Superb Women October 2021

MAHISHA DELLINGER

Mahisha Dellinger is chasing her dreams! Brilliant, beautiful and bold, Mahisha is making moves and she is an expert, in marketing, branding, pitching, presenting and more.

Hailing from Sacra- mento, CA., Mahisha Dellinger is the Founder of CURLS Beauty Brands – a natural hair care brand founded in 2002. She is the author of Against
All Odds: From the Projects to the Penthouse. Read the book and learn how Mahisha is resilient, astute and focused. She’s a winner! Mahisha is also a philanthropist and OWN TV (Mind Your Business with Mahisha) personality. A wife and mother, she has a BS degree in Business Administration with a concentration in marketing from California State University – Sacramento. She worked as a marketing manager at Intel before venturing into the world of entrepreneurship where she has excelled and mentors others. She has business coaching conferences,”Black Girls Making Millions”- helping other women business owners navigate the business landscape through mentoring and her vast network. Go to www.curls.biz and you’ll fall in love with Cashmere +Caviar!

LINDA ANN ADAMS

Linda Ann Adams loves Jackson State University! She is a loyal, supportive alum and she continues to make her alma mater proud with her service.

Linda Ann Adams is the 5th of 6 girls born and raised in Canton, MS. A graduate of Velma Ware Jackson High, she received her B.S. in Computer Science from Jackson State University. Linda has been employed with DSC Communications Corporation Linda has served as Recording Secretary of the Dallas/Ft. Worth JSU Alumni Chapter, Southwest Regional Board Member of the JSU National Association, and Corresponding Secretary of the DMCBAA. Linda was selected as the 1997-98 JSU DFW Chapter’s Alumnus of the Year, has been included in the International Biographical Center’s “International Youth in Achievement” directory, and was recognized by Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Dallas as the “Rookie Big Sister of the Year” for 1998. Linda is a member of New Mt. Zion Baptist Church, where she is a member of the Adult Usher Ministry, the Nurses Guild, and the Anniversary Committee; as well as Church secretary and pastor’s secretary.

RUTH CHANEL “NELL” BROWN

First Lady Ruth Chanel “Nell” Brown is an award-winning educator who sings, volunteers and serves.

Ruth Chanel “Nell” Brown is a member of New Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Dallas, TX where she is a Sunday School Teacher, sings in the Women’s Chorus, and works in New Mount Zion Day Care Center. Nell graduated from Ennis High School in 1980. After finishing High School she continued her education by attending Navarro Jr. College where she graduated in 1982. Nell later attended UTA where her major was Education. She was employed in Arlington School District for 19 years. A wife and mother, Nell received her diploma in Biblical Studies from the Faith Bible Institute and is an Instructor for the National Baptist Sunday School and B.T.U. Congress. Nell is a 2015 graduate of Dallas Baptist University with a Bachelors Degree in Christian Ministries. Nell is a volunteer for North Texas Food Bank and has helped at battered women’s shelters, homeless shelters, and Viola’s House Dallas.

CHERYL RICHARDS

Cheryl Richards is a leader in the industry and makes Dallas look better than GOOD as an executive with Visit Dallas.

Cheryl Richards is the senior vice president, chief diversity & inclusion officer for Dallas Convention & Visitors Bureau now Visit Dallas. A graduate of LBJ High School and a certified tourism ambassador, she received a B.A. in journalism from the University of North Texas. A member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority,Inc., she is a member of several business community/ civic organizations including Texas Diversity Council, Downtown Dallas, Inc. Board of Governors, Greater Dallas Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, University of North Texas Mayborn School of Journalism Board of Directors, NAACP and North Texas Business Leadership Network. A consummate professional, Cheryl has received humorous honors for leadership, distinguished service and community service. She loves old Westerns and classics, like the “I Love Lucy” show.

KATRICE R. HARDY

Katrice Hardy is a “Louisiana native, diehard Saints and LSU fan who loves helping journalists tell great stories

Katrice Hardy is the executive editor at The Dallas Morning News and previously worked at the USA Today Network, Indianapolis Star, The Greenville News and the Virginian-Pilot. She studied at LSU after graduating from University High Lab School -LSU. Hailing from Baton Rouge, actually Port Allen, she’s an award-winning journalist who has led several newsrooms as they achieved numerous accolades. A consummate professional with the highest ethical standards, Katrice is smart, intuitive and visionary. A wife and mother, Katrice is a past board member of the Associated Press Media Editors and a member of the National Association of Black Journalists, where she was a former president of the Hampton Roads, VA chapter. She served on the board of the South Carolina Press Association and was a graduate of Furman University’s Diversity Leadership Institute for senior leaders. Katrice is a history maker. She is Black History! She is OUR history!

CHELLE LUPER WILSON

Chelle Wilson is every woman! She’s beauty, brains and bodaciousness.

Chelle Wilson received a BA degree in Broadcast Journalism from Langston University and studied Multicultural Women’s & Gender Studies (M.A.) at Texas Woman’s University. She is currently pursuing her doctorate degree. An accomplished writer with works appearing in Texas Metro News, Garland Journal and I Messenger; Chelle is a much sought after speaker and facilitator. Chelle has worked as a Marketing Brand Manager for Sally Beauty Company, District Sales Manager for Allstate, and in advertising for ProLine Corporation. She is a member of Business Owners Idea Café, Langston University Alumni Association, Marketing to Women Network, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (International Secretary), Links Inc. and Dallas-Fort Worth Association of Black Journalists. Chelle is a former Ms Langston University and in 2019 she received the Angelo Henderson Community Service Award from the National Association of Black Journalists. A wife and mother, Chelle has raised thousands for scholarships and she mentors young girls and aspiring journalists, in addition to stressing the importance of STEM programming to high school students.

LA’WONDA PEOPLES

LaWonda Peoples hails from the great city of Selma, AL but lives in Fort Worth.

La’Wonda Peoples attended Alabama Lutheran Academy and College and is a graduate of Clark Atlanta University where she received a Bachelors degree in mass communications. She reti-red from American Airlines where she was a manager. A NCTRCA Certified Minority Vendor, this mother and grandmother is the President/CEO/Founder of Eventfully Yours Company. Absolutely a pro at event planning and utilizing the resources and expertise of a cadre of professionals in providing services and goods, LaWonda is the person you want to call to insure that your event is exquisite in every way. The former chair of the UNCF – Dallas area Advisory Council, La’Wonda is a member of several Chambers of Commerce and she also has an impressive clientele that depends on her because of her quality experience, presentation and delivery of services and goods.

DANETTE ANTHONY REED

Danette Anthony Reed is International First Vice President for Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Danette Anthony Reed is a Life Member, initiated in the Gamma Chi Chapter at Northwestern University in Evanston, IL., where she received her BS degree in Industrial Engineering. She also received an MBA from SMU. Danette is a Charter Member of Omicron Mu Omega Chapter in Dallas, TX. A retired corporate executive for PepsiCo, Frito- Lay Division, she was the first African American woman Plant Director for Frito-Lay and was awarded a PepsiCo Chairman’s Award, which recognizes and rewards distinguished and extraordinary leaders. Danette is a Charter member of the Greater Denton County Chapter of The Links, Incorporated; a member of Carrousels of Dallas and Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc.; a Board Member for the YMCA of Plano; a former Girl Scout Leader; and former member of the Parks and Recreation Board for the City of Carrollton, TX.

EBON’NAE “FAITH” PIGGEE

Ebon’Nae “Faith” Piggee’s journey is wonderfully inspiring and motivating. When you consider the sacredness of her work, you have to realize she is a blessing!

Ebon’Nae “Faith” Piggee is a Doula Mentor/ Placenta Instructor at Royal La Mére Birth & Wellness. The Founder and Owner at Dallas Royal Doulas, she is a former Certified Child-birth Educator at Organic Birth Experiences/DeSoto Birth Class. Ebon’Nae is a Certified Birth Boot Camp Educator – specializing in newborn care, breastfeeding, Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (Vbac) prep, and doula care. Hailing from Louisville, KY, where she graduated from Maple Heights High School and then studied at Paul Quinn College, receiving a Bachelor’s degree in Communication. She was a member of NABJ, the Quinn Quill (campus newspaper) and also received presidential honors. Ebon’Nae is a former elementary school teacher. A wife and mother, Ebon’nae is grounded in her faith and commitment to providing the best birthing experience for the entire family.

MARIA DOUGLAS REEVE

Maria Douglas Reeve is a self-proclaimed “news junkie.” Her love of journalism has catapulted her into a position few Black women in the world have held.

Prior to assuming the position of Executive Editor of the Houston Chronicle, Maria Douglas Reeve held several positions at the Star Tribune and the St. Paul Pioneer Press. She began her career as a journalist at the Bradenton Herald. A graduate of Davidson College with a B.A. degree English, she received a Master’s Degree in Journalism from the University of Maryland. A very active member of the National Association of Black Journalists, Maria received Certified Change Agent credentials from Hearst. A wife and mother, Maria is also a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Smart, strategic and focused, Maria has a charming personality and is committed to journalistic excellence.

MILDRED S. CARRETHERS

Mildred Square Carrethers has received the Chief- tainship Title from the Village of Ogidi, Nigeria’s Yoruba Tribe.

Mildred Square Carrethers was born in Scotlandville, LA, the eighth of 12 children. She was active in the family church and helped on the family farm. Upon graduating from high school, Mildred, on a full academic scholarship, received a BS degree with high honors, in accounting from Southern University. After graduation she worked as a financial analyst for Humble Oil Company’s (Exxon). She received an MBA in Finance and Economics from Loyola University and became a Certified Public Accountant. She spent a three-year assignment based in West Africa as a controller. From 2008- 2015, Mildred was a partner in HBP Group (operating company of Louisiana IHOP Restaurants.) A member of The Links, Inc, The Girl Friends, Inc, and Carrousel, Inc.; she is a life member of the Scotland High School and Southern University Alumni Associations; NAACP; and founding member, Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture.

JEANNIE M. COE FLOOD

A true gem, Jeannie M. Coe Flood is a born leader and great team member!

Jeannie M. Coe Flood, a native of Moss Point, MS, received her B.A. in Sociology from Tougaloo College. A past President of the Dallas Metroplex Council of Black Alumni Associations; a charter member of the Tougaloo College DFW Alumni Chapter; a charter member of the Creative Communicators Chapter of Toastmasters International; and a member of the Dallas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Jeannie is committed to youth, education, and community service. She was a 2018 induction into the Tougaloo College National Alumni Association Hall of Fame. As a member of New Mt. Zion Baptist Church she served as a Girl Scout Leader. She was selected as an Outstanding Young Woman of America for 1988 in recognition of outstanding ability, accomplishments and service to the community. She has been employed with the federal government in asset management and resolution services.

BENNYFER LYNETTE BRIDGEWATER

She’s a Summa Cum Laude graduate, a community servant, and yes, she’s a Jaguar.

A native of Plaquemine, LA, Bennyfer L. Bridge-water was initiated into the Beta Psi chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., at Southern University where she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering, graduating Summa Cum Laude. Her excellence in her field was recognized even more when she was named Electrical Engineering Student of the Year her senior year. Bennyfer continued her education at the University of Texas at Dallas where she received her Master of Science degree in Electrical Engineering. A Professional Registered Parliamentarian in 2019, she is a member of various organizations including the National Association of Parliamentarians; American Society for Quality; and Louisiana Association of Professional Engineering and Land Surveying Board. A Sr. Software Quality Engineer at Raytheon, Bennyfer is a past president of the Omicron Mu Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., she is also a certified graduate advisor.

NENA SHREE TAYLOR

Nena Shree Taylor, a Dallas, Texas native, community leader and servant always knew she wanted to be an Alpha Kappa Alpha Woman!

Nena Shree Taylor received her Bachelor of Science degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management from Wiley College in May 1988. She began her career at Wyatt’s Cafeteria and was blessed to continue her career at her alma mater as the assistant director of admissions and recruitment from 1990-1997. Wiley College opened doors for her to move to Dallas as the director of admissions and recruitment at Paul Quinn College from 1997-2009. Ms. Taylor later landed a great opportunity, as a senior academic advisor with Dallas County Community College District-North Lake College; where she currently works in Student Services and Enrollment Management. A graduate of Conway Senior High School, she is a member of Friendship-West Baptist Church and is a dedicated and life member of her beloved alma mater, Wiley College.

KMEAL ONA WINTERS

Kmeal Ona Winters is a native of Kansas City, MO, and graduate of Westport High and in her spare time, she enjoys hanging out with friends, traveling, cooking, bike riding, skiing, and any thrill-seeking adventure.

Kmeal Ona Winters received a BS degree in Business Administration and Accounting from University of Kansas and a MBA degree with a concentration in financial consulting and accounting from Southern Methodist University. Kmeal has decades of asset management and client reporting experience in the commercial real estate industry. She is currently employed as a vice president in asset management at Spirit Realty Capital. Kmeal is a member of Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW), Urban Land Institute, National Black MBA Association and certified commercial investment member of the CCIM Institute. She has previously served on the board of Credit Union of Texas, CREW Dallas, CREW in the Community, DFW Chapter of the National Black MBA Association, and the Energy Corridor Managed District in Houston, Texas. A member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, she has also volunteered for Girls, Inc., Habitat for Humanity, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America and many others.

CARMEN MURRY BRANCH

Carmen Murry Branch is a go-to person for corporate communications.

Carmen Murry Branch hails from Great Bend, KS and graduated from Great Bend High School. She studied Journalism Business Communications at the University of Kansas, where she received her Bachelors Degree. Carmen is the vice president of Corporate Communications- External Communications at Comerica Bank. A former regional director of Marketing & Communications – South Central Region for the March of Dimes; Assistant Director of Communications and Media Relations for the Big 12 Conference, Student Assistant for University of Kansas Athletics. She is a member of the Public Relations Society of America – Dallas Chapter and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. – Collin County Alumnae Chapter. Carmen has worked locally and regionally with Delta Sigma Theta because she is committed to community and public service. She is passionate about arts and culture, children, education, and health; with a special interest in financial literacy, especially for underserved and communities.

LUMBIE MLAMBO

Lumbie Mlambo is a publisher, a game changer, and an international voice for the voiceless.

Lumbie Mlambo is the CEO/ Founder of JB Dondolo, Inc., a non-profit organization that helps underserved and impoverished communities struggling with the lack of clean water. She is a Global Goodwill Ambassador(GGA), UN Global Leader, UNA- USA Global Goals Ambassador, UNA Women Member, member of ForbesWomen Forum and Global Citizen Forum. Lumbie is a work/ life balance expert, a humanitarian, a voice for the voiceless, and an award-winning motivational speaker. A wife and mother, Lumbie was born in Zimbabwe is also the publisher of Equanimity Magazine. She is a graduate of Indiana University South Bend and Texas Woman’s University. She received the Mavericks Community Shining Star Award (recognizing her organization’s work internationally) by the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA). Lumbie serves as the advisor for The Global Futurist Initiative which accelerates youth action through the power of expression. Also, she is a member of ForbesWomen and Global Citizen Forums.

DR. PAMELA JOHNSON

Dr. Pamela Johnson is a skilled and licensed professional with more than 20 years of experience as a practitioner, educator, and corporate consultant.

Dr. Pamela Johnson has successfully facilitated individual counseling and coaching, career guidance, group training and staff development. She has had a private practice working with individuals impacted by relationship/family issues, substance abuse, HIV/AIDS, and gender/cultural diversity issues. She consults organizational leaders in Cultural Diversity, Sexual Harassment, Leadership, and Performance Solutions. Dr. Pam is the author of “AIDS and African Americans”, and “Everyone is Multicultural: Bridging Cultural Influences with Leadership Success.” Dr. Johnson received a BA in Communications from the University of Houston where she became a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority; an MA in Business and Human Development from Amberton University; and, a MS in Counseling and Guidance and a Doctorate Degree of Education in Counseling and Guidance from Texas A&M -Commerce. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), National Certified Counselor (NCC), and Senior Professional Human Resources (SPHR).

TRAMEIKA VAXTER

A graduate of Long Beach Polytechnic High School, Trameika Vaxter, approaching her 25th anniversary, is a wife and mother; as well as a seasoned PR Pro!

Trameika Vaxter is the President of PeRfect Plan Public Relations, LLC., providing strategic planning, media relations, brand management and event PR; management services; social media strategies and plans; and more. Trameika attended California State University-Fullerton and an MBA in Marketing from University of Phoenix and received a BA in Communications with an emphasis on Public Relations. She received her certification in Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace from Essec Business School and is a member of the Fort Worth Metropolitan Black Chamber of Commerce Leadership and Fort Worth Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) Greater Fort Worth Chapter. She previously served as Executive Vice President of Ware & Associates, Inc.; Public Relations Senior Account Executive at Cooksey Communications; Public Relations Account Executive at LAGRANT COMMUNICATIONS Aviation, American Airlines, and Harley- Davidson accounts.

GWENDOLYN JONES

Gwendolyn Jones has walked the path of recovery from victim to survivor to an overcomer; and knows that healing is possible.

Gwendolyn Jones is the founder/ executive director at ARISE! International, Inc., which is devoted to helping survivors heal emotionally and spiritually from the impact of sexual violence. Out of her pain to heal ARISE! International, Inc (Adults in Recovery and Informed Against Sexual Exploitation) was established in 2007. Gwen’s work has been recognized by the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office, DeSoto City Council, Lancaster Police Department, Domestic Violence Advisory Commission Advisory Commission (DVAC), Genesis Women Shelter & Support, Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship and other community groups and organizations. She has completed certification for the Sexual Assault Training Program (SATP) from the Texas State Attorney General Offices administered by the Dallas Area Rape Crisis Center, Turning Point Rape Crisis Agency and Parkland Victim Intervention Program (VIP). Gwen has written onsexual abuse and her outreach has significantly benefited others. Born in Monroe, LA., Gwen came to Dallas when she was 12. A former manager of methods and procedures at AT&T, she graduated from Lincoln High School.

CANDACE E. WICKS

Candace E. Wicks definitely has a testimony worth hearing. She is smart and visionary; resilient and focused. Candace is a survivor

Candace E. Wicks was named Dallas ISD Teacher of the Year in 2007 when she taught at Erasmo Seguin Community Learning Center in Oak Cliff, and she had a big celebration when she eventually retired from the District after a long and impressive career as an Early Childhood Educator. Candice attended Bishop Dunne Catholic School. She studied government and sociology at Huston–Tillotson University and political science at Bishop College. She also served as an elected delegate to the 2014 Texas State Democratic Convention. Also a graduate of Texas Woman’s University, she has served as a City of Dallas Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center Advisory Board Member. As a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, she served as a representative of the Dallas Pan-Hellenic Council, and also as the South West Regional Director of the National Pan Hellenic Council. She’s Division 1 Parliamentarian for the American Legion Auxiliary and a long-time member of New Hope Baptist Church.

KATRYNA LISTER WARREN

Katryna Lister Warren is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and has had an impressive career and a legacy of service.

Katryna Lister Warren, a native of Dallas, Texas, is the youngest child of Odell and Lillie Lister. Ms. Warren graduated from Bishop Dunne High School and has served on the board of directors. Following high school she attended the University of Oklahoma where she graduated with a BS degree in Chemistry and was initiated into the Kappa Psi chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. Since graduation, she worked for more than 30 years in the medical device industry. Katryna is a member of Concord Missionary Baptist Church, where she serves as a deaconess and is active in Thrive, the Marriage Ministry. Her other interests and hobbies include needle work, word puzzles, movies, and traveling. Ms. Warren loves to collect Christmas tree ornaments for every travel adventure. A wife and mother, Katryna is the director of Regulatory Affairs Vision Care for Alcon Laboratories.

LUERETHA JONES-SLACK

Lueretha Jones-Slack is a community servant who loves her community and her alma mater, Morgan State University.

Lueretha Jones-Slack graduated from Lowndes County High School and is a proud graduate of Morgan State University where there is the Lueretha Jones-Slack Endowment for a Business Administration major who is in financial need. She has also served as president of the Dallas/Ft. Worth Alumni Chapter of Morgan State University Alumni Association. Lueretha is a community servant who has had an impressive career in banking at Wells Fargo Home Mortgage as an Emerging Markets Manager and lastly as Vice President- Corporate Public Affairs, Community Reinvestment and North Texas CRA market manager at Comerica Bank A world- traveller, Lueretha has served on the board of The Jeffries Street Learning Center, Cedar Hill Public Improvement District and Turner 12 Inc.

TIFFINNI A. YOUNG

The Honorable Tiffinni A. Young, Former Dallas City Councilwoman, is a proud native of Texas and Lincoln Humanities and Communications Magnet and Florida A&M University alum.

Tiffinni A. You- ng hails from Dallas, TX.. notably Pleasant Grove! A graduate of Lincoln Humani- ties and Communi- cations Magnet, Tiffinni went on to graduate from Florida A&M University (political science) and spent the first two years of law school at the University of Arkansas and then spent one year as a visiting student at Texas Wesleyan School of Law. She has been a member of the Golden Gate Missionary Baptist Church since she was a child. She was appointed to the inaugural City of Dallas Youth Commission in 1994 and later appointed to the Park & Recreation Board. She also represented District 7 on the Dallas City Council. A member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, she also serves on the Maurine F. Bailey Cultural Foundation and BaylorScott&White Health & Wellness Center Board. Tiffinni is the CEO of TAY Strategies and host of the TAY Strategies Live podcast, offering:
• Community Engagement
• Media Relations/ Training
• Non-Profit Management
• Political Campaign Management
• Public/Government Affairs
• Public Speaking Coaching

VEE JORDAN

Vee M. Jordan is considered to have high ethical standards, in addition to being hardworking, compassionate, creative and supportive.

Vee M. Jordan is an award winning publisher and was recently honored as the Psi Chapter (Iota Phi Lambda Sorority) Outstanding Soror of the Year. Currently, she serves as chapter journalist and chair of the public relations committee and she has also represented the sorority on the local, regional and national levels. Vee, who retired from Dallas County Community College District (now Dallas College) after more than 40 years as a computer specialist, was lauded for her commitment, quality work and work ethic. She is highly revered and celebrated. Vee attended South Oak Cliff High School, where she played in the band and was Captain of the majorettes for the Golden Bears Marching Band. The Dallas Cowboy fan went on to attend the University of Houston. An only child, she is also the proud mother of a son.

CARRINGTON WHIGHAM

Carrington Whigham is a born leader, but also a great team player. Engaging, organized and prepared, she is serving with distinction at FAMU!

Carrington Whigham is making Dallas proud as the President for Florida A&M University Student Government Association. A fourth-year Broadcast Journalism major and Theater minor Carrington graduated from Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts. Since the age of eight, Carrington has performed at The Black Academy of Arts and Letters. She has performed Hamilton “My Shot” with Broadway’s Miguel Cervantes, and has been cast in several professional shows. A proud member of the Original Beta Alpha Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc, where she serves as the Connections chair, Carrington continues to excel academically and has served as one of Texas Sen. Royce West interns, through the Dr. Emmett J. Conrad Leadership Program; working at UT Southwestern Academic Medical Center, in the office of Communications, Marketing, and Public Affairs, for two summers. Last year she was Vice President of FAMU’s Student Government Association!

VALERIE BALLARD

We have a problem with housing for veterans and Valerie Ballard is working to eradicate that issue. She is committed and works tirelessly for veterans, addressing homelessness and employment.

Valerie Ballard is the executive director of Operation Tiny House. A Dallas native and former newspaper publisher, she has extensive experience in Business Management/Administration and Nonprofit Development, Advertising, Marketing and Public Relations. Valerie is also the founder of a nonprofit organization that provides transitional and permanent housing, job training and employment opportunities for Veterans experiencing homelessness, North Texas Capacity Builders. She attended El Centro College, studying Small Business Administration/Management. Grounded in faith, Valerie is committed to and passionate about the work she does for veterans. A graduate of David W. Carter High School, she actually has grown up knowing and caring about veterans and continues her work to ensure affordable, safe, clean and functional housing for those who have served their country.

DENITA LACKING -QUINN

Denita Lacking-Quinn has a smile that is so radiant. She is hard-working, eager to learn, a joy to be around; and she’s raising her children to be servant leaders just like their mom!

Originally from Milwaukee, WI, DeNita Lacking-Quinn works for the City of Dallas as a Senior Outreach Specialist. Previously she was a community engagement coordinator for the City of Glenn Heights. She is also the founder of DFW Black Bloggers and enjoyed stints as the President and CEO of Achieve PR and as a producer at Tribune Media. DeNita has also worked at DART, DFW Elite News and Fidelity Mortgage. She studied at Dallas College, the University of Phoenix (BBA in Business Administration Dartmouth. Denita serves as Vice Chairman – Board of Directors for Native American Business Association – NABA and she is on the board of Arts Mission Oak Cliff, Southern Dallas Progress Community Development Corporation, and Board member of Friends of Fair Park. A member of the Psi Chapter – Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, she is also a past board member of the Press Club of Dallas.

VANNA COLLINS

World Traveller Vanna Collins is a Braid Stylist, certified yoga instructor and reiki practitioner, philanthropist, media personality and “full-on lover of life!”

A Dallas native and graduate of Lincoln Humanities and Communications Magnet High School, Vanna Collins says her “ultimate mission is to share the correlation of the Mind, Body & Spirit and how to successfully combine the three for a total body and life experience.” The former VP of Community Affairs at Southern Dallas County Business & Living Magazine, studied at Texas Woman’s University and owns Demure Model Management. She created TuffBaby’s Organic Essentials, an organic product line that boasts hair growth products, herbs, household sprays, essentials oil blends, apparel and more.Check her out at www.vannacollins.com. Braids By Vanna 4041 W. Wheatland Rd. | Suite 112 Dallas, Texas 75237.The Vanna Collins Show. For guest inquiries and interviews: info@vannacollins.com

GLORIA WERTHING REYNOLDS

Gloria Werthing Reynolds is a passionate woman who is committed and a true community servant who has a legacy service.

Gloria Werthing Reynolds is a non-profit executive, DEI strategist, and professional development leader with passion for mentoring. The co-founder and CEO of the Werthing Foundation, Gloria is managing director of Werthing Pathways to Success & Girl Power Academy and also world as University Recruiting Lead for Korn Ferry and Program Manager/Recruiter for INROADS. Hailing from Jackson, TN, she received a BBA Degree from Tennessee State University, and an MBA from the University of Dallas. A wife and mother, she is a proud and active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and Links Inc. She is an experienced executive who is skilled in strategic and event management, team building and fundraising. Gloria is full of energy and brings joy into any room she enters. Her commitment of excellence and service speaks volumes about why she is superb!

CHANNING HILL

There’s a new CHILL in town and this one you definitely shouldn’t underestimate! Channing Hill has a warrior spirit, fighting to put an end to injustices.. She is Black History in the making!

Channing Hill is a junior at Howard University, studying Legal Communications. Active with the NAACP, serving as president of the Chapter on campus, and also active in Texas; Channing is part of The Live Movement campus organization that co-organized the sit-in at the Blackburn Center. A graduate of Trinity High School in Texas, Channing has interned in State Rep. Jasmine Crockett’s office and she has also participated in Sen. Royce West’s Dr. Emmett J. Conrad Leadership Program. Passionate about fighting injustices,Channing excels on the debate team at Howard and she uses her skills to articulate the issues and feel solutions. Channing is fiery, focused and committed. The recipient of numerous scholarships, Channing is about service, scholarship and seeking justice.