use the techniques in their daily lives. That told me our young people are not unwilling to talk about mental health. They are waiting for trusted spaces where the conversation feels real.
Local government has a responsibility in this work. If we are serious about addressing the challenges facing our city, we have to be willing to look beyond judgment and seek understanding. It is easy to penalize people. It is harder to ask what happened, what went untreated, and what resources were missing.
One important resource is the Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network, Wayne County’s public behavioral health authority.
DWIHN exists to make sure every resident has access to mental health and substance use services, regardless of ability to pay. Detroiters can learn more at www. dwihn.org.
This summer, I am also honored to serve as honorary chair for Black Men’s Wellness Day Detroit on Saturday, July 18, 2026, from 7 a.m. to noon at Renaissance High School. The event will include a 5K run/ walk, free health screenings, wellness resources, community engagement, and access to valuable health and support services. We are encouraging volunteers, walking teams, vendors, and community partners to get involved because wellness has to be both visible and accessible.
A mentally healthier
Detroit is one where every resident can access quality mental health care regardless of income or neighborhood. It is a city that treats mental health with the same urgency and importance as physical health while investing in prevention, early intervention, and community-based support. Most importantly, it is a city where people feel connected to one another, supported during difficult times, and hopeful about what lies ahead.
If you are struggling, you are not alone. Do not just sit and hope things will change. Be an active player in your own transformation. For mental health and substance use resources, visit www.dwihn.org. If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal crisis, emotional distress, or needs immediate support, call or
The Jackson Home
family and daughter of Richie Jean Sherrod Jackson, she did not describe the home as a monument but as a living witness. Her voice returned again and again to the same question: “If the walls of the Jackson house could talk, what would they say?”
Her answers came from specificity born of memory.
“They would tell a story of our family,” she said. “A family that was committed to community. A family that was committed to education. A family that was committed to healthcare. All of the things that we hold dear as a society.”
Then she grounded the abstraction in lived experience.
“They would tell a story when I lived in this house with my parents, and they helped plan the Selma to Montgomery march. I stand here today, over 50 years later. And we are still on that journey.”
That journey, in her telling, never fully left the house. It simply expanded outward.
“We are still trying to protect democracy,” she said plainly.
And when she spoke about what visitors should take with them, her language shifted from memory to instruction. “When you leave this house and go back to your selected communities, try to make the world a better place. Touch others. Talk to people that are different, but that are alike.”
One line, repeated in slightly different form throughout her remarks, became the center of gravity for her entire message: “It is not about the I. It is about the we.”
That philosophy extended into how she described the house’s presence in Michigan. When people ask why the Jackson Home belongs in the Midwest, she pointed not to geography but to mission. Greenfield Village, she noted, was created by Henry Ford in 1929 to tell the story of America.
“Now this Jackson House is part of that story.”
The home, she said, now rests on “great soil” – a phrase that carried both literal and symbolic weight. It is rooted in Michigan, but its origins remain unmistakably in Selma.
Between those two points – origin and arrival – other voices filled in the
meaning of what had been moved.
Mayor Abdullah Hammoud of Dearborn spoke of responsibility as something passed down and actively practiced. He described walking through the house and encountering its final interpretive question: What will you do when you leave here?
He spoke as a father imagining how he would explain the home to his daughters. “We will respect this home,” he said, “and we will teach them to speak out, to organize and to continually fighting side by side with each and every single one of us.”
From Selma, Mayor Johnny Moss brought a kind of reflection shaped by distance and familiarity at once.
“Peace by peace, board by board,” he said, describing how the home had been dismantled in Alabama and rebuilt in Michigan.
Then came his framing of what that process represented: “Rights are really not lost all at once. They are often weakened piece by piece. Decision by decision.”
The implication hung over the ceremony without needing to be restated: preservation is not neutral. Neither is erosion.
The origin of the project itself was rooted in a moment of personal urgency. Mooradian recalled a phone call in February 2022 from Jawana Jackson. The question was direct: “Can you help save my family home?”
That call, they said, set in motion a four-year effort to relocate and interpret the house. When Mooradian first traveled to Selma, she met Jackson in person and received a handkerchief that belonged to her mother, Richie Jean Sherrod Jackson. It became a symbolic object carried into the opening as a reminder that
the story being told is also a story being entrusted.
When Jawana Jackson spoke again near the end of the ceremony, she returned to a memory that seemed to collapse time entirely.
“When I was only 4 years old, my Uncle Martin asked me to make him a promise,” she said. “I said okay, I promise. I was 4. I just wanted the cookies he was going to give me. But his words never left me.”
The promise was to touch someone with the work she would do, and to not forget the gravity of the things going on around her, just as the weight of the plans made at her mother’s dining room table still touches people more than 60 years later.
Then came the line that tied childhood instruction to public responsibility: “As you grow, you will touch others.”
Her final reflection turned toward the visitors about to enter the home. “The people that will walk through its door will come back and touch others,” she said. “And the light will continue to shine. In our darkest moments, the light always shines over hate. And peace will always win over war.”
What the Jackson Home carries into Michigan goes well beyond a physical structure of a house once central to the civil rights movement, but it’s the accumulated insistence that history is not finished with those who inherit it.
In Selma, it was a home where decisions were made that shaped national policy and protest alike. In Dearborn, it is a space asking what those decisions require now.
The house may be rebuilt, but the question it carries has not changed. What will you do with what you learn inside it?
The Jackson Home at Henry Ford is open to the public. More details are available at thehenryford. org.
text 988, or use the online chat at https://988lifeline. org/chat/. Protecting your crown starts with knowing your mind, your body, your future, and your life are worth protecting.
Highland Park
be any problems,” she said.
One issue residents continue to raise is street lighting. For many Highland Park residents, dark streets remain one of the most visible reminders of the city’s long-running financial struggles. McDonald said she understands the frustration.
“The citizens deserve to have their lights back on in the city of Highland Park,” she said. But she also argues that restoring every light at once would be financially irresponsible.
“We have to gradually increase what we can and do what we can to make sure that we’re not going back into those financial disparities,” McDonald said. “We don’t want to have to come to the citizens and ask them for tax increases for lighting because we know that they can’t afford it.”
Instead, she says the city is pursuing a combination of solar and traditional LED lighting while working to grow its tax base. That tax base, McDonald argues, is the key to almost everything else.
“As long as we own half of the city, that means we’re losing half the taxes,” she said of the fact that the city owns nearly half of the 2.9-square-mile city.
Her vision is straightforward: sell vacant city-owned land to qualified developers, create new housing and business opportunities, generate additional tax revenue, and use that revenue to improve city services.
“The key is to make sure that we get rid of these lots that we own to developers who are willing to build and provide housing, provide different mixed-use facilities so that we can get increases in our taxes,” she said.
The election itself presents another challenge. McDonald is facing three opponents, including community activist Mama Shu, whose work through Avalon Village has earned recognition far beyond Highland Park’s borders. Asked whether Mama Shu’s popularity presents a political obstacle, McDonald didn’t sound concerned.
“I don’t see any obstacles. All I see is progress,” she said. “All I see is the future of Highland Park.”
Instead, she framed the race as a choice between continuing projects already underway and starting over.
“In order to continue the progress, we have to continue the status quo, and that has been a problem in Highland Park over the years — the constant turnover of elected officials,” she said. “When you’re on a roll, you keep rolling.”
McDonald believes one of her biggest hurdles with voters isn’t her opponents but explaining how local government actually works.
“People think we’re supposed to just instantly be able to do something. That’s not how it works,” she said. “Everything is checks and balances. Everything has to either have approval, or it has to be a part of the process.”
As she reflects on her first term, McDonald says the job has changed her perspective on city government. She came to the mayor’s office after serving on City Council, but she quickly learned the executive role carries a different set of responsibilities.
“I’ve learned a lot about the finance of a city,” she said. “I’ve learned a lot about legalities and making sure that you’re staying within the guidelines of those legalities. I’ve learned a lot about our city charter and the things that’s good and the things that’s bad.”
Most of all, she says she’s learned patience. “What I have learned is that slow and steady wins the race,” McDonald said. “There’s nothing that can be done in four years to build a city that’s been down for 25 year.”
Whether voters agree may be one of the biggest questions facing Highland Park this election season. McDonald argues the city is finally beginning to move in the right direction. Her opponents will undoubtedly argue that progress isn’t happening fast enough. For her part, the mayor says she hopes residents focus on what has already been accomplished — and what she believes is still possible.
“I really want the citizens to know that Highland Park can be the best place ever. It was. It can, and it will be again if we work together as a people,” she said. “There’s nothing that can stop us from building this city back from where it is.”
From page A-1
Jawana Jackson
Stay back, stay safe:
Sweet Potato Sensations:
In 1976, Cassandra Thomas made a sweet potato cookie to satisfy her new husband Jeffery’s sweet tooth, and in doing so, she created a legacy.
In 1987, the Thomases debuted Cassandra’s sweet potato cookies at the Rosedale Park 30 Block Yard Sale. Within just three hours, they were out of cookies and onto something big. Today, you can find the famous sweet potato cookie – along with an entire menu of pies, cakes, sandwiches, croquettes, soups, and more – at their bakery: Sweet Potato Sensations.
Though you’ll find plenty of comforting and familiar recipes here, owner Espy Thomas is determined to be a part of the future as well—one reason she decided to enroll her business in DTE’s MIGreenPower program.
“I want to be part of the revolution,” she says. “Change is a good thing!”
After enrolling for just $1 per month in 2025, Thomas remarked that other small businesses should consider joining the program. “If everyone has a small piece of the pie, we can lift it easier.”
DTE couldn’t agree more.
DTE’s MIGreenPower business partners make a massive impact; not just for themselves, but for the entire state. Every enrollment creates more clean energy developments, which means more local jobs, environmental benefits, and community improvements.
Sweet Potato Sensations is a perfect example of how to move forward together, without forgetting our roots. “We value tradition, family, community, culture and our neighborhood,” says Thomas.
And it shows!
As Sweet Potato Sensations continues to pair tradition and legacy with meaningful change, be sure to visit them Thursday through Sunday to experience community programs like ballroom dancing on Thursdays, indulge in Free Ice Cream Fridays, sample products from other local, Black-owned businesses, and of course...
To try the sweet potato cookie that started it all. Check out sweetpotatosensations.com to see their latest offerings and visit www.migreenpower.com to learn more about the MIGreenPower program today!
What to do if you see a downed power line
Every summer, strong storms and high winds move through Detroit – and when they do, downed or low-hanging power lines can pose a safety risk.
While these situations are not common, knowing what to do can help protect you, your family and your neighbors.
The most important rule is simple: always assume a downed power line is energized. Even if a wire isn’t sparking, smoking or making noise, it can still carry electricity. That energy can travel through the ground or nearby objects, meaning anything touching the line – like a fence, vehicle, tree or even standing water – could also be dangerous.
If you come across a downed or damaged line, keep
mind:
■ Stay at least 25 feet away – about the length of a school bus – from the line and anything nearby.
■ Avoid anything in contact with the line, including objects and the surrounding ground.
■ Keep children and pets away from the area. Here are some electric safety tips every parent should share with their kids.
■ Look up and scan your surroundings, especially after storms, as lines can be hidden in trees or debris.
■ Call 911 and report it to DTE Energy – don’t assume someone else already has.
■ Never cross yellow caution tape, which marks a hazardous area.
In rare cases, a power line may fall on a vehicle. If this happens and you are inside the car, stay there unless there is an immediate danger, such as fire or smoke. Call 911 and wait for emergency responders to let you know when it is safe to exit. If you must leave the vehicle, avoid touching the car and the ground at the same time. Instead, jump clear with your feet together and shuffle away until you are a safe distance from the area.
Whether you’re in Corktown, on the east side or anywhere across the city, DTE crews work around the clock to respond to downed lines and restore power. But your awareness matters too. Storms can strike fast, and a few simple precautions can make a big difference. By staying alert, keeping your distance and reporting hazards quickly, you can stay safe. Anytime is the right time to discuss electric safety with your family, friends, co-workers and neighbors. Visit dteenergy.com/wiresafety for more information on how to be safe around electricity.
DTE Energy REACHs out to Michigan Youth
Dr. Karl Gregory
Lived a Life of Vision, Courage, and Legacy
By Dr. Sheila Gregory GUEST CONTRIBUTOR
Dr. Karl Dwight Gregory – distinguished economist, educator, civil rights strategist, and institution builder – passed away on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, in Michigan after a remarkable life dedicated to advancing economic justice, intellectual rigor, and community empowerment.
His legacy reflects not only personal excellence but a profound and lasting contribution to the shaping of modern Detroit, national public policy, and global economic thought.
Born on March 26, 1931, in Detroit, Michigan, to Bertram Vincent Gregory and Sybil Wynter Gregory, Karl and his brother, Victor Gregory, were raised within the vibrant Black communities of Hastings Street and Black Bottom in Detroit – centers of culture, entrepreneurship, and resilience in an era defined by segregation.
His parents, immigrants from Kingston, Jamaica, instilled in him a deep respect for discipline, education, faith, and global awareness – values that would guide him throughout his life.
As a child, Gregory spent formative years in Kingston, Jamaica, under the guidance of his uncle, Dr. Oswald Anderson, then Mayor of Kingston. There, he developed an early understanding of governance and global systems. These perspectives would later inform his work as an economist and public intellectual.
Upon returning to Detroit, he confronted the stark realities of racial segregation, experiences that deeply shaped his lifelong commitment to equity and systemic reform.
A gifted student, Gregory entered Wayne State University at the age of 15. After early academic challenges, he found his calling in economics. This discipline allowed him to analyze inequality not as a personal failing, but as a structural condition requiring thoughtful intervention.
He earned both his Bachelor’s (1952) and Master’s (1957) degrees from Wayne State University, working multiple jobs to support himself, before going on to receive his Ph.D. in Economics and Finance from the University of Michigan in 1962.
Dr. Gregory served with distinction for his country as a First Lieutenant in the United States Army from 1953 to 1956 before embarking on a prolific professional career. Stationed in Germany, he observed postwar reconstruction and gained a broader global economic perspective.
These experiences reinforced his belief in the power of public policy and institutional design to shape more equitable societies.
His professional career spanned academia, government, finance, and international development.
He served as a Fiscal Economist in the U.S. Office of Management and Budget during the Kennedy and Johnson administrations from 1961 to 1964 and later as a visiting scholar with the U.S. Congressional Budget Office. Under Presidents Ford, Carter, and Reagan, he helped shape federal budget policy while confronting racial discrimination firsthand.
His response was not resignation, but action. Through leadership in the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE), he challenged discriminatory housing practices and worked toward meaningful civil rights reform.
Following the 1967 Detroit uprising, Dr. Gregory returned to his hometown determined to help rebuild – not through symbolic change, but through the creation of enduring institutions.
He became a central figure in advancing Black economic empowerment, founding and leading organizations such as ACCORD, Inc., and helping to establish the Inner-City Business Improvement Forum.
Dr. Gregory was an early president of the National Economic Association. After being denied the opportunity to purchase a home in an upscale neighborhood in Bowie, Maryland, in 1962 because of his race, he organized extensive, long-running protests that helped contribute to the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1968.
He was also instrumental in the founding and leadership of First Independence National Bank, one of the nation’s most prominent Black-owned financial institutions, where he served as chairman and interim president.
Later, as Chairman and CEO of Greater Detroit BIDCO, he worked to expand access to capital for minority-owned businesses, reflecting his unwavering belief that economic equity requires ownership, access, and institutional strength.
As an educator, Dr. Gregory taught at Wayne State University, SUNY Buffalo, and Oakland University, where he served from 1968 until his retirement in 1996 as Distinguished Professor Emeritus.
What Justin Onwenu vs. Abraham Aiyash Means for Black Detroiters
By Keith Williams
Chair, Michigan Democratic Party Black Caucus
2026 will be a defining year for Michigan Democrats. Donald Trump is back in power, and we must fight Republican attacks on workers, voting rights, civil rights, immigrants, public education, and health care. But we also have to decide what type of party we want to be and what records, values, and experiences we elevate.
Black Democrats have a crucial role to play in shaping Michigan’s future. We need leaders who understand our communities, can pass tangible legislation that improves the economic condition of Black families, and can deliver priorities like Hope Zones, which can serve as an engine for direct neighborhood investment.
No race captures this choice more clearly than the State Senate District 1 primary in Detroit and Downriver, where Justin Onwenu is facing Abraham Aiyash.
Aiyash’s relationship with Senate District 1 raises serious questions. He previously represented Hamtramck in the state House, which is located in Senate District 3. He later moved to Detroit last summer after expressing concerns about his ability to connect with and win support from Black voters on Detroit’s east side (whose district has a greater number of Black voters).
Onwenu is a fourth-generation Detroiter, organizer, attorney, Detroit’s first Director of Small Business Affairs under Mayor Mary Sheffield, and an appointee to Gov. Whitmer’s Black Leadership Advisory Council. Aiyash is a former state representative who represented Hamtramck and Detroit’s east side. Their records and backgrounds are very different.
Voters should consider the following:
First, in the face of Trump’s attacks on our economy, civil rights, voting rights, and the Constitution, we need leaders who will oppose Trump’s agenda, not help create the conditions for it.
Justin Onwenu supported Vice President Harris and Democrats against Trump. Abraham Aiyash did not. Aiyash discouraged support for Vice President Harris and then refused to support her in the 2024 election.
Those choices mattered. Many voters sat out or cast ballots for third-party candidates or Trump, and now we are living with the consequences: attacks on our rights, rising instability, and policies that hurt Black workers and families.
If we cannot trust Aiyash to stand clearly against Trump, we cannot trust him to protect our civil rights, defend voting rights, close the wealth gap, or make life more affordable.
Second, this race is about commitment to our communities.
When he was in the state House, a Hamtramck councilman said Aiyash “neglected us.”
Moving is not the issue by itself. But when a candidate expresses concern about connecting with Black voters, is not trusted by leaders from his own community, supports crazy policies like defunding the police, and then asks voters in another district to trust him, skepticism is warranted.
Third, Democrats have to decide whether we want rhetoric or results.
As House Majority Floor Leader, Aiyash had power and responsibility, yet more than 200 Democratic bills died at the end of session that would’ve improved our lives considerably. Now he is seeking a promotion by promising policies he did not deliver while in the House.
He also led House Democrats in missed roll-call votes in 2023, voted yes on a bill to give tax breaks for data centers (House Bill 4905), and accepted thousands of dollars in corporate lobbyist-funded food, flights, drinks, hotels, and travel (according to a Michigan Transparency Network Lobby Expenditure analysis).
That record does not match his rhetoric. I believe in markets, entrepreneurship, and direct investment in Black communities so our people can build generational wealth and thrive. But voters should be skeptical of a politician who campaigns as a socialist ready to take on billionaires, corporations, and lobbyists while quietly accepting thousands in free gifts from the lobbying firms for health insurers, banks, and utilities that he claims to oppose.
This race is about more than personality. It is about whether Black Michiganders send someone to Lansing who is rooted, reliable, and ready to deliver.
Justin Onwenu has the background, relationships, and record to fight for Black communities and move our priorities forward. Abraham Aiyash does not.
Keith Williams is the Chair of the Michigan Democratic Party Black Caucus.
He was widely admired for his intellectual rigor, clarity of thought, and dedication to mentoring students who would go on to leadership roles in business, government, and public service.
Dr. Gregory’s influence extended far beyond Detroit. He served as a senior economic advisor to China through the United Nations in 1991, participated in global dialogues on economic systems, and engaged with leaders across continents, including involvement in a historic televised dialogue with Mikhail Gorbachev and Boris Yeltsin.
His global reach was matched by his deep local commitment.
Throughout his life, Dr. Gregory received numerous honors, including the NAACP Detroit Research Award, the U.S. Small Business Administration Minority Business Advocate Award, and the Detroit Urban League’s Distinguished Warrior Award for Lifetime Service to Social Justice and Civil Rights.
These recognitions reflect a life lived at the intersection of scholarship, service, and moral courage.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Gregory was a devoted family man. He shared a lifelong partnership with his beloved wife, Tenicia Ann Banks Gregory, who preceded him in death.
Together, they built a family grounded in love, strength, and excellence.
He is survived by his children, Karin Diane Gregory, Sheila Therese Gregory (Stephen Lee Brown), and Kurt David Gregory; and by his grandchildren, Courtney Gregory Jones and Anthony Gregory Jones.
Dr. Gregory’s legacy is also carried forward through the Dr. Karl D. Gregory Endowed Scholarship at Oakland University and the cooperative house at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, that bears his name – the Dr. Karl D. Gregory House, located at 1617 Washtenaw Ave.
After making a significant down payment that enabled students to purchase the 21-bedroom home, Dr. Gregory helped create a lasting resource for future generations.
The Dr. Karl D. Gregory House stands as a living testament to his commitment to education, access, diversity, collaboration, equality, equity, and collective advancement.
Dr. Karl Dwight Gregory lived a life of uncommon purpose.
He believed that justice must be built, not merely declared, and he dedicated his life to constructing the intellectual, institutional, and moral foundations necessary for a more equitable world.
He will be remembered not only for what he achieved but for what he made possible for others.
Celebration of Life
The Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 20, 2026, from 2- 4 p.m. at Oakland University, 2200 N. Squirrel Rd. in Rochester, Mich., where Dr. Karl D. Gregory was Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Economics.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dr. Karl D. Gregory Endowed Scholarship Fund at Oakland University. Donors may visit the university giving page and enter Fund No. 61664 in support of the scholarship honoring Dr. Gregory’s commitment to education and opportunity.
His life was a blueprint for courage, intellect, and enduring impact. His legacy will continue to guide generations to come.
Keith Williams
Dr. Gavin Beckford, Phd
Economic and Downtown Development Manager
Canton Township
Dr. Gavin Beckford is a dedicated public servant and community leader who currently serves as Economic Development and DDA Manager for Canton Township. Guided by a service-first philosophy, he is committed to creating opportunities for residents, businesses, and future generations through strategic partnerships, economic growth initiatives, and community engagement. Known for his willingness to mentor others and share his expertise, Dr. Beckford has earned the respect of colleagues and community stakeholders throughout the region.
Born in Kingston, Jamaica, his educational journey took him to Howard University, where he earned his undergraduate degree, followed by an MBA from Babson College and a Ph.D. from Instituto de Empresa in Madrid, Spain. Beyond his professional responsibilities, he serves on numerous regional and state organizations and actively supports charitable efforts benefiting families in need. Dr. Beckford enjoys photography, travel, cooking, and spending time with his wife and two children.
Barry Blackwell
Director of Community Relations
Henry Ford Health
H onorees
The Michigan Chronicle Men of Excellence Awards recognizes local African American men who inspire others through their vision, leadership, exceptional achievements, and participation in community service. They are men who exemplify extraordinary stature, poise, and integrity who continue to break the mold and affect change in their professions and community. These men influence those around them to go beyond the norm and strive for greatness. They are champions of our economic empowerment and diversity, the backbone of our business, religious and educational organizations, and driving forces in politics and service. Help us welcome our new Men of Excellence class.”
Teferi Brent Director - Office of Neighborhood and Community Safety City of Detroit
Tyrone Carter State Representative Detroit 1st District
State Representative Tyrone Carter is serving his fourth term in the Michigan House of Representatives, representing the 1st House District, which includes portions of Detroit, Ecorse, and River Rouge. A lifelong resident of the district, Carter is a proud graduate of Southwestern High School and Central Michigan University who has dedicated his career to public service and community empowerment.
Before his election to the Legislature, Carter served 25 years with the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, rising to the rank of Executive Lieutenant. He is a graduate of the Wayne County Sheriff’s Police Academy, the FBI National Academy, and the Michigan Political Leadership Program. His professional experience also includes serving as Assistant Director of Campus Police for Wayne County Community College District and Community Involvement Specialist at Southwestern
A small business owner and committed community leader, Carter has spent more than a decade mentoring youth, leading neighborhood initiatives, and serving on nonprofit boards focused on improving the quality of life for residents throughout his community.
William C. Childs, II, DO
Barry Blackwell is Director of Community Engagement for Henry Ford Health, where he leads strategic initiatives that connect organizational priorities with the needs of Detroit residents. He played a key role in the community engagement process for the Future of Health Project, a historic $3 billion investment and the largest project in Detroit Community Benefits Ordinance history, helping ensure community voices were central to the effort.
Prior to joining Henry Ford Health, Barry served on the staff of Detroit City Council President Mary Sheffield, advancing community-focused policy and partnership initiatives. A lifelong advocate for civic engagement, he made history as the youngest candidate to run for Detroit City Council at age 19.
Barry holds degrees from Wayne State University and Central Michigan University and has more than a decade of public service experience.
Arnold Boyd
Founder and CEO
Student Transportation Services
Arnold Boyd is a Detroit entrepreneur, community advocate, and founder of Student Transportation Services, a Michigan-based company that has provided safe, reliable transportation for students and families for more than 15 years. Through perseverance, determination, and a commitment to service, he has built a successful business while becoming a respected leader in the Metro Detroit community.
As a business owner, Boyd has created employment opportunities for countless individuals and remains dedicated to mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs and those seeking second chances. His leadership is guided by a belief in accountability, empowerment, and creating pathways to success for others.
He is also the founder of The Arnold Boyd Foundation, which supports underserved communities through youth mentorship, workforce development, reentry support, housing initiatives, and community revitalization programs. A passionate advocate for education and economic empowerment, Boyd continues to inspire others through his personal journey of resilience, transformation, and service to the community.
Darnell Boynton, Esq.
Chief Corporate Compliance Officer & General Counsel
CNS Healthcare
Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine
Teferi Brent is a lifelong Detroiter, respected community leader, and advocate whose commitment to justice, public safety, and community empowerment has spanned more than 35 years. A graduate of Highland Park High School, he earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Eastern Michigan University and an MBA from Baker College. He also pursued advanced theological studies at Ecumenical Theological Seminary.
Following a distinguished 30-year career in manufacturing leadership, Brent dedicated himself full-time to community service, prisoner reentry, violence prevention, and youth development. He currently serves as Senior Director of the Office of Neighborhood and Community Safety for Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield. A founder and leader of several impactful organizations, Brent serves on numerous boards and commissions and was appointed to the Governor’s Black Leadership Advisory Council, where he chairs the Community Safety & Justice Committee. An award-winning advocate and mentor, he remains deeply committed to serving God, family, and community while helping build safer, stronger neighborhoods throughout Detroit.
Dr. Harold Cadwell, Jr.
President and CEO
Transformation Development Corporation
Dr. Harold H. Cadwell, Jr. is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Transformation Development Corporation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals and strengthening communities throughout metropolitan Detroit.
A respected pastor, educator, leadership coach, and community advocate, Dr. Cadwell has devoted his career to helping people discover and maximize their potential.
He holds a Doctor of Ministry degree and is recognized for his commitment to personal development, leadership training, and community transformation. Through innovative programs, strategic partnerships, and faith-centered principles, he leads initiatives that promote social, economic, and emotional well-being. A sought-after speaker and mentor, Dr. Cadwell inspires individuals and organizations to lead with purpose, embrace resilience, and create meaningful, lasting impact in their communities and beyond.
Dr. Andre Camp
Sergeant | Detroit Police Department
Professor | Cleary University & Walsh College
Henry
Dr. William Childs is a proud Detroit native and dedicated Family Medicine physician committed to improving the health and well-being of the community that helped shape his life. He provides comprehensive, evidence-based primary care with a special focus on underserved and historically marginalized populations throughout Detroit. Guided by the principles of compassion, equity, and advocacy, Dr. Childs is passionate about building meaningful relationships with patients and families while addressing the social and structural factors that influence health outcomes.
Beyond clinical practice, he is a strong advocate for health equity, community empowerment, and mentorship. Through culturally responsive care and community engagement, Dr. Childs strives to inspire future generations and help Detroit families achieve healthier, stronger, and more vibrant lives. He considers serving his community both a privilege and a lifelong responsibility.
Hon. Ponce’ D. Clay
Judge | 36th District Court
Judge Poncé D. Clay is a Judge of the 36th District Court in Detroit, Michigan, a retired United States Navy Lieutenant Commander, and a dedicated public servant whose career spans military service, law, government, and community leadership. A Detroit native and graduate of Morehouse College, he earned both his Juris Doctor and MBA from the University of Detroit Mercy.
During more than 20 years of military service, Judge Clay served as a Combat Systems Officer and Navigator, leading complex operations while holding Top Secret/SCI security clearance. Following his naval career, he founded Clay Law PLC and built a successful practice focused on probate, real estate, and veteran advocacy. He also served as Wayne County’s Division Director of Veteran Services, help-
Darnell T. Boynton, Esq., serves as Chief Corporate Compliance Officer and General Counsel for CNS Healthcare, where he provides strategic legal leadership and oversight for one of Michigan’s leading behavioral health organizations. During his tenure, he successfully guided CNS Healthcare’s transition from a leased facilities model to a real estate portfolio valued at more than $50 million and played a key role in the successful merger of CNS Healthcare and Northeast Integrated Health.
A native Detroiter, Boynton serves on the boards of NAMI and Trix Academy. He holds degrees in Japanese Language and Finance from the University of Notre Dame, a Juris Doctor from Vanderbilt University, and an Executive Leadership Certification from Harvard Kennedy School. A deacon at Citadel of Praise Church, Boynton is a devoted husband, proud father of two daughters, world traveler, and passionate advocate for underserved communities.
Dr. Andre M. Camp embodies mentorship, leadership, and service through a lifelong commitment to uplifting others. From an early age, he has guided peers with empathy and wisdom, qualities that have grown into impactful mentorship of youth through his fraternity, community policing efforts, and academic roles. His influence extends beyond guidance; he creates meaningful opportunities that expand perspectives and ignite purpose.
A 27-year veteran of the Detroit Police Department, Dr. Camp has served with distinction across multiple units, advancing to leadership roles including Sergeant and contributing to Human Resources and Equal Employment Opportunity efforts. His excellence has been recognized through honors such as the Spirit of Detroit Award and Board Member of the Year from Project Dream, Inc. Beyond his professional career, Dr. Camp remains deeply engaged in service through organizations like Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and NOBLE. As a Project Dream board member, he continues to shape transformative youth programming. His legacy reflects integrity, compassion, and a lasting impact on his community.
Jason Dixon
CEO Strategic Alliance CDC
Gary Ganaway
Commercial Director
Randoncorp
Huey S. Gray, III
Director of Membership
Detroit Regional Chamber
Jason Dixon is the Chief Executive Officer of Strategic Alliance Community Development Corporation (SACDC), a Detroit-based nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing smart city innovation, workforce development, renewable energy, and digital equity.
Under his leadership, SACDC’s Route to a Smart City initiative is expanding broadband access, workforce training, and community infrastructure throughout Detroit and Inkster. He is also leading the redevelopment of a former municipal facility into a Smart Infrastructure and Workforce Development Hub that will provide training in cybersecurity, fiber optics, renewable energy, and skilled trades.
Dixon has successfully overseen a $1.2 million solar energy project and directs NCCER-accredited workforce programs that connect residents to high-demand careers. He also serves as Director of Economic Development for the Detroit Realtors Association and Greater Metro Detroit Realtists, while chairing the Economic Development Committee for the Wayne County Democratic Black Caucus.
Charles Dulin
Director of IT & Facilities Centers for Family Development, Inc. | DBA Black Family Development
Charles Dulin serves as Director of Information Technology and Director of Facilities for the Centers for Family Development, where he has provided leadership since 2001. With more than two decades of experience, he oversees the organization’s technology infrastructure, ensuring secure, reliable, and efficient systems that support the delivery of critical mental health and juvenile services. His responsibilities include network administration, cybersecurity, cloud services, technical support, and strategic technology planning.
Beyond his professional role, Dulin is deeply committed to community engagement, actively participating in neighborhood meetings and initiatives in the Osborn and Cody Rouge communities for more than 15 years. He also supports community service efforts through Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Dulin holds a Bachelor of Science in Economics from Michigan State University and a Master of Finance degree from Wayne State University.
Dr. Rashid Faisal
Department Chairman for the College of Urban Education Davenport University
Gary Ganaway is a seasoned automotive executive with extensive global leadership experience in sales, marketing, engineering, and strategic business development.
He currently serves as an executive with Randoncorp, a Brazil-based multinational company with operations across North America, Europe, and Asia, where he leads Sales, Marketing, and Engineering for AXN Automotive Systems.
Prior to joining Randoncorp, Ganaway held several senior leadership positions within the automotive industry, including Vice President of Ram Commercial Vehicle Operations at Stellantis, Vice President of Global Sales at Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems, and Director of Global Product Strategy at Meritor Automotive.
Committed to community service and leadership development, Ganaway is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. and serves on the boards of the Kappa Detroit Foundation and the Gary Education Development Foundation in his hometown of Gary, Indiana.
He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Kettering University and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Michigan.
John Gardner
HR Manager, Veterans Initiatives/Diversity/Career Tech Work Based Learning Programs | Roush Industries
John Gardner is a veteran, entrepreneur, and community leader dedicated to service, leadership, and creating opportunities for others.
Appointed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer to the Michigan Veterans’ Trust Fund Board, he helps oversee programs that support veterans and their families across the state. He also serves on the Board of Directors for Oakland Thrive, advancing economic development and workforce initiatives throughout Oakland County.
As Social Action Chair for the Detroit Nu Omega Chapter of Ome-
ga Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Gardner leads efforts focused on mentorship, civic engagement, and community service. Through Precision Housing Inc., he is pursuing innovative housing solutions for veterans and senior citizens. Gardner is widely respected for his integrity, servant leadership, and commitment to strengthening communities.
Bishop Lambert Gates, Sr.
Huey S. Gray III serves as Director of Membership for the Detroit Regional Chamber, bringing more than 20 years of experience in enterprise sales, workforce development, and strategic leadership. Throughout his career, he has achieved record-breaking sales performance and earned the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) Bronze, Silver, Gold, and upcoming Platinum Dana Ketterling Awards, positioning him for membership in the prestigious Million Dollar Circle. A proud Detroit native and graduate of Southern University, Gray is passionate about developing future leaders and expanding economic opportunities. He has dedicated significant efforts to workforce development through mentorship and the cultivation of employer partnerships that create pathways to success for young adults. He also mentors professionals nationwide through ACCE. His
Award. He is a graduate of Ohio Northern University.
Dr. Rashid Faisal is Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Urban Education at Davenport University, where he is dedicated to developing a diverse and highly qualified pipeline of future educators. A proud graduate of Cass Technical High School, Dr. Faisal is recognized for his leadership in culturally responsive teaching, inclusive pedagogy, and urban education reform. He holds degrees from Madonna University, Teachers College at Columbia University, and the University of Michigan-Dearborn.
Deeply committed to advancing educational equity, access, and student success, Dr. Faisal draws inspiration from his family’s legacy as descendants of Black families who migrated to Detroit’s Black Bottom and Paradise Valley during the Great Migration. He is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Sigma Delta Lambda Chapter, and St. Thomas African Episcopal Church. Dr. Faisal is the devoted husband of Christy Dolar-Faisal and proud father of Gabrielle Faisal.
Jonathan Feild, Esq.
Partner
Secrest Wardle
Jonathan “J.R.” Feild, Esq., accepted an offer to join Secrest Wardle as a C-Partner beginning in June 2026. He is a seasoned attorney and legal executive with more than 12 years of experience in litigation, compliance, risk management, and organizational leadership across both the public and private sectors. Prior to joining Secrest Wardle, J.R. served clients at Ven Johnson Law, PLC, where he participated in multi-million-dollar settlements and advocated on behalf of individuals in complex personal injury matters. Before relocating to Michigan, he served as General Counsel for the Shelby County Attorney’s Office, advising executive leadership on legal strategy, governance, compliance, and risk management.
J.R. is deeply committed to community service and mentorship. He volunteered at the DMC Community Baby Shower in 2025 and supported the Community Baby Shower Drive in 2025 and 2026. He also served as a panelist for Black Fathers during Black Maternal Health Week 2025 and regularly mentors aspiring attorneys and students pursuing careers in the legal profession.
David Felton Deputy Wayne County Sheriff’s Office
Presiding Bishop of the Pentecostal Churches of the Apostolic Faith Inc and Sr. Pastor | Kingdom Apostolic Ministries
Bishop Lambert W. Gates, Sr. is the Presiding Bishop of the Pentecostal Churches of the Apostolic Faith International and Senior Pastor of the multi-campus Kingdom Apostolic Ministries. A dynamic preacher, gifted teacher, and internationally sought-after speaker, Bishop Gates is recognized for his impactful ministry and visionary leadership. He serves as President of L.W. Gates Ministries, which provides oversight for the churches, ministries, and outreach programs under his leadership.
Bishop Gates holds a Master of Arts in Theology from Fuller Theological Seminary and a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from the University of Michigan. Before entering full-time ministry, he taught English at Detroit’s Osborn High School. He is the author of several influential books and is devoted to faith, family, and service. He and his wife, Nancy Franklin Gates, are the proud parents of two sons and grandparents of two.
Dr. Herman J. Glass, II Chiropractor
Glass Chiropractic Health Plaza
Dr. Herman Glass is a respected chiropractor, holistic wellness practitioner, and healthcare leader who has served the Detroit community for nearly 40 years. As owner and director of Glass Chiropractic Health Plaza since 1985, he specializes in whole-body wellness, natural weight management, and patient-centered care.
A pioneer in his profession, Dr. Glass was the first chiropractor appointed to the Michigan Cancer Foundation Board and served on the Michigan State Board of Chiropractic Examiners. He is a past president of the American Black Chiropractic Association and was named the organization’s Chiropractor of the Year in 1992.
Known for his commitment to holistic health, mentorship, and community service, Dr. Glass continues to help patients achieve lasting wellness while inspiring the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Sean Gray
Senior Vice President of Small Business Detroit Economic Growth Corporation
David Felton is a seasoned law enforcement professional, trainer, and community leader with more than 15 years of dedicated service to the citizens of Wayne County, Michigan. As a Sheriff’s Deputy with the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, he is recognized for his professionalism, integrity, and commitment to fostering positive relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve. Beyond his law enforcement responsibilities, Felton is an accomplished facilitator and mentor who has led training programs in leadership development, diversity and inclusion, conflict resolution, behavioral change, and personal growth. His passion for public service has enabled him to build meaningful partnerships with youth, residents, faithbased organizations, and community stakeholders.
Currently pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration, his research focuses on servant leadership and employee empowerment within law enforcement organizations. David and his wife, Dana, have been married for 34 years and are proud parents of three children and grandparents to one granddaughter.
Sean Gray serves as Senior Vice President of Small Business Services at the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC), where he leads a portfolio of initiatives designed to support entrepreneurship and strengthen Detroit’s small business ecosystem, including the nationally recognized Motor City Match program and the Detroit Legacy Business Project. He also serves on the Eastern Michigan University Board of Regents.
A passionate advocate for economic opportunity, Gray draws inspiration from his family’s legacy of small business ownership and has spent more than two decades advancing entrepreneurship as a pathway to community prosperity. His professional experience includes leadership roles with the U.S. Small Business Administration and the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program. A fellow of the German Marshall Fund, Gray has represented Detroit’s economic development successes on the global stage and remains committed to empowering residents through education, innovation, and business ownership.
Dr. Nelson Henry Chief Innovation Officer | Center for Strategic Leadership & Organizational Coherence Dr. Nelson Anthony Henry is an internationally respected leadership strategist, executive coach, and organizational development expert with more than 25 years of experience driving transformational change across educational, corporate, and community sectors. As Chief Innovation Officer for the Center for Strategic Leadership & Organizational Coherence, he develops innovative leadership solutions and directs the Initiative for School Transformation, advancing educator effectiveness in high-need schools. In Michigan, Dr. Henry successfully led the turnaround of a struggling school and secured a $750,000 state grant to support sustainable improvement efforts. He is also the Founder and CEO of Charisma Circle, LLC, where he provides executive coaching, leadership consulting, and team development services. His work is dedicated to helping individuals and organizations discover purpose, maximize potential, and achieve lasting impact.
Lawrence Hood
Chief Executive Officer
Detroit Academy of Arts & Sciences
Lawrence Hood is a visionary education leader and the Chief Executive Officer of Academy Management Company, as well as Superintendent of Detroit Academy of Arts and Sciences (DAAS). Throughout his distinguished career, he has remained committed to expanding educational opportunities and improving outcomes for underserved students and families. A former principal of a boys preparatory school and Vice President at Achievement Network, Hood helped drive academic improvement initiatives impacting more than 900 schools nationwide. He is also the founder of Detroit Early Middle College High School, where he is advancing an innovative birth-to-career educational model. Under his leadership, DAAS has become a recognized center of excellence and innovation, featuring a Birth-to-5 learning center and strong academic growth. Hood is passionate about creating equitable pathways to education, workforce development, and economic mobility for future generations.
Bruce Hunt Executive Director
Detroit Windsor Dance Academy
As Executive Director of the Detroit-Windsor Dance Academy (DWDA), a nonprofit organization serving the Detroit-Windsor international community, he has dedicated more than four decades to enriching lives through the art of dance. Since 1984, he has led the academy with a passion for excellence, developing generations of dancers through comprehensive, multi-level training programs that emphasize discipline, creativity, confidence, and artistic expression.
Under his leadership, DWDA has become a respected cultural institution, celebrating nearly four decades of providing high-quality dance education and performance opportunities. Known for its talented and spirit-driven dancers, the academy has touched the hearts of audiences of all ages through performances that showcase skill, strength, elegance, and passion. His commitment to youth development, arts education, and community engagement continues to leave a lasting impact throughout the Detroit-Windsor region.
Kevelin B. Jones, II
Superintendent
Flint Community Schools
Kevelin B. Jones II is an accomplished educator, pastor, and community leader who has served as Superintendent of Flint Community Schools since 2021. During his tenure, he has led transformative initiatives that include the renovation of four school buildings, the successful administration of more than $154 million in federal ARPA relief funding, and the development of Flint’s first new school construction project in more than 50 years. The CUBE @ BrownellHolmes, which opened in September 2025, serves as a model for educational innovation and community partnership.
With 25 years of experience in education and a master’s degree in Educational Leadership, Jones has served as a dean, principal, and Assistant Superintendent of Academics. A Flint native and Pastor of Bountiful Love Church, he is committed to fostering academic excellence, collaborative leadership, and community engagement. His vision is guided by the principles:
“Reenergize the Pride, Renovate the Plans, Rebuild the Possibilities, and Repurpose for a Brighter Future.”
Rashaan Josey
President - Automotive
Bose Corporation
Rashaan Josey is Senior Vice President and leader of the automotive business for Bose Corporation, where he oversees a global organization that delivers premium audio systems and advanced in-cabin technologies for the Bose, McIntosh, and Sonus faber brands. Under his leadership, the company partners with more than 20 automotive manufacturers worldwide, creating exceptional listening experiences for millions of consumers each year.
Prior to being named Senior Vice President in 2023, Josey served as Global Head of Sales and Marketing for Bose Automotive and held several leadership positions since joining the company in 2015. His diverse career spans product management, software development, sales, and business leadership across both the automotive and consumer electronics industries.
Josey holds a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering from the University of Michigan, a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the University of Pennsylvania, and executive education credentials from the Stanford University Graduate School of Business.
Jerry Lawrence, Jr.
Principal/Director
University Prep Science and Math High School
Dr. Cleamon Moorer, Jr.
Founding Executive Director
Eye Care for Detroit
Dr. Cleamon Moorer Jr. is an accomplished healthcare entrepreneur, educator, author, innovator, and media host whose work is transforming healthcare access and advancing health equity throughout Michigan. As the founder and leader of multiple healthcare enterprises, he has helped thousands of patients receive quality care, including through his pioneering mobile vision care services designed to reach underserved communities. He also leads American Advantage Home Care, expanding access to compassionate in-home healthcare services across the state. With more than 25 years in higher education, Dr. Moorer serves as Entrepreneur in Residence at Central Michigan University and has previously served as dean of business schools at three institutions. A two-time TEDx speaker and bestselling author, he is also host of The Home Health Care Today Show on TV-20 Detroit. Dr. Moorer holds a Doctor of Business Administration degree and continues to innovate through emerging healthcare technologies. He and his wife, Nicole, are the proud parents of four sons and reside in metropolitan Detroit.
Quantez Pressley
Pastor | Third New Hope
Richard T. Seay
Deputy Mayor / Director of Information Technology | City of Pontiac
Richard T. Seay, MBA, is a respected public-sector leader with extensive experience in municipal operations, technology, budget management, and community engagement. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a strong commitment to improving government efficiency, enhancing service delivery, and fostering sustainable community growth. Known for his collaborative leadership style, Seay works effectively with residents, elected officials, legal professionals, and community stakeholders to develop practical solutions to complex challenges. His approach emphasizes accountability, transparency, and measurable results while maintaining a strong focus on equitable opportunities for all citizens.
Deeply connected to the communities he serves, Seay is recognized for his accessibility, responsiveness, and dedication to creating lasting civic impact through strategic planning, operational excellence, and forward-thinking leadership.
Bruce Simpson
Assistant Wayne County Executive Wayne County
Pastor QuanTez Pressley has served as Lead Pastor of Third New Hope Baptist Church in Detroit, Michigan, since January 2020. A visionary leader with a passion for faith, service, and community empowerment, Pastor Pressley is committed to advancing the church’s mission of glorifying God, transforming lives, and making a lasting impact throughout the community.
A graduate of Morehouse College, he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree and later received a Master of Divinity from Union Theological Seminary in New York. He is currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry degree in Leadership, Spirituality, and Justice at Union Theological Seminary. Pastor Pressley leads with compassion, excellence, and a servant’s heart. His ministry is grounded in Colossians 3:23–24, inspiring others to serve God wholeheartedly through every aspect of life and leadership.
Tyron Releford
Business Unit Leader/ Senior People Leader in Global Supply Chain | General Motors Corporation
Bruce Simpson is a dedicated public servant and respected government leader currently serving as Assistant Wayne County Executive under the leadership of Wayne County Executive Warren C. Evans. In this role, he helps oversee critical county operations and initiatives that impact the lives of more than 1.8 million Wayne County residents. Prior to joining Wayne County, Simpson served for a decade (2015–2025) as the City of Detroit’s Ombudsman, becoming the youngest person to hold the position at age 32. During his tenure, he worked tirelessly to improve government accountability and responsiveness while helping shape public policy, including legislative recommendations that contributed to the passage of key state legislation.
A graduate of Bowling Green State University with a degree in History and a minor in Political Science, Simpson credits his strong work ethic and commitment to service to the influence of his father, Bruce Simpson Sr., and his grandmother, former Congresswoman Barbara-Rose Collins. Above all, he considers his greatest accomplishment to be raising his three children—Cameron, Caiden, and Cayla.
Jerry Lawrence Jr. is an accomplished educational leader dedicated to advancing academic excellence and fostering student success. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a strong commitment to improving educational outcomes, cultivating inclusive learning environments, and supporting the holistic development of scholars. His leadership experience spans multiple roles where he has successfully implemented innovative strategies to enhance student achievement, strengthen school culture, and promote continuous improvement.
As Principal of University Prep Science and Math High School, Mr. Lawrence champions a vision centered on high expectations, data-driven decision-making, teacher development, and meaningful community engagement. He is passionate about preparing scholars to excel academically, lead with confidence, and thrive in college, careers, and life. His commitment to educational excellence continues to positively impact students, families, and the broader community.
Kevin Manuel
Owner | Amada Senior Care
Kevin Manuel is the Owner and Operator of Amada Senior Care, where he has provided strategic leadership and operational oversight for more than a decade. Responsible for all aspects of the organization, including strategic planning, marketing, human resources, and business development, he has built a reputation for delivering exceptional care and support to seniors and their families.
An accomplished entrepreneur and healthcare professional, Kevin brings extensive expertise in customer service, sales, strategic planning, and marketing strategy, with a specialized focus on the senior care industry. Under his leadership, Amada Senior Care has become a trusted resource for families seeking quality in-home care solutions and senior support services. Kevin earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Public and Environmental Affairs from Indiana University Bloomington. He remains committed to improving the quality of life for older adults while helping families navigate the complexities of aging with compassion, dignity, and excellence.
Myron Montgomery
Principal East English High School
Myron Montgomery is a lifelong Detroiter, proud graduate of Detroit Public Schools, and an accomplished educational leader dedicated to student success. A graduate of Northern High School, he earned a Bachelor of Science in History and Michigan Secondary Teaching Certification from Eastern Michigan University, as well as a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Marygrove College.
Montgomery devoted 15 years to teaching within Detroit Public Schools Community District before transitioning into administration in 2015. He currently serves as Principal of East English Village Preparatory Academy at Finney, where he continues to champion academic excellence and student achievement. With 27 years of service to Detroit students and families, he remains deeply committed to educational equity and community impact. Montgomery is a lifetime member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. and Prince Hall Masons Lodge #24. He and his wife, an assistant principal in Detroit Public Schools Community District, are the proud parents of two children.
Ty Releford is a seasoned operations and supply chain executive whose distinguished career at General Motors spans more than four decades. Throughout his tenure, he has held leadership roles in manufacturing, logistics, global supply chain management, and other key operational areas, consistently delivering results while fostering collaboration and excellence.
Known for his steady leadership, strategic problem-solving, and people-first approach, Ty has earned a reputation as a trusted leader who brings clarity to complex challenges and inspires teams to achieve their highest potential. His ability to build relationships, resolve conflicts, and mentor others has made a lasting impact on colleagues and organizations alike.
Ty earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management after attending both Western Michigan University and the University of Phoenix. A proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., he is also a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose life exemplifies leadership, integrity, and service.
Dan Ringo
Vice President Operations and Compliance SEEL, LLC
Dan Ringo, Esq. serves as Vice President of Operations & Compliance for SEEL, LLC, where he leverages more than 25 years of executive leadership experience to drive operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and strategic growth. A seasoned attorney, business executive, and U.S. Air Force veteran, Ringo has held senior leadership positions including Chief Operating Officer, Senior Vice President, and Executive Director, overseeing multimillion-dollar budgets and high-impact business and energy efficiency programs nationwide.
Known for his expertise in strategic planning, organizational transformation, process optimization, and compliance management, Ringo has successfully led complex initiatives that generated millions in savings while enhancing operational performance. He is also an accomplished entrepreneur, having founded a facilities management company that achieved $6 million in revenue within its first three years. A graduate of Wayne State University Law School, Ringo is a Forbes contributor and respected thought leader on skilled trades, workforce development, and business leadership, helping shape conversations around innovation, talent development, and organizational success.
Dr. Teronto Robinson, MD CEO and founder TMD Healthcare Consulting, PLLC
Dr. Teronto Robinson, MD, MHA, is a board-certified Family Medicine physician and the Founder and Chief Medical Officer of TMD Healthcare Consulting, PLLC, a physician-led healthcare consulting firm based in Southfield, Michigan. He earned both his bachelor’s degree and Doctor of Medicine from Wayne State University and holds a Master of Health Administration from Michigan State University’s Eli Broad College of Business. Dr. Robinson has further distinguished himself with a certification in Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare from Johns Hopkins University.
A proud native of Ecorse, Michigan, and graduate of Ecorse High School, he remains deeply committed to serving the Detroit and Downriver communities. Passionate about developing the next generation of healthcare leaders, Dr. Robinson actively mentors medical students while advancing innovative solutions that improve healthcare delivery and patient outcomes.
Shawn Smith Manager/Labor Relations, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan | Referee/ NFL Game Official
Shawn is a Detroit native and graduate of Detroit Public Schools. Following high school, he attended Ferris State University, where he excelled as a student-athlete, participating in both football and track and field. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting and became a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. A respected professional, Shawn is both a Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) and Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE). He currently serves as a manager in the healthcare industry, where he is recognized for his leadership, analytical expertise, and commitment to excellence.
In addition to his corporate career, Shawn has distinguished himself in the National Football League as a game official and was recently selected to serve as the Referee for Super Bowl LX. A devoted husband and father of four, Shawn attributes his personal and professional success to his ability to perform under pressure, collaborate effectively, maintain the highest standards of integrity, and remain objective in all endeavors.
Chris Taylor
Community Engagement & Outreach Director
United Way of Southeastern Michigan
Christopher Taylor is a dedicated nonprofit leader and community advocate serving as Director of Community Engagement and Outreach for United Way for Southeastern Michigan. With more than 13 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, he has built a reputation for developing innovative programs that address critical community needs and create lasting impact.
A graduate of Michigan’s public education system, Taylor earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Management with a minor in Computer Science, providing a strong foundation for strategic leadership and operational excellence. During his tenure with United Way, he played a key role in developing the Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) and later launched the United Way Community Fulfillment Center. Under his leadership, the initiative has distributed more than $14.6 million in resources to families,
Dwayne Walker UAW Local 900 President UAW Ford
Glenn Wilson
President & CEO
Darryl Woods
Vice President | Public Affairs
Detroit Pistons
Dwayne Walker is a dedicated labor leader, veteran, and community advocate whose commitment to service spans more than three decades. A Detroit native and former U.S. Marine, Walker served his country for 12 years, including during Operation Desert Storm. Since joining Ford Motor Company’s Wayne Assembly Plant in 1990, he has risen through the ranks of union leadership and currently serves as President of UAW Local 900.
A three-term UAW National Negotiator and Recording Secretary for the UAW National Negotiation Committee, he played a key role in supporting members during the historic 41-day UAW strike. Walker is actively involved with the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU), the NAACP, and UAW CAP. His leadership and service earned him the 2024 African American Labor Leader of the Year Award. He also serves as a deacon at Pure Word Missionary Baptist Church.
Maurice Wallace Owner/Executive Chef LoneStar Catering
Chef Maurice Wallace is the Owner and Executive Chef of LoneStar Catering and a respected culinary professional with more than 35 years of experience in the food service industry. A graduate of the renowned culinary program at Breithaupt Vocational Technical Center, he further honed his craft at Johnson & Wales University, earning an Associate Degree in Culinary Arts.
Throughout his distinguished career, Chef Wallace has built a successful catering business, traveled across the country, and prepared meals for notable figures including Beyoncé, Rosa Parks, and Faith Evans. His culinary expertise has been featured on numerous local television news programs. Beyond the kitchen, Chef Wallace is deeply committed to community service. He is a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., Waterford Lodge No. 31 PHA, and 100 Black Men. He also serves as a ministry leader at The Winners Circle and is dedicated to feeding the homeless and mentoring youth throughout the community.
Stefen J. Welch
Vice President | Public Affairs Detroit Pistons
Stefen J. Welch is a strategic and solutions-oriented executive with extensive experience in public affairs, corporate relations, civic engagement, and advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. As Vice President of Public Affairs for the Detroit Pistons, he leads transformative community and business initiatives, including efforts to bring a WNBA franchise back to Detroit. Welch also played an instrumental role in securing approval for the $3.5 billion Future of Health development, a landmark project designed to expand access to housing, healthcare, education, and research opportunities throughout the region.
A proud graduate of Oakland University and the University of Detroit Mercy, Welch further enhanced his leadership expertise through executive studies at Howard University. He serves on numerous boards, including Oakland University, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, and the YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit. He resides in Detroit with his wife and daughters.
Rev. Darryl Williams
Pastor | St. Stevens AME
Reverend Dr. Darryl R. Williams is a distinguished pastor, author, and community leader whose ministry spans nearly four decades. A native of Chicago, Illinois, he is a graduate of Wilberforce University, Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary, and United Theological Seminary, where he earned his Doctor of Ministry degree with a focus on preparing churches for effective community outreach.
A third-generation African Methodist Episcopal (A.M.E.) minister, Dr. Williams has successfully led congregations in Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Detroit, transforming ministries through strategic growth, community engagement, and innovative development initiatives. Since 2017, he has served as Pastor of St. Stephen A.M.E. Church in Detroit, strengthening partnerships between the church and surrounding communities.
An accomplished author, Dr. Williams has written two devotional books focused on Christian stewardship and spiritual growth. He and his wife, Laurelyn, an educator of more than 30 years, have been married since 1987 and are proud parents of their daughter, Christina.
Communities First, Inc. Glenn Wilson is the Co-Founder, President, and CEO of Communities First, Inc. (CFI), an award-winning organization dedicated to economic development, quality housing, and community revitalization. Since co-founding CFI in 2010, he has led the organization’s strategic growth, resulting in more than $100 million in real estate development, the creation of over 2,000 jobs, and significant investment in small businesses and local communities.
Under Wilson’s leadership, CFI has developed or preserved nearly 1,000 housing units and built a portfolio exceeding 3 million square feet of commercial space, impacting approximately 45,000 individuals annually through innovative programs and strategic partnerships.
A visionary entrepreneur and respected thought leader, Wilson works at the intersection of the nonprofit, public, and private sectors, advancing initiatives in economic development, equity, climate resilience, and public policy. He advises corporations, financial institutions, and foundations representing more than $160 billion in collective assets, helping align capital with meaningful community outcomes. He is also a devoted husband, father, mentor, and trusted community convener.
Dr. Warren Woodruff, DDS
Owner/Dentist
Caring Smiles Family Dentistry
Darryl Woods Sr. is a nationally recognized advocate, speaker, mentor, and community leader whose work is transforming lives across Michigan. As Founder and CEO of Fighting the Good Fight, LLC, Woods is dedicated to empowering individuals, strengthening families, and creating pathways to success for youth and returning citizens. He currently leads the Credible Messengers Mentoring Initiative at the Wayne County Juvenile Detention Facility, where he and his team provide guidance, mentorship, and life skills development to young people, helping them envision and pursue brighter futures. Woods also serves as Community Liaison for Growth Works, Director of S.A.Y. Detroit Better Together, Chaplain for the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department, and a member of the Detroit Branch NAACP Criminal Justice Committee. A respected voice on public safety, youth development, and criminal justice reform, Woods has served as Chair of the Detroit Board of Police Commissioners and currently serves as a Commissioner for the State Appellate Defender Commission (SADO). Through his leadership, advocacy, and commitment to service, Darryl Woods Sr. continues to inspire hope, foster positive change, and build stronger communities throughout Michigan and beyond.
Dejuan Woods
Director of Marketing and Community Relations | First Independence Bank
Dr. Warren Woodruff is a dedicated dentist, entrepreneur, and lifelong learner whose career reflects a unique blend of innovation, craftsmanship, and service. From an early age, he was drawn to design, problem-solving, and technology, interests that evolved alongside the rapidly changing digital landscape. While studying at the University of Michigan, Dr. Woodruff initially pursued engineering before discovering his true calling in dentistry—a profession that perfectly combined his passion for working with his hands, creative design, and helping others.
After earning his undergraduate degree, he completed his dental education at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. Along the way, he met his wife, Dr. Amira Woodruff, who shared both his educational journey and professional aspirations. Together, they founded Caring Smiles Family Dentistry in 2016, providing compassionate, high-quality dental care to patients of all ages in West Bloomfield, Michigan.
Driven by a commitment to excellence, innovation, and community impact, Dr. Woodruff continues to embrace new opportunities to educate, serve, and improve the lives of others both inside and outside the dental profession.
DeJuan Woods is Director of Marketing and Community Relations for First Independence Bank, where he leads strategic marketing, community engagement, and financial wellness initiatives that help expand access to economic opportunity and generational wealth. With more than 25 years of experience, he has built a distinguished career spanning corporate relations, philanthropy, higher education, and community development.
His professional leadership includes roles with Wayne State University, the Skillman Foundation, the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, and other organizations dedicated to strengthening communities and creating pathways to success. A committed civic leader, DeJuan actively supports youth development, mentorship, and economic empowerment through board service and community partnerships. His work reflects a passion for advancing economic inclusion and ensuring opportunity is accessible to individuals and families throughout
In a time when honor, morale, and dignity have seemingly become lost virtues, there remains a remnant of men who stand as beacons of light.
It is in honor of this sentiment that the Michigan Chronicle salutes Men of Excellence. The African American male has always been looked upon to provide for his family, protect and serve his country, and lead in times of uncertainty. He is called upon to train boys to be men, while setting the bar for our young women as to where their standards should be. The essence of a man is never defined by gender alone, but by the content of his character. Men of Excellence are those who exemplify strength by standing firm in the face of adversity, leadership in periods of struggle, compassion in times of peril, and integrity in the midst of opposition. Through proven success and selfless dedication to the community, these exemplary men are lauded as role models for the next generation of excellence. They are our community and business leaders, husbands, fathers, and protectors.
The Michigan Chronicle salutes each and every one of the 2026 Men of Excellence Honorees.
Michigan Chronicle
C ity . L ife .
B1 | June 17-23, 2026
The Inner Architecture: What Mercury Retrograde Is Actually Trying to Tell You
By Miss AJ Williams
We have a story that we repeat every few months, like clockwork.
Technology glitches. A conversation takes a strange turn, and you can’t figure out why. An ex pops up in your notifications at the worst possible moment. A plan you felt sure about starts to fall apart in ways you never expected. In the middle of all this, someone always says it, “Mercury is retrograde.”
This story always follows the same pattern. Something goes wrong, and we blame something outside ourselves. Suddenly, it’s nobody’s fault.
You were just caught off guard by a planet.
You’re a reasonable person dealing with an unreasonable cosmic problem. You just have to wait it out, and in three weeks, things will be back to normal.
This story sticks around not because it’s wrong about the planet.
Mercury really does go retrograde three or four times a year, each time for about three weeks. That’s true. The mistake is in the order of events. The story says Mercury retrograde starts the trouble, but that’s not actually the case.
Mercury is linked to communication, thinking, and how information moves between people and between our inner and outer worlds. When Mercury moves forward, its energy goes outward— conversations start, decisions get made, and plans progress. But when Mercury goes retrograde, that outward flow stops, and its energy turns inward. This is a time for reviewing, revising, reflecting, and finishing what’s been left undone. It’s not about sabotage. It’s about making corrections.
This is where the story begins to shift.
The miscommunication that comes up during Mercury retrograde wasn’t caused by the planet moving backward. It was already there, just under the surface of a relationship that had quietly lost its honesty. The technology that broke was already weak, held together by neglected systems because we kept moving forward and didn’t stop to fix it. The plan that falls apart was based on an assumption everyone thought they understood, but no one really talked about. When an ex shows up, it’s not just fate. That connection had something unresolved, and the retrograde gave enough space for it to show up. Mercury retrograde didn’t cause these problems. It just brought them to light.
This difference might seem small, but it matters. If Mercury retrograde reveals rather than creates, then the things that come up during this time were already there before it started. The miscommunication was already happening. The weak systems were already breaking down. The unfinished business was still unfinished. The retrograde didn’t bring new problems. It just turned on the light in a room where those problems had been hiding in the dark.
So the story we keep telling isn’t really about Mercury. It’s about what we haven’t wanted to face.
The areas that retrograde brings to light aren’t random. There’s a pattern, and it’s worth noticing. It’s the agreements, with others or yourself, that no longer fit who you are now. It’s the conversations that got cut short because they were
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Detroit Boxer Lance ‘Boogie’ Smith Honors His Father’s Legacy through Faith, Fight, & Focus
How Michigan Made Juneteenth a State Holiday
By Sam Robinson SENIOR REPORTER
The annual celebration of Juneteenth on June 19, which commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans across the United States, is an observed holiday for Michigan courts, banks, and most public government functions.
The recognition of Juneteenth by American institutions is a recent tradition.
The push to celebrate Juneteenth as a “day-off” holiday happened after the racial justice movement in 2020. In 2021, President Joe Biden in 2021 signed legislation marking Juneteenth (June 19) as the 12th federal holiday. It was America’s first new federal holiday created since Martin Luther King Jr. Day in 1983.
In Michigan, Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed legislation three years ago, Act 215 of 2023, officially placing Juneteenth on the state’s list of holidays.
“Michigan’s story is incomplete without the legacy of Black Michiganders,” Whitmer said earlier this month on social media. “As we gear up to celebrate Juneteenth later this month, let’s all take time
to recognize and honor the countless contributions of Black Michiganders who have made our state what it is today.”
In 2023, when she signed the legislation into law, Whitmer said Juneteenth is a moment of celebration and reflection, “but it’s also an opportunity to recommit ourselves to action.”
The city of Detroit, the largest majority Black city in the U.S., has for years offered Juneteenth as a paid city holiday.
Juneteenth commemorates the June 19 order from Union Major General Gordon Granger, who told African American slaves in Texas that the Confederate Army had surrendered and that President Lincoln had issued the Emancipation Proclamation.
The legislation to create a judicial and bank holiday in Michigan was comprised of Senate Bill 50 and House Bill 4722. Detroit state Sen. Sylvia Santana introduced the Senate bill, while Detroit state Rep. Helena Scott introduced the House version of the bill.
“This is another major milestone as we work in our state and our nation to tackle our history head on and better acknowledge, recognize, and in this case, cele-
By Jeremy Allen EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Punches don’t sneak up on Lance “Boogie” Smith the way that memories do.
Sometimes the memories are tucked inside a workout; sometimes they’re hidden in a decision that requires patience instead of emotion; and sometimes they arrive as a familiar phrase he heard so many times growing up that he stopped paying attention to it until life gave it meaning.
His father, Stephan Smith, had a way of doing that.
“I remember one time I had a conversation with my dad and I was like, ‘Man, Pops, you’re dropping a lot of gems on me. How am I gonna be able to remember all this?’” Boogie said. “[My dad] said, ‘When it’s time, it’ll come to you.’” These days, it comes to him often.
Stephan Smith died on Sept. 1, 2022, before he could see his son, Lance “Boogie” Smith – one of the city’s most dominant upand-coming boxers – fight professionally. He saw only about half of the more than 80 amateur bouts Boogie would eventually compile. He wasn’t there to watch him graduate from Wayne State University earlier this year in May, and he won’t be there for the world-title fights Lance believes are ahead.
But Father’s Day isn’t especially difficult for Smith because of what his father missed. It’s meaningful because of what his father left behind.
Long before Boogie became one of Detroit’s rising stars in the sport, he was a quiet kid who loved sports. He played football and basketball, and he loved competition. But as he prepared to enter Detroit Edison High School, Stephan Smith nudged Boogie toward something different.
Stephan Smith had experienced profound loss himself after the death of his own father, and he also battled serious heart issues that eventually limited what he could do physically. As Boogie’s athletic future began to take shape, Stephan Smith suggested boxing – a combat sport that would allow Boogie to push himself physically and be smart in and out of the ring.
“He was like, ‘Man, you know you’re going to high school,
brate the diverse experiences of all cultures and races,” Santana said in 2023. “I appreciate the widespread, bipartisan support of this bill and the progress and awareness of Juneteenth that it illustrates, and I will keep looking for ways to find common ground to make a Michigan a more inclusive state for all.”
Whitmer’s administration has touted its efforts to address the racial gaps in health care and education. They also have championed Sen. Sarah Anthony’s (D-Lansing) Senate Bill 90, also known as the CROWN (Creating a Respect-
ful and Open World for Natural Hair) Act. protects Michigan residents from discrimination in the workplace based on wearing their natural hair. Whitmer signed that bill into law in June 2023. Democratic leaders in the state have been able to increase the number of students eligible for free community college, require implicit bias training as part of the knowledge and skills necessary for the renewal of licenses and registrations of health professionals in Michigan, and have banned discrimination based on natural hairstyles.
However, prison reform advocates and police accountability activists say state leaders must do more. The failure to pass meaningful police accountability bills under a Democratic controlled government was disappointing to progressive advocates in Detroit. Bipartisan proposals have been stalled in legislative committees. Under a Republican controlled House, those measures won’t pass. “Second Look” reforms that would allow courts to re-evaluate sentencing after inmates serve a certain amount of time in prison are also stalled under Republican control.
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Lance “Boogie” Smith
and you have to learn how to fight, especially around Detroit,’” Boogie said. “And then I just to build that confidence within myself.”
The confidence part mattered because Boogie had never considered himself timid, but he was reserved. Boxing offered something football and basketball never did, because there was nowhere to hide, no teammates, and no excuses. It was the ultimate combat sport that pitted man versus man.
From the beginning, he felt something special when he put on the gloves.
“Pretty much day one, I was like, this is what I’m doing,” he said. “I felt that love. I felt like I could do it.”
What started as his father’s suggestion became his own pursuit. And that’s important for Boogie. In the years since Stephan Smith’s death, plenty of people have encouraged him to keep fighting for his father. He understands the sentiment, but it no longer captures how he views their father-son relationship.
“My dad would be happy and proud of me being the best me that I can be,” Boogie said. “It wasn’t about making my dad proud. The more I tried to hold on to making my pops proud, the more I kind of felt chained to his death,” he said.
What finally brought peace was a different realization.
“Now I was just like, well, I’m just trying to do it for me,” Boogie said.
“Because at the end of the day, when I become a father, I want my kid to be like, ‘My dad worked hard.’ If I fail and I try and I fail and I try and I fail and I try, the fact that I kept trying is what’s important. But if I fail and I just tuck my tail, I just couldn’t live with that.”
outlet, a distraction, a source of structure during a period when life suddenly felt chaotic.
“It was an escape, a distractor, everything,” Boogie said. “The more I loved it, the more it loved me back.” Funny enough, another world-class fighter mentioned spoke on boxing the exact same way during a post-fight press conference earlier this year. It was the GWOAT Claressa Shields. Boogie was on the undercard of the February 2026 fight at Little Caesars Arena, too.
“It makes sense that that’s something she feels, too. Boxing is the kind of sport where you get out what you put into it. Like I said, there’s no teammates to rely on and nowhere to hide. It’s all you, and the harder you work, the better off you tend to be.”
For years, part of the joy of boxing for Boogie came from seeing how much the sport meant to his father. Stephan Smith had always wanted to fight himself. Watching his son succeed brought him happiness. But eventually the motivation evolved.
“My motivation to be great eventually went from making my dad happy to, man, I actually like this because of what it done for me,” Smith said.
That doesn’t mean Stephan Smith is absent from Boogie’s journey. He’s always with him, Boogie said.
The last conversation that truly sticks with Smith happened only days before his father’s death. After a disappointing loss at the National Golden Gloves tournament to the eventual champion of the tournament, Smith was putting Boogie through a workout, and Smith, like he often did, gave Boogie another one of his gems.
“I remember him saying, ‘Man, you’ve got everything you need. You just need to be more tenacious.’”
At the time, Boogie laughed it off.
“I was like, ‘What are you talking about? I’m just running sprints.’”
Looking back, he understands his father wasn’t talking about boxing. “He was talking about life. Like I said, I was never timid, but I was reserved. His words were like, that’s not who you truly are inside. “
A few days later, Stephan Smith was gone, but his last words to Boogie and his presence has never left. Boogie doesn’t hesitate to acknowledge that.
“That first fight after he died was crazy. It was in October, only a few weeks later, and when I was in the ring, I felt like he was right there in the back of my ear.”
Boogie often speaks about faith when discussing difficult moments in his life. He watched his mother and grandmother endure tragedy and continue moving forward. He saw how they leaned on their faith and their values when circumstances offered every reason to quit.
“You see them lean on their faith,” he said. “And then to see this supernatural power that the Lord was able to bring them through.”
When his father died, Boogie turned to those same foundations.
“Man, it was definitely something that the Lord had done through me,” he said. “I knew that He didn’t leave me. I knew that He didn’t forsake me.”
Boxing became many things at once – an
Mercury Retrograde
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uncomfortable. It’s the decisions made by a version of you that you’ve already moved on from. It’s the relationships where talking has replaced real understanding. It’s the plans you started when you were someone you’ve since outgrown.
These are the spots where Mercury retrograde always catches up with you. It’s not that the planet is looking for your weak points, but these are the places where things don’t line up, and if you ignore them, they build up over time. Eventually, a three-week pause makes it impossible to keep running from them.
This is the part of the story that changes how you move forward.
If you see Mercury retrograde as something that just happens to you, you might think you should just wait it out. Don’t sign contracts, back up your files, and deal with the hassle until things go back to normal. But if you see it as something that reveals what’s going on inside you, waiting it out isn’t the answer. Instead, pay attention to what’s coming up, because you won’t always get this kind of clarity. What conversations have been harder than they should be? Is the problem with the words, or with what you’re trying to say? What keeps getting misunderstood, and what does that pattern tell you? What agreement are you still keeping even though you stopped believing in it?
These questions aren’t easy, and that’s not by accident. Discomfort shows you where something real needs your attention.
That realization allowed him to separate grief from purpose.
“Yeah, my dad was smiling. My dad would be happy and proud of me being the best me that I can be,” Boogie said. “But at a point, it wasn’t about making my dad proud.”
What brought peace was understanding that Stephan Smith’s legacy wasn’t dependent on boxing results. It lived in character, habits, and the choices Boogie makes every day.
“’Lazy man works the hardest,’” Boogie said, quoting one of his father’s favorite motivational one-liners. “Whatever you have to do, go hard and do it right the first time. You’ll probably have to do it over four or five times if you don’t do it right the first time, and now you’ve worked harder than the man who put his all into it the first time.
The phrase still catches Boogie when he starts looking for shortcuts.
“All them sayings and stuff, they just come back to me,” he said.
Those lessons have followed him outside the ring as well. This spring, Smith graduated from Wayne State University with a degree in sports management, an accomplishment he approached with the same discipline he brings to boxing. He viewed education as another opportunity to maximize his potential and another way to avoid wasting the gifts and opportunities in front of him.
As his professional career continues, his ambitions remain high. He talks openly about winning world titles, becoming undisputed champion, and one day reaching the Hall of Fame. But even those goals are secondary to the larger mission.
“It’s about my last name,” he said. That understanding became especially clear at Stephan Smith’s funeral.
“When people spend their money or time or energy, that’s what matters the most,” Boogie said. “That tells you what they think about you.”
The people who showed up told him everything he needed to know about the life his father had lived. There was respect and admiration, evidence of a man who had impacted people.
Now Boogie wants to build something similar, not rooted in being perfect or without flaws. He wants respect and legacy.
“My goal is to be the best at what I can do as the Lord allows me to,” he said. That’s what Father’s Day has become for him. It’s a reminder of the lessons, the values, and the voice that still shows up at the right time.
“I’m making my dad happy by making his son be the best version of his son that he can be.”
Blaming a planet for that discomfort, instead of looking at what inside you created it, is just a clever way to avoid doing the real work.
We’re good at blaming things outside ourselves. It’s understandable—external reasons are simpler and don’t ask much from us. They let us avoid facing the fact that the problems in our relationships, plans, and communication didn’t come from outside. They were built up inside us, one avoided conversation, one unexamined agreement, one outdated decision at a time. Mercury retrograde doesn’t build those patterns. It just won’t let you ignore them anymore.
The next time Mercury goes retrograde and things get messy, don’t ask what the planet is doing to you. Ask what the disruption is doing for you. What’s coming into view that you’ve been avoiding? What unfinished business has been chasing you while you kept moving forward? What’s been out of sync for so long that you now see it as normal?
You already know the answer. You’ve known it longer than Mercury has been retrograde. The planet just made it harder to ignore.
AJ Williams is a Spiritual Wellness Architect and Educator and the Managing Editor of the Michigan Chronicle. A thought leader at the intersection of spirituality, astrology, psychology, and identity evolution, she is the founder of Sunday Communion, a quarterly live transformation experience held in Detroit. The Inner Architecture is her editorial column on the work of becoming.
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