Standing (L to
Brandon Gleaton, Dr. Lakisha Holifield, MD, Hon. Jeremy Bowie, Atty. Arius Harper, Dasia Gorbea, Khalil Davis, Azia Harris-Martin, and Lanard Ingram. Sitting (L to R) Zaria Phillips, Addofio Addo, Brittany Mobley and Terrence West.
Hiram E. JACKSON
Greetings from the Publisher
Welcome to the inaugural edition of Young, Gifted & Black a powerful tribute to Detroit’s brightest rising stars This commemorative publication honors the dynamic members of the 2025 Michigan Chronicle 40 Under 40 class But it is also so much more than that Young, Gifted & Black is a salute to an entire generation of African American visionaries founders, corporate executives, creatives, policy makers, and nonprofit champions who are achieving extraordinary things before the age of 40
Within these pages, we shine a spotlight on individuals who embody brilliance, excellence, and boldness Their work is transforming industries, challenging the status quo, building institutions, and leading movements They are the new faces of power, purpose, and progress in our region and their stories deserve to be told, uplifted, and remembered
At the Michigan Chronicle and Real Times Media, we are deeply committed to celebrating Black excellence not just in moments of arrival, but throughout the journey That’s why this recognition is not simply about what these honorees have accomplished so far It’s about the fire they’ve ignited, the change they’re driving, and the legacy they’re building for generations to come
To our honorees: You are the blueprint You are the evidence of what’s possible And you are now part of a distinguished circle of leaders who have set the bar for what it means to be young, gifted, and Black in Detroit and beyond
On behalf of the entire Michigan Chronicle family, congratulations on this well-earned honor We celebrate you tonight and we can’t wait to see where your light leads you next
40 Under 40: The New Faces of Power, Progress, and Possibility
By Cathy Nedd
Southeast Michigan has always been fertile ground for Black excellence but today, that excellence is thriving in bold, brilliant, and unapologetically young forms The 2025 class of the Michigan Chronicle 40 Under 40 is a powerful reminder that the next generation of leaders is not just on the rise they are already here, already leading, and already shaping the future of our region.
This year’s honorees span industries from politics to aviation, from public health to art and culture but what unites them is a shared determination to uplift, innovate, and drive meaningful change
Among this year’s class is Mikyah Aaron, a historymaking labor leader who became the first African American woman elected Secretary-Treasurer of LIUNA Local 1191 since 1937 Her rise is emblematic of a new era of political and labor leadership one that prioritizes equity, access, and the empowerment of working families.
In the realm of arts and culture, Addofio Addo is transforming Detroit’s creative landscape As the driving force behind high-profile experiences such as Afro Nation Detroit, Afro Future, Global Citizens NOW: Detroit, and The Black Food & Wine Experience, Addo is curating platforms that not only entertain, but celebrate the global richness of the African diaspora
Corporate excellence is also on full display Marissa Thrower-Fisher, a second-generation McDonald’s franchisee, now manages 19 restaurants across Michigan and Louisiana, carrying forward a family legacy while scaling a thriving enterprise Meanwhile, Dasia Gorbea is soaring literally as a Boeing 747 pilot for a major airline, representing a vanishingly small 1% of
American and Latina pilots nationwide. At just 34, she flies with the weight of responsibility and representation on her wings
Public health innovation is represented in the work of Azia Harris-Martin, a doctoral candidate who manages a $60 million equity-driven health portfolio, tackling disparities and driving systemslevel impact. And in the field of medicine, Dr. Lakisha Holifield, director of Obstetric Anesthesia at the University of Michigan Hospital, stands out not only for her expertise but for her prodigious journey: she graduated from Cass Technical High School at the age of 14.
“These honorees reflect the soul of Detroit’s future,” said Hiram E Jackson, Publisher of the Michigan Chronicle and CEO of Real Times Media “They are not just building careers they are building legacies They are investing in their communities, creating culture, and demonstrating that excellence has no age limit. This is why we created Young, Gifted & Black These are the stories that deserve to be seen, heard, and celebrated ”
The 2025 class of 40 Under 40 is a powerful crosssection of what’s next and what’s now. They are CEOs, artists, engineers, physicians, entrepreneurs, organizers, and dreamers They are young, gifted, and Black and they are transforming the narrative of leadership in Southeast Michigan
As they gather to be formally inducted at the Michigan Chronicle 40 Under 40 Awards and Induction Ceremony, one thing is certain: the future is not coming It’s already here and it’s brilliant
Michigan Chronicle
Michigan Chronicle 40 Under 40
Trailblazer Alumni Award
Johnnie & Alexa Turnage
Co-Founders | Black Tech Saturdays
By Cathy Nedd
This year’s Michigan Chronicle 40 Under 40 Outstanding Alumni Award honors a visionary duo whose work is transforming Detroit’s tech landscape: Johnnie and Alexa Turnage, cofounders of Black Tech Saturdays (BTS)
Launched in 2023, Black Tech Saturdays has rapidly become the nation’s fastest-growing network for Black tech entrepreneurs, innovators, and builders. With a bold mission to close the racial wealth gap through tech-based economic empowerment, Johnnie and Alexa have created a vibrant, equity-centered community where opportunity meets impact.
Their work is rooted in a powerful vision: to bridge divides, create access, and equip underrepresented communities with the tools to thrive in tech. Through weekly meetups, trainings, pitch competitions, mentorship programs, and community events, BTS has already reached more than 15,000 people and generated an estimated $30 million in economic impact
Fueled by a $2 million grant from the Knight Foundation and $1 2 million from the Gilbert Family Foundation, BTS is expanding its digital infrastructure and scaling its programming to create deeper pipelines into tech entrepreneurship and careers
Michigan Chronicle 40 Under 40
Corporate Excellence Alumni Award
Portia Powell
CEO | One Detroit Credit Union
By Cathy Nedd
When Portia Powell was named President and CEO of One Detroit Credit Union, she didn’t just step into a leadership role—she made history. As the first African American and first woman to lead the institution in its 90-year history, Powell is redefining what leadership looks like in Detroit’s financial sector.
For her bold vision, proven track record, and unwavering commitment to community-first banking, Powell has been selected to receive the 2025 Michigan Chronicle 40 Under 40 Corporate Excellence Alumni Award.
With over 20 years of experience in banking, Powell has built a career on the front lines of financial empowerment. Her work has consistently focused on expanding access to capital and building economic opportunity for those traditionally excluded from mainstream banking systems.
Now at the helm of One Detroit Credit Union, Powell leads strategy, innovation, retail banking, and marketing—bringing her signature blend of operational excellence and social impact to every decision. She sees her new role not just as a career milestone, but as the fulfillment of a personal mission: to uplift Detroiters through accessible, inclusive, and valuesdriven financial services.
Portia’s leadership comes at a pivotal moment as One Detroit Credit Union enters a new era of growth. Under her guidance, the organization is poised to expand its reach and deepen its impact as a trusted financial partner for Detroit’s working families, entrepreneurs, and underserved communities.
As a proud alumna of the Michigan Chronicle 40 Under 40 program, she now returns to the stage not just as a past honoree, but as a leader who embodies the very best of what it means to be young, gifted, and Black.
MIKYAH S. AARON, ESQ.
SECRETARY
TREASURER
LABORERS’ INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA, LOCAL 1191
Mikyia S. Aaron, Esq. is General Counsel, External Business Affairs Director, and Secretary-Treasurer of LIUNA Local 1191—the first African American woman elected to this role in Michigan since 1937. A seasoned labor attorney and former Clark Hill associate, she leads legal, financial, and strategic initiatives. Appointed by Governor Whitmer and Mayor Duggan to key boards, she is a recognized force in labor, law, and leadership—honored by Super Lawyers and Detroit Mercy Law’s Rising Star Award.
DEZ’ARAE ADAMS
DIRECTOR OF EARLY CHILDHOOD
WAYNE RESA
Dez’arae Adams is a visionary early childhood leader, devoted mother, and relentless advocate for equity in education. With nearly 20 years of experience, she serves as Director of Early Childhood at Wayne County RESA, shaping inclusive policies and partnerships that uplift children and families. A doctoral candidate and lifelong learner, Dez’arae has led transformative initiatives across Michigan. Her mission: to empower educators, strengthen communities, and ensure every child has access to high-quality, culturally responsive early learning.
ADDOFIO ADDO
DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
BEDROCK DETROIT
ALPHONSO AMOS
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
URBAN ALLIANCE DETROIT
Addofio Addo is a visionary business development leader driving Detroit’s cultural and economic resurgence. As Director of Business Development at Bedrock, he has spearheaded the arrival of globally acclaimed events such as Afro Nation Detroit, AfroFuture, Global Citizen NOW: Detroit, and The Black Food & Wine Experience. Fusing business acumen with cultural insight, Addofio connects innovators through curated gatherings that amplify creativity, collaboration, and Detroit’s rising status as a global hub for culture and opportunity.
Alphonso Amos is a dynamic leader and equity advocate with over 17 years of crosssector experience. As Executive Director of Urban Alliance Detroit, he empowers over 750 youth annually through job skills, mentorship, and paid internships. Formerly with HBCUvc and StreetWise Partners, Amos has advanced inclusive pathways in entrepreneurship and workforce development. A past Port Huron City Council member and NAACP NextGen Fellow, he continues to champion opportunity, justice, and leadership for underserved communities across Michigan.
OLABOLA AWOSIKA, MD, MS, FAAD
DERMATOLOGIST AND CLINICAL INVESTIGATOR
HAMZAVI DERMATOLOGY CLINIC
Dr. Olabola Awosika is a board-certified dermatologist at Hamzavi Dermatology, specializing in pigmentary and inflammatory disorders, alopecia, and cosmetic surgery. A Howard University College of Medicine alum, she has authored over 30 scientific publications and champions skin tone diversity through national leadership roles. With advanced training from Henry Ford and research from George Washington University, Dr. Awosika is a nationally recognized voice advancing equity, education, and excellence across the dermatologic spectrum.
BRITTANI N. BLACKWELL, MBA
DIRECTOR, TALENT ACQUISITION AND PEOPLE TRANSFORMATION
AAA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
Brittani N. Blackwell is Director of Talent Acquisition and People Transformation at AAA Life Insurance. A proud Detroiter and Cass Tech alum, she holds degrees from Michigan State and LSU. Her career spans politics, automotive, aerospace, and insurance—driven by purpose, equity, and innovation. Passionate about creating inclusive spaces, Brittani transforms cultures and champions the unheard. A dedicated “boy mom” and community advocate, she seamlessly blends strategy with heart to elevate people and systems alike.
HON. JEREMY BOWIE
JUDGE
50TH DISTRICT COURT
PATRINA CALDWELL
ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL
THE SCHOOL @ MARYGROVE, DPSCD
Honorable Jeremy Darnell Bowie, appointed to Michigan’s 50th District Court by Governor Gretchen Whitmer, is a distinguished legal mind and public servant. A graduate of Michigan State University and Cooley Law School, Judge Bowie has served in the U.S. Senate, The White House, and as both a prosecutor and defense attorney. A three-time National Black Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 honoree, he is also a mentor, nonprofit board member, and proud brother of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Patrina Caldwell is a dynamic educational leader and Detroit native dedicated to equity, student success, and transformative school culture. As Founding Assistant Principal at The School at Marygrove Elementary (DPSCD), she leads with vision, compassion, and a deep commitment to social-emotional learning. A University of Michigan and Grand Valley State University graduate, Patrina is also the founder of Rising Star Tutoring Services LLC, empowering K–8 learners in literacy and math. Her work champions culturally responsive teaching and restorative practices.
VANESSA M. COHEN
ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT/PROJECT MANAGER
HUNTINGTON BANK
Vanessa M. Cohen is Assistant Vice President and Project Manager at Huntington Bank, where she drives transformative commercial banking initiatives. With nearly 15 years in finance, she rose from personal banker to strategic leader. A former teen mother, Vanessa champions mentorship, workplace equity, and access through programs she leads. Her story is one of purpose and perseverance—grounded in family, fueled by service, and defined by her commitment to opening doors for others.
KHALIL DAVIS
LEAD TRANSPORTATION PLANNER AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
STRATEGIST | WSP
Khalil Davis is a Detroit native, Lead Transportation Planner, and Business Development Strategist committed to advancing equity through people-first infrastructure. With a passion shaped by lived experience, he drives mobility innovation, neighborhood revitalization, and inclusive investment across Southeast Michigan. Khalil has helped secure millions in funding for community-led projects, always centering collaboration, access, and dignity. Named a 2025 Michigan Chronicle “40 Under 40” honoree, he champions planning as a tool for empowerment, connection, and transformation.
JORDAN EASLEY
NATIONAL ORGANIZING DIRECTOR
INTERNATIONAL CHEMICAL WORKERS UNION COUNCIL OF THE UFCW
MARISSA THROWER-FISHER
SECOND GENERATION MCDONALD’S FRANCHISEE
JAMJOMAR XXXV, LLC, DBA MCDONALD‘S
Jordan Easley is a third-generation unionist and National Organizing Director for the International Chemical Workers Union Council (UFCW), where he led a historic 84% union win at Gaylord Chemical in 2025. A Hampton University alum, he champions racial equity, inclusive workplaces, and economic justice. Jordan is active in CBTU, APRI, and the UFCW Minority Coalition. A proud Iota Phi Theta member and labor educator, his most important role is devoted #GirlDad to Skylar Marie Easley.
Marissa G. Fisher is a second-generation McDonald’s Owner/Operator overseeing five Metro Detroit locations and a partner in Jamjomar, Inc., managing 19 restaurants across Michigan and Louisiana. A Marquette University graduate and former collegiate athlete, she rose from crew to executive leadership. A Hamburger University alumna, Fisher champions community impact through McTeacher’s Night, Coffee with a Cop, and RMHC. She serves on the I Can Too Foundation board and is a lifelong NAACP member and award-winning youth basketball coach.
VANCE B. FULTON, CPA, CIA
NORTH AMERICA PURCHASING FINANCE CONTROLLER, E-SYSTEM DIVISION | LEAR
CORPORATION
Vance B. Fulton is a results-driven finance and audit executive with over a decade of global experience enhancing financial integrity and operational performance. As NA Purchasing Finance Controller at Lear Corporation, he delivers strategic insight on cost savings and supplier performance. A licensed CPA and CIA, Vance has led international audits at Lear, Adient, and Plante Moran. He holds a BBA from SVSU and is pursuing an MBA at Wayne State. Most proudly, he is a devoted husband and father of two.
BRANDON GLEATON
SENIOR
PORTFOLIO MANAGER, SOUTHEAST MICHIGAN BALLMER
Brandon Gleaton, a Detroit native, is Senior Portfolio Manager for K–12 and postsecondary education at Ballmer Group. With a dynamic career spanning philanthropy, education, and equity, he has led initiatives at Borealis Philanthropy and Hazel Park Promise Zone. A civic changemaker, Brandon serves on Detroit’s Master Plan Advisory Group and co-chairs Affirmations LGBTQ+ Center. He holds degrees from Oakland Community College, Wayne State University, and the University of Michigan–Dearborn in education, policy, and public administration.
RAE GLENN, BHS, CPS-DP
DIRECTOR OF YOUTH PREVENTION ALTERNATIVES FOR GIRLS
Rae Glenn is a dynamic nonprofit leader and advocate for youth empowerment in Detroit. As Director of Youth Prevention at Alternatives For Girls, she leads transformative after-school and college-readiness programs that inspire resilience, confidence, and success. Fueled by personal experience and her grandmother’s legacy, Rae empowers girls to overcome obstacles—just as she has while living with cerebral palsy. With over a decade of leadership, she’s a mentor, motivator, and champion for equity, growth, and generational change.
DASIA M. GORBEA
PILOT, BOEING 737 AMERICAN AIRLINES
Dasia M.Gorbea is a trailblazer in aviation and music, representing less than1% of African American and Latina women pilots nationwide. At34, the Brooklyn born, Detroit based aviator soars as a Boeing737 pilot for a major airline. Grounded in faith and fierce determination, Dasia now channels her sky high ambition into music with her debut single Hindsight and upcoming EP IntendedUseOnly—proving that no dream is beyond reach when courage and purpose take flight.
DORIAN GREY
SENIOR DIRECTOR, LEADERSHIP, ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND INNOVATION DETROIT REGIONAL CHAMBER
Dorian Grey is a transformative leader at the intersection of business, law, and community. Now Senior Director of Leadership, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation at the Detroit Regional Chamber, he champions equity and opportunity across sectors. Formerly with AAA, he led governance and inclusion initiatives, while driving mentorship and workforce development through civic leadership roles. His passion for empowering underrepresented voices continues to shape Southeast Michigan’s economic future through purposeful innovation, cross-sector collaboration, and values-driven leadership.
ARIUS HARPER, ESQ.
ASSISTANT GENERAL COUNSEL ALLY FINANCIAL
Arius Harper is a Detroit native and accomplished attorney with over a decade of experience in automotive and financial services law. A proud graduate of Denby High School and Wayne State University Law School, he serves as Assistant General Counsel at Ally Financial. A passionate advocate for education, Arius co-founded a high school law academy and mentors aspiring attorneys. His unwavering mission: expand access to legal careers and empower the next generation of Black legal leaders.
AZIA HARRIS-MARTIN, MPH
CHIEF PROGRAM OFFICER | DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, HUMAN AND VETERANS SERVICES | WAYNE COUNTY, MICHIGAN
Azia Harris-Martin, MPH, a Detroit native and Chief Program Officer for Wayne County Health, leads a $60M equity-driven public health portfolio, spearheading initiatives like air quality monitoring and medical debt relief. A PhD candidate at the University of Michigan, her research focuses on healthcare system disaster preparedness. With prior roles at Emory, Kaiser, and Optum, Azia blends policy and practice to drive community resilience, expand access, and improve health outcomes for underserved populations.
DR. LAKISHA HOLIFIELD, MD
ANESTHESIOLOGIST, DEPT OF ANESTHESIOLOGY, DMC | MEDICAL DIRECTOR OF OBSTETRICS ANESTHESIA, DMC HUTZEL HOSPITAL
Dr. Holifield is a board-certified anesthesiologist and Director of Obstetric Anesthesia at the University of Michigan Hospital. A Cass Tech graduate at just 14, she earned her M.D. in 2013 and completed residency in 2017. A clinical professor at Wayne State School of Medicine, she is a fierce advocate for health equity, a mentor to aspiring physicians, and a beacon in Detroit’s medical community—proving what’s possible with vision, discipline, and a heart for service.
LANARD INGRAM
SENIOR DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS
DETROIT ECONOMIC GROWTH CORPORATION
Lanard Ingram is helping to redefine Detroit’s narrative. As Senior Director of Marketing and Communications for the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC), he amplifies the city’s economic success—showcasing that Detroit is thriving, not just surviving. From elevating small businesses through Motor City Match and Detroit Startup Fund to securing national attention in The New York Times, his work fuels pride, progress, and purpose. A dedicated mentor, he’s cultivating the next generation of diverse communications leaders.
GWENA JONES
DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF THE OFFICE OF RECIPIENT RIGHTS
DETROIT WAYNE INTEGRATED HEALTH NETWORK (DWIHN)
Gwena Jones is the Deputy Director of the Office of Recipient Rights at Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network. A proud Detroiter and Wayne State University graduate, she is recognized for her transformative leadership, policy development, and operational innovation. Gwena has streamlined investigative operations, improved workflow, and built a culture of collaboration and accountability. With a sharp strategic mind and a passion for excellence, she empowers teams, elevates standards, and drives impactful change across the behavioral health system.
STEPHEN KEMP, II
LICENSED FUNERAL DIRECTOR
KEMP FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES
Stephen is a licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer serving metro Detroit with deep compassion and professionalism. A Wayne State Mortuary Science graduate, he specializes in trauma-informed care, restorative art, and culturally sensitive services. As managing director of Kemp Funeral Home, he’s known for ethical leadership, community outreach, and excellence in grief care. A recognized contributor to Colin Kaepernick’s Know Your Rights Camp Autopsy Initiative, Stephen bridges death care with social justice, dignity, and healing.
DR. VERONICA KISOR, M.ED
K-12 PRINCIPAL
NATIONAL HERITAGE ACADEMIES
Veronica D. Kisor is a visionary K–12 principal in Metro Detroit, known for leading with care, purpose, and excellence. As founding leader of Center Line Preparatory Academy, she has built a joyful, achievement-driven school culture since 2020. With nearly 20 years in education, she has served as a math teacher, coach, and mentor—always centering equity and impact. Veronica is committed to growing future educators and student leaders who will carry forward her legacy of excellence and empowerment.
MONIQUE J. LEAVERSON
SENIOR MANAGING DIRECTOR, EDUCATOR FELLOWSHIPS
TEACH FOR AMERICA DETROIT
Monique J. Leaverson is a Detroit native and transformative education leader with nearly 15 years of experience driving student achievement through equity, strategy, and philanthropy. She spearheads initiatives that cultivate culturally responsive educators and oversees grantmaking that expands summer learning for thousands across Southeast Michigan. A former principal and district leader, Monique champions upward mobility through mentorship, deeply rooted in the belief that representation matters. She is a proud wife, mother, and unwavering advocate for educational excellence and access.
CHRISTIAN LINER
CONTROLLER & DIRECTOR OF FINANCE
JEWISH FAMILY SERVICES
Christian Liner is a Detroit native, finance executive, and fierce advocate for economic equity. As Director of Finance at Jewish Family Services and an adjunct professor at Baker College, he combines professional expertise with purpose. With 16+ years spanning Big 4, nonprofit, and corporate sectors, he champions financial literacy for underserved communities. Through board service and grassroots initiatives, Christian empowers families to build generational wealth—proving that accounting isn’t just numbers, it’s a catalyst for transformation.
MARIAH MANUEL-BERRY
SENIOR LEARNING EXPERIENCE DESIGN CONSULTANT, TRINITY HEALTH
CEO & FOUNDER, KNOWLEDGE CAREER EXPERTS
Mariah Manuel-Berry is a visionary Senior Learning Experience Design Consultant at Trinity Health, where she drives leadership and engagement strategies for 120,000+ healthcare professionals nationwide. A proud Detroiter and Cass Tech alum, she holds degrees from Eastern Michigan and Oakland University. Passionate about inclusive learning, mentorship, and equity, Mariah serves on the TeamUp Academy board and supports youth through Urban Alliance. Grounded in faith, she views leadership as a calling and service as a path to community transformation.
JERRON MILES
MARKET AREA MANAGER, DETROIT METRO REGION
CREDIT ACCEPTANCE CORPORATION
Jerron is a distinguished business strategist and youth mentor, recognized for driving growth at Credit Acceptance since 2011, rising to Market Area Manager and earning back-to-back Exclusive Club Contract honors (2024, 2025). A proud Spartan and Wayne State MBA, he champions financial empowerment and community leadership. Off the clock, Jerron coaches Detroit youth football, instilling discipline and excellence. As a devoted member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., he is committed to inspiring the next generation of Black male leaders.
BRITTANY MOBLEY
PUBLICIST + BRAND DESIGNER
CULTURIT PUBLIC RELATIONS
Brittany Mobley is a visionary communications strategist, educator, and entrepreneur dedicated to elevating stories that inspire change. As Senior Media Relations Specialist at Eastern Michigan University, she leads strategic storytelling that amplifies innovation and inclusion. Founder and CEO of Culturit Public Relations & Design Co., she empowers Detroit’s businesses and nonprofits through authentic branding and PR. A respected mentor and adjunct instructor, Brittany champions representation, creativity, and community progress across Michigan’s business and media landscape.
SADE MULKEY, DSW, MPH, LMSW
DIRECTOR OF STRATEGIC INITIATIVES
UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Sadé Mulkey, DSW, MPH, MSW, is Director of Strategic Initiatives at the University of Michigan School of Public Health. She leads the Future Public Health Leaders Program and oversees global and community-based experiential learning. A dedicated educator, she teaches in both the School of Public Health and School of Social Work. Sadé serves on the Washtenaw County Board of Health, holds leadership in NASW-Michigan, and is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
NANCY PARKER, ESQ.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
DETROIT JUSTICE CENTER
Nancy A. Parker, Esq. is Executive Director of the Detroit Justice Center, where she leads a visionary abolitionist legal team advancing racial justice, economic equity, and systemic transformation. A civil rights attorney and movement strategist, she has represented returning citizens, supported grassroots organizers, and co-counseled a landmark lawsuit against the City of Detroit. A fierce advocate for Black liberation, Nancy’s work is inspired by her two daughters and her belief that freedom must be real—for everyone.
ZARIA PHILLIPS
NEWS PRODUCER
CBS NEWS DETROIT
Zaria Phillips is a Detroit native and CBS News Detroit producer known for delivering compelling, community-rooted journalism. A Michigan State University journalism graduate, she’s led high-impact coverage of the NFL Draft, Michigan Central’s reopening, and urgent public health specials. With experience in radio, print, and TV, Zaria brings sharp editorial insight and a commitment to truth. Beyond the newsroom, she mentors emerging journalists and leads volunteer efforts that uplift Detroit’s neighborhoods and shape the next generation of storytellers.
CHRISTOPHER RAMBUS
MEMBER
BODMAN PLC
Christopher Rambus is a Detroit-based attorney at Bodman PLC, specializing in business succession, estate planning, and high net worth advisory. He counsels entrepreneurs, executives, and generational families on wealth transfer, tax strategy, and complex trust administration. A trusted legal voice, he’s been recognized by Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch, DBusiness, and Michigan Rising Stars. He also serves on the Board of Directors for the Detroit Institute of Arts’ Founders Junior Council.
DAVID RIDGEWAY
OPERATIONS MANAGER
DETROIT WATER AND SEWERAGE DEPARTMENT
David Ridgeway serves as Operations Manager for the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department, where his award-winning leadership has transformed city operations, slashing a six-year backlog to one. Honored by the American Water Works Association, he mentors aspiring engineers and DWSD interns, and uplifts the community through Meals on Wheels, veterans outreach, and church-led drives. Also an Online Associate Pastor at Second Ebenezer Church, David’s life reflects unwavering dedication to excellence, service, family, and faith.
ROD SANDERS
MANAGING PARTNER
BRIDGEFUND CAPITAL
LESLIE SAVAGE
DIVISIONAL VICE PRESIDENT - CLIENT EXPERIENCE OPERATIONS
ROCKET MORTGAGE
Rod Sanders is a visionary entrepreneur and community leader. As Managing Partner of Bridgefund Capital, he leads a $100M eCommerce roll-up strategy, scaling digital ventures with strategic precision. With roots in cybersecurity and enterprise tech, Rod blends innovation with impact. Beyond business, he champions youth development and mentorship through board service with Friends of Kenyan Orphans, LEAP, and Grosse Pointe Red Barons. His leadership reflects a commitment to building futures—both in business and in community.
Leslie Savage is a dynamic FinTech leader with over 13 years of experience driving innovation and impact. Rooted in Detroit’s west side, he leads with empathy and purpose —championing financial literacy, mentoring youth, and empowering rising professionals. A husband and father of three, Leslie blends industry expertise with community commitment. Whether in the boardroom or on the block, his mission remains clear: uplift, educate, and inspire. He is a catalyst for change—and a leader built for legacy.
QUENDALE G. SIMMONS, ESQ.
SHAREHOLDER BUTZEL
Quendale Simmons is a Shareholder at Butzel and a seasoned business and commercial litigator. A proud University of Michigan and Ohio State law graduate, he has represented clients—from individuals to major corporations—in high-stakes legal disputes since 2013. Quendale began his career as a judicial law clerk before transitioning to private practice, where he thrives as a trusted legal strategist and courtroom advocate. Outside of work, he’s a devoted husband and father who values faith, family, and legacy.
KELLEY STOKES-SAMUEL
SENIOR MAJOR GIFTS OFFICER
DETROIT INSTITUTE OF ARTS (DIA)
Kelley Stokes-Samuel is a dynamic fundraising strategist driving transformational philanthropy in the arts, healthcare, and education. As Senior Major Gifts Officer at the Detroit Institute of Arts, she leads efforts to grow the museum’s endowment and African American art initiatives. A George Washington University alumna, she’s raised millions for Mayo Clinic and held advancement roles at Wayne State and the University of Michigan. Kelley serves on the Black Girl WELLbeing advisory council and is a proud Delta Sigma Theta member.
TERRENCE WEST
MANAGING DIRECTOR, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS
TEACH AMERICA DETROIT
Terrence West serves as the managing director of external affairs for Teach For America Detroit. He also serves on the board of Black Family Development, Inc., a nonprofit organization that strengthens and enhances the lives of children, youth, and families through partnerships that support safe, nurturing, and vibrant homes, schools, and communities. Terrence is a proud emerging art collector who preserves the stories of Black artists from Detroit and the metro area. There’s nothing he enjoys more than spending time with his wife and son.
KORY WOODS
SPORTS REPORTER | DETROIT LIONS
MLIVE MEDIA GROUP
Kory Woods is a Detroit-based journalist, entrepreneur, and advocate amplifying stories on and off the field. As MLive’s Detroit Lions beat reporter, podcast co-host, and contributor to Pistons coverage, he delivers sharp, human-centered sports storytelling. Founder of Evan Jeanes | Media, Woods also leads visual storytelling rooted in community. Armed with degrees in journalism and social work, he champions Black fatherhood and civic engagement—blending culture, purpose, and authenticity into everything he creates.
