Imagine an evening filled with powerful narratives, engaging discussions, and a community eager to learn and grow together. By attending, you'll not only gain a deeper understanding of important issues but also contribute to a movement towards positive change and empowerment in the Black community. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this vital conversation.
SBM Speaker Bios - Speaker Introductions
1 - Community Activists and Leaders
Dr. Chris Burton: "Welcome our host, Dr. Chris Burton, an anti-racism consultant, educator, and a fervent advocate for abolitionist theology justice. Dr. Burton brings his rich experience in community activism and his scholarly insights into racial equality to guide today's discussions."
Calvin Rich: "Meet Calvin Baldwin, our host and a senior enterprise community architect and engineer. Beyond his tech geekiness, I am is deeply involved in community activism, using his platform to bridge technology with social change."
2 - Ministers and Spiritual Leaders
Rev. JerQuentin Sutton: "Reverend JerQuentin Sutton, a senior pastor and community leader, will share his experiences in spiritual leadership and community building, vital for nurturing supportive community networks."
Reverend Dr. Brian C. Ellis-Gibbs - Please welcome Reverend Dr. Brian C. Ellis-Gibbs, the esteemed pastor of Queens Baptist Church and a committed social justice advocate with over 30 years in ministry. A Morehouse College alumnus with advanced degrees from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary and New York Theological Seminary, Deacon Earle Manhertz:
"Deacon Earle Manhertz, a community deacon and spiritual leader, offers his profound insights into the role of spiritual guidance in personal and community growth."
3 - Educators and Scholars
Dr. Daryl Green: "Dr. Daryl Green, Dean of the Langston School of Business and a leader in business education and community economic empowerment, will share strategies for nurturing economic resilience and leadership within the Black community."
Dr. Timothy E. Nelson: "Dr. Timothy E. Nelson, a historian and educational program developer. His background in U.S. history and education brings a profound perspective on the evolution of Black identity and education."
Curtis Bracey: Curtis Bracy, known as the "Kingdom Warfare Preacher," is a licensed therapist and college professor dedicated to addressing systemic racism and injustice. Specializing in self-esteem, Black trauma, and suicidality, he holds a master's in Counseling and is completing a doctoral degree in Christian Counseling. His dissertation, “Suicide Among Kingdom Believer’s in the Black Church,” is set to be published soon.
4 - Artists and Cultural Commentators
Dr. de’Angelo Dia: "Dr. de’Angelo Dia, a poet, theologian, and cultural scholar, brings his unique blend of arts and theology to our panel, enriching our dialogue with insights on cultural expression and spiritual life."
Sweet Lu Olutosin: "Sweet Lu Olutosin, jazz vocalist, lyricist, and composer, graces our panel. His journey through music and storytelling highlights the power of the arts in cultural dialogue"
Dr. Leroy C. McKenzie Jr. is the President/CEO of JNF Enterprises, LLC, a business consulting firm in Baltimore. A graduate of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, he holds an honorary doctorate in Humanities. Dr. McKenzie, an author of 12 books, empowers organizations with tools for branding, leadership, and productivity. His motto: "Build the impact, change the world."
5 - Health Professionals
Diallo Smith, My name is Diallo Smith. I have dedicated my career to working in counseling settings within churches and clinics, aiming to support Black male individuals and couples through their mental health journeys. Currently, I serve as a mental health coach at a private practice in Raleigh, NC, and also work as a Behavioral Health Clinician at One Medical. I primarily focus on Men’s issues, Church Hurt, and Depression in men in my work.
6 - Coaches and Personal Development Experts
Derrick Jones - Derrick Jones is a Certified Relationship and Self-Healing Coach, Mental Health Advocate, and NASA Engineer. His Relationship Gumbo brand is a coaching platform that focuses on helping you find the ingredients to becoming a better version of YOU during your dating or relationship journey.
Ellard "Coach ELL" Thomas, MBA: - “Please welcome Ellard 'Coach ELL' Thomas, MBA, a dynamic director, author, and professional development coach. Coach ELL is renowned for his magnetic presence and transformative speaking engagements that motivate and inspire. His journey of resilience and success provides powerful lessons on personal and professional greatness.
Eric B. McLoyd: "Eric B. McLoyd, a financial consultant specializing in services for high-earning professionals, will explore the critical aspects of financial literacy and economic empowerment within the Black community."
Kenneth Johnson: Kenneth L. Johnson, President of East Coast Executives, excels in Diversity Recruitment and Career Services. Awarded as the 2022 Business Leader of the Year by The National Diversity Council and recognized by Black Enterprise Magazine and Forbes, Kenneth influences the industry deeply. He’s a TEDx Speaker, runs TEDxHarlem, and facilitates Google OnAir Workshops. He founded blkbox.tech to aid the career growth of Black men and is a finalist for the 2024 Black Tech Awards Lifetime Achievement Award.
7 - Legal and Mediation Experts
Dr. Lonnie Woods Esq.: "Dr. Lonnie Woods, an attorney and expert in law and mediation, is here to discuss the intersection of law and community engagement. His experience will guide our understanding of legal frameworks in societal structures."
Dr. Ralph Steele: "Introducing Dr. Ralph Steele, a law mediation expert and international speaker on civility and mediation. Dr. Steele’s global perspective on conflict resolution will add depth to our discussions on community relations."
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