Dr. Makola Abdullah
Dr. Makola Abdullah is a distinguished academic administrator and internationally recognized educator committed to excellence in education. With an impressive background in academic leadership and outstanding research, he has significantly contributed to the growth and success of various institutions.
Johnson Akinleye, PhD
Dr. Johnson O. Akinleye, a distinguished academic leader, was appointed as the 12th Chancellor of North Carolina Central University (NCCU) on June 26, 2017. With an impressive career spanning higher education administration, Dr. Akinleye's visionary leadership has propelled NCCU to remarkable achievements and growth. Under his guidance, the university has flourished academically and structurally, solidifying its place as a prominent institution within the academic landscape.
Dr. Brenda A. Allen
Dr. Brenda A. Allen, Lincoln University's 14th President, is a visionary leader committed to enhancing the institution's legacy of producing global leaders committed to social justice through the liberal arts. Her strategic approach to academic quality, operational efficiency, and facility enhancement has propelled the University's growth and prominence.
James Ballentine
James Ballentine is a highly accomplished executive with extensive experience in congressional relations, political affairs, and grassroots initiatives. As the former Executive Vice President of Congressional Relations and Political Affairs for the American Bankers Association (ABA), James played a pivotal role in shaping the association's advocacy efforts and strategic direction. With a distinguished career spanning over 30 years, James is renowned for his expertise in government affairs and policy development.
Leona Barr-Davenport
Leona Barr-Davenport is known as an effective leader by a variety of decision-makers in Atlanta’s civic, political, and corporate communities. She is the President and CEO of the Atlanta Business League, and in that capacity, she is associated as the face of an organization that champions both diversity and excellence in the workforce. The ABL is the last continuously operating chapter of the National Negro Business League founded by Dr. Booker T. Washington in 1900. Ms. Barr-Davenport is committed to helping African American business owners and professionals, and those who support them, to receive the training and accolades they deserve.
Robert Bobb
As a child of the civil rights movement and a career public servant, I find myself drawn to public service, and I have spent 40 years of my life working at the highest level of local government and running cities across the country, such as Kalamazoo, Michigan; Santa Ana, California; Oakland, California; Richmond, Virginia, and here as City Administrator and Homeland Security Advisor. Along with over 10 years of experience in the private world such as working with executives from CSX Transportation and Crestar Bank. Over the past 9 years I have served as the Founder and CEO of my own company The Robert Bobb Group LLC. What I bring to Operation HOPE is the combined knowledge and experience of working for over a combined 50 years in the public and private sector.
Janice Bryant Howroyd
Janice Bryant Howroyd(JBH) is a trailblazing entrepreneur and the founder and CEO of The ActOne Group, the largest privately held, minority-woman-owned workforce management company founded in the United States. As the first African American woman to build and own a multi billion -dollar (USD) company, JBH's journey from her North Carolina hometown with just $1500 to founding a global workforce management company is a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to excellence.
Rodney Bullard
Rodney is the current CEO of the Same House (thesamehouse.org), a public benefit corporation dedicated to addressing the social and economic challenges of our world today. As part of The Same House, Rodney leads the Beloved Benefit (belovedbenefit.org), and programs supporting education, entrepreneurship and employment.
Lalohni Campbell
Lalohni Campbell (LA) is the Founder and President of Per/Se Media Group, an award-winning creative communications firm that builds brand visibility, eats the digital media beast, and uncovers new ways to drive revenue for leading global brands. Client partners range from automotive and consumer goods to nonprofits and technology companies such as Amazon Studios, Apple & Southern Company’s PROPEL Innovation Center, BMW, Colgate, Operation HOPE, The John Lewis Legacy Foundation, and the Atlanta Beltline Partnership, among others. Culled from an Oscar Wilde novel, the name Per/ Se sums up her ethos: “There’s only one thing in the world worse than being talked about, and that is not being talked about.”
Daryl J. Carter
Daryl J. Carter, a 41-year veteran of the commercial real estate industry, is the Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Avanath Capital Management, LLC.
Mr. Carter is a Past Chairman of the National Multifamily Housing Council. Previously, he served as an independent director on the boards of Catellus Development Corporation (CDX), Silver Bay Realty Trust (SBY), and Whitestone REIT (WSR).
He currently serves on the board of Bridge Housing, one of the largest affordable housing non-profit organizations in the U.S. and is a 2022 inductee into the Multifamily Executive Hall of Fame.
Kenneth Charles
Kenneth Charles is a seasoned executive with a remarkable track record in leading diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. His extensive experience in the private sector, coupled with his commitment to fostering intentional diversity and inclusive workplaces, makes him a transformative presence for any board seeking strategic insights into organizational culture and corporate responsibility.
Roslyn Clark-Artis
Roslyn is a nationally recognized higher education executive, with an unparalleled reputation for strategic and transformational leadership. She has led academic, financial and operational turnarounds, and helped to re-imagine innovative, results oriented, high impact educational practices. Her professional expertise includes strategic planning and execution, process optimization, change management, financial planning and revenue analysis, and leading engaged, accountable, diverse teams to produce exceptional outcomes.
Greg Cunningham
An agile C-Suite Executive and recognized thought leader best known for moving ideas through people, organizations, and communities to create and accelerate inclusive growth. A brand builder at heart, connects people to brands through shared values and relatable story telling. Consistently expands markets and increases stakeholder loyalty and satisfaction. Recognized for ability to influence, lead, and motivate employees, customers, and communities. Experienced in leading enterprise impact and cross-functional teams in core business, marketing, and talent management in Fortune 150 retail and financial services companies.
Cynthia Day
Celebrated and respected for her passion, confidence, and ambition amongst the top finance industry leaders by both national and local outlets Cynthia N. Day is a distinguished professional with a wealth of experience and leadership in the banking and financial sector. Her professional journey has exemplified the meaning of unwavering commitment and dedication to getting the job done with excellence. All of which have proven to be the foundation of her purpose-driven success.
As the Chief Executive Officer, Day provides the vision and strategic direction for Citizens Trust Bank. During her tenure, the bank continues to reach record-breaking milestones, including achieving record level earnings and stock performance since the inception of the institution. Navigating unprecedented times, a rapidly changing, and competitive market landscape, through her leadership Citizens Trust Bank remains healthy and financially strong.
Revathi (Reba) Dominski
Revathi (Reba) Nadikerivanda Dominski is a highly accomplished and respected leader known for her exceptional contributions in corporate social responsibility and community impact. As the Senior Executive Vice President, Chief Social Responsibility Officer, and President of U.S. Bank Foundation at U.S. Bancorp, Reba brings a wealth of experience and expertise in ESG, DEI, philanthropy, social impact, and talent management. With a track record of advancing corporate reputation and driving change through collaboration, she has played a pivotal role in positioning U.S. Bank as a leader in social responsibility and sustainability.
Curley Dossman Jr
Curley M. Dossman Jr. is a distinguished professional with a remarkable record of leadership and community engagement. Serving as the President of the Georgia-Pacific Foundation since 1994, Curley has played a pivotal role in shaping the foundation's charitable giving program and overseeing community affairs efforts. His extensive background in government affairs and commitment to various non-profit organizations have made him a respected figure in the corporate and philanthropic sectors.
Albert E. Dotson, Jr.
Albert E. Dotson, Jr. serves as Chief Executive Officer and Managing Partner of Bilzin Sumberg, a preeminent Miami-based commercial law firm with practices including real estate, land use and government relations, global tax and wealth planning, litigation, construction, environmental, corporate and business finance, and public-private partnerships.
Al has an active practice in federal and local government procurement contracts and compliance, in addition to representing real estate developers in securing land use, zoning and other government approvals and permits for large-scale real estate developments that are reshaping Florida's economic landscape - projects that include the Brightline high speed commuter rail line across the state, the $500 million Hard Rock Stadium modernization, and the proposed transit connector between Miami and Miami Beach, among others.
Dr. George T. French Jr.
Dr. George T. French Jr. is an accomplished and visionary leader in the field of higher education. In 2019, he assumed the prestigious role of the fifth president of Clark Atlanta University, the largest United Negro College Fund (UNCF) member institution in the country, and the largest private Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) within the state of Georgia. He is the longest sitting HBCU president in the nation. With a distinguished career spanning several decades, Dr. French's contributions to academia and educational policy have earned him national recognition and numerous accolades.
Ron Gillyard
Ron Gillyard is an attractive board candidate due to his extensive experience in the marketing, media, and entertainment industries, particularly highlighted by his impactful work at his company Quantasy & Associates. With nearly 30 years of experience, Gillyard has a deep understanding of strategic leadership, audience development, and growth strategy. His unique perspective on technological advancements and his proven track record in driving business growth make him an asset for any board seeking to navigate the evolving digital landscape and achieve strategic goals. He’s an often-sought advisor and consultant and currently sits on several not-for-profit boards.
Greg Gunn
With over 25 years in technology and innovation, I am a proven leader, builder, and board member. Since building my own startup (Wireless Generation) and having a very successful exit, I've helped other mission-driven for-profit and non-profit organizations tackle growth challenges from inception to scale as an investor, advisor, and board member. My experience includes introducing new technology, creating and scaling operations, and developing staff. When organizations face tough challenges, I am ready to lean in and help them succeed at whatever level is necessary.
Dr. Logan C. Hampton
Dr. Logan C. Hampton is the 10th President of Lane College, appointed by the Lane College Board of Trustees in 2014. With a distinguished career in higher education administration, Dr. Hampton has been a driving force in student development, diversity initiatives, and strategic leadership.
Johnetta Boseman Hardy
Johnetta is a prominent figure with over 25 years dedicated to championing entrepreneurship as a transformative power for communities. With extensive experience, she has played pivotal roles in leading entrepreneurship centers for over two decades. Presently, she serves as the founding Executive Director of the Entrepreneurship Innovation Center at Bowie State University (BSU), where she injects her relentless energy and passion for fostering an entrepreneurial mindset and culture across the campus. Under her leadership, she empowers the next generation of entrepreneurs, enabling students to bring innovative business ideas to life. She is the visionary founder and chair of BSU’s Annual HBCU+ Entrepreneurship Conference, a platform advocating for entrepreneurial excellence and innovation.
Venessa Harrison
Venessa Harrison is President of the Southeast Coastal States at AT&T (NYSE: T), a Fortune 15 company, where she leads transformational wireless and wireline deployment efforts for AT&T’s critical infrastructure across Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. She brings to board service a strategic perspective along with significant expertise in public policy and regulatory governance that improves bottom-line results and brings diverse partners to the table. She oversees nearly $3 billion in network spend annually that has supported the expansion of AT&T Georgia’s fiber and wireless network. Venessa’s career has reflected a proven track record of leading the strategic direction of AT&T’s network investment, public policy, economic development, and community engagement activities throughout the southeast region.
Dr. Lisa Herring
Dr. Lisa Herring embodies the spirit of ingenuity, paving the way as a national trailblazer in education and innovation.
CEO, President, Urban Superintendent, C-Suite Leader, and Executive Coach/ Advisor, Dr. Lisa Herring has been graced with the gift of leadership in multiple capacities. She currently serves as the President of The Propel Center and Strategic Advisor to the US Secretary of Education, Dr. Miguel Cardona. These two roles, along with the success of her past leadership as a K-12 district leader, have cultivated a professional journey that is deeply invested in reimagining learning, innovative leadership development, and curating extraordinary corporate partnerships with learning institutions. Supported by founding funders Apple and Southern Company, The Propel Center is the country's first HBCU technology/innovation hub designed to work with HBCUs and industry partners across the country to cultivate mutually innovative career opportunities for scholars and industry partners. As Strategic Advisor to the US Secretary of Education, Dr. Herring helps shape the department’s strategy to engage state and local officials to complement the Department's call to action to "Raise the Bar: Lead the World", designed to transform education and unite around what truly works—based on decades of experience and research—to advance educational equity and excellence.
Clyde Higgs
Clyde Higgs is an internationally recognized leader renowned for his expertise in implementing innovation districts and complex placemaking strategies. With over 20 years of experience in the private and public sectors, Clyde has left a profound impact on the economic development landscape. His visionary leadership and dedication to fostering equitable economic growth have earned him numerous accolades and recognition, including being named a "Most Admired CEO" by the Atlanta Business Chronicle.
Rodney Hood
Rodney Hood is an accomplished financial services professional with a distinguished career over three decades spanning various leadership roles at organizations such a JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America and Wells Fargo and as the Former Chairman of the National Credit Union Administration, demonstrating expertise in risk management, cybersecurity, corporate governance, and financial compliance. As the Eleventh Chairman of the Board and Board Member of the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), Rodney played a pivotal role in shaping financial regulatory policies with peer regulators from the FDIC, OCC, CFPB and Federal Reserve during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring stability and oversight amidst economic challenges. With a focus on organizational efficiency, he led initiatives resulting in budget reductions and directed refunds to federal credit unions, showcasing his commitment to fiscal responsibility. Rodney's leadership extended to nurturing a positive organizational culture at NCUA, resulting in recognition as a top workplace within the federal government. His emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion led to increased representation within the agency's workforce and senior staff positions. Additionally, he spearheaded the establishment of the Office of Financial Technology & Access, promoting fintech adoption and financial inclusion among credit unions. Prior to his role at NCUA, Rodney served as Corporate Responsibility Manager at JPMorgan Chase, where he managed strategic partnerships to foster financial inclusion in underserved communities. His adeptness in navigating complex situations was demonstrated by dissuading potentially controversial events and fostering collaborative relationships with influential organizations. With a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration, Political Science, and Speech Communication from the University of North Carolina, Rodney's commitment to excellence has been recognized through numerous honors and awards, including induction into the Hall of Fame by the African American Credit Union Coalition and being named a "Young Global Leader" by the World Economic Forum. Through his extensive media contributions and public remarks, Rodney continues to advocate for financial inclusion and regulatory innovation, exemplifying his dedication to advancing the financial services industry.
Dr. Kevin James
I am an attractive board candidate due to my extensive and diverse professional background in education, business, and leadership, which includes a deep understanding of various industries and their dynamics. My proven track record of strategic leadership, effective decision-making, and adept problem-solving positions me as a valuable asset for guiding the organization towards sustainable growth. With a keen eye for innovation and a commitment to ethical business practices, I bring a forward-thinking perspective to the table. My collaborative approach and excellent communication skills foster positive relationships with stakeholders, facilitating constructive dialogue and consensus-building. Furthermore, my adaptability to evolving market trends and commitment to continuous learning align with the dynamic nature of today's business landscape. Overall, my multifaceted skill set, combined with a passion for fostering organizational success, makes me a compelling candidate for a board position.
Kwame Johnson Sr.
Kwame Johnson Sr. is a visionary leader with a remarkable track record in the youth development nonprofit sector. With over 15 years of experience and a history of fostering growth, impact, and innovation, he currently serves as the President & CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters Metro Atlanta (BBBSMA).
Rashida Jones
Strategic vision, media expertise, and transformative leadership make me an ideal candidate for a board role. As a proven strategist, I am leading and innovating during meaningful change in the media industry. These attributes are invaluable to growth-focused organizations undergoing evolution. As President of MSNBC, I have transformed our brand promise, successfully elevated viewership and market share, efficiently managed the P&L, maintained high margins amid market declines, and transformed the television brand into an omnichannel experience. I am also actively engaged in several organizations focused on strengthening the future of media, including the Carole Kneeland Project for Responsible Journalism and the Paley Center Media Council. I contribute to several organizations targeting mentoring the next generation of leaders. As a board member, I would be an effective leader in shaping policies, ensuring ethical practices, and guiding the organization toward sustainable growth.
Dr. Paul Jones
President Paul A. Jones, Ph.D., is an exceptionally appealing board candidate due to his distinguished track record as a visionary leader in higher education. With nearly four decades of experience and a strategic approach to leadership, President Jones has demonstrated a deep commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout his career. His successful eight-year tenure at Fort Valley State University, where he enhanced the institution's reputation as the top public HBCU in Georgia for six consecutive years, speaks volumes about his ability to create inclusive environments that promote excellence and opportunity for all. President Jones's extensive board experience coupled with recognitions like the 2024 Diamond Award for Excellence in Higher Education Leadership, further attest to his expertise, influence and ability to bring invaluable insights and expertise to any organization.
Dr. Bernice King
Dr. Bernice A. King is a globally renowned thought leader, strategist, and peace advocate, known for her transformative work in nonviolent social change. As the CEO of The Martin Luther King, Jr. Center For Nonviolent Social Change (The King Center), she carries forward the legacy of her parents, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Coretta Scott King. Under her visionary leadership, The King Center continues to champion nonviolent social change through policy, advocacy, education, and training using the Kingian philosophy and methodology of nonviolence which she rebranded Nonviolence365® (NV365®) philosophy.
Bobbie Knight
I have served on and chaired philanthropic, corporate and quasi-public boards throughout my career. I currently serve on the Birmingham Airport Authority Board (2 years as chair), the Alabama Power Company Board (1st retiree to be asked to serve on this board), and the Birmingham Times (serve as chair) among others. I bring a unique set of skills gained through almost 38 years in corporate America. I currently serve as president of Miles College.
Milton Little, Jr.
Milton J. Little, Jr. is a trailblazing leader with a remarkable track record in community advocacy and philanthropy across nonprofit, for profit, and government. As the first African-American president of United Way of Greater Atlanta, one of the largest in the national system, he assumed this role in July 2007 and has since played a pivotal role in raising over half a billion dollars for local community needs and priorities. With a wealth of experience and expertise in nonprofit management, Little has made significant contributions to various organizations, including the National Urban League, where he served as the chief operating officer and interim president and CEO.
B. Doyle Mitchell, Jr
It is with great honor and gratitude that the Office of the Chairman has considered me to become a part of Operation HOPE's Corporate Inclusion Program. With over three decades of unwavering dedication as a top-level executive in the financial sector, I have had the privilege of leading Industrial Bank, a historic black-owned bank, to unprecedented heights of success. My track record speaks volumes, having received The Joseph R. Biden’s Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award in 2023 for significant contributions to sustaining and growing the economy.
Through my leadership, Industrial Bank has experienced remarkable growth, expanding its operations across three states and the District of Columbia, and doubling its branch footprint. As a third-generation CEO, I have cultivated a deep understanding of addressing the financial needs of underrepresented communities and amplifying the Bank's impact as one of only 22 black-owned banks in the country.
Beyond my executive role, I have proudly served on various boards, including Urban One, the National Bankers Association (NBA) and the District of Columbia Chamber of Commerce, where I chaired through various challenges such as the Great Recession, the tragic events of 9/11 and lastly, the COVID 19 Pandemic. My extensive experience in financial oversight, coupled with my deep-rooted passion for equity and commitment to community service, uniquely positions me as an invaluable asset to a corporate board of directors.
I am deeply humbled by the opportunity to contribute to a corporate board if I am selected to do so.
Ceasar C. Mitchell, Jr.
Ceasar C. Mitchell, Jr. is a partner and distinguished member of his law firm’s Public Policy team, where he leads the interdisciplinary Local Government Solutions practice. With a wealth of experience bridging the public and private sectors, Ceasar is dedicated to addressing the challenges facing local and state governments across the United States.
Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice
I am a physician, infertility specialist, and researcher. I pride myself in bringing a unique set of skills and experiences that make me a strong candidate in sitting on a board. I have a deep understanding of the healthcare industry, coupled with expertise in the field of infertility and extensive management experience as former division head, Associate Professor, Senior VP, Executive VP, Dean and President. As a current CEO and a member of multiple boards, I possess a well-rounded perspective that would enable me to make a significant impact. I blend strategic thinking with transformational leadership to address challenging management issues. I am skilled at motivating and inspiring teams, fostering innovation, and driving positive change within the organization I serve and boards I currently sit on. By harnessing the collective talents of my colleagues, I strive to create a culture that fosters excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement. I am confident in my ability to contribute meaningfully to the success of the organizations I serve.
Ravi Norman
Ravi Norman is a dynamic business leader known for his strategic acumen and innovative approaches. With a diverse background in finance, management, and entrepreneurship, Ravi brings a unique blend of skills to the boardroom. His commitment to community, social impact, and fostering diversity and inclusion underscores his exceptional leadership.
Keith T. Parker
Keith T. Parker is a 5-time, award winning, transformational CEO whose leadership profile spans the country. He has transformed several organizations (one on the path to bankruptcy), to vibrant, profitable, and well-regarded businesses. His leadership has made him one of the most recognizable and sought after leaders for public speaking, corporate advising, and more recently, as a corporate director. Parker is particularly adept at building public and business support for community-wide initiatives and referendums. Due to his financial acumen developed in turning around multiple organizations, Parker has comprehensive expertise at assisting companies in identifying and addressing operational inefficiencies that lead to overall improved P&L performance.
Justin Prettyman
Justin Prettyman is a brand innovator and social impact strategist with extensive experience in revenue growth and budget management in the private and nonprofit sectors. With over 20 years of experience in professional sports and corporate engagement, Justin has lead transformations for iconic brands and developed go-to-market strategies for some of most recognizable athletes in sports. Prettyman is responsible for raising over $200M through corporate partnerships, building and delivering P&L growth, and managing organizational restructuring. He brings considerable Board experience and has served as on executive, investment, development, and adhoc committees.
Julius Robinson
Julius Robinson is a seasoned banking professional with over 39 years of experience in the financial industry. Currently serving as the Managing Director and Head of MUFG Union Bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Group for the Americas, he is known for his dedication to corporate philanthropy, community engagement, and environmental stewardship. In this profile, we will delve into Mr. Robinson's professional background, notable achievements, education, professional affiliations, philosophy, and vision for the future.
Dr. Larry Robinson
Dr. Larry Robinson serves as Florida A&M University’s (FAMU) 12th president and as a distinguished service professor at the University. Most recently he was appointed as a member of the Climate Crossroads Advisory Committee of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) and currently serves on NASEM’s Gulf Research Program’s Division Committee. Robinson also serves on the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) 1890 Task Force. Additionally, he is the Principal Investigator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Center for Coastal and Marine Ecosystems (CCME) II.
Brenda Ross-Dulan
Brenda Ross-Dulan is the Founder and Managing Principal of The Ross-Dulan Group, a boutique, diverse, woman-owned strategy consulting firm designed to transform companies by transforming decision-makers. She leverages more than 25 years of experience in the financial services industry to help CEOs and executives across the US solve their toughest business challenges.
Michael Russell
Michael has been CEO of H.J. Russell & Company for 21 years. Before he was appointed to the helm of the largest African American-owned real estate and construction business in America, Michael learned every facet of the company, particularly the construction and program management divisions. Michael’s civic involvement includes serving on the boards of Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, Georgia Research Alliance and the NACD. He is on the executive committee of the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce, The Atlanta Committee for Progress and is a member of the Atlanta Rotary Club, AEC Unites, and 100 Black Men of Atlanta. In carrying on the family tradition, the Russells are laser-focused on uplifting the Atlanta community through their philanthropic efforts while preparing the next generation, G3, to continue the Russell legacy of building quality structures and communities that stand the test of time.
Dr. Patricia Sims
As President of Drake State Community and Technical College, one of the twelve Historically Black Community Colleges (HBCC) in the nation, I am an attractive candidate because I offer a unique perspective on how corporations can meet the demands for a diverse workforce. Additionally, due to my extensive experience in higher education administration and leadership, I have a proven track record of successfully managing and growing an educational institution, an ability to effectively forge unique and complex partnerships, and to work with diverse groups to build consensus around common goals. My background in strategic planning, and ability to find new and creative ways to address organizational challenges makes me a valuable asset to any corporate board looking to enhance their operations and achieve sustainable growth. I demonstrate my commitment to diversity and inclusion in education, this commitment aligns well with the current corporate governance trends, making me a forward-thinking and progressive choice for a board position.
Stacey Tisdale
Stacey Tisdale, founder and CEO of Mind Money Media Inc., is a more than 20-year veteran TV broadcast financial journalist, and financial behavior expert, is one of the first women, and the first African-American to report from the New York Stock Exchange, in her role as a reporter/anchor for Dow Jones’ Emmy Award winning, Wall Street Journal Television.
Felker W. Ward, III
Felker W. Ward, III, is an accomplished entrepreneur and airport concessions industry expert with over 30 years of experience. As the founder and Managing Member of Trans-Air Concessions, LLC, and as founder and President/ CEO of FWW Management, Inc. he has played a pivotal role in shaping the airport concessions landscape at major airports. His journey began as a cashier in duty-free stores while in college, and he has since risen through the ranks to become a trailblazer in the airport concessions sector.
Matthew Wesley Williams
Matthew Wesley Williams, a visionary leader and trailblazer, most recently held the position of President at the Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC), an esteemed historically Black ecumenical graduate theological school located in Atlanta, GA. With a distinguished background in theological education and strategic leadership, Williams brings a profound commitment to advancing institutional change, diversity, equity, inclusion, and the holistic development of emerging leaders. He has returned to his consulting practice, Liberating Leadership, LLC, which builds the capacity of cause-driven organizations (and their leaders) to enact alternatives to the status quo.
Ryan Wilson
Ryan Wilson stands out as an exemplary board candidate due to his remarkable blend of entrepreneurial success, leadership in community engagement, and strategic vision in business growth and development. As the Co-founder and CEO of The Gathering Spot, he not only spearheaded the company to national acclaim through innovative marketing and branding but also demonstrated exceptional business acumen by achieving an industry-leading membership retention rate and overseeing a significant acquisition, which underscored his ability to generate substantial investor returns. His reacquisition of The Gathering Spot highlights his dedication and belief in the company's mission, further showcasing his commitment to business excellence. Beyond his entrepreneurial endeavors, Ryan's extensive involvement in various prestigious boards and committees, such as the Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta, The Woodruff Arts Center, and Georgetown's Board of Regents, illustrates his deep commitment to community service and economic empowerment. His recognition as a leader by numerous organizations, including being named the Small Business Person of the Year and receiving the Phoenix Award from the Mayor of Atlanta, reflects his significant impact on the business community and beyond. Ryan's multifaceted achievements and leadership roles make him an attractive candidate for any board, offering a unique blend of strategic business insight, community engagement, and a proven track record of success and innovation.