College & Independent Schools
Black History Month & MLK Commemoration
Black History Month & MLK Commemoration:
New York Times Bestselling Author & James S. McDonnell Distinguished University Professor, Princeton University
One of the nation’s most prominent scholars, Dr. Eddie Glaude, Jr. is an author, political commentator, public intellectual and passionate educator who examines the complex dynamics of the American experience.
Feminist & Writer
Drawing from her experience on the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted List and the ensuing “Free Angela Davis” campaign, Davis delivers riveting messages of tolerance.
Co-Chair, Poor People’s Campaign & NYT Best-Selling Author
The Rev. Dr. William J. Barber II is the President and Senior Lecturer of Repairers of the Breach; Co- Chair of the Poor People’s Campaign; Bishop with The Fellowship of Affirming Ministries; and Visiting Professor at Union Theological Seminary.
Minister, Attorney & Daughter of MLK Jr.
An acclaimed orator, Bernice King is the youngest daughter of Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. and one of Ebony magazine's “Ten of Tomorrow” in Leadership. She fights for a legal system that values rehabilitation.
Daughter of Malcolm X, Professor & Author
Sharing the legacy of her parents, Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz, Ilyasah is an inspirational role model, youth advocate and champion of women and girl empowerment.
Professor & Writer
Melissa Harris-Perry is a college professor and an award winning writer, speaker, and media host.
Co-Founder of Black Voters Matter
LaTosha Brown is an award-winning visionary thought leader, institution builder, Cultural Activist and Artist, and Connector. She is a nationally recognized, “go-to” expert in Black Voting Rights and Voter Suppression.
Daughter of Lead Plaintiff, Brown v Board of Education
Brown v. Board of Education is named for Brown Henderson's father, Oliver L. Brown. She works to affirm the tenets of the landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision; and to promote civic engagement, diversity and equal educational opportunity.
Educator, Author, Intersectionality Expert & Award-Winning Change-Maker
Twice named one of the 100 most influential people in Philadelphia and named one of the top 50 feminists in the world, Dr. Michelle Taylor—the social media icon known as Feminista Jones—is an educator, writer, public speaker and community activist.
Acclaimed Biographer & Pulitzer Finalist
Best-selling author, prize-winning journalist, acclaimed biographer and cultural historian Wil Haygood tells the story of America through the lens of history, politics, sports, race and the lives of change-making African-Americans.
New York Times Best-Selling Author & Award-Winning Historian
Dr. Keisha N. Blain is one of the most innovative and influential young historians of her generation. Her research and writing examine the dynamics of race, gender, and politics in both national and global perspectives.
President of the ACLU
The first person of color to lead America’s premiere civil rights and civil liberties organization in its over 100-year history, Deborah Archer is a leading civil rights and civil liberties advocate, civil rights lawyer, professor and writer.
Mother of Trayvon Martin
After the death of her son made national headlines, Fulton channeled her loss to become a gun control law activist and motivational speaker.
NAACP President & CEO
In 2017, the executive committee of the NAACP National Board of Directors elected Derrick Johnson President and CEO. Derrick Johnson formerly served as vice chairman of the NAACP National Board of Directors.
Co-Founder of Black Lives Matter
Alicia Garza is someone who believes that black communities deserve what all communities deserve — to be powerful in every aspect of their lives. That’s what drives Garza as an innovator, strategist, internationally recognized organizer and writer.
Brother of George Floyd & Activist
On May 26, 2020, Floyd learned that his older brother, George “Perry” Floyd, Jr. had been murdered by four police officers in Minneapolis after a store clerk alleged that he passed a counterfeit $20 bill.
Daughter of Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Educator, Author & Human Rights Activist
The daughter of Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Naomi carries on the family legacy to heal the wounds of racism. After years spent as a development consultant, educator and race and gender activist she accepted her call to ordained ministry.
Member of the Exonerated 5
April 19, 1989 changed 14-year-old Kevin D. Richardson's life and American society forever. After the brutal attack and sexual assault of jogger Trisha Ellen Meili in Central Park, the NY Police Department arrested suspects, including Richardson.
One of Wall Street’s First Black Women Traders
From humble Southern beginnings to breaking barriers on Wall Street, Martina Marshall Edwards is the epitome of not allowing your circumstances to determine your outcome.
NYT Best-Selling Author & Motivational Leader
Moore energizes audiences with his remarkable personal story of overcoming adversity through education, embracing personal responsibility and emerging as an inspirational leader.
Civil & Women's Rights Activist
Known for coining the term “intersectionality,” Crenshaw offers a critical examination of how social structures interact with gender and race on multiple levels, resulting in social inequality.
The 20th Surgeon General of the United States & Executive Director of Health Equity Initiatives at Purdue
After growing up poor and Black in a Southern rural community, Jerome Adams went on to lead the 6,000 person U.S. Public Health Service as “America’s Doctor” during a worldwide pandemic.
Editor-in-Chief, The Cut
One of the nation’s rare Black female editors-in-chief and a 2020 Forbes 30 under 30 honoree, The Cut’s Lindsay Peoples shares an invaluable view of women’s empowerment, marketing to GenZ and elevating your brand in the era of BLM.
First Female U.S. Navy Four-Star Admiral
A ground-breaking leader during her 35-year career in the U.S. Navy, Michelle Howard was the first woman to achieve the rank of four-star admiral and the first woman to be appointed to the position of vice chief of naval operations.
Former Chairman of the RNC & Former Lt. Governor of Maryland
When he was elected Lt. Governor of Maryland in 2003, Michael Steele made history as the first African American elected to statewide office; and again with his subsequent chairmanship of the Republican National Committee in 2009.
Public Intellectual & Best-Selling Author
Featured on NPR and MSNBC, Professor Dyson melds scholarly insight with contemporary culture and examines civil rights and race relations. This thought-provoking talks foster social change.
18th U.S. Surgeon General & Healthcare Disparity Expert
A leader in fighting health disparities and developing innovative community-based health strategies and systems for low-income communities, Regina Benjamin is best known for her service as U.S. Surgeon General from 2009-2013.
Social Justice Leader & Movement Strategist
Tamika D. Mallory is a Harlem born award-winning social justice leader, activist and mother. Quick-witted, strategic, and bold, Tamika speaks truth to power no matter the consequences. She is being hailed as one of the most influential Black voices.
Author, Activist, Educator & Historian
As co-founder of the Free South Africa Movement, Berry helped to end apartheid. Today, she is one of the most respected activists in the cause of civil rights, gender equality and social justice.
Martin Luther King Jr.’s Advisor & Speechwriter
An influential confidant of Dr. King, Jones played a pivotal role in drafting the “I Have a Dream” speech. He delivers passionate presentations on the challenges still facing civil rights.
Actress & Women's Rights Activist
Actress, model, and speaker Gabrielle Union is one of America's top young stars, appearing in Bring It On and Ugly Betty. She also advocates for women's rights.
Co-Authors of We Are Not Like Them & You Were Always Mine
Christine Pride partnered with Jo Piazza to write We Are Not Like Them, a story of an interracial friendship upended by a police shooting that hits close to home for two women.
NBA Legend & NY Times Best Selling Author
A global icon that changed the game of basketball, Kareem is a Presidential Medal of Freedom Winner who now works to bring innovative educational opportunities to underserved communities.
Thought Leader, Social Entrepreneur, & Prison Abolitionist
Imam Taymullah Abdur-Rahman is an educator, social entrepreneur, and prison abolitionist.
Godchild of Martin Luther King , Jr.
Born into the American Civil Rights movement, Abernathy shares personal accounts of Martin Luther King Jr. and her father with powerful insights into today’s discussions on race and equality.
Innovative Educator & Chair of the Acosta Institute for Healing-Centered Education
Dr. Angel Acosta is a transformative leader, educator, and speaker, renowned for his innovative work at the intersection of social justice, mindfulness, and education.
Neuroscientist & Mental Health Advocate
Dr. Addy is a sought-after speaker on college and university campuses, a popular conference keynote speaker, and a frequent guest on podcasts and community panels where he discusses topics of neuroscience, mental health, faith, and diversity.
CNN Political Analyst & Anchor for theGrio
Natasha S. Alford an award-winning journalist, host and media executive driven by the
power of storytelling to inspire and change people’s lives.
Boxing Champion & International Boxing Hall of Famer
The daughter of boxing icon Muhammad Ali, Laila is a world-class athlete, television host and passionate health advocate who encourages others to live an active lifestyle.
Activist & Author
The eldest child of boxing legend Muhammad Ali, Maryum is a social worker dedicated to delinquency and gang prevention. She is also a spokesperson for The Parkinson’s Unity Walk.
Actress, Singer & Activist
Tatyana Ali is a Broadway-trained actress, singer, producer, activist & Harvard grad, well known for her role as "Ashley Banks" on the iconic television series The Fresh Prince of Bel Air.
Emmy & Golden Globe Nominated Actor
Emmy and Golden Globe nominated actor, Anthony Anderson starred in and executive produced ABC’s multi-award nominated sitcom black-ish where he portrayed Andre “Dre” Johnson.
Poet, Author & Millennial Advocate
Azure Antoinette uses performance poetry to explore some of life's most significant topics, including gender, ambition, aging, beauty, alienation, relationships, the effects of technology on culture and more.
Grammy Award-Winning Singer
Born in Denver and later relocating to Atlanta as a teen, India.Arie went from “singing under a tree in the park” to the Grammy Awards stage in five years. She invites audiences to join her in a Songversation.
Former Editor in Chief of Ebony, Teen People and Honey Magazines
An award-winning media executive and brand architect, speaker Amy DuBois Barnett is of one of our nation's premier curators of American popular culture.
Award-Winning Multidisciplinary Artist, Writer & Cultural Worker
Mary Enoch Elizabeth Baxter is an award-winning multidisciplinary artist, writer, pedagogue, and cultural worker based in Philadelphia PA.
Theologian, Essayist & Social Media Influencer
Candice Marie Benbow is a theologian and essayist whose work lies at the intersections of beauty, faith, feminism and culture. As a public educator, Candice cares about bridging the gap between the academy and community through digital projects.
Hip-Hop Artist & Actor
Dante Smith, the talented urban artistic visionary who goes by the pseudonym Yasiin Bey (formerly Mos Def), is regarded as one of the world's most renowned and prolific lyricists.
Mother of Olympic Gold Medalist Noah Lyles & Certified Life Coach
30.6 million! That is the amount of people who watched the Paris 2024 Olympics on television. Keisha Caine Bishop was arguably the “Mom of the Olympic Games.”
Television Producer & Writer
A trailblazer for women in TV, Brock-Akil is the creator of Girlfriends, The Game, Being Mary Jane and her latest show, Love Is on OWN. She inspires audiences to find—and use—their voice.
Former President & CEO, NAACP & Professor, Harvard Kennedy School
As an activist and former leader of the nation’s oldest and largest grassroots-based civil rights organization, Brooks works to secure political, educational, social, and economic equality for all.
Dean of Harvard’s Renowned Radcliffe Institute
Tomiko Brown Nagin is a prize-winning author, eminent legal scholar and historian, dean of Harvard’s renowned Radcliffe Institute, and pathbreaking leader in higher education.
Senior ESPN Writer
The author of eight books on sports and legendary black athletes, Bryant’s latest work examines the intersection of race, sports, politics and patriotism in a divided America.
Counseling Psychologist, Former Chief DEI Officer & Former President of the American Counseling Association (ACA)”
Dr. S. Kent Butler is a dedicated advocate for social justice and a passionate supporter of family, firmly believing in the power of community to uplift and inspire.
Google’s Head of Black Engagement
Valeisha Butterfield-Jones is an award-winning political strategist, youth and women’s activist and lifestyle expert. Butterfield-Jones is currently Head of Black Engagement at Google as well as the author of the highly acclaimed book The Girlprint.
Actress on Hit TV Show Empire
As a bi-racial, multicultural daughter of deaf parents raised in the Cayman Islands, Byers lends insights into challenging social, racial and cultural experiences, reminding us to have compassion and show grace for each other because we are enough.
Inner-City Youth & Education Advocate
Founder of the Harlem Children’s Zone, Canada addresses inner city poverty and violence. His model was featured in Waiting for Superman and has been replicated across the U.S.
New York Times Bestselling Author & Political Analyst
Clay Cane is an award-winning journalist, radio host, political analyst and a New York Times bestselling author. The Grift, an instant New York Times bestseller, was released in January 2024.
Mother of Eric Garner
The matriarch of one of Staten Island's largest African-American families, Gwendolyn Garner earned national recognition as the mother of Eric Garner, a man murdered by the New York Police Department in July 2014.
Urban Revitalization Strategist
Named among the 100 Most Creative People in Business by Fast Company, speaker Majora Carter hosts the Peabody Award-winning public radio series "The Promised Land."
Hall of Fame WNBA Player & Motivational/Inspirational Speaker
Indiana’s “do-everything” forward completed 16 seasons in the WNBA, stepping away from her future-hall-of-fame-career in 2016. Her 14-year run of community service by her Catch The Stars Foundation is testament to her work off the court.
Civil Rights Leader
Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., entrepreneur, global business leader, educator, chemist, civil rights leader, NAACP Life Member, syndicated columnist, theologian, and author is currently the President and CEO of the NNPA.
2008 United States Vice-Presidential Candidate
Rosa Alicia Clemente is an award-winning organizer, speaker, political commentator, producer, independent journalist, scholar-activist and former vice presidential candidate.
Biden-Harris Presidential Appointee leading the Office of Women’s Business Ownership at the U.S. Small Business Administration
Natalie has provided some of the nation's most prominent CEOs of billion-dollar organizations, executives of global brands, senior advisors to the White House, and more with inspiration, insight and advice.
College President & Diversity Consultant
Speaker Johnnetta B. Cole is President Emerita of both Bennett College and Spelman College. She fights for diversity, justice, health, and safety.
Best-Selling Author, The Campus Color Line & Higher Education Thought Leader
Dr. Eddie R. Cole is Associate Professor of Higher Education and Organizational Change at UCLA. His research focuses on college presidents’ historic role in shaping racial policies and practices both inside and outside of the educational sphere.
Award-Winning Actress, “Taylor McKessie” in Disney’s High School Musical
Monique Coleman is an award-winning actress, producer, host, and humanitarian whose career has spanned over three decades. She’s most recognized for her role in Disney's High School Musical Franchise, but Monique's impact goes far beyond the screen.
Award-Winning Actress, Producer & Equal Rights Advocate
With various ‘firsts’ in her already impressive career, Laverne Cox is a four-time Emmy- nominated actress, Emmy-winning producer, and a prominent equal rights advocate and public speaker.
American Actor & Comedian
Tommy Davidson’s exceptional range – from stand-up comedy and acting to versatile music accomplishments – have earned him a reputation as an extraordinary performer who delivers no matter the arena.
Global Head of Inclusion Strategy at Netflix
A thought leader, advocate and writer on gender, race and orientation equality and intersectionality, Davis is the NFL’s first LGBTQ+ consultant and works with numerous pro teams.
Leading National Voice on Restorative Justice
A long-time social justice activist, civil rights trial attorney, writer, professor and scholar, Davis speaks on the power of restorative justice and search for healing.
TV Critic/Media Analyst/Guest Host
Eric Deggans is NPR’s first full-time TV critic and media analyst, providing reviews, feature stories, commentary and guest hosting for the network’s shows such as Morning Edition and All Things Considered.
National Book Award-Nominated Author & Executive Editor of YES! Media
Evette Dionne, known across the internet as @freeblackgirl, is a journalist, critic, and magazine editor. She’s the National Book Award-nominated and Coretta Scott King honor author of Lifting As We Climb.
Former Social Secretary for the Obama White House
Deesha Dyer is a philanthropist, award-winning strategist, on-the-ground community organizer, and executive operations expert.
NASA Aerospace Engineer, Defense Tech Strategist, Program Manager & STEM Educator
Named one of the top 50 minority women in science and engineering, Ericsson is the first African-American woman to receive a Ph.D. in engineering from NASA’s Goddard Flight Center.
Civil Rights Activist
Myrlie Evers-Williams was the first woman to lead and restore the NAACP’s credibility in a time of controversy. She continues to fight for racial and gender equality and co-authored Medgar Evers’ autobiography.
Award-Winning Educator, Entrepreneur & Author
Over the past decade, Brandon P. Fleming has become one of the most highly awarded and sought-after educators, entrepreneurs, authors, and speakers in the world.
Pulitzer Prize Winning Author
James Forman, Jr. started the Maya Angelou Public Charter School and is a Professor of Law at Yale Law School. He also worked as a law clerk for Justice Sandra Day O’Connor of the U.S. Supreme Court and is a Pulitzer Prize Winning Author.
Educational Leader, Social Justice Advocate, Strategist & Author of Being Black in America’s Schools
Brian Rashad Fuller is educational leader, social justice advocate, strategist and author with a passion for addressing the needs of historically underserved students.
Decorated Army Commander & Star in Battleship
Serving in the US Army for 26 years, Colonel Gregory Gadson’s greatest challenge came when an attack cost him both legs and use of his arm. Yet, he remained on active duty and inspires many with his perseverance.
Board Certified Clinical Psychologist & Professor
Dr. Jeff Gardere is a board certified clinical psychologist. He is an Associate Professor and Course Director of Behavioral Medicine at Touro College.
Environmental Justice Warrior, Rhodes Scholar & Founder of Black Girl Environmentalist
Wanjiku "Wawa" Gatheru is an environmental justice advocate, writer and current graduate student at the University of Oxford.
World Renowned Singer
Gloria Gaynor’s legendary career spans the past 40 years never losing momentum. She has achieved global stardom and musical recognition with hit songs in the charts in all four decades.
Host of NBC’s American Ninja Warrior & CBS’s The Talk
Akbar is the host of NBC’s four time Emmy nominated series American Ninja Warrior, Universal Kid’s spin off show, American Ninja Warrior Jr.
Best-Selling Author & Harvard Professor of Education and African American Studies
Jarvis R. Givens is a professor of education and faculty affiliate in the department of African & African American studies at Harvard University.
Actor & Activist
The recipient of the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Academy Award, actor, producer and humanitarian Danny Glover has been a commanding presence on screen, stage and television for more than 30 years.
Acclaimed Director of Straight Outta Compton
F Gary Gray is one of the industry’s most prolific directors as the mind behind Straight Outta Compton and The Italian Job. He is known for consistently pushing the envelope and spotting new trends and talent.
Member of the "Little Rock Nine" / Consultant
One of the nine students that integrated Central High School in 1957, Green speaks out on the vestiges of past injustices, connecting them to present-day issues of race and education.
Activist, Pastor & Thought Leader
The Rev. Stephen A. Green is a global thought leader at the intersection of faith and social justice. He leads with radical love in action through his ministry at St. Luke African Methodist Episcopal Church in NYC.
Senior Fellow M-RCBG at the Harvard Kennedy School & Former College President
Gregory Haile has exceptional leadership experience in both the public and private sectors. By the time he was 40 years old, he had become the president of Broward College, one of the largest colleges in the United States.
Bravo’s Top Chef & Top Chef: All Stars
Carla Hall first won over audiences when she competed on Bravo’s Top Chef and Top Chef: All Stars and shared her philosophy to always cook with love.
Actor & Youth Advocate
Known for his roles on CSI: NY and Covert Affairs, Harper wrote four best-sellers and founded the Manifest Your Destiny Foundation to empower underserved youth through mentorship.
Jazz Vibraphonist
Stefon Harris' passionate artistry has propelled him to the forefront of the jazz scene. Harris is a thought leader whose presentations offer leadership development and team empowerment using jazz as a metaphor.
Distinguished Health Leader, Author & Passionate Advocate for Population Health
Dr. LaMar Hasbrouck is a distinguished health leader, author, and passionate advocate for population health, dedicated to inspiring the next generation of health professionals and STEM enthusiasts.
Robyn Hatcher, is a dynamic keynote speaker, communication expert, author, thought leader and an award-winning actor. Robyn transforms the careers of business leaders and the culture of organizations in the financial services industry and beyond.
CEO of Pharrell William’s Black Ambition Opportunity Fund
Felecia is the CEO of Pharrell William’s Black Ambition Opportunity Fund. Felecia is an innovative powerhouse, personal transformation speaker, entrepreneur and author.
Transformational Speaker, Educational Leader & National Trainer
Brian Heat is a dynamic Educator, Trainer and Amazon Best Selling Author with his latest book release Get Ignited, who transforms audiences by infusing high-octane motivational and cinematic themes.
Former President of the American Civil Liberties Union
Former President of the ACLU, Susan Herman helps audiences understand today’s social issues in national security, marriage equality, women’s and voting rights, the criminal justice system and civil liberties.
New York Times Politics Reporter & Podcast Host
Astead W. Herndon is a national politics reporter for the New York Times and a political analyst for CNN. He reports and hosts "The Run Up," a political podcast from The New York Times that debuted ahead of the 2022 midterm elections.
Writer & Social Justice Educator Focused on Gender, Race & Media
Dr. Higgins is a speaker, writer, and social justice educator who focuses on issues related to gender, race, and media. Named Business Equality Magazine’s “Top 40 LGBTQ Under 40” for 2020, they have written for numerous media outlets.
Powerful Mental Health Advocate, Olympic Gold Medalist & WNBA Hall of Famer
Chamique Holdsclaw was the #1 Pick in the 1999 WNBA Draft by the Washington Mystics. Aside from her outstanding athletic career, Chamique has dedicated her life’s work to mental health and wellness activism.
Journalist & Co-Anchor of America This Morning
An award-winning journalist and international TV personality, T.J. Holmes was named to The Grio's "100 List of History Makers." He covered everything from the first papal visit to the US to the Hudson River crash.
Actor & Activist
Appearing in Ghostbusters and The Crow, Ernie Hudson’s journey to Hollywood success was not without difficulties. He shares how he overcame seemingly insurmountable problems and inspires others to persevere.
Award-Winning Journalist
Civil Rights trailblazer Hunter-Gault discusses her historic entry into the University of Georgia as its first black female student and the road she took through the Jim Crow South to get there.
Civil Rights Activist & Politician
Presidential candidate and civil rights activist Reverend Jesse Jackson is the voice of American activism. Called “the great unifier,” he has played a pivotal role for civil rights and economic and social justice.
Political and Social Activist
An award-winning journalist, communications specialist, and former NAACP National Youth Director, Jeff is as comfortable in front of the camera as he is behind the scenes as an activist and corporate strategist.
Activist & Survivor
Alice is an icon for the prison reform movement and a humble servant who embraces gratitude and God for her freedom. She recalls all of the firsts she has experienced through her activism and provides an authentic portrait of mass incarceration.
Thought Leader & Founding Director, LBJ School of Public Affairs CSRD
In Fall 2015, Dr. Peniel E. Joseph joined the University of Texas at Austin as Founding Director of the Center for the Study of Race and Democracy.
Professor of African American Studies & Author
Author and historian, Robin D.G. Kelley is one of the most distinguished experts on African American studies and a celebrated professor who has lectured at some of America’s highest learning institutions.
Actress, Sports Broadcaster, Television Personality, Writer & Producer
Jayne Kennedy is an actress, sports broadcaster, television personality, writer, and producer. Her accolades for being a trailblazer are numerous, including the National Sports Media Association’s Roone Arledge Award for Innovation.
Miss Liberia USA & Activist/Organizer
Nupol Kiazolu is a powerhouse in the field of activism, from being on the front lines of the Charlottesville protests to taping "Do I look suspicious?" behind her hoodie in the wake of Travyon Martin's death.
CEO & President of The Education Trust
An inspiring educational leader and advocate, King’s own story is proof of the transformative power of education. He shares a passionate message about access to opportunity and America’s future.
Son of Martin Luther King, Jr. & Civil Rights Activist
As the oldest son of the late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Mrs. Coretta Scott King, Martin Luther King III serves as an ambassador of his parent’s legacy of nonviolent social change.
Legendary R&B Vocalist / American Juniors Judge
Gladys Knight & The Pips transcended countless musical fads and made some of the most memorable records of our time. Following her success, Knight has become a fervent advocate for raising diabetes awareness.
Award-Winning Artist & Subject of the Hulu Series, Woke
Keith Knight is one of the funniest and most highly regarded cartoonists in America, and the creator of three popular comic strips. His life and cartoons are the inspiration of the Hulu streaming-series Woke, which he also co-created.
Legendary Music Mogul Behind Destiny's Child, Beyoncé & Solange
Mathew Knowles taps into every area of his expertise to deliver engaging, educational, and motivating keynotes that will leave a lasting impression on your audience.
Civil Rights Activist & Sociologist
Sociologist Joyce Ladner is one of the nation’s pre-eminent thought leaders. Her career was shaped by her involvement with the civil rights movement in Mississippi and as an organizer of the March on Washington.
Director of Racial Diversity Equity & Inclusion for Reconstructing Judaism
Rabbi Sandra Lawson received ordination from the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College in June 2018. She uses her rabbinic training to bring Judaism to where people already are in their lives.
Spoken Word Poet & Winner of Season 15 of America's Got Talent
Let Brandon Leake, the winner of America's Got Talent 2020 and an acclaimed spoken word artist deliver the keynote speech at your upcoming event or meeting.
Grief Advocate, Entrepreneur & Bestselling Author
Marisa Renee Lee is a called upon grief advocate, entrepreneur, and bestselling author of Grief is Love: Living with Loss.
"Dr. Dylan Scott" on NBC's Chicago Med
Before taking on the role of Dr. Dylan Scott on Chicago Med, Guy had recurring roles on NBC’s The Village and The Blacklist. He has also guest starred in Chicago Fire, Bull, FBI, God Friended Me, Gossip Girl and many other TV shows.
Heart Inspired Speaker, Leadership Consultant & Author
Dr. Luff is an overcomer! As the son of a single-parent housekeeper, he was homeless in high school but went on to become a first-generation college graduate three times over despite being told that he was not college material.
Emmy-Nominated Storyteller, Classically-Trained Opera Singer & On Tour with NPR's "The Moth"
Prepare to embark on a powerful and inspiring journey with Deonna Marie as she shares her incredible story of triumph over adversity.
Father of Trayvon Martin & Community Activist
Since the death of his son, Martin has committed his life to transforming tragedy into social change and awakening the nation’s conscience.
New York Times Best-Selling Author & Musician
McBride uses music and writing to share powerful stories such as The Color of Water, The Good Lord Bird and Miracle at St. Anna, which was adapted by Spike Lee.
National Leader on Belonging & New York Times Bestselling Author
Rev. Ben McBride is a native of San Francisco, spiritual leader, and longtime activist for peace and justice in the Bay Area.
Subject of the Disney+ film Safety
The Disney+ film Safety shares Ray Ray’s story as a shining example of perseverance triumphing through repeated adversity and the message of family above everything.
Award-Winning Social Entrepreneur, Cultural Thought Leader, Founder & CEO of NOOR by Grant Blvd
Dr. Kimberly McGlonn is an award-winning social entrepreneur, cultural thought leader, and motivational speaker who inspires bold, intentional living at every level — from how we build businesses to how we design our lives.
Global Head of Social Impact, Google
Reggie McKnight has been a champion for corporate social impact and economic equity throughout his 20-year career as a leader within some of the world’s largest corporations, including Google, Facebook, and BP.
Mother of Michael Brown
McSpadden is the mother of Michael Brown, the slain Missouri teen who was killed by Ferguson police officer Darren Wilson following an altercation at a convenience store in St. Louis city in August 2014.
Executive Director of the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition
Desmond Meade is a formerly homeless returning citizen who overcame many obstacles to eventually become the President of the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition (FRRC).
Author, Literacy Advocate, Former NFL Champion & Inspirational Speaker
When former New England Patriot’s wide receiver Malcolm Mitchell entered the University of Georgia, he could only read at a junior high level—something he realized after attending his first English class and recognizing he wasn’t at the same literacy levels as his peers.
Author, Rhodes Scholar & Aspiring Professor
By all rights, Caylin Louis Moore should be dead, in prison, or a gang member. Instead, he’s a Rhodes Scholar, author, speaker, and role model for every kid deprived of hope in downtrodden communities.
Award Winning Actress, Author & Advocate
Debbi Morgan is known to international audiences for her prolific career most recently starring in TYLER PERRY'S "Divorce In The Black" for Amazon Prime and TYLER PERRY'S "Beauty In Black" for Netflix.
President of National Urban League
In a distinguished professional career that has spanned 25 years, Marc Morial has served as one of the most accomplished servant-leaders in the nation.
Great-Great-Great Grandson of Frederick Douglass
Mr. Morris descends from two of the most influential names in American history: he is the great-great-great grandson of Frederick Douglass and the great-great grandson of Booker T. Washington.
Frederick I. and Grace Stokes Professor of Law at NYU School of Law
Melissa Murray knows the transformational power of women’s rights and gender justice. As a leading scholar of constitutional law and reproductive rights and justice, she researches and writes about the structures, systems, and institutions.
Civil Rights & Peace Activist
A pioneer of the Civil Rights Movement, Nash helped form the Nashville Student Movement and coordinated the Freedom Ride from Birmingham to Mississippi. Her work was featured in the PBS film Freedom Riders.
Award-Winning Diversity Activist, Changemaker & Political Commentator
Subject of the #1 Netflix film WHITE HOT: The Rise and Fall of Abercrombie & Fitch Ben is known for his transformative work in culture, politics, and entertainment.
Musician & Reality TV Star
Born blind in his left eye due to congenital glaucoma, standout musician Blessing Offor of The Voice emigrated to the U.S. from Nigeria. With a love of people and energy, Offor is making his dreams come true.
The Real-Life Spencer From Netflix’s All American
Former NLF player Paysinger is the inspiration behind CW’s hit drama, All American. Passionate about helping underserved communities, he serves on the board of KIPP Public Schools Black and LatinX Leadership committee.
Human-Centered Thought Leader, Bestselling Author & Managing Director at Seramount
Steve Pemberton is a visionary human-centered thought leader and the Founder and CEO of The Lighthouse Academy.
Personal Branding, Global Diversity & Inclusion Thought Leader, Spiritual Teacher & Author
Colette Phillips has captivated many audiences with her amazing speaking skills and her motivational presence.
Emmy Award-Winning Co-Anchor of ABC's Nightline & Best-Selling Author
Byron Pitts is an award-winning journalist who has covered some of the most horrific and dangerous news stories in the world, from Sept. 11 to Hurricane Katrina to the Boston Marathon to wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Entertainer & Mental Health Advocate
Pointer’s voice turned out to be missing when the Pointer Sisters went from a trio to a quartet. Pointer’s memoir, Still So Excited!: My Life as a Pointer Sister is about her rock, recovery, and redemption.
GRAMMY-Nominated Poet; Human & Civil Rights Activist; Filmmaker; Author of 16 Books
Kevin Powell is one of the most celebrated political, cultural, literary, and hip-hop voices in America today. Kevin has gone on to author 14 books, including When We Free The World, his new short essay collection about freedom in America.
Editor, Writer, Co-Author of We Are Not Like Them & You Were Always Mine
Christine Pride is a writer, editor and long time publishing veteran. She’s held editorial posts at many different imprints including Doubleday, Broadway, Crown, Hyperion, and Simon and Schuster.
Actress
From playing Bill Cosby’s daughter “Rudy Huxtable” on the Cosby Show to starring as “Miranda” in Tyler Perry’s House of Payne on TBS, Keshia Knight Pulliam has forged an illustrious acting career in film and TV.
Former Mayor of Cambridge
Ken Reeves is a Cantabridgian who served as a Cambridge City Councilor for 23 years. He served three terms as Mayor of Cambridge.
33-Year Veteran of NASA & TIME Magazine 100 Most Influential People of 2022
A 33-year veteran of NASA, Gregory Robinson is the former director of the $10 billion dollar James Webb Space Telescope (Webb). With 100 times more power than its predecessor, the Hubble Telescope, Webb is considered one of NASA’s greatest achievements of the 21st century.
Award-Winning Scholar & Professor of Political Science at Brown University.
Melvin Rogers is an award-winning scholar and stands as a distinguished academic renowned for his insightful contributions to the discourse on race and democracy within the realms of American culture and politics.
ESPN Analyst & Former NBA Player
Current ESPN/ABC studio analyst and former 13-year NBA veteran Jalen Rose is one of the select professional athletes to maintain a high profile post-retirement as a philanthropist and entertainer.
CEO at REVOLT Media & TV
Detavio Samuels serves as CEO of REVOLT, America’s fastest growing Black-owned media company.
Former Managing Director of Black Lives Matter Global Network
Kailee is a global strategist, champion of social justice, and public speaker. She has served as the former Managing Director of Black Lives Matter Global Network.
Executive Editor/Founder of The Diversity Council at America's Test Kitchen
If you could only use one word to describe Elle Simone Scott, it would be warrior. The Executive Editor and Founder of The Diversity Council at America’s Test Kitchen fought for herself—navigating a career and life full of extreme highs and lows.
Former Senior White House Official, CNN Political Contributor & Co-Host of the Trailblaze Podcast
Jamal Simmons has been at the nexus of politics and media for three decades. He is currently a Political Commentator on CNN and Co-Host of the TralBlaze Podcast on Politicon.
CEO of Lobos 1707, Brand Building & Leadership Expert, Market Disruptor
One of the country’s few female and African American CEOs, Dia Simms is renowned for her expertise in leading brand strategies and launching brands, as well as being a trailblazing leader.
Author & Inspiration for Scandal
The real-life inspiration behind ABC's hit political thriller series Scandal starring Kerry Washington, Judy Smith is the US's premier crisis management expert.
Legendary Lawyer & Noted Mental Health Advocate
Rolling Out magazine calls Corey Minor Smith a “legendary lawyer, renowned attorney, noted mental health advocate, prominent media fixture, and New York Times celebrated author.”
1st African American Female Coach in NFL History
Collette V. Smith is the Founder and President of Believe N You, Inc. and the NFL’s 1st African American Female Coach in the History of the National Football League by way of being the 1st Female Coach in NY Jets Franchise History, Coaching the Defensive Backs in 2017 during Training Camp.
Actress, Model, Disability Advocate & Lifestyle Influencer
At just 14 years old, Lauren “Lolo” Spencer was diagnosed with ALS and given five years to live. The news was devastating. But instead of letting it define her, she made a life-changing decision—she would live fully and fearlessly.
Award-Winning Actor, Activist & Author
A breakout star of FX’s Golden Globe-nominated series, Pose, Ryan Jamaal Swain is a triple-threat actor, dancer, and singer who was named to Forbes’ “30 Under 30” list for his LGBTQIA+ activism.
Speaker, Author & Thought Leader
Dr. Beverly Daniel Tatum, president emerita of Spelman College, is a clinical psychologist widely known for both her expertise on race relations and as a thought leader in higher education.
Founder & CEO, National CARES Mentoring Movement
The visionary that built the Essence brand, Taylor left the magazine to found an organization devoted to breaking the cycle of intergenerational poverty among African-Americans.
Founder of Intersectional Environmentalist & Author of The Intersectional Environmentalist
Coining the term ‘eco-communicator’ to describe her style of environmental activism, Leah uses her passion for writing to explore and advocate for the critical yet often overlooked relationship between social justice and environmentalism.
New York Jets DT, Co-Founder & Board Chair of The Defensive Line Solomon Thomas
Solomon Thomas has played in the NFL for six seasons as a Defensive Lineman and is Co-Founder and Board Chair of The Defensive Line.
Founder of the Theory of Enchantment
Chloé Valdary is a speaker, writer, musician, and founder of the Theory of Enchantment, a New York-based startup that trains and develops inclusion and belonging strategies for businesses.
MVP Wide Receiver & Activist
Perhaps the greatest wide receiver in Steelers' history, speaker Hines Ward promotes social and political reform in South Korea through his Helping Hands Foundation.
Human Rights Activist & Advocacy Educator
Natalie Warne is an activist who at the age of 17 decided to work for the humanitarian aid organization, Invisible Children. What began as a 5 month internship resulted in Natalie producing award-winning international human rights awareness campaigns.
Inaugural Associate Professor of Equity & Inclusion in Education Policy at Vanderbilt University
Dr. Chezare A. Warren is the inaugural Associate Professor of Equity & Inclusion in Education Policy at Vanderbilt University’s Peabody College of Education and Human Development.
Financial Expert & Social Activist
As the founder of YourBlackWorld.com, speaker Boyce Watkins fights for economic and social justice in America. He is the resident financial expert for AOL Black Voices.
Veteran TV Actor & Emmy Award Nominee
Veteran TV actor Dondré Whitfield is a 3 time Emmy and NAACP Image award nominee and best known for his role as Remy Newell, a trusted friend working on the Bordelon land as a water irrigation specialist on the critically acclaimed series Queen Sugar.
NBA Hall of Famer & Businessman
Speaker Dominique Wilkins demonstrates the team-building and leadership skills that helped him on the court, in the community, and in his battle with diabetes.
Columnist & Law Professor
The recipient of the MacArthur Foundation "Genius Award," speaker Patricia J. Williams is the author of Seeing a Color-Blind Future.
Political Analyst, Social Justice Activist & Creator of Sunday Civics Podcast
Recognizing the need for civics education and engagement in an accessible format, L. Joy Williams created the hit show and podcast Sunday Civics to teach civics using the current political landscape.
Cultural Critic, Author & The Atlantic Contributing Writer
A cultural critic for extraordinary times, Thomas Chatterton Williams brings his insightful perspective to subjects of race, Black identity and history, cancel culture, social justice and inequality in America and the world.
Guest Shark on ABC’s Shark Tank, Atlanta Falcons Limited Partner
Rashaun Williams is a trailblazing investor, entrepreneur and financial literacy advocate who has carved out a unique role in the world of venture capital.
Former Host of the Nightly Show
An Emmy Award winner, Wilmore is a comedic force on and off-screen, speaking out on diversity, politics, current events, culture and beyond.
Serial Social Entrepreneur, Storyteller & Author
Growing up in Washington, DC, Chris Wilson was surrounded by violence and despair. At 18, he was sentenced to life in prison, with no hope of parole. While behind bars, Chris embarked on a remarkable journey of self-improvement.
Public Intellectual, Author & CNN Commentator
Theo Wilson is a founding member of the Denver Slam Nuba team, who won the 2011 National Poetry Slam. Wilson is the executive director of Shop Talk Live, Inc. The organization uses the barbershop as a staging ground for community dialogue and healing.
Award-Winning Advocate and Trans Justice Leader & Campaign Manager at the ACLU
LaLa B Zannell is an advocate, organizer, and artist working towards liberation for transgender and nonbinary communities, with a particular focus on trans women of color and trans sex workers.