Profile Publication: Black America's Best Executives and Professionals in South Florida 2023

The ICABA ® Biz Connect is a monthly hybrid (in-person and virtual) event connecting you to business growth opportunities. Meet and engage with other entrepreneurs, business leaders and experts.

BUSINESS GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES

ICABA Business Referrals

ICABA CO LAB

Founders Advisory Network Revenue Development

Friday, March 10

7:30 am - 9:00 am

ZOOM video / Call-in / Facebook live In-Person Tower Club

100 SE 3rd Avenue 28th Floor, Fort Lauderdale, FL 3339

In-person $50 | Virtual $10

FEATURED SPEAKER

ECONOMIC & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Richard Bynum Chief Corporate Responsibility Officer

BUSINESS GROWTH EXPERTS

FEATURED GUESTS

BUSINESS ALLY SPOTLIGHT

Sandy Michael-McDonald Broward County Office for Economic and Small Business Development

ENTREPRENEUR SPOTLIGHT

Thomas

Dear Attendee,

Congratulations to all our honorees, and thank you for joining us to celebrate their accomplishments!

Recognizing and celebrating each other’s success benefits the individual honoree and builds a culture of respect, value, and support for one another. As we celebrate today, I encourage you to capitalize on this opportunity to meet someone you do not know and offer your assistance to them. The value and support you extend to others will always come back to you.

ICABA’s mission is to assist Black professionals and entrepreneurs to Connect, Collaborate, and build Communities to Capitalize on the enormous value and opportunities available to us when we expand our network. Relationships are the foundational core of a successful life and career. Today’s event will end soon, but cultivating valuable relationships among those in attendance is available to you right now. Please seize the moment!

Warm regards,

FOUNDER’S MESSAGE

Hutch Founder Chief Servant Officer

Jerome Hutchinson, Jr.

Exhibiting Her Super Powers

ABOUT DR. YVETTE MAUREEN

As a Scholar and Business Consultant, I help students and busy professionals quickly learn valuable business principles allowing them to launch their ideas faster and compete better without having to spend a lot of time and money.

As a Wellness Coach and Entrepreneur, I support ambitious women by providing a community and a hub of wellness resources allowing them to prioritize themselves and their health without feeling burnout or like they've neglected other responsibilities.

dryvettemaureen.com theAMARAwoman.com

SCHOLAR � ADVISOR � LEADER AUTHOR � VISIONARY � HOST SPEAKER � PROFESSOR WELLNESS COACH

HONOREES

Highly accomplished Black executives, and professionals, and entrepreneurs who are respected for their excellence and leadership.

Mark Shim

Rashad D. Thomas

Maurice L. Woods

Brandon Azuka DIBIA Okpalobi

William C. McCormick, MBA

Russell Benford Vedner Guerrier, MBA

Rodney W. Jacobs, Jr. J.D., M.P.A., M.P.H.

Stephanie Collier Jones

Veleke´ Brown

Denise Jordan

Sandra McLean Timothy Merriman, Jr.

Honorable Jackie Powell

Juliet Murphy Roulhac

Evan A. Shields

HONOREE 2023

SUPERPOWER

Empathy I am an introvert.

SOMETHING MOST DO NOT KNOW ABOUT ME

Russell Benford

Vice President Government Relations, Americas Royal Caribbean Group

Russell Benford is a highly respected leader who has served in significant roles in the public and private sector. He has also distinguished himself for years in community and civic affairs. In his current role with Royal Caribbean, his professional footprint and responsibilities has expanded internationally into the Caribbean.

Russell Benford currently serves as Vice President of Government Relations, Americas, for Royal Caribbean Group. Russell is responsible for the Group’s government relations throughout North, Central, and South America and the Caribbean.

Russell’s professional experience includes more than 20 years in government. Most recently, he served as Deputy Mayor of Miami- Dade County. During his six-year tenure, he had direct oversight of Police, Fire Rescue, Corrections and Rehabilitation, Medical Examiner, Public Housing and Community Development, Community Action and Human Services, and Juvenile Services.

Before his role at Miami-Dade County, Russell held several leadership roles within Florida, including City Manager of the City of North Miami and City Administrator of the City of West Park. Mr. Benford also served as Village Manager of Hawthorn Woods, Illinois.

Russell is actively involved in community organizations, serving on the Board of Directors of the Jessie Trice Community Health System Foundation, FIU Center for Leadership, Achieve Miami, and the Bahamas Feeding Network. He is also a member of the Orange Bowl Committee, 100 Black Men of South Florida, and the 5,000 Role Models of Excellence Project.

Alfred Young, my great grandfather

PERSON(S) YOU WOULD MOST LIKE TO MEET AWARDS

ORGANIZATIONS

He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Oberlin College and a Master’s degree in Public Affairs from the University of Texas at Austin, where he concentrated on Public Administration and Management. He was named a Woodrow Wilson Public Policy and International Studies Fellow.

WORDS THAT INSPIRE ME:

“Have a vision of excellence, a dream of success, and work like hell.”

-Dr. Samuel DuBois Cook

Woodrow Wilson Public Policy and Intl. Studies Fellow, Miami-Dade County Homeless Trust Change Maker Award

Jessie Trice Comm. Health System Foundation, Board of Directors, FIU Center for Leadership, Advisory Board, Orange Bowl Committee, Member

Congratulates all of tonight’s honorees for your outstanding accomplishments and leadership.

SAVE THE DATE

06.06.23

Health Foundation of South Florida proudly supports the ICABA World Network.

HONOREE 2023

SUPERPOWER

Veleke’ Brown

President & CEO E-RoadMap Corporation

Inspired by fantastic business mentors, she quickly developed a passion for personal self-development and empowering others to succeed. This resolve stuck with her, leading to the 2007 idea launch of a nonprofit organization, E-RoadMap, with an intent to have an active role in shaping the minds of youth.

E-RoadMap Corporation (ERM) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization devoted to enriching and empowering young minds to build sustainable and community-based solutions that work to eradicate food deserts in low-income and marginalized communities.

E-RoadMap has four focus areas as we strive to improve various suppression conditions. Entrepreneurship- youth entrepreneurship boot camps teach youth how to make a profit from their passion; Etiquette- etiquette academies teach a myriad of skills from table setting, conversation starters, proper posture, and more; Financial literacy- financial courses created to teach youth how to understand best what to do with a dollar, household budgets, digital currency, and debt; Health and Wellness- our flagship initiative Operation No Food Gap works to create sustainable solutions to help eradicate food deserts in marginalized communities.

SOMETHING MOST DO NOT KNOW ABOUT ME

PERSON(S) YOU WOULD MOST LIKE TO MEET AWARDS

ORGANIZATIONS

Through Veleke’s dedication and relentless pursuit to succeed, ERM’s work today catalyzes viable change that has driven individuals to become self-reliant, own and elevate their situation, develop a healthy relationship with food, and share learned knowledge with their children and others. ERM takes a transformative approach to address food inequality and insecurity issues for BIPOC throughout Florida.

Veleke’s work centers around philosophies, principles, and practice. These pillars govern her approach as she strives to create capable, confident, compassionate youth and communities working together using skills to solve problems not just for themselves but for the world.

WORDS THAT INSPIRE ME:

“Service to many leads to greatness ”

-Jim Rohn

Vision casting. I enjoy watching sci-fi and period pieces on TV.

Great-great maternal grandmother-Dora Staton and Oprah Winfrey

Operation No Food Gap I was identified as a trailblazer for innovative approaches to address food insecurities in PBC.

Black Chamber Of Comm. Palm Beach County, Member, Advancing The Mission (Diversity and Inclusion) PBC, Member, Hunger Relief Task Force PBC, Member

MEMORIAL HEALTHCARE SYSTEM

Vedner

Vedner Guerrier, MBA

Chief Executive Officer, Memorial Hospital West Memorial Healthcare System

Vedner Guerrier is Chief Executive Officer for Memorial Hospital West, one of six hospitals of the Memorial Healthcare System in Hollywood, Florida. He has 24 years of experience working in healthcare as a caregiver and administrator. He also served as the Chief Executive Officer for Memorial Hospital Miramar. Before his CEO role, he served as the Vice President of Oncology Services at the Memorial Healthcare System, where he was the administrative lead for the Quality Oncology Practice Initiative (QOPI) at the Memorial Cancer Institute.

Mr. Guerrier applies his clinical knowledge to help guide patient-centered care to an array of process improvements and quality care initiatives. Mr. Guerrier has led various process improvement projects in Medical Oncology focused on reducing oncology patients’ emergency room visits, patient triaging, and chemotherapy patient flow improvement. He has completed projects in Radiation Oncology centered on patient safety, treatment delivery, and patient satisfaction.

HONOREE 2023

SUPERPOWER

SOMETHING MOST DO NOT KNOW ABOUT ME

PERSON(S) YOU WOULD MOST LIKE TO MEET AWARDS ORGANIZATIONS

Mr. Guerrier is experienced in directing multidisciplinary teams using Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to achieve collaborative resolution for various quality patient care initiatives. He is a board member and coach for the Quality Training Program in the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO). Through ASCO, Mr. Guerrier coaches physicians nationally and internationally to use Lean Six Sigma methodologies to promote collaboration and improve quality and patient care.

Mr. Guerrier received a Master of Business Administration in Healthcare from Florida International University—a Bachelor of Applied Science in Supervision and Management from Broward College. Certifications include Registered Radiation Therapist (RT. T) from The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists and Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (LSSBB) from Florida International University.

WORDS THAT INSPIRE ME:

“To lead yourself, use your head; to lead others, use your heart. Always touch a person’s heart before you ask him for a hand.”

-John. C. Maxwell

The ability to connect with others, active listening, and show respect to all I meet.

I am a history geek and enjoy traveling to see the many places I have studied about and connecting with the past by enjoying historical sites.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Dr. W. Edwards DemingAmerican Engineer and leader in developing Process Improvement and Quality Development.

Power Leaders in Healthcare - South Florida Business Journal Quality Training Program Board MemberAmerican Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Board Chair

American Diabetes Association, Board Chair, American Society of Clinical Oncology, Volunteer, American College of Healthcare Executives, Member

Executive Director, Captain Company Commander City of Miami Civilian Investigative Panel United States Army Reserve

Rodney Jacobs is a City Executive and Social Catalyst. He is the Assistant Director of the City of Miami Civilian Investigative Panel, a police oversight department in the City of Miami, which purpose is to conduct independent Investigations of police officers involved in misconduct. Rodney completed his B.A. from Hiram College and a master’s degree in Public Health and Public Administration from the University of Miami. He earned his Law Degree from the University of Dayton School of Law. He recently began his academic teaching career as a lecturer and adjunct professor at the Florida International University (FIU), Steven J. Green School of International & Public Affairs, teaching courses in Criminal Justice, Law, and Public Administration.

HONOREE 2023

SUPERPOWER SOMETHING MOST DO NOT KNOW ABOUT ME

PERSON(S) YOU WOULD MOST LIKE TO MEET AWARDS ORGANIZATIONS

WORDS THAT INSPIRE ME:

“I have no fear, for God is with me, I was born for this.”

-Joan of

Arc

Rodney is formally a Military Intelligence Officer for the United States Army Reserve and currently a Captain Company Commander for the Headquarters and Headquarters Company Unit of the 436 CA BN. In the United States Army Reserve, he advises foreign and domestic key leaders on government, economics, safety, health, and social remedies/policies. He serves on the executive board as Vice Chair of Engage Miami, promoting civic leadership and engagement while supporting youth civic training for personal and professional development. Also, he efficiently mobilizes resources for innovation and positive change within the legal, health, and policing profession through his leadership positions with the United Way of Miami and Board Member for the National Association of Civilian Oversight of Law Enforcement (NACOLE). Also, with his dynamic skills and versatile understanding of the legal landscape, he is a noted speaker and columnist for multiple organizations on policing, law, health, and society throughout the country. He enjoys playing tennis and time at the gym. His most significant accomplishment has been marrying his wife Ramona and fathering his son Regin.

Rodney W. Jacobs, Jr. J.D., M.P.A., M.P.H.

My uncanny ability to remain optimistic in the face of adversity.

I grew up in a military family. I attended 12 schools before I graduated High School. I can’t swim, and it took hard work to learn how to read at grade level while in school.

Jesus of Nazareth, Socrates, Cleopatra, Shaka Zulu, Harriet Tubman, Olaudah Equiano, James Baldwin, Nelson Mandela, Albert Einstein

Getting into and graduating from Stanford, Being accepted to Sponsors for Educational Opportunities (SEO) Investment Banking Program”.

Engage Miami, Vice Chairman, United Way of Miami-Dade County, Advisory Board, Nat’l Assoc. of Civilian Oversight of Law Enforcement (NACOLE), Board of Directors.

ORGANIZATIONS OF THE YEAR

Black professional and entrepreneurial organizations, programs, and resources that provide outstanding leadership and deliver programs and initiatives with excellence and positive impact.

Black Professional Organization of the Year

BROWARD COUNTY 2022

The National Sales Network has an extensive legacy of advocacy, support and programs to enhance the career development and growth for Black sales professionals.

Black Professional Organization of the Year

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY 2022

The Miami-Dade County Black Advisory Board’s Black World Guide is a unique and effective resource promoting programs, events and activities throughout Miami-Dade County.

Black Professional Organization of the Year

PALM BEACH COUNTY 2022

The T. Leroy Jefferson Medical Society is an exemplary Black professional organization advancing the professional growth of Black healthcare professionals. Its advocacy to address Black healthcare disparates, advance awareness education opportunities and provide scholarships is outstanding.

VANGUARD AWARD HONOREES

Companies and organizations that demonstrate exemplary support for Black professionals and entrepreneurs and the Black community in large.

Ally and Advocate of the Year 2022

Comcast has a legacy of investments in providing grants and financing for Black businesses, and resources to enhance ongoing business operations. Their Comcast Rise program awarded millions of dollars in grants nationwide to support Blackowned businesses.

Ally and Advocate of the Year 2022

The foundation funds and spearheads numerous initiatives such as their Black Health Summit to address disparities and improve the delivery of healthcare in the Black community. Additionally, their funding for the South Florida Anchor Alliance could be a game changer in wealth creation for the Black Community.

Ally and Advocate of the Year 2022

The Knight Foundation provides million of dollars in grants annually that benefit Black communities that enhance business creation and growth as well as support for Blacks in the arts, education and journalism.

COLLABORATIONS

We must change the we want to see

Accomplished Black professionals and entrepreneurs building relationships, sharing information and opportunities to succeed, lead and prosper.

COMMUNITY

Connections, collaborations, and community are the new Black currency. A community of committed, and accomplished Black professionals and entrepreneurs collaborating to succeed, lead and prosper is powerful!

Nikki Lanier Racial Equity Advisory Thought Leader & Consultant Louisville, KY

ICABA® is the New Black Currency

JOIN ICABA

HONOREE 2023

SUPERPOWER

Ability to get it done, no matter what. Ability to solve some of the most complex challenges in my industry with a sense of clarity and vision.

SOMETHING MOST DO NOT KNOW ABOUT ME

I’m writing a book about fears I’ve faced over my lifetime.

PERSON(S) YOU WOULD MOST LIKE TO MEET AWARDS ORGANIZATIONS

Stephanie Collier Jones

President, Technology Business Unit Convey Health Solutions

Stephanie Jones, a native of Miami and a graduate of Miami Jackson Senior High (Class of 1986), is a uniquely qualified, goal-oriented executive with over 30 years of healthcare experience. Following graduation from Nova Southeastern University in 1992, Stephanie immediately began her career in healthcare, working as an Account Manager and an Underwriter for Cigna.

Stephanie quickly progressed her career, moving up the ranks into leadership roles for major healthcare organizations, including Vista Health Plan, Coventry Healthcare, and UnitedHealth Group. Stephanie joined Convey Health Solutions as the head of its newly formed Managed Care business. She progressively assumed more responsibility over the years, now serving as President of the Advanced Plan Administration operating unit.

As President, Stephanie has P&L accountability for approximately 20% of the Company’s $400 million in annual revenue, management of strategic client relationships, and operating responsibility for over 1,500 employees in the US and the Philippines. Stephanie has a proven know-how for gaining client trust through consistent execution, customer service, operational execution, and a solutions-based approach to program oversight. She can add impactful value to the organizations and clients she serves by building relationships and delivering results. Stephanie is a strong leader and developer of global operating teams in the US and the Philippines. Stephanie is a dynamic and fast-paced leader, strong negotiator of complex technology and services contracts, change agent, and trusted advisor to internal partners and clients. One of Stephanie’s strongest attributes is her ability to make tough decisions without compromising relationships.

Stephanie has been married to her college sweetheart, Morshee, for 30 years, and they have two children, Mikel and Miles, who live in Los Angeles. Stephanie and Morshee are active philanthropists and give to several local charities. Stephanie is on the Board of Directors for Miami-based Girl Power Rocks and Chairperson of Fundraising and Sustainability.

WORDS THAT INSPIRE ME:

“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I took the road less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.”

-Robert Frost

Michelle Obama

Legacy Magazine’s South Florida’s Most Influential and Prominent Black Women of 2022 Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Woman of the Year 2022

Girl Power Rocks, Board of Directors, Miami Dade Chamber of Commerce, Member, Women Business Leaders Foundation (WBL), Member

Denise Jordan

Executive Vice President

Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce

HONOREE 2023

SUPERPOWER

Denise Jordan is THE Business Bridge Builder. She is a Business Networking Consultant and Speaker who is transformative at “Hello.” Known as a convincing communicator and collaborator, her expertise thrives in Business 2 Business partnerships, Senior Business Strategy, Operations, Sales Team Strategy, and Executive Organizational Development.

Denise has established herself as a multi-faceted connector who builds bridges between business leaders to not only benefit the bottom line but impact the community they serve.

She has done so in part by developing successful membership growth strategies for the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce by highlighting their success stories. Her “Show” me your work” spirit resonates with clients who are looking to reach new audiences but are unknown in the community.

Denise Jordan’s forward-thinking has allowed her to spearhead revenue growth for the March of Dimes, marketing, and community outreach for the American Parkinson’s Association, as well as implement innovative business development for Kaplan University, generating 1.1 million dollars in student enrollments.

SOMETHING

AWARDS ORGANIZATIONS

A graduate of the State University of New York, Denise also has a proven ability to develop small business resiliency programs, offer policy advisory on emerging technology, help female business owners scale, and produce advocacy efforts for racial equity and workforce development.

On multiple Boards, including the Florida Atlantic University and the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association, Jordan was the recipient of the 2022 Prestigious Women Awards for the South Florida Business and Wealth Magazine.

These accolades and abilities merely scrape the surface of the in-depth possibilities entrenched in Denise Jordan.

WORDS THAT INSPIRE ME:

“The ultimate measure of a person is not where they stand in moments of comfort and convenience, but where one stands at times of challenge and controversy.”

-Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

The ability to hold the audience’s attention while telling compelling stories.

I’m a former jazz vocalist who performed in many nightclubs in New York City.

Maya Angelou and Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia and Nobel Peace Prize winner.

South Florida Business and Wealth: Women of the Year Award

FAU, Board of Directors, Career Source Broward, Advisory Board, Florida Restaurant Lodging Association, Board of Directors

WE BELIEVE IN

—

freedom of expression and in the values expressed in the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States.

— an informed citizenry as essential for a representative democracy to function effectively.

— engaged, equitable and inclusive communities.

SUPERPOWER

William C. McCormick, MBA

Founder & CEO Americlaims Billing, Inc

SOMETHING MOST DO NOT KNOW ABOUT ME

McCormick is recognized across the country for his high standards and excellent work in revenue cycle management and claim adjudication efficiency. He has developed and enhanced a robust set of core competencies in various areas of healthcare. He has consistently demonstrated proven expertise in implementing systems, sales, marketing, controls, and procedures to ensure efficient and ethical operations for healthcare systems.

Cullen Medical Supplies became a full-service disposable medical supply and equipment company that grew into a recognized supplier of quality medical products and services throughout south Florida.

Using a vertical integration model, McCormick formed and developed Cullen Home Health Pharmacy, a specialized home delivery pharmaceutical service company. Within three years, he grew that company into one of the most respected and successful home delivery companies of I.V. Medications and Prescription Drugs, serving monthly over 4,000 patients diagnosed with Cancer and HIV/AIDS in south Florida. He’s a well-respected philanthropist and has given his time and money to various charitable efforts.

PERSON(S) YOU WOULD MOST LIKE TO MEET AWARDS ORGANIZATIONS

speaking.

WORDS THAT INSPIRE ME:

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

-Proverbs 3:5-6

He was unanimously selected as Chairman of the Board of Trustees for Florida Memorial University. He’s the immediate past president of the Fort Lauderdale Branch NAACP, the recipient of numerous professional and community service awards, including the Florida Small Business of the Year Entrepreneurship Award, the NAACP Civil Rights Award, the Florida Memorial University Alumni Hall of Fame Award, and many others. McCormick earned his MBA from Colorado Technical University with a specialization in Healthcare Administration, the father of one daughter and husband of 30 years. He enjoys golf, reading, traveling, and

William Cullen McCormick, Jr., is a 30-year pharmaceutical and healthcare executive founder and Chief Executive Officer of Americlaims Billing, Inc.

public

My superpower is my work ethic, creativity, and drive to succeed.

I was the starting catcher on the FMU Baseball team from (1983-1987), Then signed with the Chicago Whitesox Gulf Coast League for a pro baseball tryout.

Jesse Owens, Muhammad Ali, Jackie Robinson & Benjamin O. Davis Sr.

NAACP Branch President Award, FMU Alumni Hall of Fame Award, Friends of African American Research Library & Cultural Center Community Activist Award

Board Chair, Florida Memorial University Board of Trustees, Member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., Member, Champion Charity Inc. Board of Directors

Leadership. Influence. Inspiration.

The Baptist Health West Kendall Baptist Hospital family warmly congratulates Vice President, Chief Nursing Officer Sandra McLean, recognized among Black America’s Best Executives and Professionals in South Florida.

We appreciate everything you do to bring excellent care to our western Miami- Dade community.

BaptistHealth.net/WestKendallBaptistHospital

Sandra McLean

Vice President & Chief Nursing Officer West Kendall Baptist Hospital Baptist Health South Florida

Sandra McLean is currently the Chief Nursing Officer for West Kendall Baptist Hospital (WKBH). Sandra joined WKBH in 2012 as Assistant Vice President of Nursing. She joined Baptist Health South Florida (BHSF) in 2004. In her current role, she is accountable for nursing practice across WKBH, delivery of care in the inpatient setting, capacity management, evidence-based practice, quality initiatives, performance improvement, and patient experience.

Sandra is accountable for nursing practice across WKBH, developing and implementing the strategic goals for nursing, design, implementation, and continuous improvement of patient care, employing evidence-based practice, and recommending strategies to improve services and drive the accomplishment of established goals. Sandra’s diverse practice experience serves her well as an advocate for patients, nurses, and the profession. Sandra uses her leadership mindset and resources to build a consistent experience for patients, physicians, and staff.

HONOREE 2023

SUPERPOWER

SOMETHING MOST DO NOT KNOW ABOUT ME

PERSON(S) YOU WOULD MOST LIKE TO MEET

AWARDS ORGANIZATIONS

Sandra has presented at local and national organizations, including the Advisory board and Magnet, on creating and sustaining an excellent nursing culture. She is the recipient of numerous recognition and awards, including South Florida’s Most Powerful & Influential Black Leaders of 2019 and the Black Achievers of Excellence Award. She is a Lean Six Sigma black belt and has led multiple process improvement initiatives to maintain outstanding quality outcomes.

Sandra has three children and a granddaughter. She is a member and active participant in local, regional, and national nursing organizations. She is committed to paying forward by adopting and supporting underprivileged families.

Sandra received her undergraduate Nursing degree at the University of the West Indies, Kingston, Jamaica. She holds a Master’s in Science in Nursing and a Master’s in Science in Health Service Administration from the University of St Francis. She is a certified nurse executive.

WORDS THAT INSPIRE ME:

“Leadership is not about being in charge. Leadership is about taking care of those in your charge.”

-Simon Sinek

My FAITH. Self-Awareness and composure to adapt to people and situations genuinely.

I have neurogenic stuttering.

Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King, Mother Teresa.

Resuscitative Quality Improvement Program Partners Lighthouse Award for pioneering clinical excellence.

BHSF Federal Credit Union, Board of Directors, Florida Organization of Nurse Executives, Member, American Youth Soccer Organization, Volunteer

HONOREE 2023

SUPERPOWER

Timothy Merriman, Jr.

Partner, Investment Brokerage

NAI Miami Fort Lauderdale

With over 15 years of Commercial Real Estate experience, Mr. Merriman has become a leader in the commercial real estate industry, specializing in the sale of investment real estate throughout the United States. He is currently a member of the global organization of the Real Estate Executive Council (REEC) and a sitting member of the Florida International University Real Estate Advisory Council

Due to his passion for real estate, Mr. Merriman has also made a commitment to representing his clients to the fullest by obtaining a Masters of Business Administration with a specification in Real Estate Development. Mr. Merriman now focuses his career on representing commercial real estate sellers.

Mr. Merriman joined NAI Miami in 2008 because of its reputation for excellence and customer satisfaction. In 2021 he obtained and ownership interest by becoming one of the newest partners with the firm. Mr. Merriman believes his clients benefit from the firm’s tenacity to be the best, together with his ability to achieve adequate sales prices that other brokerages simply could not deliver.

Mr. Merriman holds a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Shaw University (Raleigh, NC) and a Master’s in Business Administration from NOVA Southeastern University.

SOMETHING MOST DO NOT KNOW ABOUT ME

PERSON(S) YOU WOULD MOST LIKE TO MEET AWARDS ORGANIZATIONS

He is an active member of many organizations; the South Florida Chapter of the National Black MBA Association (Board Member), The South Florida Chapter of the Antique Automobile Club of America (Board Member), The South Florida Chapter of the Rolls Royce Owner’s Club (Member), NAI Global Diversity Council (Member), Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce Member), Real Estate Executive Council (REEC), Broward County Boys and Girls Club (Volunteer), St. Matthew Masonic Lodge, PHA #670, (Past Master’s degree). He is a subject matter expert in real estate sales, financing and development and frequently speaks to organizations and

WORDS THAT INSPIRE ME:

“Attract What You Expect. Reflect on What You Desire. Become What You Respect. Mirror What You Admire.”

I received a day in my honor from my hometown in 2013 for saving an elderly woman’s life. BB

NAI Miami - Fort Lauderdale Broker of the Year 2013 & 2015, South Florida Business Journal Diversity Equity and Inclusion Award 2022

FIU- Hollo School of Real Estate, Advisory Board, Broward County Boys and Girl’s Club, Volunteer, REEC (Real Estate Executive Council), Member

Brandon Azuka DIBIA Okpalobi

CEO, Founder & President DIBIA Athletic, Dibia DREAM & Siyanse LLC

Brandon Okpalobi is a Nigerian-American former athlete turned STEM educator, youth advocate, social entrepreneur, and host; based in Miami, Florida, and native to New Orleans, Louisiana.

He recognized in 2011 the need to connect early education, after-school programming, and mentorship to improve grades and reduce “risky” behavior. As a response to the need,

He created DIBIA Athletic combining sport and academic education to prepare student-athletes in Bermuda, Miami, and New Orleans for advanced levels of play and to secure scholarship funding.

To continue fostering youth, he founded Dibia DREAMi in 2014 to spark change through STEM for school-age children who may not have otherwise been exposed to or felt confident enough to participate in the sciences. Since its inception, Dibia DREAM has reached over 30,000 youth in person in 4 states and virtually in 32 states and 12 countries.

HONOREE 2023

SUPERPOWER

PERSON(S) YOU WOULD MOST LIKE TO MEET AWARDS

Brandon continues to invest in STEM education and inspire youth to connect the dots between classroom and STEM careers with his new company Siyanse, which provides product services and activities designed by experts and delivered directly to the homes of toddlers through adolescent-age students.

His commitment to youth and impact has earned him recognition on Forbes Next 1000 List, Black Enterprise Modern Man, and the Florida International University Emerging Leader award. Brandon’s efforts over the past decade garnered attention nationally from President Obama’s Council on Fitness, AT&T, and Discovery Education, where he hosts HandsOn STEM and engages over 50,000 youth. Additionally, he is an Orange Bowl committee member and Miami Foundation’s Miami Fellows Class IX.

WORDS THAT INSPIRE ME:

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.”

-Nelson Mandela

I was cast for Survivor and beat Sir Lewis Hamilton in a golf challenge.

Maternal grandmother - Barack Obama - King Mansa Musa

2021 Forbes Next 1000, Forbes Magazine; 2022 Exceptional Small Business of the Year, Dibia DREAM, National Society of Black Engineers.

100 Black Men of South Florida, Member, Orange Bowl Committee, Member

Honorable Jackie Powell

County Court Judge 17th Judicial Circuit

Judge Jackie Powell was elected to the Broward County Court Bench in 2018. She currently serves in the county civil division. Judge Powell earned a Bachelor’s Degree in English from Florida Atlantic University and Juris Doctorate from Nova Southeastern Law Center.

Before law school, Judge Powell worked as a paralegal with a local law firm. She was encouraged by her employers, attorneys Barbara Heyer-Gold and now retired Judge Marc H. Gold, to enroll in law school. At that time, married with two minor children, she enrolled in law school full-time while working part-time. Judge Powell has been a member of the Florida Bar for 20 years. Judge Powell practiced with the Broward County Public Defender’s Office for almost seven years, serving as a division attorney and later as a supervising attorney.

After leaving the Public Defender’s Office, Judge Powell joined a private civil firm where she served as supervising litigation attorney representing major financial institutions. She subsequently started her own firm representing clients in family law matters.

HONOREE 2023

SUPERPOWER

SOMETHING

MOST DO NOT KNOW ABOUT ME

PERSON(S) YOU WOULD MOST LIKE TO MEET AWARDS

ORGANIZATIONS

Outside of the legal arena, Judge Powell enjoys mentoring young people and has done that for over 20 years through her local church and other community organizations. She currently serves as a board member for Voices for the Children of Broward County, an organization that supports children in foster care. She is also a monthly volunteer empowering students at Dillard High School through the My Future Is Now program.

Judge Powell has been recognized numerous times for her outstanding community involvement. Most recently, she received the Zebedee Wright Judiciary award from the T.J. Reddick Bar Association for 2022.

Rising to this level has been no easy feat for Judge Powell, but with drive and determination, she believes anything is possible.

WORDS THAT INSPIRE ME:

“For I know the plans I have for you says the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans, to give you hope and a future.”

-Jeremiah 29:11

Connecting with all different types of people. Teaching complex topics in a way that anyone can understand. My God-given voice.

I am an ordained minister and spent many years being an associate pastor in my local church.

Michelle Obama 2022, Zebedee Wright Award from the TJ Reddick Bar Association for Judicial Excellence.

Voices for the Children of Broward County, Board of Directors, Inns of Court of Broward County, Advisory Board, Gateway Church, Fort Lauderdale, Member

Juliet RoulhacMurphy

Director - Corporate Philanthropy and Community Engagement Florida Power & Light Company

Juliet Murphy Roulhac is the Director for Corporate Philanthropy and Community Engagement for Florida Power & Light Company. This Fortune 200 company is the largest electric utility in the state and one of the largest electric utility providers of clean energy in the country.

Ms. Roulhac manages NextEra Energy’s national Foundation and Florida Power & Light Company’s community engagement in Florida - she develops giving and engagement strategies for FPL and NextEra. Her role also includes oversight of FPL’s Manatee Lagoon, an educational eco-center dedicated to educating the public about manatees and Lake Worth Lagoon. In her prior role, she managed External Affairs for Broward and Southwest Florida. She started with the company in 1999 and practiced in the General Counsel’s Department prior to External Affairs. She is a licensed attorney with over twenty-five years of complex business litigation and appellate experience.

HONOREE 2023

SUPERPOWER

SOMETHING MOST DO NOT KNOW ABOUT ME

PERSON(S) YOU WOULD MOST LIKE TO MEET

AWARDS ORGANIZATIONS

Ms. Roulhac is the Chair of the Broward Workshop and the Chair of the Community Foundation of Broward, Vice Chair for the NSU Medical Executive Leadership Council, Secretary/ Treasurer of the Friends of Manatee Lagoon, and serves on the Baptist Hospital BOH/BHE board. She also serves as a CoChair of Prosperity Partnership and a former Chair and current member of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Alliance’s board. She is an active member of local voluntary bar associations and previously served on the statewide Florida Bar Board of Governors, and Past-Chair of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce.

Ms. Roulhac holds BA and Juris Doctor degrees from the University of Florida, is a member of Florida Blue Key, and previously served a 5-year term as a gubernatorial appointee on the Board of Trustees. She has resided in the South Florida area for over 35 years.

WORDS THAT INSPIRE ME:

“Be certain that you do not die without having done something wonderful for humanity.”

-Maya Angelou

Emotional Intelligence.

I used to be a voice actor for Colgate Toothpaste radio commercials. Mahatma Gandhi, Barack, and Michelle Obama.

Getting into and graduating from Stanford, Being accepted to Sponsors for Educational Opportunities (SEO) Investment Banking Program”.

Chair, Broward Workshop, Chair, Community Foundation of Broward, Co-Chair, Prosperity Partnership

HONOREE 2023

SUPERPOWER

Evan A. Shields

Founder & CEO Indelible Capital Partners

Evan is the Founder, CEO & Managing Partner of Indelible Capital Partners, an impact-driven real estate private equity firm proudly based in Miami, Florida. IndeliCap’s on a mission to invest $1 Billion in the next decade in real estate with an indelible impact on our world.

Evan is a business leader, educator, and public servant who’s dedicated his life to advancing economic opportunity for under invested communities. As an executive, he has led the investment of more than $4.0 Billion in institutional, commercial real estate assets under management (AUM) across every major property type and 30 U.S. metro areas. His work, specifically in affordable housing, has helped house more than 22,000 low-income seniors and families across 16 U.S. states.

Before founding IndeliCap, Evan served as COO for a Miamibased middle-market workforce housing developer. He has also held executive leadership roles in institutional capital markets, investor relations, and acquisitions with New York- and Miamibased firms, including BridgeInvest, a leading institutional real estate debt fund, R4 Capital, one of the U.S.’ top affordable housing investors, and PGIM Real Estate, the global real estate business of Prudential.

Evan graduated from the University of Virginia, where he completed a distinguished major in Political & Social Thought. After college, Evan began his career as a high school math teacher with Teach For America. He earned an MBA with a full-tuition scholarship from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - Kenan-Flagler Business School.

SOMETHING MOST DO NOT KNOW ABOUT ME

PERSON(S) YOU WOULD MOST LIKE TO MEET AWARDS ORGANIZATIONS

Evan resides in North Miami with his wife, Dr. Adolphia LautureShields, an OB-GYN, and his infant daughter, Josephine. He serves on the boards of Miami’s Next Leaders, Teach For America MiamiDade, the North Miami Chamber of Commerce, and the City of North Miami’s Affordable Housing Advisory Commission and Board of Adjustment.

WORDS THAT INSPIRE ME:

“Faith is taking the first step, even when you don’t see the whole staircase.”

-Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Having the right mix of EQ and IQ to win friends and unlock value in every opportunity!

I was a semi-pro musician. I am a classically-trained vocalist, jazz-trained guitarist, and proficient in drums, bass, and percussion, and I know my way around a piano.

Abraham Lincoln

Becoming a father in November 2022 to my daughter Josephine Kokorose “Koko” Shields

North Miami Affordable Housing Advisory Commission, Board Chair/President, Teach for America Miami-Dade, Board of Directors

Mark Shim

Senior Vice President and Leader Business Banking Truist

Mark Shim has over 20 years of banking leadership and management experience. He currently serves as Senior Vice President & Leader for Business Banking at Truist, South Florida. In 2022, Mark was recognized for leading the top-performing commercial banking team for Truist.

In 2017, Shim was named the BB&T Business Banking Leader in the Commercial Community Bank division for South Florida with his team of over 10 commercial lenders that are responsible for a portfolio of about 2,000 commercial clients.

Prior to his role in Business Banking, Shim led the retail team at BB&T in Palm Beach and Broward County as Retail and Small Business Manager, which included over 30 branches with more than 180 teammates.

HONOREE 2023

SUPERPOWER

SOMETHING MOST DO NOT KNOW ABOUT ME

PERSON(S) YOU WOULD MOST LIKE TO MEET AWARDS ORGANIZATIONS

He joined BB&T (now Truist) in 2012 as the Sales and Service Leader for Palm Beach County and the Treasure Coast. He then served as the @Work Group manager for BB&T in South Florida, where he and his team focused on new client acquisition while strengthening relationships with small business clients and prospects.

Prior to BB&T, Shim served as Regional Manager at Bank Atlantic for their Palm Beach and Treasure Coast region.

Passionate about community involvement, Shim currently serves on the board of the Boys and Girls Club of Palm Beach and the Greater Ft. Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce. He’s also a member of Caribbean American for Community Involvement (CAFCI).

Shim also serves on the advisory board for 21st Century, an organization that provides funding for non-profit and charitable organizations.

Shim has been married for twenty-two years to his wife Marsha and they have 2 children, Mark and Morgan. A dedicated family man, Shim enjoys traveling and spending time with his family.

Shim obtained his undergraduate degree in finance from Florida Atlantic University in 1999.

WORDS THAT INSPIRE ME:

“What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others.”

-Nelson Mandela

Having a core sense of purpose and identity that allows me to connect with people in a way that increases my influence with them.

I am an introvert.

Bob Marley

Recognized by Caribbean American for Community Involvement (CAFCI), for continuously supporting the organization’s efforts.

Caribbean American for Community Involvement (CAFCI)

Rashad D. Thomas

Regional Director, External & Legislative Affairs AT&T

Rashad D. Thomas is the Regional Director for AT&T Florida, overseeing local and government relationships in Miami-Dade and parts of Broward County. Before his new role at AT&T, he worked on Strategic Partnerships and Community Relations for PortMiami, the busiest port in the world. He was also the Assistant to Deputy Mayor Maurice Kemp in the Office of Mayor Carlos Gimenez. In this role, he was responsible for the COVID-19 Response Team, where he addressed all matters regarding essential and non-essential businesses, the Senior Meals Program, and New Normal Tactics related to the reopening of Miami-Dade County.

HONOREE 2023

SUPERPOWER

My superpower is being able to connect with anyone, no matter their age, gender, or ethnicity. I would consider myself the ultimate people person.

SOMETHING MOST DO NOT KNOW ABOUT ME

PERSON(S) YOU WOULD MOST LIKE TO MEET AWARDS ORGANIZATIONS

Mr. Thomas is a Bethune-Cookman University graduate and attended Harvard Business School -Young American Leaders Program. He also served in various capacities in MiamiDade County government for 18 years. He began his career as a Community Organizer and has held several positions in Miami-Dade County government, where he was responsible for policy, legislative affairs, special development projects, Community Action, Human Services, Homeless Trust, and Juvenile Services.

Before his return to the Mayor’s Office, Mr. Thomas served as the Vice President of Business Connect and Legacy Projects for the Miami Super Bowl Host Committee for Super Bowl LIV in 2020. Rashad is a: 2017 Legacy Magazine 40 Under 40 award recipient, 2017 Bethune-Cookman University 40 Under 40 award recipient, Class X Miami Fellow, 2019 Legacy Magazine Influential Leader in Business, 2018 and 2019 FIU Emerging Leader finalist, 2019 MiamiDade County Black Affairs Board: Man of Valor, Black Professionals Network 2020 Black Men in Excellence, and 2021 Black Affairs Advisory Board Community Pillar

A native Miamian, Rashad is married to Shannon and the father to three handsome boys.

WORDS THAT INSPIRE ME:

“We’re all born with two hands. One for helping yourself and the other for helping others”

I graduated from Daytona Beach Community College Police Academy and was in the process of being hired by the WPB Police Dept. before moving back to Miami.

Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, Barack Obama

2022 Harvard Business School Young American Leader, 2021 Miami-Dade County Black Affairs Advisory Board - Community Pillar

United Way of Miami, Board of Directors, 100 Black Men of South Florida, Board of Directors, Miami-Dade Economic and Advocacy Trust, Board of Directors

Maurice L. Woods

President & CEO Easterseals South Florida

Maurice has over twenty-five years of success in entrepreneurial, for-profit, and nonprofit organizations. Since 2021 has been the President & Chief Executive Officer for Easterseals South Florida. Before his current role, Maurice served as Chief Strategy & Operations Officer for Broward County Public Schools (BCPS). In this role, he was responsible for leading the strategic planning process, developing performance metrics, and executing operational plans to deliver against the strategic goals.

Previous experience included serving as the Program Director for the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship organization and President & Chief Executive Officer of Harvest Advisors, a Chicago-based management education firm specializing in capacity analysis, strategic planning, and business development activities for growth-oriented for-profit and nonprofit organizations. Maurice has served as Deputy-Chief Information Officer for the Chicago Public Schools (CPS) with responsibilities that included strategic planning, operations, business process improvement, and special project assignments.

HONOREE 2023

SUPERPOWER

Strong intuition.

SOMETHING MOST DO NOT KNOW ABOUT ME

I attended three (3) different high schools and three (3) different colleges.

PERSON(S) YOU WOULD MOST LIKE TO MEET AWARDS

ORGANIZATIONS

Before joining CPS, Maurice worked for a global consulting firm specializing in corporate and operations strategy for Fortune 500 companies across several industries. He also spent several years with a major Consumer Packaged Goods company working in various functional capacities, including Sales, Finance, and Strategic Planning.

Maurice is a Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management Executive Scholar in Nonprofit management who also earned a dual MBA in Strategy and Finance from the same institution. He has a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance and Economics from California State University-Sacramento.

Maurice serves on the board of nonprofit organizations, actively participates in professional organizations, and volunteers for various organizations related to the mentoring and coaching of innercity youth. He is an avid beginner golfer who enjoys tropical vacations, sporting events, bike rides, and listening to jazz with his wife and two daughters.

WORDS THAT INSPIRE ME:

“If God is for us, who can be against us?”

Nelson Mandela

Top 100 Visionaries in Education, Excellence in Leadership Award, Business Leader Award

Holy Cross Hospital, Board of Directors, Trustbridge Hospice, Board of Directors, The Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce, Member