Chrissy Thornton
Regional Teen Advisor
Eastern Region, Jack and Jill of America, Inc.
Chaperone Certification
Teen Leadership Bootcamp
Going With the Flow: Engaging Teens Where They Are
Regional Teen Advisor
Eastern Region, Jack and Jill of America, Inc.
Chaperone Certification
Teen Leadership Bootcamp
Going With the Flow: Engaging Teens Where They Are
Ingrid Parris-Hicklin
President and CEO
Ingrid’s World, LLC
Town Hall: The Black State of the Union: Issues Affecting the Black Community
Ingrid Parris-Hicklin is the President and CEO of Ingrid’s World, LLC and is the producer and host of Ingrid’s World Television Show. The show can be seen on Channel 10, Dish TV Channel 8, YouTube, and www.ingridsworld.org. In 2018 Ingrid’s World was awarded a Silver People’s Telly Award. Ingrid retired from Fairfax County Government as the Deputy Director for the Office of Public Private Partnerships. She also received her Bachelor of Arts degree from City University of New York. She is a Certified Public Manager, which was awarded by George Washington University and Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments Institute for Regional Excellence. She is a member and Past President of the Rotary Club of Tysons Corner. She also is a member and Past President of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., Prince William County. She is a charter member and Chaplin of The Links Incorporated, Old Dominion (VA) Chapter. Currently she serves on the Board of Directors, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Arlington.
President and CEO
Ingrid’s World, LLC
Town Hall: The Black State of the Union: Issues Affecting the Black Community
Ingrid Parris-Hicklin is the President and CEO of Ingrid’s World, LLC and is the producer and host of Ingrid’s World Television Show. The show can be seen on Channel 10, Dish TV Channel 8, YouTube, and www.ingridsworld.org. In 2018 Ingrid’s World was awarded a Silver People’s Telly Award. Ingrid retired from Fairfax County Government as the Deputy Director for the Office of Public Private Partnerships. She also received her Bachelor of Arts degree from City University of New York. She is a Certified Public Manager, which was awarded by George Washington University and Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments Institute for Regional Excellence. She is a member and Past President of the Rotary Club of Tysons Corner. She also is a member and Past President of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., Prince William County. She is a charter member and Chaplin of The Links Incorporated, Old Dominion (VA) Chapter. Currently she serves on the Board of Directors, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Arlington.
Dr. Maya Rockeymoore Cummings
Social Entrepreneur, Speaker, Writer, and Strategist
Town Hall: The Black State of the Union: Issues Affecting the Black Community
Dr. Maya Rockeymoore Cummings is a social entrepreneur, speaker, writer, and strategist who’s on a mission to drive society toward inclusion. After a quarter of a century of working on innovative public policy and multimillion-dollar social change initiatives in the government, nonprofit, and private sectors, Maya is a policy and political expert who understands how to build and sustain cross-sector collaborations, diverse coalitions, dynamic diversity, equity, and inclusion strategies, and effective education campaigns. An accomplished public speaker and author, Maya has appeared in a variety of media outlets such as CBS, CNN, MSNBC, Fox News and BET and her writings have been published in the New York Times, The Atlantic, The Huffington Post, and the Washington Post among other publications. She has served on numerous boards including the National Association of Counties Financial Services Corporation, the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare, and the National Academy of Social Insurance. She is the recipient of multiple honors and has been a candidate for Maryland governor and the U.S. Congress. A former chair of the Maryland Democratic Party, Maya earned her B.A. in political science from Prairie View A&M University and her M.A. and Ph.D. in political science, with an emphasis in public policy, from Purdue University. She is the widow of the late Congressman Elijah E. Cummings and lives in West Baltimore with her dog Andy.
Social Entrepreneur, Speaker, Writer, and Strategist
Town Hall: The Black State of the Union: Issues Affecting the Black Community
Dr. Maya Rockeymoore Cummings is a social entrepreneur, speaker, writer, and strategist who’s on a mission to drive society toward inclusion. After a quarter of a century of working on innovative public policy and multimillion-dollar social change initiatives in the government, nonprofit, and private sectors, Maya is a policy and political expert who understands how to build and sustain cross-sector collaborations, diverse coalitions, dynamic diversity, equity, and inclusion strategies, and effective education campaigns. An accomplished public speaker and author, Maya has appeared in a variety of media outlets such as CBS, CNN, MSNBC, Fox News and BET and her writings have been published in the New York Times, The Atlantic, The Huffington Post, and the Washington Post among other publications. She has served on numerous boards including the National Association of Counties Financial Services Corporation, the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare, and the National Academy of Social Insurance. She is the recipient of multiple honors and has been a candidate for Maryland governor and the U.S. Congress. A former chair of the Maryland Democratic Party, Maya earned her B.A. in political science from Prairie View A&M University and her M.A. and Ph.D. in political science, with an emphasis in public policy, from Purdue University. She is the widow of the late Congressman Elijah E. Cummings and lives in West Baltimore with her dog Andy.
Dr. Michael Eric Dyson
Professor of African American and Diaspora Studies
Vanderbilt University
Town Hall: The Black State of the Union: Issues Affecting the Black Community
Dr. Michael Eric Dyson is a distinguished University Professor of African American and Diaspora Studies, College of Arts & Science, and Distinguished University Professor of Ethics and Society, The Divinity School, and Centennial Professor at Vanderbilt University — is one of America’s premier public intellectuals and author of over 20 books, including seven New York Times bestsellers. A contributing opinion writer for the New York Times, and political analyst for MSNBC, Dyson is recipient of two NAACP Image Awards and the 2020 Langston Hughes Festival Medallion. Former President Barack Obama has noted: “Everybody who speaks after Michael Eric Dyson pales in comparison.”
Professor of African American and Diaspora Studies
Vanderbilt University
Town Hall: The Black State of the Union: Issues Affecting the Black Community
Dr. Michael Eric Dyson is a distinguished University Professor of African American and Diaspora Studies, College of Arts & Science, and Distinguished University Professor of Ethics and Society, The Divinity School, and Centennial Professor at Vanderbilt University — is one of America’s premier public intellectuals and author of over 20 books, including seven New York Times bestsellers. A contributing opinion writer for the New York Times, and political analyst for MSNBC, Dyson is recipient of two NAACP Image Awards and the 2020 Langston Hughes Festival Medallion. Former President Barack Obama has noted: “Everybody who speaks after Michael Eric Dyson pales in comparison.”
Kelly Yiadom
Founder
Family Alliance for Respect and Equity
Parental Superpowers to Drive Diversity in Education
Kelly Yiadom is an educator and community leader who believes in being solution-oriented for impact. For 15 years, she successfully taught middle and upper elementary school and ensured that social-emotional growth was at the forefront of her students’ learning experience. This is what led Kelly to found Family Alliance for Respect and Equity (F.A.R.E.); a parent diversity group within a Delaware County, Pennsylvania School District that focuses on creating diversity awareness and cultural proficiency amongst students, teachers, and administrators. She chronicled her experiences, about creating a new normal in educational settings, by delivering a TEDx Talk on Using Parental Superpowers to Drive Diversity in Education. Because of her focus on action for change, she also founded the Circle of Giving 2020, which was a direct response to ensuring equity and access to families who have been impacted by the pandemic. Kelly graduated from Swarthmore College, where she received her Bachelor of Arts in English Literature, with a special major in education. She currently serves as the Equity and Inclusion Coordinator for Westtown’s Lower School and is married to her college sweetheart, of 14 years, with whom she has 3 children.
Founder
Family Alliance for Respect and Equity
Parental Superpowers to Drive Diversity in Education
Kelly Yiadom is an educator and community leader who believes in being solution-oriented for impact. For 15 years, she successfully taught middle and upper elementary school and ensured that social-emotional growth was at the forefront of her students’ learning experience. This is what led Kelly to found Family Alliance for Respect and Equity (F.A.R.E.); a parent diversity group within a Delaware County, Pennsylvania School District that focuses on creating diversity awareness and cultural proficiency amongst students, teachers, and administrators. She chronicled her experiences, about creating a new normal in educational settings, by delivering a TEDx Talk on Using Parental Superpowers to Drive Diversity in Education. Because of her focus on action for change, she also founded the Circle of Giving 2020, which was a direct response to ensuring equity and access to families who have been impacted by the pandemic. Kelly graduated from Swarthmore College, where she received her Bachelor of Arts in English Literature, with a special major in education. She currently serves as the Equity and Inclusion Coordinator for Westtown’s Lower School and is married to her college sweetheart, of 14 years, with whom she has 3 children.
Myra Cornwell
Beauty Expert & Advisor
Makeup Workshop: How to do a quick and light “beat” to be Zoom camera ready
Myra Cornwell is a beauty expert and advisor. When it comes to beauty and skincare, Myra Cornwell is the one to know. She has worked in the beauty business for over 30 years for leading cosmetic brands including Shiseido, Laura Mercier, Bobbi Brown, Tom Ford, and Crème de le Mar just to name a few.
Myra’s beauty career also includes Account Coordinator and Account Executive for major beauty brands, Founder and Owner of a Day Spa in Atlanta, and Cosmetic Department Manager for Nordstrom. She is no stranger to the beauty and skincare industry.
Myra continues to look forward to working with and teaching anyone the best techniques for skincare and makeup application. It can be an overwhelming industry but people like Myra Cornwell make it easier and enjoyable.
Beauty Expert & Advisor
Makeup Workshop: How to do a quick and light “beat” to be Zoom camera ready
Myra Cornwell is a beauty expert and advisor. When it comes to beauty and skincare, Myra Cornwell is the one to know. She has worked in the beauty business for over 30 years for leading cosmetic brands including Shiseido, Laura Mercier, Bobbi Brown, Tom Ford, and Crème de le Mar just to name a few.
Myra’s beauty career also includes Account Coordinator and Account Executive for major beauty brands, Founder and Owner of a Day Spa in Atlanta, and Cosmetic Department Manager for Nordstrom. She is no stranger to the beauty and skincare industry.
Myra continues to look forward to working with and teaching anyone the best techniques for skincare and makeup application. It can be an overwhelming industry but people like Myra Cornwell make it easier and enjoyable.
Monica Harper Alston
Environment, Health and Safety, Sustainability and Fleet
Comcast Cable
The Empty Nest: Life After Jack & Jill
Monica Harper Alston possesses over 25 years of environmental, health and safety (EHS) experience solving complex business issues in diverse industries and non-governmental organizations in developed, developing and emerging markets. She is a strategic, visionary, collaborative leader and consensus-builder for achieving business objectives; assuring regulatory compliance; driving world class EHS performance and supporting sustainable business growth.
She currently oversees Environment, Health and Safety, Sustainability and Fleet for Comcast Cable Freedom Region where she drives a sustainable culture of safety and environmental stewardship. She creates the vision, sets strategy and leads a team to reduce operational risks & hazards; protect employees, customers and the public; develop sustainable operations; reduce our carbon footprint and support achievement of business objectives.
As a member of Jack and Jill of America, Inc for over 15 years, Monica has held a variety of leadership Roles. She most recently served as Chair of the Eastern Region Strategic Planning & Relevance Committee, Eastern Region representative on the National Strategic Planning & Relevance Committee and is a Past President of the Chester County Chapter and a Past President of the Southwest Michigan Chapter. Monica holds a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from Drexel University, a Master’s of Science degree in Environmental Engineering from Villanova University and numerous technical and professional certifications. She enjoys traveling, entertaining, the arts and spending time with family.
Environment, Health and Safety, Sustainability and Fleet
Comcast Cable
The Empty Nest: Life After Jack & Jill
Monica Harper Alston possesses over 25 years of environmental, health and safety (EHS) experience solving complex business issues in diverse industries and non-governmental organizations in developed, developing and emerging markets. She is a strategic, visionary, collaborative leader and consensus-builder for achieving business objectives; assuring regulatory compliance; driving world class EHS performance and supporting sustainable business growth.
She currently oversees Environment, Health and Safety, Sustainability and Fleet for Comcast Cable Freedom Region where she drives a sustainable culture of safety and environmental stewardship. She creates the vision, sets strategy and leads a team to reduce operational risks & hazards; protect employees, customers and the public; develop sustainable operations; reduce our carbon footprint and support achievement of business objectives.
As a member of Jack and Jill of America, Inc for over 15 years, Monica has held a variety of leadership Roles. She most recently served as Chair of the Eastern Region Strategic Planning & Relevance Committee, Eastern Region representative on the National Strategic Planning & Relevance Committee and is a Past President of the Chester County Chapter and a Past President of the Southwest Michigan Chapter. Monica holds a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from Drexel University, a Master’s of Science degree in Environmental Engineering from Villanova University and numerous technical and professional certifications. She enjoys traveling, entertaining, the arts and spending time with family.
Yvette Franklin
President & Owner
Designer Events, Inc.
The Empty Nest: Life After Jack & Jill
A prominent business executive and corporate event organizer in the Greater Philadelphia area for over 20+ years, Yvette Franklin is the President and Owner of Designer Events, Inc. The company has evolved into a full-service, meeting and event logistic management company specializing in staging high-level corporate functions, non-profit fundraising events, private social events and weddings, locally and Internationally. Her successful events and rave reviews have led to features in a variety of publications such as The New York Times and Grace Ormonde magazine.
Yvette Franklin’s business drive for event management is balanced with a sincere commitment to community. Yvette is a member of St. Paul’s Baptist Church located in West Chester, PA, several social and civic organizations, including Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. – lifetime member, Jack and Jill of America, Inc. – Associate Member and The Links, Inc.
Currently, she resides in Exton, Pennsylvania with her husband Keith of 34 years and her two children, Kelsey, 27 years old and Keith II, 22 years old.
President & Owner
Designer Events, Inc.
The Empty Nest: Life After Jack & Jill
A prominent business executive and corporate event organizer in the Greater Philadelphia area for over 20+ years, Yvette Franklin is the President and Owner of Designer Events, Inc. The company has evolved into a full-service, meeting and event logistic management company specializing in staging high-level corporate functions, non-profit fundraising events, private social events and weddings, locally and Internationally. Her successful events and rave reviews have led to features in a variety of publications such as The New York Times and Grace Ormonde magazine.
Yvette Franklin’s business drive for event management is balanced with a sincere commitment to community. Yvette is a member of St. Paul’s Baptist Church located in West Chester, PA, several social and civic organizations, including Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. – lifetime member, Jack and Jill of America, Inc. – Associate Member and The Links, Inc.
Currently, she resides in Exton, Pennsylvania with her husband Keith of 34 years and her two children, Kelsey, 27 years old and Keith II, 22 years old.
Dr. Frances Rita Kearney Wood
Owner & Executive Director
Wood Educational Consulting, Inc.
The Empty Nest: Life After Jack & Jill
Dr. Frances Rita Kearney Wood is a proud founding Mother of the Jack & Jill Prince William County Chapter and a cherished Associate Member of the Chapter. Born in Brooklyn, New York and raised in Norfolk, Virginia, Dr. Wood holds a Bachelors of Arts in English/Speech and Drama from Norfolk State University and a Masters and Ph.D in Education from George Mason University. She is owner and Executive Director of Wood Educational Consulting, Inc. Dr. Wood has served as deaconess at First Mt. Zion Baptist Church for forty years and is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She is the founder of the Black Family Forum, a community activist, and public speaker. Dr. Wood has a passion for fitness and is a certified group exercise instructor. She is the proud mother of a son and a daughter and grandmother of one granddaughter. One of the greatest joys of her life was forging lasting relationships with the Mothers and families of Jack & Jill.
Owner & Executive Director
Wood Educational Consulting, Inc.
The Empty Nest: Life After Jack & Jill
Dr. Frances Rita Kearney Wood is a proud founding Mother of the Jack & Jill Prince William County Chapter and a cherished Associate Member of the Chapter. Born in Brooklyn, New York and raised in Norfolk, Virginia, Dr. Wood holds a Bachelors of Arts in English/Speech and Drama from Norfolk State University and a Masters and Ph.D in Education from George Mason University. She is owner and Executive Director of Wood Educational Consulting, Inc. Dr. Wood has served as deaconess at First Mt. Zion Baptist Church for forty years and is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She is the founder of the Black Family Forum, a community activist, and public speaker. Dr. Wood has a passion for fitness and is a certified group exercise instructor. She is the proud mother of a son and a daughter and grandmother of one granddaughter. One of the greatest joys of her life was forging lasting relationships with the Mothers and families of Jack & Jill.
Melanie Grant Jones
Senior Attorney
U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission & Exchange Commission
The Empty Nest: Life After Jack & Jill
Melanie Grant Jones is a Senior Attorney with the U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission & Exchange Commission, advising senior management in ethics and employment law matters. She received her B.A. degree from Spelman College and J.D. degree from Columbia University School of Law in the City of New York.
Melanie has boundless energy for multiple service organizations including the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Washington, Prince William County Region, where she serves as Board Secretary; the D.C. Pro Bono Bar, where she provides free legal counsel to D.C. residents in trusts and estates matters; and her beloved Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She enthusiastically served the Contra Costa County and Prince William County Chapters of Jack & Jill of America, Inc. as Vice President, Secretary, Program Director & Teen Advisor and was a member of the Regional Legislative Committee. She currently Chairs the Associate Mothers Group, Prince William County Chapter. She is forever grateful to Jack and Jill for providing countless opportunities for Mothers to mentor and mold our youth and for helping to forge life-long friendships.
Melanie has a newfound passion for golf and recently organized the Queen Tee Divas Golfing Group with her neighbors. Melanie and her husband Tyree are truly blessed to be on the verge of being empty nesters -- their son Connor will graduate from the University of Illinois in December 2020; twin daughters Sinclaire and Madison will graduate from Georgetown University and the U.S. Naval Academy in May 2021
Senior Attorney
U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission & Exchange Commission
The Empty Nest: Life After Jack & Jill
Melanie Grant Jones is a Senior Attorney with the U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission & Exchange Commission, advising senior management in ethics and employment law matters. She received her B.A. degree from Spelman College and J.D. degree from Columbia University School of Law in the City of New York.
Melanie has boundless energy for multiple service organizations including the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Washington, Prince William County Region, where she serves as Board Secretary; the D.C. Pro Bono Bar, where she provides free legal counsel to D.C. residents in trusts and estates matters; and her beloved Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She enthusiastically served the Contra Costa County and Prince William County Chapters of Jack & Jill of America, Inc. as Vice President, Secretary, Program Director & Teen Advisor and was a member of the Regional Legislative Committee. She currently Chairs the Associate Mothers Group, Prince William County Chapter. She is forever grateful to Jack and Jill for providing countless opportunities for Mothers to mentor and mold our youth and for helping to forge life-long friendships.
Melanie has a newfound passion for golf and recently organized the Queen Tee Divas Golfing Group with her neighbors. Melanie and her husband Tyree are truly blessed to be on the verge of being empty nesters -- their son Connor will graduate from the University of Illinois in December 2020; twin daughters Sinclaire and Madison will graduate from Georgetown University and the U.S. Naval Academy in May 2021
Sparkle Hill
Make Up Artist
Main Line Beauty Studio
Skincare for Teens
Sparkle Hill: For over 17 years, celebrity makeup artist (MUA) Sparkle Hill, has graced the faces of Philadelphia's finest. This talented young artist is no stranger to the world of beauty and all of it's elements. From bridal parties and proms all the way up to New York City high-fashion runways.
As a child, Sparkle loved to model and play dress up in her grandmother's clothes. In her teenage years she decided to become a model and entered a beauty pageant and won the Ms. Pennsylvania title. Even though she didn't win the pageant, she continued to model throughout her remaining teenage years.
Sparkle has always loved "Art" as a whole and has finally decided to combine her artistry skills along with beauty and her own personal style. Since then, she has become one of the most sought after regional artists in Philadelphia, New York City, New Jersey and Delaware areas for several prestige cosmetic lines.
In addition, Sparkle has 6 seasons as a lead artist with New York City and Philadelphia's Fashion Week. She also has several personal relationships with Top Photographers and Designers including Serena Williams and Renee Hill just to name a few. Sparkle now works with HSN, Comcast, Dell, Marie Claire Magazine, Ebony Magazine, Essence Magazine, Bust Magazine, Numodemag, Philadelphia Magazine, Black Enterprise Magazine and many many more.
In September 2019, Sparkle opened Main Line Beauty Studio that will service the tri-state area. She will have one of the first private makeup salons on the Main Line in beautiful Ardmore Pennsylvania.
Make Up Artist
Main Line Beauty Studio
Skincare for Teens
Sparkle Hill: For over 17 years, celebrity makeup artist (MUA) Sparkle Hill, has graced the faces of Philadelphia's finest. This talented young artist is no stranger to the world of beauty and all of it's elements. From bridal parties and proms all the way up to New York City high-fashion runways.
As a child, Sparkle loved to model and play dress up in her grandmother's clothes. In her teenage years she decided to become a model and entered a beauty pageant and won the Ms. Pennsylvania title. Even though she didn't win the pageant, she continued to model throughout her remaining teenage years.
Sparkle has always loved "Art" as a whole and has finally decided to combine her artistry skills along with beauty and her own personal style. Since then, she has become one of the most sought after regional artists in Philadelphia, New York City, New Jersey and Delaware areas for several prestige cosmetic lines.
In addition, Sparkle has 6 seasons as a lead artist with New York City and Philadelphia's Fashion Week. She also has several personal relationships with Top Photographers and Designers including Serena Williams and Renee Hill just to name a few. Sparkle now works with HSN, Comcast, Dell, Marie Claire Magazine, Ebony Magazine, Essence Magazine, Bust Magazine, Numodemag, Philadelphia Magazine, Black Enterprise Magazine and many many more.
In September 2019, Sparkle opened Main Line Beauty Studio that will service the tri-state area. She will have one of the first private makeup salons on the Main Line in beautiful Ardmore Pennsylvania.
Richelle Payne
Managing Partner
Hurst & Leigh Communications Group
Branding Yourself in Social Media
Richelle Payne is managing partner at Hurst & Leigh Communications Group, a strategic communications and marketing firm based in Philadelphia, Pa., that partners with CEOs and change makers around the world to help them find and fix their brand challenges for greater impact.
She is an award-winning writer whose 30 years of experiences working as a journalist for a black-owned community newspaper, spokesperson and brand steward for an HBCU, college English instructor, and president of a national association for black PR professionals create an exciting mix of expertise crafting messages that inspire people and ignite business results.
She established her firm in 2010, and counsels presidents, CEOs, and division heads on strategies for managing business transformation, organizational change, and crises through brand strategy. In 2013, she expanded U.S. operations and works with strategic partners across offices in four states and global teams in the Netherlands, Canada, the UAE, and Cairo. Her client list includes entrepreneurs, executives, authors and activists such as Dondré T. Whitfield of OWN-TV’s critically-acclaimed scripted series “Queen Sugar,” retired San Francisco 49er Adam Walker, retired Philadelphia 76er John Salmons, retired Philadelphia Eagles Walter Thurmond III, bestselling author and megachurch leader Van Moody, Verizon, T.D. Jakes Enterprises, the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, and the Knight Foundation.
She graduated with a B.A. in English from Hampton University and the M.A. in Corporate Communication from Duquesne University. She earned the CCP (certified communications professional) designation from the AWC Matrix Foundation.
Managing Partner
Hurst & Leigh Communications Group
Branding Yourself in Social Media
Richelle Payne is managing partner at Hurst & Leigh Communications Group, a strategic communications and marketing firm based in Philadelphia, Pa., that partners with CEOs and change makers around the world to help them find and fix their brand challenges for greater impact.
She is an award-winning writer whose 30 years of experiences working as a journalist for a black-owned community newspaper, spokesperson and brand steward for an HBCU, college English instructor, and president of a national association for black PR professionals create an exciting mix of expertise crafting messages that inspire people and ignite business results.
She established her firm in 2010, and counsels presidents, CEOs, and division heads on strategies for managing business transformation, organizational change, and crises through brand strategy. In 2013, she expanded U.S. operations and works with strategic partners across offices in four states and global teams in the Netherlands, Canada, the UAE, and Cairo. Her client list includes entrepreneurs, executives, authors and activists such as Dondré T. Whitfield of OWN-TV’s critically-acclaimed scripted series “Queen Sugar,” retired San Francisco 49er Adam Walker, retired Philadelphia 76er John Salmons, retired Philadelphia Eagles Walter Thurmond III, bestselling author and megachurch leader Van Moody, Verizon, T.D. Jakes Enterprises, the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, and the Knight Foundation.
She graduated with a B.A. in English from Hampton University and the M.A. in Corporate Communication from Duquesne University. She earned the CCP (certified communications professional) designation from the AWC Matrix Foundation.
Kevon and Kamari Chisolm
Founders
Black Wallstreeter Consultation Services
The Black Wallstreeter: Financial Literacy for Middle Schoolers
Kevon and Kamari Chisolm, a father and son team, started Black Wallstreeter Consultation Services (BWCS) in 2018. On January 15, 2020, the father and son duo launched a separate entity, Junior Wallstreeters: Empowering Youth with Financial Literacy. Kim Chisolm, wife and mother, is the company’s operations manager.
BWCS's primary goals are to decrease the wealth gap between African Americans and whites. We focus on two areas to accomplish this goal: 1) helping others build wealth through investment clubs; and 2) empowering youth with financial wellness, which includes our financial literacy/investing curriculum and materials.
Like the company, the curriculum is titled: Junior WallStreeters: Empowering Youth with Financial Wellness. The curriculum teaches life-long financial awareness and discipline through 14 lessons with an emphasis on African American history and culture. In addition to topics like banking basics, budgeting and investing, our curriculum goes beyond others by exploring the community building wealth possible through investment clubs.
We also offer financial literacy products including: Junior Wallstreeter Budgeting Envelope System, Stock Tracker by Junior Wallstreeter and the Black Wall Street Board Game (no association with Black Wallstreeter). Currently, Junior Wallstreeters is providing financial literacy services via Zoom to 100 Black Men of Charlottesville, Virginia.
Founders
Black Wallstreeter Consultation Services
The Black Wallstreeter: Financial Literacy for Middle Schoolers
Kevon and Kamari Chisolm, a father and son team, started Black Wallstreeter Consultation Services (BWCS) in 2018. On January 15, 2020, the father and son duo launched a separate entity, Junior Wallstreeters: Empowering Youth with Financial Literacy. Kim Chisolm, wife and mother, is the company’s operations manager.
BWCS's primary goals are to decrease the wealth gap between African Americans and whites. We focus on two areas to accomplish this goal: 1) helping others build wealth through investment clubs; and 2) empowering youth with financial wellness, which includes our financial literacy/investing curriculum and materials.
Like the company, the curriculum is titled: Junior WallStreeters: Empowering Youth with Financial Wellness. The curriculum teaches life-long financial awareness and discipline through 14 lessons with an emphasis on African American history and culture. In addition to topics like banking basics, budgeting and investing, our curriculum goes beyond others by exploring the community building wealth possible through investment clubs.
We also offer financial literacy products including: Junior Wallstreeter Budgeting Envelope System, Stock Tracker by Junior Wallstreeter and the Black Wall Street Board Game (no association with Black Wallstreeter). Currently, Junior Wallstreeters is providing financial literacy services via Zoom to 100 Black Men of Charlottesville, Virginia.
Lemond Brown
Educator, Music Artist, and Philanthropist
Swaliga Foundation
Lamond Brown: STEaM the Block
Lemond Brown aka IMAG, who was born in Washington, D.C., continues to give consistently to those in need as an educator, music artist and philanthropist. After graduating with a BAS in Architectural Engineering from Drexel University in 2012, Lemond returned to Washington, D.C. and founded the Swaliga Foundation with the mission of inspiring young people to find their true passion.
Educator, Music Artist, and Philanthropist
Swaliga Foundation
Lamond Brown: STEaM the Block
Lemond Brown aka IMAG, who was born in Washington, D.C., continues to give consistently to those in need as an educator, music artist and philanthropist. After graduating with a BAS in Architectural Engineering from Drexel University in 2012, Lemond returned to Washington, D.C. and founded the Swaliga Foundation with the mission of inspiring young people to find their true passion.
Michael Conrath
Executive Director of Education Savings
J.P. Morgan Asset Management
Advancing Black Pathways with JPMorgan Chase & Co.: College Financial Planning
Michael Conrath, CFP®, CRPC, executive director, is Head of Education Savings of J.P. Morgan Asset Management. He is an advocate for educating families and their financial professionals on the importance of investing for college, and he leads the firm’s 529 plan strategy, product and distribution efforts across client relationships.
Michael offers over 20 years of investment industry experience, and he has appeared on television, radio and print media, including CNBC, Bloomberg TV, Fox News, PBS, The Wall Street Journal, Cheddar, Morningstar and Investment News. Prior to joining J.P. Morgan in 2011, Michael was wealth planning director at AllianceBernstein, where he spent more than a decade developing college savings, wealth transfer and retirement planning initiatives, and he previously held similar roles at Morgan Stanley and New York Life.
Michael has an MBA with dual concentration in Finance and Taxation from Fordham University, and a bachelor’s degree in English Literature and Rhetoric from Binghamton University. He is a Certified Financial Planner, Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor and holder of Series 7 and 63 licenses.
Executive Director of Education Savings
J.P. Morgan Asset Management
Advancing Black Pathways with JPMorgan Chase & Co.: College Financial Planning
Michael Conrath, CFP®, CRPC, executive director, is Head of Education Savings of J.P. Morgan Asset Management. He is an advocate for educating families and their financial professionals on the importance of investing for college, and he leads the firm’s 529 plan strategy, product and distribution efforts across client relationships.
Michael offers over 20 years of investment industry experience, and he has appeared on television, radio and print media, including CNBC, Bloomberg TV, Fox News, PBS, The Wall Street Journal, Cheddar, Morningstar and Investment News. Prior to joining J.P. Morgan in 2011, Michael was wealth planning director at AllianceBernstein, where he spent more than a decade developing college savings, wealth transfer and retirement planning initiatives, and he previously held similar roles at Morgan Stanley and New York Life.
Michael has an MBA with dual concentration in Finance and Taxation from Fordham University, and a bachelor’s degree in English Literature and Rhetoric from Binghamton University. He is a Certified Financial Planner, Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor and holder of Series 7 and 63 licenses.
Nicole Sanchez
Managing Director, Consumer Banking, Community and Business Development
J.P. Morgan Chase
Advancing Black Pathways with JPMorgan Chase & Co.: College Financial Planning
Nicole currently serves as a Managing Director, Consumer Banking, Community and Business Development. In her role, Nicole leads the Mass and Underbanked Segments and will be delivering on the Consumer Bank's efforts as part of JPMC's $30 Billion commitment to close the racial wealth gap.
Previously, Nicole served as General Manager of the Youth and Student Segments. In this role, her primary responsibilities include developing and driving Chase’s strategy to win the next generation of consumers. Specifically, she served as both the business owner and Head of Product for key youth and student products including Chase First Banking, Student Checking and Savings and partnered with card on the development and launch of the Chase Student Freedom card. Through Project Grammar, she leads a 100+ person cross-functional team across technology, digital, CB product, marketing, servicing, sales, legal, risk, compliance, and controls.
Previously, Nicole served as an Investment Partner at XFactor Ventures, a venture capital fund where she led fintech investments. She was named “One of the Most Powerful Women in NYC Tech.” She was also the Founder and CEO of JP Morgan Chase and Y Combinator backed fintech startup, Credit Hero. Nicole is a graduate of Harvard Business School, Harvard College and a Y Combinator Fellow. She has been featured in Forbes, TechCrunch, Axios, Pitchbook, and American Banker.
Managing Director, Consumer Banking, Community and Business Development
J.P. Morgan Chase
Advancing Black Pathways with JPMorgan Chase & Co.: College Financial Planning
Nicole currently serves as a Managing Director, Consumer Banking, Community and Business Development. In her role, Nicole leads the Mass and Underbanked Segments and will be delivering on the Consumer Bank's efforts as part of JPMC's $30 Billion commitment to close the racial wealth gap.
Previously, Nicole served as General Manager of the Youth and Student Segments. In this role, her primary responsibilities include developing and driving Chase’s strategy to win the next generation of consumers. Specifically, she served as both the business owner and Head of Product for key youth and student products including Chase First Banking, Student Checking and Savings and partnered with card on the development and launch of the Chase Student Freedom card. Through Project Grammar, she leads a 100+ person cross-functional team across technology, digital, CB product, marketing, servicing, sales, legal, risk, compliance, and controls.
Previously, Nicole served as an Investment Partner at XFactor Ventures, a venture capital fund where she led fintech investments. She was named “One of the Most Powerful Women in NYC Tech.” She was also the Founder and CEO of JP Morgan Chase and Y Combinator backed fintech startup, Credit Hero. Nicole is a graduate of Harvard Business School, Harvard College and a Y Combinator Fellow. She has been featured in Forbes, TechCrunch, Axios, Pitchbook, and American Banker.