18th National Role Models Conference Program

InnovationsDiversity Increasing for Success andinDiminishing Improving Diversity Disparities: and Lessons Decreasing Learned Disparities and the Agenda Ahead

HOWARD UNIVERSITY Howard University, one of the nation’s leading research universities, is dedicated to educating students from diverse backgrounds at the undergraduate, graduate and professional levels. Guided by our extraordinary cadre of faculty, students are immersed in cutting-edge scholarship and innovation, including nanotechnology, human genome research and atmospheric science, as well as the social sciences, arts and humanities on four campuses.

Since its inception more than 145 years ago, Howard University has been at the forefront of preparing globally competent students for positions of leadership and social responsibility.

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Minority Access, Inc.

18th National Role Models Conference

Minority Access, Inc. Minority Access, Inc., a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization, was incorporated in January 1995 to improve the higher educational, professional and managerial utilization of minorities. The organization assists individuals, academic institutions, federal and local governments, private agencies and corporations in diversifying their campuses and work sites by improving the recruitment, retention and enhancement of underserved populations. Headquartered in its fully owned historically-designated building in Hyattsville, Maryland, since 1998, Minority Access has gained a national reputation of successfully implementing programs to improve diversity and contribute to human development.

Minority Access’ success in effecting interaction and mutual exchange among individuals of diverse and underrepresented backgrounds and with institutions committed to diversity has not gone unnoticed by those similarly committed. By establishing a successful track record in implementing programs to improve diversity, Minority Access has: • •

• • • • • • • • •

Built a constituency of 170 colleges and universities, ranging from major research universities to small prestigious colleges, in the contiguous United States, Hawaii and Puerto Rico.

Placed well over 2,500 students of diverse academic backgrounds and cultural heritages into paid summer, fall and spring internships within agencies of the Federal Government through the Minority Access National Internship Program, the only non-profit sponsored internship program ranked among the top five in the nation for diversity in 2014 by BlackNews.com, following the NBA, NASCAR, Black Enterprise and NCAA. Identified high achieving students from underrepresented populations for scholarship, research, admission and college awareness programs for federal and local government agencies and private organizations.

Initiated research seminars and competitions to encourage college and university students from underrepresented populations to conduct research in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and medical and health disciplines.

Advanced initiatives of the federal agencies and higher education institutions to strengthen our nation by improving diversity.

Organized delegations of college and university administrators, faculty and students to study diversity issues in foreign countries, including China, India, Brazil and Trinidad and Tobago.

Conducted workshops throughout the United States on space exploration for nearly 5,000 science teachers to assist them in motivating young people from underrepresented populations to pursue science and research studies in college.

Sponsored camps for middle and high school students to encourage healthy lifestyles and developing risk management skills.

Served the Science and Technology Program Advisory Council of the Prince George’s County Public Schools.

Supported multicultural tourism and art and civic initiatives of the State of Maryland, Gateway Arts District of Prince George’s County and Hyattsville Community Development Corporation.

Received GSA Schedule Certification under Contract Number GS-02F-136AA as a preferred supplier under GSA Schedule 738-X.

Minority Access implemented the National Role Models Project, initially with support from the now National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, to identify and publicize minorities who are excelling in fields underrepresented by minority population groups in order to expand the pool of graduates and professionals from underrepresented populations. Since 2000, more than 500 faculty, students, administrators, alumni and renowned innovators worthy of emulation have been honored as role models at the National Role Models Conferences for their achievements. The National Role Models Project and the prestigious National Role Models Conference continue today in identifying, publicizing and honoring inspiring individuals in areas of science, research, medicine, technology, engineering and other fields and in recognizing colleges and universities that promote environments conducive to nurturing a diverse student body, faculty and staff.

www.minorityaccess.org

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Innovations for Success in Improving Diversity and Decreasing Disparities

Office of US Representative (Shadow) Franklin Garcia District of Columbia

Washington, D.C. 20004

September 19, 2017

Ms. Andrea D. Mickle President Minority Access Incorporated 5214 Baltimore Avenue Hyattsville, MD 20781

Greetings and Welcome to Washington, D.C!

I am delighted to welcome the participants of the Minority Access Inc. 18th National Role Models Conference which will take place from September 29‐ October 1, 2017 at the Marriott Marquis Hotel.

The nation’s capital is honored that Minority Access Inc. is hosting this important conference here. We consider it a privilege to provide an encouraging and positive outlook for your activities. The opportunity for the participants to meet, learn and share from each other is a valuable one, and we hope will be a positive and educational experience.

While you are here, I encourage you to explore all that our city offers, including universities, museums, monuments, and memorials such as the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial along the Tidal Basin. Participants may also enjoy our city’s outdoor cafés and restaurants in vibrant neighborhoods such as Adams Morgan and Chinatown, as well as sightseeing visits to the historical areas of Capitol Hill and Georgetown.

I thank the Minority Access Inc. family for selecting Washington, D.C. as its 2017 gathering point to host this year’s National Role Models Conference. I am certain your visit will be memorable, and I wish you the best for an enjoyable and successful conference. On behalf of the nearly 700,000 residents of our city, it is an honor to welcome you.

Very truly yours,

Franklin Garcia United States Representative (Shadow) District of Columbia

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Minority Access, Inc.

1350 Pennsylvania Avenue NW C-09, Washington, D.C. 20004 ◦ www.dc51.us ◦ 202-727-9110

18th National Role Models Conference

Welcome Message Andrea D. Mickle, President I am pleased to welcome you to the 18th National Role Models Conference.

Each year the conference takes on a special feature and this year is no exception.

We will convene an opening session that will reveal research and personal observations documenting the urgency of the need for understanding dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Its impact on families, financial resources and health care is causing an enormous strain on our society. A local key government official, respected researchers and representatives of private organizations will share with us their knowledge of and experience with the disease.

In keeping with our conference theme, Innovations for Success in Improving Diversity and Decreasing Disparities, we will discover innovations on the college campus and in corporations and private organizations leading to improved diversity and inclusiveness in education and the workplace. We will hear from a panel of distinguished college presidents with vast experience in higher education on the importance of leadership in creating environments that are welcoming and respectful of differences in their student body, faculty and staff. Role models who are executing their institutions’ strategies in fostering a diverse and inclusive campus will share their success stories. Corporations are being called on too to initiate innovations that will stimulate corporation boards, executives and outlay to be more reflective of the constituents who support them.

We hope to be enlightened on their progress.

This is now our tenth year in hosting the Student Researchers Competition. Minority Access will again present cash awards at the closing session to students to assist them in furthering their research aspirations. Each year this session is filled with excitement as the audience anticipates who will be the top award recipients.

Colleges and universities cited by Minority Access for their commitment to diversity for Year 2017 will receive plaques that can be proudly displayed at the institutions. The merits of engaging underrepresented populations in higher education and in STEM disciplines will be highlighted by our keynote speaker at the luncheon recognizing these institutions.

The impetus for the National Role Models Conference was to identify minority alumni, faculty and students who are excelling in fields underrepresented by them and to publicize and honor them and their supporters as role models to inspire emulation. A new cohort of role models will be honored with the designation of National Role Model at our elegant Awards Gala.

There is no better place to be in September than our Nation’s Capital. We thank you for joining us in the most powerful city of the world at one of the most inspiring conferences of its kind.

www.minorityaccess.org

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Innovations for Success in Improving Diversity and Decreasing Disparities 17th National Role Models Conference 16th National Role Models Conference

Saturday, October 1, 2016 Saturday, September 30, 2017 The Mayflower Hotel Marriott Marquis Hotel Washington, D.C.

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Minority Access, Inc.

www.minorityaccess.org www.minorityaccess.org

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18th National Role Models Conference

Program At-A-Glance All conference activities are at the Marriott Marquis except where indicated.

Friday, September 29, 2017 Registration

7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Mint Room

(M4 Level)

College and Career Showcase

9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

West Salons GHI Walter E. Washington Convention Center, 801 Mt. Vernon Place NW, Wash., DC 20001 (Direct access to the Convention Center from Marriott Marquis Hotel, M2 Level, via an underground concourse connector) Institutions, agencies and organizations exhibit their education and career opportunities to increase college-bound and postsecondary students’ awareness of diverse choices in higher education and professional career paths.

Undergraduate Student Researchers Seminars

12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Dupont Circle/Judiciary Square/Capitol Hill Rooms

(M3 Level)

Seasoned professionals offer sage advice to assist students in developing strategies to enhance their conference experience and for academic and career success in research disciplines.

Conference Opening and Special Forum

1:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Liberty Salons IJKL

(M4 Level)

Minority Access officially opens the 18th National Role Models Conference with welcome remarks and a special forum on dementia and Alzheimer’s disease featuring presentations on disease research, health information and caregiver concerns.

Reception

5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

University of DC Room

(M1 Level)

New and returning conference participants and guests gather in a lively setting to renew acquaintances, share experiences and form new alliances.

Live Entertainment by Will Magic

www.minorityaccess.org

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Innovations for Success in Improving Diversity and Decreasing Disparities

Program At-A-Glance (continued) All conference activities are at the Marriott Marquis except where indicated.

Saturday, September 30, 2017 Registration

7:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Breakfast Service

7:30 a.m. - 8: 30 a.m.

Plenary Sessions

8:00 a.m. - 12:10 p.m.

Mint Room Liberty Salons Foyer

(M4 Level) (M4 Level)

Liberty Salons IJKL

(M4 Level)

Liberty Salons IJKL

(M4 Level)

Interactive sessions highlight the success of public and private sector leaders and practitioners in employing innovative strategies to advance diversity and inclusiveness and decrease disparities.

Successful Innovations in Advancing High Academic Achievement for Students of Diverse Backgrounds 8:00 a.m. - 8:30 a.m.

Innovative Strategies to Promote Diversity and Inclusiveness on the College Campus: The Presidents’ Discussion on the Importance of Leadership in Creating Welcoming Environments for All Students 8:40 a.m. - 9:45 a.m.

Coffee Break

9:45 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

Undergraduate Student Researchers Seminars

10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Dupont Circle (M3 Level) Judiciary Square Capitol Hill Rooms Continuation of sessions designed for student researchers featuring seasoned researchers and other professionals to assist students in developing strategies for academic and career success in research disciplines.

Strategies in Practice for Advancing Diversity and Inclusiveness: Perspectives from the Private and Corporate Sectors 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

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Minority Access, Inc.

18th National Role Models Conference

Program At-A-Glance (continued) All conference activities are at the Marriott Marquis except where indicated.

Saturday, September 30, 2017 (continued) Innovative Strategies in Practice: Role Models in Action in Advancing Diversity on Campus and in STEM Education 11:10 a.m. - 12:10 p.m.

Luncheon in Recognition of Colleges and Universities Committed to Diversity 12:45 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Liberty Salons IJKL

(M4 Level)

The significant role of institutions in providing equal access to quality higher education for all students is recognized with award presentations to private and public colleges and universities cited by Minority Access for their commitment to diversity in 2017.

Book Signing

3:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Undergraduate Student Researchers Competitions

3:15 p.m. -6:00 p.m.

Dupont Circle Judiciary Square Capitol Hill Rooms

(M3 Level)

Undergraduate students from diverse colleges and universities will present their research in vying for cash awards to assist them in furthering their research aspirations. First, second and third prizes will be awarded to students who are judged to be among the top presenters in their categories. Recipients of the awards will be announced at the closing session of the conference.

Student Researchers Competitions Judges Role Model Awards Gala

7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

Liberty Ballroom

Minority Access will bestow the prestigious honor of National Role Model on exemplary administrators, alumni, faculty, recruiters and students at the elegant Role Models Awards Gala.

www.minorityaccess.org

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Innovations for Success in Improving Diversity and Decreasing Disparities

Program At-A-Glance (continued) All conference activities are at the Marriott Marquis except where indicated.

Sunday, October 1, 2017 Breakfast Buffet

8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Closing Session

8:45 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Liberty Salons IJKL

(M3 Level)

Liberty Salons IJKL

(M3 Level)

The 18th National Role Models Conference will officially close with the presentation of certificates to participating student researchers and the much awaited announcement of the top cash awards recipients.

Closing Remarks

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Minority Access, Inc.

diversity

18th National RoleAhead Models Conference Increasing Diversity and Diminishing Disparities: Lessons Learned and the Agenda

Increasing in the Physician Workforce

by Providing Opportunities and Access VCOM makes minority access a priority in its commitment to health and education.

VCOM students receive medical education in the classroom

and gain hands-on experience through clinical experiences.

VCOM students participate in service-based learning

internationally and through out the Appalachian region, providing patient-centered care. VCOM is committed to providing opportunities and access in medical education, in order to increase the diversity of the future physician workforce.

Blacksburg, Virginia • Spartanburg, South Carolina • Auburn, Alabama • www.vcom.edu

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www.minorityaccess.org

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©2014 Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine. All rights reserved. VCOM is certified by the State Council of Higher Education to operate in Virginia. Go to www.vcom.edu/outcomes for a copy of our Outcomes Report.

Minority Access, Inc.

Innovations for Success in Improving Diversity and Decreasing Disparities

PROGRAM SCHEDULE

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Minority Access, Inc.

18th National Role Models Conference

Program Schedule All conference activities are at the Marriott Marquis except where indicated.

Friday, September 29, 2017 Registration

7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Mint Room

(M4 Level)

College and Career Showcase

9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

West Salons GHI Walter E. Washington Convention Center, 801 Mt. Vernon Place NW, Washington, DC 20001 (Direct access to the Convention Center from Marriott Marquis Hotel, M2 Level, via an underground concourse connector) Institutions, agencies and organizations exhibit their education and career opportunities to increase college-bound and postsecondary students’ awareness of diverse choices in higher education and professional career paths.

Speakers:

Mr. Leigh Allen

Vice President for Marketing and Development CLEO, Inc.

Dr. Jorge G. Muniz Lieutenant Commander

U. S. Public Health Service

Undergraduate Student Researchers Seminars

12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

DuPont Circle Judiciary Square Capitol Hill Rooms

(M3 Level)

Seasoned professionals offer sage advice to assist students in developing strategies to enhance their conference experience and for academic and career success in research disciplines.

Conversational Tactics: “Utilizing Effective Communication Skills for Positive Engagement” Speaker:

Dr. Ladel Lewis Senior Research Strategist Meaningful Evidence, LLC

www.minorityaccess.org

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Innovations for Success in Improving Diversity and Decreasing Disparities

2017 Student Researchers Jaquesta Adams

Anna Figueroa

Aleah Bailey

Isabel Forlastro

Marilyn Barragan

Ashley Gayle

Leo Clashin Bia

Leiana-Mejoi Griffith

Ariel Blakey

Whitney Griffith

Chioma Bush

Rukia Henry

Nicolas Campbell

Salman Hoque

Ashley Cannon

Hiram Iniguez

Wai-Kit Chia

Cleveland Ivey

Alexander Stephen Cruz

Wallette Jenerette

Emanuel Demissie

Maya Jones

Jellisa Ewan

Zipporah King-Proctor

Hassan-Galaydh Farah

Sonia Lopez

Cecilia Fernandez

Devon Manuele

Howard University Rutgers University University of Kansas WASEO LSAMP Spelman College Howard University WASEO LSAMP

Howard University Rutgers University University of Connecticut Howard University Claflin University WASEO LSAMP WASEO LSAMP

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Minority Access, Inc.

WASEO LSAMP

University of Arizona Lane College

Spelman College

Howard University Howard University Rutgers University WASEO LSAMP

Fort Valley State University University of South Carolina, Columbia Spelman College University of South Carolina, Columbia WAESO LSAMP University of Wisconsin-Stout

18th National Role Models Conference

2017 Student Researchers Tina Monzavi

Nia Sweatt

Paris Pruitt

Xavia Taylor

Mikaela Rhoiney

Gabrielle van Genderen

Daisy Rodriguez

Erica Vanover

Martial Sawasawa

Bryan Walker

Jonathan Smith

Aggie Williams

University of South Carolina, Columbia University of Connecticut California State University San Marcos WAESO LSAMP

University of Connecticut University of South Carolina, Columbia

Howard University Fort Valley State University Fort Valley State University The University of Arizona WAESO LSAMP Eastern Kentucky University

Beatriz Smith

WAESO LSAMP

www.minorityaccess.org

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Innovations for Success in Improving Diversity and Decreasing Disparities

Program Schedule (continued) All conference activities are at the Marriott Marquis except where indicated.

Friday, September 29, 2017 Conference Opening and Special Forum

1:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Liberty Salons IJKL

(M4 Level)

Minority Access officially opens the 18th National Role Models Conference with welcome remarks and a special forum on dementia and Alzheimer’s disease featuring presentations on disease research, health information and caregiver concerns.

Welcome:

Ms. Andrea D. Mickle President Minority Access, Inc.

Opening Remarks: The Honorable Rushern Baker, III

County Executive

Prince George’s County, Maryland

Racial Disparities in Dementia & Alzheimer’s Disease: Understanding a Rising Epidemic Moderator:

Dr. Stephanie Johnson

Clinical Neuropsychologist and Chief Executive Officer Cognitive Solutions, LLC.

Presenters:

Dr. Shelytia CoCroft Postdoctoral Scholar

Joseph and Kathleen Bryan Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center

Duke University Center for Aging and Human Development Dr. Cerise Elliott

Senior Scientific Program Analyst

National Institute on Aging

National Institutes of Health Mr. Tim McNeil

Independent Health Care Consultant and Navy Veteran Ms. Diane Vance

Programs and Service Manager National Capitol Area Alzheimer’s Association

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Minority Access, Inc.

18th National Role Models Conference

Program Schedule (continued) All conference activities are at the Marriott Marquis except where indicated.

Friday, September 29, 2017 Reception

5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

University of the District of Columbia Room

(M1 Level)

New and returning conference participants and guests gather in a lively setting to renew acquaintances, share experiences and form new alliances.

Live Entertainment by Will Magic

www.minorityaccess.org

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Innovations for Success in Improving Diversity and Decreasing Disparities

Program Schedule (continued) All conference activities are at the Marriott Marquis except where indicated.

Saturday September 30, 2017 Registration

7:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Breakfast Service

7:30 a.m. - 8: 30 a.m.

Plenary Sessions

8:00 a.m. - 12:10 p.m.

Mint Room Liberty Salons Foyer

(M4 Level) (M4 Level)

Liberty Salons IJKL

(M4 Level)

Liberty Salons IJKL

(M4 Level)

Interactive sessions highlight the success of public and private sector leaders and practitioners in employing innovative strategies to advance diversity and inclusiveness and decrease disparities.

Successful Innovations in Advancing High Academic Achievement for Students of Diverse Backgrounds 8:00 a.m. - 8:30 a.m.

Greetings and Introduction:

Dr. Louis Dale Professor Emeritus and

Former Vice President of Diversity, Inclusion and Equity University of Alabama at Birmingham 2001 National Role Model Award Recipient

Speaker: Dr. Wil Del Pilar

Vice President The Education Trust

Innovative Strategies to Promote Diversity and Inclusiveness on the College Campus: The Presidents’ Discussion on the Importance of Leadership in Creating Welcoming Environments for All Students 8:40 a.m. - 9:40 a.m.

Moderator: Mr. Tony Harris

Journalist, Filmmaker and TV Host, Discovery ID

Speakers: Dr. Stephen Combs

President Maryland University of Integrative Health

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Minority Access, Inc.

18th National Role Models Conference

Program Schedule (continued) All conference activities are at the Marriott Marquis except where indicated.

Saturday, September 30, 2017 Speakers:

Dr. Charlene Dukes President

Prince George’s Community College

2016 National Role Model Award Recipient

Dr. James E. Lyons

Interim President, Concordia College

Former President, California State University Dominquez Hills,

Jackson State Univesity, Bowie State University

Former Interim President, University of the District of Columbia and Dillard University

2006 National Role Model Award Recipient

Dr. Kim E. Schatzel President Towson University

Coffee Break

9:45 a.m. - 9:55 a.m.

Undergraduate Student Researchers Seminars

10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

DuPont Circle Judiciary Square Capitol Hill Rooms

(M3 Level)

Innovations in Expanding Research and Professional Opportunities in Health and Education Speakers:

Dr. Abigail Alyepola Associate Dean

School of Naturopathic Medicine

Maryland University of Integrative Health Dr. Meridith Davis

Associate Dean of Students Rhodes College

www.minorityaccess.org

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Innovations for Success in Improving Diversity and Decreasing Disparities

Program Schedule (continued) All conference activities are at the Marriott Marquis except where indicated.

Saturday, September 30, 2017 Strategies in Practice for Advancing Diversity and Inclusiveness: Perspectives from the Private and Corporate Sectors 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Moderator:

Mrs. Denise Rolark-Barnes Publisher The Washington Informer

Presenters:

Mr. Earl R. Brown

Manager for National Partners Relations and Agreements American Red Cross Ms. Beverley Madden

Market Human Resource Manager Walmart Corporation Ms. Deborah Owens Founder and CEO Corporate Alley Cat Ms. Cheryl Wade

Head of Diversity and Inclusion Booz Allen Hamilton

Innovative Strategies in Practice: Role Models in Action in Advancing Diversity on Campus and STEM Education 11:10 a.m. - 12:10 p.m.

Co-Moderators:

Dr. Paulette Patterson Dilworth Vice President for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion University of Alabama at Birmingham 2016 National Role Model Award Recipient

Mrs. Ernestine Baker Former Executive Director Meyerhoff Scholar Program

University of Maryland, Baltimore County

2006 National Role Model Award Recipient

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Minority Access, Inc.

18th National Role Models Conference

Program Schedule (continued) All conference activities are at the Marriott Marquis except where indicated.

Saturday, September 30, 2017 Panelists:

The Reverend Kathleen Buckley Chaplain St. Lawrence University

2017 National Role Model Honoree Dr. Charlene Crawley Assistant Professor Virginia Commonwealth University

2017 National Role Model Honoree

Mr. William King

Vice President for Student Services

Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine 2015 Role Model Award Recipient

Dr. Michael Smith Professor

The University of Tennessee - Knoxville

2017 National Role Model Honoree

Dr. Melanie Van Stry Assistant Professor Lane College

2017 National Role Model Honoree

www.minorityaccess.org

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Innovations for Success in Improving Diversity and Decreasing Disparities

Program Schedule (continued) All conference activities are at the Marriott Marquis except where indicated.

Saturday, September 30, 2017 Luncheon in Recognition of Colleges and Universities Committed to Diversity 12:45 p.m.—3:00 p.m.

Liberty and Salon IJKL

(M4Level)

The significant role of institutions in providing equal access to quality higher education for all students is recognized with award presentations to private and public colleges and universities cited by Minority Access for their commitment to diversity in 2017.

Master of Ceremonies:

Dr. Wilmer J. Leon, III Author and Nationally

Broadcast Talk Show Host

Greetings:

Mr. Ben-James Brown

Regional Banking District Manager

Atlantic Region- Vice President Wells Fargo

Speaker:

Ms. Edie Fraser Chairman and Founder

STEMconnect and Million Women Mentors

Remarks on Behalf of Institutions Following Presentations:

Dr. Andrea Guzman Oliver

Associate Vice President for Student Affairs Florida Atlantic University

2017 National Role Model Honoree

Presentation of Awards to Colleges and Universities Committed to Diversity for Year 2017 AUBURN UNIVERSITY Auburn, Alabama BABSON COLLEGE Wellesley, Massachusetts BELMONT UNIVERSITY Nashville, Tennessee CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY NORTHRIDGE Los Angeles, California

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Minority Access, Inc.

CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY SAN MARCOS San Marcos, California CUYAHOGA COMMUNITY COLLEGE Cleveland, Ohio EASTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY Richmond, Kentucky EDWARD via COLLEGE OF OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE Blacksburg, Virginia

18th National Role Models Conference

Program Schedule (continued) All conference activities are at the Marriott Marquis except where indicated.

Saturday, September 30, 2017 Presentation of Awards to Colleges and Universities Committed to Diversity for Year 2017 (continued) FLORIDA ATLANTIC UNIVERSITY Boca Rotan, Florida

ST. PETER’S UNIVERSITY Jersey City, New Jersey

HAMILTON COLLEGE Clinton, New York

STILLMAN UNIVERSITY Tuscaloosa, Alabama

HOWARD UNIVERSITY Washington, DC

THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM Birmingham, Alabama

JACKSON STATE UNIVERSITY Jackson, Alabama LIVINGSTONE COLLEGE Salisbury, North Carolina

THE UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL ARKANSAS Conway, Arkansas

LYNCHBURG COLLEGE Lynchburg, Virginia

THE UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND BALTIMORE COUNTY Baltimore, Maryland

MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY Sparkville, Mississippi

THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH ALABAMA Florence, Alabama

MORGAN STATE UNIVERSITY Baltimore, Maryland

NEWBERRY COLLEGE Newberry, South Carolina

THE UNIVERSITY OF PHOENIX Tempe, Arizona

OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY Stillwater, Oklahoma ROCHESTER INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY Rochester, New York

THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT ARLINGTON Arlington, Texas UTAH VALLEY UNIVERSITY Oren, Utah TIFFIN UNIVERSITY Tiffin, Ohio

SETON HALL UNIVERSITY South Orange, New Jersey

VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY Richmond, Virginia

ST. LAWRENCE UNIVERSITY Canton, New Jersey

WESTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY Kalamazoo, Michigan

www.minorityaccess.org

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Innovations for Success in Improving Diversity and Decreasing Disparities

Program Schedule (continued) All conference activities are at the Marriott Marquis except where indicated.

Saturday, September 30, 2017 Book Signing

3:00 p.m.—3:30 p.m.

Dr. Wilmer Leon will personally sign copies of his book, Politics: Another Perspective, which includes Commentary and Analysis on War, Ethics and the American Political Landscape in the Age of Obama.

Undergraduate Student Researchers Competitions

3:15 p.m.—6:00 p.m. DuPont Circle (M3 Level) Judiciary Square Capitol Hill Rooms Undergraduate students from diverse college and universities will present their research in vying for cash awards to assist them in furthering their research aspirations. First, second and third place prizes will be awarded to student who are judged to be among the top presenters in their categories. Recipients of the awards will be announced at the closing session of the conference.

Student Researchers Competition Judges:

Dr. Ibrahim Bori-US Patents and Trademarks

Dr. Teneane Bradford-US Department of Justice Dr. Candace Brown-Duke University Dr. Robin Kelly Dr. Richard Moerschell-US Patents and Trademark Office

Dr. Reginald Vance-US Department of Veteran Affairs

Dr. Candace Williams- C’SPAWJ Professional Services LLC

Role Model Awards Gala

7:00 p.m.—9:30 p.m.

Liberty Ballroom

(M4 Level)

Minority Access will bestow the prestigious honor of National Role Model on exemplary administrators, alumni, faculty, recruiters and students at the elegant Role Models Award Gala.

Masters of Ceremonies:

Mr. Keith Alexander Feature Writer The Washington Post

Greetings:

Ms. Andrea D. Mickle President Minority Access, Inc.

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Minority Access, Inc.

18th National Role Models Conference

2017 NATIONAL ROLE MODELS Raymond B. Allen, M.A. Seton Hall University Derek D. Bardell, M. A. Delgado Community College The Reverend Kathleen Buckley, M.Div. St. Lawrence College Katrina M. Caldwell, Ph.D. University of Mississippi Robin R. Means Coleman, Ph.D. University of Michigan Charlene Crawley, Ph.D. Virginia Commonwealth University Tabitha A. Enoch, M.A. University of Virginia Neval Ertuk, Ph.D. Converse College Rosianna R. Gray, Ph.D. University of Alabama Gabrielle Van Genderen, Student Fort Valley State University William E. Hart, Ph.D. University of Tennessee Mijitaba Hamissou, Ph.D. Jackson State University Keri Hesson, M.S. Auburn University Cleveland Ivey, Student Fort Valley State University Jerri Marr, B.S. Converse College Justin J. Mathis, M.Ed. Kentucky State University Lyna Nyamwaya, B.S. Metropolitan State University

www.minorityaccess.org

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Innovations for Success in Improving Diversity and Decreasing Disparities

2017 NATIONAL ROLE MODELS (continued) Andrea Guzman Oliver Florida Atlantic University Raymond Richards, M.S. Seton Hall University Allen A. Robinson Morgan State University Michelle Robinson, MD University of Alabama at Birmingham Sarah Rose, Ph.D. University of Texas at Arlington Shayla Sawyer, Ph.D. Renesselaer Polytechnic Institute Raji Sethuraju, Ph.D. Metropolitan University Aaron M. Smith, M.A. Lynchburg College Michael Smith, Ph.D. University of Tennessee Gabriela L. Stein, Ph.D. University of North Carolina Greensboro Melanie Van Stry, Ph.D. Lane College Xavia Taylor, Student Fort Valley State University Susan West, Ed.D. Belmont University Benjamin Williams, Ph.D. Ron Brown College Preparatory High School Lakiesha Williams, Ph.D. Mississippi State University Johnny Young, Ed.D Old Dominion University

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Program Schedule (continued) All conference activities are at the Marriott Marquis except where indicated.

Sunday, October 1, 2017 Breakfast Buffet

8:00 a.m.—9:00

Closing Session

8:45 a.m.—11:00 a.m.

Liberty Salons IJKL

(M3 Level)

Liberty Salons IJKL

(M3Level)

The 18th National Role Models Conference will officially close with the presentation of certificates to participating student researchers and the much awaited announcement of the top cash awards recipients.

Greetings:

Dr. Wilma J. Roscoe

Member, Board of Directors Minority Access, Inc. Dr. Clarence Lee

Executive Director, Washington-Baltimore-Hampton Roads (WBHR)

Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation

Chair, Department of Biology, Howard University

2005 Role Model Award Recipient Dr. Albert McHenry

Co-Director, Western Alliance to Expand Student Oppurtunites (WAESO)

Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation Arizona State University

Presentation of Certificates to Research Mentors Presentation of Certificates of Achievement to Student Researchers Presentation of Cash Awards to Student Researchers Closing Remarks: Ms. Andrea D. Mickle

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Innovations for Success in Improving Diversity and Decreasing Disparities

www.morgan.edu

MOVE YOUR CAREER ACROSS THE GOAL LINE TO A SUCCESSFUL FUTURE! Looking for a university that produces successful, well-paid graduates?

The College Database says, consider Morgan State University!

Morgan is very proud of being among DiversityComm’s top 25 colleges and universities for African Americans, Hispanics and Women for the past four years. The University is also included on Forbes Magazine’s list of Top Colleges in America, which is based on data compiled by the Center for College Affordability and Productivity. Add to that Morgan’s recognition by The College Database for providing “high quality education at an affordable price,” and you have a fairly complete picture of the value of a degree from Morgan State University.

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College of Liberal Arts School of Architecture and Planning Earl G. Graves School of Business and Management School of Community Health and Policy School of Computer, Mathematical and Natural Sciences School of Education and Urban Studies Clarence M. Mitchell, Jr., School of Engineering School of Global Journalism and Communication School of Graduate Studies School of Social Work

18th National Role Models Conference

SPEAKERS, PANELISTS, MODERATORS AND OTHER CONFERENCE PARTICIPANTS

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Innovations for Success in Improving Diversity and Decreasing Disparities

Mr. Leigh Allen II Since 2006, Leigh Allen II, has been working with the Council on Legal Education Opportunity (CLEO), Inc., most recently as the organization’s Vice President of Marketing and Development. Established in 1968, CLEO’s mission is to help increase the number of diverse and traditionally underrepresented persons who matriculate to law school and enter the legal profession.

An accomplished organizational strategist, Mr. Allen has more than 19 years of experience in a variety of supervisory and managerial capacities in the private, public and non-profit sectors.

Prior to his decade-plus with CLEO, he served as the Director of Business Development and Senior Project Manager for a Washington, DC-based federal contractor. He also spent time as a Senior Contract Specialist for two for-profit organizations in DC, Maryland, and Virginia.

Mr. Allen earned a Master of Business Administration degree from The Johns Hopkins University – Carey Business School and a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership degree from Nyack College in upstate New York. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Morehouse College, the allmale HBCU in Atlanta, GA. At present, he is concluding a dual-degree Master of Science in Information Technology (Information Assurance) and Master of Science in Cybersecurity Policy degree from the University of Maryland University College in Adelphi, MD. Over the years, Mr. Allen has received several scholarship and academic awards, in addition to receiving various recognition related to his professional accomplishments/standing. He has also been privileged to speak to numerous groups and functions on topics related to diversity and/or education. Mr. Allen is a longtime and proud fraternity member of Alpha Phi Alpha, Inc. and currently resides with his wife and children in Waldorf, MD.

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Dr. Abigail Alyepola Dr. Abigail completed her undergraduate studies at University of Maryland, Baltimore County, where she earned both a bachelor of science and a bachelor of arts in Interdisciplinary Studies Pre-Med and Africana Studies, respectively.

Her eclectic approach to her undergraduate education laid the foundation for her matriculation at Bastyr University and her success in completing both the naturopathic medical and midwifery programs.

Upon graduation from medical school, Dr. Abigail went on to complete her first year of residency in primary care at the Bastyr Center for Natural Health, and 18 additional months of integrative women’s health residency training under the supervision of Dr. Tori Hudson.

Her training as a naturopathic physician and midwife provides a unique insight and sensitivity to the areas of women’s health in which she specializes: preconception, fertility, and perinatal care.

Dr. Abigail is the owner and founder of Omolayo Integrative Medicine in Seattle, WA.

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Innovations for Success in Improving Diversity and Decreasing Disparities

Mrs. Earnestine Baker Earnestine Baker, known affectionately to her colleagues as “Ernie,” was first hired as UMBC’s Coordinator for Minority Recruitment in 1983. In 1992, she became the first Program Director of the Meyerhoff Scholars Program, and was promoted to Assistant to the Vice President of Institutional Advancement and Executive Director of the Meyerhoff Scholars Program in 2002.

Under her direction, the Meyerhoff program became an integral part of campus life and culture, and achieved a sterling reputation for preparing minority students for graduate and professional programs in the sciences, mathematics, and engineering.

Mrs. Baker presented the program as one of the blue ribbon reports to Congress in 2003, and in 2009, the program was recognized by Science, the nation’s leading journal of scientific research, news, and commentary, for having “what it takes” to help more minority students earn science degrees.

Since its inception in 1993, the Meyerhoff program has graduated over 1,200 students, and counts 231 Ph.D. graduates, including 45 M.D./Ph.D.s, among its alumni. Mrs. Baker was instrumental in increasing its cachet among institutions of higher learning, and has represented UMBC on both the national and international stages, from participating at the 2012 College Completion Symposium with then-U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan, to accompanying a delegation of University Members to Beijing, China, Cape Town, South Africa, Seville, Spain, and Bali, Indonesia.

Mrs. Baker is remembered by those who worked for and with her for her steely resolve in the face of challenges, especially in the early days of the program, and for the values she instilled in her students and staff. In many instances, the connections Mrs. Baker forged with her students stayed intact long after they left UMBC, as she continued to offer them guidance and network on their behalf as they pursued graduate study.

In 2008, she received the University System of Maryland Board of Regents’ Award for Extraordinary Public Service to the University or the Greater Community for her dedication to the Meyerhoff Scholars Program and the students it served. Since her retirement in 2013, Mrs. Baker has continued to serve on several STEM advisory boards, and is currently serving as a contractual worker at UMBC.

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The Honorable Rushern Baker, III Rushern L. Baker, III is the seventh County Executive of Prince George’s County, the highest income African-American majority county in America and the second largest jurisdiction by population in the State of Maryland.

Since his election in November of 2010, Mr. Baker has worked closely with other state and regional leaders to pursue positive change, focusing on creating jobs, growing the economy, and improving public safety and education in the county.

Since taking office, Mr. Baker has raised the profile of Prince George’s County in the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan region, implementing innovative programs designed to improve the quality of life for residents. Mr. Baker established The Economic Development Incentive Fund (EDIF), an unprecedented $50 million fund designed to stimulate business growth in the county. He is also addressing healthcare disparities through his leadership and advocacy for a new worldclass Regional Medical Center in Prince George’s County that will transform health care in the region.

Mr. Baker introduced the Transforming Neighborhoods Initiative (TNI) in 2012 in order to uplift economically challenged neighborhoods in Prince George’s County. TNI is an innovative approach to government service delivery. Mr. Baker is very focused on improving education and public safety in the county. For the last 2 years he has ensured that schools and the county’s public safety agencies receive adequate funding and resources. The result has been rising test scores and significant reductions in overall crime.

Mr. Baker has also made significant reforms to ensure openness, transparency, and accountability in government. Under his leadership, the county recently launched CountyClick 3-1-1. Residents now have increased access to the government online or via a county call center. He also introduced CountyStat, a program used to measure and monitor government operations in order to improve service delivery by county agencies.Mr. Baker has received many awards and honors including the National Forum for Black Public Administrators’ National Leadership Award for Public Service and 2012 Most Innovative Executive of the Year for Minority Business from the Maryland/Washington Minority Contractors Association.

Mr. Baker started his political career in the Maryland House of Delegates representing District 22-B from 1994 - 2003. During that time, he served on numerous committees and was Chair of the Prince George’s County Delegation from 1999 to 2003. In addition to his success in politics, Mr. Baker-an accomplished lawyer- has served as the legal counsel to a nonprofit community development and social services organization and as the executive director of an education reform nonprofit. From 1987 to 2001, Baker was also a member of the U.S. Army Reserve Judge Advocate General Corps.

Mr. Baker graduated from Howard University with a Juris Doctorate in 1986 and is a member of the Howard University Alumni Association, and the Maryland Chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. www.minorityaccess.org

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Innovations for Success in Improving Diversity and Decreasing Disparities

Mr. Ben-James Brown Ben-James Brown, a native of Los Angeles California, started his career at Wells Fargo in 2001. While attending San Jose State University, Brown worked part-time as a Customer Service Representative and since that time, he has held a number of leadership positions throughout his 15 years with the company in Northern/ Southern California, Las Vegas, Nevada, Northern Virginia and Washington D.C. Ben-James serves as Regional Banking District Manager for Wells Fargo Bank in the District of Columbia, a position he has held since 1st quarter 2013.

In this role, he manages 12storesand over 100 team members. In 2013, stores and over 100 team members, Ben-James Brown was ranked 6th of 644 Districts enterprise wide for performance. Brown over sees territories in the District and Maryland Markets, Leading 36 stories with more than 450 million in deposits and 68 million loans. Brown holds his Bachelors of Science degree in Business Management. Ben-James also holds the set of Treasure and Board Member for the Young Playwrights Theater in Washington, DC. He is also the Committee Chair for Economic Development for 100 Black Men of GWDC. Ben-BenBen-James has opened 4 new locations in 2013/2014 and has piloted a new concept of banking for the Enterprise called Neighborhood Stores. Regional Banking District Manager for the DC North District is responsible for the effective management of multiple Wells Fargo locations with one line of business that provides products and services to a designated marketplace while meeting the profitability goals and Objectives of Wells Fargo Bank.

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2011. As President, Dr. Thomas leads an institution that serves approximately 12,000 students through its traditional, residential four-year campus in Macomb Illinois, and its metropolitan campus in the Quad Cities/Moline, Illinois. WIU 18th National Role Models Conference offers 66 undergraduate degree programs and 37 graduate degree programs, Summoning Our Strengths Mr. Earl R. Brown has over 700 faculty members, and has an annual budget of over $220 million.

Under his leadership, Western Illinois University continues to be ranked as a Dr. Willie Jackson “Best Midwestern College” and as a “Best Regional University” by The Princeton Principal Mr. Earl Brown is Manager, National Partner Relations & Western Agreements Review and U.S. News and School World Report, respectively.

Illinois Architecture, Construction and Engineering High with Disaster Partnerships at the American Red Cross. In this role he has University also continues to be named a “Military Friendly School” by GI Jobs responsibility for managing the Red Construction Cross relationship andHigh agreements with Dr. Willie Jackson is principal of Phelps Architecture, and Engineering Magazine.

School, first public high school in the country to offer both college preparatory and career its the nongovernment partners. education.

Prior to being named principal, Dr. Jackson the administrator at Phelps charge During Dr. Thomas’ tenure, numerous programs and initiatives havewas been established andin improved, including of implementing programs to prepare students for college and future careers and had held a Prior to joining the Red Cross, Earl worked for two Fortune 500 Companies ncreased partnerships with international embassies, additional scholarship funding, the number of highuniversities level positions in and the Washington, D.C. public school system.

He has mentored (Procter & Gamble and the Xerox Corporation) for over 36 years. over and 2,500 students and young adults and has implemented partnerships with local aUpon Western Commitment Scholarship the Centennial Honors College numerous Scholarship programs, mentoring retirement he began volunteering with theleaders.

Red Cross and was later hired as businesses and community leaders to build and shape student program designed to improve retention, andstaff. an enhanced honors college. Dr. Thomas earned a Bachelor of Arts full time Dr. Jackson is a native Washingtonian.

He attended Cheyney University of Pennsylvania, and received undergraduate n English from Alabama &M University, MasterHeofis aEnglish Education from Virginia State University, and a and graduate A degrees from George Mason a University. lifetime member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.

Mr. Brown earned a masters degree in and Industrial from at WIU, Ph.D. in English (Literature and Criticism) from Indiana University ofLabor Pennsylvania.

PriorRelations to his tenure the University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana, Illinois Bachelor of Arts State Dr. Thomas served as Senior Vice Provost for Academic Affairs and Interim Dean at and Middle Tennessee degrees in Psychology and Economics from Benedict College in Columbia, University and served in various capacities at other universities. Dr. Thomas is a member of the Illinois Board of S.C. A member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Mr. Brown has received numerous awards and recognitions Higher for Education.

He haswork. also served as an American Council on Education Fellow, a graduate of the Harvard his community Leadership Program and the Leadership Middle Tennessee Program, a Kellogg-NAFEO Fellow, and participated n the Salzburg Seminar in Salzburg, Austria.

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THIS IS OUR CORNERSTONE. Diversity is a core value at Auburn University.

The Office of Diversity and Multicultural Affairs strives to offer a comprehensive range of exemplary educational programs that foster and sustain an environment that promotes academic excellence, respects differences, and accepts inclusiveness.

Auburn University, a public land-grant institution established in 1856, has developed into one of the largest universities in the South. Recognized nationally for its academic and research excellence, the university offers more than 140 degree options in 12 schools and colleges at the undergraduate, graduate, and professional levels.

THIS IS AUBURN.

auburn.edu/diversity

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Innovations for Success in Improving Diversity and Decreasing Disparities

The Reverend Kathleen Buckley Kathleen Buckley has served as University Chaplain at St. Lawrence University in Canton, New York, since 2001. Ordained as Minister of Word and Sacrament in the Presbyterian Church in 1986, Reverend Buckley is also a member of the United Church of Christ [Congregationalists].

Reverend Buckley teaches workshops at St. Lawrence University on practical communication skills and speaks regularly to community groups and congregations on issues related to theology and sexuality.

As University Chaplain at St. Lawrence, she seeks to minister to students, faculty and staff in a broad based spiritual framework focusing on 3 primary goals: inviting inquiry, fostering wholeness and teaching respect for all life.

Reverend Buckley administers the New York State Department of Health AIDS Institute SAFE Grant for St. Lawrence University, which provides training, resources, and support to promote a healthier, safer, and more welcoming environment for LGBTQ individuals and groups, both on and off campus.

She received her Master of Divinity from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in 1981. Subsequent to seminary she completed a Chaplain Residency at Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge, Illinois. When she came to the Capital District in 1986, she accepted a call to be Pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of Watervliet where she served until 1993.

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Dr. Shelytia CoCroft Dr. Cocroft is a Postdoctoral Scholar at Duke University’s Center for Aging and Human Development. She is a health disparities and minority aging researcher and her current research explores the intersections of knowledge about Alzheimer’s disease; willingness of older African Americans to participate in clinical research, and the impact of socioeconomic status on these mechanisms.

She is a former Michigan Center for Urban African American Aging (MCUAAAR) Diversity Scholar and her dissertation research, which explored the relationship between socioeconomic status and knowledge, attitudes, and practices associated with maintaining cognitive health among older African American women in Detroit, was supported by a grant from the National Institutes of Health and the University of Michigan. Dr. Cocroft holds a M.A. in Sociology from DePaul University and a B.A. in Education from the University of Illinois at Chicago.

Dr. Cocroft is a former Graduate Teaching Assistant in the Department of Sociology at Wayne State University. She was also the Resident Sociologist at Malcolm X College where she taught undergraduate sociology courses to include Introduction of the Social Sciences, Introduction to Sociology, and Marriage and Family. She also has extensive teaching experience with Chicago Public Schools.

Her professional affiliations include the American Sociological Association, the North Central Sociological Association, and the Gerontological Society of America. She is also a member of the Alpha Kappa Delta Honor Society, Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society, Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, and Golden Key National Honor Society.

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Innovations for Success in Improving Diversity and Decreasing Disparities

Dr. Stephen Combs Steven Combs, Ph.D., has been appointed President and Chief Executive Officer for Maryland University of Integrative Health (MUIH), announced Adele Wilzack, chair of MUIH’s Board of Trustees today.

“Dr. Combs has devoted the majority of his professional life to the field of higher education, with more than 18 years in leadership positions. He has been a lifelong learner, faculty member, researcher, academic administrator, published author, and scholarly presenter.

During Dr. Combs’ exemplary career, his demonstrated successes and chosen priorities have been beautifully aligned with the strategic imperatives for MUIH and will serve us well in the coming years.” said Wilzack. Wilzack said Dr. Combs is the right person arriving at just the right time for MUIH. “He has the strength and conviction to be the leader who will move MUIH closer toward our mission and vision. He has the ability, energy, and commitment to help us to reach our potential and become an increasingly vibrant and prominent University. His intelligence and passion, combined with our support and encouragement, will allow him to quickly learn about and become a true advocate for our University and our fields,” said Wilzack.

Dr. Combs most recently served as Executive Vice President and Provost of Drury University in Springfield, MO, and previously served in leadership positions at Edinboro University of Pennsylvania and Hawaii Pacific University. In these roles, he has seen success in launching academic programs, enhancing the student experience, expanding alumni relations, leveraging strategic partnerships, and implementing capital campaigns. He has led change with grace and integrity while strategically planning for a preferred future.

Before becoming an academic administrator, Dr. Combs had a distinguished career as a faculty member, teaching in communication studies. He holds a Ph.D. in Communication Arts and Sciences from the University of Southern California, with an emphasis on rhetoric and public address. He completed his M.A. in Communication Studies at the University of Kansas, and his B.A. at the University of Southern California. He has presented his scholarly work on three continents, and has been published in many top, peer-reviewed journals.

His published works include Useless-/Usefulness of Argument: The Dao of Disputation; The Dao of Communication Criticism: Insects, Individuals, and Mass Society; and Sun-zi and the Art of War: The Rhetoric of Parsimony.

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Dr. Charlene Crawley Dr. Crawley grew up in Richmond, across from Fairfield Court, and attended Kennedy High School. She recalls integration busing in the ‘70s; this effort brought students living in the Windsor Farms neighborhood, including a daughter of Governor Holton, to her high school.

Charlene received her B.S. in Chemistry from VCU in 1978 and M.S. in Chemistry from VCU in 1982. Although she received her Ph.D. from the University of Delaware she considers VCU her alma mater. After receiving her Ph.D. she entered industry for eight years. She found little freedom in the corporate sector and decided that performing research and teaching at a university would be a better fit for her talents, interests and goals.

Charlene started as a faculty member at VCU in 1995, and is currently the B.S. Interdisciplinary Science Program Coordinator, and the Emerging Scholars Program in Chemistry Coordinator.

Charlene’s passion is advocating for and assisting students who have the ability to be successful academically in the sciences, but lack direction or familial resources. Charlene’s dedication to this cause is close to her heart because her parents did not have a formal education. She is the youngest child of ten biological brothers and sisters and four foster siblings. Her parents worked many jobs to support the family and were entrepreneurial – owning several small businesses and restaurants around Richmond. Charlene worked about fifty hours a week while in school at VCU to help provide for the family. Outside of VCU and work, Charlene enjoys spending time with her husband and two dogs.

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Innovations for Success in Improving Diversity and Decreasing Disparities

Dr. Louis Dale After more than 40 years at UAB, Vice President of Equity and Diversity Louis Dale, Ph.D., has announced his retirement, effective Jan. 31, 2015.

Dale came to UAB with a newly minted doctorate in mathematics in 1971 and leaves vice president of an institution that is consistently recognized by “Princeton Review” as one of the most diverse college campuses in the country. “Dr. Dale’s presence at UAB for more than four decades has touched many lives and contributed greatly to our culture,” said UAB President Ray Watts. “He has contributed to our campus and community through his many actions on behalf of our students, faculty and staff, and he has provided invaluable counsel to countless members of the UAB family. Dr. Dale has cemented a legacy we will work to honor by following his example every day.”

As vice president of Equity and Diversity, Dale was instrumental in establishing the Commission on the Status of Women to advise the president on issues, policies and practices that affect women at UAB. A Diversity Awareness Education program, African American Faculty Association, Hispanic Latino Faculty Association and the UAB Diversity Council also are among the many programs implemented during his tenure.

“I will leave UAB as the most diverse and forward-thinking university in the Southeast,” Dale said. “UAB is certainly a university of opportunity. It has been and always will be one of the great privileges of my life to have contributed to the success of an institution that educates, discovers, saves lives and makes such a difference in our city, state and world.”

Dale joined the UAB faculty in 1971after earning his doctorate in mathematics from the University of Alabama. He was promoted to associate professor in 1977 and to full professor in 1980. He was interim chair of the Department of Mathematics from 1982-84 and associate dean of the School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics from 1981-91. From 1991-95 he was associate vice president for Academic Affairs before assuming the role of associate vice provost for Minority and Special Programs. He was appointed to the new position of vice president for Equity and Diversity in 2003.

During the course of 25 years, Dale secured more than $40 million through the National Science Foundation to help with recruitment and retention of science, mathematics and engineering students in Alabama institutions of higher learning.

Dale hopes the Office of Equity and Diversity continues to build on the accomplishments from the past 10 years to make UAB an even more diverse university.

Co-chairs who will lead the search for Dale’s replacement are Collat School of Business Dean Eric Jack, Ph.D., and Mona Fouad, M.D., director of the Division of Preventive Medicine and UAB’s Minority Health and Health Disparities Research Center.

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Dr. Meridith Davis Dr. Meridith Davis is the Associate Dean of Students at Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee. Prior to her position as Associate Dean of Students, Dr. Davis was the Manager of School Programs and Instructional Relations at the National Civil Rights Museums at the Lorraine Motel where she managed school programs including grants, curriculum and instructional support for teachers nationally.

She also served as a member of the 20 million roller renovation scholarship team and coordinating the Public Forum during annual Freedom Awards celebration offering more than 4,000 students the opportunity to attend a special presentation.

Dr. Davis received her Bachelor Degree from St. Mary’s College in Maryland, her graduate degree from the University of Maryland Baltimore County and her Ph.D. from Rutgers University.

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Innovations for Success in Improving Diversity and Decreasing Disparities

Dr. Wil Del Pilar Wil Del Pilar, Ph.D., serves as Ed Trust’s vice president of higher education policy and practice. In this role, Wil spearheads Ed Trust’s mission to highlight inequities and outline solutions in order to improve access, success, affordability, and completion in higher education for low-income students and students of color.

Prior to joining Ed Trust, Wil served in Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf ’s administration as deputy secretary of postsecondary and higher education, where he developed and implemented the state’s strategic vision for higher education. Before joining Governor Wolf ’s team, Wil had experience in the Pennsylvania Department of Education, working as an executive assistant in the state’s higher education office. In this role, he managed an array of services for the state, including the College Access Challenge Grant and the Pennsylvania Information Management System.

Aside from working for Pennsylvania’s Department of Education in higher education policy roles, Wil has held senior development positions, as the director of development at Pennsylvania State University and at the University of Florida’s Machen Florida Opportunity Scholars Program. In both positions, he fought to secure funding to support access and success initiatives for historically underrepresented students.

In addition to his policy and development experience, Wil has a wealth of institutional experience, working in admissions at Chapman University in Orange, California, and the University of California Santa Cruz, as a financial aid counselor at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, and as a research assistant at Penn State.

Wil holds a doctorate in higher education/higher education administration from The Pennsylvania State University, a master’s degree from California State University-Dominguez Hills, and a bachelor’s degree from Chapman University.

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Dr. Paulette Patterson Dilworth Dr. Paulette Patterson Dilworth was named Vice President for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in October 2015. Prior to joining UAB, she was faculty and assistant vice president for access and community initiatives at Auburn University and associate professor of curriculum studies in the School of Education at Indiana University-Bloomington. Besides a strong affinity for art and music, Dr. Dilworth has accumulated more than 30 years of experience in higher education, diversity education consulting and training, recruitment, retention, research, teaching and outreach.

Dr. Dilworth has devoted her professional career and much of her personal life to exploring issues of access, civic engagement, equity and community building. Dilworth earned a Ph.D. in educational studies from Emory University in Atlanta. Before moving to Indiana University in 2000, she worked at Emory University in the Office of Equal Opportunity Programs as Director of Minority Affairs and Assistant Director of Equal Opportunity Programs.

Active in professional, civic and higher-education organizations, Dr. Dilworth is past Chair of the Executive Board of the College and University Faculty Assembly of the National Council for the Social Studies. More recently, she served as the associate editor of Theory and Research in Social Education and has chaired the Research Focused on Social Studies SIG of the American Education Research Association.

She has served as the Equity Chair for Division B—Curriculum Studies and is a past member of the Equity Council of the American Education Research Association and past Vice President of the Indiana Council for the Social Studies. She was appointed by the mayor of the city of Bloomington to serve on the Commission on the Status of Black Males. She is a member of the Executive Board of the Shiloh Community Restoration Foundation, Inc. an organization committed to the restoration of one of the original Rosenwald Schools and serves as chair of the Finance Committee. She is also the Immediate Past President of the Dream Day Foundation Advisory Board. Dr. Dilworth is an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., a public service sorority and the Links, Inc., a philanthropic organization.

Over the course of her career, Dr. Dilworth has been recognized with several awards for her contributions to research, teaching and service to education, including the National Council for Social Studies Exemplary Research Award, the Kipchoge Kirkland Teaching for Social Justice Award and the Emory University Outstanding Contributions and Service to the University Award. She is author or coauthor of numerous research publications and has been involved as an editor, consultant, reviewer or contributor in many other print and electronic publishing projects.

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Innovations for Success in Improving Diversity and Decreasing Disparities

Dr. Charlene M. Dukes Dr.Charlene Dukes is the eighth and first female President of Prince George’s Community College (PGCC). With more than 44,000 students at 6 locations, including the Largo Campus, Prince George’s Community College offers 200 credit and workforce development and continuing education programs. The college is home to the National Cyberwatch Center, an ATE site funded by the National Science Foundation, and is designated a 2010-2015 and 20152020 Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance at the two• year level. PGCC is also the location of the first middle college high school in Maryland, the Academy for Health Sciences, which is a partnership with the Prince George’s County Public Schools. The first graduating class received high school diplomas and associate degrees simultaneously in May 2015.

Dr. Dukes holds membership in a variety of professional organizations, including the Boards of Directors of the American Association of Community Colleges, where she currently serves as the Board Chair; the Institute for Higher Education Policy (IHEP); the President’s Round Table; and the National Council on Black American Affairs.

Dr. Dukes is a member of the board of directors of the Prince George’s County Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Prince George’s Business Roundtable, and Hillside• Works Scholarship Connection. She is on the board of directors of the Harlem Renaissance Foundation, the Community Foundation of the National Capital Region, and the Meyer Foundation. She is past secretary of the Presidents’ Round Table and cocoordinated the Thomas Lakin Institute for Mentored Leadership from 2009 to 2014. Dr. Dukes was adjunct faculty at the Community College of Allegheny County in Pittsburgh in the English Department, at Prince George’s Community College in Learning Foundations (formerly Developmental Studies), and at Morgan State University in the Community College Leadership Doctoral Program. .

Dr. Dukes is a lifetime member of Delta SigmaTheta Sorority, Inc., a member of the Prince George’s County (MD) Chapter of the Links, Inc., and a member of the “Go On Girl” National Book Club. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Secondary Education with an English concentration from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and a master’s and doctorate in Administrative and Policy Studies from the University of Pittsburgh.

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Dr. Cerise Elliot Dr. Cerise Elliott is a senior research program analyst for the Dementias of Aging Branch of the Division of Neuroscience (DN). She has been a member of the DN staff since January 2008, creating evaluation and management systems for nine research portfolios. She coordinates the health disparities program for Alzheimer’s disease, administers the Alzheimer’s Disease Centers program, and manages Data and Safety Monitoring Boards for Alzheimer’s clinical trials.

She previously held positions in the NIH Office of Intramural Research and the Office of Extramural Research in the Office of the NIH Director from 2004 to 2008 where she was the liaison with non-profit organizations, patient advocacy groups, the drug industry, and individuals for dissemination of NIH policies and programs to stakeholders.

Dr. Elliott received her B.S. in chemistry from Creighton University in Omaha, NE and her Ph.D. in neuroscience from the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Her scientific research focused on cell apoptosis controlled by peripheral T cells in multiple sclerosis.

Her recent programmatic interests are creating new and effective scientific collaborations, facilitating successful mentoring relationships among grantees, and providing effective evaluation of program development.

Dr. Elliott has published in journals and served on a number NIA and NIH committees and workgroups.

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InnovationsDiversity Increasing for Success andinDiminishing Improving Diversity Disparities: and Lessons Decreasing Learned Disparities and the Agenda Ahead

WE’RE CHANGING MINDS A dynamic public research university committed to inclusivity and excellence, the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) has become one of the fastest-growing and most diverse research universities in the nation, ranked #2 in “most diverse student body” by The Princeton Review in 2008. This uncommon intersection of strengths has made our vibrant campus a new model for American higher education, and our talented faculty thrive in a culture that is ambitious, entrepreneurial, and open to new ideas.

Dr. Claudia Galindo Assistant Professor, Language, Literacy and Culture Family and community section editor of fourvolume Encyclopedia of Diversity in Education, a definitive reference for scholars and policy makers on diversity issues in education in the U.S. and the world; UMBC Latino/Hispanic Faculty Association co-founder.

James Smalls Professor, Visual Arts Named contributing editor to The Grove Encyclopedia of American Art; recently published “In Bed With Marat: (Un)Doing Masculinity,” in Interior Portraiture and Masculine Identity in France, 1780-1914; curated two-part exhibition at Baltimore Museum of Art on art, career, and international influence of African American artist Henry Ossawa Tanner.

Dr. Maricel Kann Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences and Affiliate Assistant Professor of Computer Science Chaired international conference sessions at Pacific Symposium on Biocomputing, Intelligent Systems and Molecular Biology and American Medical Informatics Association Summit in Bioinformatics; Journal of Biomedical Informatics and the International Journal of Computations Models and Algorithms in Medicine editorial board member; PubMedCentral National Committee advisory board member; UMBC Diversity Council member and Latino/Hispanic Faculty Association founding member.

Dr. Mavis Sanders Professor, Education Recently published Principals Matter: A Guide to School, Family, and Community Partnerships; currently conducting research on leadership for community schools funded by Spencer Foundation; Senior Adviser to National Network of Partnership Schools, dedicated to increasing capacity of school, district, and state leaders to build comprehensive partnership programs.

Dr. Tyson King-Meadows Associate Professor of Political Science and Affiliate Faculty in the departments of Public Policy and Africana Studies, the Honors College and the Maryland Institute for Policy Analysis and Research Named to 2012-13 class of American Political Science Association’s Congressional Fellows; recently published When the Letter Betrays the Spirit: Voting Rights Enforcement and African American Participation from Lyndon Johnson to Barack Obama; Johns Hopkins University Center for Africana Studies visiting scholar; National Conference of Black Political Scientists president (2011-13); CAHSS Black Faculty Committee co-chair and UMBC Executive Committee on the Recruitment, Retention and Advancement of Underrepresented Minority Faculty member.

• 2015 Great Colleges to Work For (Chronicle of Higher Education, 2016) • #4 “Most Innovative” national university, and #6 among campuses with an “unusually strong commitment to undergraduate teaching (US News & World Report, 2015) • Among top 25 most diverse national universities (US News & World Report, 2012)

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facultydiversity.umbc.edu | meyerhoff.umbc.edu

18th National Role Models Conference

Ms. Edie Fraser Edie Fraser is Chairman and Founder of STEMconnector® and Million Women Mentors (MWM), and serves as Vice Chairman of Diversified Search. Edie championed the STEM education and jobs framework and with her team has built the respected consulting and communications service.

STEMconnector® covers 6600 organizations and has 140 paid members. One of the major Initiatives from STEMconnector® is Million Women Mentors (MWM), a movement for mentoring women in STEM careers.

Formerly, Edie built three best practices initiatives: Diversity Best Practices, Business Women’s Network, and Best Practices in Corporate Communications as CEO of the Public Affairs Group, Inc. Edie led several grass-roots campaigns and won a Silver Anvil for the USJapan Initiative and five Thoth Awards. Edie worked with more than 250 Fortune companies on women and diversity leadership. She started her career with five years on the staff of the Peace Corps.

Edie has written or served as publisher of many books, papers, and articles. Edie wrote a book, Do Your Giving While You’re Living, and another on Women’s Entrepreneurship. She was honored as a recipient of the Mosaic Woman Award and Lifetime Achievement Awards. Edie has won 48 major awards in Leadership and Innovation, Diversity and Women, Entrepreneurship, and Communications.

Edie is the first woman to serve as Chairman of the World Affairs Council of DC. She was inducted into the Enterprising Women Hall of Fame and is a Founding member of C200.

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Innovations for Success in Improving Diversity and Decreasing Disparities

Mr. Tony Harris Tony Harris is a B.A. graduate in English from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.

He entered broadcasting as a nineteen-year-old radio disc jockey in his native Baltimore, Maryland. Two years later, he moved to television as a features reporter for an afternoon newsmagazine in Cleveland, Ohio. He rose to co-host. Moving to New York City, he worked as an entertainment reporter for Entertainment Tonight and the Home Box Office. He returned to Cleveland in the early 1990s as a weekend news anchor, then again to New York City, and Los Angeles, as a reporter for the Fox Network prime time newsmagazine Front Page.

He returned to local news as lead anchor for WBFF and WNUV in Baltimore, and then for WGCL-TVin Atlanta, Georgia. Based at CNN Center in Atlanta, Harris co-anchored CNN Saturday Morning and CNN Sunday Morning with Betty Nguyen until he made the move to anchor CNN Newsroom on September 8, 2008. He was also a frequent substitute anchor on weekday news programs including American Morning. Harris has won an Emmy Award.

He left CNN at the end of December 2010.

In April 2011, Harris debuted as an anchor on Al Jazeera English. His first broadcast was at 1600GMT on April 12, 2011.

On August 20, 2013, he debuted as an anchor on Al Jazeera America. His first broadcast was the first regularly scheduled program ever on the network with the news at 4:00 pm eastern time.

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Illinois, and its metropolitan campus in the Quad Cities/Moline, Illinois. WIU offers 66 undergraduate degree programs and 37 graduate degree programs, Summoning Our Strengths has over 700 faculty members, and has an annual budget of over $220 million.

18th National Role Models Conference Tina Monzavi Under his leadership, Western NiaIllinois Sweatt University continues to be ranked as a University of South Carolina, Columbia Howard University Dr. Willie Jackson Dr. Overtoun Jenda “Best Midwestern College” and as a “Best Regional University” by The Princeton Principal Review and U.S. News High and School World Report, respectively. Western Illinois Paris PruittConstruction Xavia Taylor Architecture, and Engineering University of Connecticut Fort Valley State University University also received continues be named a “Military Friendly School”

by GI Jobs Jenda his to Bachelor ofConstruction Science degree with distinction at the Dr. Willie Dr. Jackson is principal of Phelps Architecture, and Engineering High Magazine. of Malawi and his M.A. the University of School, theUniversity first public high school in the country to offerand bothPh.D. college degrees preparatoryfrom and career Mikaela Rhoiney Gabrielle van Genderen education.Kentucky.

Prior to being named Dr. Jackson the administrator at Phelps charge ng Dr. Thomas’ tenure, numerous programs and principal, initiatives havewas been established andin improved, including California State University San Marcos FortforValley University of implementing programs to prepare students collegeState and future careers and had held a ased partnerships with international embassies, additional scholarship funding, the number ofAfter highuniversities level positions in and theinternational Washington, D.C. public school system.

He has mentored a progressive academic degree career in Mathematic over and 2,500 students and young adults and has implemented numerous partnerships with local a mentoring DaisyScholarship Rodriguez Vanover rn Commitment the Centennial Honors College programs, related positons with theErica University ofScholarship Malawi, the University of Botswana businesses and community leaders to build and shape student leaders.

WAESO LSAMP The University of Arizona thean University of Waterloo in Canada, Dr.Thomas Jenda is earned currentlyaaBachelor professor of Arts am designed to improve retention,and and enhanced honors college.

Dr. Dr. Jackson is a native Washingtonian.

He attended Cheyney University of Pennsylvania, and received undergraduate at Auburn University. glish from Alabama A &M University, Master Education from Virginia State University, and a and graduate Sawasawa degrees from George Mason a University.

Heof is aEnglish lifetime member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.

Martial Bryan Walker in English (Literature Criticism) Indiana University ofa grant Pennsylvania. to his tenure University ofand Connecticut WAESOfor LSAMP He is from the Principal Investigator bestowed byPrior the National Scienceat WIU, Thomas served as Senior Vice Provost for Academic Interim Dean MiddleWith Tennessee State Foundation for over Affairs 5 millionand dollars for a five yearatperiod. his research Jonathan Smithcapacities Aggie Williams well documented in more than 55Thomas publications holdingofprofessional rsity and served in various at other universities.

Dr. is aand member the Illinois Board of University of South Carolina, Columbia Eastern Kentucky University memberships with the American Mathematical Society and the Mathematical er Education. He has also served as an American Council on Education Fellow, a graduate of the Harvard Association of America, Dr. Jenda has experiences and expertise as a leader among the faculty, directors and rship Program and the Middle Tennessee Program, a Kellogg-NAFEO Fellow, and participated department heads atLeadership Auburn University.

Beatriz Smith Salzburg Seminar Salzburg, Austria.

WAESOinLSAMP

2017 Student Researchers

THIS IS OUR CORNERSTONE. Diversity is a core value at Auburn University.

The Office of Diversity and Multicultural Affairs strives to offer a comprehensive range of exemplary educational programs that foster and sustain an environment that promotes academic excellence, respects differences, and accepts inclusiveness.

Auburn University, a public land-grant institution established in 1856, has developed into one of the largest universities in the South. Recognized nationally for its academic and research excellence, the university offers more than 140 degree options in 12 schools and colleges at the undergraduate, graduate, and professional levels.

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auburn.edu/diversity

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NYC Department of Information Technology & Telecommunications Kenneth Hunter is the Chief Diversity and Inclusion Employment Opportunity Officer for the Department of Information Technology and Telecommunication (DoITT) in New York City. He is Innovations for Success in Improving Diversity and Decreasing Disparities 17th National Role Models Conference responsible for providing a vision and an integrated program of equity and inclusion efforts to enhance DoITT’s Dr. Stephanie Johnson Tamar Tchelidze, MD, mission MPHand goals. He advises the Commissioner and Senior Staff on diversity issues, leads the planning implementation of DoITT’s Diversity Strategic Plan, encourages collaboration and Dr. Tamar Tchelidze has over 16 years of experience in strategic and operational cohesionplanning, among existing effortsmobilization, and programs as management well as leads the development initiatives resource and M&E of ofnew health and to clinical neuropsychologist has efforts aofpassion helping individuals provideA focus and accountability for equity andwho inclusion acrossfor theDr. Agency. development programs.

At the Embassy Georgia, Tchelidze serves as a

explore ways overcome cognitive and behavioral challenges exist. focal point andtotechnical adviser to the Ministry of Health, Laborthat and may Social An industry expert with more than 20 years of experience in the field of diversity and inclusion, Mr. Hunter has held Dr. Johnson has over 12 years of experience the fieldThroughout of mental health.

Affairs of Georgia as well as other Governmentinagencies. her I various positions throughout the country to include the Deputy Equal Employment Opportunity Officer at the Department understand that finding good therapist can benumber challenging andprojects intimidating, diplomatic career she hasainitiated and managed of global of the Navy, Naval District in Washington, DC, Equal Employment Opportunity Specialist-Special Emphasis Program however my to goal a clinical neuropsychologist is to provide a supportive contributing theasdevelopment of healthcare in Georgia.

Manager for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs in Washington, Director ofneeds the office Diversity Affairs and environment that will meet theDC, individual of of each client!

Equal Opportunity Employment Louisiana State University HealthisScience Center, in Shreveport, Louisiana and the for Dr.at Tchelidze’s career objective to help achieve better health outcomes Equal Employment Opportunity Manager for the States Coast New Connecticut.

Georgian population a Guard leading roleLondon, in individuals policy, regulatory and capacity Dr. Johnson hasUnited had and greatplay success ininhelping cope with the building interventions for ensuring equitable access to high quality care both challenges of having suffered from a traumatic or acquired brain injury andin Mr. Hunter has a Masters of Human Relations from the University of Oklahoma and a Bachelor of Science degree in public healthfamilies and clinical Herloved outstanding performance has been also helping copeinterventions. with caring for ones with these challenges.

Management Students from thewidely University of Maryland.

He graduated in the top 10% from the United States Department recognized bothinclude in the United Statesanxiety, and in Georgia.

My areas of expertise depression, and caregiver support just of Agriculture (USDA) Executive Potential Program (EPP) for high performing Federal Government employees. to name a few.

Dr. Tchelidze is currently pursuing her doctorate degree at the Department of Health Policy and Management at the .Johnson’s Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. and physiological aspects of brain function help me Dr expertise in understanding the behavioral develop effective ways to treat many of the problems that may arise from brain trauma.

The Office of Diversity and Pluralism facilitates intentional efforts to create a community of diverse faculty, staff and graduate students to enhance teaching, research, and extension.

The College of Agriculture and Natural Resources at MSU provides students an academically challenging environment where they put their knowledge into practice on campus, in Michigan and around the globe.

http://odp.anr.msu.edu/ Agricultural, Food, and Resource Economics Animal Science Biosystems & Agricultural Engineering Community Sustainability Entomology Fisheries and Wildlife Food Science and Human Nutrition Forestry Horticulture Plant, Soil, and Microbial Sciences School of Packaging School of Planning, Design and Construction W.K. Kellogg Biological Station

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18th National Role Models Conference

Mr. William King Mr. William P. King has served as an administrator in the areas of admissions and student affairs since 1985. He actively participated in minority recruitment program throughout the Washington, DC, and with “ First Generation College Bound” in Prince George’s County, MD. While working for a medical educational association, AACOM, Mr. King became involved in recruitment efforts and led initiatives that included targeting select HBCUs and securing speakers such as Dr. Barbara RossLee, the first African American dean of a medical school, and Dr. William Anderson, who spearheaded the Albany Georgia Civil Rights Movement and walked with Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. During his tenure at AACOM, the minority applicant pool and enrollment rose to an all-time high at the nation’s osteopathic medical schools.

Transitioning to work at a brand new medical school in 2002, Mr. King, who holds an M.B.A. from Loyola University, expanded his role in higher education to not only working with prospective students and applicants but also enrolling students by working in the Office of Student Affairs. He now serves as Vice President of Student Services for three campuses of the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM). Not only does VCOM enroll a high percentage of minority students, but it also strives to provide improved health care access to medically underserved populations.

Under Mr. King’s leadership, VCOM has recruited a diverse student body to meet the needs of an increasingly diverse society. Over the past 13 years since the first class was recruited, underrepresented minorities have comprised 13% of the student body, increasing to 14.5% over the past five years. In 2013, VCOM added a scholarship for qualifying students from select HBCUs to help defray the cost of applying to VCOM, further demonstrating the school’s commitment to encourage diversity at its three medical school campuses.

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Innovations for Success in Improving Diversity and Decreasing Disparities

Dr. Clarence Matthews Lee A native of Fairfield, Alabama, Dr. Clarence Matthews Lee received his Bachelor of Science degree in biology from Tuskegee University in 1962.From 1962 to 1964 he served in the Peace corps in Sierra Leone, West Africa.

In 1965, he earned a Master of Science degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in parasitology (epidemiology) and in 1969 he received his Ph.D. in zoology (parasitology) from Howard University.

Dr. Lee is currently Chair and Professor of Biology, Director of the Center for Pre-professional Education in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University and Executive Director of the Washington Baltimore Hampton Road-Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (WBHR-LSMAP) Program.

His current research involves the immunomodulation in animals due to protozoan and helminthic infections; examination of mechanisms of protective immunity to flagellated protozoan; the role of nutrients and trace elements in the immune process and identifying and validating drug targets in trypanosomes.

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18th National Role Models Conference

Dr. Wilmer Leon Wilmer Leon is the Nationally Broadcast Talk Show Host of “Inside The Issues with Wilmer Leon” Saturday’s from 11:00 am to 2:00pm on Sirius XM. Wilmer J. Leon III, Ph.D. is a Political Scientist whose primary areas of expertise are Black Politics and Public Policy.

Wilmer has a BS degree in Political Science from Hampton Institute, a Masters in Public Administration (MPA) from Howard University, and a Ph.D. in Political Science from Howard University.Dr. Leon is also the host of XM Satellite Radio’s, “Inside The Issues”, a three-hour, call-in, talk radio program airing live nationally on XM Satellite Radio channel 126.”

Dr. Leon was a featured commentator on CNN’s Lou Dobbs Tonight and is also a regular contributor to The Grio.com, The Root.com, TruthOut.org, The Maynard Institute.com and PoliticsInColor.com. “Wilmer Leon is one of a kind. In an era of heated talk radio he is a voice of reason, the light that shines on after the others have burned out.” — Juan Williams (Fox News) “Dr. Leon is incisive and thoughtful. He works to inform his listeners with solid insights.” –John W. Dean(Author and former White House legal counsel to President Nixon) “I have had the pleasure of being on Dr. Leon’s show and it was a rich experience because of his own expert preparation that allowed for a high level of interaction with the guest.

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Innovations for Success in Improving Diversity and Decreasing Disparities

Dr. Ladel Lewis Dr. Ladel Lewis, a Senior Research Strategist at Meaningful Evidence, LLC and the National Evaluation Chairperson for Blacks in Government (BIG).

Ladel focuses on maximizing impact while decreasing non response through community buy in and transparency using innovative data dissemination.

Her expertise was imperative when she returned to her hometown (Flint, MI) and assisted local community groups during the ongoing Flint Water Crisis.

Lewis earned her PhD in Sociology (concentrating in evaluation and race & ethnic relations) from Western Michigan University. Inquisitive by nature, she has conducted research in a variety of contemporary areas including the intersection of criminology and hip-hop, which has led to her dissertation titled “Stop Snitching: Hip Hop’s Influence on Crime Reporting in the Inner City. This piece research has been deemed the most downloaded dissertation in Western Michigan University’s history, and she was recently honored with the Distinguished Alumnae Award from her other alma mater, the University of Michigan-Flint.

Dr. Lewis was the president of International Training in Communication’s Judiciary Square Club. She won first-place in the Blue Ridge Region (BRR) Speech Contest held during the BRR Conference and placed in all international categories (poetry, non fiction and fiction).

Dr. Lewis also made it to the final round of the ITC International Speech Contest in Seattle, Washington.

With too many accolades to list, she recently was inducted into the Greater Genesee County Athletic Hall of Fame for basketball, appointed to the Prince George’s County Commission for Women and to the Citizens Review Board for Children. She is a contributing writer for “Courageous Woman Magazine” and will be published in their book “What is a Courageous Woman.”

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Dr. James E. Lyons, Sr. Dr. James E. Lyons, Sr. currently serves as interim president of Concordia College in Selma, Alabama. He was named by the board of regents as chief transition officer of the historically Black educational institution.

Dr. Lyons has served in a number of administrative positions in higher education, including five university presidencies. Most recently he served as the interim president of both the University of the District of Columbia and Dillard University. From 2007 to 2010, he served as secretary of the Maryland Higher Education Commission, where he helped to establish policies for Maryland’s public and private colleges and universities.

From 1999 to 2007, Lyons served as president of California State University Dominguez Hills, a Hispanic serving university, making him one of the first presidents to have served at the helm of both an HBCU and HSI. Prior to moving to California he served as president of Jackson State University, president of Bowie State University, vice president for academic affairs at Delaware State University, and vice president for academic affairs at Barber-Scotia College.

Lyons has served on numerous boards, commissions, and committees including the American Council on Education, National Institutes of Health’s Task Force on At Risk Drinking, US Dream Academy, and two Blue Ribbon Commissions reviewing higher education in Louisiana. Lyons currently serves as a member of the board of trustees of Dillard University and Alliant International University. He also served on the board of trustees of Philadelphia College of Textiles and Science, now Philadelphia University.

Lyons attended the University of Connecticut, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Spanish, a master’s in student personnel, and a Ph.D. in professional higher education administration. He has also attended the Harvard Institute for Education Management.

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Innovations for Success in Improving Diversity and Decreasing Disparities

Beverley Madden Beverley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience having worked in Human Resources since 1995.

Beverley is currently a Market Human Resources Manager for Walmart’s Southern Maryland stores.

She was recently named the MHRM of the Quarter for FY18, Q2.

Prior to joining Walmart, Beverley worked as the Human Resources Manager, Mid-Atlantic Region for Towne Park. Other prior experiences for Beverley include Regional Human Resources Manager for PSAV Presentations Services. Human Resources Advisor/Business Partner for Safeway, Director of Human Resources for Atlantic Video, Corporate HR Specialist for Millennium Hotels and Resorts and Human Resources Manager with Starwood Hotels and Resorts.

Beverley earned a Bachelors and Masters of Science in Human Resource Management and a MBA from University of Maryland University College (UMUC.) Beverley enjoys giving back to her community, as a proud Eagle Scout wife and mother, where she serves as Vice Chair of Finance for the Four Rivers District of Boy Scouts of America, Assistant Cub Master for Cub Scout Pack 662 and Team Captain for Rebekah’s Dance for American Cancer Society Relay for Life.

She previously served as Treasurer for AACCPTAs, Vice President of Leadership Development for MDPTA, and in 2013 was appointment to a 3-year term by Governor O’Malley as a member of the Maryland Advisory Council for Virtual Learning (MACVL.) She is the recipient of the Boy Scouts of America District Award of Merit, Unsung Hero Award, AACCPTA Volunteer of the Year, and received an Executive Citation from Anne Arundel County – County Executive.

Born is Guyana South America, Beverley emigrated to the United States at age 10 and grew up in Brooklyn, NY before moving to the DC area after high school. She and her husband reside in Anne Arundel County and have one son.

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18th National Role Models Conference

Dr. Albert L. McHenry Dr. Albert L. McHenry presently serves as Research Professor after retiring from the position of Vice President and Executive Vice Provost of Arizona State University at the Polytechnic campus.

He has also served as Dean of the College Science and Technology, Professor and Chair of the Department of Electronics and Computer Technology and Director of the School of Technology at Arizona State University.

Prior to beginning his tenure at ASU, Dr. McHenry was a faculty member at Southern University at Baton Rouge Louisiana for12-year.

His area of technical specialization is digital electronics.

He has industrial experience with the Boeing Co., 3M Co., Motorola, Inc. and Minority Engineers of Louisiana.

Dr. McHenry is recognized nationally as an expert and leader in engineering technology education at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. He held the position of Vice President for Public Affairs, of the American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE). Where in June of 2002 he was honored with the James H. McGraw Award and in 1995, Dean McHenry received the 1995 Frederick J. Berger Award.

Both awards were from the ASEE for major contributions to the advancement of engineering technology education and the profession where he holds the membership rank of Fellow.

Dr. McHenry has been actively involved in baccalaureate and masters level Engineering Technology Education for over 40 years. Over such a long and distinguished academic career he has accumulated a long list of publications in both refereed journals and conference proceeding. He has written two books and two chapters in other books.

Dr. McHenry is an active National Science Foundation Co-principle Investigator of the WAESO project.

These efforts have been focused on enhancing the success of young people in STEM Education with degree achievement at the baccalaureate through doctoral levels, with special mentoring for the success and employment in jobs in the professorate.

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Innovations for Success in Improving Diversity and Decreasing Disparities

Dr. Jorge G. Muniz Ortiz LCDR Jorge G. Muñiz Ortiz was born in Medellín, Colombia and grew up in San Juan, Puerto Rico. After graduating from Colegio San José in Río Piedras, Puerto Rico in 1998, he attended the University of Dayton, where he graduated with a bachelor in biology in 2002.

He graduated with his Ph.D. in Molecular Toxicogenetics from the University of Cincinnati in 2009.

LCDR Muñiz Ortiz received further training at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from 2009 to 2012 as a Postdoctoral Fellow and at the North Carolina State University from July 2012 to June 2013 as Postdoctoral Scholar.

In his first tour of duty from June 6, 2013 to December 4, 2016, LCDR Muñiz Ortiz served as a toxicologist with the Office of Public Health Science within the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) of the U. S. Department of Agriculture.

As a toxicologist with FSIS, Dr. Muñiz Ortiz evaluated the potential risk of dietary exposure to chemical residues through meat and poultry products.

Currently, LCDR Muñiz Ortiz is in his second tour of duty as a board certified toxicologist, begun on December 5, 2016 at the Antimicrobial Division of the Office of Pesticide Programs of the EPA, he performs dietary exposure and risk assessment of pesticide chemicals undergoing registration review, reregistration or new registration.

He has deployed to Puerto Rico for the federal Zika response and to Florida for the hurricane Irma response. LCDR Muñiz Ortiz lives in Arlington, VA with his wife of 11 years, 4-year-old daughter, and their dog, Princesa.

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Dr. Andrea Guzman Oliver Dr. Andrea Guzman Oliver Associate Vice President for Student Affairs is the highest ranking Latina at Florida Atlantic University.

She chairs the University Diversity Platform and work with a committee to cultivate a community in which individuals demonstrate respect toward one another; facilitate campus efforts to recruit and retain diverse talent; and develop a campus defined by best practices in equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Dr. Guzman Oliver is the former Chief Academic Officer and Provost of Health Sciences at Wayne County Community College District. She received her Ph.D. from the University of Michigan.

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Innovations for Success in Improving Diversity and Decreasing Disparities

Ms. Deborah T. Owens Deborah’s mission is to ensure that every person of color is fully supported and equipped for both the opportunities and challenges in the corporate arena. As a seasoned executive and change agent with 20+ years of Fortune 100 business experience, she has had a front row seat to the unique experiences and challenges faced by people of color in the workplace.

As a Director of Training and Sales Leader, Deborah has developed and implemented strategies to close performance gaps, maximize performance and exceed business objectives.

She has led the conception, design and implementation of franchise and enterprise-wide initiatives including: leadership development, talent management, sales and marketing training, and employee development with various companies including Johnson & Johnson, Merck and Honeywell.

She has received multiple awards and recognition for organizational impact and driving outstanding results.

Deborah’s partnership with senior executives as a Diversity and Inclusion advocate, her role as Chair of an African American Employee Resource Group, and her personal experiences inspired her to create the Corporate Alley Cat. She believes in the power of sharing experiences (good and bad), strategies, and lessons learned to accelerate career growth and success. Deborah is a proud graduate of Howard University (Bison) who holds a B.A. in Economics.

Deborah resides in Washington, DC with her husband.

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Mrs. Denise Rolark-Barnes Newspaper publisher Denise Rolark-Barnes, a Washington, D.C native, first wrote for the The Washington Informer while she was in middle school.

After graduating from Howard University in 1976 with her B.A. degree in communications, Rolark-Barnes enrolled in the Howard University School of Law where she became editor of The Barrister, the law schools’ student newspaper. Rolark-Barnes graduated from the Howard University School of Law with her J.D. degree in 1979.

In 1980, Rolark-Barnes joined the staff of The Washington Informer and was assigned as the newspaper’s managing editor. After working with her father, Dr. Calvin W. Rolark, she took over as publisher of The Washington Informer in 1994. Rolark-Barnes also served as the director of The Washington Informer Charities and is the executive producer of “The Washington Informer News,” a bi-weekly television news program. In addition, she is the host of “Let’s Talk,” a public affairs program, and “Reporter’s Roundtable.” Rolark-Barnes has appeared as a guest reporter on “The Tavis Smiley Show,” “Tony Brown’s Journal,” NBC-4’s “Reporter’s Notebook,” and several local radio and television programs.

Rolark-Barnes is the president of the District of Columbia chapter of AARP and is a member of the board of the National Newspaper Publishers Association and the United Black Fund, Inc. She is actively involved with the District of Columbia Black Public Relations Society Foundation, the Historical Society of Washington, D.C., and several other community non-profit organizations. Through The Washington Informer Charities, Rolark-Barns sponsors the annual Washington Informer City-Wide Spelling Bee as well as internships and writing competitions for high school and college students interested in pursuing careers in journalism.

In March of 2008, Rolark-Barnes was honored by the National Newspaper Publishers Association with the Chrysler Financial/National Newspaper Publishers Association Foundation Entrepreneurial Award, which recognizes the nation’s black-owned newspapers for their entrepreneurial accomplishments and commitments to community service. In 2011, she received the Jack and Lovell Olender Foundation Generous Heart Award and the Summit Health Institute for Research and Education (SHIRE) Community Champion Award. Rolark-Barnes lives in the Washington, D.C. with her husband, Lafayette Barnes. They have two sons.

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Innovations for Success in Improving Diversity and Decreasing Disparities

Dr. Kim E. Schatzel Prior to joining Towson, Schatzel served as interim president for six months while continuing her responsibilities as provost and executive vice president of academic and student affairs at Eastern Michigan University, a position she held since 2012. At EMU, a public university in Ypsilanti with an enrollment of 23,000 undergraduate and graduate students, she provided leadership for all academic, curricular, and research activities; and for enrollment management. She was also responsible for the Division of Information Technology.

Schatzel began her career in higher education in 2000 and held several positions in the College of Business at the University of Michigan-Dearborn, beginning as an assistant professor of marketing and rising to interim dean (2007-2008) and dean (2008-2012). As dean, she led the business college to reposition itself within a highly competitive market, leading to enrollment growth and enhanced ability to attract and retain outstanding faculty.

Schatzel also brings more than 20 years of corporate, new venture, and start-up experience to the Towson presidency, including serving as founding president and chief operating officer, and later as chief executive officer of a multinational industrial firm employing more than 1,500 people on four continents.

She serves on the Board of Directors for the University of Maryland St. Joseph’s Medical Center and CollegeBound Foundation. She is a former member of the Board of Directors and former chair of the Audit Committee for Health Alliance Plan, and also served on the Audit and Finance Committee for Henry Ford Health Systems, both based in Detroit.

She was recently honored by the Associated Black Charities as the 2017 “Champion for More in the Middle” for her leadership in diversity and inclusion at TU. She was also named among The Daily Record’s 2017 Influential Marylanders and 2017 Top 100 Women.

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Dr. Michael O. Smith Michael O. Smith, professor in the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture Department of Animal Science, was recently elected president of the 105-year-old Poultry Science Association.

Smith teaches courses in poultry production, serves as the scholarship coordinator for the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources and also holds an appointment with UT AgResearch conducting research in poultry management under heat stress conditions. Both CASNR and AgResearch are units of the UT Institute of Agriculture.

Smith was elected to the post at the organization’s annual meeting, held July 21-25 in San Diego.

The Poultry Science Association is a professional organization made up of educators, scientists, extension specialists, administrators and producers who are committed to advancing the poultry industry. The organization is a global scientific society dedicated to the discovery and dissemination of knowledge generated by poultry research – knowledge that enhances human and animal health and well-being and provides for the ethical, sustainable and economical production of food. Founded in 1908, PSA has a global membership of about 1,400. For more information, visit http://www.poultryscience.org.

Smith, who specializes in poultry production, earned a Ph.D. in animal nutrition from Oklahoma State University. He also earned a master’s and a bachelor’s degree in animal science from the school.

Smith’s research focuses on physiological and nutritional factors involved with the growth and survival of poultry, particularly those populations facing heat stress, a detrimental environmental factor affecting producers worldwide. He also studies the interaction among nutrients, other additives and environment in this type of bird population. Based on his research, he promotes management and nutrition-based tools to augment poultry production during heat stress.

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Innovations for Success in Improving Diversity and Decreasing Disparities

Dr. Melanie Van Stry Dr. Melanie Van Stry earned a B.S. in Biochemistry from Boston College. Dr. Van Stry completed her Ph.D. in Biochemistry at Boston University under the advisement of Dr. Karen Symes, where she studied the role of platelet-derived growth factor signaling during gastrulation in Xenopus laevis.

Dr. Van Stry received her postdoctoral training at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, TN in the laboratories of Dr. John Cunningham and Dr. Mark Bix, where she studied epithelial-mesenchyme transitions during vertebrate development, the genetic causes of atopic disease, and host responses to influenza infection.

Her dissertation and postdoctoral research has been published in several journals, including Developmental Biology, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, Nature Immunology, and Journal of Virology. Dr. Van Stry is now an Assistant Professor of Biology at Lane College in Jackson, TN. While at Lane College, she has taught several biology courses, including Microbiology, Cell Physiology, Biochemistry, General Biology, and Biological Science. In addition to her teaching duties at Lane College, Dr. Van Stry is serving as a member of the Green Team, which is working toward solutions for sustainability on campus, and as a member of Quality Enhancement Plan Assessment Committee.

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Ms. Cheryl G. Wade Cheryl G. Wade is a highly action and results oriented strategic change and engagement leader with an over 18 year track record of success advising public and private sector companies on strategic large scale transformation initiatives.

Currently as Head of Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) at Booz Allen Hamilton, Cheryl leads the firm’s diversity and inclusion strategy and team and is responsible for driving strategy and developing programs to advance a culture of inclusion. Cheryl works across business lines, functions, and external strategic partners to translate the business case into strategic initiatives and successful implementation to support innovation and business growth.

She leads the integration of D&I priorities into core business practices and talent processes as a change agent to facilitate shared commitment and accountability. Major accomplishments in this role include earning firm recognition as a ‘Best Company for ERGs’, launching the firm’s Multicultural Agenda and Scorecard, Inclusive Sponsorship awareness initiative, Problem Solvers Campaign and STEM Girls 4 Social Good (#SG4SG) initiative.

Cheryl joined Booz Allen in 2002 as a strategy and change engagement consultant, where she led multimillion-dollar external client engagements and project teams in change management, process improvement, organizational development, strategic communications, and outsourcing optimization for various clients.

She is a solution focused thought leader, systems thinker, influencer, staff motivator, and team collaborator.

Prior to joining Booz Allen, Ms. Wade held a variety of consultative technical roles and leadership positions with PricewaterhouseCoopers, Neustar, Siemens and General Electric.

Cheryl passionately serves in leadership roles for non-profit and philanthropic organizations. With a passion for empowering young girls and improving the lives of the underserved, Cheryl utilizes her business acumen, leadership skills, and personal passion to fuel the success of various affiliations including her social enterprise start-up, iMatter.

As a member of the board of directors for Girls Inc. of the DC Metropolitan Area, she supports efforts to increase the exposure of middle school girls to opportunities in STEM while building their self-esteem and confidence. Additionally, she is a leader in the Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter (NoVAC) of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., a public service sorority, where she supports youth programs that serve middle and high school girls in the northern Virginia community. She also donates her time as a Standards of Learning Tutor for the Alexandria Boys & Girls Clubs, where she works with elementary students to prepare for standardized testing.

Cheryl earned her Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from North Carolina A&T State University and a Master of Business Administration from North Carolina State University. She is also a Project Management Institute (PMI) certified Project Management Professional (PMP). www.minorityaccess.org

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InnovationsDiversity for Success Improving Diversity and Decreasing Disparities Increasing andinDiminishing Disparities: Lessons Learned and the Agenda Ahead

Minority Access, Inc. has a limited number of tickets available for tours of the Smithsonian National National Museum History andp.m.

Culture African The American Museum of Historyof& African Culture onAmerican Sunday, October 2, 12:00 and Tuesday, October 4, 12:45Inc. p.m.Ave Please with our registration desk for ticket information.

Constitution NW,check Washington, DC 20560 • www.nmaahc.si.edu Minority Access, 64 4 1400

18th National Role Models Conference

MARRIOTT MARQUIS FLOOR PLANS

www.minorityaccess.org

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18th 17thNational NationalRole RoleModels Models Conference Conference

WHEN YOUR COLLEGE TOWN IS A CITY,

your opportunities are endless.

uab.edu/apply

205.934.8221 www.minorityaccess.org

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