Generation Next: Michigan Chronicle celebrates 40 Under 40

By Barnhill, Rian J

Proquest LLC

The Michigan Chronicle 40 Under 40 Award identifies and awards young leaders making decisions that will ultimately equip Detroit to compete and thrive in the global market. We received over 100 nominations. Our esteemed selection committee checked references and debated merits before identifying a new cadre of emerging leaders who deserved to be recognized.

I am honored to introduce the 2013 Michigan Chronicle 40 Under 40 honorees. These hardworking individuals are committed to the city of Detroit and stand in opposition to the often talked about "brain drain." They come from varying professional backgrounds including the arts, engineering, medicine, education, business and politics. They demonstrate having sound values and strong moral character.

At the Michigan Chronicle, we are committed to engaging a diverse community and highlighting the outstanding members of our readership. Please join us Friday, October 25, at the Charles H. Wright Museum as we celebrate the success of the 2013 class. For tickets or mre information, please visit michiganchronicle.com.

Tamekia N. Ashford

Public Relations Consultant

Tamekia N. Ashford is a public relations consultant with more than 16 years across the corporate, agency and government sector. Some of her career highlights include providing media relations for The Children's Center of Wayne County's Foster Care Awareness Month; managing community relations for former Detroit City Council member Alberta Tinsley-Talabi; creating a winning business plan and video for metro Detroit's first "Green" McDonald's"; managing the National Urban League Conference interviews with White House staff for President George W. Bush; hometown publicity for Chrysler Jeep Superstores, executive positioning for Molina Healthcare of Michigan; and event management for Betty Crocker's Recipes of the Soul Contest.

Ashford is president of the National Black Public Relations Society, Detroit Chapter, a member of the National Association of Black Journalists, and is active with Women in Communications and Public Relations Society of America.

She is a contributing writer for Hour, DBusiness, Ambassador and B.L.A.C. magazines as well as "Who's Who in Black Cincinnati" and "Who's Who in Black Detroit." She is also a recipient of the 2013 Michigan Chronicle's 40 Under 40 Award. She is a graduate of Wilberforce University and Cass Technical High School.

Lloyd L. Banks, III

Chief Executive Officer, LB3 Management

Lloyd L. Banks, III, is chief executive officer of his own business consulting firm, LB3 Management. The firm specializes in integrated business planning, business and fund development, nonprofit capacity building and strategic relationship building. Banks also holds a 50% share in Concentric Global Initiative (CGI) as managing partner and chief strategist. CGI is a strategic think tank in the areas of education, strategic partnerships, and community organizing and outreach.

Banks has been the recipient of many professional and civic awards including "Who's Who in Black Detroit 4th Edition" and the Michigan Chronicle's 2009 Men of Excellence recipient. He serves on numerous nonprofit boards and hold memberships with several organizations.

He is most proud of his faith in God. The eldest of eight children, he credits his close-nit family with much of his success. Besides his mother, he is particularly grateful for his grandfather's influence, who not only was his pastor but his spiritual guide.

Banks received a Bachelor of Science degree in Administration from Central Michigan University and is currently pursuing a Master of Science degree in Administration. In his spare time he enjoys exercise, reading, playing golf and speaking to young people. And soon he will add author to his resume as he completes his first book to be released in the spring of 2014. Banks is married to Jennifer Stewart Banks, PhD candidate at Eastern Michigan University. They reside in West Bloomfield.

Austin Black

Founder, City Living Detroit

Austin Black II is the founder of City Living Detroit, a full-service real estate brokerage that is headquartered in Detroit's thriving Midtown neighborhood. His firm specializes in properties located in Detroit with a focus on downtown, the growing riverfront, the Cultural Center and the city's historic neighborhoods.

His perspective on urban redevelopment, drive to stay on top of the latest industry trends, and passion for his hometown have earned him the respect and adoration of a city and its leadership.

Austin has been the recipient of several awards and honors. In 2010 he was recognized by Realtor magazine as one of 30 Up and Coming Realtors Under 30 in the nation. Crain's Detroit Business named him to their Dream Board of Directors. He was named to the first Crain's Detroit Business 20 in Their 20s list and D:Business 30 in Their 30s.

He is also an active member of the National Association of Realtors, Michigan Association of Realtors, Greater Metropolitan Association of Realtors and the Grosse Pointe Board of Realtors.

Marlita Blackman

President, DMC Worldwide Advertising

Advertising and marketing are in her blood. At the age of 17 Marlita Blackman owned and operated Just Communications, a very successful paging and cellular phone store located in Detroit. As evidenced by her ability to successfully nurture the company, Blackman's creative and strategic marketing and advertising ideas grew and sustained the business for six years. Imaginative and innovative concepts began to flow even more as she completed a communication program at Wayne State University, graduating with a degree in Mass Media Communications.

A short time later at the age of 20, she was hired as the marketing director for Mammoth Video Stores in two locations in the Michigan and Ohio markets. She competed with Blockbuster, the largest video store in the U.S. at the time, and improved membership sales and increased the overall profits. Later, she was employed by Visteon as a marketing analyst, and eventually ventured into radio advertising sales. After an extended, successful career in radio advertising sales with national radio broadcasting affiliates, she launched Direct Media Connection, known today as DMC Worldwide.

DMC Worldwide is a full-service multicultural marketing and advertising agency created out of Blackman's desire to offer clients a complete campaign package that could include print, radio, Web design, social media, events, and television, and based on the client's multicultural goals. Her goal has never been to sell the client, but to make every client a spirit of influence within their target consumers.

Torya Blanchard

Owner, Rodin and Good Girls Go To Paris Grepes

Torya Blanchard is a Detroit native who moved to Paris in 1998 as an au pair to look after two children She later moved back to the US and obtained a degree in French from Wayne State University and landed a job as a French teacher at Consortium High School, a Detroit charter school. She taught for five years before pursuing her dream to open a creperie in Detroit.

The current Good Girls location is now a 2,000 sq. foot space located on Woodward next to the DIA at the Park Shelton. She also owns and operates Good Girls Deli located at the Plante Moran Building in Southfield. She is currently overseeing construction of the Good Girls in Grosse Pointe Park scheduled to open in June.

Nicole Brown

Community and Content Manager, Excellent Schools Detroit

Nicole Brown is the Communications and Partnerships manager with Excellent Schools Detroit (ESD), a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring that every Detroit child has an excellent education from the beginning to career by 2020. Brown is responsible for managing digital communications, talent development programs and cultivating strategic partnerships. She also manages community outreach and engagement activities.

Prior to joining ESD, Brown was the Communications and Outreach coordinator for Midtown Detroit, Inc's. Woodward Corridor Initiative (WCI), a program of Living Cities. While there, she was responsible for developing and managing communications for the $22 million dollar initiative. She also managed community engagement projects for Midtown Detroit, Inc. including the Ml Rail Transit Oriented Development Plan, the North End Strategic Investment Plan and the Whole Foods store development.

Brown received the 2012 MarCom Gold Award for her development of the WCI website and annual report. She has dedicated her life to serving Detroit both professionally and civically. A devoted volunteer, she has served on numerous boards and committees including Boys Hope Girls Hope of Detroit, Community Development Advocates of Detroit, Declare Detroit, Detroit Jobs Alliance, Michigan Opera Theatre, Detroit Symphony Orchestra and World Economic Forum.

She resides in Detroit and is a member of Triumph Church.

David Alexander Bullock

Reverend, Greater St. Matthew Baptist Church

David Alexander Bullock is gifted. He is a teacher, lecturer, pastor, artist and social commentator. He is a graduate of Morehouse College and received a Master's of Arts in Philosophy from Wayne State University in 2003.

He has served as an adjunct college professor in Michigan and Illinois. He has served as president of the Highland Park NAACP and as the president of the Detroit Chapter of Rainbow PUSH and the state of Michigan coordinator. Under his leadership the organization's brand was expanded across the state of Michigan and nationally as he organized campaigns against violence and the controversial emergency manager law.

Rev. Bullock is the founder and national spokesperson for the Change Agent Consortium, a national coalition of faith, labor, civil rights and activist citizens. He has appeared on MSNBC's "The Ed Show," "The Rachel Maddow Show" and Russia Today's (RT) "The Big Picture." He has also been featured in USA Today, the New York Times and blogs for The Huffington Post.

Dana L. Davis

Staffing Services Manager, Philips Service Industries, Inc.

Dana L. Davis is Staffing Services manager for Phillips Service Industries, Inc. (PSI) headquartered in Livonia where she is responsible for developing recruitment and selection strategies company-wide. Prior to her role at PSI, Dana was Recruiting & Diversity manager at the Detroit-based law firm of Butzel Long. While she has had other experience in sales, marketing, logistics and education, her HR work has been recognized in various local publications from Detroit Legal News, Corp! magazine and the HAP Wise Woman magazine.

Davis is a current board member for the Detroit Society of Human Resource Management, the Michigan Diversity Council, and the University of Michigan Black Alumni Association. She was presented with a Corp! Magazine Diversity Award in 2010, and the Detroit YWCA presented her with the ATHENA Young Professional Leadership Award in 2013.

She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Spanish, a secondary teaching certificate from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor and a master's degree in Management with a concentration in Marketing from Walsh College.

Jasmin DeForrest

Special Events Director, The Parade Company

"This Pisces is an aspiring businesswoman who loves to help her dad operate their stores." Those were the words written at age five in her dance studio's program. Now a Wayne State University graduate, she has worked for The Parade Company for over seven years as Special Events director. She produces multiple marketing and branding events and is the lead event director on event consulting projects for Cornerstone Schools, Detroit Grand Prix and Detroit RiverFront Conservancy.

DeForrest is program manager for the Skillman Design contest. In 2010, she launched the organization's first youth arts summer camp. In 2013, three of her programs won Gold IFEA Pinnacle Awards.

In 2007, she launched WordPlay Inc. an online novelty T-shirt company with positive messaging. She also believes in "family first" and enjoys mentoring younger family members with a strong yet loving support system. She also proudly accepts "The Best Sister in the Universe" title given by her younger brother.

Ethan Dunn, Esq.

Partner, Maxwell Dunn, PLC

Ethan Dunn is a partner at Maxwell Dunn, PLC. His practice focuses on business law, bankruptcy, business restructuring and civil litigation. He serves as general counsel for several small businesses including for-profit companies, ecclesiastical corporations, churches and non-profit organizations. He currently serves as co-chair of the Federal Bar Association Bankruptcy Practice Group and is a member of several professional and community organizations.

Prior to joining Maxwell Dunn, Dunn completed a post-graduate fellowship with the Michigan Legal Aid & Defender Association where he represented indigent clients in various civil matters.

He is a graduate of Case Western Reserve University Law School in Cleveland. During law school he was awarded Best Oral Advocate in Appellate Advocacy and competed nationally with the school's champion Mock Trial Team.

Dunn earned his bachelor's degree in Investment Finance with distinction from Wayne State University. He is an active member of Detroit World Outreach church. He enjoys traveling and competing in triathlons. He was born and raised in Detroit and still lives here with his wife, Meagan.

Tara Edwards

Reporter, WXYZ

Tara Edwards joined WXYZ in June 2011. She was born in St. Louis, Missouri but spent her middle school and high school years in metro Detroit. She graduated from West Bloomfield High School and University of Michigan - Ann Arbor.

After school, she got her start in Flint, Michigan. She worked behind the scenes at WJRT and went on to report and anchor at WSMH and WNEM. In 2007, she moved to Pittsburgh where she worked as a reporter/fill-in anchor at WTAE.

While at WTAE, Edwards got a chance to meet many remarkable people and cover stories of a lifetime. In 2009, she reported on the Steelers Super Bowl win as fans celebrated in the streets and just a few months later she did it again as the Penguins won the Stanley Cup. Edwards points out that she was rooting for the Red Wings. That same year, she found herself surrounded by riot police on live TV covering a protest during the G-20 Summit in Pittsburgh.

Though Tara Edwards made many friends in Pennsylvania, she is ecstatic to be back home and thrilled to be part of the WXYZ family. When she is not working, she enjoys kickboxing, pilates and reading. She spends a lot of time with her family.

Michael Griffie

Principal, Cornerstone Charter Health High School

In May of 2012, Michael Griffie became the founding principal of the nationally recognized Cornerstone Health High School. His vision for the future of American public education has garnered him well deserved attention in educational circles. Cornerstone Health High School uses an innovative blended learning model that leverages a rigorous online curriculum with a targeted approach to face-to-face instruction. All students have an online component to their instruction, allowing them to work at their own pace.

Mr. Griffie has also been instrumental in securing and advancing community partnerships with Whole Foods, the Detroit Medical Center and Beaumont Health Systems. In 2012, he was honored by Teach For America by receiving their Transformational Change Award.

He resides in Detroit with his 2-year-old son, Ethan. He is pursing a law degree from Thomas M. Cooley Law School and will be graduating in May.

Amber Hay

Corporate Associate, Honigman Miller Schwartz and Conn LLP

Amber Avion Hay is an attorney in the corporate department of Honigman Miller Schwartz and Cohn LLP. She assists with publicly and privately held company mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, business formation, corporate restructuring, debt financing, information technology outsourcing and other corporate matters. While in law school, she was a summer associate at Honigman and earned the firm's Jack Miller Scholarship, which is named after one of the firm's founding partners.

Hay grew up in Detroit, went to Detroit Renaissance High School, and received both her undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Michigan. She decided to practice law in Detroit so that she could "do her part" in the city's revitalization. She is passionate about community economic development and mentoring youth.

Being a former college athlete, Hay spends much of her free time mentoring student-athletes through the University of Michigan M-Pact student athlete program and as a volunteer with Winning Futures, a youth leadership program. She also regularly attends career days at Detroit schools and is interested in finding other volunteer opportunities.

Rudy Hobbs

State Representatives, Thirty-fifth District

Rudy Hobbs is a rising star in Michigan politics.

Raised on Detroit's east side and a graduate of Southfield-Lathrup High School, Hobbs attended Michigan State University receiving his bachelor's and master's degrees in Education.

After teaching in Detroit Public Schools, he joined the district staff of U.S. Congressman Sander Levin, eventually serving as Levin's Michigan director. He also served on the Southfield School Board and as an education and urban economic policy advisor in the i Granholm administration.

Hobbs has ascended to leadership in every position he has held. As a first term representative, he was appointed assistant Democratic Floor Leader and named Legislator of the Year by the Michigan Municipal League for his fight to restore jobs and strengthen our communities. He received more votes than any other state representative elected in 2012, and his colleagues appointed him Democratic Floor Leader, the second highest-ranking representative in the caucus.

Rudy Hobbs is a candidate for the open 14th Congressional seat. He is considered a front runner, endorsed by Congressman Sander Levin, former Governor Jennifer Granholm, former Lieutenant Governor John Cherry and key labor and business organizations.

Rudy and his wife, Dedra, live in Southfield with their three daughters.

Adam Hollier

Liaison for Mayor Bing, City of Detroit

Adam Hollier was born in Detroit and raised on the North End, where he and his wife, Krystle, are restoring a formerly vacant home. He is the son of Carl (retired Detroit firefigher) and Jacquelene Hollier (retired social worker). He is a graduate of Renaissance High School. He earned his bachelor's degree from Cornell University in Industrial and Labor Relations, where he played varsity football and was a decathlete. His commitment to service includes volunteer firefighting and disaster response. While working in Biloxi, Miss. post-Katrina, he was inspired to pursue a master's in Urban Planning at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. After graduating in 2009, he returned home with creative ways to fight blight and promote economic development.

While serving as Senator Johnson's chief of staff (2009-2012), Hollier was instrumental in major pieces of legislation: Regional Transit Authority, Utility Shut-Off Protections for seniors and the partial repeal of the Drivers Responsibility Fee. As the mayor's liaison to the City Council, he shepherded the creation of the Public Lighting Authority, a $180 million investment in neighborhoods. He recently won the primary election for City Council in District 5. In his free time the enjoys Brazilian jiu-jitsu and coaching youth football.

Evette Hollins

Urban Initiatives Manager, Detroit Regional Chamber

Evette Hollins is Urban Initiatives manager at the Detroit Regional Chamber where she is responsible for managing the Chamber's urban strategy. In this role she fosters relationships with Detroit-based organizations and programs with an emphasis on small business and entrepreneurship. She works closely with Detroit government officials on economic development advocacy issues and manages programming for the annual Detroit Policy Conference.

Before joining the Chamber, Hollins was a senior financial analyst at Comerica Bank where she performed analysis on a $50 billion portfolio and took on a range of projects dealing with profit enhancement, risk profiling and strategic planning.

Hollins is also very committed to her involvement in the community. A few of the organizations she works with are the United Way for Southeast Michigan, the Belle Isle Conservancy, and Boys Hope Girls Hope.

In 2013, she was named one of Crain's Detroit Business "20 in their 20's." She earned bachelor's in Business Administration in finance and corporate strategy from the University of Michigan'sRoss School of Business. She resides in downtown Detroit and looks forward to being a change agent in the resurgence of Detroit.

Tupac Hunter

Senator, Fifth District

In November 2010, Tupac A. Hunter was overwhelmingly re-elected to a second term in the Michigan Senate representing the 5th District, which comprises northwest Detroit, Dearborn Heights and Inkster. He was unanimously elected by his colleagues in the Democratic Caucus to serve as the Minority Floor Leader for the 2011-14 legislative session. He previously served as the Assistant Democratic Leader during his first term in the Michigan Senate (2007-2010). Prior to being elected to the Michigan Senate, he served in the Michigan House of Representatives (2003-2006).

Senator Hunter is recognized as a strong leader in the areas of banking and financial services, consumer protection, criminal justice, economic development, education and ethics in government. Specifically, he has been recognized for his advocacy for financial literacy and fair lending practices and his efforts to enact legislation that would require insurance companies to cover treatments for children with autism spectrum disorder.

Senator Hunter holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Urban Studies and Public Policy from Morehouse College and a Master of Public Administration Degree from Oakland University.

He resides in northwest Detroit with his wife, RaShawn, and their two sons, Jalen and Josiah. The family worships at Grace Bible Chapel in Detroit.

Brandon A. Jessup

Chief Executive Officer, Michigan Forward Urban Affairs Group

Brandon A. Jessup is the CEO of Michigan Forward Urban Affairs Group, a political consulting company that develops and advocates for progressive public policy. His role as a progressive political strategist has built bridges across race, ethnicity and class for strong communities across Michigan.

Jessup found his penchant for politics while earning his bachelor's degree in Computer Information Systems at Eastern Michigan University. As a campus leader at EMU, he led mobilization and advocacy efforts to create a Student Bill of Rights and a University Campus Creed. In 2011, his alma mater honored him as an Outstanding Young Alumnus, an award shared by EMU Alumni such as former Secretary of Transportation Rodney Slater. Jessup has been recognized for his leadership by former Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm and current Governor Rick Snyder. His work has been showcased in print and Web publications including the Michigan Chronicle as a 2012 Man of Excellence.

Recently, Brandon Jessup has served as African-American Vote Outreach director for Organizing for America Michigan and the 2013 Presidential Inauguration Committee. He is currently an at-large member of the Michigan State Democratic Central Committee. He was born in New Orleans and raised in Detroit. He is the son of John and Mary Tuggle.

LaDarrel 'Saxappeal' Johnson

Saxophonist/Recording Artist, Saxappeal Detroit LLC

Born and raised in Detroit, LaDarrel "Saxappeal" Johnson is a rising saxophonist who has been playing since the age of seven. Now . a Grammy-nominated recording artist and a 2013 Crain's Detroit Business "20 In Their 20's" award recipient, this ambitious artist has traveled from coast to coast, performing from intimate venues in Detroit to large scale events from Los Angeles, Atlanta and New York to Europe.

For his first time in New York, Johnson performed at Carnegie Hall at the age of 17. He has been performing with Koch Records recording artist Dwele since 2005 and is also currently touring with R&B artist K'Jon and Grammy-nominated indie soul artist Eric Roberson.

In addition to writing and producing his own music, LaDarrell Johnson is a strategic brand including endorsements from Sax Dakota (www.saxdakota.com), NovaBrown Brand accessories (www.NovaBrown.com), Cintron Energy Drink (www.cintronbeveragegroup.com), Harry Hartmann's Fiberreeds (www.Fiberreeds.com), Drake Mouthpieces, (www.drakemouthpieces.com) and Applied Microphone Technology (www.appliedmic. com).

With focus and determination, he uses his horn to tell stories and celebrate the gift of music through love. In efforts to form his own style, which he calls "SaxSoul," his music is diverse with a blend of jazz, hip-hop, soul and R&B.

Dichondra Johnson

Education Analyst, Michigan Veteran Affairs Agency

Dichondra R. Johnson is currently the lead education analyst with the Michigan Veteran Affairs Agency and Lansing Community College Business and Economics Department faculty.

Throughout her career she has held positions in marketing/outreach, government/legislative relations, and community affairs with the Michigan Department of Community Health; Michigan House of Representatives; U.S. Dept. of Commerce, U.S. Census Bureau; St. John Providence Health System; Cobo Center; and the University Musical Society, University of Michigan.

Johnson served on the Travelers Aid Society of Metropolitan Detroit Board and as chairperson from 2009 to 2011. She is currently the chairperson of the Michigan Political Leadership Program Alumni Network and on the International Preparatory Academy at McDowell Board.

She is a delegate, elected by her faculty peers, for the Michigan Education Association and National Education Association Representative Assemblies.

Among the recognition received throughout her career, Dichondra Johnson was selected by the Lansing Regional Sister City Commission to represent Greater Lansing in Otsu, Japan in 2011.

She received her MBA in Marketing & Global Business from Davenport University, Bachelor of Science in Arts Administration & Marketing from Eastern Michigan University and is a 2011 Michigan Political Leadership Program fellow.

Jason Johnson

Owner, Bob's Classic Kicks

As a young boy, Jason Johnson's mother knew that a trip to the mall would end with her buying him a new pair of sneakers. By his early twenties, he had accumulated enough gym shoes to open a store, so that became his goal. Armed with a vision, Johnson created Bob's Classic Kicks. He wanted the name of the store to be timeless. He wanted a name that would cater to everyone regardless of ethnicity. "Bob" is not trendy or restrictive, much like the business itself.

Recently, Bob's Classic Kicks partnered with Detroit Public Schools and agreed to give a pair of sneakers to all public high school students who attended school on Count Day. Johnson explains that the intent wasn't to bribe the children, but encourage them. The proud graduate of Martin Luther King Jr. High School is committed to doing his part to make Detroit a better place, he is using his gift and passion to be a part of the solution. He is not done with achieving goals; he may expand the product line or expand the store's territory.

Dr. Curtis Lewis

Principal, Henry Ford Academy

Dr. Curtis Lewis is founding principal of Henry Ford Academy: Elementary School, a public charter school serving students in grades K-5 in Detroit's greater Boston-Edison area. An accomplished urban educator, Dr. Lewis came to HFA: Elementary School from Teach for America - Detroit, where he was a manager of Teacher Leadership Development. During that time, he was also a visiting instructor at the University of Michigan and a contracted Student Services Specialist with the Lansing School District.

Dr. Lewis earned his bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Michigan State University. He was a 5th grade teacher, middle school math teacher, and an alternative education teacher at the secondary level. After seven years of teaching, he returned to school to obtain his PhD from Michigan State University. During his time as a graduate student, Dr. Lewis taught classes at Michigan State University, coordinated an intervention program for first-time youth offenders, and was director of a mentoring program for young males of color.

Jason Malone

Co-Founder, Midnight Golf

Jason Malone is communications coordinator in Public Affairs and Community Relations at Charter One Bank in Michigan. In this capacity, he assists in the execution of Charter One's signature community programs and initiatives, oversees coordination of colleague volunteer opportunities, and manages the data analysis for the bank's adherence to CRA goals and compliance. Malone joined Charter One Bank in January 2008 from Quicken Loans where he was a mortgage banker.

Malone is active in the community and is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity, United Way of Southeastern Michigan's Leadership Next, Detroit Regional Chamber's Fusion, Detroit Young Professionals and Legacy Associates Foundation. He is the co-founder of " the Midnight Golf Program, a unique program that uses the game of golf as a backdrop to teach life skills and help young adults to thrive academically and personally.

Since 2001, more than 300 young people ages 17 to 22 have completed Midnight Golf with the majority of participants enrolled in colleges and universities throughout the country. Today, the program has grown to include 125 participants per year. During the nine-month program, participants meet with mentors and PGA professionals for biweekly sessions that include a life skills segment, group dinner and golf lessons.

Midnight Golf provides training that produces positive peer relationships, improved social and decision-making skills, increased self-sufficiency and expanded life choices including a focus on college or vocational training. Taught by PGA professionals, golf is incorporated into the program to teach the importance of following rules, appropriate dress, courtesy and respect for self and others. Malone's involvement in Midnight Golf has come full circle as he now serves as a full-time mentor. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications from Loyola University Chicago.

Jennifer Matthews

Chief Executive Officer, Lush Yummies

Jennifer Matthews's achievements come natural as " she originates from a strong line of successful women and business owners. Her healthy dessert company, Lush Yummies, has grown by leaps and bounds and are soon to be on the shelves of Whole Foods Detroit and Whole Foods Rochester. She has been recognized for her outstanding strides by Fox 2 News, the Michigan Chronicle, Focus: HOPE Entrepreneurship Program and more.

Matthews recently founded The BUILDER, a health retreat which helps others to build a healthy mind, a healthy body and a healthy financial foundation. The retreats take place on beautiful campgrounds in Northern Michigan where participants are taken out of their comfort zone and are given the opportunity to build themselves up.

Matthews graduated with s bachelor's degree from Howard University and a baking certification from Le Cordon Bleu Miami. She served as vice president of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority at Howard and is still very active in the community. She has completed various entrepreneurship development programs including the D:HIVE. She currently serves as the development director for Payne-Pulliam School.

Shanika Owens

Policy Analyst, James Tate Office

"Expect the best from yourself, and you will meet your expectations." Shanika A. Owens is quite familiar with this quote. As a native Detroiter who attended Detroit Public Schools, she continuously challenges herself and often exceeds the expectations of others.

A sharp, astute public policy professional with a passion for the city of Detroit, Owens has made great strides in her career. Her tireless work ethic took her from being an intern with Detroit City Council President Charles Pugh to his director of Policy & Legislative Affairs within two years. To her colleagues, she exudes the skill set of a seasoned veteran.

Remaining civically engaged outside of the confines of city hall, Owens is a staple in her community. She serves on the West Village Association Board and is an active member of Central Baptist Church in Detroit. She earned a bachelor's degree in Economics from Michigan State University in 2010. She enjoys public service and has cultivated a keen interest in law. She currently assists Councilman James Tate as a policy analyst and will begin the pursuit of her juris doctor in the fall of 2014.

Bunia Parker

Principal, Summit Commercial, LLC

Bunia Parker is a principal at Summit Commercial. Prior to forming this company, he worked as a broker for five years, specializing in office and retail. During his career, he has had a vast amount of experience with landlord and tenant representation, as well as the disposition and acquisition of properties. He provides valuable insight to municipalities, nonprofits, courts and school districts during facility planning and implementation. He also has vast experience assisting bank asset managers with the successful disposition of their REO properties.

Parker was the director of leasing for approximately 2.25 million square feet in the Central Business District of Detroit for over two years. His portfolio included the First National Building (800,000sf), The Penobscot Building (1,000,000sf), and Cadillac Towers (450,000sf). He was also responsible for leasing the excess space in the new Federal Reserve Bank building. He sits on various nonprofit boards, so his insight into how nonprofit organizations operate and how they function within space provides his clients with a unique perspective to maximize operational efficiency in their current and/or proposed projects, while seeking to minimize costs. He is the current vice chairman of the board for Travelers Aid Society of Metropolitan Detroit. He also sits on the retail advisory board of the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation and is the president of the Renaissance Alumni Association. He graduated from Duke University with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and African Studies.

Shani J. Penn

Chief of Staff-Office of the Emergency Manager, City of Detroit

Shani J. Penn accepted the number two decisionmaking position in Detroit in April 2013. She brings dynamic leadership and over 12 years of corporate experience to her position of chief of staff to emergency manager Kevyn Orr. Some of the key initiatives she is leading in this role are blight removal and the city's solid waste restructuring.

Previously, Penn served as dealer relations manager at Chrysler Financial Corporation (CFC) where she was the liaison between the dealership owners and Chrysler. Working for CFC gave her the opportunity to work in both New York and Chicago in various management positions which helped her build the skills to begin serving in her prior role as chief of staff to Detroit City Councilman James Tate at the age of 32 Shani Penn is a graduate of Western Michigan University, active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., a 2010 Congressional Black Caucus Boot Camp alumnae, and 2011 Michigan Political Leadership alumnae. She is a member of the Southwest Solutions Housing Board and the Detroit Institute of Arts Authority Board.

Dr. Dana Rice

Research Associate, Wayne State University School of Medicine

Dana Rice, Dr.P.H., is a Research Associate at Wayne State University School of Medicine in the Department of Family Medicine & Public Health Sciences. Dr. Rice's expertise is in applied public health practice and translational research in health disparities, HIV/STD prevention, and health promotion and wellness.

Dr. Rice directs the HIV/STD Prevention Program in the Wayne County Jails, providing comprehensive counseling and testing services to inmates. She also manages the Bridges to Equity Project at WSUSOM, a federally-funded initiative to engage medical and public heath students to work collaboratively on community based projects to reduce health disparities.

She holds a BS in Biology from Clark-Atlanta University, an MS in Health Services Research from Wayne State University School of Medicine, and a Doctorate of Public Health in Social and Behavioral Health from Boston University School of Public Health. In 2009, she received an "Outstanding New Researcher in HIV Prevention" award from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). She also serves on the Executive Board of Teen H.Y.P.E and the Editorial Board of the Michigan Journal of Public Health.

Dan Ringo, JD

General Manager, Detroit Public Schools, Sodexo On-Site Services Solutions

Dan Ringo is a distinguished United States Air Force veteran and recognized community leader from his work in leadership positions both in the private and public sector.

His leadership posts have included executive director of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 324, City of Detroit Historic District Commissioner, DPS Bond Committee Member, and president of the board for Edmonson Academy Charter School. Currently he serves on the board of the Aisha Shule Academy.

Ringo currently works for Sodexo North America as the general manager for Sodexo's account with the Detroit Public Schools. His span of control involves managing custodial, engineering grounds and maintenance operations.

Heholds an Associate of Applied Science from the Community College of the Air Force as well as a Bachelor of Arts (magna cum laude) from Wayne State University and a juris doctor from Wayne State University Law School. His motto in every venture, personal or professional, is "Hard work, dedication, prayers, belief and a good team are the key ingredients to deliver much success in all things."

Tony R. Saunders II

Emergency Manager, Benton Harbor

Tony R. Saunders II currently serves as the emergency manager in the city of Benton Harbor. Prior to his appointment, he served as an advisor to the Michigan Department of Treasury, providing financial and strategic planning services to the city of Highland Park. While at the City of Highland Park he collaborated with the mayor and City Council to convert a projected general fund operating deficit of $1.3 million into a general fund operating surplus of approximately $850k through spending reductions, departmental restructurings and proper budget monitoring.

Prior to his role with the Michigan Department of Treasury, Saunders served as chief of staff to Detroit City Council member Saunteel Jenkins. While in that position he lobbied and assisted in the development of alternative strategies to help save the City of Detroit an immediate $61.4 milliion in pension payments for FY 11-12.

He also served as senior advisor to Detroit City Council President Charles Pugh. As an advisor to the Council President, he provided input and insight on major contracts, budget, pension, and labor issues. He led the coordination of the Pension Reform Working Group and the selection of the group's actuarial advisor. This group uncovered approximately $1.9 billion in losses in the Detroit's retirement system over the last 30 years.

Tony, a native Detroiter, is a graduate of the University of Michigan - Ann Arbor. He and his wife had their first child, Brooke, in April.

Kamal Smith

Playwright/Actor/Producer, Lynn's Boys Media, LLC

Writer, director and actor are just a few words that describe Kamal Smith. He is the writer and director of the hit stage plays "Rules to the Game" and "Pictures on the Mantle" as well as other upcoming stage plays and featurve length films. After graduating from Wilberforce University, he quickly made his mark in the entertainment world by starring in three hit plays, acting in several commercials, becoming an on-air radio personality, and landing his first role as a stage director in 2006

In 2007 Smithl and brother Diallo Smith formed Lynn's Boys Media LLC to pursue a dream of using their gifts to create life-transforming entertainment experiences. Born and raised on Detroit's east side, the two brothers always aim to create productions that connect with everyday people in an authentic way.

Lynn's Boys Media's mission is to offer a variety of entertainment experiences that change the way people see life.

Solomon Spann III

Integrated Marketing Specialist, Radio One

An integrated marketing specialist with Radio One Detroit, Solomon Spann III is responsible for generating revenue on several platforms including spot, digital and special events to create positive ROI for metro Detroit businesses. As a mutlimillion dollar seller, he aims to meet his clients' needs and marketing objectives.

Spann has over 20 years experience in broadcast media. He started his career in Columbia, South Carolina at WWDM-FM as an on-air personality, promotions assistant and production specialist. In 2005 he relocated to Detroit. Some of his career highlights include being selected into the President's Club, an honor given to the highest ranking salesperson in the Radio One Detroit cluster, and the National Association of Broadcasting Executive Management Training Program where he received one of only eight fellowships giving nationally at Georgetown University. In his spare time he enjoys volunteering for such philanthropic organizations as UNCF, BUF of Michigan and Infinite Scholars, among others.

Solomon Spann is chairman of the board of Commonwealth Community Developmental Academy, a graduate of Georgia Southern University and a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Incorporated.

Yvelette Stines

Children's Book Author, Vernon the Vegetable Man

Yvelette Stines is a writer and educator. Her work has been published in Essence, Heart and Soul, Uptown, Ambassador, Hispanic Executive Quarterly, the Michigan Chronicle, Jones magazine, Healthy You Now, The Grio, and Mind Body Green to name a few. She has worked on campaigns for TV and film including Variance Films, 40 Acres and a Mule, Pursuit of a Green Planet Productions, TNT, OWN (Oprah Winfrey Network) and Chene Park. As a health advocate, her book "Vernon the Vegetable Man" encourages children to choose healthy lifestyle habits. Her blog, "Calming Corners," motivates readers to live a calm and healthy lifestyle.

Stines teaches classes for children and adults aligned with writing, health and wellness. She also appeared on Fox 2 Detroit sharing healthy snacks for kids. Her writing has led her to speak at many conferences and cover events including "Blogging While Brown in LA" and New York Fashion Week. She has interviewed such notables as Spike Lee, Jalen Rose, Vivian Green, Jeanette Jenkins, Dr. Oz and Betty White. The Association of Health Care Journalists awarded Stines an Ethnic Media Fellowship to Health Journalism. She continues to live her dream through writing and wellness and encourages others to do the same.

Marlowe Stoudamire

Chief of Staff, The Skillman Foundation

As chief of staff at The Skillman Foundation, Marlowe Stoudamire acts as the primary liaison for the president and CEO with staff and outside constituents of the foundation, advancing the executive agenda and work flow out of the president's office. His core responsibilities includes supervision of communications, knowledge management, talent development and performance evaluation. Before joining The Skillman Foundation, Stoudamire spent seven years at Henry Ford Health System (HFHS), most recently as project director of strategic business development.

Stoudamire is a native Detroiter driven by a desire to have a positive impact on the community where he grew up. He graduated from Cass Technical High School, holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Wayne State University, and earned a Master of Science in International Administration from Central Michigan University.

Marlowe Stoudamire was named to the 2012 Crain's Detroit Business "40 Under 40" list and was a 2013 American Marshall Memorial fellow for the German Marshall Fund of the United States. He serves on the board of the nonprofit Detroit Harmonic He is married and has two children.

Annis Stubbs

Executive Director, Teach For America, Detroit

A Detroit native, Annis Stubbs was inspired by her experience in the Detroit Public Schools to become a teacher.

After earning her degree at Michigan State, she joined Teach For America as a corps member in New York. Later, she returned to Michigan State to obtain her PhD in Curriculum, Teaching and Educational Policy.

Stubbs' investment in the city of Detroit also led her to become invested in numerous initiatives since her return. She has participated in the Future Teachers for Social Justice program and currently serves as a board member for the Public School Academies of Detroit and the Michigan Association of Public School Academies. As executive director, she is poised to live out her passion and comittment to Detroit's kids.

Nutrena H. Tate

Assistant Professor, University of Detroit Mercy

Dr. Nutrena Tate received her Bachelor's and Masters of Science degrees from the University of Michigan and a Doctorate of Philosophy degree from Wayne State University. As a Post Doctoral Research fellow, her research interests include factors affecting obesity in adolescents of color. She has co-authored journal articles and more. She has presented her research on local, national and international levels.

Dr. Tate has teaching experience as an assistant professor at the University of Detroit Mercy. Among her awards are the Ellen H. Toporek Award for Excellence in Pediatric Nursing, Nurse Educator of the Year from National Black Nurses Association, and Children's Hospital of Michigan Nurse of the Month.

She currently serves as president of Lambda Chi Chapter of Chi Eta Phi Sorority, Inc., a professional nursing organization, and chairman of the board for Teen H.Y.P.E, a teen empowerment organization as well as serving on other various community based advisory boards. She is a proud member of Detroit Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and Triumph Church. She is happily married to Councilman James Tate.

Terrence Thompson

Attorney and Co-Founder of Networkingout/Run This Town

Terrence J.L. Thompson is the CEO of Networking-out, LLC, and co-founder of the Run This Town (RTT) movement. RTT is a communal fitness movement created for the purpose of defeating obesity and promoting healthier lifestyles in America. In addition to his role with Networkingout/RTT, Thompson is a corporate attorney specializing in M&A, MBEs and startups at the Bodman Law Firm in Detroit. He previously served as AVP of Compliance with Flagstar Bank and as an assistant U.S. Attorney.

Thompson graduated from Eastern Michigan University with a degree in political science and minor in business. He later received his juris doctorate from Wayne State University Law School (WSULS). He graduated from WSULS in May 2008 in the Top 25-percent of his class. Upon taking the bar exam in 2008, he scored in the top 1% of all bar takers in the U.S. He has a record of community service and leadership. He currently serves on several bar association and community boards and speaks to young people about the importance of education and overcoming adversity.

Monique Vann-Brown

Owner/Operator, McDonald's

Monique Vann-Brown is a native of Detroit. She attended Cranbrook Kingswood School in Bloomfield Hills. She earned a BS in Industrial Engineering with a concentration in Manufacturing Engineering from Purdue University as well as an MBA with concentrations in Operations and Manufacturing Technology Management from the Krannert Graduate School of Management at Purdue University.

Her career evolved from various summer internships at Intel Corporation, Ford Motor Company and Chrysler Corporation to manufacturing engineering and production supervision at General Motors. She held positions of increasing responsibility in purchasing management for various commodities at Visteon Corporation. At the time of her departure from Visteon, she managed over $175 million spend for metal commodities. She negotiated multi-year agreements with suppliers that resulted in 3% year-over-year cost reductions on value-added content.

Since her smooth transition from her successful career in the automotive industry to McDonald's franchise ownership, Monique has demonstrated the ability to operate a profitable portfolio of restaurants, which have achieved year-over-year sales growth. She also volunteers her time as a panelist to many organizations including the NAACP and is a mentor to many aspiring entrepreneurs.

Chrystal Wilson

Senior Account Executive, Berg Muirhead and Associates

Chrystal Wilson, account executive, joined Berg Muirhead in 2010 and provides extensive communications expertise in media and public relations, crisis communications, community outreach, event planning and social media marketing.

She has worked on numerous campaigns including the Education Achievement Authority of Michigan, The Knight Foundation'sBMe Community, Detroit Area Agency on Aging, Sodexo Detroit, HAP, Detroit Public Schools and many more.

Prior to joining Berg Muirhead, Wilson provided communications consulting services to various clients, including the Motown Museum, Real Times Media, Handprint Entertainment, Daimler Financial Services and the Wayne County Chapter of the Links, Inc. She has a background in journalism and worked at several newspaper outlets including the Detroit News, Detroit Free Press, Automotive News and the Observer and Eccentric's Mirror newspapers and as a city manager for the nationally-distributed Rolling Out Urban Style Weekly magazine, Detroit edition. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from Wayne State University and is a member of the Public Relations Society of America.

Matthew Woodford

President and CEO, Victory Mobile LLC

Matthew Woodford currently serves as the president and CEO of Victory Mobile LLC, a company he founded in 2009. It is a full-service branding, digital marketing and communications firm that helps clients effectively identify and reach their target market. Leveraging the ease and popularity of text messages and social media, the firm is able to create and implement marketing and communication strategies that actively engage all audiences.

He is also the co-founder of In The Black Suites, LLC, a commercial real estate firm that offers exclusive downtown Detroit office space to local businesses, nonprofits and community organizations via commercial office space and virtual offices.

Woodford is an avid cook and is dedicated to healthy living via fitness and healthy choice meals. He attended the University of Michigan studying industrial engineering and economics.

Rian J. Barnhill Managing Editor

Copyright:	(c) 2013 Michigan Chronicle
Wordcount:	7864