WOMEN OF EXCELLENCE 2015

Anonymous

<person>Linda Alexander</person>, BSN, MBA, RN, CCMChief Clinical Officer<org value="ACORN:1152995985" idsrc="xmltag.org">Total Health Care</org>Considered one of the most talented, results-driven executives in the healthcare industry today, <person>Linda Alexander</person> embraces the philosophy that collaborative, inspiring leadership cuts across traditional boundaries. With more than 20 years in the industry, Linda's experience spans business operations, care management, physician alignment, operational efficiency, strategic planning, and quality/performance improvement.Currently, as the Chief Clinical Officer of <org value="ACORN:1152995985" idsrc="xmltag.org">Total Health Care</org>, she is responsible for clinical operations and population health management. A true change agent, Linda is charged with leading the organization's care management efforts during this era of healthcare reform. She is sought after by state and national organizations to speak on care integration and population health management strategies.Before joining <org value="ACORN:1152995985" idsrc="xmltag.org">Total Health Care</org>, Linda was Regional Vice President for the <org value="ACORN:0659858257" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit Medical Center</org>. She was actively involved in preparing the DMC for the new Healthcare Reform era. She developed and cultivated a care continuum strategy for the DMC, which now serves as a coordination platform for its ACO.Linda earned a BS in Nursing from the <org value="ACORN:0945155961" idsrc="xmltag.org">University of Detroit-Mercy</org> and an MBA from <org value="ACORN:2173237580" idsrc="xmltag.org">Wayne State University</org>. She serves on various community boards for non-profit organizations and advisory committees. She is also an active member of <org value="ACORN:4235543300" idsrc="xmltag.org">Delta Sigma Theta Sorority</org>, Ine, <org>The Links Inc.</org>. <org>Renaissance Chapter</org>.Linda, is a native Detroiter and has three amazing sons.<person>Patricia Alexander</person>Vice President and Commercial Loan Officer<org value="ACORN:0318737313" idsrc="xmltag.org">Comerica Bank</org><person>Patricia Alexander</person> has delivered acomprehensive array of financial products and services to small and medium sized businesses for more than thirty years, with special affinity towards cceative financing solutions through partnerships afforded by various governmental entities. Tailored loan products range from short to long term vehicles which help to facilitate working capital financing, equipment and real estate acquisition, and business expansion.In addition to IMe above responsibilities, she co-chairs <org value="NYSE:CMA" idsrc="xmltag.org">Comerica</org> s African American Maritai Segmentation Initiative. This initiative provides philanthropic giving and^efner professional support to organizations promoting educational advancement, youth empowerment;' entrepreneurship, and career development.Other community support can be evidenced by Alexander's dedicated involvement with the following organizations: <org>Opportunity Fund</org> (formerly known as the <org>Michigan Interfaith Fund</org> and the <org>Housing Trust Fund</org>); ProsperUS; <org>Gleaneners Food Bank</org>; <org>Lighthouse Community</org>; ProsperUS; Focus Hope; and, <org>Metropolitan Growth and Development Corporation</org>.<person>Genelle M. Allen, Esq.</person>Assistant County Executive<location value="LU/us.mi.wayne" idsrc="xmltag.org">Wayne County</location><person>Genelle M. Allen</person> is a senior leader and attorney who serves as an Assistant County Executive with <location value="LU/us.mi.wayne" idsrc="xmltag.org">Wayne County</location>. Her vast experience includes over 14 years with <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location> Metropolitan and Willow Run Airports. She started her career with Michigan's largest airport system in 1997 as in-house counsel and subsequently held several senior leadership positions, including Deputy CEO. In 2010-2011, Allen became the first African-American woman to lead Michigan's airports when she served as the Interim CEO.Allen has also managed Municipal Affairs for the <org>City of Detroit Law Department</org> and was lead in-house counsel for <location value="LU/us.oh.clevld" idsrc="xmltag.org">Cleveland, Ohio's</location> airports. She started her career in the non-profit arena and also practiced civil rights law.A metropolitan <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location> native, Allen is a <org value="ACORN:2173237580" idsrc="xmltag.org">Wayne State University</org> and <org>University of Detroit Meicy School of Law</org> graduate. She is a Board Member of First Step, serving survivors of domestic violence / sexual assault, Oakwood's <org>Women's Health Advisory Council</org>, and is active in her church where she leads the "College Bound, No Excuses" program.<person>Tonya Allen</person>President and Chief Executive Officer<org>Skillman Foundation</org><person>Tonya Allen</person> serves as <org>The Skillman Foundation's</org> president and chief executive officer. Her career has centered on pursuing, executing, and investing in ideas that improve her hometown of <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location> and reduce the plight of underserved people, especially children.Previously, Allen was the Foundation's chief operating officer & vice president of program. She served as the architect of the 10-year, <money>$100 million</money> Good Neighborhoods program. She launched the <money>$200-million</money>, citywide education reform organization Excellent Schools Detroit, and her high-school improvement strategy has resulted in 22 new college-preparatory schools.She holds a bachelor's degree in sociology and masters' degrees in social work and public; health from the University of Michigan-<location value="LU/us.mi.annarb" idsrc="xmltag.org">Ann Arbor</location>. She serves on boards and committees for <org>The Funders Network for Smart Growth</org>, Grantmakers for Children, Youth and Families, <org>Council of Michigan Foundations</org>, the <org>Executive Alliance</org>, and <org>Association of Black Foundation Executives</org>.Before joining the Foundation in 2004, Allen worked for the <org>Charles Stewart Mott Foundation</org> and the <org>Thompson-McCully Foundation</org>. She also founded and led Detroit Parent Network.<person>Earlene R. Baggett-Hayes</person>Attorney/Arbitrator/Mediator/Trainer<org>The Law & Mediation Center, PLLC</org>Earlene R Baggett-Hayes is the president and founder of <org>The Law and Mediation Center, PLLC</org>, in <location value="LU/us.mi.poniac" idsrc="xmltag.org">Pontiac, Michigan</location>. In addition to the practice of law in both criminal and croilarenas, Earlene routinely conducts all aspects of Alternative Dispute ResolutionSADR), including mediations, arbitrations, fact-findings, client coaching, facilitationXand training. Earlene also develops and facilitates extensive training programs in the all of these areas and regularly serves as a speaker on various related topic around the country.Community service is a huge part Earlene' career. She serves on numerous boards and works with various community organizations. Her most recent projects included providing free services to clients by assisting thenrki expunging their criminal records, mentoring law students, and spearheading a group which handmade oveVpne-thousand dolls for children of <location value="LR/afr" idsrc="xmltag.org">Africa</location>. Earlene is a graduate of <org>Creighton University Law School</org>, where she also earned a bachelor's degree. In addition, she received a master's degree in <org>Public Administration</org> from <org value="ACORN:0552290606" idsrc="xmltag.org">Roosevelt University</org> in <location value="LU/us.il.chicgo" idsrc="xmltag.org">Chicago, Illinois</location>.<person>Edna Bell</person>Chief Executive Officer & President<org>Travelers Aid Society of Metropolitan Detroit</org><person>Edna Talbert Bell</person> is a native Detroiter, graduating from <org>Northern High School</org> and <org value="ACORN:2173237580" idsrc="xmltag.org">Wayne State University</org>. She currently serves as CEO of <org>Travelers Aid Society of Metropolitan Detroit</org>. Edna's illustrative career began at <org value="ACORN:3656672082" idsrc="xmltag.org">Michigan Bell Telephone Company</org> in 1969 where she quickly moved up the ladder occupying key positions in training, Community Affairs and Labor Relation/Quality of Work Life reporting directly to the President.Edna's intense interest in volunteerism began in the mid 70s when her two daughters entered school. She became president of the local school's PTA and also chair of the Fundraising Committee and Millage Renewal Campaign. In 1981 she was appointed to the <org>Detroit School Board</org>, serving until 1991 when she was appointed and subsequently elected to serve as <location value="LU/us.mi.wayne" idsrc="xmltag.org">Wayne County</location> Commissioner until June, 2000.As <org>School Board</org> member she established the <location>Drug Free School Zone</location> program which still exists. As Commissioner, she focused on increasing public safety, supporting minority and women owned businesses and established the <location value="LU/us.mi.wayne" idsrc="xmltag.org">Wayne County</location>/ Detroit Sustainable Development Roundtable. Edna received special recognition with an appointment by <person>President Clinton</person> to the first National Sustainable Roundtable Clearing House. Serving as president of the 5000 member <org>National Association of Black County Officials</org>, she brought their annual <org>Business Development Conference</org> to <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location> for the first time since the inception of the organization.Edna is the proud parent of two wonderful daughters <person>Alisha Bell Young</person> and <person>Sonya Johnson</person> and Nana to three incredible grandchildren Grant, <location value="LU/us.ri.craton" idsrc="xmltag.org">Cranston</location> and Morgan.<person>Frances D. Blanks</person>PresidentInsurance Services of Michigan<person>Frances Blanks</person> has long been one of <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit's</location> most heralded African American businesswomen. Blanks found herself on the frontlines of the fight for equal employment rights for women since her days at <org value="ACORN:3213173945" idsrc="xmltag.org">Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan</org> when in 1967 she became embroiled in successfully overturning the policy euphemistically known as "early layoff without pay" which was primarily reserved for pregnant women.While employed at the <org>Faygo Beverages Company</org> in 1980, Frances became the first female sales executive, paving the way for better paying positions for women employees.Frances went on to establish <org>Insurance Services of Michigan, LLC</org> is a niche market company specializing in corporate surety bonds. The agency was formed to provide an alternative for probate attorneys requiring fiduciary bonds. For more than 20 years the ardent entrepreneur has employed and trained young women in the insurance industry.As Frances looks forward to attending her 50th reunion for <org>Cass Technical High School</org> and easing into retirement she is most proud of her accomplishments to improve employment conditions for women in the workplace.Frances happily shares her <chron>Feb. 4</chron> birthday with <person>Rosa Parks</person>. She is a lifelong resident of <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location> and has one daughter Wendy along with three adult grandchildren.Dr. <person>Maria L. Bobo</person>Nursing Practice Director<org>Detroit Medical Center Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan</org><person>Dr Bobo</person> is an innovative and transformational leader in the nursing profession. In her role as the Nursing Practice Director at the <org>Detroit Medical Center Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan</org> (RIM), she is responsible for the management of the nursing practice environment and nursing quality. She leads several initiatives centered on patient satisfaction, sustaining positive patient outcomes, and interdisciplinary collaborations. Under <person>Dr. Bobo's</person> guidance, RIM is one of only three rehabilitation hospitals in the country to receive the American Nurses Credentials Center Magnet® designation for excellence in nursing. She is a native Detroiter and serves as a mentor and preceptor to staff nurses and nursing students throughout Michigan. She is actively involved in numerous professional and social organizations and is the recipient of several awards recognizing her professional success. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from <org value="ACORN:4255726594" idsrc="xmltag.org">Grand Valley State University</org> and both her Master of Science in Nursing and Doctorate of Nursing Practice from <org value="ACORN:2173237580" idsrc="xmltag.org">Wayne State University</org>. She and her husband, Dr. <person>Andre Bobo</person>, are the proud parents of three beautiful daughters.<person>Denise Boone-Bennett</person>Vice Preident and Consumer Market Manager<org value="NYSE:BAC" idsrc="xmltag.org">Bank of America</org><person>Denise Boone-Bennett</person> is a Vice President and Consumer Market Manager of the Metro Detroit Market at <org value="NYSE:BAC" idsrc="xmltag.org">Bank of America</org>. She is responsible for leading, managing and coaching 12 Financial Centers in the Consumer Division, where her mantra is "Master The Space You Are In".Denise joined <org value="NYSE:BAC" idsrc="xmltag.org">Bank of America</org> in 2008 through the <location value="LU/us.il.laalle" idsrc="xmltag.org">LaSalle</location> acquisition. She has held a number of positions during her 14 year career. Denise is a proud recipient of the 2013 Retail Banking and Distribution's Top Performers Award where she was among the top 10% of performers in the entire Franchise.Before joining the bank, Denise worked in Retail Management and Training for 16 years and worked for a number of retailers including Payless Shoe Source, The Limited & The Body Shop. Denise is married with two children and has three grandchildren. She is an active member of the <org>Macedonia Baptist Church</org> in <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit Michigan</location>.<person>Brenda Joyce Carter</person>Vice President<org>Pontiac School District</org><person>Brenda Joyce Carter</person> is the Vice Praafoent of <org>Pontiac School District Board of Education</org> and the first African American female Vice President of the <org>Michigan Association of School Board Brenda</org> received a Master of <org>Public Administration</org> from <org value="ACORN:2519054137" idsrc="xmltag.org">Oakland University</org> and was the first woman graduate from <location value="LU/us.mi.poniac" idsrc="xmltag.org">Pontiac</location> of the Michigan Palificai Leadership Program (MPLP) at <org value="ACORN:2490466742" idsrc="xmltag.org">Michigan State University</org>. She was the Directress of Education for the Elks (IBPOEW). She was also the National'Co-chair of the historic Million Woman March and was the programming engineer for the 2003 <org>Pontiac Northern Huskie Brigade</org> national championship F.I.R.S.T. robotics team.Brenda serves as secretary of the <org>Tax Increment Finance Authority</org> (TIFA) and the <org>Brownfield Redevelopment Authority</org> (BRA) <org>Board of Defectors</org> in <location value="LU/us.mi.poniac" idsrc="xmltag.org">Pontiac</location>. She was the Interim City Manager in <location value="LU/us.mi.troy" idsrc="xmltag.org">Troy</location>. Currently, Brenda serves as financial secretary for the <org>Delta Fortitude Foundation</org> and is a proud member of <org>Pontiac Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority</org>, Inc. She is a member of <org>New Mount Moriah International Church</org>. She is half of "Team Carter," <location value="LU/us.mi.poniac" idsrc="xmltag.org">Pontiac's</location> first elected couple. She is married to City Councilman <person>Randy Carter</person> and hassix children and seven grandchildren.Dr. <person>Christina L. Clark</person>, MDFamily Medicine<org>Alsan Medical Clinic</org><person>Christina L. Clark</person>, MD is a respected board certified family medicine physician. She is a graduate of <org value="ACORN:2596235010" idsrc="xmltag.org">Spelman College</org> and <org>Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine</org>. After completing her residency at <org>Carolinas Medical Center</org> in <location value="LU/us.mi.charlt" idsrc="xmltag.org">Charlotte</location>, <person>Dr. Clark</person> joined her father, Dr. <person>Frank M. Clark</person>, at <org>Alsan Medical Clinic</org>. Accordingly, her practice reflects the essence of family medicine, offering high quality comprehensive patient care to a multi-generational patient population in a medically underserved area on the east side of <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location> for over forty years. <person>Dr. Clark</person> is widely known for her compassion and zealous advocacy for the uninsured and underserved.While medicine is her passion, community service is her priority. She serves as Senior Advisor for the <org>Co-Ette Club Inc.</org>, an organization dedicated to the development of leadership skills and civic responsibility in high school girls in metropolitan <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location>. As Vice President of the Detroit Chapter of <org>The Links Inc.</org>, a community outreach organization, she focuses on access to health care and mentoring girls at <org>The Detroit International Academy</org>.<person>Carrie J. Clark</person>Director, IT and Project Management Office<org value="ACORN:3332602089" idsrc="xmltag.org">Henry Ford Health System</org><person>Carrie J. Clark</person> is the Director of the <org>IT Infrastructure Project Management Office for Henry Ford Health System</org>. Carrie served as Director of the Enterprise Project Office at R. L. <location value="LU/us.oh.polk" idsrc="xmltag.org">Polk</location>, and has held other key positions such as Quality Assurance Manager, Director of <org value="Australia:RDG" idsrc="xmltag.org">Resource Development</org> and Adjunct Professor.Carrie received the DRIVEN award and won the finalist award for PMO of the Year. She has achieved her BA and a MSA degrees. She is pursuing an MBA in <org>Health Administration</org>. She has earned credentials as a PMP®, CPM, Scrum Master and ITIL Foundations. She has served as a mentor via executive mentoring programs.Carrie is an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, PMI, Jack and Jill of America. AHA and a board member for the <org>Youth Development Commission</org>.The most important aspect of her life is her family - husband, (Mark) and two wonderful sons (Ian & Noah)<person>Nadine Cook</person>Community Relations ConsultantSt. John ProvidenceSince 2002, <person>Nadine Cook</person> has served in community relations and marketing roles for St. Joto Providence that have connected the health system, its hospitals and mission the communities it serves. Nadine develops and manages hospital/health system relationships and partnerships with key business and governmental entities, oqmmunity groups, non-profit organizations and economic development coalitio.Prior to joining St. John Providence, Nadine served as the Director of <location>Community Building</location> for United Way Community Services and as Chief, <org>Family Services</org>, at the <location value="LS/us.nc" idsrc="xmltag.org">State of North Carolina</location>, <org>Department of Human Resobres</org>. Nadine earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology with a minor in <org value="ACORN:3126001360" idsrc="xmltag.org">Health Care Administration</org> from <org>Mercy College of Detroit</org> and a Masters of Science in Administration (Leadership) from <org value="ACORN:0043438132" idsrc="xmltag.org">Central Michigan University</org>. She's been honored with the <org>Sojourner Foundation</org> Award for work with Women and Children, and the Volunteer of the Year from the <org>Southfield Area Chamber of Commerce</org>.<person>Michelle Crockett</person>Principal and Director of <org>Professional Development</org>Miller, <location value="LU/us.oh.caneld" idsrc="xmltag.org">Canfield</location>, Paddock and Stone, P.L.C.<person>Michelle P. Crockett</person> is currently a Principal in the labor and employment group at the law firm of Miller Canfield. She also oversees the hiring of all attorneys (including laterals), and leads the firm's recruitment, diversity & inclusion initiatives, mentoring programs, professional development and continuing education (CLE) initiatives in her role as Director of <org>Professional Development</org>. In 2008, Michelle became the first African-American female Principal in the firm's history. In <chron>August 2013</chron>, she left the firm to assume the role of general counsel for the <org>Education Achievement Authority of Michigan</org> where she remained until <chron>November 2014</chron>In 2013 she was named a Michigan Super Lawyer, and as one of the Best Lawyers in America for Litigation-Labor & Employment. Michelle currently serves as President-elect for the Board of Directors for Alternatives for Girls and Treasurer for the Leadership Oakland Board of Directors. She was recently selected as a Council Member for the <org>State Bar of Michigan's</org> Labor & Employment Law Section.<person>Gwendolyn A. de Jongh</person>Chief Human Resources and Labor Relations Officer<org>Detroit Public Schools</org><person>Gwendolyn A. de Jongh</person> is the Chief Human Resources and Labor Relations Officer for the <org>Detroit Public Schools</org>. <person>Ms. de Jongh's</person> advocacy for children's rights began early in her legal career when <person>Ms. de Jongh</person> served as guardian ad litem and attorney in the <org>Office of the Cook County Public Guardian</org> where she represented children who were subjects of abuse and neglect petitions. <person>Ms. de Jongh's</person> public interest and pro bono work includes the Chicago Legal Advocacy for Incarcerated Mothers, <org>Children's Law Center</org> (<location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location>), and the <org>City of Detroit Law Department</org>.<person>Ms. de Jongh</person> has 25 years of labor and employment law experience, including Vice President and Benefits Counsel for <org value="NYSE:CMA" idsrc="xmltag.org">Comerica</org> and Senior Employment Attorney with <org>Kmart Management Corporation</org>.<person>Ms. de Jongh</person> is a <org>Cass Technical High School</org> and <org value="ACORN:2490466742" idsrc="xmltag.org">Michigan State University</org> graduate. <person>Ms. de Jongh</person> is married with a nine year old and resides in <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location>.<person>LaNesha DeBardelaben</person>Vice President of Assessment & Community Engagement<org>Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History</org><person>LaNesha DeBardelaben</person> is the Vice President of Assessment & Community Engagement at the <org>Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History</org>. She engages the museum in substantive community collaborations and initiatives. LaNesha is leading the <org>Wright Museum's</org> effort to gain national accreditation to increase its impact and foster sustainability. LaNesha also supervises the museum's <org>Education Department</org>. She has served on the Board of Directors of the <org>Michigan Council for History Education</org>. Her honors include a 2014 Crain Detroit's Business 40 Under 40 award.LaNesha has a passion for public history, culture and the arts, literacy, and education, and masterfully fosters museum programming around these critical areas of impact. She is an AKA and President of the Detroit Pierians, Ine, a national black women's arts society. She earned a B.A. from <org value="ACORN:6000346811" idsrc="xmltag.org">Kalamazoo College</org>, M.A. from the <org>University of Missouri</org>, M.L.S. from <org value="ACORN:1473512794" idsrc="xmltag.org">Indiana University-Bloomington</org>, and is pursuing a Ph.D. at <org value="ACORN:2490466742" idsrc="xmltag.org">Michigan State University</org>.Dr. Shawny DeBerryDeputy Chief Operating Officer<org>Wayne County Department of Public Service</org>Dr. Shawny DeBerry is a strategic leader with over 25 years experience in the government sector. She was recently appointed by <location value="LU/us.mi.wayne" idsrc="xmltag.org">Wayne County</location> Executive <person>Warren Evans</person> as Executive Administrative Officer for the <org>Department of Public Services</org>. She was also a Mayoral Appointee, serving as the Director for the <org>Detroit Municipal Parking Department</org>. She has worked as the Finance Director for the <org>Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority</org>, and the <org value="ACORN:0413644251" idsrc="xmltag.org">Philadelphia Housing Authority</org>. She is currently an adjunct professor at the University of <location value="LU/us.az.phonix" idsrc="xmltag.org">Phoenix</location>.<person>Dr. DeBerry</person> has a BA/BS Degree in Finance and MBA from the <org value="ACORN:0945155961" idsrc="xmltag.org">University of Detroit Mercy</org>, and a Ph.D. in Organization and Management from <org>Capella University</org>. She serves on boards for the <org>Horatio Williams Foundation</org>, <org>Vanguard Community Development Corporation</org>, and <org>Michigan Parking Association</org>. She serves as a Trustee, Choir President, and Dream Girls Mentor at <org>Second Ebenezer Church</org>. She also volunteers with the <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location> Public Schools Reading Corp Program.Mawine DtogsCampus President and Chief Academic Officer Officer<location>Wayne County Community ColWje District</location> - Eastern Campus In 2011, Mawine Diggs joined <org value="ACORN:0934648263" idsrc="xmltag.org">Wayne County Community College District</org> a five campus multi- cultural instituron serving more than 70,000 students annually. She currently serves as the Campus President and CAO of the Eastern Campus.As the Campus Chief Executive Officer reporting to the Chancellor, Mawine is a member of the Chancellor's executive staff and participates in establishing institutional goals in accordance with the District's educational plan. With responsibility for providing strong decisive energetic leadership in meeting the District's commitment to student learning and success, she provides leadership, for campus planning including development of the vision, mission, facilities plan, college curriculum and campus budget.A native of <location value="LC/lr" idsrc="xmltag.org">Liberia</location>, Mayrtfie's journey is not one of a conventional nature but one which has left her with a multifaceted viewpoint of the significance of higher education in today's society and the importance of impacting her community and the world one experience at a time.Judge <person>Vonda Evans</person><org>Wayne County Third Circuit Court</org>Honorable Judge <person>Vonda Evans</person> has been presiding over legal cases for the citizehe of <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location> and surrounding <location value="LU/us.mi.wayne" idsrc="xmltag.org">Wayne County</location> for 18 years. The Judge grew up in uhtroit and she is the proud product of <org>Detroit Public Schools</org>, graduating from <org>Henry Ford High School</org>.She then attented and graduated from <org>North Carolina A & T State University</org>, where she earnec her Bachelor of Arts.She graduated from <org>Thomas Cooley Law School</org>, where she earned her Juris Doctorate. After passing the Michigan State Bar she became an attorney at the age of 25.Recently she has had the privillege of presiding over several high profile media cases, one where the father was accused of killing his baby daughter and her body was not found and cadaver dogs findings where admitted and a conviction of murder was reached by the jury. This was the first time in the Midwest that cadaver dogs findings where admitted in a homicide. Two young girls from <location value="LU/us.mi.hammck" idsrc="xmltag.org">Hamtramck Mi.</location> where abducted and murdered and buried. A case where a defendant was charged with killing his wife in a suburban area of <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location> which involved very salacious details. And countless other meaningful trials during her tenure in the <org>Criminal Division of Wayne County Third</org> biscuit Court.Her no nonsense common sense approach to resolving legal issues, has made hèKcourtroom popular among many "court watchers". Many of whom regularly return to witness her effectively "meting out justice."She regularly attends <org>Greater Grace Temple</org> and is the mother of two daughters, Lauren a junior at LSU and Naomi a 12th grader at <org>Southfield Christian School</org>.Her philosophy for life is simple," The life you live is measured by the life you give."Honorable Judge <person>Wanda Evans</person><org>36th District Court</org>Judge <person>Wanda A. Evans</person>, was born and raised in <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location>. She Graduated from <org>Cass Tech High School</org>. She earned a Bachelor Degree from <org value="ACORN:0629331028" idsrc="xmltag.org">Eastern Michigan University</org>, a Master of Social Work from <org value="ACORN:2173237580" idsrc="xmltag.org">Wayne State University</org>, and a Juris Doctor from U of <org>D School of Law</org>. In 1995, she was sworn in to practice to practice taw in the <location value="LS/us.mi" idsrc="xmltag.org">State of Michigan</location>. She worked for the Misdemeanor Defender's Office at the <org>36th District Court</org>. Later, she started her own law firm, "The Law offices of <org>Wanda A. Evans & Associates, PLLC</org>" where she practiced law 17 years in the areas of Civil, Real Estate, Criminal and Family law before she was elected Judge of the <org>36th District Court</org> in 2012.Prior to going to law school, <person>Wanda Evans</person> worked as a Foster Care Worker for the <org>Children's Aids Society</org>; the <org>Community Case Management Agency</org> and a probation officer for 10 years for <org>Wayne County Juvenile Court</org>. Additionally as a private therapist for children and families.Judge <person>Wanda Evans</person> continues to lend her time and talent to various organizations such as A2IM, Putting Youth First and Women of <location value="LU/us.mi.worth" idsrc="xmltag.org">Worth</location>, to name a few. She speaks at many organizations and has conducted the "About my Fathers' Business" Expungement Workshops. Additionally she volunteers to feed the seniors at Christmas time and pass out blankets to the homeless. Judge <person>Wanda Evans</person> works hard to ensure that litigants who come before her receive fairness and justice with respect.<person>Sherrie Farrell, Esq.</person>Office Managing Member<org>Dykema Gossett PLLC</org><person>Sherrie L. Farrell</person> is the Office Managing Member for Dykema's <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location> office, Co-Leader of the firm's Cybersecurity group and Chair of the firm's <org>Diversity and Inclusion Committee</org>. She advises clients on all aspects of business disputes and litigation matters. She also advises clients on corporate bankruptcy and business restructuring matters. Her honors include being named as one of the Best Lawyers in America, 2013-2015; 2014 Super Lawyer, DBusiness Top Lawyer 2015 and a Law360 Minority Powerbroker.A former journalist at the <org>Michigan Chronicle</org>, she also worked at the <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">City of Detroit</location> as a public relations practitioner.She is a former president of the <org>Wolverine Bar Association</org>. She currently serves as a board of director of the <org>Legal Aid and Defender Association</org>, <org>Detroit Metropolitan Bar Association</org>, Gift of Life-Michigan, <org value="ACORN:2979596560" idsrc="xmltag.org">Black Family Development</org> and <org>Citizens Research Council</org>. She is a member of <org>Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated</org> and <org>Hartford Memorial Baptist Church</org>.<person>Renée Fluker</person>Founder and PresidentMidnight Golf Program<person>Renée Fluker</person>, Founder and President of the Midnight Golf Program, oversees daily program operations and manages all phases of donor relations. She spends her evenings mentoring 120 metro-<location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location> high school seniors each week. Since 2001, 1300 students have matriculated through the program, with 90% enrolling in college. Students are educated on topics including financial literacy, college readiness and community activism-while being exposed to the game of golf.A graduate of <org value="ACORN:2173237580" idsrc="xmltag.org">Wayne State University</org>, Renée uses her social work background to support progression through the program. After 35 years of service, she retired from the Michigan's <org value="ACORN:0324942740" idsrc="xmltag.org">Department of Human Services</org>. She is a lifetime member of the <org>NAACP</org> and was inducted into the <org>African American Golfers Hall of Fame</org>. She serves on the advisory board for <org>African American Golf Digest Magazine</org> and The Gasper Financial Group Board of Advisors. Renée has one son, Jason, who serves as a program mentor.The Honorable <person>Sherry Gay-Dagnogo</person>State Representative<org>Michigan Legislature</org> - <location>8th District</location>State Representative <person>Sherry Gay-Dagnogo</person>, <person>M.Ed</person>., is in her first term as state representative of Michigan's <location>8th District</location>, serving northwest <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location>, including the Brightmoor and the Grandmont-Rosedale communities.<person>Rep. Gay-Dagnogo</person> is an educator, former <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location> City Council staff member and community organizer dedicating to transforming Michigan's education systems. As a <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location> public school science teacher, Gay-Dagnogo learned firsthand the value of good education systems and the struggles classrooms are facing. She has previously led community engagement projects funded by the city of <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location>, <location>UAW Region</location> 1A, <org value="ACORN:4178065506" idsrc="xmltag.org">AFL-CIO</org>, <org>AFSCME Council 25</org>, Great Start Collaborative, the <org value="ACORN:0797087647" idsrc="xmltag.org">Kresge Foundation</org>, the <org>Kellogg Foundation</org>, UCLA, <org>United Way of Southeast Michigan</org> and the <org>Skillman Foundation</org>. She knows the importance of connecting community with their neighbors and leaders to solve problems.Gay-Dagnogo hopes to bring this ability to build partnerships to <org>the Legislature</org> in order to support quality public education, academic accountability, small business development, job creation, protecting our seniors and community safety.<person>Rep. Gay-Dagnogo</person> is the proud mom of one son, Jordan, and a current resident and former Vice President of <org>North Rosedale Park Civic Association</org>, where she remains actively engaged.<person>Carole Gist</person>First Black Miss USA/Fitness & Wellness Professional<org>Royal Physique Fitness</org><person>Carole Gist</person> is the first African-American to be crowned Miss USA in 1990 and first runner-up to Miss Universe that same year. She is the proud mother of Tylar (22) and Kelth (17).As a model and athlete she understood the importance of being physically fit but lost sight of that once she was no longer a model or competitive athlete and had children. She made a decision to get her life and health back on track. Carole has trained for and completed several full and half marathons to date. She is passionate about helping others achieve their health and wellness goals through exercise and nutrition. She is completing her Master's degree in Kinesiology at <org value="ACORN:2173237580" idsrc="xmltag.org">Wayne State University</org> while maintaining her Speaking/Coaching/Training schedule.She is a passionate Motivational Speaker, Trainer and Coach. To book Carole for your next engagement please contact <a href="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a><person>Donna L. Givens</person>President<org>Youth Development Commission</org><person>Donna Lillian Givens</person> has over 25 years nonprofit leadership experience in areas of youth and family development, community economic development, community partnerships, and community education.<person>Ms. Givens</person> currently serves as President of the <org>Youth Development</org>. She previously worked Executive Director, <org>Brightmoor Community Center</org>; President, <org>Visions Education Development Consortium</org>; Executive Director, <org>Vanguard Community Development Corporation</org>; Vice President, <org>Big Brothers Big Sisters</org>; Deputy Director/Program Director, <org>Warren/Conner Development Coalition</org>; and Assistant Director, <org>Community Health Awareness Group</org>.<person>Ms. Givens</person> currently serves on the board of the <org>Grade Check Foundation</org> and the Redford Brightmoor Initiative. She is a member-at-large at <org>Plymouth United Church of Christ</org> and a co-teacher of the <org>High School Sunday School</org>.<person>Ms. Givens</person> is completing her Masters in Educational Leadership at <org value="ACORN:2173237580" idsrc="xmltag.org">Wayne State University</org> (2015). She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree (Political Science) from the <org>University of Michigan</org> and a Certificate of Completion from the <org>Harvard University Summer Leadership Institute</org>.Deputy Chief U. Renee' HallDeputy Chief<location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location> Police DeparfmentU. Renee' Hall, a native Detroiter and second generation law enforcement officer has spent the better part of her life and career, serving the community. She is a 15 year veteran of that <org>Detroit Police Department</org>. On <chron>May 20, 2014</chron>, Hall was appointed to her current rank of Deputy Chief of the <org>Neighborhood Policing Bureau</org>. She overceees all 12 Precincts and the Metropolitan Division, which includes: Tactical Response Unit (TRU), <org>Special Response Team</org> (SWAT) K-9 and Harbor Master to name a few.Hall's commitment to the community includes the establishment of mentor programs, waiting with community groups for <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit's</location> beautification and bridging the gap between law enforcemenfand the community.She has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice, from <org value="ACORN:1023101007" idsrc="xmltag.org">Grambling State University</org> and two Master of <org>Science Degrees- Security Administration</org> and Intelligence Analysis, from the <org value="ACORN:0945155961" idsrc="xmltag.org">University of Detroit Mercy</org>.Deputy Chief Hall is a member of the <org>International Association of Chiefs of Police</org> (IACP), <org>The National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives</org> (NOBLE) and <org value="ACORN:4235543300" idsrc="xmltag.org">Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.</org> Hall was recently appointed by Governor <person>Richard Snyder</person> to the <org>Elevator Safety Board for the State of Michigan</org>.<person>LaDonna Holley</person>Sr. Vice President of Human Resources and Organizational Development<org value="ACORN:0060539544" idsrc="xmltag.org">Presbyterian Villages of Michigan</org><person>LaDonna Holley</person> serves as the Sr. Vice President of Human Resources and Organizational Development for <org value="ACORN:0060539544" idsrc="xmltag.org">Presbyterian Villages of Michigan</org>. In this executive leadership role she provides oversight for over 650 employees, in 27 locations. One of Honey's greatest accomplishments has been the transformation and culture change within the multi-site <org>Human Resources Department</org>. Holley felt it was critical to have a holistic view of not only the employees, but the older adults that PVM serves, and to actively work to protect and encourage their overall well-being through human resources leadership.Holley holds her Bachelor's and Master's Degree in Human Resources, and is currently a Doctoral candidate for her Doctorate in Ministry degree from <org>Ecumenical Theological Seminary</org>. Holley is an ordained Reverend and member of <org>Union Grace Church</org>, under the leadership of Sr. Pastor <person>Reginald E. Smith</person>.Holley is a member of <org value="ACORN:4235543300" idsrc="xmltag.org">Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.</org>, the owner of <org>Derrick HR Consultants</org>, and co-founder of <org>Mended Hearts Christian Center</org>. Although Holley is involved in many professional and community efforts, she attributes all of her success to God's grace, mercy, and favor.Holley is married to Early Holley and has one son, <person>Derrick Bynum</person>.Dr. <person>Sabrina Jackson</person>Founder & Chief Executive Officer<org>Sabrina Jackson Enterprises</org>Dr. Sabrina Jackson, a native <org>Detroiter and Cass Technical High School</org> graduate, has taken the world by storm! She completed her Master's Degree at the tender age of 23 from <org value="ACORN:2173237580" idsrc="xmltag.org">Wayne State University</org>. She is known as "The People Expert" as she travels the world helping people with people, even if that person is themselves! This inspiring force of nature is continuously busy training corporate executives, single mothers, and gospel artists. Immensely evident with each group that she trains, is her passion for people. Her analytical mind led her to create personality assessment models Essential Colors and Essential Love Styles. A single mom, herself, Sabrina has written several books, with the latest entitled He is Not a Statistic, about raising her son Marcel. She has been privileged to speak for <org value="NYSE:MCD" idsrc="xmltag.org">McDonald's</org>, <person>Tom Joyner Cruise</person>, and the <org>Detroit City Council</org>. She can be seen regularly on Fox 2's Let it Rip; writing a column in Thrive Detroit, and heard on radio around the country.Dr. <person>Deborah K. Jenkins</person>Principal<org>Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Senior High School</org> - DPSDr. <person>Deborah Jenkins</person>, a native Detroiter, is very passionate about <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit's</location> students receding a quality education. Currently principal ot Martin Luther King, <org>Jr. Senior High School</org>, she served as an educator for more than thirty years. Principal Jenkins leveraged her leadership experience and knowledge of organizatonal structures to fransform four schools.<person>Dr. Jenkins</person> is a born educator and an agent of change. Prior to being a principal, her unique mathematics teaching style and creativity helped shape the lives of many students. As an adjunct professor, she nurtured and supported many adult students, many who are now colleagues, to reach numerous victories and accomplishments.<person>Dr. Jenkins</person>, a married mother of 5- one current college student and four professionals with Master Degrees- models her commitment to learning personally and professionally. She believes that all things are possible through Christ and uses her gifts to create structures that support a legacy of education.<person>LaTrice Jordan</person>Vice President of Marketing & Development<org value="ACORN:1831131089" idsrc="xmltag.org">Matrix Human Services</org><person>LaTrice Jordan</person>, a native Detroiter is a leader, putting service to others as the focus of her life and career. Described by her peers as an innovator, business leader and visionary, LaTrice takes pride in serving the <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location> community that provided her with incredible opportunities. Joining <org value="ACORN:1831131089" idsrc="xmltag.org">Matrix Human Services</org> as Marketing Director in 2010 and being named Vice President of Marketing & Development in 2012, LaTrice has successfully rebranded Matrix, increased corporate engagement by 70 percent, donations by 50% and positioned Matrix as a sought out expert by media locally and nationally on fighting poverty.LaTrice's experience in organizing marketing efforts for Matrix, nationally recognized as a Clinton Global Initiative with their Transition to Success Model(TM) (TTS(TM)), designed to treat the condition of poverty transitioning clients to improved health and economic self-sufficiency is evident. The efforts of LaTrice and hundreds of her supporters have lifted thousands offering resources, comfort and hope.<person>Sylvia Jordan</person>Council President<location value="LU/us.mi.soueld" idsrc="xmltag.org">City of Southfield</location><person>Sylvia Jordan</person> is a dynamic speaker, author, life coach, entrepreneur, and business owner. Despite humble beginning, she knows the rewards of hard work and faith in God.Serving on <location value="LU/us.mi.soueld" idsrc="xmltag.org">Southfield's</location><org>City Council 16</org> years, 12 of those years in a leadership capacity as Council President or Pro Tern. No one in the history of the city has served the number of terms as President.In keeping with their commitment toward building families, she and her husband Larry, founded <org>Family Victory Fellowship Church</org>. She plays a vital part in the organization.She is a sought after international speaker, traveling and speaking abroad. She hosts annual outreaches to teen girls and homeless women.Jordan holds a degree from Michigan State and graduate studies at <org value="ACORN:2519054137" idsrc="xmltag.org">Oakland University</org>. A Cass Tech Alumni.Author 5 books, mother of two adult children, and son in love She loves home, enjoying her family, married over 30 years.<person>Deidre Lambert-Bounds</person>Chief Operating Officer & PartnerIgnite Social Media<person>Deidre Bounds</person> joined Ignite Social Media in 2010 as Chief Operating Officer and Partner. She manages Client Services, Consumer Insights and Analytics, Finance and Talent teams, as well as general agency operations.Prior to joining Ignite Social Media, Deidre spent 18 years with Ignite's sister company, Brogan & Partners Convergence Marketing, where her appetite for learning the marketing business lead to her working in nearly every department within the agency. During her time with <org>Brogan & Partners</org>, she managed and even kick-started several discipline teams including media buying, web development and public relations. Deidre's leadership and hard work earned her a Partner designation in 1998 and a Managing Partner title in 2009.A native Detroiter, Deidre has always supported her community through volunteering her time on a number of boards, committees and mentoring. Currently, she serves on executive boards for the <org value="ACORN:0921895889" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit Regional Chamber</org> and the <org>Sphinx Organization</org>. Deidre is also a Commissioner on the <org>Michigan Women's Commission</org> appointed by <person>Governor Snyder</person> in 2012.Deidre resides in <location value="LU/us.mi.troy" idsrc="xmltag.org">Troy</location>, Ml with her husband, Bill and is a mother of two.<person>Lyn Lewis</person>, Ph.DChief Executive Officer & President<org>Lyn Lewis & Associates</org><person>Dr. Lewis</person> is President and CEO of <org>Lyn Lewis & Associates</org>, and the former Chair and professor of sociology at the <org>University of Detroit</org> and the <org value="ACORN:0945155961" idsrc="xmltag.org">University of Detroit Mercy</org>. She is a noted sociologist, author, relationship guru, motivational speaker and consultant. <person>Dr. Lewis</person> has been a licensed Clinical Social Worker for the <location value="LS/us.mi" idsrc="xmltag.org">State of Michigan</location> for more than 30 years. She is also a certified licensed Evangelist by the <org>AME Church</org>. Among the numerous awards she has received, <person>Dr. Lewis</person> was the recipient of the faculty award for excellence from the <org>University of Detroit</org> and the distinguished alumnae award from <org value="ACORN:1023101007" idsrc="xmltag.org">Grambling State University</org>. She has consulted with several Fortune 500 companies. She is a former Chair and Board member of Holy Cross Children's Services and a former Board member of Samaritan Center. She has appeared on local radio and television stations as well as CNN, <org>BET</org> and <org>FOX News</org>. Her book is entitled: Don't Hate The Player, Learn The Game: How to Spot "Ineligible" Eligible Bachelors.<person>Lisa Lunsford</person>Chief Executive Officer and Co-FounderGlobal Strategic Supply Solutions (GS3 Global)<person>Lisa Lunsford</person>, CEO and co-founder of Global Strategic Supply Solutions (GS3 Global), started her career at <org value="NYSE:F" idsrc="xmltag.org">Ford Motor Company</org>, created her first business in 2000, and co-founded GS3 Global in 2010.Under Lunsford's leadership, GS3 Global has gone from a Michigan-based start-up to a global industry player, experiencing phenomenal growth in a harsh economic climate.Lunsford's personal involvement in community activities ranges from neighborhood groups to regional coalitions, professional associations, and vocational education programs.Lunsford's professional success is built on her personal mission to support her local community, and she's made it her business to remember who she's really working for."One reason I started a business was to provide a means for people to feed their families. I believe in job creation. That's key to America, to everybody," Lunsford said. "It's about putting America back to work."Lunsford resides in <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location> with her husband, Johnny, and her daughter, Olivia.<person>Shirley Mann Gray</person>, LMSWAdministrative Director<org>DMC Children's Hospital of Michigan</org><person>Shirley Mann Gray</person> is a passionate child advocate and expert in child maltreatment and domestic violence. She co-founded the Children's Child Protection Team, to manage child abuse and neglect cases. A respected consultant to government, she was appointed by two governors to the Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Board and the Domestic Violence Prevention and Treatment Board.<person>Mrs. Gray</person> presently serves on numerous state and local boards including the Michigan Child Death State Advisory Team and the <org>Wayne State University School of Social Work Board of Visitors</org>. Honors include the <person>Richard F. Huegli</person> Award for Program Excellence, <org>Family Services of Detroit/Wayne County</org>, Humanitarian of the Year from the Michigan Roundtable ta' Diversity and Inclusion, and WSU Social Work Alumna of the Year.Married and mother to two adult daughters, Gray mentors numerous African American women. Family is her highest priority.Dr. Carmen MclntyreChief Medical Officer<org>Detroit Wayne Mental Health Authority</org>Dr. Carmen Mclntyre is the Chief Medical Officer at the <org>Detroit Wayne Mental Health Authority</org>. She is committed to ensuring that the Authority meets the mental health needs of those with substance use disorders, mental illness, children with serious emotional disturbance, and persons with intellectual and/or developmental disorders in <location value="LU/us.mi.wayne" idsrc="xmltag.org">Wayne County</location>.As Chief Medical Officer, she leads the clinical practice improvement, research and training steas, striving to ensure that the clinical services delivered to over 100,000 persons a year are effective, efficient, evidence based, and consumer and community focused.Dr. Mclntyre is a <org>Wayne State University Medical School</org> alumnus, and completed residency and research fellowship training in <location value="LU/us.pa.phldph" idsrc="xmltag.org">Philadelphia</location>. She has published text book chapters and research articles on schizophrenia. She enjoy eleaching and mentoring through community forums; to school and community social workers and psychologists; and as an Assistant Clinical Professor at the <org>WSU School of Medicine</org>.<person>Dannis Mitchell</person>Diversity Manager<org value="ACORN:2778477428" idsrc="xmltag.org">Barton Malow Company</org><person>Dannis Mitchell</person> currently serves as Diversity Manager for <org value="ACORN:2778477428" idsrc="xmltag.org">Barton Malow Company</org>. In this capacity, she drives strategies that leverage the company's resources to ensure inclusion of underrepresented businesses and a multicultural workforce on commercial construction projects. In her previous role as Marketing Manager, Mitchell was responsible for the development of proposal and marketing strategies for projects up to <money>$500M</money>.Prior to joining <org value="ACORN:2778477428" idsrc="xmltag.org">Barton Malow Company</org>, Mitchell was employed by <location value="LU/us.oh.waldge" idsrc="xmltag.org">Walbridge</location> and L.S. Stinker, where she managed proposals and marketing operations for U.S. and International construction projects.She enjoys volunteering with organizations focused on improving local communities, including Life Remodeled and <org value="ACORN:1395100602" idsrc="xmltag.org">Habitat for Humanity</org>. Mitchell is also a member of the Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW) Network, where she has served as the <org>Detroit Chapter's</org> Communications Committee Chair and Foundation Liaison.Mitchell earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the <org>University of Michigan</org> and is a certified Construction Industry Technician (CIT).Jessica Care MoorePoet and Producer<person>Moore Black Press</person>Jessica Care Moore is the CEO of <person>Moore Black Press</person>, Executive Producer of Black WOMEN Rock!, and founder of the literacy-driven, <org>Jess Care Moore Foundation</org>. An internationally renowned poet, playwright, performance artist and producer, she is the 2013 Alain Locke Award Recipient from the <org value="ACORN:2353666272" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit Institute of Arts</org>. Moore is the author of The Words Don't Fit in My Mouth, The Alphabet Verses The Ghetto, God is Not an American, Sunlight Through Bullet Holes, and a forthcoming memoir, Love is Not The Enemy. Her poetry has been heard on stages like Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center and the <org>London Institute of Contemporary Arts</org>. A dedicated literary activist, she is also an accomplished music artist, and recently signed to emcee <person>Talib Kweli's</person> Javotti Label. Jessica is set to release her first Jazz Soul Music album, Black Tea- The Legend of <person>Jessi James</person> this summer.Born in <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location>, Jessica Care Moore first came to national prominence when she won on the legendary "It's <org>Showtime</org> at the Apollo" competition a record breaking five times in a row. Her searing performance of the poem "Black Statue of Liberty" earned Moore several meetings with high profile publishing companies, but in 1997, she paved her own path and launched a publishing company of her own, <person>Moore Black Press</person>.Dr. <person>Cheryl C. Munday</person>Associate Professor of PsychologyDirector of <org>Psychology Clinic</org><org value="ACORN:0945155961" idsrc="xmltag.org">University of Detroit Mercy</org>Dr. <person>Cherly Munday</person> joined as a board member to the Detroit Wayne Mental Health Authotrity in 2013, serving as its only clinical psychologist. She is also an Associate Professor of Psychology at the <org value="ACORN:0945155961" idsrc="xmltag.org">University of Detroit Mercy</org> and director of the university's psychology training clinic, which offers psychotherapy and assessment services to adults and children as young as three. She teaches case conference child therapy and professional ethics in the doctoral program and personality theory in the undergraduate major program. Her research has been funded by the <org value="ACORN:0760355216" idsrc="xmltag.org">United Way</org> and the <org value="ACORN:2597949542" idsrc="xmltag.org">National Institute of Mental Health</org>.<person>Dr. Munday</person> is the former Director of Psychology and Psycholog Tranning at <org>Detroit Psychiatric Institute</org>, and is currently Director, <org>University of Detroit Mercy Psychology Clinic</org> and Affiliated Faculty, <org>Program for Research</org> on Black Americans, <org>Institute for Social Research</org>. Dc Munday earned her B.A. degree from <org value="ACORN:4055782917" idsrc="xmltag.org">Cornell University</org> and her graduate degrees from the <org>University of Michigan</org>.<person>Pamela Parrish</person>Chief Legal CounselTransactions & Economic Development<location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">City of Detroit</location><person>Mrs. Parrish</person> currently serves in <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location> Mayor <person>Michael Duggan's</person> administration as Chief Counsel for Transactions and Economic Development. In this role, <person>Mrs. Parrish</person> manages the Contracts and Real Property sections of the <org>Office of the Corporation Counsel</org>. These sections support the Mayor's efforts to improve government services as well as provide legal advice necessary for new commercial (office, retail and hotel), industrial, and single and multi-family residential developments in the <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">City of Detroit</location>. Prior to working for the City, <person>Mrs. Parrish</person> practiced law in the public and private sectors and worked in senior manager and executive positions in the automotive industry. She has also taught at <org>Cooley Law School</org>. She is an active community leader and is a member of Jack & Jill of <org>America and The Links Incorporated</org>. She is also a past board member of Beyond Basics, a student-centered, literacy non-profit and Boys Hope Girls Hope.She lives in <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location> with her husband and two sons.<person>Janet Patterson</person>Chief Executive Officer and PresidentPathways to Self DeterminationOver twenty years ago, <person>Janet Patterson</person> resolved to commit herself to serving disadvantaged populations in the community. Dedicated to joining Individuals in their journey, she founded what is now Pathways to <org>Self-Determination LLC</org>, which provides treatment services to the chronic and persistent mentally ill in the metropolitan <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location> area. Pathways has offered unique opportunities to hundreds of individuals, part of an often maltreated and oppressed population, which have improved their quality of life Through volunteer opportunities, educational and vocational programs, life skills training and motivational Intervention programs, Pathways has provided hope, stability and promise to many. Patterson's vision continues to be implemented in out patient treatment programs and over 12 residential facilities in the community, employing over 125 residents of <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location>. In addition to her work with Pathways, Patterson founded Adolescents in Motion (now Adults and Adolescents in Motion) to combat various Issues facing youth, including sex trafficking, displacement and juvenile delinquency.Dr. <person>Peggy Richardson</person>, MDMedical Director<org value="ACORN:1612762139" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries</org><person>Peggy Richardson</person>, MD, is medical director of SAY. <org>Detroit Family Clinic</org>, a free clinic for uninsured women and children in the <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location> Metropolitan area. To make S.A.Y. <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location> the best clinic in America, <person>Dr. Richardson</person> networks with many community and health organizations. She cites <org>Beaumont Hospital</org> as a major contributor, providing medical equipment, consultations, and other laboratory services. <person>Dr. Richardson</person> also has developed an educational program, which involves students in medical, pharmacy and health sciences programs from area colleges and universities, including <org value="ACORN:2173237580" idsrc="xmltag.org">Wayne State University</org> (WSU). <person>Dr. Richardson</person> is a graduate of <org>WSU's School of Medicine</org> and completed her residency in Internal Medicine at <org>Henry Ford Hospital</org>. She practiced emergency medicine before entering private practice in 1984. Today, she runs a private practice called Preferred Medical Professionals and she also offers a free weight loss and nutrition program for the surrounding community. All located in the <org>S.A.Y. Detroit Clinic</org> building.<person>Charisse Ross</person>Director of Human Resources and Operations<org>Detroit Area Agency on Aging</org>Charisse is the Human Resource and Operations Director for <org>Detroit Area Agency on Aging</org>. She is originally from <location value="LU/us.mi.poniac" idsrc="xmltag.org">Pontiac, Michigan</location> where she worked as an Administrator and Director achieving goals of obtaining more than <money>$500,000</money> in government and local grants for human service and housing projects. Charisse served as a panelist for the <org>Michigan Affordable Housing Conference</org> on the topic of self -sufficiency and sustainability.Her work at DAAA includes establishing partnerships to help <org>Mature Workers</org> obtain gainful employment in <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location> and assisting with overall organizational enhancement through CARF (<org>Commission on Accreditation</org> or Rehabilitation Facilities) accreditation. She serves on several committees including the Health and Safety committee, <org>Staffing Development</org>, and quality improvement of workflow processes and procedures in the Operations. Charisse is a certi" fied Human Resource Professional (PHR) and member of the <org>Society of Human Resource Management</org>. She earned her Master's Degree in <org>Public Administration</org> from <org value="ACORN:0043438132" idsrc="xmltag.org">Central Michigan University</org> and her Bachelor's Degree from <org value="ACORN:1591267308" idsrc="xmltag.org">Concordia University</org> in <location value="LU/us.mi.annarb" idsrc="xmltag.org">Ann Arbor, Michigan</location>.<org>Dr. Cynthia Shell-Lane</org>Chief Executive QXfcerElan Anti-Aging &Congevity<org>Dr. Cynthia Shelby-Lane</org> is a comedienne, anti-aging specialist and talk show host who believes laughter is good medicine. As the creator of CASL. (<org>Cynthia Ann Shelby-Lane</org>) <org>Productions, Inc.</org>, she combines her two passions: laughter and medicine.<org>Shelby-Lane</org>, MD ivrfationally recognized as a keynote speaker, trainer, and consultant at conferences and events promoting the health benefits of humor. A practiciruyphyslcian and experienced stand-up comethenne, her high energy, laugh-out-loud programs are as entertaining as they are informative in » delivering her important message.In continuing her researcher. <org>Shelby-Lane</org> earned certification as a "Happiness Master," qualifying her to speak about the "Seyen Habits of Happy People." She is dedicated to encouraging others in the pursuit of happiness, addreassing mental health issues, and promoting her strong belief of "Laugh More/ Live Longer."<org>Dr. Shelby-Lane</org> is a favorite television and radio guest who educates listeners on a variety of health issues. On her own radio series, "<org>Dr. Shelby-Lane & The Medicine Show</org>," she emphasizes the therapeutic and-nealing power of laughter. <org>Shelby-Lane</org> has joined forces with a team of <location value="LU/us.ca.hollyw" idsrc="xmltag.org">Hollywood</location> producers and filmmakers for <a href="http://LaughMD.com">LaughMD.com</a>, which is dedicated to bringing humor into hospitals. The goal is to prove humor is healthful for patients, family and staff. Another aspect of her career is working with Dr. Patch <location value="LU/us.oh.adams" idsrc="xmltag.org">Adams</location> and his innovative Gesundheit! Institute (<a href="http://www.patchadams.org">www.patchadams.org</a>) to carry their message of healthful laughter worldwide. Her motto: "Keep laughing!"<person>Ayanna Smith</person>Chief Financial Officer<org>Detroit Jazz Festival</org>AyannaNSmith is a non-profit professional with over thirteen years' experience in publioqducation and the performing arts arenas. Earning ten consecutive annual unmodified audits, she ensures the soundness of an organizations' financial and operaranal arm with her strong work ethic and comprehensive understanding of financial and accounting practices.Smith has successfully implemented processes and procedures for organizations of various sizes, contributing to the success of numerous entrepreneurial efforts, start-ups and organization's undergoing restructuring.In 2012, Ayanna became an independent consultant to severarfcmall businesses and thus joined the <org>Detroit Jazz Festival</org> as a permanent fixture in the finance office. As Chief Financial Officer, she assists the COO on all strategic and tactical matters as they relate to budget management, cost benefit analysis, cash forecasting and the organizations' revenue model.Currently she serves on the boards of two organizations; <org>Wayne State Universtty School of Business Administration Alumni Association Board</org> (Vice President of Member Engagement and <org>LaShelle's School</org><org>of Dance Foundation</org> (Treasurer).Ayanna studied at <org value="ACORN:2173237580" idsrc="xmltag.org">Wayne State University</org> in <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit, Michigan</location> and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance.<person>Donna Stallings</person>Director of Community Affairs and Government RelationsWalker-Miller Energy Services<person>Donna Stallings</person>, a visionary leader and executive strategist, served as president of SYNC Technologies for fifteen years. Stallings proudly joined forces with Walker-Miller Energy Services (WMES) as Director of Community Affairs and Government Relations, bringing extensive experience to current business endeavors, while monitoring key legislative activities that affect the Energy Industry and community at large. Donna represents WMES' community affairs in the Southeastern region by identifying business prospects and maintaining executive, political, community and media relationships.Stallings, a prolific ordained minister, mother, author and humanitarian, is active in the community and a board member for organizations such as: WAVE'S Fundraising Chair, Co-chair of NAACP Dinner, <org>MANNA Development Housing Corporation</org>, <location value="LU/us.mi.wayne" idsrc="xmltag.org">Wayne County</location> Sheriff Youth & Seniors, AABE. Michigan Black Chamber, and "Chosen Generation" <location>Camp Pastor</location>.Stallings is National Director of True Value of a Women Network, an empowerment speaker traveling to over nine nations, advisor to "IMAGINE Mentoring At-Risk Girls" and "PECN Women's Network," and partner with homeless shelters, churches and non-profits where her empowering message impacts lives.Awards include "Business Woman of the Year" from the ABWA, "25 Minority Women in Business Award" by MEEC in <location value="LU/us.dc.wash" idsrc="xmltag.org">Washington, D.C.</location>, recognition in <org>Crains and Detroit News</org> as People on the Move. "<person>Patricia Stewart</person>Founder & President<org>Brooke Personal Development Center & Parent Network</org><person>Patricia Stewart</person> graduated from <org>Chadsey High</org>. She earned a Degree in Special Education and a Masters in Counseling. In 2005, she retired from <org>Detroit Public Schools</org>. <person>Mrs. Stewart</person> began her career as a teacher. After teaching she decided to pursue a position as a School Counselor. Today she supports others as Founder of the <org>Brooke Development Center</org>.In addition to her professional accomplishments <person>Mrs. Stewart</person> also serves in her church. Her commitment to helping others is very evident in her leadership within her church. <person>Mrs. Stewart</person> has also authored two books.The motivation to write these books came after a life-changing event for <person>Mrs. Stewart</person>. In 2009 she suffered a stroke. <person>Mrs. Stewart</person> wanted to communicate the message that we are victorious through Christ in All situations. Her testimony has inspired many and her efforts of helping others continue as she leads the Parent Prayer Network. <person>Mrs. Stewart</person> continues to serve her community and church by living a powerful example of how one can do All things through Christ.<person>Robin R. Terry</person>Chairman - <org>Board of Trustees</org><org>Motown Historical Museum</org>Robin is the Chairman and CEO of <org>Motown Museum</org>, a cultural gem founded in 1985 by her grandmother, the late <person>Esther Gordy Edwards</person>. Mr,. Edwards was a senior executive for <org>Motown Record Corporation</org> and sister of the company's founder, <person>Berry Gordy</person>.As Board Chair Robin is responsible for providing vision, leadership, protecting the institutions assets, and bringing forth resources to advance the mission of <org>Motown Museum</org>, located at <org>Hitsville USA</org>.Robin spent over ten years working in the <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location> community in the fields of Public Relations and <org>Fund Development</org>. In her position as a fundraiser for Focus Hope she had the distinct pleasure of working with the organization's co-founder, the late <person>Eleanor Josaitis</person>.Robin holds a position on the Board of Directors for the <org>Detroit Metropolitan Convention and Visitors</org>" Bureau and also serves as a Trustee on the Child Safe Michigan Board, an affiliate of the Judson Center She is also member of the <org>Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.</org>A graduate of <org value="ACORN:0629331028" idsrc="xmltag.org">Eastern Michigan University</org>, Robin's is married to <person>Curtis Terry, Sr.</person> and together they have two beautiful children Fawn and Curtis, Jr.<person>Cynthia A. Thomas</person>Executive Director, General Retirement System, Police & FireRetirement System<location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">City of Detroit</location><person>Cynthia Abrams Thomas</person> is the current Executive Director of the Retirement Systems of the <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">City of Detroit</location>. With over 5B in assets, the combined systems for uniformed and non-uniformed employees serve over 30,000 active and retired members and beneficiaries. <person>Ms. Thomas</person> and her dedicated staff worked tirelessly to maintain operations while assisting with the historic bankruptcy of the <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">City of Detroit</location>. <person>Ms. Thomas</person> has worked for the Retirement Systems of the <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">City of Detroit</location> in various capacities for over 28 years.<person>Ms. Thomas</person> is a member of the DPS, graduating from <org>Mumford High School</org> in 1981. She received her Bachelor's degree in Accounting from <org>Hampton Institute</org> in <location value="LS/us.va" idsrc="xmltag.org">Virginia</location>. <person>Ms. Thomas</person> is currently a Masters candidate enrolled in <org value="ACORN:0043438132" idsrc="xmltag.org">Central Michigan University</org> for <org>Public Administration</org>.<person>Ms. Thomas</person>, as a member of the <org>National Association of Securities Professionals Detroit Chapter</org> was recognized as recipient of the Unsung Hero award in 2011.<person>Vickie Thomas</person><org>City Beat Reporter</org><org value="ACORN:0914553548" idsrc="xmltag.org">CBS Radio</org>/WWJ 950<person>Vickie Thomas</person> is the <org>City Beat Reporter</org> for WWJ Newsradio 950, a <org value="NYSE:CBS" idsrc="xmltag.org">CBS</org> owned all news radio station.In 1991, Thomas joined WWJ Newsradio 950. Throughout her radio career she has earned awards from the <org>Detroit Press Foundation</org>, the <org>Michigan Association of Broadcasters</org>, the <org>Michigan Associated Press</org> and the <org>National Association of Black Journalists</org>. Thomas was honored with a first place in Individual Reporting during the 1998 Associated Press Michigan Broadcast Awards Contest. She also has received the national "Gabriel Award" from <org>UNDA-USA</org> for the WWJ black history month series "<org>The African-American Church</org>: The Heart and Soul of Metro Detroit's <location value="LU/us.mo.black" idsrc="xmltag.org">Black Community</location>."Thomas is a member of the <org>National Association of Black Journalists</org> and was elected to the board in August of 2013 to serve as Region IV Director. She served as President of the <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location> chapter of NABJ for two terms, from 2010 to 2013. Thomas started a scholarship and internship program for college students interested in the field of broadcast news, while serving as Vice President of the <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location> chapter. The highlight of her academic career was as an intern in Congressman <person>Louis Stokes'</person> office on <org>Capitol Hill</org> where she was instrumental in getting commemorative legislation passed honoring Olympic Gold Medalist <person>Jesse Owens</person>.Camille Walker BahksExecutive Dir<org value="NYSE:GS" idsrc="xmltag.org">Goldman Sachs</org> 10,000 Small Business ProgramWayne State University Officer of Economic Development Camille Walker Banks is a respeefed advisor to small and large businesses specializing in business development and project management. She is executive director of <org value="NYSE:GS" idsrc="xmltag.org">the Goldman Sachs</org> 10,000 Small Businesses program at <org value="ACORN:2173237580" idsrc="xmltag.org">Wayne State University</org>, an educational program that grows small businesses.A dedicated ecjjnomic development professional, Camille implemented key state and local initiatives around economic development and community revitalization resulting in over <money>$4B</money> in new capital investment and over 5,000 new jobs created during the economic downturn.Camille's 18-year career has a strong foundation in finance and marketing that spans across a variety of industries with Fortune 500 firms and government such as <org value="ACORN:1897867375" idsrc="xmltag.org">Michigan Economic Development Corporation</org>, KPMG-DetFOlt, <org>Chrysler Corporation</org> and <org>AT&T Capital</org>. Camille holds a BS in Business Administration and Master of Urban Planning from <org value="ACORN:2173237580" idsrc="xmltag.org">Wayne State University</org>. She serves her community as a member of Aiplia Kappa Alpha Sorority Ine, on the boards of <org>Highland Park Business Association</org> and Michigan Sings.<person>Felicia Wasson</person>Director, <org>Public Affairs & Communications</org><org value="NYSE:KO" idsrc="xmltag.org">The Coca-Cola Company</org><person>Felicia Turrentine Wasson</person> is a Government/Public Relations professional with over 2 years of public and private sector experience. She is the Director of <org>Public Affairs & Communications</org> for the world's most recognizable brand, <org value="NYSE:KO" idsrc="xmltag.org">The Coca-Cola Company</org>. Her previous positions include: <org value="ACORN:1794373575" idsrc="xmltag.org">Michigan State Senate</org> Chief of St. John Health Public Policy Director and MRP Michigan State Government affairs Director.Felicia holds a Bachelor of Arts from <org value="ACORN:2490466742" idsrc="xmltag.org">Michigan State University</org> and a Master of <org>Public Administration</org> from <org value="ACORN:0978142717" idsrc="xmltag.org">Western Michigan University</org>. Her service includes: Board of Directors for <org>Sparrow Specialty Hospital</org> in <location value="LU/us.mi.lansin" idsrc="xmltag.org">LanSing</location>, Ml, <org>The Oakland County Chapter of Jack</org> and <org>Jill of America, Incorporated</org>, The Renaissance Chapwc of <org>The Links, Incorporated</org>, <org>The Southfield Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority</org>, Incorporatecd, Minority Males for <org value="ACORN:1700294758" idsrc="xmltag.org">Higher Education</org> and the <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location> Branch NAACP. She is a proud member of Second "<org>Spenzer Church</org> in <location value="LU/us.mi.detrit" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit</location>.Her proudest accomplishments are her 3 sons: Joshua, Isaiah and Evan.<person>Ayanna C. Weber</person>Director of Human Resources Operations<org value="ACORN:0659858257" idsrc="xmltag.org">Detroit Medical Center</org>It's rare to find the perfect mix of passion and experience. With 17 years in human resources and legal consulting, <person>Ayanna C. Weber</person>, Director of Human Resources for <org>DMC Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital</org> and <org>University Laboratories</org>, is one of those executives. With expertise in executive coaching and strategic planning, Ayanna provides senior-level guidance in operations and leader development. Ayanna has experience in both the boardroom and courtroom. For 10 years, she practiced as a litigation attorney in employment law and general liability. Ayanna has served as Corporation Counsel for a non-profit and as a Labor Relations Consultant, where she successfully represented businesses as lead contract negotiator. In 2006, she earned a real estate license. As a youth advocate, Ayanna served as Attorney Ad Litem for <org>Children's Right Clinic</org>, and volunteered at <org>Catholic Charities</org>, <org>Reggie McKenzie Foundation</org>, and <org>Detroit Urban League</org>. She enjoys travelling, performance arts, and is an, alumni recruiter for Texas Law.<person>Deneen Whitaker</person>Assistant Director<org>UAW-Ford Benefits Department</org>With 26 years of experience at <org value="NYSE:F" idsrc="xmltag.org">Ford Motor Company</org>, Deneen has successfully held several positions within UAW-Ford. 1997-2007, she was the Education and Training Coordinator for the UAW hourly workforce at the Ford Rouge Site in <location value="LU/us.mi.deaorn" idsrc="xmltag.org">Dearborn</location>, Ml. In 2007, she became the UAW-Ford Benefits Representative at the Diversified Manufacturing Plant where she provided representation for UAW membership regarding Healthcare and employee benefits.In 2010, she joined the <org>UAW International</org> Staff, where she is currently the Assistant Director, for the <org>UAW-Ford Benefits Department</org> under the leadership of UAW Vice-President <person>Jimmy Settles</person>. Her community involvement includes <org>NAACP</org> membership, <org>Coalition of Black Trade Unionists</org> (CBTU), Charity Support for the <org>Penrickton School for Blind Children</org> and <org>Union Grace Church</org>.Deneen has earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from the <org value="ACORN:0945155961" idsrc="xmltag.org">University of Detroit Mercy</org> and a Master's Degree in <org>Public Administration</org> from <org value="ACORN:0629331028" idsrc="xmltag.org">Eastern Michigan University</org>. She is married and has 2 children.<person>Jacqueline Wilson</person>First Lady & Director of HIGH Program<org value="ACORN:2173237580" idsrc="xmltag.org">Wayne State University</org><person>Jacqueline Wilson</person> is <org>Wayne Stat University's</org> first lady and a longtime advocate of health, safety and prosperityIn 2013, Wilson founded Wayne State's Helping Individuals Go Higher (HIGH) Program after learning of homeless students who persisted in obtaining their education while struggling to secure life's most basic needs. The HIGH Program strives to ensure that no student abandons the dream of a degree solely because of housing or financial challenges.Wilson's past service toward supporting ethnically diverse communities includes the <org>Professional Communications Association of Los Angeles</org>, the <org>Magic Johnson Foundation</org> and the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS.F6undation.A <location value="LU/us.tx.dallas" idsrc="xmltag.org">Dallas, Texas</location>, native and clean-living enthusiast, Wilson was an energy consultant for <org value="EuronextParis:SU" idsrc="xmltag.org">Schneider Electric</org>, a global leadef in energy management and spent more than two decades in technology business development.Today- in addition to her far-reaching work on behalf of Wayne State, she owns and operates Jacqueline Page Skincare & Cosmetics, toward enabling women of all complexions and ages to celebrate their beauty and style.

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