S.P.A.R.K.
PERCY LY KABIR, 2025-2027 BIENNIUM CHAPTER PRESIDENT
From the Desk of the President
scholar we uplift This month, HMAC continues to move with purpose, unity, and excellence
Celebrating Our Grant Committee
I want to extend heartfelt appreciation to our Grant Committee, whose diligence and expertise continue to elevate HMAC’s presence in the community We are proud to announce that HMAC has been selected as a recipient of the OEP Love Tour Mini Grant, which will directly support and expand our community programming This $2,500 grant installment focuses on social action, with the planned activation scheduled for our To Haiti with Love event. This recognition is a testament to the committee’s strategic research, thoughtful writing, and unwavering commitment to securing resources that strengthen our impact The committee is already preparing responses to another significant grant opportunity that could deepen our service footprint and broaden our reach. Sorors, rest assured our chapter is in capable, visionary hands
Strengthening Our Strategic Partnerships
This month, HMAC continues to deepen our impact through meaningful collaborations with our community partners:
American Heart Association – Our Red Brunch Meal Series is empowering women to prioritize heart health, wellness, and sisterhood Please add the dates and participating restaurants to your calendar and support these Black-owned businesses as they partner with us through profit sharing
Habitat for Humanity – Afro-Fabulous: A Love Supreme
We are proud to support the 2026 Habitat for Humanity Women Build through our AfroFabulous: A Love Supreme celebration This initiative uplifts women, strengthens families, and creates pathways to safe and affordable homeownership
Join us Sunday, February 15, from 2 PM–5 PM at the Harris County ESD 16 Administration Building in Spring,TX as we honor Black love, culture, and collective action $22 Admission | Open to singles and couples - Celebration meets purpose and every contribution helps build stronger communities.
Sparks & Spurs Supreme Weekend – We Need YOU
Sorors, Sparks & Spurs Supreme Weekend is approaching quickly, and this is our moment to shine The committee has been working tirelessly, but we need the full strength of HMAC to step forward.
This week, I will launch a final chapter-wide blitz campaign so you can: Purchase your tickets
Invite your friends, family, coworkers, and fellow Divine Nine members
Spread the word across your networks
This weekend is not just a celebration it is a critical fundraiser that fuels our scholarships and supports the programming that defines our chapter’s legacy Our students are counting on us Our community is counting on us. And as HMAC, our support should shine through boldly and unmistakably
In the Spirit of Black History Month
As we honor the trailblazers who paved the way, let us remember that unity is our strength Service is our calling. And excellence is our standard. Together, we will continue to uplift, empower, and transform lives because that is the heart of who we are
THE BEACON
DR. LYNELL TIPPEN WRIGHT, 1ST VICE PRESIDENT & MEMBERSHIP SERVICES CHAIR
Love Sparks The Way
As we step together into a new season of service and sisterhood, one enduring truth continues to lead us L.O.V.E. Love sparks the way. Nowhere is this more evident than in the heart of Membership Services, where love is expressed through connection, care, and intentional engagement. Membership Services is the spark that helps every soror feel welcomed, supported, and rooted in Houston Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter.
In HMAC, love shows up as we celebrate milestones, honor years of service, and acknowledge each soror’s unique journey. Love is exemplified in warm greetings at chapter meetings, thoughtful outreach, and meaningful connection. Love is not passive; love is intentional. Through Membership Services, love calls us to build bridges between generations, encourage participation, and create spaces where sisterhood can thrive. When we lead with love, we spark engagement, deepen relationships, and foster a sense of belonging that sustains the vitality of HMAC. The Membership Services Committee works to ensure that no soror feels overlooked and that every connection strengthens our collective bond.
As you read this month’s TORCH, reflect on how you can support Membership Services or any other committee, and let love spark your way! Sorors, reach out, stay engaged, and embrace opportunities to connect. Together, guided by love, we continue to strengthen our sisterhood and shine brighter as one HMAC.
With Love and Intention, Dr. Lynell Tippen Wright
1st Vice President Chair, Membership Services
KAMERON BRACKINS, 2ND VICE PRESIDENT AND PP&D
Stronger Together: Why Committee Collaboration Elevates Our Impact
February invites us to reflect on connection—how we build it, nurture it, and use it to create something greater than ourselves. But, connection is more than a feeling; it is a strategy. One of the most powerful ways we strengthen HMAC and amplify our community impact is through intentional collaboration across committees.
Each HMAC committee is rich with talent, passion, and purpose. Individually, they do incredible work aligned with the mission of Delta. Collectively, however, committees have the ability to transform good programming into exceptional, sustainable, and farreaching experiences. Collaboration allows us to pool our strengths, expand our perspectives, stretch our resources, and ensure that our efforts reflect the full breadth of HMAC excellence.
When committees collaborate, programming becomes more holistic. A single event can simultaneously address educational enrichment, economic empowerment, physical and mental health, and advocacy when multiple committees bring their lenses to the table. Collaboration helps ensure that our programs do not operate in silos, but instead reflect the interconnected realities of the communities we serve. This approach deepens impact and creates programming that is thoughtful, inclusive, and responsive.
Collaboration also strengthens sisterhood. Working across committees creates opportunities for sorors to build new relationships, share ideas, and learn from one another. It breaks down barriers, fosters mutual respect, and reminds us that while our committee assignments may differ, our mission is shared. Planning together encourages communication, trust, and a spirit of unity that extends far beyond a single event.
From a practical standpoint, collaboration maximizes resources and efficiency. Shared planning reduces duplication of efforts, allows committees to leverage one another’s networks, and creates space for innovation. It also distributes leadership and workload more evenly, making large-scale or complex programs more manageable and less burdensome for any one committee. When we collaborate, we work smarter—not harder.
[continued on next page]
KAMERON BRACKINS, 2ND VICE PRESIDENT AND PP&D
Stronger Together: Why Committee Collaboration Elevates Our Impact
As we move through 2026, let us be intentional about seeking opportunities to collaborate. Whether through co-sponsored events, shared planning meetings, or cross-committee brainstorming, every partnership strengthens our chapter.
When planning events and programming, let us lean into connection, cooperation, and collective purpose. When HMAC committees collaborate, we do more than plan events we elevate our work, deepen our sisterhood, and expand our impact. Together, we are stronger.
Kameron Brackins
2 Vice President nd Chair, PP&D
THE RECORD & THE REPLY
INSIGHTS FROM YOUR SECRETARIES
PAULA LYRSE, RECORDING SECRETARY & DR. KRISTY LOVE, CORRESPONDING SECRETARY
From the Record
As we continue to honor efficient and effective meetings, here’s a helpful reminder regarding committee reports:
KeepReportsBrief&Purposeful
Committee reports should be a concise summary of committee proceedings. There is no need to report at Chapter Meeting or Executive Board unless there is a motion to be presented (in accordance with Robert’s Rules of Order).
This practice helps our meetings stay focused, allows time for essential business, and ensures that the minutes reflect actions rather than discussions. Thank you, Sorors, for helping us steward our time wisely and keep our chapter records clear and meaningful.
From the Reply
Need a letter written on chapter letterhead? Your Corresponding Secretary is here to help! I’m happy to assist with drafting letters, refining language, and moving correspondence through the approval process in a timely manner.
FriendlyReminder:
All official chapter correspondence must be sent out by the President or her designee. Nothing should be distributed to the public without the President’s review and approval. This ensures our messaging is consistent, accurate, and reflective of the excellence of Houston Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter. Whether it’s a thank-you letter to a community partner, an outreach message, or a formal request, please don’t hesitate to reach out so we can put our best foot and best words forward together.
Arrive
Hostess Committee
C H A P T E R M E E T I N G
R E C A P
HMACbeganthenewyeargatheredinthetruespirit of Delta, focused, intentional, and united in purpose. Sorors came together to handle chapter business, align on strategic goals, and set a clear vision for the months ahead. The energy in the room reflected what makes our sisterhood so special: women committed not only to excellence in service, but to oneanother.
A key highlight of the meeting was the continued promotionofourupcomingHMACScholarshipEvent, a cornerstone of our commitment to educational empowerment. The discussion was thoughtful and forward-thinking, centered on how we can best steward our resources, expand our impact, and continueinvestinginthenextgeneration.ItwasDelta business at its finest, purposeful planning rooted in service.
Following the meeting, the atmosphere shifted into joyfulcelebrationassororshonoredHMACFounders Daywithavibrantgatheringthemed“TheBestofthe Best.”Together,wereflectedonourlegacyandpaid tribute to the trailblazing women whose vision and dedication laid the foundation for our chapter’s continued excellence. There was laughter, storytelling, and a shared sense of pride that only sisterhoodcanbring.
Asia Battles 2/2
Erin Quander 2/4
Jasmine Sammons 2/4
Anika Crayton-Wiley
2/6 Renee Morris 2/8
Tracy Singleton 2/8
Jessica Smith 2/8
Yolanda Kelley 2/9
Nicole Williams 2/10
Janiyah Davis 2/11
Treon Austin 2/12
Angela Courett 2/13
Christian Sherrod 2/13
Nikki Manus 2/15
2/15 Julia Patterson
2/16 Marquetta Giles
2/17 Katrina Aganekwu
2/17 Courtney Smith
2/17 Andrea Wells-Francis
2/18 Jasmine Bailey
2/21 Sonya Stevenson
2/23 Karolyn Williams
2/24 Megan Byrd
2/24 Paula Lyrse
2/24 Andrea Scott
2/26 Gloria Ekezie
2/26 Cynthia Nemons
2/28 Olethia Chisholm
LINE SISTER EDITION
Building on the incredible energy of our initial announcement, the Reclamation Subcommittee is turning up the heat for the month of February. We’ve seen what you can do individually- now, it’s time to see the power of your Line!
For February, we’re calling on every HMAC line to band together for a special iteration of the Ignite the Spark Reclamation Challenge.
The goal remains the same: reclaiming our Sorors and bringing them home to HMAC. However, this month, every visiting Soror you bring helps your line climb the leaderboard.
Howitworks:
1.Reach Out: Connect with inactive sorors and invite them to our General Chapter Meetings or designated public events
2.Check-In: Ensure your visiting soror uses the QR code at the sign-in table. There will be a specific field for them to enter the name of the soror who invited them.
3.The Tally: At the end of February, we will tally the visitors per line.
What’satStake?
The line that demonstrates the most "Spark" by bringing in the highest number of visiting sorors will win an exclusive group prize! Whether you were initiated 2 years ago or 20 years ago, this is your chance to show that your line's flame burns the brightest in HMAC.
Let’sSettheStandard
There is no bond quite like that of line sisters. Let’s use that unique connection to reach out to those who have been away Let’s show our visiting sorors that the HMAC sisterhood is not just a chapter, it’s a family.
Which line will reign supreme?
Let the friendly competition begin!
Sisterly,
Benita Russell, Subcommittee Chair
Gayle Pierce, Subcommittee Co-Chair
Andrea Riles, Subcommittee Co-Chair
HMAC Founders Day Celebration
What a fantastic time at HMAC’s “Best of the Best” Founders Day Celebration! On January 10, 2026, Sorors gathered at the Alief Neighborhood Center for an afternoon of fun, fellowship, and friendly competition honoring our 22 Founders and their enduring legacy of sisterhood, scholarship, service, and social action. We danced, laughed, and bonded in true sisterhood.
This was truly a party with a purpose. With an admission of $22, all proceeds proudly supported our charitable partner, Habitat for Humanity, reinforcing our commitment to service and giving back. Thank you to every Soror who came out to celebrate, connect, and make an impact.
AWARDS AND RECOGNITION AWARDS AND RECOGNITION
Sparkling Soror of the Month SparklingSoror oftheMonth
In January, the Awards and Recognition subcommittee honored SororLaDonnaA.Wynn through “Look Who is Sparkling in HMAC: Carrying the Torch”, recognizing her for exemplifying the excellence, service, and sisterhood of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Grounded in legacy, history, and purpose, she upholds the Founders’ vision through enduring leadership in numerous chapter, regional, and national roles.
Soror Wynn lives Delta’s values through advocacy and intentional relationship-building, uplifting others with grace and sincerity. Her unwavering devotion to Delta’s mission, deep commitment to sisterhood, and steadfast service truly reflect what it means to sparkle.
In February, the subcommittee will present “Look Who is Sparkling in HMAC: Champion of Wellness” celebrating a Soror who inspires healthy living and balance; she exemplifies how personal wellness strengthens both service and sisterhood. Through her commitment to physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being, she reminds us that caring for oneself is essential to sustaining meaningful service to others. Her example encourages Sorors to lead with energy, clarity, and purpose, creating a foundation for excellence that uplifts both our chapter and the communities we serve.
Jacqre' Stewart, Chair
Carnetta Griffin-Daniels, Co-Chair
In Houston, where community is strengthened by the hands and hearts of women committed to change, the Houston Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter (HMAC) of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated continues to stand at the forefront of service. This year, HMAC proudly supports the Habitat for Humanity All Women Build an initiative that unites women across the region to construct safe, affordable homes and empower families through stability and opportunity.
For HMAC, this partnership is more than a volunteer effort. It reflects the chapter’s enduring commitment to social action, economic mobility, and the belief that when women lead, communities rise
BuildingwithPurpose
The All Women Build is a signature Habitat for Humanity initiative that brings women together to learn construction skills, raise critical funds, and directly build homes for families in need. HMAC’s participation aligns seamlessly with Delta Sigma Theta’s mission of uplifting communities through hands on service and advocacy Sorors from across the chapter—seasoned volunteers, first‑time builders, and returning supporters are stepping onto the build site with hard hats, red shirts, and a shared determination to make a tangible difference. Their presence is a powerful reminder that service is not only spoken; it is built, brick by brick, with compassion and collective strength.
EmpoweringFamilies,StrengtheningCommunities
Affordable housing is one of the most pressing needs in the Greater Houston area. Through the All Women Build, HMAC helps address this challenge by supporting Habitat for Humanity’s mission to provide families with safe, stable homes and pathways to generational security. Every nail hammered, every wall raised, and every hour volunteered contributes to a future where more families can thrive. HMAC’s involvement ensures that the chapter’s legacy of service continues to uplift those who need it most.
ALegacyofServiceinAction
HMAC’s support of the All Women Build is part of a broader commitment to community partnerships that advance equity, empowerment, and opportunity From health initiatives to educational programming to economic development, the chapter remains deeply invested in creating sustainable impact across Houston. The Habitat partnership is a natural extension of that work one that blends service, advocacy, and hands on engagement in a way that honors the sorority’s founding principles and the chapter’s ongoing mission.
LookingAhead
As the build continues, HMAC sorors will participate in March 2026 and remain active participants, advocates, and champions for the families whose lives will be transformed by this effort. The chapter’s presence on the build site is a testament to what can be achieved when service, sisterhood, and purpose meet action. Through the Habitat for Humanity All Women Build, HMAC is not just constructing homes It is building hope, strengthening communities, and continuing a legacy of service that will echo for generations.
ThroughDelta Academy
For generations, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. has stood as a beacon of strength, scholarship, and service. One of the most powerful ways we honor that legacy is by investing intentionally in our youth through programs like Delta Academy In every session, every conversation, and every mentorship moment, we engage in a sacred act: passing the torch to the next generation of visionary youngwomen.
HonoringtheLight,WeCarryForward
The Founders of our sisterhood understood that leadership is cultivated, not inherited. They worked tirelessly to create opportunities for Black women and girls to thrive in spaces that once shut us out. Today, we carry their flame with pride, and we pass it forward with purpose. Delta Academy allows us to guide young girls in discovering their own brilliance, their own voices, their own capacity for greatness Each interaction becomes a spark, illuminating the path aheadforfutureleaders.
EmbracingChange:ADeltaLegacyofGrowth
The world our Delta Academy participants live in is evolving rapidly. They are navigating new technologies, shifting cultural landscapes, and expectations that are higher than ever. To prepare them for this reality, we must do more than teach skills; we must model adaptability. Being open to change does not mean losing our foundation. Instead, it means recognizing that growth requires movement,flexibility,andawillingnesstostepintotheunknown.
In Delta, we know that transformation often begins with a single moment of courage:embracingwhatwedon’tknowyetandbeingwillingtolearn.Whenour girls witness us leaning into new ideas and fresh approaches, they understand thatchangeisnotsomethingtofear;itissomethingtoexplore.
Oneofthegreatestgiftswecanofferouryouthandourselvesispermission. Permissiontoaskquestions.Permissiontoadmitwhatwedon’tknow.Permissiontoseek deeperunderstandingwithouthesitationorfear.ThisprinciplestandsattheheartofDelta Academy,butitisalsoapowerfulreminderforbothnewandexperiencedleadershipwithin oursisterhood.Asmentors,officers,andguides,weoftenfeelthepressuretohaveevery answerready,toleadwithcertainty,andtomodelperfection.Yettrueleadershipisnotbuilt onflawlessexecution;itisbuiltonthewillingnesstogrow.
InDeltaAcademy,askingquestionsisnotdiscouraged;itiscelebratedasaformofcourage andcuriosity,andasleaders,wemustembracethatsameposture.Weupliftourgirlsby remindingthem:
Youdonothavetoknoweverythingtobegin.
Thisisjustastrueforabrand-newvolunteerasitisforaseasonedchairpersonstepping intoanewinitiative Leadershipisajourney,notadestination andeveryjourneystarts withlearning.
Yourquestionsareyourstrength,notyourweakness. Experiencedleadersmustmodelthisopenly.Whenouryouthseeusseekingclarity, collaborating,oraskingforguidance,theylearnthathumilityandinquiryarenotgaps; theyaretoolsofexcellence
Yourvoicematters,evenwhenyou’reunsure. Newleadersmayhesitate,worriedabout“speakingoutofturn”ornotknowingenough. Veteransmayremainquietbecausethey“shouldalreadyknow.”Weteachourgirlsand ourselvesthatuncertaintydoesnotdisqualifyusfromcontributing;itinvitesusto engage
Clarityisyourright;askforit.
IneveryDeltaspace,fromExecutiveBoardmeetingstoyouthworkshops,clarity strengthensthecollective.Whenleadersatanylevelseekunderstanding,wemakeroom forbetteralignment,smoothercommunication,andstrongeroutcomesforourgirls. Byteachingouryouthtoinquireboldly,wearealsochallengingourselvestoleadboldly Leadersarenotbornfromsilence.Leadersarisefromthosewhowanttounderstandmore, pushfurther,andchallengewhatseemsfixed.Thislearningisnotunidirectional. Ourgirlslearnfromus,butwealsogrowbecauseofthem. Newleadersbringfresh perspectivesandremindustoremainadaptable.Seasonedleadersbringwisdomandremind usthatexcellenceisacontinualpractice
Together,wemodeltheveryculturewewantDeltaAcademyparticipantstoinherit: aculturewherequestionsopendoors,wherecuriosityshapesgrowth,andwhereleadership isstrengthenedthroughsharedlearning.Whenbotholdandnewleadershipembracethe powerofinquiry,wenotonlynurtureouryouthbutalsofortifyoursisterhood Wecreatea communitywheregrowthisencouraged,ideasarevalued,andeverytorchbearer,nomatter theirstage,shinesalittlebrighter.
DID WORKSHOP 2026 DID WORKSHOP 2026
On January 31, 2026, the Delta DEARS Subcommittee hosted the Inaugural HMAC Red Talk, an evening centered on honoring the wisdom, grace, and steadfast service of our Sorors. The gathering created a warm and welcoming space for meaningful reflection, heartfelt conversation, and genuine connection across generations
The discussion focused on aging gracefully, embracing each season of life with confidence, dignity, and gratitude. Our panelists spoke candidly about the beauty of growing older, the lessons learned along the way, and the importance of caring for mind, body, and spirit. At the heart of every reflection was a shared commitment to keeping God at the center of all we do, allowing faith to guide decisions, strengthen perseverance, and anchor purpose through every stage of life.
The conversation also highlighted the profound impact of sisterhood and legacy. Stories of mentorship, service, and lifelong bonds reminded us that our influence extends far beyond ourselves. Through love, leadership, and faithful commitment, our sorors continue to shape families, communities, and the future of our sisterhood.
We celebrate our moderator, Soror Kristie King, and the phenomenal panelists: Soror Linda Lane, Soror Daphne Moss, Soror Cassandra Brooks, and Soror Brenda ChambersGriggs, whose wisdom and transparency made the evening both impactful and deeply personal.
Special thanks and gratitude to the Delta DEARS Subcommittee for an exceptional event: Soror Be’setta Curry, Subcommittee Chair, Soror Santa McKnight and Soror Courtney McVea, Subcommittee Co-Chairs and Soror Monica Hill, Special Projects Chair
In a powerful and necessary conversation, The Quiet Crisis: Uterine Fibroids and Black Women’s Health brought together leaders in government, advocacy, film, and medicine for a virtual panel discussion centered on one of the most pressing, yet often overlooked, health issues affecting Black women.
Uterine fibroids disproportionately impact Black women, who are more likely to experience them at younger ages, endure more severe symptoms, and face higher rates of invasive procedures such as hysterectomy. Despite these alarming disparities, the condition has too often been minimized, misdiagnosed, or endured in silence. This program sought to change that narrative
The distinguished panel featured U.S. Senator Angela D. Alsobrooks (D-MD), U.S. Congresswoman Shontel M. Brown (D-OH-11), Tanika Gray Valbrun, Founder of The White Dress Project, Chiquita Lockley, Filmmaker, and Dr. Kandace Joye. Each speaker brought a unique and vital perspective, from federal policy initiatives and legislative advocacy to grassroots awareness efforts, storytelling through film, and frontline medical expertise
The discussion examined the physical, emotional, and economic toll fibroids take on Black women and their families. Panelists addressed the urgent need for earlier diagnosis, culturally competent care, expanded research funding, and policies that prioritize equitable treatment options. Personal stories and professional insights underscored the reality that fibroids are not simply a “women’s issue,” but a public health and justice issue requiring collective action
Importantly, the conversation did not stop at awareness. Panelists outlined tangible advocacy strategies and actionable steps for wellness and policy change, encouraging attendees to engage lawmakers, support research initiatives, seek informed medical care, and amplify the voices of women whose experiences have long been dismissed.
The Quiet Crisis was more than a virtual event; it was a bold step toward breaking generational silence and centering Black women’s health as a national priority. The dialogue left participants informed, empowered, and reminded that meaningful change begins when we speak openly, advocate intentionally, and refuse to accept inequity as the norm.
Brunch with Heart
Go Red for Women® with HMAC Brunch Heart Go Red for Women® with HMAC
The Houston Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter (HMAC) of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated proudly supports the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women® movement.
DineforaCause
HMAC’s Membership Services and Physical and Mental Health Committees are partnering with select Houston-area restaurants to raise awareness of women’s heart health. A portion of all food and beverage purchases will benefit the Montgomery County / North Harris County American Heart Association, supporting research and education focused on women’s heart health.
ConfirmedEvents
February 22, 2026 | Hibachi King, 5427 Bissonnet, Suite 200 | noon–4:00 PM
HowYouCanHelp
✔ Invite family, friends, and community supporters
✔ Dine during event hours
✔ Tell your server you are supporting HMAC & AHA Go Red for Women®
Together, we will spark change in our community!
Arts and Letters
Membership Services
Delta Dear Subcommittee
Celebrating the 50 Southwest Regional Conference
Call to Conference
Celebrating the 50 Southwest Regional Conference
HMAC Step Team Try-Outs
CRIMSON FINANCIAL CORNER
IGNITE THE SPARK! YOUR 2026 GUIDE TO DUES AND COMMITTEE REIMBURSEMENTS
Sorors, it’s time to ignite the spark and secure your financial membership for the 2026 fiscal year! Please review the following important dates and deadlines to ensure your dues are submitted on time and without additional fees.
Your HMAC Finance Team
HMACNOTES
Be on the lookout for more monthly columns, vital information, and even more S.P.A.R.K.
O R C H
TTFEBRUARY 2026
Houston Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter P O Box 56108 Houston, Texas 77256-6108
ABOUT HMAC
The Houston Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter (HMAC) was chartered by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc , in October of 1974 Since its inception, HMAC has been actively involved in supporting national and local service agencies, all while sponsoring and presenting community workshops, awareness forums and health fairs HMAC members and partners have provided over $750,000 in scholarships, directly benefiting the youth of the greater Houston area
FEBRUARY CONTRIBUTORS
PHOTOGRAPHY: Cassandra Brooks, Canva com, HMAC & Facebook page CONTENT: Percy Ly Kabir, Kristyn Cathey, Monica Hill, Jasmine Price, Matiko Austin, PhD , Santa McKnight, Harlisha Homer,