LIBBIE T. LEE
Libbie is a recognized professional in nonprofit management, business development, grant writing and fund development. She has exceptional capacity in community development and building and maintaining strong working partnerships
As executive director of The Golden SEEDS Foundation, Libbie Lee brings her commitment and passion to the Bottom community and is energized with the opportunity to be a part of the transformation of this historic neighborhood. As a Dallas native, born and raised in South Dallas, she has witnessed the many destructive things that have happened over the years, and is now part of the community change that is coming. A graduate of LIncoln High School in Dallas, she is dual degreed, graduating from Huston Tillotson University and earned an MBA from Amberton University. She is also the managing director and principal of LTL International, a human resource and business management company.
SHERRYE E. WILLIS
Sherrye E. Willis’ mission is to propel leaders to unlock their greatness from the inside out.
Founder and President of Alliance for Greater Works, in 2001 Sherrye answered a call to serve organizations working in under-resourced communities. She’s also the author of Launching Greater Works: Turning a God-Inspired Vision into a 501(c)(3) Nonprofit, which details her founding journey and offers inspiration and practical advice to help leaders turn their visions into a reality. Previously she was executive director for Esping Family Foundation. Sherrye received her BBA from Northwood University, and executive MBA with honors from Grand Canyon University and she is currently a doctoral student, pursuing a degree in intercultural/multicultural and diversity studies from Biola University.
ANDREA SANDERS
Andrea Sanders leads by example. As she climbed the corporate ladder, she found time to serve her community.
A native of San Antonio, Andrea Sanders began working for Oncor almost 25 years ago and served as the Dallas Manager for Customer Operation where she carries out Oncor’s strategic point of contact for municipal, legislative and escalated customer issues with the City of Dallas. She also worked as the Weatherization Director at Houston Sheltering Arms and as an Energy Training Specialist for Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs. Andrea served as a chairman of Greater East Dallas Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and Oak Cliff Chamber. She is a 2011 graduate of Leadership Dallas and 2013 graduate of Leadership Texas.
CLAUDIA FOWLER
Claudia Fowler is engaged and focused as she stays on top of the issues in her community.
Claudia Fowler made history when at the age of 26 she was elected to the Wilmer Hutchins ISD School Board, becoming the youngest African American to hold this post. She has served as President/ CEO of the Joppa South Central Coalition for Neighborhood Redevelopment, Inc., and as a member of Mayor Mike Rawlings’ Grow South Advisory Council. Formerly the Community Liaison at Urban League of Greater Dallas and North Central Texas; Claudia received her BA degree in Accounting from Bishop College, where she was secretary of her class. A member of the Top Ladies of Distinction and a 2016 Unsung Hero of Eta Phi Beta Sorority, Claudia also hosted the radio show, Queen of Community Conversation and she’s listed in Who’s Who in Black Dallas.
ROBIN E. HUTCHISON GORDON
Robin E. Hutchison Gordon participated in Ramsey Solutions Financial Coach Master Training and she has an impressive resume in non profit management and leadership.
Robin E. Hutchison Gordon hails from Saint Paul, Minnesota and is financial coach for Gordon Financial Coaching. She served as president and chief executive of the Can! Academy Education Foundation, Inc. She also has served as executive development director for Texas Can Academies and executive director with the Todd Wagner Foundation and After School All-stars. She was a volunteer with AmeriCorp and served as an executive board member of Circle Ten Council, Boy Scouts of America. She has also served as a volunteer with Lone Star Casa and Rockwall County Helping Hands Food Pantry. Robin received a Bachelor of Science degree in early children education and family studies and a Masters of Science degree in recreation and leisure management.
CARMEN GUTTER
You have to be compassionate and committed to do the work that Carmen Gutter has been doing for quite some time.
During Carmen Gutter’s career she has managed as many as 85- 90 cases simultaneously. She has experience in writing policy, enforcing compliance and leading teams both professionally and per- sonally. She currently works at Dallas County Juvenile Department as a re-entry specialist and she has been a child protection investigator for the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. A graduate of Florida A&M University with a BA in Criminal Justice and Corrections, Carmen has also enjoyed stints at Safe & Sound Inc and Wisconsin Department of Corrections.
MOLLIE BELT
Mollie Belt has received numerous awards for her civic work and commitment to community service, as well as the publisher of the Dallas Examiner.
Mollie Belt has been a newspaper publisher for almost 36 years. She has served as the 1st Vice Chair of the National Newspaper Publishers Association and vice president of the Texas Publishers Association. A former long-time government employee working as an employment counselor for the Texas Employment Commission, she also held several positions for the city of Dallas. Mollie is the recipient of numerous awards including the National Newspaper Publishers Association’s 2020 Publisher Lifetime Achievement Award. She received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Society/Psychology from the University of Denver, after attending Spelman College for a year. A mother and grandmother, Mollie was born in Dallas and graduated from Lincoln High School. She is a 50+ year member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
ATTY. TONYA TARPEH
She’s every woman – smart, compassionate, loving and dedicated. Atty. Tonya Tarpeh serves on the Board of Directors for the Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center, Single Mothers Interchanging Love, Empathy and Support (S.M.I.L.E.S.), and The IMPACT Movement.
Attorney Tonya Tarpeh is a partner in West and Associates LLP. A graduate of Superman College, she received her Juris Doctor Degree from Temple University Beasley School of Law in 1995 and was admitted to the New Jersey State Bar; then in 1997 she was admitted to the Texas State Bar. She has also earned a Professional Certificate in Municipal Finance from The University of Chicago’s Harris School of Public Policy in 2017. Her legal experience includes serving as an Assistant Regional Attorney for the Texas Department of Human Services, an Assistant Attorney General for the State of Texas, and private practice. A health enthusiast, Tonya is the loving mother to her two daughters and an active member of Jack and Jill of America, Inc.
THE REV. FRANCES CUDJOE WATERS, J.D.
Talk about servant leader, businesswoman, scholar, and more, that’s Rev. Frances Cudjoe Waters, JD.
Rev. Frances Cudjoe Waters, J.D. is the Founder and C.E.O. of FCW Consulting and the African American Renaissance, L.L.C. A highly-regarded Educational, Diversity and Organizational Strategic Consultant. Rev. Dr. Frances serves as Chair of the Dallas Task Force on Confederate Monuments Born in the Bronx, New York, she graduated with honors from Stanford University and Harvard Law School and has served as an Associate Pastor in the United Methodist Church. She currently serves on the Executive Board of the SMU (Southern Methodist University) Meadows School and on the Education and Engagement Committee of the Dallas Museum of Art. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and a proud wife and Jack and Jill mom.
THE HONORABLE NICOLE COLLIER
When elected in 2013, she became the first woman to represent House District 95, in Tarrant County, and in November 2018, Rep. Nicole Collier was re-elected to her fourth term in office.
The Honorable Nicole Collier is a respected attorney, small business owner, grandmother and mother of three who has spent her life working to obtain the American Dream. As a single mother of two before finishing high school, she was bolstered by both her faith and family to continue her education all the way through law school and beyond. Rep. Collier graduated from the University of Houston and the Texas A&M University School of Law. Rep. Collier is also a partner at West & Associates, LLP, specializing in commercial and general litigation, employment law, public finance and school law. Whether its legislation banning e-cigarette cells, Affordable Care Act, creating opportunities for HUBs or voter suppression, Rep. Collier is on the job, all the time!
HONORABLE CAROLYN KING ARNOLD
Yes, the Honorable Carolyn King Arnold wears a lot of red. Some might say it is because she is a Delta while others say she is on fire for her community, her people, and the world.
The Honorable Carolyn King Arnold was first elected to the Dallas City Council in May 2015, besting several opponents to win the seat outright without a runoff, garnering 51% of the vote. The Honorable Carolyn King Arnold has resided in Dallas for more than 40 years and worked as an educator in the Bishop Dunne Catholic School and Dallas Independent School District School. In addition to teaching, she has also been actively engaged in the community fighting for civil rights, social equity and the pursuit of justice. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Southeastern Oklahoma University, a Masters of Education from the University of North Texas and the Doctorate of Divinity from Grace International Seminary. A proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, her hands are full as she addresses several issues including: supporting local businesses, improving the quality of life for citizens, making the City safer; all while governing during a pandemic.
HONORABLE SHAUNTE ALLEN
An advocate for children, Councilwoman Shaunte Allen is passionate about building stronger communities and educational systems.
Shaunte Allen is a councilwoman for the City of Glenn Heights, TX and a professor at Tyler Junior College. A former lecturer for the Borough of Manhattan Community College/ CUNY and former department chair and professor at Dallas College-Cedar Valley, she attended W.W. Samuell High School. She holds a bachelors degree in literary studies and a Masters degree in secondary education. Re-elected in November 2021, she is serving her second term. Councilwoman Allen has an extensive background in volunteerism with several groups and programs, including the NAACP, Habitat for Humanity, Urban League, Young Professionals, National Action Network and the African American Read-In.
SHARON JONES-SCAIFE
The talented Sharon Jones Scaife is focused and using her many talents to have a positive impact on youth.
A native of Marvell, Arkansas, Sharon Jones Scaife is the fourth of 15 children. Following her older siblings, she attended the University of Arkansas in Little Rock where she earned a bachelor’s degree in graphic design/illustration. A widow, mother and grandmother, Sharon is a graphic artist who spent almost a decade at Jones Custom Products. She is the owner of SJS Graphic Arts, an accomplished author, and a magazine publisher; which led to her founding Coffee Creek Media Group; an independent, family-owned company. A member of Mt. Hebron Missionary Baptist Church, The Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce, NIBA (New Image Business Associates), AfricanSisters.com, American Business Women Association (ABWA), and the Parenting and Genesis of Praise Ministries at Mt. Hebron Missionary Baptist Church.
KIM BIZOR TOLBERT
Beautiful voice, beautiful personality and a commitment to service and taking care of business; that’s Kimberly Bizor Tolbert.
Kimberly Bizor Tolbert is Chief of Staff to the City Manager where she directs operations and administrative affairs of the City Manager’s Office. Hailing from Tyler, TX, previously she spent almost 15 years with North Texas Tollway Authority in executive positions and before that as Assistant Director of Finance and Administration and Assistant to the City Manager for the City of Dallas. Kim received a BA in Political Science and Government and a Master of Public Administration from the University of North Texas; with the help of the prestigious Patricia Roberts Harris Public Affairs Fellowship. She was also a contract manager for the State of Texas HHHS.
KRISTEN PRICE
A member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Kristen was initiated into the Amazing Zeta Eta Chapter and is now a member of the Dallas Alumnae Chapter.
Kristen Price is a graduate of the University of North Texas with a Bachelor’s of Business Administration Degree and she later earned a Masters of Science Degree in Human Relations and Business from Amberton University. She is a member of MetroTex Association of Realtors and she has served with numerous other realty organizations. Kristen began her real estate career with Keller Williams Realty, Lake Cities in 2004 and in 2009 she opened Hylton Homes Realty, LLC; specializing in all aspects of residential real estate. She earned her ABR (Accredited Buyer Representative) designation, GRI (Graduate Realtor Institute) designation, MRP ( Military Relocation Professional) certification, PSA (Pricing Strategy Advisor) certification SFR (Short Sale Foreclosure Resource Specialist Certification), SRS (Seller Representative Specialist) designation, TAHS (Texas Affordable Housing Specialist) certification and the, TRLP (Texas Realtor Leadership Program) designation.
NANETTE LEE
Nanette Lee is funny, talented and she can cook!
Described as a radio personality, stand-up comedian and celebrity cook, Nanette Lee is the life of the party; putting a smile on everyone’s face. A Dallas homegirl, Nanette Lee attended A. Maceo Smith New Tech High School where she studied drama and theatre arts. She later attended Dallas County Community College, Nanette was part of the historic Skip Murphy and Company Team that woke listeners up on weekdays with dogs, laughter and a wealth of information. Also the host of Phat Tuesdays, Nanette is always engaged in the community.
MALLANE SCOTT
Mallane Scott has dominated as a realtor so she’s ready for these challenging times!
Mallane “Lanee” Scott says her true passion is finding the right fit for clients and getting them in their dream homes. A real estate broker with Lanee Scott Realtors, Mallane Scott has more than 20 years of experience as a realtor and she also worked as a senior oversight/operation manager for Vendor Resource Management, as an analyst for Electronic Data Systems. A South Oak Cliff High School alum, she attended Dallas County Community College and then attended Northwood University. Lanee ranked in the Top 500 Agents in RE/MAX Texas 2015 and 2016 • REMAX PLATINUM CLUB 2016 and 2017.
CHASTITY HYLTON
As a young agent in a crowded field, Chastity Hylton said her clients come to her because she is knowledgeable and up to date with this technological innovations.
Chastity Hylton is a Real Estate Agent with Hylton Homes Realty. “I go above and beyond to ensure my clients are making an informed decision and bring my outgoing personality and a positive attitude throughout every stage of the transaction,” she said. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Administration of Justice from Texas Southern University. Shortly after graduation, she began her career in law enforcement and obtained a Texas Peace Officer license. She also had an interest in real estate and In December 2019 she became the first fully licensed agent at Hylton Homes Realty; also using her law enforcement background to provide information on safety tips and what is legal in the state of Texas.
DEBRA KAYE HOARD JONES
We celebrate Debra Kaye Hoard Jones’ life. We are saddened we didn’t salute her prior to her transitioning, because she was definitely superb!
Debra Kaye Hoard Jones graduated from Pinkston High School and entered the Xerox Corporation Marketing Education Center, working in Customer Service in-house and in the field. Late in the 70s, Ebony Fashion Fair announced their annual lineup to 49 cities highlighting a ‘Size 14 Cover Girl Model’. Dallas was very proactive. Debra Kaye was the first professional full figure model for The Kim Dawson Modeling Agency and the rest is history. In the Ester Davis Showroom, she was tops in sales with buyers, specialty boutiques and classic ladies-of-distinction. She worked for State Rep. Helen Giddings for many years and was recognized for her work serving communities and solving problems. Debra Kaye’s work as a DIFFA Board Member brought new light to the organization and her beloved African American community was the beneficiary of her style and expertise.
ATTY. NICOLE R. TAYLOR
Nicole R. Taylor is the President and Managing Attorney for The Taylor Law Firm, P.C. and also serves as a Partner with The Cochran Law Firm Texas with offices in Dallas and Houston, TX.
Nicole R. Taylor is a first-generation college student who received a BS degree in Accounting from Clemson University and a law degree from Southern Methodist University School of Law. A wife and mother, Nicole is a breast cancer survivor. In 2019, she and her family hosted the “Cheers to More Breast Cancer Survivors!” gala that raised money for single mothers battling breast cancer. If Nicole is not with her family, she devotes her time and resources to her lifetime commitment to Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., where she currently serves in leadership on the National, Regional and local levels.
ALYSON RAE LAWSON
You may remember this member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority for her overwhelming victory in the on-line competition sponsored by 7-Eleven that ended with her opening her first store in Arlington, TX.
A graduate of Hampton University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Management, Alyson Rae Lawson has a Master’s Degree in Professional Accounting and an MBA from Texas A&M University – Commerce. While at Hampton, she was Vice President of Texas Pre-Alumni Organization, a member of Women’s Caucus (Student Government Association), and Hampton University Women’s Golf Team. Alyson worked as a Manager of Budget and Financial Reporting for the Hampton-Newport News Community Services Board, Manager of Business Analysis for GSFS Group, and Store Manager for 7-Eleven. A motivational speaker, Alyson is a multi-unit Franchisee under RaeLawson Enterprise.
SHERRI DOLL RICHARDSON
Talk about the best manicure in the world… Sherri Doll Richardson’s hands are like magic and will soothe your soul. She’s a licensed massage therapist, whose hands are a treasure.
With a passion for the field and an unwavering commitment to her specialty, Sherri Doll Richardson LMT is an expert in changing the lives of their patients for the better. She previously worked at Doll’s House of Beauty and now she is the CEO of Ash Britt Jene’ CELEBRITY SPA and Salon; where she is the spa director and celebrity lifestyle coordinator to the stars. Fun-loving and also focused on building her empire, she is also a life member of the NAACP. A graduate of Polytechnic High School in Fort Worth. Sherri Doll attended Tarrant County College, Seymours Modeling Agency and Wendy Wards School of Modeling. She also graduated from BTC and ATI NRH.
BERNADETTE NUTALL
The Honorable Bernadette Nutall loves children and is passionate about buildign a better education system. She is definitely a servant leader.
A wife and mother, Bernadette Wright Nutall, is co-founder and executive director at Circle of Support, Inc.. Hailing from Killeen, TX, she graduated from Killeen High School and Sam Houston State University. Bernadette has a B.A. in business administration and she attended the Certificate of Competence Training Program in instructional leadership at the University of North Texas in Denton. She also attended several sessions of the Summer Changes Everything National Conference at Johns Hopkins University Center for Summer Learning. Before joining the board, Bernadette was a community liaison to the district. Bernadette attends Concord Baptist Church and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
TRUDY BULLARD
Trudy Bullard is the VP of Sales and Client Relations for 24 Carat Speakers. In her free time, she also teaches and loves to dance; including swing, step, salsa and line dancing.
The youngest of five and a first-generation college student, Dean’s list scholar and graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, Trudy Bullard earned a BS degree in Advertising with a minor in Business Administration and was initiated into the Epsilon Beta Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. She has three decades of sales and training experience, key account management and creating and implementing diversity, equity and inclusion strategies in the animal health, automotive financing, educational, technology, medical devices industries and non-profit organizations. Trudy has also received multiple awards for her leadership and sales performance including: Rookie of the Year, Top Performer and multiple President Club recognitions. Trudy is an avid reader, music lover and thoroughly enjoys taking long nature walks with her dog, Drake.
PHYLLIS J. BEDFORD
As president and CEO of the Leslie K Bedford Leadership Academy, Phyllis J. Bedford has enriched so many lives.
Hailing from Neches, TX., Phyllis J. Bedford is the author of “A Personal Journey ‘Finding Wings with Shattered Pieces’” and she offered a free series, “You Too Can Soar,” inspiring women to thrive in difficult times. Phyllis lost her only daughter to violence on September 11, 1992. She is a living example of a survivor as she has dedicated her life to helping others. Her goal is to inspire women to believe that simple surviving is not enough; they too can deal with their misfortune and loss and develop the strength to soar. She studied at Amberton University and graduated Magna Cum Laude with a degree in Business Administration. She also worked at Mobil Oil Corporation.
LINDA JONES
Linda Jones love life! The talented writer and speaker is captivating and authentically genuine. Check out her writings and teachings!
Veteran journalist Linda Jones also is known as a “writing doula.” She coaches writing sessions that help individuals effectively put their joyous and sad thoughts and feelings on paper. One of her trademarks is helping individuals write their own obituary…and… use journaling as healing for grief. Linda is the founder of A Nappy Hair Affair. Hailing from Akron, OH. where she went to South High School, she studied journalism and Black Studies at Kent State University. A member and supporter of the National Association of Black Journalists and the D/FW Chapter, she previously worked at the Sun-Sentinel, Detroit News and Dallas Morning News. Check out her WEB SITE: thewritingdoula.com and follow her on TWITTER: @ manelock PHONE: 214-803-3920
KASSANDRA THOMAS
She’s beautiful, fun-loving, compassionate, smart, resilient and loyal. Kassandra Thomas is about family and she lives each day to the fullest.
Kassandra Thomas is an entrepreneur who manages her country singer/song- writer daughter. Hailing from Miami Beach, Flo- rida, this business-min- ded super strategist is the president/owner of Kassandra Entertainment and chairwoman of Noble Hart Library. She is about the business of taking care of business and Kassandra not only manages careers, she does it with style and grace while also looking good and having fun! Marketing, styling, negotiating contracts, scheduling, public relations and more; she knows the entertainment industry and how to take care of business.
CINDI BARKER
In her spare time, Cindi Barker (Cindi B) likes to volunteer for a number of different community events across the Metroplex. A proud grandmother, she works wonders in the kitchen. She’s a joy to be around — sincere, honest and loving.
A graduate of Eastern Hills High School, Cindi Barker (Cindi B) hails from Fort Worth and attended Tarrant County College and University of Phoenix. Cindi B has been in radio for over 25 years (all in the Dallas/Fort Worth market). She started her career working with the legendary Tom Joyner on his top-rated morning show. Over the course of her career, Cindi has worked as a morning show producer, midday personality and news talk producer. In addition to Radio One Dallas, she worked for Service Broadcasting (K104 and KKDA), KVIL-FM and KRLD-FM. For Cindi B, it’s all about connecting with her listeners and making sure they have fun while they’re listening. Ever since she came to Radio One Dallas in 2012, she’s consistently been the life of the party. You might have also heard here at numerous events, including for Black Women’s Wall Street Networking; most recently.
TARSHA POLK HEARNS
Tarsha Polk Hearns is the Marketing Lady! An advocate, author, entrepreneur, and personal brand strategist, Tarsha believes in empowering women and minorities to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.
In need of a public speaker, executive coach or marketing consulting, call Tarsha Polk Hearns. Currently the director of the LiftFund, she manages the day-to-day operations of the center; including grant management, strategic programming and providing guidance and connections to resources and funding solutions for small business owners. Since May 2003 she has been known as the Marketing Lady – the person you want to call on if you want to create a unique and irresistible brand. She has taught at Brookhaven Community College and she’s also an authorized and certified by Constant Contact to present seminars and webinars on email marketing and social media marketing. Tarsha graduated from Old Dominion University with a BS Degree in Occupational and Technical Studies and she received her MBA in Marketing and eBusiness from the University of Phoenix.
ROSE BLAIR
Rose Blair is highly-respected for her level of professionalism and service. She is an absolute joy to work with because she takes care of business.
Rose Blair is the Director of Dallas Metropolitan Small Business Develop- ment Center for Dallas County Community College District. Previously she has worked as a Project Management Manager for Capital One, Coordinator of Grant Management and Compliance and Director of Corporate and Community Relations for DCCCD. A former vice president of operations for Howland PR, Inc., Rose really made an impact! Talk about a consummate professional who is organized, strategic and just brilliant, Rose has also worked at the American Heart Association, operated Event Logistics by Rose, Inc., and also worked as a Mary Kay Consultant.
KIMBERLY SIMS
A long-time member of the National Association of Black Journalists, Kimberly Sims is the Director of Public Involvement at HNTB and she has worked as Director/Vice President, Public Engagement for OCG PR; as public information officer for the City of Dallas and as a PR specialist for the American Red Cross.
A graduate of Texas Woman’s University with a Bachelors degree in Mass Communications and a Masters degree in Business Administration, Kimberly attended Trinity High School. She also participated in the Graduate Marketing Certificate Program at SMU’s Cox School of Business. A member of Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church where she held several positions, Kim is celebrating her 25th year as a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. She’s a mother and a grandmother. Among her numerous honors, she was named Member of the Year, WTS International, Dallas/Fort Worth Chapter and she is a recipient of the Pride Communications Award – 35Express Project. Kimberly enjoys: Reading, traveling and performing community service. Even as a college student when she interned at the Dallas Weekly, Kimberly has exhibited the highest level of professionalism and excellence.
