9th Annual
National Career Mastered Women’s History Leadership Diversity
Summit & Awards
IMPACT: I’m Still Standing
Advancing Today’s Global Career Woman
The Whitley Hotel, Atlanta GA
Host: Linwick & Associates, LLC
Join us for Career Mastered 9th year of celebrating the power of women. The 2023 Leadership Diversity Summit & Awards is an event not just for women, but for everyone who wants to champion the advancement of women.
A can’t-miss event filled with inspiration, education, and celebration. As an attendee, you will strengthen your leadership skills, build a sense of empowerment, and expand your network at this premier gathering. You’ll be inspired and gain invaluable knowledge that can positively influence you and your organization to benefit you throughout your professional journey.
Featuring prominent keynote presentations by distinguished alumni honorees, thought leaders, firebrands, and executives, this immersive event is sure to motivate you no matter what industry you’re in or where you are on your career path.
The Career Mastered Leadership Diversity Summit & Awards is a transformative experience designed to inspire action. In the on-site interactive two- and one-half days, you can gain the inspiration and skills to aspire higher and learn ways to advance your growth as a leader.
Presenting some of the distinguished thought leaders, firebrands, and executives who will be speaking and/ or honored at this event.
Note: Speakers Could Change Due To Covid - 19
Michele T. Ghee is President, Multicultural Advertising, Allen Media Group. A transformational leader, she has worked for some of the most powerful companies in the world including WME, CNN, A&E, The History Channel, Ebony, and BET Networks. While at BET, Michele created and ran the first and only network for black women: BETHer. She began her career at SBC Communications in Oakland, California. Ghee is an expert in the following areas: thought leadership, culture, strategy, customer service, revenue generation, and relationship building. Ghee has received numerous honors. She is the author of three books.
Chelsea Jackson, Director, Bain & Company
Jacinda Jacobs is a Media Guru with 20+ years in Radio & Television. Since 2014, she has graced the basketball court as an in-Arena Host for the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets. She’s also a 2x NBA All Star Host. She’s the Co-Host for, “The Flyty and Jacinda Show” on V1019-FM alongside her husband and forever co-host, Flyty. She’s appeared the Own Network in, “To Have Charlotte”. She is also the spokesperson for multiple regional businesses as well as hosted a slew of national events for large corporations from Truist Financial, Bank of America, ACC, CIAA, etc. Jacinda is the author of an Amazon #1 Best Seller called, Uniquely Qualified. Jacinda is the Executive Director for a nonprofit ministry called, Stolen Lunches, which means to Steal Away & Be Fed By God.
Molly Grantham is a three-time EMMY-award-winning journalist and the anchor of WBTV News at 5pm, 6pm, and the solo-anchor of our 11pm show. She has been named "TV News Reporter of the Year" for both Carolinas, one of Mecklenburg County’s “50 Most Influential Women,” and "Charlottean of the Year," by Charlotte Magazine. Molly has written two popular books, is often asked to speak to both corporate and women's groups, is a leader in social media, and is heavily involved in the Charlotte community.
Karen Swensen is the owner and founder of Life's About Change, an ecommerce female-owned business designed to help people successfully navigate life's challenges through inspirational gifts created by artisans whose lives personify our mantra. Karen has won more than ten Emmy and six Edward R. Murrow regional awards, along with numerous Gracie, Gabriel, Associated Press and Press Club Awards for investigative journalism, writing and feature reporting. She currently contributes a monthly "Changing Chapters" segment on the Today Show with Hoda and Jenna.
Jasmine Crowe-Houston is a social entrepreneur and the founder of Goodr, a startup based in Atlanta, Georgia that is leveraging technology to combat hunger and food waste.Goodr collects surplus food from organizations like Turner Broadcasting Systems, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, and others, and redirects that food to nonprofits who distribute the food to people experiencing food insecurity. The company also works directly with cities and governments to purchase quality food for certain communities.
As Head of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and People Analytics for Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA), Erica J. Bolden designs talent management and community outreach initiatives to strengthen Mercedes-Benz Group AG’s global DEI commitment. This includes structuring employment, data analysis, dealer network development, marketing, and philanthropic initiatives for the U.S. and Canada that execute overarching diversity, community and social engagement strategies.
Nesha is the Managing Member of Pai, CPA PLLC. Nesha started her accounting career in 1993, at then Big 6 firm, Arthur Andersen and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from North Carolina State University. She is licensed in N.C. and her license number is 24085. She is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the North Carolina Association of Certified Public Accountants.
Wykeeta Peel is Market Manager of the company’s African American Market Unit (AAMU). The AAMU is New York Life’s team of managers and agents focused on financially empowering and uplifting Black communities by creating generational wealth. Ms. Peel is responsible for developing and executing New York Life's targeted recruiting, sales, and marketing campaigns within the Black community on a national scale. She also leads the Women’s Market strategy for New York Life as well.
Mycah Slade is an associate engineer at ITC Holdings Corp., the largest independent electricity transmission company in the United States. In this role, she provides transmission grid solutions that help improve and maintain the high voltage transmission infrastructure in the Michigan and Iowa footprint. Mycah joined ITC in 2018 as an intern, where her primary responsibility was to assist and collaborate with other engineers and departments on creation of conceptual transmission line designs. A recent graduate of Wayne State University, Mycah earned her Bachelor of Science in civil engineering. Her advocacy of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) careers has earned her the 2017 Career Mastered Excel Village Rising Star award and scholarship.
Dr. Sabrina is a Metro Detroit born, God-fearing woman who realized that she has a gift of talking in a way that helps others resolve their issue and become better people at an early age. She gained all the success after graduating from Cass Tech and then going to Eastern Michigan University. She is determined in her pursuit to reach her destiny. And, being a victim of several tragedies, has only inspired her to help other people understand themselves. She received her Masters Degree at the age of 23. Then, she went on to work at Wayne county before leaving to open up her private practice, and now she has been an entrepreneur since the mid-’90s.
Sr. Vice President & Chief Executive Office Market Operations. A native of Michigan, Denise received her bachelors and masters degrees in health services administration from the University of Michigan before starting her career as a management fellow at Mercy Hospital in Detroit. She has been active in numerous professional groups including serving as president of the National Association of Health Services Executives (NAHSE), one of the premier minority health professional organizations in the United States. Denise is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives.
Alethia Jackson is Senior Vice President, ESG and Chief DEI Officer for Walgreens Boots Alliance. In this role, Alethia leads a combined team of U.S. Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and Corporate Social Responsibility, including health equity, environmental and product sustainability and community giving. Alethia is a highly experienced Government Relations executive with 20 years of success with Walgreens, America’s Health Insurance Plans and National Association of Insurance Commissioners. Throughout her career, Alethia has been recognized for her ability to develop high-impact strategies, structures and partnerships that have shaped public policy, elevated brand identity and advanced corporate and industry policy objectives.
Simon Boag is Co-Founder, ARO Homes. He is a rare combination of creating growth in Corporate C-Suite, Venture Capital and Startups, Lesson Learned; He believes great results come from working with outstanding people on big missions. He is proud of being recognized as a Servant Leader with high integrity.
Lisa Brown, Ph.D., is an automotive industry professional and scholar-practitioner. She has over two decades of automotive experience in customer experience, fixed and sales operations, human resources, and retail marketing. Her academic interests include women's career advancement in male-dominated industries, equity in the workplace, leadership studies, organizational strategy, DEI risk management, and organizational justice. You can find Lisa's research on women's advancement in the automotive industry featured in articles on Forbes.com, Journal of Business Diversity, and Joan Michelson's Electric Ladies podcast. Lisa earned a Ph.D. in Leadership & Organizational Strategy and a Master in Philosophy in Management from Walden University. Additionally, she received a BA in Public Relations and a Master of Arts in communication from Wayne State University.
Melissa serves as Community Affairs Director for the Corporate Responsibility Office (CRO) at Fifth Third Bank. As a member of CRO’s executive leadership team she leads the strategy and execution of internal and external CRO communications, national events, project management and administrative services. Melissa has 20 years of financial industry experience including community development, corporate philanthropy, project and client relationship management, investment bank merger and acquisitions, diversity initiatives and training and development. Melissa holds a Master of Business Administration degree with a concentration in Public Administration and a Bachelor of Business Administration. ha ns served on numerous boards and is a member of The Links, Inc. and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Melissa and her husband, William, live in Columbus (OH) with their two children, William and Laurel.
President of Diversity in Boardrooms, Cindy Burrell contributes over 20 years of executive search expertise with a special focus in recruiting and referring diverse Director Candidates who enhance a company’s growth, profitability, and social responsibility reputation. Since 2014, she is one of the original Founders of the Private Directors Association which now has 20 Chapters nationwide and she serves on the PDA National Board. Since 2016, Cindy is an Advisory Board Member for Skytop Strategies, a worldwide conference company.
Detroiter, Gail Perry-Mason is well known in the securities industry where she has climbed the corporate ladder from receptionist to First Vice President of Investments of Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. The Women’s Informal Network elected her as one of Detroit’s Most Influential Women in the Financial Industry in 1999. She is a sought-after speaker for many corporations, agencies, labor unions, religious groups, non-profit organizations, youth organizations, women’s groups, and schools. She founded and directed the original Money Camp for Teens and the first Youth Investment that is incorporated, in the United States now Money Matters for Youth has instructed youth and has mentored young women that are now professionals in the financial industry. Gail’s book “Girl, Make Your Money Grow”; became a number one seller.
Tonya Rivens is an award-winning Journalist with over 30 years in Radio,10 years in Television and is a feature writer for a monthly publication. Tonya received the 2021 Chan Zuckerberg Grant from the National Association of Black Journalists and is a 2021-2022 North Carolina Equity Media Fellow. She has a BA in Journalism from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. After a lengthy career in Airline Management, Tonya developed a passion for all things radio. As a radio veteran, Rivens has worn the titles of Program Director, Music Director and Community Affairs Director. Her current show, Sounds of Inspiration With Tonya Rivens, is featured on Praise 100.9 FM.
Scarlette is the head of diversity, equity, and inclusion strategy for CNN and Warner Brothers Discovery Sports. In her role, she works with the Chief Diversity Officer to carry out DEI strategy across the organization.
Before pivoting to DEI strategy work full-time, Scarlette spent many years as a TV news producer/journalist. She started out at Fox News Channel while pursuing her Master's degree. From there, Scarlette was a producer and talent booker for the political talk show, Hardball with Chris Matthews. In 2016, she joined CNN as a senior producer for the award-winning show, "The Lead w/ Jake Tapper". During her tenure at CNN, she oversaw guest bookings for daily programming as well as primetime specials. Scarlette is frequently sought after for her expertise in television news. She has guest lectured at some of the most prestigious universities in the country. Scarlette resides outside of Washington D.C in northern Virginia with her husband and three young children. She is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated.
As executive vice president, human resources, Janice Dupré is responsible for the global human resources strategy practices and operations that enable Lowe’s to attract, motivate, develop and retain outstanding associates. She also oversees the company’s corporate communications, community relations, and corporate events planning and execution, and serves as chair of the Lowe’s Foundation. Janice joined Lowe’s as its first chief diversity officer in 2017.
Natalie J. Brown joined Ally in 2018 and is Senior Director of Corporate Citizenship in Charlotte, NC. She is responsible for leading a team that manages Ally’s charitable giving and community affairs initiatives, while also positioning Ally as a corporate social responsibility leader in the community. She leads Ally’s community programming and spearheaded the launch of “Moguls in the Making”, an entrepreneurship pitch competition that helps build the next generation of diverse business leaders from HBCUs. Previously, Natalie worked as a Diversity and Inclusion leader at Duke Energy.
Marsha Thornton is the Head of Supplier Diversity at The Hartford, responsible for leading enterprise-wide Supplier Diversity initiatives and aligning them with business strategies. Her efforts influence economic equality, equity, and inclusion for Minority, Women, Veteran, LGBT+ and Disabled-owned businesses.The Hartford’s diverse supplier engagement strategy includes identifying qualified diverse suppliers and networks, integrating supplier diversity best practices across the business, leading diverse supplier business programs and engaging in cross-functional inclusion initiatives. She also supports The Hartford’s work in CEO Action for Racial Equity focused on Expanding Beyond Supplier Diversity to a Business Diversity Ecosystem.
Melody Marie is a certified personal trainer and athletic trainer, pro fitness competitor, contest prep and posing coach, fitness model and published writer. She loves helping people of all ages and fitness levels achieve their fitness goals, as well as live healthy and active lifestyles. Melody has 17+ years of experience in the fitness industry and was trained and mentored by Master Trainer Carlos Jordan. She currently services clients at Ultimate Bodies by Carlos in Atlanta, GA. Melody is also certified in CPR/AED and First Aid. She studied Pre-Medicine and Drama at Spelman College where she obtained a Bachelor of Arts Degree. Melody has a background in competitive sports where she played volleyball, basketball and track and field throughout her school years.
Dr. Vanessa Tyler is an Emmy award-winning and six-time Emmy nominated reporter/anchor with extensive and impressive broadcast journalism experience. She currently is an Anchor with Black Information Network (BIN). After graduating from Syracuse University, she started her career in one of the toughest news markets in the country at WTTG-TV in Washington, D.C. Along the way, she reported in Rochester, New York and Charlotte, North Carolina. In Dayton, Ohio, Ms. Tyler was ‘the most watched’ solo weekend anchor for the CBS affiliate.
Cubia is Chief Inclusion, Equity, Diversity, and Sustainability Officer, Corewell Health —formerly Beaumont Health and Spectrum Health. He is responsible for inspiring and defining the systemwide transformational and innovative inclusion, equity (inclusive of health equity), diversity and sustainability strategies to drive the organization toward its goals of transforming health for the communities it serves, improving health and health equity, and fostering a culture of belonging. Cubia comes to BHSH System from Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA), where he has served as senior vice president, global chief diversity, equity and inclusion officer since 2017. In this role, he led the development and implementation of an enterprise-wide diversity and inclusion strategy for 400,000 employees in 17 countries.
Darbi is CEO of BCA Culture, who has been influential in the network marketing, tax, technology, and music industry. Her latest venture is BCA Culture, the first ever automated turnkey software that guides entrepreneurs seeking to secure funding and business credit. Since June 2019, BCA Culture has helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs secure $50 Million plus in business credit, grants, and funding.
David Johnson is the Senior Partner of Private Client Group Asset Management. As the lead partner of our team, David is responsible for overseeing portfolio construction as well as much of the direct interaction with our clients and their other trusted advisors. David draws upon his considerable experience in investment planning and management to deliver the finest possible customer service. Prior to founding PCG in January 2009, David was First Vice President of Investments for UBS, Paine Webber and Kidder Peabody for 22 years. In this role, David built a large and loyal client base that we continue to work with today.
Dr. Geneva J. Williams, Ed.D. (Dr. Geneva) is a nationally-renowned leadership strategist and coach who led organizations and raised millions for community causes during a 40+ year career. Now a successful entrepreneur and facilitator, she helps others create impact at any age through her workshops on confidence, business skills, and vibrant living. Dr. Geneva is also a best-selling author, television actress, and podcast host.
Dr. Lisa Wicker is an award-winning, internationally recognized Human Resources Executive and Career Strategist. Founder and CEO of women’s leadership capacity company, Career Mastered, and Publisher of Career Mastered Magazine. Founder of global human resources firm, Linwick & Associates, and host of the Career Mastered Inside Career Success Show for advancing women’s leadership. With a dynamic approach to life and an iconic signature style, Dr. Wicker is a veteran of comprehensive human capital strategies for multi-billion-dollar global organizations.
Eral Burkes is the CEO & Founder of Minority Executive Search. Minority Executive Search, Inc. is an established professional and executive level search firm, providing Corporate America with a diverse pool of candidates across the nation.The company provides nationwide coverage, offering maximum choice and flexibility.
Fabi Preslar is the founder and president of SPARK Publications, a national award-winning, publishing firm specializing in custom magazines associations and independently published non-fiction books to help grow businesses and platforms. Her firm’s publications enhance credibility and distinction. Fabi has been awarded a 2021 Gold Stevie Award for Chief Happiness Officer of the Year, a 2020 FOLIO magazine: Top Women in Media, was inducted into the 2019 North Carolina Women Business Owners Hall of Fame, and the 2018 First-Generation Family Business of the Year by the Charlotte Business Journal, and as Woman Business Owner of the Year by NAWBO Charlotte
Garland is the H.R. Diversity Equity and Inclusion Manager at Food Lion · Food Lion. Garland has over 25 years of experience achieving positive and reliable results in various aspects of Human Resource Management, Business Development, Retail.
Gina Stuart is the Senior Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA). With over 20 years of leadership experience in human resources, including regulatory compliance, HR strategic business partner relations, and diversity, equity & inclusion (DEI), she understands how HR serves as a strategic business partner with the ability to accelerate business results. In her current role she is responsible for the development and deployment of enterprise-wide DEI strategies focused on talent acquisition, career and leadership development and advancement, employee engagement and culture transformation. Her role serves as a thought partner regarding all aspects of DEI, and she works closely with senior leadership and cross functional business partners to integrate DEI strategies and accountability into business operations.
Jacqie McWilliams serves as the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) Commissioner. First female to serve as Commissioner for the CIAA and first appointed African American Commissioner out of 100 Conferences representing NCAA Division I, II and III. Ms. McWilliams spent nine years at the NCAA managing NCAA championships to include both the men’s and women’s Division I Basketball tournaments. She started her career in coaching and administration at Virginia Union University with career growth opportunities at Norfolk State University and Morgan State University prior to the NCAA. She is a member of the Hampton University 1988 NCAA Division II Women’s Basketball Championship team, was inducted into Temple University’s Gallery of Success and the Sierra High School Hall of Fame. She has received numerous awards for her leadership and contributions to the community.
Kimberly Evans is a servant of others, a wife, a mom , a grandmother and loyal friend. As a business owner of over 20 years and an entrepreneur, she is the Founder & CEO of Just Her Rideshare, Inc. a rideshare community of women drivers and riders providing a safe, stress-free rideshare experience.
LaShauna Lowry is an Executive Director at Ally Financial. She is currently an Executive on Loan from the Audit Methodology and Operations at Ally Financial. In the Audit Methodology & Operatins role she is responsible for leading Ally’s Internal Audit Strategy, Methodology and Operations team, providing overall strategic direction, audit methodology and leadership to help foster a productive, cohesive, and robust approach across the various teams that execute audit work. Previously, Lowry served as an Executive Director of Consumer Systems in this role she was the auto servicing business lead on the company’s IT and Digital transformation initiative. This includes creating processes and restructuring a team to support the various system transformations allowing for more flexibility and effectiveness in the business processes. Lowry also served as a Senior Director of Compliance Monitoring at Ally where she was responsible for managing, overseeing and providing strategic direction for Ally’s Compliance Monitoring Program. She has also held roles at Ally in Audit and Auto Operations. Lowry started her career as an Assurance Associate at PriceWaterhouseCoopers. She graduated from Central Michigan University with a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting. Lowry serves on the Advisory Board for Midnight Golf which provides a transformational experience for young people in the Detroit community. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Incorporated and Impact100 Metro Detroit.
Linda Hannah is a Senior Commercial Contract Analyst at ITC Holdings Corp., the largest independent electricity transmission company in the United States. In her role, she is responsible for researching, advising, and interpreting contract terms of operating agreements for interconnection with distribution and transmission utilities. During her time at ITC, Linda worked with a diverse team of colleagues that produced a first-of-its-kind Inclusion & Diversity program, which was later presented to ITC’s Board of Directors and successfully launched the following year. Linda is ITC’s Ambassador for its Career Mastered Sponsorship. Linda earned her Bachelor of General Studies from the University of Michigan-Dearborn and serves as an Officer with Bloomfield Toastmasters. She is also an award-winning speaker, founder of Linda Hannah Speaks and a contributing writer of A Widow’s Resilience.
As Chairman of the Board of IDEAL Industries, Meghan has dedicated her career to working with IDEAL and other family businesses to help them thrive and survive. In 2020, she founded The Lodis Forum, an international peer group of female Board Chairs, Vice-Chairs, and Lead directors to focus on governance excellence and peer exchange after recognizing the uniqueness of women serving senior board leadership roles. Meghan serves on IDEAL Industries and Kingsbury, Inc. boards, the Brightstar Capital Partners Advisory Council, and several not-for-profit boards.
Parkhill Mays is President at STOPit, which is a Software company. Founded in 2014, he is part of the Executive team within the C-Suite. Parkhill graduated from Washington and Lee University.
Sallie Jarosz is a Vice President and Commercial Banking Relationship Manager with First National Bank. In this role, Sallie manages a portfolio of existing client relationships and works to develop new business opportunities throughout the Charlotte Metro Region. Prior to joining First National Bank, Sallie spent four plus years at Park National Bank working in Commercial Lending, specifically in the Commercial Real Estate finance space. Her past experience also includes single tenant credit financing and commercial mortgage banking. Sallie was a co-founder of Grandbridge Real Estate Capital, one of the largest commercial mortgage banking firms in the United States. Sallie is the former President and Board Member of CREW Charlotte.
Tanya Griffith has a zeal to work with those who understand the significance of creating positive change through service to the community, being intentional about Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access (IDEA), and collaborating with like-minded individuals and/or organizations to achieve measurable results.
Inspired by her family legacy and cousin (The late B.B King) Teisha J. Lott-Brown is an actress, singer, model, and director. She is the former third member of Michael Jackson’s Grammy Nominated R&B group Brownstone where she was a vital intricate voice for approximately 15 years. With Brownstone, Teisha shared the stage opening for known groups and singers such as: Frankie Beverly and Maze, Bobby Brown, Ralph Tresvant, Johnny Gill, Dave Hollister, Ja Rule Anthony Hamilton, Tyrese, El DeBarge, Silk among others. Teisha has starred in and toured with hit stage plays such as: Diamond Girls, He Said, She Said, Daddy, I Love Him, if these and Hips Could Talk.
Head of Advancing Black Pathways, JP Morgan Chase
Byna Elliott is Head of Advancing Black Pathways JP Morgan Chase, a nearly two-year-old strategy aimed at strengthening the economic foundation of the Black community. Elliott, is responsible for executing a strategy that aims to help Black people achieve sustained success through targeted investments and programs in four key areas under the firm’s DEI framework: Careers & Skills, Financial Health & Wealth Creation, Business Growth & Entrepreneurship, and Community Development.
Manager, Employee Brand Experience, Delta Air Lines
Carla is Employee Brand Experience Manager. Delta Air Lines. A native of Louisiana, she moved to Tennessee to attend college at Tennessee State University before moving to Chicago then Atlanta, which she now calls home. After graduating with her MBA with an emphasis in Marketing, this Clark Atlanta Alum joined Delta as an International Revenue Management Analyst; she then joined the Onboard Service team in In-Flight Service and managed a number of projects including Onboard Food For Sale, Duty Free, SkySpa Image Centers launch and a host of other projects. As a high school and college athlete, Carla also pursued a calling in sports, where she leveraged athleticism, communication skills and love for basketball to become a Division 1 Women’s Basketball College official. This passion has led her to referee college and semi-pro basketball in multiple conferences and staying connected to the world of sports.
Owner, Dawn Johnson State Farm Insurance Agency
As a champion for connectivity and community impact, Dawn Johnson is a graduate of Florida State University with a degree in Economics. Having had the pleasure of working with State Farm for the last 30 years, 15 years as a company employee and the last 15 as a State Farm agent in Rock Hill, she is committed to community and people development. Serving the Rock Hill community since 2006, The Dawn Johnson State Farm Agency has a team of licensed professionals who create personalized insurance plans that protect both assets and income.
Dr. Tamara Lindsay Roberts is the Executive Director of Excel Village Center for Learning whose mission is to create positive winning futures for girls in grades 5th-12th. Dr. Roberts previously was a tenured professor at Grambling State University and Chair, Department of Education at Stilman College.
“We all have a story to tell. When we allow our stories of triumph over life’s challenges to encourage others - we rob the past of its shame, we fuel the future with gratitude.”
Dr. Toni Flowers is Award-winning Diversity Professional, she is a registered nurse, medical anthropologist, adjunct professor and returning guest lecturer at several prominent universities. She is nationally recognized as a leader and trainer on multiple topics within the scope of diversity strategy and action planning, health equity, cultural competency, organizational culture change and social marketing. She has been honored to provide training and educational sessions to national, regional, and local audiences annually. She was recognized by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for designing and implementing a project that resulted in the greatest reduction of healthcare disparities in the country, a 60.1% reduction. She is a passionate servant leader who genuinely loves people and is committed to the work of equity and social justice.
Executive Director, J P Morgan Chase
Eva Brown is the Advancing Black Pillar Lead for Business Growth & Entrepreneurship and Financial Health based in Chicago. Eva, an executive director, bring 20 years of experience working in the banking industry, along with a passion for assisting underserved businesses. She is currently the chairperson of Greenwood Archer Cap8ital and on the board of the Women’s Business Development Center. Before joining the firm, se served as the segment leader for minority and women-owned businesses for U.S. Bank’s Business Banking Segmentation Strategy Team.
First Vice President, Oppenheimer and Founder Monty Matters for Youth.
Detroiter, Gail Perry-Mason is well known in the securities industry where she has climbed the corporate ladder from receptionist to First Vice President of Investments of Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. The Women’s Informal Network elected her as one of Detroit’s Most Influential Women in the Financial Industry in 1999. She is a sought-after speaker for many corporations, agencies, labor unions, religious groups, non-profit organizations, youth organizations, women’s groups, and schools. She founded and directed the original Money Camp for Teens and the first Youth Investment that is incorporated, in the United States now Money Matters for Youth has instructed youth and has mentored young women that are now professionals in the financial industry. Gail’s book “Girl, Make Your Money Grow”; became a number one seller.
Deputy General Counsel
Deputy General Counsel, Ally Financial. Senior executive with broad capital markets, human resources and legal transactional and litigation case management expertise
Chief Executive Officer and Founder, Leap & Inspire Global
Executive leader. TEDx speaker. Women’s leadership coach, facilitator, and consultant. Equity, inclusion, and diversity facilitator. Author. Researcher.
Deputy CISO - Head BISO/Privacy Officer, Unisys Jennifer Raiford Accomplished Global Chief Security, Compliance & Privacy Officer experienced in the areas of Security, Compliance, Risk, Governance, Privacy, Legal, Information Technology, DRP/BCP/ SIRP, Financial Systems, Internal Audit, Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, Financial Reporting, Project Management Office, Process Architecture Modeling, Process Analysis/Improvement, Accounting/Finance, Strategic Management, Treasury Services, Graphics and Presentations at Executive Management/SVP/Executive Director Level.
Global Sr. Marketing, Manager, Amazon
Jillian Blackwell is currently the Global Sr. Marketing, Communications and Change Management Leader for Amazon's Global Operations Learning and Development (GOLD) organization, developing leadership development programs for leaders across the globe for Amazon Air, Logistics, Transportation Services, Customer Fulfillment, Global Specialty Fulfillment, Physical Stores & Amazon Pharmacy.
Senior Vice President, Bank of America. Karen has over 20 years of experience, working in Global Commercial Banking. Prior to joining the team at Bank of America, Karen worked at Fifth Third Bank, HSBC and Citibank, helping generate significant revenue from lending and non-lending products, including acquisition financing & structuring, global cash management, FX, interest rate and commodity derivatives, trade and supply chain financing. She spent several years working in New York City and Washington DC, and now happy to call Charlotte home.
Inclusion Strategist, Coach, Speaker, Author
Amber Cabral is an Inclusion Strategist, certified coach, speaker and author of Allies and Advocates: Creating an Inclusive and Equitable Culture.
Chief Executive Officer & Founder, Founder, KeepWol
Lauren is an award-winning engineer with 15 years of experience in entrepreneurship, engineering, product creation, software program management, & operations. She’s the first Black woman to receive an Aerospace Engineering degree from the University of Kansas and the first Black woman to win the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) international design competition. She’s a recipient of the Women in Technology Rising Star Award and has an MBA in Operations Management from the University of Scranton. Lauren Founded KeepWOL, a technology company that uses games to unlock the understanding of human behavior, building stronger relationships in the workplace and beyond. She's a wife, a mother of two, and an avid conversationalist. Her top two values are authenticity and legacy.
Chief Financial Officer, Primax Properties
Marie McLucas is the Chief Financial Officer for Primax Properties and is responsible for oversight of policies and procedures for all financial functions, along with strategic and succession planning. Since joining Primax in 1995, Marie has been instrumental in the successful completion of over 1000 projects in 35 states, including 25 projects under development. Marie is a repeat mentor for CBJ’s Mentoring Monday event, CREW’s national and local formal mentor programs and the NCACPA. Marie serves/served on the boards of Girl Scouts, Hornets’ Nest Council, Career Mastered, American Cancer Society (Area) , CREW Charlotte and CREW Network Foundation, holding many chair, officer and co-chair positions. She was recently appointed to the FFTC Cabarrus County Community Foundation Board.
Merriman King is a senior leader at Volkswagen of America, Inc. (VW) with expertise in Region Operations, National Management, and retail Sales Management. He leads the Southeast Region in support of VW’s aggressive growth strategy. Dedicated to the development of top talent, King is passionate about talent development. He mentors women and young professionals, encouraging their professional growth as future leaders within Volkswagen Group of America and beyond.
King earned a BA in Business from Howard University.
Global Business Executive
Michelle is a global business executive with more than 25 years of experience and achievements in Manufacturing and Supply Chain Management. She currently leads the New Product Quality Commercial HVAC Trane Technologies Team, North America.
Head of DEI Worldwide Stores
Modupé is currently the global leader of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for Worldwide Amazon Stores. As the company’s largest organization, this wide-ranging role includes managing DEI for more than one million Amazon employees. She also oversees Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships, Inclusive Marketing, and Social Impact teams for the organization. Modupe’s ability to earn trust and educate on the importance of fairness and equality, while drastically improving customer engagement, has had an overarching positive impact on culture enablement within Amazon ecosystem. She is recognized as a transformational DEI thought leader.
Vice President, Tech & Specialty Support Service
Vice President of Tech & Specialty Support Service, a large global organization with over 4000+ employees responsible for delivering the best in class customer experience, developing strategies that move our business forward, and delivering specialized solutions for our customers.Monica thrives on solving the most complex business problems in today’s tech-heavy/dynamic ecosystem while leading groundbreaking transformational projects that align teams to the overall strategic vision. Monica is passionate about developing people and providing opportunities for development and growth. She prioritizes people by implementing leadership and development programs within her organization. In 2021, Monica was awarded the Verizon Credo Award -- the highest Verizon honor representing Verizon’s cultural principles of integrity, respect, performance excellence, and accountability.
Regional Manager, Mercedes-Benz USA Nichole
Harris has been working as a Southern Region Vans Manager at Mercedes-Benz USA for 18 years. Mercedes-Benz USA is part of the Motor Vehicles industry, and located in Georgia, United States.
President, & CEO Greater Women's Business Council
Roz Lewis is President & CEO of the Greater Women’s Business Council (GWBC®), a regional partner organization of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) and serves on the WBENC board of directors. Receiving invitations from the White House, Lewis has participated in sessions for Council on Women and Girls Entrepreneurs, small business and the Affordable Care Act. She has received numerous awards and featured in magazines and on talk radio, community tv shows
Chief Community Impact Banking Officer, Fifth Third Bank
Jada Grandy-Mock M.B.A. serves as the Chief Community Impact Banking Officer, Fifth Third Bank. She is responsible for leading the Bank's Community Economic Development Program, Community Engagement, C.R.A. Program Compliance, and C.R.A. Lending and Investment Strategies. Jada previously served as a region group director in the community and economic development group. She led the Bank's community development and Community Reinvestment Act (C.R.A.) strategic program initiatives throughout 13 regions.
Lead Human Resources Partner, The Hartford
Suzanne brings to The Hartford nearly 26 years of Human Resources experience with 15 of those years spent here at The Hartford. In her current role as Lead Human Resources partner for Group Benefits and the Corporate Functions, Suzanne is accountable for bringing together a cohesive human capital and talent strategy to meet the dynamic needs of these areas. Prior to this role, Suzanne held various HR leadership roles across the firm such as Chief Talent Officer and including her newest role as the Future of Work HR Lead.
A champion for women in leadership, Kailei (pronounced Ki-Lee) Carr, is the CEO of The Asbury Group, an organization specializing in developing leaders from the inside out. Her signature approach to leadership presence -- which is grounded in one's personal power -- has helped high potential leaders around the globe thrive and advance to the most senior ranks.
Kailei holds an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and a BA from Emory University.
CEO/Founder, Official INK Notary Service
Velita Faulk is founder and CEO of Official Ink Notary Service, Non-Profit Michigan Notaries Unite and Gateway Notary Professional Development.
Please note that these Sessions will be broadcasted On-Demand After the Summit as Concluded.
Agenda & speaker lineup are subject to change.
Opening Reception - White with Bling Sneakers
Summit Dress Attire is Business.
Pink Gallery Reception/Awards Dress Attire is Cocktail.