SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE
WEDNESDAY , 9.17.25
Shirley A. Massey Executive Conference Center
8:00am - 8:30am
8:30am - 10:30am
10:30am - 10:45am
10:45am - Noon
Noon - 1:00pm
1:00pm - 2:30pm 2:30pm - 2:45pm 2:45pm - 4:30pm 5:00pm - 7:00pm
B REAKFAST AND N ETWORKING
M USICAL S ELECTION , W ELCOME , O VERVIEW, AND I NTRODUCTIONS
S NACKS /B REAK
S TRATEGIC I NTELLIGENCE : B RIDGING S TRATEGY AND AI FOR B USINESS G ROWTH
W ORKING L UNCH
E NTREPRENEURIAL W EALTH T RANSFER
S NACKS /B REAK
F EDERAL M ARKET M ASTERY – S TOP C HASING , S TART W INNING
R ECEPTION (A FRICAN A MERICAN H ALL OF FAME )
THURSDAY , 9.18.25
8:00am - 9:00am 9:00am - 10:30am
10:30am - 10:45am 10:45am - Noon
Noon - 1:00pm 1:00pm - 2:30pm 2:30pm - 2:45pm 2:45pm - 3:45pm 3:45pm - 4:00pm 4:00pm - 5:30pm
B REAKFAST AND N ETWORKING
N URTURING THE S OUL OF Y OUR B USINESS : L EADERSHIP, W ELLNESS , AND S USTAINABLE G ROWTH
S NACKS /B REAK
N AVIGATING THE N EW F EDERAL L ANDSCAPE
W ORKING L UNCH : G ETTING THE B EST FROM M ENTORSHIP
F EDERAL R EADY: N AVIGATING DCAA C OMPLIANCE AND A CCOUNTING S YSTEMS FOR G OVERNMENT C ONTRACTS
S NACKS /B REAK
S ECURING C APITAL : PATHWAYS TO I NNOVATIVE C APITAL S TACKING
S NACKS /B REAK
T EAMING FOR I MPACT: U NLOCKING G ROWTH T HROUGH PARTNERSHIP
FRIDAY , 9.19.25
8:00am - 9:00am 9:00am - 10:30am 10:30am - Noon
Noon - 2:00pm 2:00pm - 3:00pm 3:00pm - 3:30pm
B REAKFAST AND N ETWORKING
P REPARING AND B ECOMING AN I NCLUSIVE S UPPLIER FOR IBM
E FFECTIVE L EADERSHIP F RAMEWORKS FOR D IVERSE E NVIRONMENTS
W ORKING L UNCH : E NTREPRENEURIAL L EADERSHIP C ONSULTING (ELC): D RIVING
B USINESS S UCCESS WITH S TUDENT C ONSULTANTS
A SCEND N ATIONAL C OHORT A LUMNI PANEL - E XPERIENCES AND L ESSONS L EARNED
R EFLECTIONS AND C LOSING
Program Agenda: 9.17.25
Wednesday, September 17th
Shirley A. Massey Executive Conference Center
8:30AM – 10:30AM BREAKFAST, PROGRAM WELCOME, OVERVIEW, AND INTRODUCTIONS
MUSICAL SELECTION: Imari Welcher, Junior Music Major, Morehouse College
T
iffany Rogers Bussey, DBA, MBA, MSc, PMP
Executive Director, Morehouse Innovation & Entrepreneurship Center
Dr. Tiffany Rogers Bussey is the founding Director of the Morehouse College Entrepreneurship Center, a global model for providing small business support in the areas of organizational management, infrastructure development and process improvement. Dr. Bussey has over thirty years of experience in various aspects of business management for corporate, small business, educational and non-profit organizations. As Director of the Morehouse College Innovation & Entrepreneurship Center, Dr. Bussey manages strategic teams of faculty, staff and consultants to achieve the goals of the Center, which is to assist in the development and growth of entrepreneurs of color through scholarly research, training and consulting services. Dr. Bussey is also an adjunct professor of Entrepreneurship and Strategy at Morehouse College. She frequently provides commentary as a small business expert on NPR, Bloomberg News, Black Enterprise and Huffington Post. Her opinions and writings have appeared in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, Atlanta Business Chronicle, USA Today and Forbes Magazine among other media outlets.
Dr. Bussey earned her doctorate in business administration and a masters of science degree in strategic management from Edinburgh Business School, Heriot-Watt University, Scotland, U.K. She received a master’s in business administration from George Washington University in Washington, D.C. and a baccalaureate degree in economics from The College of Saint Elizabeth in New Jersey. Dr. Bussey is a certified Project Management Professional, Situational Leadership Facilitator, Quality Auditor, Training Presenter, and a Teacher of Entrepreneurship. Her research interest intersects the areas of leadership behavior and strategic change in small firms.
Kendrick Brown, Ph.D., Provost and Senior Vice President
Kendrick Brown, Ph.D., is the provost and senior vice president for academic affairs at Morehouse College. He has more than 20 years of experience as a professor and senior administrator, having served students and faculty with distinction at private liberal arts colleges on the West Coast and the Midwest. A published scholar and a sought-after speaker on issues of race, identity, diversity, and inclusion, Dr. Brown earned his doctorate and master’s degree in psychology at the University of Michigan. He received his bachelor’s degree in psychology at Mount Union College in Ohio. During his tenure in higher education, he has worked to create and implement effective strategic plans while managing $50-million budgets, launching new academic majors, and empowering faculty to become national instructional leaders who innovate and inspire students to excel.
Dr. Brown shares a commitment to the Morehouse mission to develop men with disciplined minds who will lead lives of leadership and service. Among his priorities are the expansion of virtual education and study abroad opportunities, the creation of innovative programs for students studying on campus, and development of the esteemed Morehouse faculty.
Brown has written a number of published scholarly articles which have appeared in Current Psychology, The Journal of Applied Social Psychology, and The Journal of Black Psychology. He also has appeared as a panelist at the 2020 Naval Academy Leadership Conference, the 73rd and 74th annual meetings of the American Conference on Academic Deans, and the 31st International Congress of Psychology in Japan, and a host of other conferences.
Program Agenda: 9.17.25
8:30 AM – 10:30 AM B
REAKFAST, P ROGRAM W ELCOME , O VERVIEW, AND I NTRODUCTIONS
Grant M. Warner, Ph.D., Executive Director, Center for Black Entrepreneurship
Dr. Warner is the Bank of America Endowed Professor of Entrepreneurship and the Director of the Center for Black Entrepreneurship (CBE). A collaboration among the Black Economic Alliance Foundation, Spelman College, and Morehouse College, the CBE aims to grow the pipeline of Black entrepreneurs and connect them to investment and commercial opportunities. By increasing investment in Black-founded companies, the CBE will ultimately contribute to closing the investment gap. He has supported the signature Lab-to-Market accelerator in the country, the I-Corps program, across several federal agencies including the National Science Foundation, the National Institutes of Health, and the Department of Energy. He has served as an instructor in those programs and helped to develop the curriculum to support “deep tech” innovation. This has also extended to international Lab-to-Market programs where he provided similar support to the Korean Innovation Center KIC-Start program, Innovate Egypt, and GIST programs run by the Department of State. He received a B.S. degree from Cornell University, an M.S. degree from Penn State University, and a Ph.D. from Columbia University all in Mechanical Engineering.
Michael Verchot, Director, UW Foster School Consulting and Business Development Center and National Lead, Ascend
Michael Verchot is the founding director of the University of Washington’s Consulting and Business Development Center, a Lecturer in the Marketing Department at the Michael G. Foster School of Business and the National Lead for Ascend. Ascend is the nation’s largest ecosystem network focused on the growth of businesses owned by people of color. Ascend’s M3 model improves management skills, increases access to money (loans and investments) and grows market access through contracting and supply chain partnerships.
Matthew
Mullens, Federal Small Business Liaison Officer, IBM
Matthew Mullens, MBA, is a Certified Supplier Diversity Professional (CSDP) with 5 years of experience advancing equitable procurement practices at IBM. He has served as a BPO Consultant, Inclusive Supplier Engagement Program Commercial Leader for North America, and currently as a Small Business Liaison Officer (SBLO), leading federal subcontracting compliance and small business inclusion initiatives. Beyond IBM, Matthew can relate to some challenges small businesses face from his time as an entrepreneur who developed an award-winning plant-based food product recognized for its sustainability and market innovation.
Danita Harris, Director, MIEC Small Business Executive Program
Danita is the Program Manager for the Morehouse Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center helping business owners with management training, securing capital and securing contracts. She worked for companies in multiple sectors including Cox Communications, IBM, Bridgestone, Travelers Insurance, Central Intelligence Agency as well as non-profit organizations. She has a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the University of Georgia and has certifications in ISO 9000, Change Management, Agile Performance Management and Green Belt in Six Sigma. She also serves on the board for Out of Hand Theater, a non-profit organization that creates a safe space for all people to have conversations about the impact of social justice issues.
Program Agenda: 9.17.25
Thema Monroe-White,Ph.D., Associate Professor of Artificial Intelligence and Innovation Policy at the Schar School of Policy and Government and the Department of Computer Science (joint) at George Mason University
Thema Monroe-White is an Associate Professor of Artificial Intelligence and Innovation Policy at the Schar School of Policy and Government and the Department of Computer Science (joint) at George Mason University. She has received multiple NSF awards to investigate issues of racial equity in the STEM ecosystem, including a $1M NSF CAREER Award focused on increasing pathways into data science and AI careers and serving as a lead member of the research team for the Inclusion in Innovation Initiative. Thema holds a Ph.D. in Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy from the Georgia Institute of Technology, as well as Master's and Bachelor’s degrees in Psychology from Howard University.
Bonita S. Moore, Director of Operations, MIEC
Bonita S. Moore has over 20 years of experience in the field of contract management for small business and educational organizations. As Director of Operations for the Morehouse Innovation & Entrepreneurship Center, a historically black, private liberal arts institution for African American men, Ms. Moore handles all the day-to-day operational aspects of the center.
She has an outstanding record of accomplishment in program management, general accounting, procurement, meeting planning and management and customer service.
Ms. Moore holds a baccalaureate degree in marketing from Georgia State University in Atlanta, Georgia and provides astute knowledge in that field as well as business management.
MUSICAL SELECTION: Imari Welcher, Junior Music Major, Morehouse College
Imari Welcher is a junior Music major with a minor in Theater and Performing Arts from Stone Mountain, Georgia. He is a proud member of the Morehouse College Glee Club, serving as baritone section leader and Stage Manager, and has performed nationally from Salt Lake City to New York. Imari is also a Morehouse College Ambassador and the founder and Vice President of the Morehouse Story Making Guild. Beyond campus, he has pursued his passion for the arts globally—traveling to New Zealand in 2024 with the Atlanta Music Project to win the youth choirs division at the World Choir Games and returning in 2025 as a teaching artist for students ages 8-18.
Ascend National Cohort Participants (See complete Cohort Participants descriptions on pages 15 - 21)
• Victoria Washington, President /CEO, Vision IT
Tiffany Newhouse, CEO, Newhouse Project Consulting
• Rodney Northern, Founder/CEO, Multimerica Media Ventures, LLC
• Nicale Nxumalo, President /CEO, Southpoint Consulting, Inc.
• AL Turner, President, Turner & Turner Contracting, LLC
• Dwight Franklin, President /CEO, Professional Management Consulting Services
• Crystal Fleming, CEO, Living Invigorating Valuable Experiences, LLC (LIVE)
• Richard and Jennifer Hanks, CEO, MMC Government Solutions
• Cyrel Foote, Owner, Cascade Services Company, Inc.
• James Small, President, JJT & Associates, LLC
• Stephanie Parson, President /CEO, Crowned Grace International
• Jerry Brooks, President /CEO, DataCom Solutions, Inc.
• Tonya Lewter, Owner/CEO, La Vie Development, Inc.
• Doug Jackson, Co-Founder and Principal, Shared Vision Marketing
• Dr. Paula Anderson, President /CEO, PACE Consulting, LLC
• Kizzy Parks, Owner, K. Parks Consulting, Inc. (KPC)
• Gregory Edwards, CEO, Basemedia, LLC
• Syreeta Johnson, Founder/CEO, Redd Solutions
• Basso Ghee, President, GD Resources, LLC
• Michael Jones, Owner/CEO, Dynamic Service
• Integration Corp
• E7Strategies, Inc.
Soumya Veerachandran Balaji, President /CEO,
Vanessa Alzate, President /CEO, Kirkpatrick Partners
• Joey Hutchins, Founder/CEO, RightDirection Technology
• Solutions, LLC
• Alchemy Consulting Group
Arquella Hargrove, Founder/Chief Culture Officer,
• Ron Meeting, CEO, Rapid Strategy
Rangena Hotaki, CEO, Designovation Strategies, LLC
• Christopher Franklin, President /CEO, CYNWAVE Solutions, LLC
• Lakeisha Robichaux, CEO, Chief of Minds
• David Hailey, CEO, Countifi, Inc.
• Justin Menifee, President, Executive Realty Solutions, Inc.
• Lindsay Martin, CEO, 4Tech Solutions, LLC
•
• Arella Thomas, President /CEO, AlleraIT Solutions, LLC
Program Agenda: 9.17.25
10:45AM – NOON STRATEGIC INTELLIGENCE: BRIDGING STRATEGY AND AI FOR BUSINESS GROWTH
Session Description: This session explores how artificial intelligence is reshaping strategic decision-making and business operations. Participants will learn how to align technology investments with long-term goals, identify AI driven opportunities, and build agile strategies that position their businesses for scalable growth in a tech-driven future.
Learning Outcomes:
• Overview of why investment in a technology savvy strategy is paramount to success.
• Grasp of global, local, and IP perspectives of AI advancements and risks matter.
• How organization, processes and systems affect your speed to market.
Yolanda Rabun, Vice President and Associate General Counsel, Trust and Compliance Officer, IBM
Yolanda Rabun boasts 30+ years of robust experience as In-House Corporate Counsel. Yolanda led legal initiatives for prominent IBM brand organizations and decisively closed multimillion-dollar IBM Research intellectual property licensing deals in AI, cognitive computing, and quantum computing. Additionally, Yolanda has played a pivotal role in driving IBM’s growth through strategic leadership roles in M&As and divestitures, including her tenure as Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary for the Weather Company. Currently, Yolanda spearheads IBM’s Global Compliance, Cybersecurity, Data Privacy, and AI Ethics training programs, setting the standard for excellence. Yolanda has an honors degree from the College of the Holy Cross and is a Boston College Law School Presidential Scholar graduate. Recognized for her commitment to service, Yolanda received the President’s Lifetime Call to Service Award from President Obama.
1:00PM – 2:30PM ENTREPRENEURIAL
WEALTH TRANSFER
Session Description: This session is designed to equip a cohort of federal-ready entrepreneurs with practical, research-based entrepreneurial wealth transfer strategies. These strategies will align with the proven framework for Dynastic Wealth®, ensuring that participants leave with actionable tools to build, protect, and transfer wealth within their enterprises and communities.
Learning Outcomes:
• Identify the key principles of the Dynastic Wealth® framework and their relevance to entrepreneurial wealth building.
• Understand the role of wealth transfer strategies in creating sustainable business legacies.
• Apply culturally relevant and industry-appropriate strategies to protect and transfer entrepreneurial wealth.
• Develop an initial action plan for integrating wealth transfer principles into their business growth strategy.
LaTanya White, Ph.D., Founder/CEO, Concept Creative Group, LLC
Dr. LaTanya White is a trailblazing scholar-practitioner operating at the nexus of global competitiveness, equity, entrepreneurship curriculum design, and the racial wealth gap. Dr. White is a 2-time author, TEDx Speaker, and the founder of Concept Creative Group, LLC, a firm dedicated to business development, capacity building, and the pioneering concept of Dynastic Wealth™. Driven by her graduate studies at Antioch University’s Graduate School of Leadership and Change, her doctoral research on intergenerational wealth transfer and Black business families has given rise to an evidencebased entrepreneurship training model that has been added to the Congressional Record at the request of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship.
Program Agenda: 9.17.25
2:45PM – 4:30PM
FEDERAL MARKET MASTERY – STOP CHASING, START WINNING
Session Description: Success in federal contracting isn’t about responding to every opportunity—it’s about positioning your business where it can truly win. This session introduces practical strategies to help small businesses move beyond contract chasing and focus on building influence, trust, and visibility with the right agencies. Using the GovCon House framework, participants will explore how to align their capabilities with agency priorities, create meaningful relationships with decision-makers, and establish themselves as indispensable partners in the federal marketplace.
Learning Outcomes:
• Pinpoint the right federal agencies and opportunities by aligning their core capabilities with mission priorities and growth potential.
• Adopt an influence-driven strategy that emphasizes relationship-building, visibility, and credibility with federal buyers and teaming partners.
• Apply actionable techniques to increase win probability—shaping opportunities before they are released and positioning their business as the clear choice.
Michelle “G-I” Gardner-Ince, President/Founder, G-I Strategic Solutions
Michelle “G-I” Gardner-Ince (pronounced Ince, like Prince without the PR) is a retired U.S. Air Force Colonel, bestselling author, and a recognized innovator, pacesetter, and strategist in government contracting and small business growth. With more than 30 years of leadership experience, G-I has built a reputation for transforming systems, breaking barriers, and equipping businesses to compete and win in the federal marketplace.
Today, as founder of G-I Strategic Solutions and the nonprofit ABOVE (About the Business of Veteran Entrepreneurs), she equips leaders to clarify mission and market, and translates rank and results into revenue, visibility, and relevance—for impact and influence. G-I is a graduate of Tuskegee University, Troy State University, and the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth, and is nationally recognized as one of LinkedIn’s Top Military Veteran Voices.
5:00PM - 7:00PM RECEPTION
(AFRICAN AMERICAN HALL OF FAME)
MUSICAL SELECTION: Taylor Tookes, Violinist
The emerging Atlanta-based violinist, Taylor Tookes, indulges her musical passions as a performer, recording artist, producer, composer, and educator. Inspired by the ubiquity of music and its function as a universal language, Taylor uses her artistry to explore life and transform spaces sonically. Taylor’s musical practice combines her affinity for Black music and improvisation with her classical violin studies at the University of Michigan and the Atlanta Symphony Talent Development Program.
Program Agenda: 9.18.25
Thursday, September 18th
Shirley A. Massey Executive Conference Center
9:00AM – 10:30AM NURTURING THE SOUL OF YOUR BUSINESS: LEADERSHIP, WELLNESS, AND SUSTAINABLE GROWTH
Session Description: This interactive workshop will explore the critical connection between leadership wellness and organizational success.
Learning Outcomes:
• Explain how personal wellness influences leadership effectiveness, decision-making, and business sustainability.
• Identify ways to align their core values with their leadership practices to build authenticity and trust within their organizations.
• Design a simple, personalized action plan that integrates wellness practices with growth strategies to strengthen resilience and reduce burnout.
10:45AM –
Joy Beckwith, Ph.D, Founder/CEO, Carrefour Psychological Health Institute
Dr. Joy Beckwith is a clinical and sport psychologist, professor, media contributor, and trusted voice in mental health. Dr. Joy, as she is affectionally called, is a graduate of Spelman College and Emory University School of Medicine, where she served as Chief Clinician. She has written extensively on the mind-body connection as a guest columnist and has been featured in publications such as Essence, Oprah, Forbes, and Women’s Health. Her expertise and passion for community wellness have led to appearances on CNN, HLN, the OWN Network, A&E’s Intervention, and the Steve & Marjorie Harvey Mentoring Camp.
NOON NAVIGATING THE NEW FEDERAL LANDSCAPE
Session Description: The federal contracting environment is shifting under new Executive Orders, changing budgets, and evolving procurement pathways. This session provides clarity on compliance, funding priorities, and acquisition reforms—covering FAR updates, GSA changes, and emerging pathways like OTAs and CSOs. Participants will also gain insights into budget priorities in defense, IT, healthcare, and cybersecurity, with strategies to stay competitive in this new era.
Learning Outcomes:
• Understand the impact of recent Executive Orders on compliance, funding, and procurement strategies.
• Differentiate between traditional contracting and new acquisition methods such as OTAs, CSOs, category management.
• Apply strategies to stay compliant and competitive amid FAR and GSA reforms in high-growth federal markets.
Tracey Grace, President/CEO, IBEX IT Experts
Tracey Grace is the CEO of IBEX IT Business Experts, an award-winning, women and minority-owned firm specializing in IT training, federal contracting, and supplier management solutions. A proud alumna of the Morehouse ASCEND Program, Tracey leads IBEX Ed, the company’s premier training division, delivering cutting-edge technology and professional development solutions to federal agencies, commercial enterprises, and healthcare organizations nationwide. An SBA 8(a) graduate, IBEX continues to serve the federal sector with multiple active contracts and strategic buying vehicles, including OASIS+ and 8(a) STARS III.
Program Agenda: 9.18.25
1:00PM – 2:30PM
FEDERAL READY: NAVIGATING DCAA COMPLIANCE AND ACCOUNTING SYSTEMS FOR GOVERNMENT CONTRACTS
Session Description: Understanding and meeting the financial compliance requirements of federal contracts is essential for long-term success in the government marketplace. This session demystifies the Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA) expectations and explores how to establish and maintain a compliant accounting system.
Learning Outcomes:
• Understand different types of contracts, including firm fixed price, time and materials and cost-based contracts, and how those impact a company’s cost accounting requirements and associated government regulatory oversight.
• Identify the basic elements of indirect cost rates and project costing requirements.
• Understand areas DCAA commonly scrutinizes in these audits, identify common areas of non-compliance and how to address deficiencies before an audit occurs.
Joseph McCaffrey, Principal, Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP
Joseph McCaffrey is a principal in the government contractor solutions practice of Baker Tilly. Joseph has advised clients in the aerospace, hospitality, healthcare, construction, security services, technology and professional services industries on a wide range of business issues and regulatory compliance matters. Joseph has more than 20 years of experience advising and supporting government contractors, focusing on pricing, contract accounting, claims, internal control and government audit issues.
2:45PM – 3:45PM
SECURING CAPITAL: PATHWAYS TO INNOVATIVE CAPITAL STACKING
Session Description: We will explore pathways and innovative vehicles to secure capital and drive generational wealth.
Learning Outcomes:
• Identify resources available to finance growth and scale the business.
• Define the financial and non-financial requirements by capital provider.
• Understand the importance of follow-through and driving the process.
Moderator: Terence Strong, Fiserv Business Consultant, SBDC at Morehouse
Jewel Williams, Business Development Program Officer, LISC
Jewel D. Williams is a seasoned professional with a diverse background in both entrepreneurial ventures, corporate and educational environments. After successfully launching and scaling businesses in real estate finance and business consulting, Jewel has transitioned to LISC (Local Initiatives Financial Corp) Atlanta, where she now serves as Business Development Program Officer. In addition, she holds a current teaching role with the Andrew Young School of Policy Studies at Georgia State University in Atlanta.
Program Agenda: 9.18.25
2:45PM – 3:45PM
SECURING CAPITAL: PATHWAYS TO INNOVATIVE CAPITAL STACKING
Feintz Pierre, Vice President, Business Development Officer for the Mid-Atlantic
Market, Lendistry
Feintz Pierre is the Vice President, Business Development Officer for the Mid-Atlantic Market at Lendistry, where he specializes in small business lending and commercial real estate lending. Feintz has deep expertise in credit and risk analysis, project management, compliance, quality assurance, and business acceleration and has held senior leadership roles spanning commercial loan origination, multifamily acquisitions, residential lending, and syndications, building a proven track record of driving market growth, cultivating strategic partnerships, and optimizing investment portfolios.
Emily Reeves, Vice President of Capital Solutions, Bridge (a Foro Company)
Emily serves as the Vice President of Capital Solutions at Bridge, a digital marketplace that opens more doors for businesses seeking financial products and services. She leads the structuring of debt financing facilities and innovative purchase order (PO) solutions for Bridge’s corporate partners.
Xamayliz Gonzalez, (CSBC), Vice President, Senior Business Consultant, Chase Business Banking
Xamayliz Gonzalez is a highly skilled banking professional with 10 years of experience at JPMorgan Chase. Originally from Arecibo, Puerto Rico, Xamayliz now resides in the metro Atlanta area, where she serves as a Senior Business Consultant, helping business owners achieve their financial goals and navigate the complexities of the banking landscape.
Morgan Reese, Business Banker, Bank of America
For the past seven years, Morgan has served as a Business Banker with Bank of America, partnering with business owners across a wide range of industries. She specializes in supporting clients from the early stages of start-up through established companies generating up to $50 million in annual revenue.
Program Agenda: 9.18.25
Terence Strong, Fiserv Business Consultant, SBDC at Morehouse
Terence Strong graduated with a degree in Finance from Emory University and over the next 10 years built a career in international finance, partnerships and philanthropy at the World Bank, the InterAmerican Development Bank and the Rockefeller Foundation. He then successfully co-founded, raised capital for and scaled a venture-funded e-commerce startup in the bath and body industry, while teaching marketing, finance, strategy and customer development at a top-tier, globally recognized tech accelerator.
4:00PM – 5:30PM TEAMING FOR IMPACT: UNLOCKING GROWTH THROUGH PARTNERSHIP
Session Description: Our expert panelists will share insights and real-world examples of how businesses have successfully harnessed the power of partnerships to scale operations, enter new markets, and enhance their value propositions. Learn practical strategies for identifying the right partners, fostering strong relationships, and maximizing the benefits of collaboration as a key driver of business growth.
Learning Outcomes:
• Insights into how businesses have successfully harnessed the power of partnerships.
• Practical strategies for identifying the right partners.
• Leveraging 8(a) as a growth/transition strategy.
Moderator: Dr. Tiffany Bussey, Executive Director, MIEC
Ben Skyles ‘87, CEO, Prosource360
Ben is founder and CEO of ProSource360 and is leading his company as a successful graduate of the SBA 8(a) program and is continuing to grow as an SBA certified Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB), HUBZone, and NMSDC certified MBE firm that offers management consulting, healthcare solutions, and information technology services to federal agencies and commercial markets. In 2020, the firm was ranked fourth on the Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Private Companies in the D.C. Area list. Most recently, the team’s work was recognized when the firm was named the winner of the prestigious Supplier of the Year award in 2023 and 2024 by the Capital Region Minority Supplier Development Council (CRMSDC).
Andy Newton, President, Teya Enterprise
Andy is the Chief Operating Officer at Teya Development Company, LLC. Through his 14 years with Teya, Andy has advanced through a progressive career that has contributed to the Teya family of companies growing from approximately $15 million in annual revenue when he started to more than $175 million today.
Program Agenda: 9.19.25
Friday, September 19th
Shirley A. Massey Executive Conference Center
9:00AM – 10:30AM PREPARING AND BECOMING AN INCLUSIVE SUPPLIER FOR IBM
Session Description: We will explore the end-to-end IBM procurement process.
Learning Outcomes:
• Understand process for IBM to consider a small business to be a supplier.
• Understand how to be considered for teaming partner/subcontractor relationship with IBM
• Know what goods and services IBM is looking to procure.
Matthew Mullens, Federal Small Business Liaison Officer, IBM
10:30AM –
NOON EFFECTIVE LEADERSHIP FRAMEWORKS FOR DIVERSE ENVIRONMENTS
Session Description: This session provides middle-market entrepreneurs with valuable insights into current leadership trends that can impact their scaling strategies through the management of Human Capital structures and diverse teams. Through the exploration of these trends, the sharing of real-world examples, and active participation in discussions, attendees will gain a more profound comprehension of how to successfully navigate the challenges of scaling their businesses in today's ever-evolving business landscape.
Learning Outcomes:
• Understand current leadership trends, especially relevant to middle-market entrepreneurs, and their impact on success.
• Learn how to cultivate effective leadership cultures for enhanced engagement, innovation, and team cohesion.
• Discuss resources for ongoing leadership development and practical application in scaling.
Berkley Baker, Ph.D., CEO, CIMI Solutions
Dr. Berkley Baker, CEO of CIMI Solutions, boasts 20+ years of expertise in sales, marketing, and leadership development, having advised 100+ executive teams on integrating disruptive technologies and enhancing leadership skills. His roles encompass VP of Sales and Business Development for a healthcare technology firm, strategic consulting for medical device companies, and mentoring over 1,000 leaders across various functions. As a startup coach at Georgia Tech's Advanced Technology Development Center, he has nurtured 60-80 HealthTech startups globally. He is a professor at Georgia State University's Entrepreneurship and Innovation Institute, holding a doctorate and MBA from Emory University, and a bachelor's degree from the U.S. Military Academy.
2:00PM – 3:00PM ASCEND
NATIONAL COHORT ALUMNI PANEL - EXPERIENCES AND LESSONS LEARNED
Session Description: This session is an opportunity to hear and learn from Ascend National Cohort Alumni.
Learning Outcomes:
• Understand what skills/knowledge was gained by Alumni learned from the previous program.
• Insights on how to maximize or get the most benefits out of the Ascend program.
• Strategies for working with IBM Mentors and/or Morehouse Student Consultants.
Moderator: Danita Harris, Director, MIEC Small Business Executive Program
Program Agenda: 9.19.25
Dexter Hardy, President, Ntegral
Dexter Hardy is entrepreneur, founder, investor, President and CTO of Ntegral Inc. Dexter has over 20 years of enterprise IT experience and is a thought leader in architecting “Infrastructure As Code as a Service” innovation to serve fortune brands and enterprises to achieve their business outcomes.
Tracey Grace, President/CEO, IBEX IT Experts
Kendrick Faison, President/CEO, SpatialGIS
Kendrick Faison is the visionary CEO of SpatialGIS, a leading company in geospatial technology and data management. With a robust background in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and a keen eye for innovation, Kendrick has propelled SpatialGIS to the forefront of the industry. His leadership is marked by a commitment to excellence, fostering a culture of creativity and strategic thinking.
Magha Devan, Partner, Entellimetrix
Magha is the Co-Founder of Entellimetrix and plays a vital role in acquiring and managing client engagements as well as creating world class data analytics consulting team. With over 20 years of IT Consulting industry experience, Magha has a broad perspective of what it takes to grow an organization. He has an MBA degree from Georgia State University’s J. Mack Robinson School of Business and a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from National Institute of Technology, Kurukshetra – India. In 2024, he received the certificate of achievement from the MIEC Ascend National Cohort Program.
Greg Head, Senior Partner, SmartThink Marketing Group
Greg Head is senior partner and chief marketing strategist with SmartThink Marketing Group, an award-winning market research and marketing strategy consultancy located in the metropolitan Atlanta area. With over 25 years of experience, he has partnered with numerous Fortune 500 companies and advertising agencies, helping them produce award-winning creative, launch profitable new products and revitalize older brands. Greg is a graduate of Morehouse College as well as a 2025 graduate of the Ascend National Cohort.
3:00PM - 3:30PM REFLECTIONS AND CLOSING
Victoria Washington President/CEO
Rodney Northern, Founder/CEO
Nicale Nxumalo, President/CEO
Al Turner, President
Ascend National Cohort Participants
NEWHOUSE PROJECT CONSULTING
WWW.NPCONSULTING.COM
Newhouse Project Consulting (NPC) is a certified, women and minority-owned management consulting firm specializing in organizational change management, digital transformation, and strategic advisory services. With over 20 years of experience, NPC partners with Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, utilities, and healthcare organizations to accelerate adoption and maximize ROI on enterprise-wide initiatives.
VISION IT
WWW.VISIONIT.US
Vision Information Technology Consultants (Vision IT) is a women and minority-owned small business headquartered in San Antonio, Texas. Vision IT specializes in delivering mission-critical IT and cybersecurity services to federal agencies, including the Department of Defense, the Army, the Air Force, and the FBI.
MULTIMERICA MEDIA VENTURES, LLC
WWW.MULTIMERICAMEDIA.COM
Multimerica Media Ventures (MMV) is 100% owned by Rodney Northern and is a company that operates in the media planning, buying and trafficking industry as well as the programmatic inventory resell industry. MMV is majority owner of Multimerica AdEX LLC (M AdEX) and Rodney Northern is the CEO and Founder. M AdEX is the programmatic inventory arm as well as digital manage services. Currently their clients include Fortune 500 companies like AT&T, P&G, GM, Ford, Toyota, Eli Lilly, McDonalds, Publicis, Dentsu and many others.
SOUTHPOINT CONSULTING, INC.
WWW.SOUTHPOINTCONSULTING.COM
Southpoint Consulting Inc. (Southpoint) is a Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) located in Alexandria, Virginia. We are a management and information technology consulting firm dedicated to providing superior services to our customers. We specialize in Cloud Strategy and Execution, Salesforce Implementation, Artificial Intelligence, Agile Development, and Project Management.
TURNER & TURNER CONTRACTING, LLC
WWW.TURNERBUILDS.COM
Turner & Turner is a General Contracting, Construction and Consulting firm that specializes in (DPS) Drainage, Paving, Sitework construction projects and the like.
Tiffany Newhouse, CEO
Ascend National Cohort Participants
PROFESSIONAL MANAGEMENT CONSULTING SERVICES
WWW.PMCSLLC.COM
Professional Management Consulting Services (PMCS), founded in 2006, is a trusted government and commercial consulting firm dedicated to delivering innovative and reliable solutions. Our core services—Management Consulting, Information Technology, Workforce Development, and Training Solutions—are designed to help organizations enhance performance and achieve mission success.
LIVING INVIGORATING VALUABLE EXPERIENCES, LLC (LIVE)
WWW.INVIGORATELIVING.COM
LIVE LLC is a privately held, certified Women-Owned, SBA 8(a) Small Business located in Atlanta, GA that offers a diversified set of solution practices and skilled professionals for service. Our service areas include Training, Executive Coaching, Strategic Planning, Program Management, and Executive/Administrative Support. Our customer base is both a government and commercial mix that includes federal agencies, large prime contractors and Tribal organizations.
MMC GOVERNMENT SOLUTIONS
WWW.MMCGOVSOLUTIONS.COM
MMC Government Solutions “Empowers the Possible,” delivering mission-critical solutions that help federal agencies buy better. MMC also employs technology-enabled solutions in four core areas: acquisition life cycle management, business process improvement, organizational efficiency and optimization, and human capital development. Our Core Capabilities include Procurement, Workflow Mapping, Program Management, Change Management and IT Modernization.
CASCADE SERVICES COMPANY, INC.
WWW.CASCADE-SC.COM
Cascade Services Company, Inc. is a trusted leader in environmental remediation and restoration, specializing in asbestos, lead, and mold abatement, water damage restoration, and demolition.
JJT & ASSOCIATES, LLC
WWW.JJTASSOC.COM
JJT & Associates is a professional information technology firm specializing in Cloud Transformation, Data Management, AI/ML, Networking, and SharePoint Services. As a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) and reseller, JJT & Associates (DBE, MBE) has had the privilege of serving our country and organizations of all sizes.
Dwight Franklin, President/CEO
Crystal Fleming, CEO
Richard and Jennifer Hanks, CEO
Cyrel Foote, Owner
James Small, President
Stephanie Parson, President/CEO
Jerry Brooks, President/CEO
Tonya Lewter, Owner/CEO
Doug Jackson, Co-Founder/Principal
Dr. Paula Anderson, President/CEO
Ascend National Cohort Participants
CROWNED GRACE INTERNATIONAL
WWW.CROWNEDGRACE.COM
Mission Support Services/Staff Augmentation, Information Technology Services/PMO/Application Development/IT Assessments and Organizational Development/Organizational Change Management, Professional Development, Organizational Assessments, Strategic Planning, Executive Coaching
DATACOM SOLUTIONS, INC.
WWW.DATACOMUSA.NET
We are an end-to-end technology solutions provider with over 23 years of practiced & proven industry experience in all aspects of IT including Network & Cloud Integration, Access Control, Cybersecurity, Critical Backup Power, Uninterruptable Power Systems (UPS), Facilities Maintenance, Hardware & Software Solutions, and Engineering Services.
LA VIE DEVELOPMENT, INC.
WWW.LAVIEDEVELOPMENT.COM
La Vie Development, Inc. was founded on June 9, 2006, by Tonya Lewter, who is the Owner & CEO. The company is a NYS/NYC Certified MWBE and Nationwide DBE/ACDBE/WOSB/WBENC & HUD Section 3 Firm. Our company provides versatile, innovative, and high-quality professional services in Business Development. La Vie Development, Inc. has a core competency in the "Green Energy Efficiency Industry." Our company's teaming partnerships facilitate electric vehicle charging stations equipment, installation, maintenance services and energy storage solutions.
SHARED VISION MARKETING
WWW.SHARED-VISION.NET
Shared Vision Marketing is a full-service, independently owned, industry agnostic, marketing and advertising agency that partners with ambitious brands to drive growth through strategic clarity and creative execution. Founded in 2006, the agency blends the rigor of a consultancy with the agility of a creative shop—offering a unique approach that bridges traditional advertising with data-driven marketing strategy.
PACE CONSULTING, LLC
WWW.PACE-CONSULTING.COM
PACE Consulting, LLC is a women-owned small business. PACE, established in 2007 and headquartered in College Park, MD, is a premier provider of behavioral health clinical and organizational consulting services. Our comprehensive service portfolio encompasses: strategic program management, specialized staff augmentation, customized workshops and training programs, professional supervision and expert clinical counseling for individuals, couples, families, and groups.
Ascend National Cohort Participants
K. PARKS CONSULTING, INC. (KPC)
WWW.KPCINC.COM
K. Parks Consulting, Inc (KPC) has served the Federal Government since 2008, providing innovative solutions! KPC is at the forefront of creative, customized services that meet the unique needs of Federal agencies.
BASEMEDIA, LLC
WWW.BASEMEDIA.CO
Basemedia specializes in digital marketing and media solutions, leveraging AI technologies to enhance our services. We offer AI-powered branding strategies, intelligent web design, automated social media management, AI-driven content creation, and data-optimized digital advertising to help businesses strengthen their online presence and advance their marketing strategies.
REDD SOLUTIONS
WWW.REDDSOLUTIONS.COM
Redd Solutions is a technology consulting firm that empowers government agencies, nonprofits, and small to mid-sized businesses to modernize operations and deliver impact through digital transformation. We specialize in business process automation, low-code/no-code development, and technology training that aligns with mission-critical goals.
GD RESOURCES, LLC
WWW.GDRDEFENSE.COM
GD Resources provides business management, IT solutions, professional services, and staffing support to government, commercial, and nonprofit clients. Our services include program and project management, cybersecurity, acquisition support and staffing services.
DYNAMIC SERVICE INTEGRATION CORP
WWW.DYNAMIC-CORP.COM
DSI Corporation is a management consulting firm who specializes in program management support, financial management, and business systems optimization as well as business performance transformation.
Kizzy Parks, Owner
Gregory Edwards, CEO
Syreeta Johnson, Founder/CEO
Basso Ghee, CEO
Michael Jones Owner/CEO
Veerachandran Balaji, President/CEO
Vanessa Alzate, President/CEO
Joey Hutchins Founder/CEO
Arquella Hargrove, Founder/ Chief Culture Officer
Ascend National Cohort Participants
E7STRATEGIES, INC.
WWW.E7STRATEGIES.COM
E7Strategies is a certified women and minority-owned IT consulting firm headquartered in Washington, DC. We have extensive experience in providing data, IT, and staff augmentation services for government and commercial clients nationwide.
KIRKPATRICK PARTNERS
WWW.KIRKPATRICKPARTNERS.COM
Kirkpatrick Partners is the global authority in training evaluation and performance improvement. As co-authors of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management’s (OPM) Training Evaluation Field Guide, we’ve helped set the federal standard for how learning should be measured—linking training to on-the-job behavior and mission-critical results. Our solutions include: certifications & education, custom workshops, microlearning & recertification, measurement & evaluation services, strategic services and staff augmentation.
RIGHTDIRECTION TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, LLC
WWW.RIGHTDIRECTIONTECH.COM
The company’s expertise spans across multiple service areas, including Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML), Digital Transformation, and Executive Management ConsultingOperations and Maintenance (O&M) Support.
ALCHEMY CONSULTING GROUP
WWW.ALCHEMY-CONSULTING.COM
Alchemy Consulting Group is a management consulting firm specializing in workplace culture transformation through strategic leadership development and organizational change initiatives. We partner with mid-sized to large organizations across various industries to create sustainable cultural shifts that drive employee engagement, retention, and business performance.
DESIGNOVATION STRATEGIES, LLC
WWW.DO-STRATEGIES.COM
DesignOvation Strategies combines the principles of design thinking and theories of disruptive innovation to offer out-of-the-box solutions to mission-critical challenges. Our core competency, Customer Experience (CX) and Employee Experience (EX) within Grants Management, entails redesigning all internal and external grants management processes, data analysis and reporting, communications, help desk and digital media channels as well as applications, tools and systems.
Rangena Hotaki, CEO
Soumya
Ascend National Cohort Participants
RAPID STRATEGY
WWW.RAPIDSTRATEGY.IO
Rapid Strategy is a cybersecurity and IT consulting company supporting the federal government, department of defense and commercial sector. We are currently a small business and on the GSA schedule for Highly Adaptive Cybersecurity Services, IT Professional Services and Cloud Computing Professional Services.
CYNWAVE SOLUTIONS, LLC
WWW.CYNWAVESOLUTIONS.COM
CYNWAVE Solutions, LLC is a minority-owned, Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) company that offers a full range of services that include facility support, transportation, logistics management, planning and program management.
CHIEF OF MINDS
WWW.CHIEFOFMINDS.COM
Chief of Minds is an organizational development firm. We partner with corporate, private, government, and non-profit organizations to provide organizational development, human resources strategy, staffing augmentation and recruitment, program management, workforce development, IT, and training and development solutions.
COUNTIFI, INC.
WWW.COUNTIFI.COM
Countifi replaces manual counting procedures with Computer Vision and AI technology. We improve and streamline inventory management through its cutting-edge visual recognition technology. We use computer vision and deep learning models to count inventory accurately and automatically. We provide web-based asset monitoring and initial physical inventory collection and web-based location tracking for airlines, hospitals, medical facilities, construction warehouses, residential facilities, government agencies and construction companies.
EXECUTIVE REALTY SOLUTIONS, INC.
WWW.ERSREO.COM
E.R.S. is your solution for right-of-way mowing, debris clearing, and regular maintenance and field inspections of residential and commercial real estate.
Ron Meeting, CEO
Christopher Franklin, President & CEO
Lakeisha Robichaux, CEO
David Hailey, CEO
Justin Menifee, President
Ascend National Cohort Participants
4TECH SOLUTIONS, LLC
WWW.4TECH4ME.COM
4Tech Solutions offers a comprehensive range of technology solutions tailored for federal, state, and local government agencies, educational institutions, and commercial enterprises. Our offerings include IT hardware procurement, software solutions, cybersecurity services, networking equipment, audiovisual solutions, and managed print services. We specialize in providing secure and scalable IT infrastructure, ensuring compliance with industry standards and optimizing operational efficiency.
Arella Thomas, President /CEO
ALLERAIT SOLUTIONS, LLC
WWW.ALLERAITS.COM
AlleraIT Solutions LLC (AlleraIT) is a trusted technology, management, and consulting partner, delivering innovative, secure, mission-focused solutions that empower government agencies (federal, state and local) and commercial clients to achieve operational excellence. As a certified Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB), SBA 8(a), and SWaM firm, we specialize in Agile Project Management, DevSecOps Implementation, Cloud services, Cybersecurity, Analytics & Data Science, Application Development, Project/Program Management, and Emerging Technologies (AI/ML/Automation)—backed by ISO 9001 and ISO 27001.
PROPELLED TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
WWW.PROPELLEDTECH.COM
We specialize in providing cybersecurity training, CMMC prep, cloud compliance and cybersecurity professional services via our certified registered consultants & industry leading partners.
Anwar Shahid, CEO
Lindsay Martin, CEO
Mentors
As part of the Ascend National Cohort Program at Morehouse Innovation & Entrepreneurship Center, Business Owners are paired with a Mentor. The mentor relationship will begin in October and continue throughout the course of the program until March 2025. The Mentor has committed to participating in sessions throughout this time. Below is a summary of roles and responsibilities followed by the list of assigned Mentors.
Roles and Responsibilities
Business Owner
Mentor
Own and drive the mentoring process
• Define and share personal goal(s) of mentoring experience
• Schedule mentoring sessions and have a prepared agenda/objectives for
• each session
• Mentor regularly on development progress
Be open to appreciative and constructive feedback from mentor and update
• Follow-up and be accountable
Be coachable and open to think differently
• Complete Mentoring Program Assessment Survey
• Facilitate and conduct sessions (October – March) with the
• Ascend Cohort Business Executive Leader over the course of the six-month program
• Share expertise, insights, and feedback
Discuss Business Owner’s goals, aspirations, and growth opportunities
• Provide a safe environment for Business Owner to take risks, share ideas,
• reveal challenges, etc.
• of view
Challenge Business Owner to think differently and broaden his/her point
• Follow-up and hold Business Owner accountable
Open doors to provide networking opportunities
• Provide tips to help the business navigate through the procurement process
•
• Complete Mentoring Program Assessment Survey
Mentors
Below is the list of Mentors. The Program Team will send a virtual introduction in October to the Business Owners. The Business Owner is responsible for initiating and scheduling their virtual sessions.
MENTOR
Arnold Joseph
Dexter Hardy
Magha Devan
James Patterson
Aaron Kelley
Barbara Jones-Brown
Darrell McGraw
Charles Weems
Angela Brown
Lisa King
Earl Camp
Adam Borodin
Lisa Newell
Rebecca Barbour
Matthew Mullens
Fiona Saunders
Serge Shahabian
Matthew Timmerman
MENTOR TITLE
Supply Chain Executive Consultant
President Partner
President /CEO
CEO
Founder/CEO
President /CEO
CEO
President
Managing Partner/CEO
Vice President, Business Development
Federal Procurement Leader
Associate Partner, Federal Client Solution Executive
Small Business Liaison Officer
Small Business Liaison Officer
Associate Partner-Deal Leader-Defense & Intelligence
GWAC Center Leader
Deal Lead, Federal Civilian
MENTOR COMPANY
Supply Chain Link
Ntegral, Inc
Entellimetrix
PFS Consulting, Inc.
UpSlope Advisors
Freeing Returns
Q2 Consulting Solutions, Inc.
Weems Design Studio (WDS)
Victory Global Solutions
Contract Acquisition Partnership, LLC (CAP) Now Corp
ELC Fellowship Program
Entrepreneurial Leadership Consulting (ELC) Fellowship Program
The ELC Program is a six-month consulting engagement that complements the Ascend National experience. Morehouse students, guided by faculty and business advisors, act as consultants—researching, analyzing, and delivering recommendations to help small businesses address real-world challenges.
The program is designed to:
● Foster professional development and entrepreneurial leadership skills.
● Provide actionable business recommendations for participating companies.
● Create a structured yet flexible framework for collaboration and learning.
The program runs from September through March in three phases:
● Foundation (Sept–Oct): Students are introduced to your business, conduct initial research, and define the scope of the challenge.
● Deep Dive & Development (Nov–Jan): Students conduct in-depth analysis, participate in feedback sessions, and develop draft recommendations.
● Finalization & Presentation (Feb–Mar): Students refine their recommendations, deliver a comprehensive report, and present findings to you and the program team.
THE KEY PLAYERS
The ELC is a collaborative effort, with each participant playing a distinct role:
Student Business Advisors
Mentor student teams by ensuring recommendations are realistic and actionable. Special thanks to the Project Management Institute for their support in this program.
• Ebe Ebere ‘06
Steven Adams II ‘23
• Brian A. King Sr. ‘80
• Whitney Barone
• Derek Stanley ‘00
• Malcom Talbert ‘16
• Amos Johnson Jr., Ph.D. ‘96
• Morehouse Team
Oversee the process, maintaining academic rigor and alignment with program objectives.
● Program Manager (ELC) - Odera Agbim
● Director, Student Programs - Kylan Kester
ELC Student Fellows
Morehouse Students
Function as consultants, applying academic knowledge to business problems.
STUDENT NAME
Price Aristilde
Andrew Brown
Chase DeVaughn
Karim Diop
Dohnoven Dixon
Jivonne Feliciano
Danteisaiah Grange
Jadyn Green
Ranye' Holmes
Ian Jackson
Azola Martin
Adeyemi Mitchell
Theophilus Minja
Jonathan Neal
Jerremy Sword Njuguna
Jakylan Fuller Reed
Jaire Richardson
Carrington Ross
Elias Sanderson
Jalen Silas-Burch
Shawndel Turner
CLASSIFICATION
MAJOR
Business Administration, Marketing
Mechanical Engineering
Communications
Business Administration, Accounting and Finance
Computer Science and Philosophy
Business Administration, Economics
Kinesiology
Business Administration, Marketing
Business Administration, Finance
Business Administration, Finance
Communications
Business Administration, Marketing
Business Administration, Management
Economics
Business Administration, Finance
Computer Science
Economics
Business Administration
Business Administration, Finance
Business Administration, Marketing
Business Administration, Finance
ELC Student Business Advisors
Amos Johnson Jr., Ph.D. ‘96, Coca-Cola Endowed Chair of Leadership Studies, Andrew Young Center for Global Leadership and Associate Professor of Computer Science, Morehouse College
Dr. Amos Johnson Jr. is the Coca-Cola Endowed Chair of Leadership Studies and an Associate Professor of Computer Science at Morehouse College. His doctoral research focused on developing pattern recognition algorithms for identifying individuals based on their walking patterns and detecting behavioral patterns in video surveillance data. He is deeply committed to delivering high-quality instruction, enhancing the student learning experience, and developing Men of Morehouse into leaders who create a more positive and just world.
Brian A. King, Sr. ‘80, Principal - Urban Renaissance Development, Adjunct Professor - Morehouse College and Co-Founder/Director - Morehouse Real Estate Institute
Brian A. King, Sr. is a seasoned real estate and finance professional with over thirty years of experience, recognized for entrepreneurial leadership in co-founding the Morehouse Real Estate Institute, Urban Renaissance Development, and Sanctuary-Residential—firms advancing urban development and modular housing initiatives in Atlanta. His career achievements include securing multimillion-dollar financing, structuring large-scale development projects, revitalizing distressed investments, and receiving Ernst & Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year award for successfully turning around a communications company. As both an investor and educator, King mentors future business leaders at Morehouse College and holds an MBA from the Wharton School along with a summa cum laude BA from Morehouse College.
Malcolm Talbert ‘16, Ph.D. Student in Global Strategy, Georgia State University and Director of Campus & Young Professional Engagement, PMI Atlanta
Malcolm Talbert is a consultant, advisor, and small business owner. He has led go-to-market strategy, digital transformation, and internationalization projects for top firms, with a primary focus on deep tech. Currently a PhD student in Global Strategy at Georgia State University, Malcolm researches entrepreneurial ecosystem development in emerging markets. Beyond his professional pursuits, he has practiced, coached, and taught traditional karate, and remains deeply committed to mentoring young professionals as they embrace their personal call to leadership and become agents of change in their communities.
Derek Stanley ‘00, Managing Director, Accenture
Derek is a senior executive in Accenture's Americas Song practice, serving as Practice Delivery Lead, with over 25 years of experience in technology and enterprise strategy implementation. He has led programs across industries like Consumer Products, Retail, Manufacturing, and Utilities, specializing in Digital Commerce, Marketing, Customer Service, Systems Integration, and Supply Chain. Known for his communication skills and delivery discipline, Derek drives growth through enablement and continuous improvement, and holds a Mathematics degree from Morehouse College.
ELC Student Business Advisors
Steven Adams II ‘23, Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) Strategy Consultant, Deloitte
Steven Adams II is a Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) Strategy Consultant at Deloitte, where he helps companies execute large integrations and divestitures. A proud Morehouse graduate with a degree in Economics, Steven combines strategic thinking with an entrepreneurial mindset. He is passionate about building businesses, creating opportunities, and inspiring the next generation of leaders to turn ideas into impact.
Eberechukwu Ebere ‘06, Project Manager, QTS Data Centers
Eberechukwu Ebere is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP)® with over 10 years of consulting experience, including 6 years with PwC across U.S. and international markets. He has led large-scale, capital-intensive projects with a focus on infrastructure, strategy, and sustainable impact, while also bringing an entrepreneurial mindset to building innovative solutions. He is passionate about mentoring and serving others, helping the next generation of leaders grow in both their professional and personal journeys.
Whitney Barone, Project Manager, Euro Vision Printing
Marketing, Sales Support, Business Operations, Training & Change Management. I'm a results-focused project management professional with 20 years of experience in Advertising and Print Project management. Focused on developing and streamlining for more impactful business communications and creative processes.
Virtual Schedule
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
S
44th & 3rd Bookseller: www.44thand3rdbookseller.com
Mocha Pops: www.mochapops.com
Just Add Honey: www.justaddhoney.net
Try Deas: www.trydeas.com
Onyx Media Services: www.onyxmsgroup.com
Eva-Lution Studios LLC: evalutionstudios@gmail.com
DP Design Group LLC: www.dpdesigngroup.com
Tropical Express: www.tropicalexpressatl.com
Lillie Glass Blowers: www.lillieglassblowers.com
Mixed Up Events: tony@mixedupevents.net
OUR PARTNERS
THE MIEC PLEDGE
AT MIEC, WE STAND UNITED AS A COMMUNITY OF RESILIENCE , HOPE , AND ACTION .
W E REAFFIRM OUR COMMITMENT TO ECONOMIC JUSTICE AND EMPOWERMENT:
We will stay focused and committed to achieving our dreams.
We will reject barriers as unchangeable; we are the drivers of progress.
We will speak out boldly, ensuring our voices and stories are heard.
We will use challenges as opportunities to move forward.
We will prioritize our well-being.
We will support and uplift our community.
We will embrace innovation, creativity, and a bold vision for the future.
We will succeed because we believe in our purpose, potential, and power.
