where he created a department to analyze data for improving service delivery. His efforts transformed the agency’s approach to data and community impact. Carter regularly consults with corporations, human service organizations, and educators nationwide to promote equity and social justice. His work in Columbus led to collaborations on social justice strategies across the country. LaShaun lives in Charlotte, NC, with his wife Cheree and their two children, LaDaia (8) and Kross (4).
Malcomb Coley, with over 31 years at EY, is the US Central Region Private Leader and a key member of EY’s leadership team. He serves on the Global Governance Council, Americas Advisory Council, and US Partner Principal Council. Coley’s leadership extends to various boards, including the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance, United Way of Central Carolinas, Charlotte Sports Foundation, and the Endowment Board for UNC Wilmington. In 2021, he was appointed to the NC Railroad Board of Directors by Governor Roy Cooper. Recognized as a driving force for economic growth and diversity, Coley was named CEO of the Year by his peers. He is also the founder of Brighthope Capital, an investment firm focused on supporting Black-owned businesses. His contributions continue to shape Charlotte’s business landscape. Outside of work, Malcomb enjoys running, exercising, and golfing with his family.
Dr. Keith Cradle is the Juvenile Services Liaison for Healthy Blue NC/BCBS and responsible for working with judges, law enforcement agencies and key court influencers around the state to build relationships and identity opportunities to drive systems change. Previously, Dr. Cradle was the Director of Youth/Juvenile Services for the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office. He also is the leader of a widely-acclaimed youth mentoring program, Camping with Cradle, which has been featured on national news including the Kelly Clarkson Show. He also authored a book ‘Cut the Check,’ a guide for nonprofit donor engagement. He is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Mary C. Curtis is an award-winning journalist, podcast host, personality, and educator based in Charlotte and Washington. She writes columns for Roll Call and hosts its “Equal Time” podcast, talks politics and culture on Charlotte NPR-affiliate WFAE, and has worked at The New York Times and Charlotte Observer. Curtis is Senior Facilitator with The OpEd Project, and was a Nieman Fellow at Harvard. She was chosen for The HistoryMakers, the world’s largest collection celebrating African American communities’ successes, archived in Library of Congress, and has been honored by Association for Women in Communications, Society of Professional Journalists, National Association of Black Journalists and the 2022 Ernie Pyle Lifetime Achievement Award from National Society of Newspaper Columnists. Curtis has contributed to several books, including “We Refuse to Be Silent: Women’s Voices on Justice for Black Men,” “Covering Politics in the Age of Trump,” and “Love Her, Love Her Not: The Hillary Paradox.”
Aisha O. Dew is a prominent political strategist who has played a crucial role in securing victories for candidates in over 70 races across North Carolina, including the landmark election of Vi Lyles as Charlotte’s mayor. Her extensive experience includes serving as the first vice chair of the North Carolina Democratic Party, chair of the Mecklenburg County Democratic Party, and state director for Bernie Sanders during the 2016 campaign. Dew has also facilitated political training for organizations such as Democracy for America, the Truman National Security Project, the Congressional Black Caucus Institute, and Emily’s List. As the political director for Higher Heights for America, she develops and implements strategies to recruit, train, and support Black women candidates. Dew is actively engaged in organizing Higher Heights’ growing membership at local, state, and national levels. She holds a degree in arts administration from Salem College and is recognized for her contributions to political leadership in North Carolina.
Dee Dixon is a seasoned advertising and communications professional and a successful entrepreneur. As the President and CEO of Pride Communications, Dixon has built Pride Magazine into an important voice for the Charlotte community. In addition, Dixon founded the non-profit PEEP, Pride Educational Empowerment Program. She was the visionary behind several of Charlotte’s major events including the Pride Sunset Jazz Festival, Pride Awards Gala and the Charlotte Small Business Symposium. Dixon was named Charlotte Businesswoman of the Year in 2006. She is the immediate past chair of Charlotte Museum of History board and the first African American to hold this position. She is co-founder of the Women’s Inter-Cultural Exchange (WIE), Pride Public Relations, and received the Long Leaf Pine Award in 2009. Dee received a certification in Diversity and Intercultural Management from Wake Forest University, Charlotte-Center City and the District 37 Toastmasters Communication and Leadership Award.
Monifa Drayton is the Executive Director of the Mecklenburg Democratic Party, with over 20 years of experience in coalition building, strategic planning, and equity-driven leadership. Within her first two months, she reactivated the Mecklenburg Hispanic Caucus and implemented strategies to engage minority communities. A member of the inaugural cohort of the Congressman James E. Clyburn Leadership Institute, Drayton has a 100% success rate as a campaign manager for elected officials in Mecklenburg County. With 22 years of experience as a healthcare executive, she now leads the Drayton Leadership Group, LLC, focusing on leadership development and executive coaching. In 2023, Drayton became the first Black woman to chair the Mecklenburg County ABC Board, managing a $300 million budget that supports over 30 nonprofits. She holds a master’s in public administration from UNC Charlotte and a bachelor’s from South Carolina State University. Drayton enjoys global travel, live music, and spending time with her nephews.
George Dunlap is a notable political leader from Mecklenburg County, North Carolina. He is currently in his 16th year on the Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners and is serving his sixth term as Chairman. Dunlap is a lifelong public servant, and he serves in various roles on the local and national level in service to his community. He is the 2nd Vice President for the National Association of Counties, serving on the Board of Directors of North Carolina Association of County Commissioners, and was appointed by the Governor to serve as a Commissioner on the NC Sheriffs Education and Training Standards Commission. George is a member of the board of directors for numerous organizations. Previously, George served 13 years as a member of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Board of Education, and he is a Fellow of the NC Institute of Political Leadership. Dunlap received his MPA and BS from UNC-Charlotte.
Ruby Durham is an entrepreneur, transitional leader and mentor. Durham is a singer, songwriter and owns a women’s clothing line. As a mentor, Durham helps students learn on-camera and behind-the-camera skills that will help them gain confidence, leadership and tools that will translate into life skills. Prior to entrepreneurship, Durham held the title of Miss North Carolina for America 2022 and was an Emmy-nominated On-Camera TV News Journalist. Durham earned her bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism at Coastal Carolina University. As a student-athlete in college, Durham ran Division 1 Track and Field for four years. She recently launched a podcast highlighting North Carolina woman leaders.
LaToya S. Evans is a strategic communications executive who has served as a senior crisis communications strategist and spokesperson for some of the world’s most notable brands including Walmart, Bank of America, IBM, Philips, and Compass Group. Evans founded the international PR firm the LEPR Agency where she leads media and marketing initiatives for high-profile businesses and individuals. Specializing in both crisis communications and strategic media relations, Evans has also been a communications leader on U.S. presidential campaigns for both Andrew Yang and Mike Bloomberg while also serving as the public relations agency of record for the family of George Floyd and the respective George Floyd Memorial Foundation and also consulted on the BidenHarris 2020 presidential campaign for paid and earned media. The LEPR Agency has also represented for public relations mega Pastor John Gray and Relentless Church, Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles and more.
At Novant Health, Arlene Ferebee leads, launches, and accelerates strategies for the Health Insurance Marketplace, Medicare Advantage, and new health plan collaborations which enable patient access, affordability, and transparency. Fueled by her personal passion for health equity, mental health, and the arts, she advocates across numerous organizations to engage and uplift underrepresented communities. Ferebee’s vast community service includes Southern Area Chair, The Arts Facet, The Links, Incorporated; Opera Carolina Board (past chair); Women’s Impact Fund (past board member); Greater Charlotte Chapter The Society, Incorporated Supporting the Arts charter member; Musical Dramatic Arts Foundation founding member; New Generation African American Philanthropists Charlotte; Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated Life Member; and certified Mental Health First Aid instructor. She was honored nationally with the 2022 OPERA America Trustee Recognition Award, received Opera Carolina’s 2021 Helen & Stewart P. Scott Philanthropy Award, and was named 50 Most Influential Women in 2020 by The Mecklenburg Times.
Malcolm Graham is a dedicated public servant, businessman, and advocate for civic engagement, race relations, and affordable housing. A Charleston native, he moved to Charlotte in 1981 to attend Johnson C. Smith University on a tennis scholarship. Over his 30-year career, Graham has worked to make Charlotte a better place for all, with roles in the North Carolina State Senate, Charlotte City Council, and as President & CEO of the Carolinas Minority Supplier Development Councils. He has also held leadership positions at Bank of America and Time Warner Cable, supporting minority- and women-owned businesses. Graham spearheaded the revitalization of Charlotte’s Historic West End, a $70 million project that included housing and public art, while securing $75 million for the Lynx Gold Line extension. After losing his sister Cynthia in the Emanuel AME church tragedy, he co-founded the Cynthia Graham Hurd Center for Literacy & Civic Engagement. Currently, Malcolm serves on the Charlotte City Council, focusing on economic development and community-first policies.
Judge Tyyawdi Hands assumed office in 2009 and has continued to serve Mecklenburg County after being appointed to the bench by NC’s governor at just 35. She earned her JD from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a bachelor’s degree from Winston Salem State. Judge Hands serves often as the School of Government Domestic Violence trainer to North Carolina’s new judges, magistrates, prosecutors and clerks. She also regularly trains and facilitates race equity, implicit bias and vicarious trauma training. Prior to becoming a district court judge, Hands served as an assistant professor of law and also served as a partner at Hands Law Office, PLLC and Baker and Blake, LLP. A native of Las Vegas, Judge Hands is also a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc and is a charter member of the Omega Iota Omega chapter.
Trish Harris, Chief of Staff/Senior Director of Education, Operations & Initiatives at UNC Chapel Hill is a champion for social justice. Harris also serves as the chair of the Carolina Black Caucus, the oldest affinity group for Black faculty and staff at Carolina. A self-proclaimed “troublemaker”, Harris has been committed to equity, college access, and improving outcomes for people of color. She has a track record of effectively closing achievement and attainment gaps for minority students both nationally and globally. Harris owns an educational consulting company that specializes in helping firstgeneration students and families from rural areas navigate through the college admission process. She has earned numerous accolades for her work, including the 2023 Nikole Hannah-Jones Award for Advocacy and Perseverance in Education presented by the Color of Change. She is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
Dr. Boris Henderson is a Charlotte native who currently serves on the management team of a senior living community where he primarily focuses on community engagement, philanthropy and real estate. Previously, Dr. Henderson was the Vice President of Commercial Real Estate Development at DreamKey. Dr. Henderson has also held various real estate and underwriting roles at Wells Fargo, over a 13-year period. Dr. Henderson is a graduate of Davidson College, and he obtained a master’s in business administration from Wake Forest University. Recently, he graduated from the James Walker Hood Theological Seminary with a community advocacy and social justice (Salisbury, NC) focus. Dr. Henderson remains deeply involved within the Charlotte community. He currently serves as a Board Director for the Crosland Foundation, Habitat for Humanity International and the Brenda H. Tapia Foundation. In 2017, Dr. Henderson was recognized as an Outstanding Emerging Philanthropist by the Association of Fundraising Professionals.
Crystal L. Hill, Ed.D., is superintendent of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, the 16th largest public school system in the United States and the 2nd largest in North Carolina. She is responsible for 141,000 students enrolled in 186 schools under the leadership and support of nearly 20,000 employees. Since her appointment in 2023, she has led the district in improving academic outcomes for students while implementing a comprehensive organizational restructuring to ensure endless possibilities for all students. She also led the district’s successful, historic $2.5 billion bond campaign, which is the largest in North Carolina history. She began her 27-year career as a first-grade teacher and has served in multiple instructional and executive roles in school districts throughout North Carolina. Dr. Hill earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in instructional technology, both from North Carolina A&T State University and a doctorate in educational leadership from Gardner-Webb University.
Joan Higginbotham is an electrical engineer, rocket scientist, and retired astronaut, who spent 13 phenomenal days in space. After a storied 35-year career with the federal government and Fortune 500 companies in the aerospace, energy and retail sectors, she opened her aerospace consulting firm, Joan Higginbotham Ad Astra, LLC, serving as President and CEO. Passionate about giving back, she serves as an Astronaut Scholarship Foundation Trustee, National Aeronautics Association Board Member, and Space Telescope Institute Council Advisor. Higginbotham is also a member of the Crown Jewel Links, the Charlotte Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, and the BOW Collective, an organization of the top 1% Black Women Entrepreneurs. Her accolades include the World Who’s Who of Women, the NASA Exceptional Service Medal and an appearance in Alicia Key’s Superwoman video. Higginbotham is also featured in the Claiming Space exhibit at the National Museum of African American History and Culture in DC.
Radio/TV Host, Fly Ty and Jacinda Media LLC
Owner/Operator, Christian Jacobs Salon Suites & Art Gallery
Derrick “Fly Ty” Jacobs is a national radio, television and event host. He is a veteran in Charlotte Radio and started back in 1995. He currently hosts his own show, the FlyTy and Jacinda show every Sunday morning on V1019. His passion for radio took him to Dallas, Texas working on the #1 stations K104 and KNRB 105.7. Five years later he returned home to Charlotte to work with My92.7 and 105.3. In 2014, Jacobs joined Charlotte’s NBA franchise, The Charlotte Hornets, as the in-game Host. Jacobs, alongside his wife Jacinda, own their own media company. He is very involved in community work. His passion for helping others by feeding and empowering the homeless with a program he and his wife started “Give Blessing Bags.” Jacobs and Jacinda launched Stolen Lunches, which is a nonprofit organization with a mission to inspire others through faith.
Mecklenburg Board of County Commissions, District 4
Mark Jerrell serves as vice chair of the Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners representing District 4, which comprises the eastern part of Mecklenburg County. He was first elected as commissioner in 2018 and is serving his in his third term on the BOCC. Jerrell currently serves on the Inter-Governmental Relations Committee (Chair), Economic Development, Environmental Stewardship and Health and Human Services committees. He is committed to building bridges, breaking down barriers, and ensuring that resources are accessible for our most vulnerable residents to experience a high quality of life. He is passionate about issues of equity, education, affordable housing, access to social services, social and environmental justice, parks, and open space, and ensuring that we have relevant programming for all residents. Jerrell is an entrepreneur and proud veteran, having served in the United States Army Reserves. He also holds a bachelor’s degree in political science as well as an MBA.
Marcus D. Jones serves as the city manager for Charlotte, overseeing the city’s daily operations under the council-manager form of government. He is responsible for managing a $3.2 billion budget and overseeing 20 departments, including community safety, economic development, public transit, and the Charlotte airport (CLT). Jones is a respected leader in local, regional, and national government affairs, actively engaging in Charlotte’s business, arts, philanthropic, and faith-based communities. He serves on several boards, including the Leading on Opportunity Task Force, Charlotte Center City Partners, and the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance. With over 25 years of public service, Jones’ collaborative and innovative approach has fostered sustainable programs that promote upward mobility, job growth, and improved community safety. He holds a bachelor’s degree from James Madison University and a master’s in public administration from Virginia Commonwealth University.
Joseph Machicote has over 30 years of experience working in the fields of human resources, organizational development and diversity and inclusion. He has held multiple senior leadership roles throughout his career. Prior to joining Premier Inc., where he serves as Chief Diversity and Inclusion officer, Machicote was the SVP, Chief Human Resources and Chief Diversity Officer for Erickson Senior Living; VP of HR and Organizational Development and Chief Diversity Officer at Snyder’s-Lance; and chief diversity officer, VP of Relations Development at Compass Group. Machicote is a community service leader and has chaired several community boards following his passion for health and wellbeing, education, diversity, equity and inclusion and the advancement of under-privileged and at-risk individuals. In July 2024, Machicote will serve as the Board President of Mental Health America of the Central Carolinas and follow his passion for bringing equitable mental health and wellness services to more communities.
Charlotte City Council At-Large
LaWana Mayfield is a dedicated community organizer and leader. She completed a program at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government. Professionally, she has served as a Mecklenburg County project coordinator, focusing on immigration reform, community organizing, and eliminating for-profit prisons. In civic engagement, Mayfield has held positions on the board of the NASCAR Hall of Fame, Smart Start of Mecklenburg County and was the first female president of the Centralina Economic Development Commission. She has also contributed significantly to the National League of Cities. Mayfield’s key achievements include leading the development of the Charlotte Premium Outlets, organizing job fairs, and improving infrastructure in District 3. Her platform prioritizes economic growth, community safety, and stabilizing property values. She has received numerous awards, including the 2016 PowerHouse Project Power of One Award and the 2017 National League of Cities LGBTQ+LO Outstanding Local Leadership Award.
Charlotte City Council At-Large
Charlotte Native James “Smuggie” Mitchell, Jr. graduated from West Charlotte Senior High School and received his Computer Science degree from North Carolina Central University. Also, Mitchell is a graduate of Harvard Kennedy School of Government. Mitchell is married to former NASA astronaut Joan Higginbotham and is father of two Blessings Kayla and Nicole Mitchell. Mitchell is a member of CN Jenkins Presbyterian Church, and is a Silver Lifetime member of the NAACP, Lifetime member of North Carolina Central Alumni Association. Currently he is serving as a member of the Board of Trustees for North Carolina Central University. He pledged Tau Psi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity and is a member of the Pi Phi Graduate Chapter. On the National level he has served as President of the National League of Cities, and National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials (NBC-LEO). On the state level he served as President of North Carolina Black Elected Municipal Officials (NCBEMO).
Judge Rhonda Patterson is a leader in North Carolina’s legal community, founding the premier African American, female-owned firm Patterson Law Office over a decade ago before becoming a District Court Judge. With a focus on family law, Judge Patterson earned the nickname ‘Queen of Custody’ by her late mentor, notable attorney Billie Ellerbe. Additionally, the mother of two is known nationwide as an expert in co-parenting and has also held roles at law firms including Offit Kurman, KL Gates LLP and Alston and Bird LLP. A celebrated member of the community, Judge Patterson was also named the Woman of the Year by the Mecklenburg Times as part of their prestigious 50 Most Influential Women recognition. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Rashaan Peek is the Chief of Staff at Charlotte Center City Partners, where she drives the economic, social, and cultural development of Charlotte’s Center City. With extensive experience in managing multi-million-dollar budgets, developing non-profit boards, and enhancing employee morale, Peek excels in executive office management and strategic collaborations. She is dedicated to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within the organization. Peek holds certifications in Nonprofit Management from Duke University, Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace from USF Muma School of Business, and Supply Chain Management from the Women’s Business Center of Charlotte. She is also a graduate of YCombinator Startup School and UNC Charlotte Ventureprise. Before joining CCCP, Peek founded Your Girl Inc., an executive management firm, and served as a Consultant Project Director for BlkTech Charlotte/BlkTech Interactive. Recognized as the 2019 Mentor of the Year by ACHI Magazine, Rashaan enjoys traveling, audiobooks, family time, and brunch with friends.
| The Oh Show LLC
A Brooklyn native, Ohavia Phillips is living the dream in all things sports, media and entertainment. Phillips is an electrifying emcee, in-arena host for The Charlotte Hornets, award-winning business owner, merchandise queen and social media ball of ENERGY. Phillips graduated with honors from Walden University, where she earned a master’s degree in crisis communication and public relations. She has carved out a strong niche for herself in the crowded media landscape by projecting herself as a distinct and refreshing voice. That voice has opened doors with incredible organizations and on billboards from North Carolina to Times Square! Phillips has been featured with many brands, businesses and radio stations highlighting her stellar career over the years. Power 98, V101.9, 103.3 Praise 100.9, and NPR (to name a few) are among these radio stations. Phillips has also been featured in numerous international and local magazines because of her enormous talents and demonstration.
Hon. Chris V. Rey, International President of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., was born in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, and raised in Spring Lake, North Carolina. He earned academic honors and was an All-American in track & field at East Carolina University, where he attended on a full athletic scholarship. In 2000, Rey enlisted in the U.S. Army, later becoming a commissioned officer in the Signal Corps. He served in Iraq and Afghanistan, earning honors like the Bronze Star and Meritorious Service Medal. In 2011, Rey became the youngest mayor of Spring Lake, serving three terms. Initiated into Phi Beta Sigma in 1996, he has held numerous leadership roles, including International Director of Social Action and International First Vice President. In 2021, he was elected International President. Professionally, Rey leads Capitol C2 Global Strategies and is a professor, while continuing to serve in the National Guard.
Adjunct Professor | Johnson C. Smith University
Tonya Rivens, an award-winning Journalist with more than 35 years in the media (radio, television, print), orks as an Adjunct Professor at Johnson C. Smith University. She received the 2023 National Association of Black Journalists Angelo B. Henderson Community Service Award and is a North Carolina Equity Fellow. She has a BA in journalism from UNCChapel Hill and an MS in communications, specializing in Journalism Innovation, from Syracuse University. As a radio veteran, she has held the positions of Program Director, Music Director and Community Affairs Director and includes stints at WPEG, WBAV, WPZS & Streetz (WGIV). Her show, Sounds of Inspiration, is currently featured on Praise 100.9. She has a syndicated feature, TTIME, and she does freelance for Jupiter Entertainment.
April Simpkins is a mental health advocate, serving as an ambassador for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and a board member for NAMI Piedmont Tri-County, where she serves her local community. She has earned a Mental Health First Aid Certification and is also trained in Emotional CPR. As a C-suite executive, Simpkins is an in-demand public speaker who has addressed audiences internationally on the topics of leadership, culture, DEI, and mental health in the workplace. She has received numerous awards for her business acumen and community service. Simpkins is the wife of David, the mother of six incredible children, and the grandmother of one beautiful granddaughter.
The Honorable Keith Smith has served as a district court judge since 2023. Formerly a senior associate attorney for Mecklenburg County for eighteen years, his prior legal experience included working as assistant district attorney in Rowan County for nearly four years. Judge Smith conducted CPS investigations for ten years and worked in corrections for six years. Smith has taught at Catawba College since 2001 and was the first full time African American professor. He has also taught at UNC-Charlotte, JCSU and Shaw. Judge Smith has a JD from NCCU, MS from UNC-Charlotte, and BS from UNCChapel Hill. He is a board member of the McCrorey YMCA, Char-Meck PAL, and Sigmas of Charlotte Foundation. He is the former chair of the Char-Meck WDYC and served on the Human Services Board. A former Mayor’s Mentoring Alliance Mentor of the Year, he is a member of 100 BMOC, Unique Lodge, and life member of Phi Beta Sigma.
Krista Terrell is a strategic, ethical and accredited public relations practitioner with over 25 years of experience. She is CEO of Krista Faye Public Relations, a consultancy that helps clients solve problems through the lens of public relations. She chairs content and communications for The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Remembrance Project, a national movement by the Equal Justice Initiative (EJI) to tell the truth about racial terror lynchings in America and to memoralize EJI’s two documented lynching victims in Mecklenburg County. Terrell is on the Board of Ethics and Professional Standards for the Public Relations Society of America. She is also a member of the Charlotte Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Charlotte Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., and the New Generation of African American Philanthropists. She is an alumna of Johnson C. Smith University and is married to Gerald Terrell, Jr. They have two sons.
Terri L. White is the president and CEO of the Charlotte Museum of History located on Shamrock Drive in East Charlotte. In addition to award-winning programs and nationally classed exhibits, the museum cares for five historic buildings including the oldest home in Mecklenburg County and the historic Siloam School. Under White’s leadership, the museum has pivoted into an inclusive, people first approach to engaging the public with history and has seen substantial improvement in its fiscal health and operations. A graduate of Howard University with graduate degrees from George Mason University, University of Pittsburgh, and University of Louisville, Terri is pushing both the museum and the city of Charlotte forward with innovative and strategic partnerships that marry history, the arts, and business. She is an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, a sustaining member of the Junior League of Charlotte, and a life member of Tau Beta Sigma.
Dr. Shante Williams is a distinguished venture capitalist, business owner, inventor, intellectual property strategist, and private investor. She currently serves as general director of Opera Carolina, where she became the first woman and person of color to lead the largest professional opera company in the Carolinas. Additionally, she is global CEO of Black Pearl Global Investments, an assets management firm focused on reducing health disparities across the globe. Dr. Williams serves the community as chairman emeritus of the board of directors for the Charlotte Mecklenburg Black Chamber of Commerce. She has received numerous awards for her business and entrepreneurship efforts, and her thought leadership is frequently published in national and international media outlets. Dr. Williams earned a bachelor’s degree from Winston-Salem State University and a Master of Business Administration from Queen’s University of Charlotte. She holds a doctorate in integrated biomedical science, specializing in neuro-oncology and pharmacology from Ohio State University.
Braxton Winston II was born in Camp Lejeune, N.C., where his father was stationed in the U.S. Marine Corps. As the child of a Marine and a school teacher, the values of education, public service, and a strong work ethic were ingrained in Winston at an early age. After graduating from Phillips Academy Andover and Davidson College, he became a union stagehand and a member of our region’s robust sports television and entertainment production community. Winston served as a Charlotte City Council At-Large member from 2017-2023 and served as Mayor Pro Tem. Winston learned during his tenure that communities thrive when their workforces thrive. As the next Commissioner of Labor, he will support North Carolina’s working families and businesses by ensuring that all workers go to work in a safe environment, advocating for all people to be paid fairly under NC labor laws, and defending workers rights wherever they find work.
Charlotte’s Cultural Footprint:
A history of depth and beauty that continues to surprise
By Mary C. Curtis
“Arts are not just for the privileged.”
Charlotte is sometimes thought of as a cultural waystation between Washington, D.C., and Atlanta – but not to anyone who has been paying attention. The Queen City is actually a major player, with a rich history and exciting current cultural scene, known for its diversity and shaped in essential ways by the contributions of African American creators.
Whether it’s the visual arts, theater, dance or music – from classical to contemporary to jazz – Charlotte can claim a colorful and unique cultural scene.
Bonita Buford, president and CEO of the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African American Arts + Culture, knows she is carrying on a legacy, one started 50 years ago by pioneers with a vision. Dr. Bertha Maxwell-Roddey, an associate professor at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, and Dr. Mary Harper, then an assistant professor of English there, co-founded what became the Afro-American Cultural Center, with support from UNCC President Bonnie E. Cone.
“The beauty of the Gantt Center is that it is really here for everyone,” said Buford, named, when David Taylor retired, to preside over the Gantt Golden Year and lead the organization into the future.
Founding Mothers Drs. Roddy and Harper. Courtesy of Harvey B. Gantt Center for African American Arts + Culture.
©Tyrus Ortega Photography.
“We’re a brave space -- unapologetically Black — and also a safe space for those who are curious about African American culture, arts and foodways.” Though Buford’s background is engineering, culture has always been close to her heart. Charlotte’s constant growth in that area has kept her here nearly 25 years, focused on her belief that “arts are not just for the privileged.”
It is fitting that the center is named for someone who is a central part of history, a community leader, businessman and trailblazer, who was Charlotte’s first Black mayor, and the first African American
student admitted to Clemson University. The center moved into its uptown home in 2009, with a design by African American architect Phil Freelon’s Freelon Group that visually tells the story of Charlotte’s once-thriving, now demolished Brooklyn neighborhood.
Visual artists certainly have always gotten their due, with exhibits honoring Charlotte-born Romare Bearden, “the nation’s foremost collagist,” as The New York Times described him, and the who’s who featured in the signature John and Vivian Hewitt Collection of African American Art – including Elizabeth Catlett, Henry Ossawa Tanner and yes, Bearden.
But a multidisciplinary approach that expands the definition of art offered at a museum has always been on the menu at the Gantt. It offers films, performing arts programs, dance workshops, concerts and educational programs. A state-of-the-art studio and innovation lab provide equipment and mentorship. Then there is the community outreach that is a hallmark of all of Charlotte’s cultural attractions. At the Gantt, that includes partnerships with youth programs and nonprofits that can lead to internships.
When Tom Gabbard, president and CEO of Blumenthal Arts, began to tackle the job of leading what is now one of the nation’s largest not-for-profit arts organizations 21 years ago, he learned that the Alvin Ailey Dance Theater had not played the Charlotte market for decades. He promptly fixed that oversight, bringing the renowned company to the city and setting it up to return every other year.
“I think it’s wonderful that this orchestra that serves the diverse communities of Charlotte, Mecklenburg and beyond should be one of the first U.S. orchestras to take a pioneering step like this,” Ryan said
“Creating programming that connect with an audience and looks like Charlotte has been a really important priority,” he said. That has been a throughline, woven through the organization’s expansive mission. Blumenthal Arts not only presents the largest Broadway season in the Carolinas, it
Ayisha McMillan Cravotta, looks on as students train in ballet class at Charlotte Ballet’s Center for Dance studios in Uptown. Photo by Lily Herrin, courtesy of Charlotte Ballet Company.
also shapes it with its investments in Broadway plays and musicals that have gone on to win Tony Awards. Programs provide specially priced, free and subsidized tickets, ensuring access; internships and The Blumey Awards, which celebrate excellence in high school musical theater, nurtures diverse new generations of future stars. It means “providing opportunity to our talented kids in Charlotte,” Gabbard said, “who have the talent, who need us to open a few doors.”
Its four stages and a performing canvas that extends far beyond present many opportunities to showcase African American talent. Blumenthal Arts also partners with other groups in the community, said Gabbard, which “allows them to take our marketing muscle and shine an even brighter light on the work that they are doing.”
Shows that Blumenthal Arts have been instrumental in developing that then come to Charlotte before subsequent tours have included a new production of Charles Fuller’s Pulitzer Prize-winning “A Soldier’s Play,” set on an Army Base in the World War II-era segregated South.
Diversity is also a hallmark of Blumenthal Arts events that represent the world, from the Charlotte International Arts Festival to the international hip-hop festival.
When the play “Immediate Family,” written by Paul Oakley Stovall and directed by Phylicia Rashad, is presented by Blumenthal Arts in a full Equity production in 2025, Charlotte will join Chicago and Los Angeles as one of the few stops before – it is hoped – a Broadway run.
Rashad is excited, Gabbard said, and offered her own take of the city’s art scene: “Charlotte is the new Atlanta!”
From star dancer to mentor and inspiration Ayisha McMillan Cravotta once danced such signature roles as Clara in “The Nutcracker,” Tinker Bell in the Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux version of “Peter Pan” and Butterfly in George Balanchine’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” inspiring young would-be dancers, as well as the diverse Charlotte audiences that attended performances of Charlotte Ballet.
“In my opinion, Charlotte has a vibrant arts scene that is becoming more and more cosmopolitan every day,” Diamond saidWho'sWhoInBlack
To see an African American ballerina, in tutu and tights, in an art form not historically associated with Black dancers was a treat and a win for excellence and representation.
Throughout its history, the company, previously known as North Carolina Dance Theatre, has showcased dancers with different and complementary gifts. Cravotta said all three of the artistic directors she has worked with “have been dedicated, curious and willing to put in the work to support Black dancers in this company.”
Now, in her role as academy director of Charlotte Ballet Academy, Cravotta is, as she said, “meeting an ever-growing and evolving challenge in our industry,” ensuring that a pipeline of excellence and diversity flourishes.
“I’m so grateful for my time as an artistic executive, overseeing management of the academy artistically and administratively,” and, she said, of “the work that we do to cultivate the next generation of artists.” The staff, which also includes instructors and associate directors, provides quality instruction, whether students “just wish to have enjoyment and joy that comes from dance training or to do it professionally.”
In five centers run by Charlotte Ballet in partnership with the county park and recreation department, space is available for ballet, jazz and African traditional form. Scholarships are offered for young dancers eager to move on to the academy.
“We build on history and we have to keep learning,” said Cravotta, who learned from generations, including a mother and grandmother who championed children and education.
“Somebody’s got to help carry that torch the way it was carried for me.”
One article hardly does justice to Charlotte’s cultural footprint, past present and future. Charlotte Symphony is welcoming its first Black conductor, Kwamé Ryan, beginning in the 2024-25 season. He told the Charlotte Observer: “I think it’s wonderful that this orchestra that serves the diverse communities of Charlotte, Mecklenburg and beyond should be one of the first U.S. orchestras to take a pioneering step like this.”
Here for it all is a Charlotte couple who have seen the expansion of the city’s cultural footprint.
Patrick and Judy Diamond have lived in the city for 30-plus years, and in that time have gone from observers to collectors – of art and experiences. His self-published “The Incredible Joy of Collecting African American Art: My Journey from Frogtown, S.C. to the National Gallery” shares that “magic carpet ride,” as Patrick put it. “We had to pinch ourselves,” he said, when galleries across the country requested loans of their pieces for exhibits.
Diamond, the one-time development director of the Gantt Center, helped raise funds for the new building, including from individuals and companies that were first-time donors.
“In my opinion, Charlotte has a vibrant arts scene that is becoming more and more cosmopolitan every day,” he said, with an ability to surprise. He was delighted to discover the Visual and Performing Arts Center (VAPA) uptown, with artist studios and performing and exhibition space. And it is not alone.
Patrick Diamond’s advice to newcomers: Put on a comfortable pair of walking shoes and explore uptown and other creative spots in the city.
And don’t forget to learn about the pioneers who paved the way.
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Personality Portraits features biographies and photographs of local African American professionals, highlighting their diverse achievements and contributions across various fields. This section celebrates their successes, honors their professional excellence, and provides inspiration and representation, showcasing the rich talent and leadership within the community.
Carli Abram is the founder and CEO of Pollynation Apothecary, a beauty and wellness brand established in 2016. After struggling with health issues like hair loss and skin problems, doctors advised her to rely on lifelong medication. Instead, Abram applied her background in herbalism and chemical engineering to create holistic solutions. Pollynation Apothecary focuses on wellness for individuals with sensitive skin, offering safer, more accessible alternatives to prescriptions. Endorsed by doctors, the brand has expanded from the Charlotte Regional Farmers Market to retailers such as Earth Fare and Wegmans, and by April 2022, its products were available in 22 Mom’s Organic Market locations. Pollynation holds several certifications, including Certified CrueltyFree, Women-Owned Small Business, Minority Business Enterprise, and Historically Underutilized Business. The brand’s mission is to help individuals “bloom into wellness.”
Yasmine Aljuwani is an Assistant Vice President in Wealth Investment Management Operations at Wells Fargo, where she focuses on process improvement, eliminating inefficiencies, and fostering streamlined operations. In addition, she founded Spotlight Image Consulting, offering photography, business etiquette coaching, social media management, and image consulting services to elevate brand presence. A graduate of Fayetteville State University and pledgee of The Delta Alpha chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, Aljuwani is pursuing a Master of Arts in Psychology, with plans to obtain a Doctorate in Social Psychology. As a single parent of two, Aljuwani balances her thriving career with a deep commitment to family and social impact.
Cayme Andrea is a coach dedicated to supporting postpartum moms who navigate the balance between caring for their families and themselves. With personal experience in this journey, she understands the unique challenges these women face. Andrea works with confident, passionate go-getters who feel that something is off in their lives. She specializes in helping moms find equilibrium through internal healing, boundary setting, and achieving peace. Her clients often seek harmony in their careers, relationships, family life, and health or want to prioritize their own needs. With over 17 years of experience, Andrea holds titles such as life coach, executive coach, and leadership mentor, focusing on holistic wellness by aligning mind, body, and spirit. As an internationally credentialed integrative life coach and NLP practitioner, she is committed to helping her clients create lasting change and attain emotional and financial freedom.
Arkevious Armstrong is trusted as a mentor and community leader due to his extensive experience and the positive impact of his organization, Step Up To Leadership. Over the past decade, he has been actively involved in mentoring young men in various settings, including schools, detention centers, and county jails. This hands-on experience demonstrates his commitment to making a difference in the lives of youth. Furthermore, the organization’s focus on equipping young individuals with the tools to overcome their circumstances and improve their cognitive-behavioral patterns is a critical aspect of their success. The practical training they provide in areas such as self-value, conflict resolution, character building, leadership skills, and drug awareness through real-life situations contributes to transformative personal growth.
Karena Atkinson, an alumna of the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, is a Spoken Word Artist, Poet, and Speaker known as Rena Speaks. Under this name, she has created a brand focused on empowering voices and challenging perspectives, while also expanding into activism and youth mentoring. She is also a Creative Director through Media and Marketing, and the CEO of K For The Culture Productions, LLC. Her company has released one short film, two successful podcasts, and several creative concept photography projects. Atkinson is also an A&R, Broadcast Journalist, and Artist Development Lead for BoomSound - a music marketing label. She holds a BA in music business. In 2018, she was honored as a community trailblazer. She is also a community engagement specialist. Her work with local politicians has made her campaign manager for city and county campaigns. She is an active member of the NAACP, her sisterhood NCNW and ForbesBLK.
Michael Tyrone Baker II is a Technical Operations Manager for Google Fiber. He is responsible for overseeing the expansion, installation, and maintenance of the GFiber high-speed internet plant network within the greater Charlotte metropolitan area. A native of Chesapeake, VA, Baker holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Forensic Science, with a minor in Chemistry, From Virginia Commonwealth University. Baker married Stacy Baker in June 2021, and together they have three children, Jeremy (17), Maya (4), and Nina (2). Together, they created and opened Grow Cafe in July 2024, a full coffee shop and indoor playground concept designed to be a fun, educational space both parents and children can enjoy. Baker chooses to live everyday by the Nelson Mandela quote: “The brave man is now he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.”
Stacy Baker is a proud Charlotte native, wife, and mother of three. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in social work from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Baker launched her career in the nonprofit sector, focusing on youth development, and notably served as the McKinney-Vento Liaison for the Cabarrus County School District. This pivotal role deepened her commitment to supporting children and families in need and inspired her to further her education, culminating in a master’s in public administration from Clemson University. Currently, Baker serves as the Basics Mecklenburg Manager for Smart Start Mecklenburg County, where she spearheads initiatives to raise awareness about the critical brain development that occurs in the first five years of life. Understanding that nearly 80% of a child’s brain is developed by age three, she is passionate about creating nurturing environments that foster early learning and growth.
Jarris Bell is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with North Carolina Social Work Certification & Licensure Board. Holding both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in social work both from University of North Carolina at Charlotte and co-founded Christ Centered Community Counseling PLLC, also known as C4. Bell is a trauma therapist that specializes in mental health, post-trauma stress disorder, community resilience, and addictions. He managed the Michael Jordan Family Medical Clinic and Movement Family Wellness Center powered by Novant until he resigned to go full time at C4 the company he founded. As a trauma therapist Bell also works with individuals with ADHD, family problems, issues of faith, individual challenges, career purpose, depression, marriage problems, anxiety, adolescent, divorce, grief, stress, domestic violence, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, and conflict resolution. His greatest accomplishment consists of creating a family with Melinda Bell, wife of 20 years.
Veronda Bellamy is a state-licensed therapist and nationally certified counselor with an extensive background in corporate America. Combining her background in business with her passion for mindset coaching, she has found a way to provide unparalleled guidance for all her clients via the Relevancy Factor and Happyology, all of which are part of Veronda Bellamy Enterprises. Her vision is to empower women to discover and disrupt the mundanity of living that has left them stagnant, unfulfilled, unhappy, and hopeless. The focus is to disrupt the mental blocks and setbacks so that you can lead a happy, powerful, and purposeful life beyond trauma.
Belinda B. Bennett is the founder of Be About Yours Inc., also known as Be About Your Business. The company helps entrepreneurs structure their businesses to build credit and secure government contracts, ultimately boosting revenue and creating jobs. In addition to these services, the firm offers notarial services and partners with attorneys, title companies, and escrow offices to facilitate loan transactions. When banks and UPS notaries turn away customers due to lack of knowledge, Be About Yours Inc. collaborates with NC Notary Signing Services to help clients complete challenging documents without delays. The company’s most successful initiative to date is the “NC Confident Notary Coaching Program,” which aims to train over 10,000 notaries public across 100 counties. This in-person training will provide visual learners the support they need to address the current issues of delayed and denied documents. Be About Yours Inc. holds several certifications, including HUB Certified and MBE Certified.
Nepherterra Best is an award-winning public relations executive and successful entrepreneur. With more than 25 years of industry experience, her mission is simple: “To amplify voices and stories that inspire positive change.” She currently serves as Vice President of Integrated Communications at CMRignite, the nation’s largest minorityowned social impact marketing agency, one of the fastest growing private companies in the nation, according to INC 5000. She serves on the agency’s executive leadership team and is responsible for the company’s public relations and partnerships departments and leads the agency’s branding and marketing. Her deep commitment to the community is evident through her service. She currently serves on the board of directors for Baby Bundles and Promising Pages. A proud graduate of Johnson C. Smith University, Best says her most important accomplishment is her family, which includes her husband Kendric, her sons Bryson and Brayden and her bonus daughter Taliyah.
Ms. “Momma Bey” is a mother, grandmother, mentor, national trainer, clinician, community activist, and entrepreneur. She recently was honored by YWCA as a Woman of Lifetime Achievement for her work in addressing racism and oppression. She owns Harmony Health, a for-profit that functions like a non-profit, which is known for not only providing culturally responsive mental health care for Black and Brown people, unapologetically, they have also provided free and low cost health services: free blood pressure check services, free yoga classes, free cooking classes, free tobacco cessation programs, free healthy living programs and more. She is often spending her time partnering and advocating for Black and Brown families to obtain financial resources for free and low-cost services for her community. She recently was named by Mecklenburg County Public Health as the Chair of NC Tobacco Coalition, fighting against health disparities for Black and Brown people in Mecklenburg County.
| Bogues Group
Gemale A. Black is a community activist whose leadership and dedication continue to leave a lasting impact. Elected president of the Salisbury-Rowan NAACP in 2017, Black made history as the youngest president ever elected in North Carolina. A proud graduate of Winston-Salem State University, he holds a degree in justice studies. He focuses on Operation THINK, a holistic initiative to address crime in Salisbury, educate, and mobilize voters, and create programs to ensure the thriving of Black and brown communities. Black is a member of the Terrie Hess Child Advocacy Center, Salisbury Police Chief Advisory Board, and Salisbury Housing Advocacy Commission. On November 5, 2022, he was honored with a key to the city, and the City of Salisbury officially proclaimed “Gemale A. Black Day” in his honor. The following year, the Charlotte Business Journal recognized him as a “40 Under 40” recipient.
Brittney Bogues, owner of Bogues Group (BG), provides clients with customized experiences through marketing consulting, public relations, and events, all with unmatched customer service. As a self-made entrepreneur and advocate for women and domestic violence awareness, Bogues’ “go hard or go home” leadership has placed clients in ESPN, GQ, USA Today, and TIME. Since its inception four years ago, BG has grown consistently year over year. In 2021, BG worked with ten clients, gained four new employees, raised over $300,000 with nonprofit clients, and created its first product released to the market in early 2022. Bogues is a leader in every sense of the word. Her recent awards include the 2022 CBJ Women in Business, CLT Businesswoman of the Year, CLT Chamber Young Professionals, Small Business of NC, CBJ 40 Under 40, and 2021 Queen City PR. She is also recognized by NAWBO CLT.
Tya Bolton is the CEO of Exceptional Business Solutions, LLC (EBS), an award-winning firm providing international business management, event management, community engagement, and economic development services for over 25 years. As a speaker and strategist, Bolton fosters conversations that drive change and breakthroughs. Recognized for her philanthropic efforts, she has served on several boards and committees, selecting winners for women’s leadership awards. Facebook acknowledges her as an exceptional digital marketer and a member of the Facebook Leaders Network. For more than 15 years, EBS has been the preferred agency for nonprofits, small businesses, and government agencies, leading project teams in countries like El Salvador, Ghana, and Kenya. Based in Charlotte, N.C., EBS helps clients excel in business and marketing solutions. Tya Bolton’s leadership makes her a valuable resource for entrepreneurs seeking coaching and training. Exceptional Business Solutions holds certifications, including MBE, SBE, and HUB.
Domonique Boone is the Owner and Founder of Leslie’s Laundry Care. Leslie’s Laundry Care was born in 2017 after Domonique helped her mom in a laundry emergency after a washer machine breakdown. Leslie’s Laundry Care is named after Boone’s daughter Leslie to create generational wealth. Leslie’s Laundry Care is a mobile laundry and dry-cleaning service for residential and commercial customers in the Charlotte metro area. They offer free pick-up and delivery to customers so they can enjoy a chore-free day. Leslie’s Laundry Care offers mobile laundry and dry cleaning to help local businesses and companies solve laundry needs with laundry lockers, in addition to towel and apron rental services. Leslie’s Laundry Care has a team of four but seeks advisory services and working capital for strategy and operational planning to scale up the business. Leslie’s Laundry Care recently contracted with Belk Corporate in Carolina Place Mall.
Chiropractic Physician & Owner |
Discovery Chiropractic & Wellness Center
Dr. LaTanya Bowman is a Chiropractic Physician and owner of Discovery Chiropractic and Wellness Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. With nearly twenty years of experience, she focuses on helping clients achieve optimal health through chiropractic treatments. Dr. Bowman employs a “whole-body approach” to care, enabling patients to regain and enhance their health. Founded in 2016, Discovery Chiropractic is among the top 20 chiropractic offices in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg area, treating athletes, children, and the general public. The center aims for patients to leave with pain-free smiles. Discovery Chiropractic is North Carolina HUB Certified and Small Business Enterprise (SBE) Certified with the City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County, as well as Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) Certified. The center has received multiple local and national awards. In 2020, Dr. Bowman was invited by The White House to attend the Entrepreneurs and Innovation Summit, recognized as a game-changer in the entrepreneurial field.
Founder/Owner | BE BIG Coach LLC/Resiliency Therapeutic Services, PLLC, State(s) of Wellness Inc.
Felice Hightower Britt is founder/owner of BE BIG Coach, Resiliency Therapeutic Services, and Co-Founder of State(s) of Wellness Inc. She is a licensed counselor, certified clinical trauma professional, certified life coach, speaker, and author, empowering individuals and couples to achieve their full potential by developing a unique approach to coaching that combines therapeutic insights with practical strategies. She fosters a community of high-achieving women who support and inspire each other to break through limitations and embrace their greatness, overcome anxiety, chronic stress, trauma and self-doubt, enabling them to align their actions with their deepest values and live a life of balance and fulfillment through the BE BIG Collective Community. She is an advocate for Autism and a proud member of AKA Inc., creator of Mentor-Me for Small Business Consortium, contributor to WBTV & WCNC, JCSU and UNCC graduate with BA in Economics and MA in Counseling.
Elyshia Brooks, MBA is the of CEO, BrandNiquely You! Inc., a Personal and Business Brand and Marketing Strategy Consultancy Boutique. President of BrandNiquely You! Academy, an Education and Training academy that works with amazing business owners, nonprofits and leaders. Founder/Executive Director of Be. You! Global Foundation, a nonprofit for women dealing with mental health challenges in relation to domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking. She is an international speaker on women’s empowerment topics. Elyshia attended Albany State University (HBCU); BS and Strayer University; MBA. both in marketing. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated. She has one adult son who plays professional basketball overseas and has a daughter-in-love.
Thelma Susanna Eaddy Brooks is a Vice-President at Wells Fargo Corporation. As Lead Control Management Officer, she leads complex initiatives to mitigate risk and partners with various business groups including the Corporate and Investment Banking business in partnership with Capital Markets Technology to develop and maintain a strong risk and control environment. She earned a Juris Doctorate. Brooks is a proud and active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. where she serves on the chapter and regional levels. In her chapter, she serves as Chairman of the Risk Management Committee and Co-Chairman of the Standards Committee. She was recently selected into the Marquis Who’s Who in America in recognition of possessing professional integrity, demonstrating outstanding achievement and innumerable contributions to society as a whole. Brooks is Managing Owner of TSEB Consulting, LLC a motivational speaking and business consulting firm.
Christian Brown has dedicated twenty years of service to Atrium Health. His work directly impacts the hospital’s ability to provide uninterrupted, quality care. In this role, Brown provides essential functions like credentialing, making sure adequate and appropriate personnel are in place and can move around the hospital only as needed. Brown’s responsibilities extend beyond typical security manager duties. He leads a team that collaborates with the Charlotte Police Department to keep the hospital secure and respond rapidly to emergencies. His expertise in handling high-profile visits, including dignitaries, demonstrates his professionalism, and ability to manage complex security needs. Brown’s leadership style, strategic thinking, and ability to remain calm under pressure have earned him respect and recognition, making him an invaluable asset to the hospital. Brown is lauded for his voice and serves as a master of ceremonies in his spare time. He enjoys spending time with his family.
A Mississippi native, Kaisha Brown currently serves as the City of Salisbury’s communications coordinator. She has contributed significantly to the Communication Department’s award-winning video, print, and social media projects as part of the North Carolina City & County Communicators (NC3C) Excellence in Communications Awards and the Hermes Creative Awards. Brown graduated from The University of Southern Mississippi, obtaining a bachelor’s and master’s degree in mass communication and journalism. She holds an Advanced Public Information Officer certification from the Federal Emergency Management Administration/Department of Homeland Security. Brown volunteers as a crisis counselor and serves as a member of the Rowan County Literacy Council, Salisbury-Rowan NAACP, and Rowan County Chamber of Commerce Leadership Rowan Program. She is the current President of NC3C. In 2022, Kaisha was coawarded the Rowan County United Way Campaign Champion Award.
As head of consultant relations for financial technology company Jack Henry (JH), Khary Brown serves as a corporate key contact for consultant firms, establishing, and maintaining open lines of communication between financial industry consultant agencies and raising awareness for JH’s competencies in the financial industry. Brown earned a BS in communication technology from Eastern Michigan University, an MBA from the University of Phoenix, an MA in biblical studies from Grand Rapids Theological Seminary at Cornerstone University and is Six Sigma Green Belt certified. Brown is pursuing a doctoral degree in business administration from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. He sits on several advisory boards, including the Charlotte Symphony and WDAV 89.9 Classical Public Radio in Charlotte. Additionally, he and his wife, Ja’Net founded Kyden’s Keepers, a non-profit organization supporting families of children with congenital heart defects. He enjoys cooking, golf, and participating in his son’s sporting activities.
Luxury Residential Real Estate Broker | Principal Agent, Bullock and Co. Team, Compass
Nelvia Bullock is a Luxury Residential Real Estate Broker, Accredited Investor, and the Principal Agent of Bullock and Co. Team with Compass. As CEO and Founder of The Bullock and Co. team, she directs an all-female team to deliver extraordinary results for buyers, sellers and investors across the Carolinas. She has earned a host of accolades including 2024 FiveStar Professional Award, Charlotte MLS Top 500 Producer, and America’s Top 100 Real Estate Agents. Her work has been featured in USAToday, Martha Stewart Living, Axios, and Charlotte Real Producers. She is a frequent real estate news guest contributor for Charlotte news stations including WCCB and WSOC-TV. Bullock believes scaling your business starts with serving your community. She serves on the board of directors for McCrorey YMCA, a member of The Charlotte Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. and a member of Women’s Impact Fund and more.
Therapist,
Yulonda Burris serves as the head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at ABM Industries. With 16 years of experience, she has worked for companies such as Bank of America, BB&T (now Truist), Norton Healthcare, and PayPal, focusing on increasing diverse representation and fostering an inclusive culture. A dedicated member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. for 26 years, she is active in her local chapter of Rho Psi Omega, having held the position of Archives chair and co-led the Mid-Atlantic Region Conference gala committee. In 2011, she founded Black Girls Run Charlotte and became a certified run coach. Burris is also a proud mother of a Shaw University graduate and an honor student at Howard University.
LuLu B. Productions
Shamanda Burston is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist, Published Author, and Executive Producer. A doctoral student in counselor education and supervision at Walden University, she holds degrees in mental health counseling (MA/Ed.S.) and human services (BS) from Gardner-Webb University. With over a decade of experience, Burston has worked with diverse populations in psychiatric facilities, addiction treatment centers, prisons, and private practices. She currently serves dual-diagnosed patients at Atrium Health. As CEO of LuLu B. Productions, she integrates mental health awareness into film and TV, promoting counseling and destigmatizing mental illness. Her work has been featured on FOX 46, RedBook, Rolling Out, Sheen Magazine, MADAMENOIRE, and more.
Linda Carr is the founder and CEO of Empowerment for Life LLC, based in Charlotte, North Carolina. The consultancy supports community growth and resident development through individual coaching, organizational coaching, community engagement planning, and multimedia programming. The company partners with for-profit enterprises and nonprofit organizations. With over 15 years of experience in consulting, management, and leadership development, Carr is passionate about empowering individuals to reach their highest potential. Her mission is to enhance awareness in every person and organization she engages with, making a positive difference in her community. Carr holds a Bachelor of Arts in Theology and strives to see communities thrive. Although her projects vary, they consistently focus on creating pathways for success. Empowerment for Life LLC is certified as a HUB, SBE, and MBE, reinforcing its commitment to fostering growth and empowerment for individuals and communities alike. Carr is dedicated to making lasting impacts on the lives of those she serves.
Belinda Carr-Lipscomb is the owner of Elite Homes of the Carolinas, a three-generation real estate firm licensed in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. She began her real estate career in 1994 after graduating from Johnson C. Smith University. Carr-Lipscomb emphasizes continuous education for herself and her agents, holding multiple certifications to ensure knowledgeable service. She leads the local chapter of the Women’s Council of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers and values the opportunity to care for her clients’ most significant financial and emotional assets. Established in 2004, Elite Homes is a Charlotte-based, African American woman-owned firm that provides streamlined processes for buying and selling residential real estate. The firm aims to expand its footprint through brand visibility, technology tools, and training. Her certifications include North Carolina Real Estate License, HUB, DBE, MWSBE, Certified Residential Specialist (CRS), Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR), and Military Relocation Professional (MRP).
John Cash Jr. is the owner of The Narmer Group, LLC, a strategic marketing agency focused on business development, sports, and social impact initiatives. The agency specializes in solutions that enhance emotional engagement and help clients achieve their goals. A recent achievement includes launching the first Historically Black College and University (HBCU) esports program at Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Narmer Group partnered with Gaming Community Co. (GCC) to create an education pipeline for underserved K-12 and HBCU students. The HBCU Esports League now includes 40 institutions and 250 students, providing $750,000 in scholarships and funding for labs and curriculum development. The Narmer Group holds several certifications, including Veteran-Owned Business (VOB), Minority-Owned Business (MOB), Small Business Enterprise (SBE), Historically Underutilized Business (HUB), and Minority and Women Business Enterprise (MWBE) from the City of Charlotte.
Angela Charles has been with the City of Charlotte since 1988. She began her career working in the stormwater section of CDOT. Through a series of promotions, Angela was promoted as the manager of the water distribution system for Charlotte Mecklenburg in 1992. When CMUD combined the water distribution and wastewater collection divisions, Charles was named Field Operations Division Manager in 2004, overseeing over 300 employees responsible for collection and distribution system maintenance of over 8,000 miles of pipe. Charles led the organization through this transition and developed a culture that allowed the Field Operations Division to excel. As Charlotte Water Director, Charles leads a group of over 1,300 employees. Charles has made many improvements in her organization over the years, including creating full-time valve operations crews, developing water main break procedures with an emphasis on water quality testing onsite, and developing AC pipe repair procedures.
Samara Chisholm is the founder and CEO of Carolina Sanitizing Solutions, Inc., a commercial janitorial, residential cleaning, and COVID-19 disinfecting company based in Charlotte, North Carolina. She holds a Bachelor of Administration with a concentration in accounting. After graduating, Chisholm began her career as an accountant in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, specializing in healthcare revenue cycles while also building her tax business. Through her experience, she learned to grow teams and manage a business, incorporating her corporate skills into Carolina Sanitizing. The company is GERMPRO certified for COVID disinfecting and is recognized as a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and Small Business Enterprise (SBE) through Charlotte’s Business Inclusion Program and the North Carolina Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Office. Recently, Carolina Sanitizing Solutions received a subcontract with Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC), marking a significant achievement for the company.
Lutheran Services Carolinas/D and C Creative Services LLC
Shondale Clark has always been a self-motivated, goal-oriented individual, who gets the job done under any circumstance. She graduated from Winston Salem State University, where she obtained her BA degree. In 2017, she graduated from High Point University, with her MA degree. In 2020, she earned several IT certifications from GCTT. Ms. Clark is an IT Specialist at Lutheran Services Carolinas where she manages computers, hardware, software, printers, tablets and networks within an organization. She is also the CEO of two amazing companies called Clark Buttons LLC and D and C Creative Services LLC. The company goal is to provide marketing services, which enables clients to build strong relationships. In 2021, she was awarded WSSU Forty Under Forty. She served as the committee chair of social media and engagement. She is a member of Black Women in Technology, Black Women in Media, Media Women Connect, and Empowered Girls of NC.
Shaun “Lucky” Corbett is a barber, Licensed Instructor and passionate owner of Lucky Spot Barbershop, headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina. Corbett’s passion for cutting hair emerged when he was 13 and continues to drive his dedication to the barber industry, precision cutting and personalized customer service to any client that he services. Corbett has worked diligently to build a brand that creates a culture for second chances, respect and community engagement. For over 14 years and counting, Corbett hosts annual community give back events such as free back to school haircuts, turkey giveaways and Thanksgiving family dinner events. To date, Corbett and the barbershop have successfully supported over 20,000 families in need. In August 2019, Lucky Spot Barbershop took the world by storm by becoming the first African American owned and operated barbershop in any Walmart store, worldwide. Currently, there are 10 locations between North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia.
Marcus Cuffee is a graduate of the prestigious Culinary Institute of America (CIA) in Hyde Park, New York. He co-founded MTC Events in 2018 alongside his wife, Trevonne Cuffee. Originally established as Certain Catering in 2007 in Hampton Roads, Virginia, Cuffee has dedicated himself to creating flavorful, affordable, and enjoyable cuisine and events. MTC Events specializes in southern cuisine with an upscale flair, offering on and off-site catering for both private and corporate events. Their services include food delivery for corporate meetings, casual and fine dining options, day-of-event coordination, and fullservice event planning.
Trevonne Cuffee holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s in business administration. In 2018, she co-founded MTC Events with her husband, Marcus Cuffee, after relocating to Charlotte, North Carolina. Originally launched as Certain Catering in Hampton Roads, Virginia, the company aims to provide flavorful, affordable, and fun culinary experiences. Cuffee plays a key role in managing the business and overseeing event planning, ensuring that MTC Events delivers exceptional service and southern cuisine with an upscale flair for every occasion.
CEO | Yummi Muffin
Yummi Muffin began as an idea in Gina Daniel’s home kitchen during the COVID-19 lockdown in spring 2020. This Black-owned, woman-owned organic bakery offers a unique, relaxing atmosphere for those seeking a quiet space to work while enjoying a delicious morning treat with coffee or tea. Yummi Muffin bakes pies, cookies, muffins, and biscuits daily, with standout items like their original chocolate biscuits and Grandma Dora’s Sweet Potato Pie, exclusively available at the bakery. Daniel’s vision for Yummi Muffin includes a commitment to charitable giving through the “Shelf-to-Help” donation program, which donates unsold products to a local food bank. Yummi Muffin is certified as a Small Business Enterprise (SBE) with the City of Charlotte and as a Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) with Statewide Uniform Certification (SWUC). The company also received the Cabarrus County Small Business Recovery Grant, highlighting its community-focused mission.
Tameran Davenport is the President and CEO of Positive Outlook Grooming (POGrooming), a vegan and all-natural men’s grooming product line sold at entertainment events and trade shows. The company retails in two local boutique shops and has manufactured over 14 products since 2016, including beard and hair care, bald head and facial care, and body and foot care items. POGrooming prioritizes environmentally friendly ingredients suitable for all skin types. Before the pandemic, the company achieved over $15,000 in monthly sales in the Southern Piedmont Region of North Carolina. In 2022, POGrooming was nominated for #31DaysofBiz by the Women’s Business Center of Charlotte and featured in HUAMI Magazine. Davenport holds a Master of Science in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix and a Business Analyst Certificate from North Carolina in Charlotte. POGrooming is certified as a Historically Underutilized Business (HUB), Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), and Small Business Enterprise (SBE).
Jay Davis founded Lulu’s Maryland-style Chicken and Seafood in November 2019, the premiere destination for Maryland-style and soul food-style seafood and chicken dishes in North Carolina. Named for owner Jay Davis’ mother, the restaurant is famously known for its jumbo lump crab cake and is a favorite of celebrities both locally in Charlotte and nationally.
Coaching & Consulting, LLC
Rev. Dr. Zaria Davis is an advocate, leadership development, and nonprofit consultant, spiritual care provider, and educator. Rev. Dr. Davis is ordained through the United Church of Christ. Rev. Dr. Zaria holds a DSW in Social Work from Capella University, MSW from the University of Cincinnati, MDiv from Eden Theological Seminary, and BA in sociology from Wilberforce University. She is trained in Mental Health First Aid, is a certified reiki practitioner, restorative justice practitioner, and healing circles facilitator focusing on trauma and harm. Rev. Dr. Davis is passionate about restoration and healing for individuals impacted by oppressive systems, especially the criminal legal system, and the workplace. She has explored issues such as trauma with women impacted by the criminal legal system and post-incarceration syndrome (PICS). Rev. Dr. Davis provides coaching, consulting, presentations, facilitation, and public speaking engagements throughout the country through New Direction Coaching & Consulting, LLC and Center for Spiritual Care & Healing.
As Founder of Pure Heart Media LLC and D.D.M. Doneta Dawson Ministries, Doneta Dawson is a worshiper, wife, mother, singer/songwriter, author, director, mentor, producer, teacher, minister, and prophet. She has been given rave reviews for arrangement of music, powerhouse vocals with range, piercing clarity, and writing ability. She teaches, and mentors shifting atmospheres and prophetically flowing in song with dance and music ministry. Pure Heart Media houses music, books, apparel, stationery, production, mentoring and more.
Communications Strategist, Content Creator, Brand Manager | Del Consulting Group
Evelyne Del is a Communications Strategist, Content Creator, and Brand Manager who develops comprehensive strategies to help clients engage their target audiences. She also serves as the Director of Business Development and Strategic Partnerships for Substantial Magazine, a Black-owned media outlet. Del Consulting Group is HUB Certified, MWSBE, a Facebook Certified Diversity Supplier, and a certified vendor of the U.S. Black Chamber of Commerce. The firm combines traditional and digital communications strategies to support Black-owned small businesses with education, mentoring, and services aimed at creating generational wealth. A standout project was the June 2020 issue of Substantial Magazine, which addressed COVID-19 and racism. A partnership with The Diversity Movement in Raleigh, North Carolina, earned Del Consulting Group the 2021 Digital Innovation Award. Recently, the firm secured funding and content partnerships with major organizations, including Vidant Medical Center and WUNC, resulting in over $7,500 in sponsorships and increased web traffic.
Commercial Broker | Costello Commercial Realtor
Hailing from New Jersey, Danielle Elaine Dumas-Reid is a prolific writer with a love affair with words. She is a three-time self-published Author of the books “Love Letters I Never Sent,” “Scriptures of Gold,” and “Fire Affirmations for Dope Souls In Transition”. Having been in Charlotte for the last five years, Dumas-Reid considers herself a native. Although she is creative at heart, Dumas-Reid found herself on a journey to become a licensed Realtor. Through Costello Commercial, Danielle is eager to help you secure a home for your business, land, or the next asset for your investment portfolio. DumasReid is the perfect asset to any commercial acquisition and development project with an entrepreneurial drive and eye for lucrative opportunities.
Chief Executive Officer |
Dr. Cassandre Dunbar is the creator/host of the award-winning wellness podcast called Be Well, Sis. In her quest to achieve holistic wellness, she noted that Black women are often alienated in Wellness spaces despite suffering the worst medical outcomes compared to their peers. Dunbar launched her podcast to address this lack of inclusion. She is also the mother of 2 spirited boys and years of ‘doing it all’ finally culminated in severe burnout following the traumatic birth of her now 5-year-old son. Her own experience ignited her passion for real heart-centered self-care for Black women like her who’ve been socialized to be self-sacrificing since childhood. Since its debut, Be Well, Sis has garnered significant recognition for its impact. Apple Podcasts has honored us several times as “New and Noteworthy,” which allowed them to rank among the top 10 Alternative Health podcasts, top 100 Self-Help podcasts, and mentions in Ebony and Forbes.
Performing Arts and Literary Society (PALS)
Vickie L. Evans is the Chief Executive Officer of Performing Arts and Literary Society (PALS), and the Founder of the African American Playwrights Group. She is Charlotte’s 2023 Theatre Person Of The Year. Telling culturally based stories written, produced, and performed by people of color has always been an integral mission of PALS. With over thirty years of experience in The Arts, Evans has made it her life’s calling to provide diversity, equality, and inclusion for actors and playwrights of color ensuring that they have equal platforms to showcase their talents as those actors considered more privileged by biased industry standards. Her actors have performed at highly recognized theaters including the Lincoln Theatre, in Washington, DC; Hattiloo Theatre, in Memphis, TN; and the prestigious Blumenthal Performing Arts Center’s Booth Playhouse and Stage Door theaters, in Charlotte, NC. In addition, PALS have assisted several inspiring authors making their publishing dreams a reality.
Dr. Shiricka Fair is the founder and Chief Inspirational Officer of Provisions Counseling and Consulting Services, which uses evidence-based practices to enhance positivity and productivity both nationally and internationally. The firm focuses on helping individuals re-examine the critical relationships in their professional and personal lives. Through transformational experiences, Provisions Counseling and Consulting inspires new paradigms. Dr. Fair’s diverse background as a life coach, licensed marriage and family therapist, and international psychologist allows her to facilitate significant work/life fulfillment and improve employee productivity. The company holds various certifications, including NC/SC Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist. Recognized as the 2020 Best Charlotte Counseling Business, Provisions was also featured by The Woman Business of Charlotte. Recently, the firm launched the “Mindset Wellness Program” to help businesses and individuals manage stress and boost productivity, along with “Minding Your Business” sessions aimed at successfully pivoting in business.
Shamar Farley, a native of Fayetteville, North Carolina, serves as a Commercial Consultant at Frazier Realty Group. With a natural talent for networking and cultivating relationships, Farley excels in identifying and connecting with potential clients, helping to drive the firm’s growth. A graduate of Fayetteville State University with a Bachelor of Arts, Farley will tell you that the foundation of his effortless ability to build connections with others came from his experience in undergrad. To date, throughout Farley’s professional journey, he has spanned roles from university admissions to business consulting. Working with small community groups to sitting at the table with CEOs and presidents of agencies of all sizes. His passion for community service is evident through his extensive volunteer work in programming, business and partnership development, project management, and event hosting.
Nikelle Fesperman has been the Sales Manager at Pride Magazine for 13 years, contributing significantly to the growth and success of Charlotte’s premier business and lifestyle publication for African Americans and people of color. With a proven track record in developing new business and consistently increasing sales, she has built a reputation for excellence in client relations. Fesperman holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Spanish from UNC Charlotte, reflecting a passion for language and communication. This passion also extends to global experiences, having participated in mission work in Honduras at the age of 16, and studying abroad in Costa Rica during college. Married to husband Juan for 20 years, Fesperman is a proud parent to 13-year-old Chase. Outside of work, family, and community involvement are top priorities, as well as continuing personal growth, and cultural exploration.
Dr. Christa Flood serves as Director, School & District Strategy, for Teach For America - North Carolina, where she is responsible for ensuring hundreds of amazing teachers are hired in Title I Schools across the state of North Carolina. She brings over twenty meaningful years in education. She co-founded a non-profit with her family, Flood Family Foundation, where they award scholarships to college students to help ensure they graduate from college, while leading her own LLC, Becoming Empowered and Motivated, by serving as a motivational speaker. She is a certified life coach and author. She hosts Black Affinity Group meetings and Black Women Entrepreneur meetings at her home for some six years. She serves on the CivicsEdu Board as Vice-President, a non-profit, volunteers in the community, and mentors three young Black females through Urban Promise among additional mentorships across the state. She enjoys spending quality time with her two grandsons.
Shereese Floyd is the founder of AI Consultants for Nonprofits (AICN), an agency specializing in making AI accessible to nonprofits, school systems, and government entities through training, workshops, consulting, and accredited generative AI certification. Floyd advocates for organizations to own their AI literacy by certifying internal team members as resident experts. AICN licenses generative AI curriculums to organizations supporting workforce development and upskilling. She is also the founder of Black Women AI Art, celebrating Black women through AI-powered visual storytelling. Her contributions have been featured in Essence, Chief Learning Officer, and Entrepreneur Magazine. She has been honored as one of 100 Women to KNOW in America and one of the 50 Most Dynamic Women in Charlotte. She serves on the board of the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO), Charlotte Chapter, and organizes TEDxMintStreet.
Mrs. Black International Ambassador 2023 | Scholarship Pageant Organization/Ambassadors of Change
Mallory Foxx, Mrs. Black International Ambassador 2023, is a dedicated mother, entrepreneur, and passionate advocate. As a Kidney Cancer Ambassador and Survivor, she raises awareness and support for those affected by the disease with the Kidney Cancer Foundation. Foxx also proudly represents North Carolina as an Ambassador for changeformentoring.org, where she empowers youth to reach their full potential. With over 300 hours devoted to community initiatives, she focuses on mentoring programs that inspire young people to become the best versions of themselves. Through her multifaceted roles, Foxx combines her entrepreneurial spirit with her commitment to service, making a meaningful impact in the lives of many.
Maritalyn Frazier was Born in Cincinnati, Ohio and raised in Florence, SC. She attended Wilson High School in Florence, SC. She graduated and enrolled in Wingate University where she majored in communication. Frazier currently resides in Charlotte, NC. She began acting at a young age in plays and musicals. In 2013 she started taking her acting seriously by attending casting calls that led to a variety of shows and films. Some would say she is lucky while others say she is blessed. She will tell you that it is a combination of both and her will to do what she was made for. Actress Mari’s motto is “You never to Old to Chase or Follow your Dreams!” Frazier is currently on the Kidney Transplant list which has not slowed her down at all.
Meet Carlos Fuller, the visionary founder of Amodernary Furniture Designs, also known as “The Modern Furniture Store” in Charlotte, NC. Fuller initially made a name for himself in the world of car dealership sales and finance in Roanoke, VA, and set his sights on a new venture-modern furniture. His unique passion for design and unwavering dedication to his craft are truly inspiring. Fuller’s journey with Amodernary Furniture Designs began in 2017 with a modest location in the vibrant Southend of Charlotte. Through his dedication and strong partnerships with esteemed manufacturers, he was able to bring the most exclusive furniture to his discerning clientele.
Reared in the Queen City, Charlotte, North Carolina, Brezandia Gaither, also known as Bre, has an effective combination of Southern charm and tenacity. As a top tier negotiator, she likes to win for her clients but do so with a calm demeanor and a smile. Being a North Carolina native for over 29 years, and a trusted real estate professional, Gaither recognizes and values the trust clients place in her and strives every day to exceed their expectations. Gaither is known for creating a luxury experience in all price points. Gaither strives to ensure that the home buying or selling process is fun, easy and stress-free.
Co-Founder & Owner | DUPP&SWAT
Davita Galloway is a Co-Founder and Owner of DUPP&SWAT, a community-centered initiative that empowers Charlotte’s Black artists and creative entrepreneurs. A graduate of the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Galloway provides access to resources and opportunities that promote social growth and artistic expression. Since 2010, she has been actively engaging with creative communities, advocating for the value of Black artists and entrepreneurs. Galloway’s leadership focuses on innovative programs and events that enhance the economic status and quality of life for Black creatives. DUPP&SWAT aims to create memorable experiences, as demonstrated by successful initiatives like The QC GarMint District, which showcased forty-three market and fashion vendors at The Mint Museum Uptown. Through her work, Galloway strives to inspire and uplift the Black community, merging art and entrepreneurship for cultural impact.
Dion Galloway is a Co-Founder and Owner of DUPP&SWAT, a family-owned and community-centered initiative dedicated to supporting Charlotte’s Black artists and creative entrepreneurs. A graduate of North Carolina Agricultural & Technical University, Dion focuses on creating a safe and expressive platform for Black innovators. Since the inception of DUPP&SWAT in 2010, he has fostered ongoing dialogue with creative communities, emphasizing the multidisciplinary narrative of the Black experience. Galloway’s commitment to marrying art and entrepreneurship drives him to provide access to resources, rigorous programming, and meaningful events that enhance the economic status and quality of life for Black creatives. Under his leadership, DUPP&SWAT aims to make each connection and experience inventive, inspiring, and memorable, exemplified by successful events like The QC GarMint District at The Mint Museum Uptown.
Jonathan Ryan Gardner is the Founding Executive Director of GardHouse. With several years of external and internal outreach experience, Gardner has led engagement initiatives from the tech industry to the government sector. As ED of Charlotte’s first work-based organization that primarily focuses on college students of color, Gardner developed paid internships within small businesses and nonprofits to demonstrate that they too can be economic drivers and training hubs for young talent. He launched GardHouse after finding that underserved college students were twice as likely to be unemployed than their counterparts for the last fifty years. Utilizing his outreach experience and Philadelphia upbringing as his foundation, Gardner vowed to provide personalized experiences for students of color to excel in whatever field they choose.
Rod Garvin is a consulting manager at EY in the Economic Development practice. He has more than a decade of experience in economics, workforce and community development. He has led and managed local and regional strategic planning projects in multiple states across the US, including North Carolina. Prior to joining EY, Rod was an SVP and executive director at the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance. Garvin has lived, worked and contributed to the Charlotte community as a civic leader for more than 20 years. He recently served on the board of Carolina’s College of Health Sciences. He is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi and has a bachelor’s degree from UNC Charlotte and master’s degree from Clemson. He is married to Akilah and is the proud father of Ayanna and Ruby.
“The world is before you, and you need not take it or leave it as it was when you came.”
- Baldwin
Vikki T. Gaskin-Butler, M.Div., Ph.D., is the founder and CEO of Vikki T. Gaskin-Butler, Ph.D., PLLC. As a licensed psychologist (clinical health psychologist) in Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina, Dr. Vikki focuses on integrating body, mind, and spirit through consulting, coaching, counseling, and psychotherapy. In addition, Dr. Gaskin-Butler offers a range of retreats and workshops tailored to the needs of organizations or small groups. Dr. Gaskin-Butler graduated from Spelman College, magna cum laude, with a major in psychology. She also has a Master of Divinity from Emory University, a Master of Science and Ph.D. in psychology from the University of Florida. Dr. Vikki is married to Dr. Malcolm B. Butler. They have one son, Malcolm L. Butler. As a native Floridian, Dr. GaskinButler loves the beach. She also enjoys singing, writing, reading, listening to music, and attending Broadway shows and concerts.
Jessica Gibson is the Executive Director of Just Do It Movement Inc., a nonprofit agency she founded. She relentlessly serves her community, particularly neighbors experiencing houselessness, helping them obtain essential documents to access employment and housing. Gibson also assists her clients in connecting with housing opportunities. She left her 15-year career to follow what she believes is God’s calling to serve her community. Gibson earned a Nonprofit Management Certification from Duke University and holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management. Additionally, she is a licensed cosmetologist, certified health coach, notary public, and a newly published author. Her book, Chile, Take That Leap, will be released on November 9, 2024. She is also the owner of her own salon suite, Essence Beaute, LLC. Jessica is a natural-born leader, a mother to her 10-year-old son, and the wife of her loving husband, Lemel.
Ebony Givans is the Owner at London Ds, a soul food business that combines culinary passion with community service. She oversees daily operations, menu creation, and community outreach programs. As the first African American woman to win a government contract on her first attempt, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership and innovation in her field. Her commitment to giving back is evident through her numerous events supporting the homeless and her plans to launch a meal delivery service for busy parents. Givans is an active member of HUB, SBE, and MWSBE dedicating her time to volunteer work and community support. She grew up with Crohn’s disease, which fueled her passion for food and helping others. Outside of work, she enjoys cooking, traveling with her husband, spending time with her family, playing bingo, and supporting her community. She lives by the quote “The best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today.”
Edward Givans is the co-owner of London D’s Catering, established in February 2022 in Durham, N.C., and later expanded to Charlotte. Alongside his wife, Ebony, Givans has successfully run the catering business for over 10 years, specializing in soul food while offering a range of cuisines. London D’s Catering LLC/London D’s Cafe primarily serves government officials and patrons around the Mecklenburg County Courthouse, where it is the exclusive food provider. In May 2020, London D’s Catering secured a significant contract with the Mecklenburg County Courthouse, a key milestone in the company’s growth. Givans’ leadership and commitment to quality have helped the business earn certifications such as HUB, SBE, and SERVSAFE, ensuring high standards and reliability. His focus on delivering exceptional service has made London D’s a trusted catering provider in the Charlotte area.
Howard Glover is an environmental education teacher, and a Team USA Level 2 Archery instructor dedicated to empowering today’s youth through innovative programs and physical fitness. As the founder and CEO of Hard Grinderz LLC, he leads initiatives like the Diverse Youth Programming (DYP) project and the Hard Grinderz Kings Growing Kings Mentoring Program. The DYP project introduces non-traditional sports, such as archery, to youth in the area. It emphasizes the sport’s history, safety, technique, and core strengthening. The curriculum integrates archery with academic subjects, helping students improve in math, science, reading literacy, and character building. By investing in Hard Grinderz, communities can bridge the academic success gap. Glover believes that building relationships is essential for academic achievement and economic mobility, ultimately fostering hope and reducing poverty. His certifications include Team USA Level 2 Archery Instructor, North Carolina Certified Hunters Education Instructor, and Certified Personal Trainer in Boxing Fitness.
Ken Goodwin is originally from Columbia, SC and now lives in Charlotte, NC. He has a BS degree in information management, M.S. degree in information systems and an MBA. Goodwin also completed the Certified Government CIO program at UNC Chapel Hill and the MPA Public & Non-Profit Management Academy at UNC Charlotte. Goodwin is a proud member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. He has won and/or been nominated for various academic and professional awards. He was nominated and won the 2011 Outstanding Alumni Award from the College of HRSM at USC - Columbia. He was a finalist for the 2022 and 2023 ITSMF Technology Leadership Award, Technology Leader on the Rise, Nonprofit/ Public Sector. Goodwin was also nominated and listed in Diversity MBA Magazine’s 2022 Top 100 under 50 Executive Leaders in Corporate America.
Centario Grier is a financial planning expert based in Charlotte, North Carolina, where he lives with his family. He specializes in holistic financial strategies that incorporate debt, risk, and investment management, aiming to grow and protect clients’ wealth. Grier works with families to secure their financial futures, helping them prepare for critical economic milestones like college funding, retirement savings, and business transitions. With nearly 15 years of experience in the Financial Services Industry, he previously excelled as one of New York Life’s top African American advisors. Grier holds a bachelor’s degree in business management from Western Carolina University and has passed the FINRA Series 6 and 63 securities exams. In March 2020, he and Jabbar Jamison made a strategic decision to affiliate with MassMutual Carolinas, enhancing their ability to serve clients effectively.
Dr. Gigi Hamilton is rewriting the script on personal empowerment with The Cape Escape: Redefining Your Superpowers. This groundbreaking movement isn’t just about self-help, it’s a call to action, inspiring people to step boldly into their strengths and unleash their full potential. With The Cape Escape, Dr. Hamilton equips individuals with the tools to break through limitations, embrace their “superpowers,” and transform their lives. A master of personal transformation, Dr. Hamilton combines her expertise in psychology with a no-nonsense approach to growth. Her workshops and coaching programs have helped countless individuals not just survive but thrive, leading lives filled with purpose, confidence, and unstoppable momentum. Known for turning challenges into triumphs, Dr. Hamilton’s influence reaches far beyond the page. She’s creating a legacy of transformation, empowering people to live boldly, dream bigger, and redefine success on their own terms.
Kendall Hamilton isn’t just raising the bar in gaming but is rewriting the playbook. As a top 10 global player in 3v3 Rocket League, Hamilton has dominated the competitive gaming world. But his true impact comes from transforming the way gamers think about success, both on and off the screen. As a performance improvement coach, Hamilton guides gamers to not only sharpen their skills but to master their mindset. His approach goes beyond gameplay focusing on mental, emotional, and personal well-being. For Hamilton, winning is just the beginning; real success is about thriving in life. A fierce advocate for mental health in the gaming community, Hamilton brings his message to stages like Esports Next and Blacks in Technology. He’s redefining what it means to be successful in gaming, ensuring players level up in every aspect of their lives.
Rasheed Haneef, originally from Brooklyn, NY, enlisted in the U.S. Navy and retired honorably as a Chief Petty Officer in 1997. While serving, he earned a degree in Workforce Education from Southern Illinois University. Following his military career, Haneef worked as a Financial Advisor at Morgan Stanley and traveled the country to develop new business programs, mentoring over 10,000 associates. After leaving the corporate world, he published his book, Are You a Salesperson or a Business Owner?, which outlines his philosophy on sales, relationship building, and business development. Haneef is now focused on Tutor Doctor Charlotte-Central, which provides academic support to students from K-University levels. The goal is to change students’ life trajectories by matching them with the right tutors. Recently, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools selected Tutor Doctor as a partner to support students from 42 low-performing schools, funded by a $50 million initiative over three years. Tutor Doctor Charlotte - Central is HUB and DBE Certified.
Shana Hannibal, a graduate of College of Charleston and USC Columbia and english major, moved to Charlotte to teach in 2007. While teaching, she noticed how challenging it was to find genuine friendships. This inspired the creation of Queens of Charlotte. This organization works to pair friends with new experiences around the city. Along with pioneering friendships, she also writes suspense novels. Her passion for Charlotte and her commitment to helping others continue to guide her every day.
Qadira Harris currently serves as Vice President, Global Responsibility for Matterport where she leads the company’s diversity, equity and inclusion, social impact, volunteerism, sustainability and ESG programs. Harris has diverse experience in both the corporate and non-profit sectors. She has an entrepreneurial spirit and thrives in environments where she can create strategic collaborations, help build organizational reputation and connect people and places to resources. Her previous experience includes leading Walmart’s global philanthropic disaster strategy including the response to COVID-19. She’s also held leadership positions at AARP, Allstate and CVS Health.
Tony Harris is the strategic advisor and executive with The Harris Insurance Group, Inc., a certified NC HUB and Small Business Enterprise entity specializing in risk management, insurance consulting, and production. In addition, he is a part of the faculty for The National Alliance for Insurance Education and Research. Harris’ career spans from serving as Chief Risk Officer in Higher Education, a Risk Consultant in the Utility industry, and a Safety & Risk Director in the public sector. He is also a past recipient of the Public Risk Manager of the Year Award. Harris resides in Charlotte with his wife and children. He also serves as a Sr. Pastor for Empowerment. Harris enjoys coaching, swimming, and riding his mountain bike in his spare time. Harris holds a BSBA in risk and insurance, an MS in safety, security, and emergency management, a D.Min, and is pursuing a PhD from NC A&T.
Dasia Hood is an independent marketing strategist, events planner, and communications consultant from southern Ohio. After observing trends in arts, culture, health, and entrepreneurship within the Black community, she moved to Charlotte, NC, in 2021, recognizing it as a hub of opportunity. With over seven years of experience in sales, hospitality, event planning, management, and marketing, Hood also holds degrees in psychology, hospitality management, and marketing. Her expertise focuses on driving revenue and enhancing engagements through relationship building and effective messaging. As a strategic activator, she supports the arts, culture, health, and hospitality sectors. Passionate about empowering the Black community, Hood aims to inspire ownership in business and creativity. She is dedicated to increasing citywide events and media platforms that promote health, wealth, and happiness within Black culture. Her work is centered on delivering impactful messages that contribute to the overall success of the community.
& CEO | RVL Wellness Co.
Brittny Horne is the Founder and CEO of RVL Wellness Co., a brand dedicated to enhancing the well-being of Black women. With over a decade of experience as a Senior Product Manager in the IT space, Horne understands the stresses of daily life and work. RVL Wellness Co. encourages Black women to prioritize self-care by offering luxe wellness products that promote mindfulness and quiet time. Each product features curated artwork from Black female artists, reflecting their values and dreams. Formerly known as Shades of Joy Co., RVL Wellness Co. is part of the $450 billion self-care industry. Horne aims to grow the brand through innovative product offerings and artificial intelligence technology, focusing on the unique needs of Black women. Her mission is to provide a transformative self-care experience that empowers women to invest in their personal and professional well-being, fostering a culture of self-love and mindfulness.
Dr. Tamesha Hughes-Frazier is a pivotal figure in the local community, particularly in education. She founded Hughes Elite Scholars Inc., a 501c3 agency, enhancing educational opportunities for over 400 students, especially first-generation learners, in Charlotte and surrounding areas. Her own story of resilience, from a low-income neighborhood to earning a doctorate in higher education administration, inspires those she aids. Dr. Frazier’s innovative educational approach, combining traditional and novel methods, has significantly broadened student access, especially in remote areas. Her entrepreneurial drive in sustaining this impactful nonprofit showcases a transformative vision in education. Dr. Frazier exemplifies a beacon of hope and determination, her work not only elevating students’ educational paths but also serving as a testament to overcoming adversity through hard work and dedication. Her holistic, creative educational strategies and her commitment to community uplift make her an outstanding nominee, embodying the essence of passion and resilience.
Shaza Ibrahim is the Founder of Mind the GAHP, a wellness initiative designed to improve mental health, work-life balance, and self-care for students, professionals, educators, and community leaders. With a background in Public Health from Johns Hopkins University, she combines her academic knowledge with personal experiences to create impactful wellness programs, like Your Best-Balanced Life, which has been facilitated and licensed to educational institutions and nonprofits. She has led workshops for organizations like Johnson C. Smith University, helping students and professionals cultivate healthier, more balanced lives. Through her work, she aims to support those who often care for others but neglect themselves. Outside of her professional life, Ibrahim enjoys traveling and spending time with loved ones and is committed to community service, helping to bring accessible mental health solutions to underserved populations.
Na’Shota Lytle Jack is the owner of Caramel Complexions Spa, LLC and she is the Practice Manager of Callisto Pediatrics, where she oversees the daily operations of the Practice. A graduate of Johnson C. Smith University, this New Haven, CT native is very involved in the community. She is a member of the following organizations: Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Junior League of Charlotte, Order of the Eastern Star, PHA. Jack was recently awarded an ambassador award from SororiTea, named after her for her efforts for promoting sisterhood and unity across NPHC lines. Jack is married to Damien Jack, has 3 adult children and 2 grandchildren. She loves to travel and bake.
Juanita Corry Jackson is the CEO of Global Impact University Consulting, LLC. She is a certified speaker, trainer, coach, and bestselling author, as well as the Overseer of I Believe God Ministries International, Inc., and the host of the Let’s Talk Podcast. A skilled business professional, Jackson applies her solutions-oriented leadership across diverse industries, including healthcare management, real estate, and training and development. She helps leaders and teams reach their full potential by guiding them to understand their gifts and purpose. Jackson is also a mother, grandmother, and a woman of faith, serving as a Transformational Vision Specialist. Global Impact University Consulting, based in Charlotte, North Carolina, was formed in October 2020 and also operates as Juanita Jackson Realty. The company plans to offer a wide range of certification and degree programs and specializes in residential real estate, aiming to develop a turnkey affordable housing community.
With a passion for creating delectable dishes using only the freshest ingredients, Chef Mitzi Jackson boasts an impressive resume that includes experience in catering for upscale parties, advising restaurants on how to improve their menus and operations, and serving as a trusted personal chef to high-profile clients who value her dedication to quality and flavor. Her extensive background in culinary management with a focus on healthy eating was instrumental in developing nutritious meals for the student body at the University of Pennsylvania. Her role as executive chef gave her the opportunity to showcase her skills in menu planning and food preparation. Empowering athletes and individuals beyond the kitchen, Chef MJ shares expertise on ABC, WCNC, and Food Network, embodying positive change in cuisine and wellness. She believes that food is a segue into intimate conversation.
Tony R. Jackson is the Founder of The Real Money Coach LLC and is a seasoned financial advisor with over a decade of experience in wealth management and investment strategies. Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, Jackson specializes in helping clients achieve their financial goals through personalized planning and education. He is known for his client-centric approach, focusing on building long-term relationships and understanding individual needs. Jackson holds a bachelor’s degree in finance and has earned several industry certifications, enhancing his expertise in financial planning. Passionate about financial literacy, he actively conducts workshops and seminars to educate the community on smart financial practices. Jackson is dedicated to empowering individuals and families to take control of their financial futures, ensuring they make informed decisions for lasting wealth.
Tanya S. James is a devoted wife, mother, philanthropist, and entrepreneur committed to being the example that personal and professional success can coexist. James earned a dual degree in public relations and print journalism from North Carolina A&T State University and her master’s degree in mass communication, concentration in public relations, from the University of Georgia. She is the Founder of the Tanya S. James Foundation & KJ’s Hope Foundation and the CEO of TJ Entertainment Group. Additionally, she is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc and The Recording Academy. Last year, her foundation opened the Tanya S James Elementary School in West Africa, and she was inaugurated as the Queen of Kpakoko Village located in the Los Djiboua Region of the Ivory Coast of West Africa. This year, they opened two more schools in West Africa named after her children.
Jabbar Jamison resides in Charlotte, North Carolina, with his family. He specializes in holistic financial planning, focusing on debt, risk, and investment management to help clients grow, protect, and transition their wealth. Jamison assists families in safeguarding their lifestyles and financial futures, preparing for significant economic events such as funding college, saving for retirement, or transitioning businesses to the next generation. With over 14 years of experience in the Financial Services Industry, he previously worked as a Commercial and Private Banker with BB&T (now Truist). Jamison earned his B.A. in Economics with a minor in business management from the University of Pittsburgh and an MBA in commercial banking from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. He is also an Investment Advisor Representative with MML Investor Services, LLC, having passed the FINRA Series 7 and 66 securities exams.
Former Carolina Panther Charles Johnson is more than an athlete. He is an entrepreneur, coach and mentor who is making an undeniable impact on youth and families in Charlotte and beyond. Born in Hawkinsville, Georgia, Charles was a three-sport athlete at Hawkinsville High School and the Carolina Panthers drafted him in the third round of the 2007 NFL Draft from the University of Georgia. He spent all 11 years of his NFL career in Carolina where he broke records. But what’s even more impressive about Coach Johnson, is his commitment to youth athletes in the Charlotte region. As the founder of New Age Athlete, Johnson is dedicated to growing the game of football and supporting youth through New Age Flag Football and his new New Age Athlete facility on North Graham Street. He is humble and hardworking, dedicating countless hours to support children and their love of football.
Maureen V. Johnson has been in the travel industry for over 20 years and founded Legacy Travel & Tours in 2014. Based in North Carolina, Johnson is a Certified Travel Agent with The Travel Institute, as well as a Certified Business Travel Specialist and Trusted Travel Advisor with Travel Leaders Network. She is a retired military veteran, has a background in the life and health insurance industry, and has recently become the primary caregiver for her mother. It is these life experiences along with her belief that travel can be a part of the healing process, that allow her to better communicate with her clients the value of including wellness and self-care experiences in their travels.
Nicole Johnson founded Digital Made Simple in 2012. With over 15 years of self-taught web/graphic design experience, she founded and grew her company to give businesses the tools, and strategies to unlock their true potential that’s achievable by anyone. Before starting her business, Johnson spent 18 years in manufacturing for Fortune 500 companies. With her degree in chemical engineering and MBA in strategic management, she was most successful in organizational change management and global quality assurance using her certifications as six-sigma black belt, lean continuous improvement black belt, supply chain professional (CSCP), and ISO quality auditor. Coupled with her lifetime passion and awards for visual arts and graphic design she’s able to marry strategic business consulting with high-quality branding and design. Digital Made Simple is a digital marketing agency that helps brands experience less confusion, and frustration about marketing to empower them to reach their goals with confidence and authenticity.
Health Administrator/License Professional Counselor | Managed
Robert A. Johnson, III, D.H.A., LMHC-S, LPC, CCM,GCDF, has served in many firsts, such as being the youngest and first black male to work in a state agency Medicaid-Hospitals Division and being the 1st black male in a thriving counseling private group practice. Robert is the Top 1% of Licensed Black Male Counselors in both SC and NC (border states). Robert specializes in the treatment of mental health issues for individuals, couples/ marital counseling and family therapy. He holds a bachelor’s degree from West Virginia State College (now university) in psychology, graduating in only three years. He also holds a master’s degree from Marshall University and possesses a Doctoral Degree in Health Administration. Awards include Alpha Phi Alpha Alumni of the Week, Who’s Who Among 20 Under 40 for SC Black Pages (2022-2023), and the Young Alumni Award from WVSU, among others. Robert is very active in many community organizations. God/family is first.
Friday Jones is an American Artist Creative Entrepreneur (ACE) and was raised in the Carolinas. With a primary discipline in music, she creates inspirational Black Americana music that is whimsical and soulful with an emphasis on world play, storytelling, and epic production as part of her signature style. She paints masterful worlds of experience with her theatrical performance art, blurring disciplines, and shattering preconceived notions of art. Jones has managed to both successfully produce music and leverage her years of professional corporate, creative, and artistic experience to help other aces develop a magnetic brand experience. In 2021, she founded friday’s dope llc, a visionary entertainment and media conglomerate headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina that is leading the way in creating impactful artistic experiences that inspire healing, growth, and manifestation for artists and art lovers alike.
Dr. Karla F. Jones is a native of Fayetteville, N.C. and a graduate of East Carolina University. She serves as the Program Coordinator and Assistant Professor of Sport Management at Queens University of Charlotte. Dr. Jones is currently developing a Master of Sport Management Program that will launch in 2025. In 2024, she organized a trip for her students to work the 2024 NFL Super Bowl in Las Vegas. Through her sports industry network, during an academic year, she secures 50 guest speakers, over 30 networking events, and a vast amount of experiential learning opportunities for her students. Lastly, she was an inaugural member of the Charlotte Hornets/Bobcats/Sting NBA Security Team for over 9 years. Affiliations: WISE (Women in Sports & Entertainment), Sports Philanthropy Network Charlotte Chapter Leadership Council, NC Sport Management Association, Immediate Past Chair of the ECU Alumni Association Board of Directors, and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated (National Committee Member).
Marc Jones is the CEO and Founder of Dreissig Apparel Inc. A former college athlete, he established the award-winning company in 1999 to design and manufacture athletic apparel. Dreissig Apparel supplies custom gear and casual wear to sports teams, fundraising organizations, and corporate clients across the U.S. The company also offers in-house screen printing and embroidery services. Since its inception, Dreissig has launched corporate, state, and hospital divisions, operating as Dreissig Company. It is certified as a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) in New York, Tennessee, North Carolina, and the city of Charlotte. In 2018, Dreissig Apparel won the MWBE Business of the Year award from the Upstate Minority Economic Alliance. In 2020, it received the Muhammad Ali Entrepreneur Sports and Business Award from the NAACP of Central New York. Most recently, in 2021, the company was honored with the Minority Business of the Year award from CenterState CEO.
Nathaniel Jones hails from a family rooted in strong values and leadership. Growing up in the construction industry, he developed a passion for heavy equipment and structural engineering, working summers at his father’s construction business. After graduating high school, he attended Appalachian State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in business and construction management, finishing at the top of his class. With over 20 years of experience, Jones Construction Enterprises specializes in demolition projects, emphasizing safety, budget compliance, and timely completion. The company has collaborated with clients such as Charlotte Douglas Airport, the City of Columbia, and federal projects like Santee Lynch. Jones Construction prioritizes client satisfaction in services including hazardous material removal, building demolition, excavation, asbestos abatement, and erosion control. The company holds several certifications, including Certified General Contractor, DBE Contractor, HUB, MBE, and Hazardous Material Certified, ensuring high standards in all its operations.
Terrence Jones is the owner of 360 Umpires LLC, a certified minority business enterprise recognized by North Carolina’s HUB and SBE programs, as well as by the City of Charlotte. A resident of Charlotte since 2008, he has over fourteen years of umpiring experience at various NCAA levels, including three MEAC Championships and a Junior College World Series. Raised in Cooper-Greenpoint, New York City, Jones has officiated for multiple leagues, such as the Charlotte Adult Baseball League and the North Carolina High School Athletic Association. Since 2014, he has worked in Division 1 college baseball across various conferences and has been involved with Minor League Baseball since 2020. At 360 Umpires LLC, he manages the booking of officials for adult and Little League baseball/ softball, oversees league billing, and implements strategies for recruiting and retaining officials, all while maintaining meticulous records.
Director
Portia Kee has been a muse to many through her ability to tap into her creative mind, see a vision that is in alignment with one’s product or service, then execute the vision from every stage of creation, expansion, and manifestation. Since the 2013 launch of The Kee Group, Kee has been the creative force planning many high-profile events, including former Miss USA Cheslie Kryst’s Homecoming Reception, worked two Democratic National Conventions, and has branded herself as the “Event Philanthropist” executing numerous annual philanthropic fundraiser events and galas. Kee holds a BA in public relations from North Carolina A&T State University and earned a certificate in Meeting & Event Planning from UNC-Charlotte. She is based in the Queen City of Charlotte, and is mommy to her Princess Victoria
Dr. Stephanie M. Kirkland, also known as the Identity Shaper, is the CEO and Founder of Identity Dynamics, a leadership development company specializing in her proprietary identity-centered leadership framework. As an organizational leadership consultant and executive coach, she empowers leaders to harness their unique identities for self-leadership and authentic success. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Kirkland has worked with organizations like Capital One, UNC Charlotte and Dominion Energy to enhance leadership and workforce capabilities. She holds a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership from Northeastern University, a Master of Organizational Leadership from Columbia College, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Queens University of Charlotte. Dr. Kirkland serves on the boards of the Women’s Intercultural Exchange and The Hive Community Circle. Married to John U. Kirkland for 30 years, they have three adult sons. Her favorite quote is, “Do the work your soul must have.”
Dr. BerNadette Lawson-Williams is a tenured Professor of Sport Management at Johnson C. Smith University, where she serves as Founder and Coordinator of its Esports and Gaming Trifecta and online Sport Management programs, both the first of their kind at an HBCU. Her commentary has been presented at state, regional, national, international, and congressional-level conferences, featured in publications such as the Washington Post, and televised on NBC, ABC, CBS, and TheGrio. She is also the recipient of the 2023 NC SHAPE College/University Sport Management Educator of the Year award and the 2022 Black Society of Sport Professionals and STRIDE award. Dr. Lawson-Williams is the author of two books: Blossom Bee’s Golf Adventures and I Don’t Mean to Smash Your Tomatoes, Honey!, numerous journal articles, the co-author of two textbook chapters, and was recently featured on the cover of Huami Charlotte Magazine. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority.
Native to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Jahlil Lord moved to Charlotte, NC after achieving a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from The Pennsylvania State University. Presently, Lord is the owner-operator of a full-service commercial realty firm, Frazier Realty Group, LLC, commonly known as FRG. Established in 2021, FRG has closed over $100 million in sales volume. The team includes 10 licensed advisors and an asset management team. FRG provides expertise to business owners and investors, alike, catering to local, regional, and national markets. In addition to his efforts mentoring junior brokers in commercial realty, leisurely Lord will lecture a course called “Practicing Professionalism” at The Harvest Center of Charlotte. The course is predicated on re-acclimating the homeless back into the workforce by facilitating business practices such as customer service, conflict resolution, and ethical decision making.
Dr. Drew Lyons is a native of Raleigh, North Carolina and an entrepreneur at heart. After he and Dr. Joya had secured their dental positions post-residency, God placed entrepreneurship on his heart and being the humble servant that he is, he took heed. He decided to recruit his wife for this huge endeavor. Together, they opened Smile Savvy Cosmetic Dentistry in 2014, and since then they have experienced exponential growth in their practice. His expertise in Dental Office Design has catapulted him to new heights where he’s being tapped by peers to give talks at events on this very topic.
Dr. Joya Lyons hails from the suburbs of Detroit, Michigan. When she’s not hard at work at Smile Savvy Cosmetic Dentistry, she’s lending her sweat equity to S.C.O.R.E., INC, a mentorship program which gives academic and financial assistance to high school girls who want to pursue careers in the fields of science, math, engineering, and technology. She runs this program with her big sister, Dr. Janelle Davison, OD, who is also her mentor.
Shakieta Maloye is a successful entrepreneur, life coach, and philanthropist who has dedicated her life to helping others. She is the owner of Pure Wisdom Life Coaching and the founder of Another Chance House of Refuge, two organizations that are committed to improving the lives of people in need. Born in Florence, SC and raised in Charlotte, NC, Maloye grew up in a family that emphasized the importance of hard work. She earned a degree in Health Science and began her career as a Life Coach and Counselor working with people struggling with life, mental health issues, and addiction. In 2015, Maloye founded Pure Wisdom Life Coaching, a company that provides coaching and consulting services to individuals and organizations. Her coaching programs are designed to help people achieve their personal and professional goals, improve their relationships, and overcome obstacles in their lives.
Ebony Wine & Spirits is the first Black-owned wine and spirits company based in North Carolina, founded and led by Camillya Masunda, a visionary entrepreneur with a master’s degree in project management. With Ebony Wine & Spirits and Diaspora Vodka, they blend culture and craftsmanship to create premium beverages that celebrate diversity and excellence. As the CEO, Masunda oversees all aspects of the business, from product development to marketing to distribution. She has established dynamic partnerships with distributors and companies across the country, increasing the brand’s exposure and sales. She is also passionate about innovation and leadership, seeking to redefine the industry standards and inspire the next generation of Black entrepreneurs. She is always open to new opportunities and collaborations that can elevate the world of wine and spirits. Cheers to innovation!
Dr. Monique May is the founder of the brand “Physician In The Kitchen,” and enthusiastically promotes plant-based and healthy eating. Her mission is to fix America’s health one plate at a time, and her brand includes a low-sodium vegan Worcestershire sauce. In addition to being a two-time best-selling author, Dr. May is also a speaker, blogger, consultant, and influencer. Hailing from New York, she attended UNC-Chapel Hill (BS, Psychology), Temple University School of Medicine (MD), and George Washington School of Public Health (MHA), graduating with honors. She completed her residency in family medicine in Charlotte and was named Outstanding Resident of the Year. Dr. May is a proud and active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated and The Links, Incorporated. However, her greatest accomplishment is her son Mitchell, who is currently studying at North Carolina A&T. She enjoys exercising, traveling, dancing, and getting to know her new puppy Miles.
Deanita McCall is the founder and lead designer for Empress Laine, a fashion apparel brand created to celebrate mature plus-size women, a group that is often an afterthought in design. With over 27 years of work and leadership experience in Audit, Corporate Philanthropy, and Change Management, her prior work experience also includes five years in public accounting with Deloitte and Arthur Andersen. She is a graduate of Howard University and a member of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. She is married to husband, Dwoski, has two sons, Caleb and Seth, and resides in Charlotte, NC.
Tino McFarland is the founder and CEO of McFarland Construction. McFarland earned a Purdue B.S in civil/structural design and I.U. Kelley MBA in finance. McFarland has continued to advance his formal education by completing continuing education at the Bell Leadership Institute and holds general contracting licenses in seven states. Professionally, McFarland oversees the McFarland Construction service offering, ensuring that our core values of community, commitment, and collaboration are upheld in all client, civic, and company interactions. McFarland is involved in several community organizations including Arts and Science Council, National Black MBA Association, YMCA, Leadership Charlotte and the Charlotte Chamber of Commerce, The ROC, Ace Mentoring, She Built this City, Associated Builders & Contractors Association, CORE Net, Metrolina Minority Contractors Association. In the community, McFarland consistently leverages his influence, relationships, and understanding of value to promote positive movement in the construction industries leadership diversity and utilization rates of small and diverse businesses.
Tre’ McGriff is the founder/director of Charlotte and North Carolina’s first film festival dedicated to animators of color, the CineOdyssey Animation Festival. A native of Long Island, NY, he received his education in film from the Hollywood Film Institute and the School of Visual Arts in NYC. He also earned a B.A. degree from the University of Buffalo as a Communications and African American Studies major. He has worked with acclaimed sci-fi novelist Tananarive Due, and he has produced several local independent films. He’s curated V.I.P. screenings for film studios and served as programming director, panelist, and juror at several film festivals, showcasing his commitment to diverse stories. McGriff continues to promote African diaspora and animated films through partnerships with kweliTV, Black Public Media. and the International Animated Film Association. A self-described “foodie”, and huge NY Knicks and Buffalo Bills fan, he loves to frequent antique malls.
Dr. Ericka L. McKnight is a mother of three beautiful college students and a nationally acclaimed CEO, Graduate Degree Professor, Real Estate Extraordinaire, Wealth Professor and Multi award winning best-selling author. Dr. McKnight is the first African American woman to own a real estate school in the southeastern region in addition to recently being awarded the Championship Leadership award in London, UK because of the impact she’s given around the world. She currently has a dual doctorate degree in education (minor psychology) and entrepreneurial leadership. She is the Founder & CEO of ELM School of Real Estate & ELM Realty Firm. Her passion and drive for the past 20 years in the real estate industry has been taught to the world. Her knowledge, expertise and resources have connected others to generational wealth. As a global pioneer and trailblazer Dr. McKnight has successfully ushered more than 5,500 families into homeownership and helped to create over 4600 real estate investors and others to obtain their real estate license.
Daryle McNair is a Business Relationship Support Specialist with Wells Fargo and has over 25 years of banking and insurance experience. He is the Founder and President of the McNair Foundation Incorporated, which provides scholarships and educational assistance to Historically Black Colleges and Universities students. He also serves as the Tournament Director for the McNair Invitational Golf Tournament. Daryle is a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated serving as the Assistant Keeper of Records. As a Prince Hall Freemason, he serves as Worshipful Master of Wagram Lodge #322 and is the Director of Training for the Orient of North Carolina Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite. He’s also a member of Rameses Temple #51 Shriners and Ideal Chapter #596 Order of Eastern Star. Presently he serves as a precinct chair in the Mecklenburg County Democratic Party. He is married to Stefanie McNair and they have one daughter Amiah.
Saichelle McNeill is the Founder and COO of the WashRoom Laundry Service, recognized as a second chance employer. Despite challenges posed by COVID-19, she has successfully maintained profitability. A proud graduate of an HBCU, McNeill holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology/Chemistry and an MBA with a concentration in Marketing. With over 12 years of manufacturing experience at companies such as Energizer and Unilever, she is also Six Sigma Green Belt Certified and skilled in Lean and Kaizen principles. Since 2016, the WashRoom has provided pickup and delivery laundry services to residential and commercial clients in Charlotte and the surrounding areas. McNeill’s commitment to service is reflected in the company’s mission: “You do life, and we do the laundry!” The WashRoom Laundry Service holds various certifications, including Historically Underutilized Business (HUB), Small Business Enterprise (SBE), Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), and Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB).
Hatisha (Tee) Mike is a licensed real estate broker with over 20 years of experience in North and South Carolina and eight years in healthcare management specializing in senior care. Her expertise includes property management, sales, acquisitions, and investor training. Hatisha studied Retail Management at Rochester Institute of Technology and Communication Arts at Long Island University. As CEO of Wyndam Whels Property Services Inc., established in 2017, she leads a full-service real estate brokerage. The company is recognized as a Historically Underutilized Business (HUB), Woman-Owned Small Business (WOSB), and Small Business Enterprise (SBE). With a growing interest in senior housing, Mike aims to provide upscale assisted living options. Her vision combines real estate and senior care, with the firm’s first property—a newly constructed nine-bedroom home with private suites—set to open in Mint Hill, NC, on two and a half acres in a tranquil, nature-inspired setting.
Since co-founding A.C.E. Academy in 2014, Laila Minott has empowered students from all backgrounds to excel in their college or career paths through academic excellence, character development, and an entrepreneurial mindset. Through the Young Moguls program co-founded with Shawn Smalls they teach youth how to monetize their talents, boosting self-esteem, and academic performance. With over 20 years of collective experience, they have launched 150+ businesses, equipping students with financial literacy to make smart decisions and business development. As the CEO and Director of several businesses Minott has consulted with companies, and non-profits on leadership trainings, budget building, strategic planning, and project management. Together, we can inspire the next generation for successful leaders and entrepreneurs!
After fifteen years of experience in the financial services industry, Kimberly Morris-Hansley took a leap of faith and opened T.U.T.O.R. Financial Counseling and Literacy Services, LLC.
T.U.T.O.R. Financial Counseling and Literacy Services, LLC was established in 2020 to close the wealth gap and make financial stability available to individuals and families in the Southeastern region of the United States. The company aims to educate and empower its clients while providing financial counseling, consulting, and management that support their journey to financial wellness, freedom, and stability. T.U.T.O.R. Financial Counseling and Literacy Services, LLC is a Small Business Enterprise (SBE), Minority-Owned Business Enterprise, and Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) in the State of North Carolina, Certified by Charlotte Business INClusion in the City of Charlotte, a Register Vendor of the MWSBE Program in Mecklenburg County, and a Registered Vendor in Union County.
Sundari Muhammad
President/Credit Coach & Business Consultant | Melanated Berries
Sundari Muhammad is a native of Anderson, South Carolina, graduating from Anderson University in 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design. She is the owner of Melanated Berries, a vegan chocolate-covered strawberries and treats business that opened in January 2020. Melanated Berries is a chocolatier’s expression of creativity and customer care, focusing on quality vegan-friendly, lactose-free, and diabetic-friendly options. The specialty chocolate uses chocolate as the first ingredient—unlike most known brands that prioritize sugar. Melanated Berries allow people to enjoy chocolate without harmful concerns, making customers feel healthy and happy. The business offers chocolate sets, boxes, and packets, along with chocolate bombs, pretzels, and chocolate-dipped dried citrus. Melanated Berries plans to grow through strategic brand partnerships, a strong customer service orientation, and event marketing.
Duvale Murchison is an accomplished actor and film producer who began his career in 2014 with a role in Batman vs. Superman: Dawn of Justice. Since then, he has appeared in nearly 20 films and TV shows and produced ten independent short films and documentaries. His most notable project is the 2022 documentary PTSDOC: The Silent Suffering and Trauma of the Corrections Officer, which explores the mental and physical trauma faced by corrections officers, highlighting the alarming rate of depression and suicide within the profession. Murchison is certified in smartphone cinematography and Filmic Pro filmmaking software. He is also dedicated to community service as the President-elect of the 100 Black Men of Charlotte and an Advisory Board Member of Piedmont Health Services. His videography company, Duvale Murchison Videography, established in 2016, focuses on creating and producing engaging content for TV and streaming platforms.
Paul Nelson is the Regional Director for The African Think Tank and CEO of Global Impact Industries. A U.S. citizen of Sierra Leonean and Cameroonian descent, Nelson has over 25 years of experience in business consulting and development, specializing in cross-cultural collaboration within the African diaspora. His leadership was shaped by his participation in the African Union Leadership Forum, representing Cultiva Global. Nelson is a seasoned strategist and business matchmaker who has coordinated multi-million-dollar international operations across industries like education, manufacturing, hospitality, and commodities trade, while providing workforce development solutions in Africa and the U.S. He holds an MA in Global business management from Queens University, an MBA in marketing and business management from South University, and a BA in communication and culture from Howard University. As a SCORE mentor, Nelson strengthens U.S.-Africa relations, excelling in conflict resolution, market trend analysis, and creating high-impact solutions through innovative strategies.
Tommy Nichols is the CEO of Glorified Media, a media, technology, and event company managing media-based assets. Under his leadership, Glorified Media has launched cultural platforms like the Charlotte Black Film Festival, Queen City Arts Festival, and IOCTV, a 24-hour distribution network recognized as the best virtual event in Charlotte. With over 20 years of entrepreneurial experience, Nichols has overseen multi-milliondollar projects, including a $10 million computer and network integration and a $1.2 million technology upgrade for the Department of Defense. In the third quarter, Nichols plans to launch an app aimed at increasing transparency in the criminal justice system by providing access to body cam, dashcam, and surveillance videos. His achievements have earned him features on NBC, FOX, CBS, and recognition in publications like Market Watch and the Charlotte Observer. Glorified Media’s accolades include Best Virtual Event, CompTIA certifications, and The Business Journal’s “40 Under 40” award.
Diamond Nurse is a dynamic marketing and social media expert and entrepreneur with a finger on the pulse of excellence. With 15+ years of experience in digital strategy, integrated marketing communications, customer relationship management, and strategic planning, Nurse has consistently proven her ability to lead successful social media campaigns for small, medium, and large businesses. She also leads and teaches social media courses and provides social media strategy coaching. As a connector who thrives at the intersection of entrepreneurship, social, and empowerment. Nurse believes life is at its richest when people are connected to people, things, and experiences that both pour into them and draw on their unique gifts, talents, skills, and interests. Always on point with who needs to meet who, and which brand fits which audience, Diamond is an influencer in circles where contemporary women’s entrepreneurship and social networking converge.
Timothy Nurse is a native Brooklyn-ite that uses his humble beginnings as motivation to take full advantage of each day. He is a strategic thinker with +25 years’ experience in analyzing data, driving adoption, structuring business cases and building relationships. Nurse is currently a Digital Channel Manager, responsible for managing innovative payment concepts through a critical path pipeline. Nurse joined Bank of America in 2011 thru a consumer MBA rotational program. Since then, he has worked in 4 different lines of businesses, obtaining 8 different roles primarily as a project manager. Outside of Bank of America, Nurse is a published author, co-owns a professional networking group, hosts social events, raises funds for local charities, owns a career coaching business, and facilitates Christian business seminars.
Abi Olukeye is the Founder and CEO of Smart Girls HQ, a National Science Foundation Award-winning STEM education provider dedicated to empowering young girls to achieve STEM career literacy by age 12. With over fifteen years of experience in new product development, technology commercialization, and strategy, Oluykeye leads Smart Girls HQ in creating engaging content and experiences. The organization offers parent education through RaisingSmartGirls.com, reaching over 30,000 families across digital platforms, and provides the Dear Smart Girl kits, a project-based STEM curriculum tailored for girls. The learning platform features gamified digital simulations that transition into handson experiences, enhancing knowledge retention. This innovative approach addresses the challenges of non-traditional learning environments. Current investors include the National Science Foundation, The Vela Education Fund, and the NC Idea Foundation. Smart Girls HQ is actively raising funds to expand its team and aims to reach 50,000 families and learners nationwide as paying subscribers.
Paula Orezi is an author, speaker, and coach. She is the author of “From Me to You,” a motivational poetry book, and a co-author of “Experts & Influencers: Women’s Empowerment Edition. Orezi holds a master’s degree in business leadership from Nova Southeastern University and a bachelor’s degree in organizational management from Palm Beach Atlantic University. She is passionate about inspiring people to change and creating positive, win-win outcomes. Paula has extensive experience in mentoring others and driving change in everything she does. Her message is tailored for business-minded professionals, or anyone looking to start their own business, focusing on overcoming mindset beliefs and conducting sales through relationship-building. Her mission is to help people break free from destructive thinking and daily habits. Orezi has been featured in podcasts, magazines, and article blogs. Passion Vista Magazine has recognized her as one of the top 50 women leaders to look up to.
Shalanna Pirtle serves as a trusted mediator and employment attorney. Leveraging professional acumen and real-world experience, she brings an uncommon perspective to this work. Pirtle works with parties to find resolution, no matter the size of the dispute, with patience, empathy, creativity, and perseverance. Certified as a mediator by the North Carolina Dispute Resolution Commission, she mediates disputes of varying subject matters at the state and federal levels, both before and during litigation. Mediation is an important tool that can be useful for parties in the resolution of all disputes. Effective mediation is about helping parties sort out their issues, needs, goals, and the ultimate root of the conflict.
Tommie Pressley is the owner of TLP Design Studios, a boutique branding and marketing firm established in 2015. Under his leadership, TLP has successfully implemented marketing campaigns for over 25 companies, organizations, and national brands across the U.S. Recently, the firm achieved its annual income in just one quarter and received multiple industry awards. TLP Design Studios specializes in helping businesses increase traffic, sales, and conversions. In 2022, the company was recognized as one of the Best Website Designers in the Charlotte market by Expert.com. A notable project involved the re-launch of the South Carolina Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma fraternity’s website, enhancing user experience and mobile functionality. TLP Design Studios holds several certifications, including Minority-Owned Business Enterprise (MBE), Historically Underutilized Business (HUB), and Small Business Enterprise (SBE) in North Carolina, as well as certifications from Charlotte Business INClusion and the City of Charlotte.
Joshua Proby, founder of Peace4Poverty, is a minister, author, and speaker whose life journey is marked by resilience and purpose. Molested at a young age, he endured a difficult childhood characterized by mental, emotional, and physical abuse. Sheltering his pain for years, he eventually turned to crime and was sentenced to 12 years in prison. During his incarceration, he was isolated in solitary confinement for two years, a harrowing experience that forced him to confront his past and find meaning in his suffering.
Today, Proby uses his personal story to inspire and empower others. His message is not about being special but about the transformative power of truth and hope. By sharing his experiences, he helps those who feel lost or alone to find their own path toward healing and redemption.
Nakisha Procope is the Principal Advisor, Founder of Epocorp Advisors, LLC, a consulting firm specializing in Community Engagement and Business Development. At Epocorp Advisors, Procope is responsible for driving strategic partnerships, overseeing project management, and ensuring impactful community initiatives. She has over 20 years of experience in leadership roles at Wells Fargo, Duke Energy and Fifth Third Bank. Procope serves serves as an appointed county official in both North and South Carolina, established a $10,000 endowment to support single mothers, and holds the position of Vice Chair on the board of directors for a nonprofit organization. She is an active member of the Junior League of Charlotte and the Charlotte Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Currently, she is pursuing a Master of Public Administration (MPA) and holds a undergraduate degree in Public and Nonprofit Administration. Procope enjoys traveling with her family and hosting events.
Kristie Puckett, MA is a civil rights activist and (dis)organizer with firsthand experience in poverty, drug addiction, domestic violence, and incarceration. She is dedicated to creating change through policy and advocacy using deep relational organizing and lobbying. Puckett specializes in addressing the conditions of confinement for women and girls, including pregnant individuals, within carceral facilities. Her tireless work has significantly impacted local, state, regional, and national levels. Recognized for her unwavering advocacy for incarcerated pregnant women, Puckett received the esteemed Dogwood Award from NC Attorney General Josh Stein. She also serves on multiple boards for national and statewide organizations, lending her expertise to research projects on topics such as policing, political violence, pretrial and perinatal incarceration. As an abolitionist, Puckett strives to dismantle racist systems and actively contribute to creating a healthy, vibrant, thriving, safe, and just community.
Lynn Reed is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) with over 20 years of practical experience. Reed’s specialized areas of expertise are depression, anxiety, psychosis, women’s health, trauma, grief, and Black mental health. Reed is the owner of her private practice counseling business, Charlotte Therapy and Teletherapy Services PLLC, a Clinical Director with a local community mental health organization, certified diversity and inclusion facilitator and a contract counselor. Reed received an M.A. degree in counseling; graduate certificate in substance abuse counseling; and two BA degrees; Africana studies and psychology, all from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Reed is currently in her last year of her Doctoral degree program in health administration from Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta, Ga. Reed is an avid traveler of the Caribbean islands where the beach is her happy place. Reed’s proudest accomplishment and achievement are her 3 adult children and 6 grandchildren.
Catrina Reese, is the founder of Catrina Reese LLC, and also a Wedding Consultant, Premarital/Life/ Business Coach/Author. Reese has become one of the most soughtafter wedding consultants in the nation. Her 20 years of wedding expertise and professionalism makes her top in the wedding industry. She will make sure that your wedding day is one of the most special and important days of your life! And she will want to make sure it’s everything you’ve ever dreamed of, her REVIEWS are your guarantee. At Catrina Reese LLC., she believes that your wedding should be a reflection of your love and individuality, and she offers a range of services to help make your big day perfect, from helping you choose the perfect venue to coordinating with your vendors, down to officiating and premarital coaching. Reese will be there to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring that your wedding is stress-free.
Founder & CFO |
Alicia Roberts has overcome numerous obstacles and remains resilient in the face of adversity, inspiring other women to do the same. She has skillfully balanced life as a single mother, a 19-year career in corporate finance, entrepreneurship, and active community service through her church and as a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated. She earned an MBA from Indiana Wesleyan University and is currently working on an MA in counseling to better serve in the coaching profession. She currently works full-time as the CFO of Girl Scouts Carolinas Peaks to Piedmont. Her commitment to helping others achieve their goals inspired her to become a best-selling author, Bible App devotional writer, podcast host, speaker, and certified confidence and inner-healing coach. In 2020, she founded The Confident Lily, a personal development company that equips women all over the world to find their personal power.
Dr. Benjamin Robinson has managed fiscal responsibilities exceeding $3 billion in revenue and operating budgets of $550 million and established organizations from the ground up. Serving on the World Finance board and the MDI Keepers Fund investment committee, Dr. Robinson has also been an independent director of Bottomline Technologies. He earned accolades in 2024 as one of “100 Black Board Members Making a Difference” and the Most Influential Black Corporate Director in 2021. Notably, the Wall Street Journal and Ebony Magazine featured him. Dr. Robinson’s career spans roles at Prudential Annuities, Bank of America, and Mastercard Worldwide, where he was CEO of Cardholder Solutions. His early career includes being a Congressional Advisor to the US House of Representatives and Federal Reserve Advisory Board and serving as an officer in the United States Navy. A Bates College graduate, he holds a master’s from Trinity College and a PhD from the Union Graduate School.
Bobby Robinson is a Charlotte-based business and intellectual property attorney and a serial tech entrepreneur. Robinson is currently a partner at Nexsen Pruet and advises various clients on corporate and intellectual property matters, including social media marketing campaigns and name, image, and likeness (NIL) for college athletes, agencies, and institutions. He is active in the Charlotte business community and serves as an advisor to several companies. He also serves on a few non-profit boards, including the Carolina Small Business Development Fund (CSBDF). Robinson is the Founder of IntellyDoc, a contract and workflow automation solution. IntellyDoc is developing a workflow and contract automation solution, leveraging AI/Machine Learning to help legal departments and other enterprise-level departments save time and reduce operational inefficiencies with a comprehensive, integrated platform to manage business agreements and related documents.
Freedom Fighting Missionaries is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded by Kenneth “Kenny” Robinson to assist formerly incarcerated and criminal justice-involved persons with reentry by achieving self-sufficiency through sustainable services and resources. Freedom Fighting Missionaries was awarded $2 million in funding for supportive housing for individuals re-entering society after incarceration.
Renado Robinson is the owner of Crosswinds Insurance Agency, with a career in insurance that began in 1997 at St. Paul Companies. Starting as a mail clerk, he advanced to Underwriter by 2004, the year St. Paul was acquired by Travelers. By 2007, Robinson became Managing Account Executive within Travelers’ Ocean Marine Department, a role he held until founding Crosswinds in 2015. Robinson’s accomplishments include the 2022 IIABSC Henry P. Glover Jr. Agent of the Year award and the 2023 Harvey Hawkins YOCO Biz Person of the Year. He has also served as a Director with the Big I of South Carolina and Fort Mill Economic Partners and is a member of The 100 Black Men of Greater Charlotte. In his spare time, Robinson enjoys spending time with his family and fishing.
Myron Ross is the President of Morcon Construction, LLC, a full-service general contracting firm founded in 2015 in Charlotte, NC. In his role, Ross guides the firm’s strategic direction and oversees daily operations. A native of Charlotte, he actively invests in his community through youth leadership programs with New Heights and the Maurice Rogers Foundation. Additionally, Ross serves as the secretary for the Metrolina Minority Contractors Association (MMCA), which supports minority contractors through leadership development, certification assistance, and networking opportunities. Morcon is also affiliated with several professional organizations, including the Carolinas Association of General Contractors (CAGC) and the Carolinas Ready Mix Association (CRMA). Myron earned his Construction Management Diploma from NC State University in 2017 and completed his General Contracting continuing education at Central Piedmont Community College in 2014. His commitment to community and professional development underscores his leadership in the construction industry.
Chelley Roy is a distinguished talk show host, celebrity fashion designer and wardrobe stylist, author, and the founder and CEO of “The Chelley Roy” brand. She is dedicated to inspiring, motivating, and uplifting women through personalized coaching and guidance. Roy is the successful founder of “THE CHELLEY ROY SHOW,” the author of The Making of a BO$$, and operates as a celebrity wardrobe stylist at The Chelley Roy Styling Agency. Her recent projects include serving as lead designer and stylist for Sean Paul, Trina, Danielle Monet from Law & Order, and Drew Sidora from The Real Housewives of Atlanta
Nikki Rushing, the CEO/Founder of 180° Essentials SkinCare, launched her skincare brand in 2017 to provide innovative anti-aging skincare through combining anti-aging technology with plant-based emollients, plant extracts, and antioxidants to reduce the visible signs of aging. Rushing believes in a mindful approach to beauty. 180º Essentials SkinCare is a Leaping Bunny Certified and Clean Beauty brand that utilizes ingredient percentages science dictates for optimal results. Rushing’s use of a local manufacturing facility allows her to produce small-batch to large-scale formulations strategically and cost-efficiently. The most successful project since the inception of 180º Essentials SkinCare was to be chosen as one of HSN’s “The Big Find” winners in 2019 and launched on-air on February 24, 2021. Going from having an online store with local recognition to a national platform with millions of viewers broadened and expedited customer reach, acquisition, and product demand exponentially.
Wynne Salter is an accomplished entrepreneur and real estate investor, known for his expertise in sales, finance, and customer service. As the co-owner of Salter & White LLC, which he founded in 2019 with Isaiah White, Salter has been instrumental in shaping the company’s diverse portfolio of products and services. In 2021, he played a pivotal role in launching Carolina Housing Services, a venture dedicated to providing safe and affordable housing. The company specializes in creating fully furnished homes, complete with utilities, strategically located in specific neighborhoods. Carolina Housing Services has successfully served various tenants, including veterans and traveling nurses, and has achieved remarkable results, such as a 50%+ ROI within 30 days for their latest women-focused property. Salter is committed to expanding Carolina Housing Services throughout Charlotte and beyond, with plans to significantly increase the company’s growth by the end of the year.
Eric Sede Nietcho, PharmD, is a licensed pharmacist dedicated to improving access to quality, affordable medications for providers, health entities, and patients. His mission to enhance pharmaceutical care led him to transition from retail and clinical pharmacy to pharmaceutical supply chain, procurement, and consulting. As the founder of Global Bridge Pharmaceutical Inc., a US FDA-registered company, Sede Nietcho focuses on pharmaceutical and healthcare solutions with a global network. Owned by pharmacists and physicians, Global Bridge provides medicines to hospitals, drug information services, and healthcare consultations. The company also facilitates the export of US pharmaceuticals to international markets, helping American pharmaceutical firms expand into African markets. Amid rising medical costs and evolving healthcare needs, Global Bridge is poised to offer diverse solutions through its extensive network. Their certifications include HUB, National Minority Supplier Diversity Council (NMSDC), Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB), and System For Award Management (SAM).
Erika “Nikki” Shorty is the owner of HER Life Coaching, LLC. A devoted mother of two daughters and a wife, she is an HBCU graduate and a certified life coach, career coach, and holistic life coach. Shorty takes great pride in presenting a coaching agency founded on love, resilience, hope, and a touch of faith. Through her own journey of self-discovery and growth, she has transformed her experiences into a platform for sharing valuable life lessons. As a triple certified life coach, she is dedicated to guiding her clients—whom she considers some of the brightest and most hardworking individuals—on how to bring their vision boards to life. HER Life Coaching is not just a business for Shorty; it is a manifestation of her commitment to empowering others on their paths to success.
J.T. Simpson is the owner of McNichols Auto Group, L.L.C., operating as Rescue Tow Truck, which began providing towing services in 2013. With over nine years of experience, Rescue Tow Truck specializes in light, medium, and heavy-duty tows for vehicles and industrial machinery, offering 24-hour service for distressed cars and semi-trucks. The company also assists clients in relocating vehicles to local mechanics, ensuring professional and affordable service along with outstanding client experiences. Recently, the American Automobile Association selected Rescue Tow Truck to expand its operations in Metropolitan Charlotte, adding eight tow trucks and four service trucks to its fleet. McNichols Auto Group, LLC holds numerous certifications, including SBA, Historically Underutilized Business Zones (HUBZone), Minority-Owned Business, Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB), and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE), among others. These certifications underline the company’s commitment to quality service and community support.
Marlon Smith is dedicated to inspiring individuals and communities to reach their fullest potential. He graduated from the University of Virginia with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. While in college, Smith founded Street Academics, a mentoring program that paired college students with high school and middle school students, marking the start of his lifelong commitment to positive change. In 1992, Smith left his position as a Systems Engineer at Hewlett-Packard to pursue his mission as a keynote speaker. He has since empowered audiences in 45 states and 18 countries, including tours across the former Soviet Union, Canada, Japan, and South Africa. Smith has produced television and radio programs, such as “Motivational Mondays” and “Success is Your Choice.” Recognized as a top motivational speaker by ESSENCE Magazine, he has contributed to the Tony Robbins Global Youth Leadership Summit and the bestselling “Chicken Soup for the Soul,” and was a semifinalist for Oprah’s BIG GIVE.
Dr. Taylor D. Spencer, known as Dr. Taylor Dee, is a former elementary teacher turned song-singing, children‚Äôs author, educator, and entrepreneur. She holds a Doctoral Degree in Curriculum and Instruction, and a Clemson University master’s degree in youth development leadership. Dr. Spencer is also the founder of Wonder Academy Preschool and Tutoring Center serving 100+ students daily located in Charlotte, NC. She is also the Founder of Right Now Works Education Agency and Taylor Dee Kids TV Media and helps organizations and educators launch and grow youth serving organizations and businesses through customizable step-by-step approaches. Her YouTube page has over 10K subscribers with 1,694,446 views. She also helps students learn and grow while creating music and books to make learning more interactive and fun. Dr. Spencer is a proud multi-passionate creative at heart, on fire for impacting education & business, all while striving to inspire and help others along her journey.
ZaNia Stinson is a 17-year-old honor roll senior at Jackson Day School making a difference in the world. She is a member of Greenville Memorial AME Zion Church. Stinson saw a woman with children begging for food at a food store. She gave the lady $5.00, they both cried. Stinson knew hunger and homelessness. Her early life was spent in homeless shelters. When Stinson went to live with her foster family, later her “forever” (adopted) family, she never forgot days at the shelters. Age 9, Stinson created nonprofit, Z Feeds Angel Food Project. She makes “Go-Go Bags” filled with food and toiletries distributed to homeless shelters and people on the streets. Stinson has packed 2,200+ food bags and 600+ toiletry bags. She has appeared on Drew Barrymore Show, Meredith Vieria Show, NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt and other media outlets.
Principal
and
Chief Visionary Strategist | ExCELL Development Consulting, Inc.
Vanessa Y. Stuart Jefferson, Ph.D., known as “Dr. V, The Real Estate Disruptor,” is a prominent leader in business and nonprofit sectors. She is the Principal and Chief Visionary Strategist of ExCELL Development Consulting, Inc., and the Founder and Executive Director of Human Capital Investment, Inc. (HCI). Dr. Stuart Jefferson, an NC Board-recognized Industrial/ Organizational Psychologist, has a multicultural background and extensive international experience. Through her consultancy, she utilizes her expertise in business strategy, real estate investment, and human behavior to enhance performance and ignite purpose in leaders, social entrepreneurs, and public servants. ExCELL Development Consulting empowers social-preneurs to navigate the Real Estate Supply Chain, aiming to transform communities of color from victims to leaders in gentrification through property acquisition for wealth generation. The organization seeks innovative partnerships to launch virtual courses and consulting services, fostering a responsible Real Estate Disruptors movement that equips investors and developers with essential skills and knowledge.
Ednethia Thomas Founder/CEO, E Thomas Financial Group | VP of Community Outreach and Client Services, SCORE Charlotte
Ednethia Thomas is an accomplished businesswoman and founder of E Thomas Financial Group in North Carolina. With over 14 years of experience, she offers services in credit restoration, business structuring, tax preparation, and financial planning. Her expertise in operations, finance, and corporate training makes her a trusted advisor for business growth. As Vice President of Community Outreach and Client Services for SCORE Charlotte, Thomas is deeply involved in community service and mentorship. She is a certified SCORE mentor, Scrum Master, and licensed health and life insurance agent. Known as “The Bridge Builder,” Thomas connects diverse groups, fostering collaboration, and community cohesion.
Rita Thomas embodies “acknowledge what you want to do differently” as the founder of 110 North, The Creative Agency, a Black female owned creative agency. Thomas has 15+ years of marketing experience across multiple industries. A member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, she holds a BA in communications residing in Charlotte, NC with her husband and son. As an award-winning communications expert, she’s led marketing teams through the development and production of fully integrated campaigns across media platforms for corporations including Walgreens, Harpo, Ally Financial, and Sirius XM. Under Thomas’ leadership, 110 North developed a Gun Violence Prevention and awareness campaign for the Mecklenburg County Office of Violence Prevention. Due to the successful impact, it was shared as an example of best practice at The White House for VP Kamala Harris’ Violence Prevention Roundtable. Their latest campaign focuses on raising awareness of and stopping the spread of HIV in our community.
David “DJ Chuck T” Thrower is one of the nation’s top DJs and music industry tastemakers and has earned over 40 awards for DJing and his other exceptional accomplishments in the music business. DJ Chuck T has been featured on MTV, BET, and VH1 and in The Source, Vibe Magazine, XXL, the NY Times, and the NY Daily News. He’s helped artists like DaBaby, Young Dolph, Bankroll Fresh, Yung Joc, Young Jeezy, and Trey Songz go from local hitmakers to global superstars. In 2019 he partnered with the Charlotte Hornets to form the NBA’s first ever Music Industry Night and created a music business course, The Foundation of Music, which teaches aspiring artists, DJs, producers, and music professionals the ins and outs of the music business.
| Gymonkee
Jerome Touchstone is an innovative business development professional dedicated to delivering tailored marketing solutions that exceed customer expectations. With a resultsoriented approach, he possesses exceptional problem-solving skills and a proven track record of sales success, all while maintaining a strong commitment to quality assurance. Jerome focuses on maximizing client ROI and is a goal-driven leader who thrives in fastpaced business environments, consistently contributing to team success and driving growth.
Born in Jacksonville, NC, Thomas Turner always played sports. He excelled in basketball and earned a scholarship to Gardner Webb University. He wanted to assist other student-athletes in navigating school and sport, so he created Back 2 Basix - a youth organization that taught life skills to the student-athlete through athletics. As the owner of REELKLEEN, Turner brings team philosophy and excellence to his employees and customer service. Created in 2016, REELKLEEN is a commercial janitorial company focused on servicing retail, office, construction, and various work environments through day porter, nightly, weekly, or deep cleaning needs. Each team member, individually and thoroughly trained to their specific scope of work, provides safety and green product care to ensure clients and their employees and customers with a clean space to work within and a healthy one. REELKLEEN is a cleaning service; however, the company aims to become a facilities management company serving our clients’ cleaning, landscaping, and building maintenance needs. The company’s certifications include HUB, MBE, and SBE.
Troy L. Veale, from Lewiston, NC, excelled in athletics at Bertie High School, earning a full scholarship to Livingstone College. His achievements as a student-athlete led to induction into the Livingstone College Athletic Hall of Fame and recognition as CIAA Defensive Player of the Week. Post-graduation, Troy ventured into entrepreneurship, founding One Love Periodic Services, Inc., and PHD Laboratory plus others. He co-founded Community Programs, supporting underserved demographics. Veale’s civic involvement spans Livingstone College committees and charitable endeavors, earning recognition from Strathmore’s Who’s Who and Metropolitan Executive Registry. His dedication to social justice and community service earned accolades like the Martin Luther King Jr. Volunteer Award. Veale’s leadership extends to Charlotte Metropolitan Area initiatives, including scholarships and philanthropy for marginalized communities. As a visionary, Veale epitomizes resilience and determination in his pursuit of impactful service.
Interim Vice Chancellor/Executive Director, ECSU Foundation
Student Affairs & University Advancement | Elizabeth City State University
Dr. Kevin J. Wade brings nearly two decades of experience in higher education across academia, student development, alumni engagement, and corporate relations. Currently serving as the Interim Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs & University Advancement, and Executive Director for the Elizabeth City State University Foundation, he holds a Doctor of Education in Community College & Higher Education Leadership from Morgan State University. Since 2018, Dr. Wade has secured approximately $3.5 million in grants and external funding to address critical student needs at Elizabeth City State University. Also, he is a board member for the River City Community Development Corporation and Halifax Community College Foundation. Dr. Wade’s accolades include the 2022 Southeastern Association of Educational Opportunity Program Personnel (SAEOPP) TRIO Achievers Award and membership in ECSU’s Inaugural Cohort for the 40 Under 40 Society. He has been an active member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. for nearly 25 years.
André Walters is a licensed attorney with a law degree from the University of Baltimore School of Law, an English degree from the University of Delaware, and a master’s degree in business administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Walters is a resourceful business and legal affairs executive with experience drafting, reviewing, negotiating, and closing business dealings. He is also a creative business leader that has taken companies from inception to launch as an entrepreneur and has brought innovations to companies as an intrapreneur. Walters has worked in the corporate world as a Vice President of Legal Affairs and is a serial entrepreneur. He believes his work experience has allowed him to relate to people on multiple levels.
Leslie Ware is the Executive Vice President and co-owner of Clinicians Advocacy Group and CEO and practitioner of direct primary care practice Alpha Health and Wellness, DPC. In 1991, she received a Bachelor of Science in Community Health Education. In 1993, Leslie went on to receive a Master of Education in Health Education from the University of Nebraska Lincoln and a Master of Physician Assistant Studies at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in 1999. She is an Internal Medicine and Family Medicine Physician Assistant and a Health Educator with over 30 years of experience in preventing and treating chronic conditions, specializing in hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. Her mission is to promote optimal health and wellness with therapeutic lifestyle changes and access to innovative and affordable healthcare solutions.
Stephanie Washington is a licensed financial and mortgage professional with 15 years of experience pursuing her NFEC and AIN designations. She is the Founder and CEO of Elevate Financial Services LLC, a Charlotte-based financial wellness company dedicated to empowering underserved communities. Elevate Financial Services aims to equip women and marginalized groups with the tools needed to achieve financial literacy and freedom. Washington’s holistic and effective approach focuses on economic and housing stability, making her company successful since its inception in 2015. Elevate offers a range of services, including financial coaching, online workshops, seminars, and speaking engagements. One of their upcoming projects, Living Wellthy, is designed to assist small business owners in providing financial wellness resources to their employees, guiding them toward financial independence and stability. Through these initiatives, Washington and her team are committed to transforming lives and fostering leadership within the financial industry.
Angela Wheeler is an entrepreneur on a mission, with nearly two decades of experience in the field. Their journey started with a strong desire to address a specific problem. Today, Wheeler leads a successful real estate company, providing exceptional value to customers and making a significant impact in the real estate industry. In 2020, Wheeler founded the nonprofit organization Wheelux Reach. Their achievements were recognized in 2021 when they were featured in The Know List, a publication highlighting notable women to know and do business within Charlotte, NC.
Isaiah White is a compliance professional and real estate investor, co-owning Salter & White LLC. Founded in 2019, the company serves as the parent organization for various products and services. In 2021, White and his partner launched Carolina Housing Services, focusing on providing safe and affordable housing options. Under his leadership, Carolina Housing Services has strategically developed fully furnished homes, complete with utilities, in targeted neighborhoods, catering to tenants such as veterans and traveling nurses. Notably, their latest project geared toward women in the community achieved over 50% ROI within just 30 days of tenant placement. With a growth rate of 85% since inception, Isaiah aims to expand Carolina Housing Services into every Charlotte neighborhood within the next 24-36 months, followed by broader expansion across the Carolinas. The company holds certifications as a City of Charlotte Minority Business Enterprise and a North Carolina Historically Underutilized Business.
Martin “Mr. Business” White is a highly sought after serial entrepreneur, business consultant, real estate investor, banker, and financial coach. Focusing on financial literacy, business, and real estate. White prides himself in using his God given wisdom and experience to assist individuals with their finance, credit, and banking. Also helping business owners get their businesses off the ground and provide funding. As one of the top businessmen in the state of North Carolina, he supports his clients with precision and grace to help them achieve their goals. You will experience exceptional customer service and total satisfaction working with White. He is passionate about assisting his clients in all aspects of credit repair. Helping several people increase their credit to get auto loans, purchase homes, refinance, etc. As a well-known business titan, he helps numerous people get their own business off the ground, including completing their business paperwork.
As a PR & Digital Marketing Strategist and Creator of the Glambitious Brand for over ten years, Lillie Mae Williams has provided innovative solutions for businesses of all facets. Her publicity work has extended nationally for client placements including ABCnews.com, USA Today, People Magazine, Black Enterprise, BET Networks, Afro Tech and Yahoo News. She has also produced business events in major markets including New York, Atlanta, Miami, New Orleans and Washington, DC. Williams has accomplished a successful track record with businesses across multiple industries including E-Commerce, Tech, Culinary, Entertainment, Personal Development, and Finance. She has also been seen on Netflix, Black Enterprise, TMZ Live, Ebony Magazine, Rolling Out, and NBC 11Alive.
Jeff Witherspoon’s fitness journey truly began as a young athlete at The Citadel where he was a champion track and field athlete. Upon graduation, he began a successful career in the Army as a Field Artillery Officer. While serving multiple tours in Iraq, fitness became his way to cope with the stressors of combat. He enjoyed the way it not only made his body look but how it made him feel. It became his place of release and therapy. Later in his career, he became a certified hand-to-hand combat instructor for the Army. This certification and practice opened him to another form of fitness that he truly enjoyed. After seeing how well fitness allowed Witherspoon to be able to handle high levels of stress in the military, he began encouraging other soldiers to work out to help with PTSD, day-to-day stressors, as well as their overall health and fitness.
Rachel Zwipf is the Owner of Clean Chicks, a dedicated cleaning service in Charlotte. Committed to delivering exceptional service, Zwipf emphasizes effective communication and teamwork as vital to success. She takes pride in building strong relationships with clients and professional partners, ensuring that Clean Chicks thrives in the community. The company offers contract-based and one-time cleaning solutions for both residential and commercial properties, including deep cleaning, maintenance cleaning, postconstruction cleaning, and staffing services. Clean Chicks prioritizes a timely and personalized approach, delivering quality, reliability, and value. Beyond cleaning, the team is passionate about making a difference, actively participating in initiatives that support cancer patients by providing hope and improving their quality of life. Clean Chicks holds several certifications, including North Carolina HUB Minority, North Carolina SBE, and MBE, as well as City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County vendor certifications.
to everyone featured in this year’s edition of Who’s Who In Black Charlotte — you embody the strength and leadership that shape our community!
Don’t miss out on being included next year — nominate yourself or someone making a difference in Charlotte today!
Abram, Carli......................................134
Abubakar, Amina.................................28
Aljuwani, Yasmine.............................134
Allen, DeAnna.....................................80
Andrea, Cayme.................................134
Armstrong, Arkevious........................135
Ashford, Nellie.....................................36
Atkinson, Karena...............................135
Austin, Bella-Giavanni.......................114
Baker II, Michael Tyrone...................135
Baker, Stacy.......................................136
Bedford, Enovia.................................114
Bell, Jarris.........................................136
Bellamy, Veronda...............................136
Bennett, Belinda................................137
Best, Nepherterra..............................137
Bethea, Rhonda...................................92
Bey, Isis.............................................137
Bittle, Felicia........................................81
Black, Gemale...................................138
Bogues, Brittney................................138
Bolton, Tya.........................................138
Boone, Domonique............................139
Bowman, LaTanya.............................139
Britt, Felice Hightower.......................139
Brooks, Elyshia.................................140
Brooks, Thelma.................................140
Brown, Christian................................140
Brown, Kaisha...................................141
Brown, Khary.....................................141
Buford, Bonita.....................................58
Bullock, Nelvia...................................141
Burgess, Angela..................................28
Burkins, Glenn...................................114
Burris, Yulonda..................................142
Burston, Shamanda...........................142
Butler, Malcolm B..............................115
Caldwell, Rhonda................................29
Campbell, Manuel...............................82
Campbell, Willie “Will”.........................29
Carey, Patrick......................................92
Carlisle, Carla A...................................30
Carnegie, Melissa................................83
Carr-Lipscomb, Belinda....................143
Carr, Linda1.........................................42
Carter, LaShaun................................115
Corbett, Shaun..................................144
Cradle, Keith......................................116
Croney, Latonya D..............................52
Cuffee, Marcus..................................145
Cuffee, Trevonne...............................145
Curtis, Mary C....................................116
Daniel, Gina.......................................145
Davenport, Tameran..........................146
Davis, Jay..........................................146
Davis, Zaria.......................................146
Dawson, Doneta................................147
Dawson, Kenya D................................30
Del, Evelyne......................................147
Dew, Aisha.........................................116
Dixon, Dee.........................................117
Douglas, Sparkle.................................51
Drayton, Monifa.................................117
Dumas-Reid, Danielle Elaine............147
Dunbar, Cassandre...........................148
Dunlap, George.................................117
Durham, Ruby....................................118
Ellis, Hendrick......................................93
Emeka, Ijeoma....................................93
Eubanks-Saunders, Tiffany..................94
Evans, LaToya...................................118
Evans, Vickie.....................................148
Fair, Shiricka.....................................148
Farley, Shamar..................................149
Ferebee, Arlene.................................118
Fesperman, Nikelle............................149
Flood, Christa....................................149
Floyd, Shereese................................150
Foxx, Mallory.....................................150
Fraizer, Maritalyn..............................150
Freeman, Louis...................................52
Fuller, Carlos.....................................151
Gaddist, Rondell..................................55
Gaither, Brezandia.............................151
Galloway, Davita................................151
Galloway, Dion...................................152
Gardner, Jonathan.............................152
Garvin, Rod.......................................152
Gaskin-Butler, Vikki T.........................153
Ghartey-Tagoe, Kodwo........................60
Gibson, Jessica.................................153
Graham, Malcolm..............................119
Grier, Centario...................................155
Hamilton, Gigi....................................155
Hamilton, Kendall..............................155
Hands, Ty...........................................119
Haneef, Rasheed...............................156
Cash, John Jr....................................143
Charles, Angela.................................143
Chisholm, Samara.............................144
Clark, Shondale.................................144
Coley, Malcomb.................................115
Colliers, Greg.......................................84
Gibson, Mitch......................................55
Givans, Ebony...................................153
Givans, Edward.................................154
Glover, Howard L..............................154
Glover, Raichelle.................................62
Goddard-Cureton, Natasha................49
Goodwin, Ken....................................154
Hannibal, Shana...............................156
Harris, Patricia...................................119
Harris, Qadira....................................156
Harris, Tony........................................157
Hawkins, Louis....................................64
Haywood, Rhondale............................50
Henderson, Boris J...........................120
Hendricks, Denisha...........................108
Herring, Melvin..................................108
Higginbotham, Joan..........................120
Hill, Crystal L.....................................120
Hillman, Brittany..................................94
Hobbs, Harriet...................................109
Hood, Dasia......................................157
Hoover, Eddie......................................38
Horne, Brittny....................................157
Hughes-Frazier, Tamesha.................158
Ibrahim, Shaza..................................158
Jack, Na’shota Lytle..........................158
Jackson, Juanita Correy.....................159
Jackson, Mitzi....................................159
Jackson, Tony R................................159
Jacobs, Derrick “Fly Ty”....................121
James, Tanya S................................160
Jamison, Jabbar................................160
Jerrell, Mark......................................121
Johnson III, Robert A........................161
Johnson, Charles...............................160
Johnson, George.................................95
Johnson, Leslie....................................95
Johnson, Maureen V..........................161
Johnson, Nicole.................................161
Jones, Cathy......................................109
Jones, Cornell......................................85
Jones, Friday.....................................162
Jones, Karla F....................................162
Jones, Marc.......................................162
Jones, Marcus...................................121
Jones, Nathaniel................................163
Jones, Terrence.................................163
Joyner, Lindsay....................................56
Kee, Portia.........................................163
Kirkland, Stephanie M.......................164
Lambert, Les........................................96
Lawson-Williams, BerNadette...........164
Lewis, Eric...........................................51
Lord, Jahill.........................................164
Luckett, Cheryl.....................................66
Lugo, Dan............................................68
Lyons, Drew.......................................165
Lyons, Joya.......................................165
Machicote, Joseph.............................122
Maloye, Shakieta..............................165
Manning, Will.......................................96
Masunda, Camillya............................166
Matthew, Yolande................................50
May, Monique....................................166
Mayfield, LaWana.............................122
McCall, Deanita.................................166
McFarland, Tino.................................167
McGregor, Myles.................................86
McGriff, Tre’.......................................167
McKnight, Ericka L............................167
McNair, Daryle...................................168
McNeill, Saichelle..............................168
Mike, Hatisha (Tee)............................168
Minott, Laila.......................................169
Mitchell, James.................................122
Moore-Wright, Kimberly.......................70
Morgan, Brian......................................54
Morris-Hansley, Kimberly...................169
Muhammad, Sundari.........................169
Murchison, Duvale.............................170
Nelson, Paul......................................170
Nichols, Sonja P...................................72
Nichols, Tommy.................................170
Nurse, Diamond.................................171
Nurse, Timothy...................................171
O’Quinn, Travis....................................54
Olukeye, Abi......................................171
Orezi, Paula.......................................172
Patterson, Rhonda.............................123
Peek, Rashaan..................................123
Phillips, Ohavia..................................123
Pirtle, Shalanna.................................172
Pressley, Tommie..............................172
Price-Brock, Tomisha.........................110
Prime, Milton........................................97
Proby, Joshua....................................173
Procope, Nakisha..............................173
Puckett, Kristie...................................173
Rankins, Soamoya..............................97
Reed, Dennis.......................................87
Reed, Lynn........................................174
Reese, Catrina...................................174
Rey, Chris..........................................124
Rivens, Tonya....................................124
Roberts, Alicia...................................174
Robinson, Benjamin..........................175
Robinson, Bobby...............................175
Robinson, Christian.............................56
Robinson, Kennet..............................175
Robinson, Renado.............................176
Robinson, Winston..............................88
Roper, Ed............................................31
Ross, Myron......................................176
Roy, Chelley.......................................176
Royster, Andrea Nicole........................53
Rushing, Nikki....................................177
Salter, Wynne....................................177
Sede Nietcho, Eric............................177
Shorty, Erika......................................178
Shufford, Brian.....................................53
Sills III, James H..................................74
Simpkins, April...................................124
Simpson, JT.......................................178
Smith, Keith.......................................125
Smith, Kristerpher................................98
Smith, Marlon....................................178
Smith, Wyatt........................................98
Sneed, Stephanie................................76
Spencer, Taylor D..............................179
Stewart, Kristen...................................31
Stinson, ZaNia...................................179
Stuart Jefferson, Vanessa..................179
Terrell, Krista......................................125
Terry, Cheryse.....................................89
Thomas-Stoddard, Rose.....................99
Thomas, Ednethia.............................180
Thomas, Rita....................................180
Thompson, Ron...................................32
Thornton, Keith....................................49
Thrower, David..................................180
Touchstone, Jerome..........................181
Turner, Thomas.................................181
Varnado, Ashley...................................99
Veale, Troy L......................................181
Wade, Kevin......................................182
Waites-Thierry, Takiesha...................100
Walker-Howard, Mary..........................32
Walters, André...................................182
Ware, Leslie.......................................182
Washington, Stephanie.....................183
Watermann, Fannie.............................40
Weekly, Anthony..................................48
Wheeler, Angela................................183
White, Isaiah......................................183
White, Martin.....................................184
White, Terri L......................................125
Williams, Lillie Mae............................184
Williams, Renee...................................33
Williams, Shante................................126
Wilson, Dontá L...................................48
Winston II, Braxton............................126
Witherspoon, Jeff...............................184
Woods, Rochelle....... .........................110
Zwipf, Rachel.....................................185
At the core of our purpose—to build better lives and communities—are the values that guide us to be intentional about diversity, equity, and inclusion. We do the work every day to diversify our leadership, empower all teammates, fight for the opportunities we all deserve, and support organizations like Who’s Who In Black and their mission to focus the celebration and elevation of black culture, black achievement and black people.