Sincerely, Love Program Booklet 10.10.25 by Center for Data Analytics

THE 2025 SINCERELY, LOVE MENTAL HEALTH SUMMIT

I n H o n o r o f

W o r l d M e n t a l H e a l t h D a y

Presented by:

WELCOME LETTER FROM THE DEAN

Center for Business & Graduate Studies

DR.MOHAMED DJERDJOURI

Dean, Center for Business & Graduate Studies

Dear Guests, Partners, and Members of the Bowie State University Community,

Welcome to the Sincerely, Love Mental Health Summit, a transformative gathering that embodies who we are as a university and as a community. In observance of World Mental Health Day, we come together to advance awareness, education, and healing around mental health.

The Center for Business & Graduate Studies is honored to join the Center for Data Analytics and Sincerely, Love in presenting this important event.

At its heart, our BSU student researchers, led by Dr Eona Harrison, will share findings from their summer study on the factors shaping mental health, work that reflects our university’s dedication to data-driven insights and social impact Today’s program offers meaningful dialogue, access to valuable resources, and opportunities for reflection and renewal.

Above all, it reminds us that love in action, through compassion, empathy, and understanding, is one of the greatest forces for healing and connection. May this Summit inspire each of us to care deeply, lead boldly, and continue building communities rooted in love, strength, and hope.

Center for Business & Graduate Studies

Mission Statement: To develop individuals from diverse backgrounds into professionals with a global perspective through a comprehensive education in business, information systems, and public administration that emphasizes academic excellence, professionalism, and innovation in teaching, scholarship, and service.

Vision Statement: The Center for Business & Graduate Studies will be recognized for having premier careeroriented programs in business, information systems, and public administration

SINCERELY, LOVE MENTAL HEALTH SUMMIT

V I S I O N

The Sincerely, Love Mental Health Summit is a dynamic, community-centered gathering dedicated to advancing awareness, education, and healing around mental health. The Summit convenes advocates, licensed counselors, leading officials, students, and members of the local community for meaningful, solutions-focused dialogue. At the heart of the event, a team of BSU students will debut findings from a summer research project on mental health, led by Dr. Eona Harrison. Their work underscores the Summit’s core mission: to educate both campus and community audiences on the critical factors shaping mental health, the societal impacts we all experience, and the resources available to support those in need. The Summit is designed not only to inform but also to inspire.

Attendees will have access to vital mental health resources from NAMI, local therapists, and campus-based support services like BSU’s Thurgood Marshall Library. Complementing the panel discussions, the program includes stress-relief activities, community-building opportunities, and a dedicated Wellness Lounge featuring self-care experiences and activations. Most importantly, the Summit embodies the principle and spirit of love in action, advocating that we share in the responsibility to treat one another with compassion, care, and respect. By bringing together diverse voices and perspectives, the Sincerely, Love Mental Health Summit creates safe spaces for honest conversation, collective growth, healing, meaningful connection and unity.

EVENT PROGRAM

PROGRAM SCHEDULE

TIME ACTIVITY

9:00am – 10:00am

9:00am - 11:00am

10:00am - 10:05am

10:05am – 10:25am

Registration Check-in

Breakfast

Emcee Welcome & Opening Remarks from Governor Wes Moore - State of Maryland

Opening Remarks (Mayor Tim Adams - City of Bowie, Dr. GuyAlain Amoussou - Provost, BSU, Dr. Eona Harrison - Director of the Center for Data Analytics, Dr. Marquez Ball - Incoming President, 100 Black Men, PG County)

10:25am – 10:28am

10:28am - 10:30am

10:30am – 10:45am

10:45am - 10:50am

10:50am - 11:00am

11:00am - 11:15am

11:15am - 12:15pm

12:15pm – 12:30pm

12:30pm - 1:30pm

Song Selection: Stevie Wonder’s “Love’s in Need of Love” performed by Brandon Felder’s BSU Concert Choir

“Love Is...” Video

“Let’s Try Love” - Johnathan Medlock - Sincerely, Love

Spoken Word Performance: Marqui Williams

Giveaway & Icebreaker - Bibi Akinjala

Center for Data Analytics Student Presentations

Panel Discussion: The Impact of Love on Our Mental Health

Journey to Journaling: Alexandra Milewhich - Founder & CEO

Project Blackbird Lunch

PROGRAM SCHEDULE

TIME ACTIVITY

1:30pm - 1:35pm

1:35pm - 2:35pm

2:35pm – 2:45pm

2:45pm - 2:50pm

2:50pm - 2:55pm

2:55pm - 3:00pm

Raffle Giveaways

Panel Discussion: Cancel Culture vs. Love Culture

“Let’s Try Love” Social Media Challenge

Recap of the Day - Johnathan Medlock/Dr. Eona Harrison

Community Charge

Closing Remarks

TITLE SPONSOR

Bowie State University’s Center for Data Analytics (CDA) is Maryland’s #1 hub for data analytics solutions and AI training, The CDA serves as a FREE goto, campus source for academic support and industry opportunities a dynamic hub dedicated to advancing research, education, and innovation through data-driven insights.

Established to serve the needs of students, faculty, and staff, the CDA provides a centralized resource for data analytics, offering support for academic research, data-driven projects, and interdisciplinary collaboration The Center is committed to fostering a culture of excellence and innovation within the university and beyond.

CO-SPONSOR

LO

Sincerely,

Sincerely, Love is a global nonprofit inspiring people to lead with love through intentional care, compassion, and concern to heal hearts, minds, and communities. Founded by The Honorable Johnathan Medlock, the organization’s mission is to reclaim love as a daily choice and unifying force.

IIn a world where loneliness, trauma, isolation, and toxic experiences have negatively impacted society, causing many mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and thoughts of self harm, Sincerely, Love champions “love in action” as a key solution Through creating spaces for healing and unity, curating meaningful programming, and partnering with mental health and wellness advocates, Sincerely, Love aims to inspire conversations that ignite compassion and connection, bridging the gap between isolation and community.

SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT

Event Contributor

The Prince George’s County chapter of the 100 Black Men of America, Inc. was founded on December 15, 2012. We provide community empowerment programs based on our four guiding Mentoring pillars of Education, Health and Wellness, Economic Empowerment, and Leadership.

In-Kind Sponsor

Founded in 2013 by Washington, D.C. native Nikki Brooks, Zen in a Jar is a skin care and lifestyle line born after family matriarchs helped her tap into her love language of gifting and giving for a purpose. The brand offers an assortment of scrubs, oils, soaps and whipped Shea butter available in a range of scents Brooks also offers soy candles, room and linen sprays and baby/bridal shower-in-a-box packages.

LOVE & MENTAL HEALTH

DATA

U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy declared loneliness and isolation a silent public health epidemic

1 in 6 adults globally feel persistently lonely every day

Social isolation increases the risk of death by 26%.

Toxic friendships and relationships increase the risk of anxiety-related disorders by more than 40%.

Touch starvation and emotional neglect correlates with higher rates of depression, heart disease, and cognitive decline.

Roughly 1 in 4 university-aged individuals experience suicidal thoughts or attempts when social support is low

EVENT HOST

Host & Panel Facilitator Director, Center for Data Analytics

Bowie State University

DR.EONA HARRISON

Eona Harrison, PhD is the Director of the Center for Data Analytics (CDA) and the DARTT Lab at Bowie State University, where she leads initiatives that translate complex data into actionable insights for students, faculty, and community partners. A trained demographer and sociologist, she brings expertise in mixedmethods research, program evaluation, and data storytelling

Her work is rooted in community-engaged research, with a strong focus on building capacity and equipping organizations, students, and local businesses with the tools to drive meaningful change She has led large, multi-year grant projects and developed innovative training programs that elevate data literacy, strengthen program development, and expand research opportunities across sectors.

At Bowie State, Dr Harrison is preparing students for the future of data and artificial intelligence by fostering hands-on learning, industry-aligned training, and opportunities to apply their skills in real-world contexts. Through the CDA and DARTT Lab, she creates pathways for collaboration between academia, industry, and community stakeholders, ensuring that data and AI serve as bridges to problem-solving, broader participation, and sustainable impact.

EVENT HOST

JOHNATHAN MEDLOCK

Host & Speaker

Founder

Sincerely, Love

Sincerely,

Johnathan Medlock has spent more than 30 years working to make communities stronger, always guided by compassion and a belief in people. His journey has taken him through public service, advocacy, and leadership roles in everything from education and economic empowerment to community safety and mental health.

Sincerely, Love grew out of a deeply personal chapter in Johnathan’s life. After losing a loved one to suicide, he felt called to create something that redefines love not as a passing feeling, but as a daily choice to connect, to heal, and to stand against isolation. What started in grief has become a movement for community transformation

A passionate voice for mental health, Johnathan has spoken across neighborhoods and institutions about the importance of emotional wellness, self-compassion, and creating spaces where people feel seen and supported. His leadership style is rooted in humanity, always placing love and connection at the center

Johnathan’s public service path includes serving as City Commissioner, Vice Mayor, Acting Mayor, and later the 18th Mayor of District Heights, Maryland, where he led the city through the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic Today, he continues his impact as Assistant Secretary of External Affairs under Governor Wes Moore and through his work on the Prince George’s County Council, where he pushes forward efforts that uplift and protect the community.

Through Sincerely, Love, Johnathan invites others to walk with him in building a world where love is intentional, communities come together across differences, and mental health is cared for with the attention it deserves.

EMCEE AND PRESENTER

EARLELLIOT

Emcee Standup comedian Mental Health Advocate

Earl Elliot is a stand-up comedian and mental health advocate who doesn’t just tell jokes, he makes you feel them With humor that uplifts as much as it entertains, Earl has often used his platform to champion mental health and wellness at nonprofit events across the country

Born in Columbia, Maryland, he’s been lighting up stages since breaking into the Minneapolis comedy scene in 2012. His sharp, fearless, and refreshingly real style dives into life’s contradictions and everyday absurdities with wit, honesty, and heart.

Earl’s comedic talent has been featured on Comedy Central, Acme Comedy Company, and stages nationwide, earning him a reputation for making audiences laugh, think, and heal at the same time.

BOLAMETIREN AKINLAJA

Ice Breaker Presenter Program Manager

Center for Data Analytics

Bowie State University

Bolametiren Cecilia Akinlaja is a dynamic professional with a Master of Business Administration from Bowie State University and a wealth of experience in data management, business analytics, and project management She is the Program Manager with BSU’s Center for Data Analytics,

Bolametiren excels in driving data-driven decisionmaking and implementing strategic initiatives to enhance organizational effectiveness. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for problem-solving, Bolametiren has a proven track record of delivering successful projects. Beyond her professional pursuits, Bolametiren is a passionate musician who enjoys sharing her vocal talents as a member of a band in her spare time

SPEAKER LINEUP

WELCOME REMARKS

Governor Wes Moore (Recorded)

Wes Moore is the 63rd Governor of the state of Maryland. He is Maryland’s first Black Governor, and is just the third African American elected Governor in the history of the United States. As a Rhodes Scholar, he earned a Master’s in international relations from Wolfson College at Oxford.

In 2005, Moore deployed to Afghanistan as a lieutenant with the 82nd Airborne Division, leading soldiers in combat. Immediately upon returning home, Moore served as a White House Fellow, advising on issues of national security and international relations.

Mayor Tim Adams, City of Bowie

Timothy J. Adams was sworn into his second four-year term as Mayor of the City of Bowie, Maryland on Nov. 20, 2023. He was the first African American Mayor in the 138-year history of the City. Mr. Adams is President and CEO of Systems Application & Technologies, Inc., a technology and technical support company that provides services across the globe

A proud HBCU graduate, Mr. Adams holds a B.S. degree from Xavier University and a MBA from the University of New Orleans. He received a Doctorate of Business (Honoris Causa) from Bowie State University in May 2017.

Dr. Guy-Alain Amoussou, Provost, Bowie State University

Guy-Alain Amoussou is Provost at Bowie State University. He was previously Associate Provost and VP of Student Affairs. Earlier in his career, he was a professor of computer science at Humboldt State University in California.

Dr. Amoussou is a graduate of the Universite de Picardie in France and holds a master’s degree from the Universite Paris IX Dauphine. He earned a Ph.D. in industrial systems engineering and computer science from the Universite de Technologie de Compiegne in France.

WELCOME REMARKS

Dr. Eona Harrison, Director, Center for Data Analytics

Eona Harrison, PhD is the Director of the Center for Data Analytics (CDA) and the DARTT Lab at Bowie State University, where she leads initiatives that translate complex data into actionable insights for students, faculty, and community partners. A trained demographer and sociologist, she brings expertise in mixed-methods research, program evaluation, and data storytelling.

Dr. Marquez Ball, President, 100 Black Men of PG County

Dr. Ball is the incoming President of the 100 Black Men of Prince George’s County. After a stint in the military and various ministry efforts, he formed Uplift Church in Hyattsville, where he currently pastors. Dr. Ball received a BA in Biblical Studies from Maple Springs Baptist Bible College, a Master of Divinity degree from the Howard University School of Divinity, and a Doctorate from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He holds several key positions in ministry and the community,

STUDENT RESEARCH

WHAT IS LOVE TO YOU

ABOUT THE RESEARCH

The Center for Data Analytics, in partnership with Sincerely, Love, selected five student researchers to carry out an interdisciplinary project exploring the emotional, physiological, and cultural dimensions of love

This research initiative combined qualitative and quantitative approaches to understand how love is expressed, received, and perceived Focus areas included: examining the frequency, context, and emotional resonance of hearing "I love you,” exploring personal, cultural, and generational definitions of love exploring emotional and psychological reactions to being told “I love you,” including trust, safety, anxiety, or vulnerability, the physiological and psychological changes people experience when they give or receive love, and identifying what existing data suggests about the role of love and connection in meeting basic human needs.

The culmination of this work was compiled into a unified report and presentation that weaves together data, personal narratives, and strategic insights to deepen human connection

RESEARCH

TEAM

STUDENT BACKGROUND

Adedamola Haastrup

Oluwafemi

Ayanna Benfield

Chiemela Kalu

BréNard Blackmon

Graduate Assistant with award-winning encryption policy research (ITNG 2024), developed a data governance framework balancing privacy and public safety Worked on the State Opioid Response (SOR) internship project, analyzing health data templates to support crisis intervention efforts in Maryland

Nithisha Ponnala

Interned at Con Edison supporting project management and quality control using Excel and Smartsheet. Also interned at the Federal Reserve Board managing facilities data, contributing to her interest in practical applications of analytics.

Led research on the mental health effects of gun violence in Prince George’s County. Utilized clustering and regression analysis through Azure ML and SAS to develop interactive dashboards. Presented findings to support targeted public health interventions.

Interned at Pervista, creating descriptive statistical models using Azure. Gained hands-on experience in data storytelling and cloud computing. Active member of the Data Tribe, with a strong interest in analytics communication

Nithisha is a Graduate Assistant in the MIS Dept at BSU, where she has contributed to research initiatives focused on data-driven social impact. Her work spans projects such as the Expand AI Grant, SOR-3 (Social Determinants of Health and Opioid Intervention Data Integration), and the OCHIN Healthcare Disparities Study.

PANEL DISCUSSIONS

PANEL DISCUSSION:

“The Impact of Love on Our Mental Health”

This discussion examines how love or the absence of it impacts mental well-being. It emphasizes love as both a protective factor and a community-based intervention, urging institutions (e.g., schools, churches, families, etc.) to foster emotional connection as part of mental health care. The discussion also explores personal definitions, self-love, and love in action, offering tangible examples that make the concept accessible and deeply human.

Mayor Keith Sydnor

Mayor, City of Laurel

Keith Sydnor was elected Mayor of Laurel in November 2023, becoming the first African American to hold the office. Prior to that, he served three terms as a council member Keith worked in law enforcement for more than 22 years, retiring as a Pretrial Services Officer in 2019 His illustrious military career includes two deployments to the Persian Gulf and two deployments to Kuwait He serves on the Board of Sincerely, Love.

Mary M. Smith

Emotional Intelligence Expert

Mary M. Smith serves as the VP of Human Resources at the Jacksonville Transportation Authority In addition, she holds key positions on several committees Mary is also President of Blueprint4Intelligence, LLC ; a fullservice consulting group that provides professional services in training and development, marketing and strategic communications, emotional intelligence and all aspects of human resources.

Alexandra Miles

CEO, Project Blackbird

Ms Miles is a Washington, D C based producer, actor and non-profit founder with a focus on mental health impact. Alexandra earned degrees in Business and Fine Arts from Boston University and SCAD before producing ‘Project Blackbird’. Founder of the related non-profit PROJECT BLACKBIRD INC. Alexandra tours High School and College campuses with the ‘Project Blackbird’ short film and pairs this screening with athletes, actors and other public figure guest panelists sharing their lived experience around mental health

Nicole Lucas

Director of Programs, NAMI MoCo

Nicole Lucas holds a Master of Social Work from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, and has over twenty years of experience She is the Director of Programs at the Montgomery County Affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) where she oversees the coordination of NAMI’s signature programs, leads community mental health education efforts, and delivers presentations to reduce stigma and promote awareness around mental illness.

PANEL DISCUSSION:

“Cancel Culture vs. Love Culture”

This conversation examines the mental and emotional toll of shame-based accountability. It imagines a shift from punishment to restoration by introducing Love Culture, a framework where correction is offered with grace, compassion, and a commitment to healing.

Mayor Troy Lilly

Mayor, City of Forest Heights

Troy Barrington Lilly is the Mayor of Forest Heights, Maryland., where he has led with a bold 5-Point Plan to strengthen infrastructure, restore financial accountability, revitalize community spaces, empower youth, and plan for the future Today, he serves as a User Experience Design Manager and delivers keynote talks with a mission to help 100 million people move from fear to fulfillment through service and leadership

Collette Chambers Ogrizovic

Founder & CEO, F.R.E.S.H. Academy/CFC Management

Collette Chambers Ogrizovic is an executive life coach, Founder & CEO of F R E S H Academy and the President of CFC Management, a property management and real estate company A former partner at IBM, she led multi-million-dollar initiatives and guided large teams across the U S and abroad Through F R E S H Academy, Collette equips professionals and students with practical strategies to thrive in Finance, Relationships, Education, Spirituality, and Health

Jewell Powell

Filmmaker, Founder & CEO, Impact Nations Entertainment

Jewell Powell is an award-winning filmmaker, author, pastor, and entrepreneur She leads Impact Nations Entertainment, a production company dedicated to creating clean, high-quality films and television. Her debut feature Unfailing Love earned more than 15 awards. Jewell has over 30 years of leadership and business experience As a pastor and faith coach, she is passionate about equipping and inspiring people to walk in their purpose and fulfill their destiny

Shari A. Loveday

Licensed Therapist

As a minister and licensed therapist, Shari A. Loveday positions religious organizations to minister to the whole person by combining the power of mental and spiritual health tenets Through her private practice, she specializes in relational therapy, helping individuals, couples, and families love and be loved well Her ministry to women, youth, and children spans over 25 years. She is also a published author.

PROGRAMS CERTIFICATES

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In an era driven by information, the field of data analytics has emerged as an indispensable force, revolutionizing the way organizations across all industries derive insights and solve complex problems. Recognizing this trend, Bowie State University stands at the forefront of empowering students with the essential skills and knowledge required to navigate the dynamic landscape of data analytics

DATA ANALYTICS CONCENTRATION

Within the Department of Management Information Systems, the data analytics concentration combines the study of computer science, mathematics and business. Students must complete 24 credit hours of data analytics courses atop of required core business administartion courses.

UPPER DIV. CERT. DATA ANALYTICS

Open to all undergrad majors except Business Administration majors with a concentration in Data Analytics. The certificate focuses on empowering students to tackle problems while enhancing their knowledge, skills, and abilities to understand, identify, prepare, and analyze data using modern computing technologies

DATA SCIENCE

Within the Department of Computer Science, this data science major provides mastery of mathematics, statistics, computer science, and core data science concepts such as machine learning, deep learning, and data mining

GENERALIST DIGITAL TECH IN DA

By taking a selection of three classes, BSU students of all majors can gain sought-after introductory technology capabilities that support their field of study and receive a generalist certificate from BSU through the Capital CoLAB’s Digital Technology Credential program