TMCnet News
Congratulations To Our 2012 Honorees [Michigan Chronicle (MI)](Michigan Chronicle (MI) Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) Detroit is home to many powerful African-American role models. We don't hear about their selfless acts every day as they quietly go about the business of leading exceptional companies, supporting strong Black families and contributing to the many activities that make Detroit a great place to come home to. But we should. That is why the Michigan Chronicle launched its Men of Excellence (MOE) campaign more than five years ago, in order to honor and celebrate the many achievements of great men who do good things for Detroit - men who have much to teach all of us about the power of stewardship, wisdom, selfdiscipline, tenaciousness and humility. We hope that the powerful and positive visual of the more than 250 individuals that we have honored to date will leave a lasting impact on our readers' psyches, reminding them that many, many strong Black men still serve as mentors, stewards and statesmen in Detroit today. We invite you to join as we take a moment to lift up and celebrate their good work at our 5th annual Men of Excellence celebration on Thursday, June 28, 6 p.m. at Detroit's Westin Book Cadillac Hotel. Bravo, my brothers! Bravo! Kenny Akinwale CEO/Owner The Q Group, LLC Kenny Akinwale is the CEO/owner of the Q Group LLC, a management consulting company, as well as the CEO/owner of the Detroit Seafood Market, LLC, located in downtown Detroit. Prior to his latest venture, Akinwale was the vice president of Operations for ARAMARK Education in the Great Lakes/West Region. He supports the operations of districts in Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, New York, Colorado, North Carolina and Missouri. He has spent over 25 years in the food service industry and joined ARAMARK in 2001 as regional manager. Akinwale provides overall planning, direction, and oversight to achieve operating and financial goals. He also negotiates contracts with clients, ensures conformance with all applicable regulations and company standards, and builds strong relationships with clients, customers and employees. Prior to joining ARAMARK, Akinwale spent 15 years with Pizza Hut, Inc., starting out as an assistant manager and ultimately taking responsibility for rolling out new products and systems to the chain's more than 1,200 restaurants. He received several awards in his tenure with Pizza Hut, including Business Builder of the year, Manager of the Year and the President's Leadership and Vision Award. Kenny Akinwale received his bachelor's and master's degrees in Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism from Madison University. William E. Aldridge, CPA Chief Financial Officer Detroit Public Schools William E. Aldridge, a certified public accountant (CPA), has undergrad degrees in accounting and advance computer science and a master's degree in Taxation. In addition, he has over 35 years of professional experience in public accounting, consulting and executive management. He began his professional career at the international public accounting firm of Arthur Andersen & Company in 1970. He then went on to be cofounder of Barrow, Aldridge & Co, a CPA firm. He remained there for 13 years before joining the Detroit Public Schools (DPS) as its director of financial planning. He stayed with DPS until 1992 when he was recruited by the Cleveland Public Schools to become its first African-American chief financial officer. In 1996, Aldridge returned to the DPS to serve as chief financial officer and chief operating officer. In early 2000, he joined Pierce, Monroe & Associates, LLC, a local consulting firm, as its principal, then again returned to DPS as CFO. He has been honored with many awards for his service to the community. Joseph B. Anderson, Jr. Chairman/CEO TAG Holdings, LLC Joseph B. Anderson, Jr. is the majority owner, chairman and CEO of TAG Holdings, LLC, which owns several manufacturing, service and technology based entities based in North America. These entities serve a variety of industries, including automotive, heavy equipment, aerospace, defense and recreational vehicles. Anderson graduated from the United States Military Academy with a Bachelor of Science degree in Math and Engineering. He received two master's degrees from the University of California and is a graduate of the Harvard Advanced Management Program. He is the recipient of an honorary doctorate from Kettering University. He and the infantry platoon he commanded in Vietnam were subjects of the highly acclaimed documentary film "The Anderson Platoon." The documentary has been shown in more than 20 countries and has won several prizes, including the Oscar and an Emmy for the "Best Documentary Film of 1967." Anderson serves on several company boards of directors and is also on the Board of Directors of the Original Equipment Suppliers Association. He serves as chairman of the Manufacturing Council with the U.S. Department of Commerce. Terry Arnold Vice President/General Manager The Impact Television Network Terry Arnold is vice president/general manager of Impact Television Network, the only African-American owned Christian television network. He is responsible for managing and executing the policies and procedures of daily operations for the national television network's service in the United States, Puerto Rico, Alaska and Hawaii. With more than 33 years of broadcast experience spanning from entry to ownership, Arnold has also served as president of Bell Broadcasting, owners of the legendary WJZZ and WCHB radio stations as well as vice president/ general manager of Clear Channel Communications, owners of powerhouse stations WJLB and WMXD. In addition, radio stations WQBH and WGPR, among others, in and outside of the Metro Detroit market have been the beneficiary of his multidimensional programming, sales, marketing and management expertise. Arnold has been recognized by numerous professional and fraternal organizations and associations, including the National Association of Broadcasters. His support has proven effective for initiatives benefiting Wayne County Community College District, the United Negro College Fund and the Maharry Medical College Trustee Fund. In his limited spare time, Arnold enjoys traveling and is an avid golfer. Keith A. Butler Presiding Bishop Word of Faith International Christian Center Bishop Keith A. Butler is the senior pastor of Faith4Life churches in Round Rock and Dallas, Texas. He is also founder and presiding bishop of Word of Faith International Christian Center in Southfield. He spends a lot of time as a "pastor" to over 500 pastors and ministers through the Word of Faith Ministerial Alliance. With a concern for the well-being of others, Bishop Butler, through his ministries across the nation and worldwide, has helped thousands through the Operation Blessing programs, Bible Training Centers, and family-oriented ministry programs. He also served as a member of the Detroit City Council (1990-1994). With the support of his wife, Pastor Deborah L. Butler, and their Children, Pastor André Butler and his wife, Minister Tiffany Butler, Pastor Michelle Butler and Minister Kristina Butler, he continues to plant churches worldwide. Keith A. Butler ministers extensively in churches, conferences and seminars throughout the United States and abroad with an emphasis on instruction, line-upon-line teaching and no-non-sense, practical application of God's Word. Justin S. Byrd Head of Multicultural Marketing & Advertising Chrysler Group LLC Justin S. Byrd's career started at Chrysler Group LLC in January 2000 in their Northeast Business Center. While there, he gained invaluable experience and rose through the ranks quickly. Byrd was promoted to Chrysler Group LLC's World Headquarters in Auburn Hills, Michigan, in 2004 to manage their Dealership Satisfaction Program - Five Star. He has worked his way from national dealer relations to working in the Office of the Chairman during what will be arguably known as the most historic times in automotive industry. In July 2009, Byrd was promoted to the head of Market Representation. In this role, he became a key stakeholder in establishing the network for FIAT. This experience led him to be tapped in December 2010 to be the head of operations for FIAT in North America. In February of this year Justin S. Byrd was appointed the head of Multicultural Marketing & Advertising for Chrysler Group LLC. Under his leadership, the multicultural marketing and advertising efforts of the company's great brands are being created and implemented. Philip T. Calhoun Plant Manager, Dearborn Engine Plant & Fuel Tank Plant/Woodhaven Forging Ford Motor Company Philip T. Calhoun currently serves as plant manager of Dearborn Engine & Fuel Tank Plant and Woodhaven Forging Plant. In this role he and his team produce engines that supply the global production of the Ford Focus and cranks that supply some of Ford's best-selling vehicles. Calhoun has more than 20 years of manufacturing operations experience and is known as a "lean manufacturing" expert. He was the recipient of the J. D. Power Platinum Award in 2007 for the Best Quality Manufacturing Plant in the World. In his previous role, he served as the director of Manufacturing Quality for the Americas. He is also very involved in the African- American community at Ford. He is a member of the company's African Ancestry Network (FAAN). Currently, he is the vice president of Operations and a sponsor of FAAN's mentoring circle. He is the executive champion of the company's sponsorship of the National Black MBA (NMBA) recruiting conference. He did his undergraduate studies at the University of Michigan and DePaul University. He holds master's degrees from New York University, London School of Economics and the HEC School of Management. Calhoun is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity and coaches basketball for Powerstroke Athletics. Kenneth Coleman, MA, LPC, NCC Director School Based Health Centers St. John Providence Community Health Kenneth Coleman has been advocating for children for 16 years as part of the Community Health division of St. John Providence Health System. Today he is director of school-based initiatives for the health system, overseeing clinics in numerous schools in Detroit and the surrounding area where children and their families receive health care, counseling and wellness services. Coleman has worked with kids one-on-one, but also focuses on improving public policy as it relates to children. He works for policies that are "kidfriendly" in education, in protective services, in health care and any related area. He serves on numerous boards in the community. He is the immediate past president to the School Community Health Alliance of Michigan, a member of the Board of Directors of Communities in Schools of Detroit and Teen HYPE. Kenneth Coleman holds a bachelor's degree in Public Administration from Eastern Michigan University and a master's degree in Guidance and Counseling from Wayne State University. He is a licensed professional counselor and a national certified counselor. Dr. Nathan A. Dixon Pastor First Community AME Church The Rev. Dr. Nathan A. Dixon, who was born and raised on the South Side of Chicago, is a first generation preacher. Despite the many accolades that he has received, he strives to remain humble. Having answered the call to the ministry at the age of 15, Pastor Nathan went on to prepare himself for ministry by graduating from Chicago State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology & Criminal Justice. Upon graduation, he went on to receive his Master of Divinity degree from Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, with a concentration in Homiletics & Preaching and Psychology and Religion. He received his doctor of ministry degree from The Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology at Virginia Union University. His dissertation title was "Hip-Hop and the Black Church: Healing a Generational Divide, Towards a Theological 'Collabo'." Pastor Nathan is married to Lady Rolanda M. Love-Dixon, and they have been blessed with two beautiful children, Makenzie and Josiah. Dr. James Edwards Executive Director, Dorothy A. Johnson Center for Philanthropy Grand Valley State University Dr. James Edwards is the executive director of the Dorothy A. Johnson Center for Philanthropy at Grand Valley State University. Under his leadership, the Johnson Center delivers a grant making curriculum to foundations across the nation, provides research and data to local and regional non-profits, publishes the only peer-reviewed journal for foundations, and delivers technical assistance and training to non-profits. Previously, Edwards served as the director of the Community Research Institute with the Johnson Center and was assistant professor and director of Field Education in the School of Social Work at Grand Valley State University. He has over 13 years of human service and non-profit experience in child welfare, juvenile justice, mental health, and substance use services. He earned his doctorate in social work from Michigan State University. He is a native of Grand Rapids. Edwards lectures and leads numerous training sessions and serves on several boards. He serves as board secretary for the Nonprofit Academic Centers Council. He is writing an article titled "Disruptive Community Data: How Foundations and Nonprofits Receive and Process Increasingly Granular Community Information." Gregory Alan Finley, Sr. Operations Supervisor McDonald's - Jamjomar, Inc. Gregory Alan Finley Sr. oversees daily operations, personnel development, planning and implementation of corporate strategies, and bottomline results for eight Metro Detroit locations. Finley provides strategic business consulting to entrepreneurs and has been instrumental in the success of C & E Real Estate Management, LLC, and LMC Services, LLC. He has been an active member of the Cass Technicians Marching Band Booster Club for several years. Throughout his life, Finley has left his footprint in the community as an activist and mentor. He is a man of strong conviction who keeps God and family first. He is a graduate of River Rouge High School, Central Michigan University and McDonald's Hamburger University. He is an active member of Straight Gate International Church and devotes much of his time and talents to the prison ministry. Active in this ministry for 15 years, he travels to Jackson Prison ministering to inmates and provides after-care support upon reentry into the community. He also served as a counseling group facilitator for the New Creations Community Outreach Program. Gregory A. Finley is married, the father of four, and loves fishing and road trips. Kevin Fite Founder/Coach Detroit City Chess Club Kevin Fite, a graduate of Southern University in Baton Rouge, La., is currently the dean of operations at Washington-Parks Academy. Before entering education, Coach Fite worked as a programmer for Compuware Corporation. He founded Detroit City Chess Club (DCCC) in 2002 to provide an educational and an enjoyable way for youth to use their time. DCCC has had well over 500 kids in its ranks during last 10 years. Coach Fite has coached six National Chess Championship teams and 13 State Chess Championship teams. In just nine years, he has taken well over 300 students all over the United States to play in chess competitions. His students have traveled to cities such as Dallas, Sacramento, Pittsburgh, Atlanta, Minneapolis, Nashville and San Diego, to name a few. Three of his players have earned the title of No. 1 Chess Player in the U.S. Over 50 of his students have earned Top 25 national rankings. Kevin Fite has been honored for his work in the community by the Detroit City Council with a Spirit of Detroit award. Nathan K. Ford Director, Buildings, Safety Engineering & Environmental Department City of Detroit On January 4, 2012, Nathan Ford assumed the position of director of the City of Detroit's Buildings, Safety Engineering and Environmental Department. In his position, Ford oversees a department that ensures the successful execution of everyday business processes across the city, including inspections, permits, licenses, zoning and demolitions. In 2011, Ford served as business advocate for the City of Detroit, a position he was assigned to through the Living Cities Fellows program, which placed top-flight talent in positions to help rebuild Detroit. As business advocate, he streamlined processes for local businesses, including permits and licensing. Prior to serving Mayor Dave Bing's administration, Ford held numerous positions where he helped advance city causes, including a 14-year stint on the Wayne County Building Authority Board, where he ultimately became board chairman. In 2009, Ford, along with Chris Jackson, formed Paradise Valley Partners, which provided land use consultation to Detroit developers with a particular focus on permitting, licensing, zoning and community relations. He also is the former vice president of the Fodale Group in Detroit and Pompano Beach, Florida, where he managed marketing and public relations activities and was instrumental in securing $12.5 million in new contracts. Rory L. Gamble Director UAW Region 1A Rory L. Gamble was elected to a second term as director of UAW Region 1A in June 2010, his first being in June 2006. Region 1A covers most of Wayne County, Monroe and Washtenaw counties and extends to the Ohio border. From 1993 to 2002, Gamble was elected to three terms as the Local 600's recording secretary. He was elected first vice president of Local 600 in 2002 and reelected in 2005. He received the 1999 Spirit of Detroit Award, the 2006 Horace L. Sheffield Jr. Humanitarian Award and the 2008 the Minority Women's Network (Detroit Chapter) Man of the Year Award. He is a member of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists and a life member of the NAACP. Gamble is co-chair of the Michigan Labor History Society. He was one of the first major sponsors of Martin Luther King Jr. High School's marching band's trip to China. He worked with the NAACP and Detroit media on a Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History fundraiser for Haitian earthquake victims. Rory L. Gamble is a graduate of Wayne State University. He lives in Detroit and is the father of five: Anthony, Rory Jr., Raenard, Rashaun and Rahshidah and the grandfather of 26. Ken L. Harris President/CEO Michigan Black Chamber of Commerce, Inc. Ken L. Harris serves as president/CEO of the Michigan Black Chamber of Commerce with access to more than 79,000 Black-owned businesses in Michigan. Commissioner Harris was elected to the Detroit Charter Commission in 2009. He currently serves on the U.S. Black Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors in Washington, DC, and as Midwest director for the US Black Chamber over 12 states. Harris is an active life member of Omega Psi Phi fraternity and a 33rd Degree United Supreme Council Prince Hall Mason. He received the U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA) 2007 Minority Business Advocate of the Year Award in Michigan and was inducted into Crain's Detroit Business Class of 2007 40 under 40. He was also featured in DBusiness magazine 30 in their 30 Most Influential and Ebony magazine in 2011. He is a former NCAA Basketball Academic All-American point-guard for Clark Atlanta University and graduated with a B.A. in Psychology and M.A. in Counseling Psychology from Clark Atlanta University in Atlanta and an Educational Specialist (EDS) Degree from Wayne State University in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies. He is a PhD candidate at the Michigan State University in African American and African Studies and the Eli Broad School of Business Program. Lee Hawkins Executive Vice President Wayne County Medical Society of Southeast Michigan Lee Hawkins is the first African-American executive vice president of the Wayne County Medical Society of Southeast Michigan (WCMSSM). WCMSSM, located in Detroit, is one of the nation's largest medical societies, representing 5,000 active, retired, life and resident physicians, and medical students. The Society has been a leader of change in Southeast Michigan's medical community through its involvement in public health issues, health Information technology, medical education and health care reform. Before WCMSSM, Hawkins was the director of Special Constituencies and Patient Populations at the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). While there, he developed and implemented programming and marketing initiatives to improve the delivery of health care services to underserved patient populations, and empowered AAFP's special constituency members (i.e. women, minorities, international medical graduates, etc.). From October 1998 to April 1999, Hawkins was a W.K. Kellogg Foundation Health Policy Fellow with the National Health Policy Forum (NHPF) in Washington, D.C. Hawkins, a native Detroiter, graduated from Kettering High School and the University of Kansas. He is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. He and his wife, Patricia, have one adult son, Jarreau, and one grand-daughter, Emery. Gregory Hill Vice President of Investments Wells Fargo Advisors Gregory Hill started his career in the financial services industry over 30 years ago. He worked for Merrill Lynch and Co. for over 24 years before coming to Wells Fargo Advisors. Hill and his business partner, David Long, work to bring financial literacy to minority organizations and communities in the area. Hill was chosen as a Five Star Wealth Manager in 2011 and 2012 in an Hour magazine survey. Five star wealth managers are a select group representing less than 7% of wealth managers in the Detroit area. He graduated from the University of Notre Dame with a degree in Business and a major in Finance and Marketing. He currently sits on the Board of Directors of the Notre Dame Alumni Club of Detroit. The club is active in many community service projects, including Gleaners Food Bank, Lighthouse of Oakland County, Infant Mortality Project, Saint Patrick's Senior Center and Parochial School Assistance programs. Originally from North Carolina, Hill and his wife, Janette, have two daughters and five grandchildren. His hobbies include golf, fishing and "spoiling his grandchildren." Anthony D. Holt Chief of Police/ Associate Vice President Wayne State University Anthony D. Holt was promoted to associate vice president and Chief of Police at Wayne State University on August 1, 2008. Since joining the force in 1977, Holt has held multiple positions within. He rose through the ranks to sergeant, lieutenant, captain and now chief during a career spanning more than 30 years. Chief Holt serves as the University's chief law enforcement officer with responsibility to plan, direct and oversee the strategic development and implementation of all aspects of campus and community security. He is a graduate of Wayne State University and has planned and participated in numerous advance training sessions, including more than 1,500 hours of advance and specialized training in case investigations, incident command training, managing high risk situations and homeland security. Chief Holt is also the co-founder to the Public Safety and Youth Forum and a frequent contributor to the Michigan Gang Research Project. He serves as the key liaison between the university and federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. Eric Huffman Agent/Owner Eric Huffman State Farm Insurance, Inc. Eric Huffman was born and raised in Detroit. He graduated from Tennessee State University with a B.S. in Business Management with a concentration in Marketing. While attending the university, Huffman became a member of the fraternity of Alpha Phi Alpha. He was a member of the business fraternity Phi Lambda Beta. He joined State Farm in 1985. In 1993, his entrepreneurial endeavors became evident and he became a State Farm agent. Huffman has a thriving agency and is very involved in serving the community in many ways. He served as a board member of the Advantage Academy of Detroit, a charter school. He is past president of the LSCO at Mumford High School. He was a mentor at Hampton Elementary (currently known as Palmer Park Academy). He currently serves as board chairman of the Metro Detroit YMCA. He was awarded a Community Service Award from the Detroit Urban League Guild for his outstanding leadership and commitment to the community. He also received the Spirit of State Farm Award for outstanding community service. He and his wife, Janice, have three children. Dr. Layne Hunt Principal Henry Ford High School A lifelong educator, Dr. Layne B. Hunt has long had the desire and dedication to serve others. Working in the field of education for 25 years, he has served in many capacities, starting as a custodian and reaching the highest level within a school system, Superintendent. In 2008. In every position he has touched the lives of others in a profound way. He has students serving throughout the country and around the world in various capacities. Former students are working in every field of study, including law, politics, education, medicine, sports and many others. Hunt maintains very close relationships with his students and their families because he loves them and cares about their growth and development. In fact, he said, "It has been and will always be my philosophy to establish lifelong relationships with my students because it matters when students know that someone is there who cares about them." Hunt was educated in the Detroit Public Schools, then moved on to WCCC College where he received an A.A in Liberal Arts, transferring to Eastern Michigan University where he obtained B.S, M.A, Ed.S, eventually enrolling in Nova Southeastern University where he earned his Ed.D. in Educational Leadership. The first in his family to graduate from college, Hunt credits his father and grandfather as the key motivators in directing and inspiring him to pursue his education and they were very successful. He believes he has made them proud. Louis E. James Owner, President & CEO MCLJASCO Louis E. James is president and CEO of Solutions for Energy Efficient Logistics (SEEL), JASCO International. JATDCO, QIC and JAMCAM - business ventures that service the automotive and energy industries. James' newest venture, SEEL is an energy program management company that won the Andromeda Star of Energy Award, one of the highest bestowed for outstanding work in the area of energy conservation. JASCO is a supply chain management company that has been twice awarded the prestigious Supplier of the Year Award by General Motors and Honda's Top Quality Award for two years. A community and civic servant, James was recently appointed chairman of the Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority, where he works to promote Detroit as a freight transportation and distribution hub for business. He also supports many other organizations, including: the Coleman A. Young Foundation, the Wayne County Sheriff Youth & Senior Education Fund, NABS, MERC, SCLC, MMSDC, the NAACP and Detroit Area Council Boy Scouts, to name a few. Louis E. James is married to Dr. Pamela James and have two daughters and two grandchildren. Brandon A. Jessup Chairman Michigan Forward Brandon A. Jessup exemplifies the power and commitment of community leadership. His dedication to his community has led him to the forefront of this generation's leaders. As a bridge builder across race, ethnicity and class, Jessup's forward thinking has led to the creation of Michigan Forward a progressive public policy organization. He is currently the state African-American vote outreach director for Organizing for America, Michigan. In 2011, Jessup received numerous awards for his innovation and leadership. His alma mater, Eastern Michigan University, honored him as an Outstanding Young Alumnus. He also received Freedom Institute's Critical Thinking Award and a special tribute from the State of Michigan's Ninety-Sixth Legislature. Past honors include being named a Young History Maker by the Michigan Chronicle in 2010. Jessup also serves as chairman of Michigan Forward, a leader in the fight to repeal Michigan's Emergency Manager Law, a member of the Detroit Library Commission's Literacy Council, the African Caribbeanthamber of Commerce and the Democratic Party. He was bom in New Orleans and raised in Detroit. His parents are John and Mary Tuggle. Chuck Johnson Sports Information Director Detroit Public Schools Chuck Johnson, a career sports journalist who covered Major League Baseball and boxing for USA TODAY, is program supervisor and sports information director for Detroit Public Schools. He is charged with promoting positive media coverage of Detroit Public School League student-athletes for the purpose of maximizing their opportunities to earn college scholarships. A graduate of Northern High School and Michigan State University, Johnson's sports writing career spans parts of five decades. He is a Hall of Fame-voting member of the Baseball Writers' Association of America and the Boxing Writers Association of America. He has also reported on the NFL and NBA. Prior to his 20-year tenure at USA TODAY, he was a sports writer and columnist for 12 years at the Flint Journal where he was the Detroit Pistons beat writer. Johnson is a longtime member of the National Association of Black Journalists. In 2000, he was named NABJ Sports Journalist of the Year. He portrayed himself in the 2006 film, "Rocky Balboa." In 2008, he was inducted into MSU's State News Alumni Association Hall of Fame. He has a daughter, Janay, and a son, Julius. Dennis A. Johnson Senior Vice President and Chief Investment Officer Comerica Asset Management Group Dennis A. Johnson is chief investment officer for Comerica Asset Management Group, the investment management division of Comerica with $26.5 billion in assets under management. Comerica Asset Management Group is the largest investment management firm in Michigan and one of the 200 largest money management firms in the U.S. Johnson is responsible for the firm's passive and active investment strategies, alternative investments, new products, client relations and business development. In addition, he is the co-chair of the Comerica Investment Policy Committee, the governing body responsible for establishing the company's asset allocation policies. He also serves as Comerica's primary spokesperson in the national media on investments, asset allocation and other matters pertaining to the global financial markets. Johnson's 31 years of investment experience includes positions as managing director for Shamrock Capital Advisors, Inc., the registered investment advisory firm of the Roy E. Disney family; senior portfolio manager-Global Equity for the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CaIPERS); managing director for Citigroup and portfolio manager for SunTrust Bank. Dennis A. Johnson received his Master of Science in Finance from Virginia Commonwealth University and a Bachelor of Art in Economics from the Virginia Military Institute. He is a chartered financial analyst (CFA) charter holder, a member of the Chartered Financial Analyst Institute and the Chartered Financial Analyst Society of Detroit. He is also a member of the Detroit Economic Club. Gerald Johnson Manufacturing Manager, North America General Motors Corporation Gerald Johnson was appointed to manufacturing manager, North America, for General Motors in September 2009. In this position, he has responsibility for 13 manufacturing plants in the United States, including those locations known as GM Components Holding. He previous assignment was as executive director of Manufacturing in Glattbrugg, Switzerland, a position he has held since May 2006. Johnson began his career at General Motors in 1980 as a college co-op in Euclid, Michigan, for Delphi Automotive Components. Early in his career, he held a number of positions in Grand Blanc, Michigan, in the areas of human resources and stamping manufacturing. He has also held various manufacturing leadership positions in company operations in Marion, Indiana; Livonia, Michigan; Parma, Ohio; Mansfield, Ohio; Troy, Michigan; and Pontiac, Michigan. Gerald Johnson holds a bachelor's degree in Industrial Administration from Kettering University and a master's degree in Management from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Thomas W. Johnson MD, MBA Medical Director General Motors Dr. Thomas W. Johnson is a medical director with General Motors Truck Assembly. He has served in many capacities while at GM including eight years as senior medical director. Throughout his career, Dr. Johnson has dedicated his time to serving humanitarian interests locally and internationally. He has served on the Board of Directors of Imago Relations International, the Flint Health Coalition Board of Genesee County, and the Coalition Inc. He has participated in many medical missionary activities abroad. Dr. Johnson is a graduate of Meharry Medical College with an interest and expertise in health care quality and patient safety. He is a diplomate/fellow of the American Board of Quality Assurance Utilization Review Physicians and also holds a master of Business Administration. He plans to dedicate the remainder of his career to serving as a patient advocate helping to empower the underserved in navigating the U.S. health system. Johnson is a student of lsshinryu Karate. He is married to Gail Parker, Ph.D., and is the father of Jason Parker Johnson JD, MBA. Rev. Solomon Kinlock, Jr. Pastor Triumph Church Born to Solomon Sr. and Janie Kinloch, Solomon W. Kinloch, Jr. accepted the call to pastor at Triumph Church in 1998. At the beginning of his tenure, Triumph's membership was less than 50 people. Under Kinloch's visionary leadership, Triumph Church has blossomed into a multi-site phenomenon, hosting 10 weekly services at five campuses for its nearly 15,000 members (and counting). Even more amazing is that Pastor Kinloch preaches at every service, teaches every Bible Study, baptizes every member and dedicates every baby. Since 2008, the Christian publication Outreach magazine, has named Triumph Church one of the "Fastest Growing Churches" in the United States, and there are no signs of that trend slowing down as the church welcomes nearly 400 new members each month. Pastor Kinloch serves on several boards and has received countless awards and honors. In 2010, he married his best friend and love of his life, the former Robin Kemp. They are the proud parents of one son, Kadin Elijah, and guardians of two nephews, Ramone and Devonte Rainey. André L. Lee DPA, FACHE CEO Universal Hospice Care/Leeway Publications Consultant, ProCare Health Plan André L. Lee is the president of "Leeway Health Publications, LLC" and CEO of "Universal Hospice Care, Inc." Lee also is an administrative consultant and advisor to ProCare Health Plan of Michigan. He is co-owner and founder of the first African American Hospice in the U.S., Friendship Hospice of Nashville, Inc., New Orleans, Louisiana, Natchez, Mississippi. He served as CEO of Meharry-Hubbard Hospital-Nashville, Tennessee; Professional Services for St Joseph Hospital, Ft Wayne, Indiana; and CEO for Sidney Sumby Hospital and Highland Park General Hospital-Detroit. Lee has proudly served as national president of the National Association of Health Services Executives, and as a fellow in the American College of Health Care Executives, and ACHE Chapter president in Michigan. He is an adjunct professor in Healthcare Administration for Northwood University, Baker College, Strayer University and Kaplan University. Lee has been recognized as Senior Healthcare Executive of the Year-NAHSE 2010, Senior Healthcare Executive of Year-ACHE Michigan Regents Award 2011, and inducted into Delta Omega Honorary Society of Public Health (May 2012). Ellis Liddell President/CEO ELE Wealth Management Ellis Liddell is the president/CEO of ELE Wealth Management, LLC. With over 30 years of experience in the financial arena, Liddell is a wealth manager, insurance expert and retirement planning specialist. He is author of "Wealth Management: Merging Faith with Finance." Liddell's financial advice and commentary have been featured in the Detroit, Atlanta and Dallas areas. He is a regular guest on "Inside Detroit" with Mildred Gaddis and serves as financial consultant for WXYZ Channel 7. He has been in "Who's Who in Black Detroit," was selected by HOUR and DBusiness magazines as One of the Top Wealth Managers for 2010 and received the Entrepreneur of the Year Award from Alabama A&M University Alumni Association. He conducts financial seminars and workshops all across the country to businesses and churches. In 2007, he became the first African American to be ranked the No. 1 financial advisor two years in a row. Ellis Liddell's brand of financial planning is rooted in sound financial and Biblical principles. His motto is, "Wealth Is our legacy. Pass It on." DeAndre A. Lipscomb Vice President, Community Outreach Health Alliance Plan DeAndre A. Lipscomb is vice president of Community Outreach at Health Alliance Plan. He leads HAP's business development, community relations, member engagement and public relations strategies and programs. Prior to joining HAP in 2011, Lipscomb spent 13 years at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, most recently serving as director of Market Communications. Lipscomb earned a bachelor of arts degree from Wayne State University's honors journalism program. He is pursuing a Master of Administration in Leadership at Central Michigan University. He is a member of the following organizations: Society for Healthcare Strategy and Market Development, Council of Michigan Foundation's Business Contributions Committee, National Management Association, International Association of Business Communicators, WSU Alumni Association, 100 Black Men of Greater Detroit, NAACP and the Urban League of Detroit and Southeastern Michigan. Lipscomb also serves as vice president of the Board of Directors for Spaulding for Children and board member of Winning Futures, recognized as Michigan's 2007 Innovative Mentoring Program of the Year. He and his wife, Michelle, have three sons and reside in Farmington Hills. David E. Nathan Legislator-State Representative State of Michigan State Representative David E. Nathan is serving his second term in the Michigan House of Representatives. He represents the 11th District, which is comprised of northwest Detroit and an eastern portion of Dearborn. Representative Nathan has been a champion for education in Detroit, evidenced by his appointment as chair of the House Education Committee, Subcommittee on Academic Emergencies. He has been named Legislator of the Year by the Property Management Association of Michigan and recognized by the Lodging and Tourism Association of Michigan for his outstanding work in the House. His concern for his community led him to become more politically active. He has served as precinct delegate; vice-president of Grandmont Community Association; Detroit Public Schools parent volunteer; police cadet; and Little League coach. He was active in the Metropolitan Youth Foundation and achieved one of the highest honors in the Boy Scouts of America by earning the rank of Eagle Scout. David E. Nathan continues his commitment to serving his community by sponsoring a number of well received programs in his district to help improve the quality of life of its residents. Darryl Nolen Administrative Assistant UAW National Ford Department Darryl Nolen was appointed International Representative, January 6, 2008, and proudly serves as an administrative assistant to Vice President Jimmy Settles, Jr. He is assigned to the National Ford Department. There, he oversees the day to day activities at Ford Motor Company Vehicle Assembly plants, Stamping Business Units and Ford Customer Service Division Parts Depots. Nolen began his career as a trade union activist in 1988, when he joined UAW Local 900 upon starting work at Ford Motor Co.'s Michigan Truck Plant in Wayne. He was elected to positions of increasing responsibility by his coworkers, starting in 1996 with his election as a district committee person. From 1999 to 2005, he served consecutive terms as UAW Plant Bargaining Committee representative. In 2005, he was elected to the highest ranking UAW position in the plant, UAW plant chairman. He is a proud member of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists and a lifetime member of the NAACP. Nolen and his wife, Pamela, live in West Bloomfield. Both attend Triumph Church. Marc Robert Owner Marc Robert Experience Men's Grooming Services Marc Robert is the founder and owner of the only male grooming spa in the Michigan, known for being one of the best grooming spas for men in the entire country, the Marc Robert Experience, located in Southfield. He was named Ambassador and Uptown magazines' best barbershop of 2011. As a very successful entrepreneur his entire life, Robert is a highly accomplished and nationally sought after visionary in the $4 billion dollar barbering industry. As a master barber, his career has spanned over 20 years, from a traveling professional male groomer to numerous Hollywood elite, styling for film and television shows, to grooming top athletes and Grammy Award winning recording artists. All of this was done while dedicating himself to sharing his expertise with the next generation by facilitating classes, producing instructional videos and giving motivational speeches to professionals and youth on entrepreneurship. Robert, a native of Detroit, is in the process of responding to the demand of his grooming spa concept and expanding to major urban markets throughout the country. Detavio R. Samuels EVP, Director of Client Services GlobalHue Detavio R. Samuels, GlobalHue executive vice president, Client Services, is an accomplished marketer with experience on both the client and agency side of the business. In his current capacity, Samuels is responsible for the overall management, strategic vision and growth of the accounts within the Detroit office covering automotive, lending, public sector, sports and retail. In the digital space, Samuels has established a presence that continues to be recognized. In 2009 his blog was selected as one of the 100 Best Blogs for MBA Students, and he was named one of the "Top 30 under 30 Tweeters" for his twitterfeed. Prior to joining GlobalHue, Samuels was at Ethicon, one of Johnson & Johnson's largest medical device companies, doing global marketing. There, he managed brands within one of their fastest growing divisions and was responsible for taking teams to countries like Columbia, Spain and Brazil in order to train surgeons on their products. Before Johnson & Johnson, Samuels attended Stanford University, where he received his master's degrees in Business Administration and Education. He completed his undergraduate work at Duke University. Kevin A. Smith, Esq. Chief of Staff to the Emergency Manager Detroit Public Schools Kevin A. Smith is chief of staff to Roy S. Roberts, emergency manager of Detroit Public Schools, where he provides policy and legal advice to public officials on state and local municipal law, school law and public finance, including deficit financing. Smith was a bond attorney and partner at Miller, Canfield, Paddock and Stone, PLLC, where he practiced for 13 years. He left that firm in 2011 to become managing partner of Public Solutions Group, PLLC, and to serve as a policy advisor to U.S. Congressman Gary C. Peters for the 9th District of Michigan before eventually joining DPS. Previously he served as judicial law clerk to the Honorable Damon J. Keith of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit. Smith is a graduate of Renaissance High School, has a B.A. in Business from Michigan State University, Eli Broad School of Business, and a J.D. from Wayne State University Law School, where he was a member of the Wayne Law Review. His community affiliations include chairman of the Mosaic Youth Theater Board, Leadership Detroit XXVIII, and Founders Junior Council Board of the DIA. He is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. T.L. Summerville, Esq. Member Dykema Gossett PLLC T.L. Summerville is a member of the Litigation Group in Dykema's Detroit office and focuses his practice on business and commercial disputes and consumer finance matters. He has successfully represented clients in breach of contract and fraud cases, real estate development suits, construction litigation cases, environmental contamination actions, matters involving consumer credit and residential mortgages, automotive supplier disputes. His practice also includes advising and assisting clients responding to requests for information or documents in connection with criminal investigations in federal and state courts and providing litigation avoidance advice. An active member of the Detroit community, Summerville is the president of the Wolverine Bar Association, one of the oldest African-American bar associations in the country, a member of the Board of Directors of the Rhonda Walker Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering inner-city teen girls, and a member of the State Bar of Michigan's Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Committee. Summerville is a graduate of the University of Michigan and received his law degree from Fordham University School of Law in New York City. Sid E. Taylor Chairman & CEO SET Enterprises, Inc. & Real Life 101 Sid E. Taylor left a management position with General Motors after 22 years and founded SET Enterprises, Inc. in 1989. SET Enterprises provided exposed and unexposed blanking, slitting and other processing services. He started two new companies in 2009 in Detroit, and built a new 70,000 sq. ft. state- of-the-Art steel processing facility in Jackson, Alabama in 2012. Taylor, a former United States Marine and Vietnam veteran, received an honorary doctorate in Humane Letters from Madonna University in May 2012, studied business management at the University of Detroit and completed executive management programs at GMI, Northwestern and others. Taylor is the chairman and founder of the Real Life 101 Scholarship Fund, a national organization that provides scholarships, laptops and mentors to at-risk African-American males graduating from high school. He also established the Feed the Needy program that provides complete Thanksgiving dinners for over 250 families in Detroit. He has been married to his wife, Donna, for 40 years and has two sons. Robert Thornton Program Officer The Skillman Foundation Robert Thornton is a program officer with The Skillman Foundation in Detroit where he manages a highly diversified grant portfolio and is responsible for the coordination of the Foundation's comprehensive community change work in the Brightmoor, Chadsey Condon and Cody Rouge communities. In addition, he manages the Foundation's Faith-based and Fatherhood portfolios as well as the Foundation's emerging work to improve life outcomes for African American and Latino Boys. Thornton's true passion is demonstrated via his unwavering commitment and advocacy on behalf of young people. His community involvement is extensive, including serving on the Board of Directors for Black Family Development, Inc., Oakland University Black Alumni Association, Highland Park Business Association and the Wayne County Health and Family Service Head Start Fatherhood Advisory Council. He is a member of the Association of Black Foundation Executives, Michigan Forum of Blacks in Philanthropy, and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. (Nu Omega Chapter). He is a life-long resident of metropolitan Detroit, the father of two adult sons and serves faithfully as a deacon at the Hartford Memorial Baptist Church. Damon Tooles President & CEO Tooles Contracting Group Damon Tooles is president and CEO of Tooles Contracting Group, a Detroit-based general contractor, construction management and equipment installation firm. Started in 2006, the company has carved a niche in government, transportation, utility and health care projects. It services clients in 14 states and saw its revenues grow from $38 million in 2010 to $46 million in 2011. Among its clients: The Detroit Water and Sewerage Department, The Detroit Regional Convention Authority (COBO), Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), The Detroit Riverfront Conservancy, City of Dearborn, The Federal Aviation Administration, Detroit Public Schools and DTE Energy. A native Detroiter, Tooles has also focused on giving back. The company last year donated labor and equipment to help construct a Habitat for Humanity home, adopted a needy family and supports Think Detroit PAL. Tooles' entrepreneurial spirit began at age 11 when he earned money mowing neighbors' lawns, but the true inspiration is his mother Jul ia Ann Tooles. The single mother raised three children, "and instilled in me the value and importance of friendship and family. And that has helped me prosper to this day." William L. Toples Director, Service Operations Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan William L. Toples (Bill) is a director at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan (BCBSM) where he is responsible for building and sustaining workplace diversity and inclusion and employee engagement for the Operations Division. Toples joined BCBSM in 1983 and was appointed to his current position in March 2011 following several leadership positions in the Human Resources and Community Responsibility areas of the company. Toples was employed for seven years with the Ford Motor Company prior to joining BCBSM. He received a bachelor's degree in Communications from the University of Detroit. Toples is a member of the Detroit Branch NAACP, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, and 100 Black Men of Greater Detroit, Inc. He is the past chair of the health and wellness committee with the 100 and was a contributor to the development of the "Man Up for Better Health" campaign in partnership with BCBSM. Toples has been married to his wife, Vera, for nearly 35 years. They have one daughter, Ashleigh Kristina, a graduate of the Wayne State University Law School. Toples is a faithful member of the Historic People's Community Church in Detroit. Derek Ware Executive Administrator/Chief of Staff Detroit Community Health Connection Derek Ware is the executive administrator and chief of staff for Detroit Community Health Connection (DCHC), a non-profit community-based primary healthcare organization, founded in 1988 to provide comprehensive healthcare to the uninsured and underinsured residents of the city of Detroit regardless of their ability to pay. He is responsible for procurement services, community affairs, marketing and fund development. Before joining DCHC, Ware held several positions at Focus: HOPE, from purchasing coordinator to assistant director of the Food Prescription Program. He was also director of Materials Management at Michigan Osteopathic. A lifelong Detroiter, Ware is a graduate of Northern Senior High School and studied at Central State University and the University of Phoenix. His devotion and commitment to the city and surrounding communities are demonstrated by his participation in many Metro Detroit activities. He is involved in several community and professional organizations including the NAACP, Detroit Branch-Freedom Fund Dinner Executive Committee, Metro Youth Day Executive Committee, Adopt-a-Child Program-North End Youth Improvement Council (co-chair), National Association of Purchasing Management, Friends of DCHC Advisory Board (co-chair), National Association of Community Health Centers, Jefferson East Business Association. He is also active on the Chapel Vision Community Development Corporation board. Glenn E. Wash Owner/CEO Glenn E. Wash & Associates, Inc. G.E. Wash Construction started in 1967 and has opened doors for others to follow. Renamed Glenn E. Wash & Associates in 1977, it became one of the first Black multimillion dollar companies in the country, concentrating on developing, constructing and managing. Livernois Square and Associates, Meyers Court Apartments and Schaefer-Lyndon Self Storage are examples. Wash has always ensured that African-American contractors had a fair share in the construction market. He has brought the skills and experience of many qualified developers to the attention of Detroit's civic leaders. Born in Grand Rapids, Wash is the product of the public and private school system. He attended McMichael Intermediate, Cass Technical High School, Highland Park Junior College and the University of Detroit. He later began to work in his chosen profession, construction, for companies such companies as H.L. Vokes, Practical Homes, AJ Etkin, all Detroit firms, and H.L. Vokes of Cleveland, Ohio, supervising the construction of Howard Johnson, West Grand Boulevard and Third Avenue. Other projects include military housing - Fort Custer; public housing - Benton Harbor, Inkster, Ecorse, Northern High School addition and the parking structure adjacent to the Fisher Building. Donnell R. White Executive Director Detroit Branch NAACP Donnell R. White, recognized as one of Detroit's emerging leaders, continues a family legacy of being civically engaged, culturally connected and spiritually lead. White entered the Detroit Branch NAACP as an administrative assistant in 2003 and was promoted to Youth & Education director in 2004. Having distinguished himself as an unrelenting force in the civil rights and social justice community, he was appointed to the position of deputy executive director in 2007. Appointed executive director in October of 2011, White continues to serve in that capacity and holds the distinction of being the youngest executive director in the history of the NAACP. White has become immersed within the community through various initiatives. He was appointed by Mayor Dave Bing as Detroit Police commissioner in December of 2010. For his unwavering commitment at a young age, he was the recipient of the 2010 Michigan FrontPage Newspaper's inaugural FP: Thirty Award. He was also the recipient of the 2007 Michigan Chronicle's Contemporary Pioneer of the Year Award. In addition, he received the 2005 Fifth Third Bank Young History Makers Award, multiple Spirit of Detroit Awards and various other acknowledgements. Donnell R. White continues to be outstanding for his activism in the community. Larry Wilkerson CPA Wilkerson & Associates, P.C. Larry Wilkerson was born in Ecorse, the ninth of ten children. He graduated from Ecorse High School, Highland Park Community College and the University of Michigan Business School (1978). He started his career with Price Waterhouse in Detroit, where he worked in the audit and tax departments. He became a licensed CPA in 1981. Wilkerson started Wilkerson & Associates, P.C. in March 1982. The firm has employed over 200 accountants and consultants over the past 30 years and has represented the City of Detroit, Detroit Public Schools, Ecorse and lnkster Public Schools, City of Ecorse and Pontiac. Currently, the firm represents over 25 schools in the metropolitan Detroit area, providing audit and accounting services. Wilkerson is a member of the American Institute of CPA's and the Michigan Association of CPA's. He is a lifetime member of the NAACP and the U of M Alumni Association. He is a member of Historic Little Rock Baptist Church and Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Ecorse. Wilkerson has three children and four grandchildren. Michael E. Williams President and Chief Executive Officer Orchards Children's Services, Inc. For nine years, Michael E. Williams has served as president and chief executive officer of Orchards Children's Services, Inc. He has forged new paths for the organization by working closely with board members to foster a culture of philanthropy. He has also restructured Orchards' programming to include preventive family preservation models, education, and workforce development initiatives. He has expanded Orchards regionally, enhancing its community presence and brand recognition. Under Williams' leadership, Orchards has been recognized nationally for its service delivery by the national Council on Accreditation. Orchards also received the Detroit Free Press Top Workplace designation for the last two years. Beyond Orchards, Williams serves as president of the Association of Accredited Child and Family Agencies. He is an active participant in the National Black Child Development Institute and was selected for Strathmore's and Empire's "Who's Who" list of executives. Before Orchards, Michael E. Williams served as president of Starr Vista, Inc. Care Management Organization. He has won the Michigan's Children Heroes Award and the Leadership Award from Detroit Community Health Connection, Inc. He has dedicated his career to supporting children and families. At home, he is a loving husband and father. Hiram E. Jackson Chief Executive Officer, Real Times Media Interim Publisher Michigan Chronicle (c) 2012 Michigan Chronicle |