2023 Speakers

Dr. Pernessa C. Seele, Founder and CEO of The Balm In Gilead, Inc., a not-for-profit organization, is a phenomenal trailblazer. Dr. Seele is celebrating over 30 years of providing vision and leadership in areas of technical support to strengthen the capacity of faith institutions in the United States and Africa to eradicate health disparities by promoting health education and services within their local communities. 

Born in the heart of the south, this Lincolnville native always share a special love for South Carolina.  Dr. Seele received her Bachelor of Science degree and Master of Science from Clark Atlanta University in 1976 & 1979, respectively, later receiving her Doctor of Humane Letters from the College of New Rochelle, NY, in 2007. 

As a pioneer and community activist, Dr. Seele is known for her work in forging public health & faith-based partnerships for engaging individuals in health promotion and disease prevention interventions. Time Magazine 100named Dr. Seele One of the Most Influential Persons in the World in 2006; Essence Magazine, in its 35 Anniversary issue, named Dr. P one of the 35 Most Beautiful and Remarkable Women In The World. Clark Atlanta University honored Dr. Seele with the 2008 Pathway of Excellence Award, citing her as one of its most outstanding graduates of all time. In May 2010, Dr. Seele was selected as 21 Leaders of the 21st Century of Women E-News in New York City.

October 2017, His Eminence, Timothy Michael Cardinal Dolan, Archbishop of New York, bestowed the Pierre Toussaint Medallion upon Dr. Seele. 

Publishing her first book Stand Up to Stigma! How to Reject Fear & Shame in 2017. Dr. Seele is an honorary member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. 

Bishop Horace E. Smith is a man gifted with a passion for God's Word coupled with a love for God's people. He has a contagious spirit of generosity that overflows in every facet of his life. As pastor of the Apostolic Faith Church and an attending physician specializing in Pediatric Hematology/Oncology at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago (formerly Children’s Memorial Hospital), Dr. Horace E. Smith has treated bodies and souls for three decades.  Bishop Horace E. Smith M.D. was born and raised on the south side of Chicago, Illinois. Bishop Smith graduated as an honor student from Lindblom High School and went on to obtain a Bachelor of Science Degree (with honors) Chicago State University, and M.D. from University of Illinois Medical Center.

With 25 years of combined academic and vocational experience in ministry, psychology, and leadership, Dr. Khaalida Forbes has dedicated her entire life to the service of people. Her calling journey led her to receiving a Masters of Clinical Social Work, and a Masters of Divinity degree from Howard University, as well as a Doctorate of Ministry degree in Prophetic Preaching from United Theological Seminary. Her mantle lies in fostering deep transformation through the teaching and preaching of the word of God.

Dr. Forbes is the Founder of Khaalida Forbes Enterprises. This firm seeks to offer opportunities for transformation in the emotional, mental, relational, and spiritual aspects of people’s lives. Through the tools of therapy, empowerment sessions, leadership development, and customized consulting, the belief is that one's emotional health can be strengthened.

She is also the Co-Founding Pastor, alongside her husband Pastor Chris Forbes, of Truth City Church in Hyattsville, MD.

Gospel Music Recording Artist, Detroit, MI

Vashawn Mitchell’s 25+ year career in music is a testament to the power of songs as he celebrates the release of his 10th project fittingly titled, Chapter X. A native of Chicago, IL, a city considered the birthplace of gospel music, the genre naturally had a profound role in shaping Mitchell’s creative voice. His love for the artform led him to become one of the city’s foremost choir directors, Music Directors and eventually a Minister of Music. Holding these positions at a young age allowed VaShawn to develop a gift for producing powerful musical moments in the collective church experience.

After contributing songs to successful albums with his Pastor and church choir, Mitchell bravely launched his solo career; although as an artist, VaShawn has never behaved as a solo act because he always masterfully brings others along for the journey through the aptly titled moniker and ethos known as VaShawn Mitchell & Friends. With each project, VaShawn continued to prove himself a much-loved singer, songwriter, and producer of inclusive musical moments. This was most evident on Mitchell’s third and best-selling release, 2010’s Triumphant. The project delivered the gospel mega-hit and most played gospel song of 2011, “Nobody Greater” along with songs continually sung by churches and other gospel groups all over the world like crowd favorites “Chasing After You” and “His Blood Still Works.”

He also maintains his corporate and philanthropic partnerships with Denny’s, Big Brothers and Big Sisters and the Norman Youth & Arts Foundation, named in memory of his grandfather.

Dr. Jamal- Harrison Bryant combines sound Biblical teaching, business acumen and political insight to propel the Body of Christ to action and greater levels of faith. Since his youth, Dr. Bryant has prevailed against the odds – rising from G.E.D to Ph.D. Prior to pastoring, he served as the national youth and college director of the NAACP for six years, where he helped to mobilize over 70,000 youth worldwide in non-violent campaigns.

Dr. Bryant, a third-generation minister, was the founding pastor of Empowerment Temple AME Church in Baltimore, Maryland, acclaimed as the fastest-growing African Methodist Episcopal church in the denomination’s 200-year history. With an undeniable gift to bridge generations from the Civil Rights movement to the Black Lives Matter era, Dr. Bryant incites change in the faith community. His ability to reach across social, economic and political barriers has helped people to not only experience the life- changing gospel of Jesus Christ, but to activate success in their everyday lives. His ministry has become an incubator for entrepreneurs, homeowners, and the like. Additionally, programs under his guidance have aimed to spread the Gospel, develop strong leaders, empower the economically disadvantaged, and challenge social injustices. In December 2018, Dr. Bryant was appointed the Senior Pastor of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Lithonia, Georgia. His leadership efforts have already begun to strengthen the multi-generational bond among members, expand community outreach, cultivate families and expand the church’s cultural significance.

The Reverend Dr. Brandon Thomas Crowley is an African-American pastor, preacher, author, and scholar in religion, theology and queer theory. Since 2009, he has served as the Senior Pastor of the Historic Myrtle Baptist Church in Newton, Massachusetts, one of America's oldest Black congregations founded by formerly enslaved persons at the end of Reconstruction and one of the nation's few open and affirming historically Black churches.

In addition to his pastoral role, Dr. Crowley is a Lecturer in Ministry Studies at Harvard University's Divinity School in Cambridge, Massachusetts and has taught courses at Boston University, the Epsicopal Theological Seminary of the Southwest, the New York Theological Seminary, and the Meadville Lombard Theological Seminary in Chicago, IL. Reverend Crowley earned a Ph.D. in Church and Society and a Master of Sacred Theology with a certificate in social justice from Boston University's School of Theology. He also earned a Master of Divinity from Harvard University's Divinity School and a Bachelor of Arts in Religion with a certificate in moral cosmopolitan pastoral leadership from Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia. Reverend Crowley’s manuscript is titled Queering Black Churches: Dismantling Heteronormativity in African American Congregations with Oxford University Press. His scholarship reflects his commitment to challenging societal norms within African American faith communities while forging innovative pathways for the future.
Beyond his pastoral and academic roles, Dr. Crowley also serves on various boards and is a leader in several communal organizations. He is the Executive Director and Chief Curator of the African American Lectionary and serves as an inaugural member of the Council of Religious Practitioners and Scholars for the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. Additionally, he is an active member of the Harvard Alumni Council and membership selection committee and the Newton-Wellesley Hospital Community Benefits and Needs Assessment committees. Ordained in the Progressive National Baptist Convention of America, Inc., and licensed by the National Baptist Convention of America, Dr. Crowley brings a wealth of wisdom and dedication to his work. He resides in Boston with his husband, Tyrone Sutton, a principal in the Boston public school system, and their beloved 14-year-old Maltese pup named Bishop.

Dr. Renita J. Weems is a biblical scholar, a minister, and an author whose scholarly insights into modern faith, biblical texts, and the role of spirituality in everyday lives has made her a highly sought-after writer and speaker for more than four decades. Rev. Dr. Weems is a thinking woman of faith who seeks to reconcile the conflicts between a spiritual hunger for the Sacred with a womanist thirst for revolutionary justice. Dr. Weems has numerous books, commentaries and articles on biblical interpretation, prophetic religion, sexuality and religion, women’s spirituality, and blacks and women in the academy. She has been a commentator on documentaries, podcasts, radio shows and national conferences on a wide range of topics. Since the Supreme Court’s 2022 landmark Dobbs v, Jackson’s Women’s Health Organization Dr. Weems has joined with other clergywomen in spearheading discussions in the black church on the topic of black women in the church and reproductive health justice.

Chef Sherri, a low country chef from the Sea Islands off the coast of South Carolina, brings 35 + years of culinary experience into the intimacy of your home helping to make all your dining experience amazingly satisfying. With a culinary passion fueled with memories that only a great meal can create, Chef Sherri is now transforming the typical dining experience by sharing her culinary talents by becoming a personal chef, hosting fine dining dinner parties and corporate events. Also, she does private cooking classes and meal planning for your personal interests. Chef Sherri Whitmire believes that more than cooking skills are passed down through the kitchen over great meals. Bringing people together in love through food is what she aims for by crossing international lines through food sources to connect people of all cultures.

Founder, Chairman, and CEO, Mindful Meditation Ministries, Inc, Jacksonville, FL

Bishop Rudolph McKissick, Sr., is the Founder, Chairman and CEO of Mindful Meditation Ministries, Inc., in Jacksonville, Florida. This ministry teaches applicable tools, practices and biblical principles, to gain greater clarity, deeper connections and understanding, while creating a stronger prayer practice that renews spirit, mind, and faith journey. This ministry conducts Silent Retreat Experiences for Pastors and Lay Persons for a spiritually, mentally and physically restorative experience.

Bishop McKissick, Sr. serves as Pastor Emeritus of Bethel Baptist Institutional Church, located in Jacksonville, Florida. On January 31, 2014, Bishop McKissick, Sr., retired after 48 years as the Senior Pastor. However, he now serves as Pastoral Counselor and serves at his leisure. Bishop McKissick, Sr., is the longest serving Pastor in the church’s history. He was raised from a child in Bethel, served in the Choir, Male Chorus Choir Director, Assistant Church Clerk, Church School Teacher, Assistant Deacon and Deacon, before the Lord called him to Pastor his beloved Bethel. He believes the measure of his success in ministry is accredited to his love for people and his hands-on ministry style. His longevity in ministry is attributed not to anything he’s accomplished, but to those he has served and continues to serve.

During Bishop McKissick, Sr.’s tenure as pastor, an Educational Building was erected which now bears the name of “Rudolph W. McKissick, Sr.” A city block of property was also purchased which currently houses the Main Sanctuary and Family Life Center. The Jacksonville City Council recognized his many noteworthy accomplishments and renamed a portion of Hogan Street as Rudolph McKissick, Sr. Boulevard in his honor.

A passionate scholar and lifelong learner, Bishop McKissick, Sr. earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Edward Waters College and received Honorary Doctoral Degrees from Bethune Cookman University and Edward Waters College. He has also received advanced training at Tuskegee Institute, the Music Institute of Columbia University, Princeton University and Luther Rice Seminary.

Bishop Rudolph W. McKissick, Jr., is the Senior Pastor of the Bethel Church, located in Jacksonville, Florida. McKissick returned to Bethel in 1995 to share leadership with his father and has since succeeded him as the sole Senior Pastor of the church. Under our Bishop’s leadership, Bethel has become known as The Bethel Experience, a worship known for his vibrancy, energy, and diversity. His teaching has resulted in a church that has transitioned into a church where generations worship. Bishop McKissick is a powerful messenger of God who has been afforded many national platforms for proclamation, among them being the morning preacher at the prestigious Hampton University Ministers and Musicians Conference as well as the featured conference preacher in the evening; the conference preacher at the John Malcus Ellison Convocation at Virginia Union University (Now the John Ellison/Miles Jones Convocation) and being inducted into the Morehouse School of Religion Board of Preachers. Bishop has also served as a professor at United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio, as a doctoral mentor, where students have been selected to sit in a learning cohort, sitting under his academic mentorship as they work towards their earned Doctor of Ministry degree. In the United program, McKissick has graduated from five doctoral classes.

Cookie Johnson is a successful entrepreneur, author and philanthropist. Johnson uses her platform to raise awareness against HIV/AIDS, advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community, and encourage women spiritually and physically. She has a strong spiritual foundation and through speaking engagements and support for non-profit organizations seeks to uplift and build the community.

A businesswoman at heart, in 2009 Cookie used her fashion degree and experience to launch a premium denim line, CJ by Cookie Johnson. CJ by Cookie Johnson was an aspirational collection of premium denim that combined style, comfort, sophistication for women with curves. After closing her premium denim company, Cookie ventured on to become a New York Times bestselling author, with her memoir Believing in Magic. Release in September 2016, it tells her story about love, overcoming adversity, and keeping God’s faith.

Cookie Johnson is a graduate of Michigan State University. She is a devoted wife, married to Earvin “Magic” Johnson for over 30 years, mother to their three children, André, Earvin Johnson III (EJ), and Elisa and grandchildren, Gigi and Avery. She serves on the board of SodexoMAGIC and is proud to be a member of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture Council.

Winnie Byanyima is the Executive Director of UNAIDS and an Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations. A passionate and longstanding champion of social justice and gender equality, Ms. Byanyima leads the United Nations’ efforts to end the AIDS epidemic by 2030. Ms. Byanyima believes that health care is a human right and was an early champion of a People’s Vaccine against the coronavirus that is available and free of charge to everyone, everywhere.

She holds a master of science degree in mechanical engineering from Cranfield University and an undergraduate degree in aeronautical engineering from the University of Manchester.

Rev. Dr. Yvette Flunder, a San Francisco native, has served her call through prophetic action and ministry for justice for over thirty years. The call to “blend proclamation, worship, service, and advocacy on behalf of those most marginalized in church and in society” led to the founding of the City of Refuge United Church of Christ in 1991. In 2003, Rev. Dr. Flunder was consecrated Presiding Bishop of The Fellowship of Affirming Ministries, a multi-denominational coalition of over 100 primarily African American Christian leaders and laity. She is a graduate of the Certificate of Ministry and Master of Arts programs at Pacific School of Religion and received her Doctor of Ministry from San Francisco Theological Seminary. Bishop Flunder is a DEMOS board member and Senior Fellow at Auburn Theological Seminary and Andover Newton Seminary. She has also served as an Adjunct Professor and speaker at Pacific School of Religion and numerous seminaries and universities including Auburn, Brite Divinity, Chicago Theological, Columbia University, Drew, Duke, Eden, Howard, Lancaster, New York Theological, and Yale. She is also an award-winning gospel music artist and author of Where the Edge Gathers: A Theology of Homiletic and Radical Inclusion.

As director of Virginia Commonwealth University Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, Robert A. Winn, M.D., is leading the nation in establishing a 21st-century model for promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the oncology workforce, optimizing cancer health care outcomes for all and spearheading interdisciplinary approaches to cancer disparities research. Just the fourth director of Massey since its 1975 National Cancer Institute designation, Winn oversees a center comprised of nearly 150 scientists and clinical investigators. Leading by example, Winn is nationally recognized for his community engagement efforts in promoting new approaches to building trust among populations previously disenfranchised from healthcare or excluded or abused in research. Most recently, during the pandemic, Winn launched a nationally heralded Facts & Faith Fridays conversation series. This initiative creates a dialogue between science, community, and faith leaders to combat medical mistrust within the African-American community. Hosted guests have included Jill Biden, Ed.D., Anthony Fauci, M.D., Ned Sharpless, M.D., and Francis Collins, M.D., Ph.D. Winn is also the namesake of the Robert A. Winn Diversity in Clinical Trials Award Program, a $114 million training and education program in partnership with the Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation.

Gospel Music Recording Artist

The incomparable Crystal Aikin is a world-renowned Gospel singer-songwriter from Tacoma, Washington, and the winner of the first season of BET’s Sunday Best.

Crystal’s musical journey began way before Sunday Best with her participating early in the choirs and singing groups at her local church. Eventually she found herself taking on more and more lead singing and directing duties. She credits her musical influence to gospel artists like Yolanda Adams, Lisa Paige-Brooks, The Clark Sisters, The Winans family.

Her energy and charismatic presence wows audiences worldwide. Crystal travels extensively leading worship and sharing her ministry. Additionally to her musical journey, she is still a Registered Nurse.

You can stream Crystal Aikin’s new single “He Can Handle It” on all digital media platforms.

Rev. Tony Lee is the founder and Senior Pastor of the Community of Hope A.M.E. Church in Hillcrest Heights, MD. Community of Hope is recognized throughout the region for its innovative ministry, social engagement, and community outreach. Community Of Hope has gained national recognition for its work around HIV/AIDS, violence prevention, community/police partnerships, and educational advocacy. The church’s work is also highlighted in the documentary “The Gospel Of Healing,” and Rev Lee is a contributor to the books “Being A Black Man: At The Corner Of Progress And Peril” and “Reach: 40 Black Men Speak On Living, Loving & Succeeding”. Pastor Lee is also highlighted by Heather Foster in her chapter in the book West Wingers: Stories from the Dream Chasers, Change Makers and Hope Creators Inside the Obama White House.

Rev Lee holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Maryland at College Park, a Masters Of Divinity degree from the Union Theological Seminary in New York City, and is currently pursuing a Doctor Of Ministry degree at Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary focusing on Church Planting and Multiplication.

Dr. Kafui Dzirasa is an associate professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences, neurobiology, and neurosurgery, and the K. Ranga Rama Krishnan Associate Professor at Duke University and an investigator in the Duke Institute for Brain Sciences.

Born and raised in Buffalo, New York, Michelle is a longtime dance and exercise enthusiast.  Michelle was a dance major and played the violin at the Buffalo Academy of Visual and Performing Arts. She obtained a B.S. and M.S. from the State University of New York at Buffalo and also received a second B.S., with honors, from the City University of New York at Queens College and majored in nutrition and exercise sciences.

Michelle is a certified group exercise instructor with the American Council on Exercise® and personal trainer via the American Council on Exercise and Applied Academy of Personal Training Education®. She also holds kickboxing,  Zumba® and Silver Sneakers® instructor certifications. She is also a Balm In Gilead Lifestyle Coach.

Dr. Barbara Louise Shaw is the Immediate Past International President of The Women’s Home and Overseas Missionary Society of The African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church. A product of four generations in the A.M.E. Zion Church, born in Wilmington, North Carolina, Barbara L. Shaw was spiritually developed and reared in the Pennsylvania Avenue A.M.E. Zion Church (Baltimore, Maryland) where she served in many positions. She was consecrated a Deaconess in 1993. She is a dedicated mother and grandmother who understands and values the importance of family. Dr. Shaw was educated in the public schools in Baltimore; Morgan State University; and graduate studies at The Johns Hopkins University, School of Writing. Professionally, she has served as a teacher in the Baltimore City Public School System; Associate Producer at Maryland Public Television; and a Chief Administrator with the State of Maryland Department of Public Safety. In October, 1997, she retired after 30 years of service in the state of Maryland. In August 2003, Dr. Shaw was elected the 16th General President of the Women's Home and Overseas Missionary Society of the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church. In this position, she presided over 800,000+ women on five continents. In August of 2007, she was re-elected as General President and retired in July, 2011. She is the recipient of numerous awards and honors including the Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Hood-Speaks Theological Seminary of the University of Calabar, Nigeria, West Africa, June 2005. In February 2006, she received an Honorary Doctorate from Livingstone College, Salisbury, North Carolina.

Pamela D. Price currently serves as the Deputy Director for The Balm In Gilead managing the various health initiatives of the organization.  Under her leadership, the organization provides support to faith institutions in areas of program design, implementation and evaluation, which strengthen their capacity to deliver programs and services that contribute to the elimination of health disparities.  In addition to her role as Deputy Director, she also serves as the Director for The National Brain Health Center for African-Americans. 

As the Center’s director, she co-developed a six-part educational curriculum for nurses and allied healthcare professionals aimed at addressing knowledge gaps related to Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias affecting African Americans.  She also co-authored and facilitates an accredited training for healthcare providers and clinicians; aimed at increasing cultural competencies related to the screening, diagnosis, and treatment of dementia in African Americans among providers. 

 Mrs. Price holds a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Public Health and has more than 20 years of experience in public health, epidemiology, and healthcare.  She has served as a member of the U.S. Army Nurse Corp and excelled in both government and non-governmental agencies providing leadership and guidance on program management, quality improvement, and project development.  Mrs. Price has conducted hundreds of training sessions across the country with various nursing associations, healthcare organizations and conferences.  

Cary L. Goodman, a native of Richmond, VA, has a sincere passion to empower faith communities nationally to operate at their fullest capacity in areas of health promotion, advocacy programs, outreach and development. For over 15 years, he has been dedicated to working with faith communities to establish and expand health programs across the United States by building their capacity to address health disparities that greatly impact their congregations and the communities they serve and strategically leveraging faith‐based and community partnerships to impact sustainability.

Currently, Cary is a Program & Strategic Development Consultant for The Balm In Gilead, Inc. A highly skilled strategist adept at leading relationship building and engagement opportunities, he has forged various faith based and public health community partnerships and coalitions. With a sincere passion to empower black men, Cary founded Black Men’s Wholeness, an initiative designed to engage black men in conversations focused on areas that reassure wholenesses such as trauma, emotional and mental health, and fatherlessness.

An ordained minister, Cary deems himself a “connector”; where he focuses on the significance of outreach and engagement, establishing coalitions, collaborating, and relationship building in order to increase accessibility and sustainability to strengthen congregations and communities.

Saidi Mpendu, MD, MPH, is the Country Director of The Balm In Gilead – Tanzania. Dr. Mpendu also serves as Deputy Chairperson of Institutional Review Board (IRB) @ Ifakara Health Institute (IHI) and his a Member of Clinical Trail Sub Committee of National Ethics Committee for Clinical Research @ The National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR); Member of Technical Working Group‐ Public Private Partnership (PPP) @ Tanzania‐Ministry of Health & Social Welfare. Dr. Mpendu is the former National Program Director @ The National Muslim Council of Tanzania (BAKWATA) and Medical Officer @ Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Center (KCMC). As a public health specialist, Dr. Mpendu continues his work on various research committees @ Muhimbili University of Health and Allied sciences. Dr. Mpendu passion is coordinating public health and social welfare programs and systematically building the technical and institutional capacity of faith‐based organizations to be a focus for change.

Jude Ngang is Executive Director, Representation in Clinical Research (RISE) at Amgen. He leads the RISE team dedicated to improving proportional representation in clinical trials in alignment with Amgen's Environmental & Social Governance imperatives, health equity narratives, and ethical research commitments. Prior to taking the lead role for Amgen’s RISE team, Jude was Team Lead in Oncology Early Clinical Development Operations, with experience in developing targeted therapies for lung cancer and other solid tumors. During his tenure in this role, Jude received an Amgen 'Innovation Trail Blazer' award for his leadership in the design and execution of the clinical operations strategy for the LUMAKRAS (for lung cancer), the first in human study that contributed to the acceleration of the program. He was also a post-doctoral fellow in translational medicine at the Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research and served as Adjunct Assistant Professor of Pharmacy Practice at MCPHS University in Boston. Jude has been with Amgen for over six years and has held leadership roles for the Amgen Black Employee Network (ABEN). He specializes in clinical sciences & innovation, with a focus on patient recruitment/retention and representative participation in clinical trials across multiple therapeutic areas. Jude is also a pharmacist by training with a PharmD from Roseman University of Health Sciences.

Dr. Reema Dirks earned a Doctor of Pharmacology degree from the University of Missouri- Kansas City. After working in community pharmacy, Reema realized she could make an impact at the patient level by working to educate healthcare providers and facilitating research working in the pharmaceutical industry. Thus began her career as a medical science liaison (MSL). Over her 15 years of experience, Reema has grown her passion for education by providing education to people living with asthma, specifically in underserved and underrecognized populations. Having asthma in her family and living in an urban environment, she recognizes that better asthma control lies in educating yourself about your disease and advocating for yourself. Reema proudly hails from Oakland, California.

Cassandra Smith currently serves as the Director, Health Equity, Enterprise Advocacy Relations at Amgen.  She has over twenty years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, joining Amgen in June 2023.  In this role, Cassandra collaborates with and connects internal and external stakeholders to implement strategic plans that align with the company's vision and values around addressing health disparities.

Cassandra earned a Bachelor of Science degree in General Science with a concentration in Biology from The Pennsylvania State University, and a Master of Business Administration in Healthcare and Pharmaceutical Marketing from St. Joseph’s University. Cassandra is a Philadelphia native, and she currently lives just outside of Philadelphia in South Jersey with her partner, Raymond, 2-year-old daughter, Seneca, and puppy, Teddy.

Laonis Quinn, RN, MSN, AE-C is the founder and Executive Director of Breathe Anthony J Chapman Asthma Foundation. Since the untimely death of her eldest son Anthony Jamar Chapman (Tony) in 2007 from a fatal asthma attack. Her passion is unwavering for advocating about asthma education to increase awareness about the effects asthma has on families and communities to help save lives. She has been active in the community for over 15 years, serving with various organizations, Laonis has spoken on several National Platforms telling Tony’s story. She has been sitting on the Board of Directors at Allergy & Asthma Network for the past 3 years. She has been a Registered Nurse for over 25 years, specializing in critical care. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Eastern Michigan University and a Master of Science in Nursing Education from the University of Phoenix. She is also a Certified Asthma Educator. Laonis has had asthma since she was a child.

Dr. Idoroenyi Amanam is an Assistant Professor in the Leukemia Division at City of Hope. He obtained his medical degree from Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tennessee, and completed his training at St. Mary-UCLA Internal Medicine Residency, where he was awarded Intern of the Year, Resident of the Year and Chief Resident distinctions.

He completed his hematology and oncology training at the City of Hope/Harbor-UCLA combined program, serving as chief fellow and was then awarded a Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy Fellowship, with a concentration on acute leukemias and myeloproliferative neoplasms.

He currently is active in basic and clinical research and is supported by the National Institutes of Health, the Myeloproliferative Research Foundation and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

Jorge Leon is a results-oriented leader who has been with Johnson & Johnson for over 22 years. He is currently the Director, Our Race to Health Equity – Enterprise Engagement, in the Global Community Impact organization, the group responsible for disbursing philanthropic dollars on behalf of the Johnson & Johnson Foundation.

Through his work at the foundation, he supports J&J's Our Race to Health Equity initiative. He is also responsible for supporting the direct debt and equity investments that the Foundation makes in US-based entrepreneurs and start-up organizations through J&J Impact Ventures (JJIV).

For the first 19 years of his career at Johnson & Johnson, Jorge worked through many roles in the Consumer sector, where he gained valuable experience managing many of their iconic brands, including LACTAID®, MYLANTA®, Children’s TYLENOL®, Children’s MOTRIN®, and BENADRYL®.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in Industrial & Systems Engineering from the University of Florida, and an MBA from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Shelina Ramnarine PhD is the Director Our Race to Health Equity Community Engagement. Shelina is a recognized change catalyst with proven capabilities to take innovative ideas from concept to execution. She is a collaborator with an aptitude to connect people and ideas. She has experience collaborating with technical, scientific, and commercial colleagues to drive and deliver on strategic initiatives. Shelina holds a PhD in Human and Statistical Genetics from Washington University in St Louis and earned undergraduate degrees in Biology and Statistics from the University of Georgia.

Shelina is a native of Trinidad and Tobago and holds a strong value for community. As a community cultivator, Shelina works to create spaces to foster dialogue. Blending head and heart, Shelina aims to use her talent towards solving unmeet needs. 

Dr. Ogo Egbuna is a passionate physician scientist with nearly two decades of clinical, academic, and drug development experience. Originally from West Africa, he completed medical school at the University of Nigeria before emigrating to the United States, where he completed his residency in internal medicine at Mount Sinai followed by clinical fellowships in nephrology and kidney transplant medicine at the University of Rochester and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, respectively. Dr. Egbuna then completed a Masters in Clinical Investigation from the Harvard/MIT School of Health Sciences and Technology and was on faculty teaching residents, caring for patients, and conducting National Institutes of Health-funded research at the Harvard Medical School.

Throughout his early career, Dr. Egbuna received several honors and awards for his exceptional academic and clinical work and received over a dozen invitations to give oral presentations on topics ranging from kidney disease clinical research to disparities in access to kidney care and transplantations for underserved minorities. He spent ten years at Amgen as a Clinical Research Medical Director for both early and late phase clinical development programs, interacting with a wide range of medical, regulatory, and business stakeholders. During this time, he also began teaching and mentoring medical students as an assistant clinical professor at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA.

Currently, Dr. Egbuna is the Vice President, Clinical Development and also the Global Clinical Development Lead for Vertex Pharmaceutical’s APOL1-mediated focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) program, which aims to develop a potentially curative treatment for the underlying cause of APOL1-mediated Kidney Disease. In addition to his role at Vertex and his professorship, Dr. Egbuna also offers pro bono advice to the leadership of KidneySolutions, a kidney disease and dialysis center in Lagos, Nigeria, on standardization and implementation of policies and clinical procedures as well as the use of modern technologies for dialysis and electronic medical records.

Ifeoma Onuorah is an Assistant Professor with the Division of Cardiology at Emory University School of Medicine Atlanta Georgia since 2017.

Dr Onuorah obtained her Bachelors of science in nursing from University of Texas Medical branch Galveston graduating with high honors. She completed her medical school training at the University of Texas San Antonio and was inducted into Alpha Omega Alpha honor society (AOA) at graduation.   She completed her Internal Medicine residency training at the prestigious John Hopkins’s Osler training program in Baltimore Maryland and General Cardiology Fellowship at Thomas Jefferson University hospital, Philadelphia Pennsylvania.

Dr Onuorah is a fellow of the American society of echocardiography and American college of Cardiology.

Dr Onuorah interest include echocardiography, valvular heart disease. Additionally, she has special interest in cardiovascular disease prevention and outcomes in low socioeconomic communities.

Dr. Kernizan is a board-certified pediatric cardiologist with advanced fellowship training in fetal cardiology. She has been with Nemours Children’s Health initially as a clinical fellow for four years working in pediatric cardiology, prevention, and advance cardiac imaging and now works as an attending physician in Panama City, Florida. Dr. Kernizan has published medical journal articles on rheumatic heart disease in the United States, cardiopulmonary exercise testing, micronutrient intake and hypertension, echocardiographic assessment of ventricular function along with other topics and has lectured on an array of topics such as high output heart failure in the fetus, pediatric heart screening in Haiti, and the syncope in the pediatric patient. In addition to English, Dr. Kernizan is also fluent in French Creole.

Dr. Willibroad Maimo is a board-certified internist and geriatrician currently pursuing a fellowship in Cardiovascular medicine at Emory University School of Medicine. He has a strong passion for primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease with a focus on risk stratification and cardioembolic disease. Among his clinical and research interests is seeking to understand early detection of pre-disease states, through modalities such as coronary artery calcium scoring and high-risk cardiovascular biomarkers such as Lipoprotein LpA. He is also involved in the National Lipid Association Lipid Scholars Program seeking to complete advanced training in clinical lipidology.

Joanne is a Patient Engagement Liaison (PEL) with GSK. She has worked for more than 40 years caring for patients in the pediatric, adults, and octogenarian areas, including the specialties of allergy and asthma, cardiology, dermatology, ENT (ears, nose, & throat), neurology, obstetrics and gynecology, psychiatry, pulmonary, and urology. Also, Joanne has worked 22 years within the pharmaceutical industry supporting patients and their healthcare providers.

Joanne obtained her first nursing license as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) at the young age of 17 years old. She also holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from SUNY Brockport and a Master of Science in Nursing and Nurse Practitioner (NP) degrees from the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry. She has a strong passion for educating and advocating for patients and caregivers. Throughout her career she has become a true Ambassador for those without a voice or who are often overlooked and lack access to healthcare, which has fueled a fire within her for years.

Joanne has worked in unmet communities helping those who have little to no healthcare. She has also worked in local churches to change the lives of their congregants to live healthier lives. Joanne's proudest accomplishments include being a mother to two beautiful children and a wife of 30 years to her wonderful husband. She believes the greatest gift one can provide to others

is the gift of a servant. Her passion is advocating and empowering others, traveling, healthy living, reading, and sitting by any ocean. Also, having the honor to positively impact patients' lives and potentially improve their quality of life through education and advocacy regardless of diagnosis, neighborhood one resides in or any other health disparity reason.

Cathedral International, Perth Amboy, NJ

Passionate about education, Dr. Hilliard is the former Group Convener and Mentor of the Donald Hilliard Fellows Doctor of Ministry Program, and visiting professor of Church Renewal at Drew University Theological School in Madison, NJ. In December 2012, Dr. Hilliard partnered again with Drew University Theological School as an Affiliate Associate Professor with the establishment of the Hilliard/Sweet Concentration as part of the Doctor of Ministry Program. Dr. Hilliard earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Eastern College (now Eastern University), St. David’s, Pennsylvania, the Master of Divinity degree from Princeton Theological Seminary, Princeton, NJ, and an earned Doctor of Ministry degree from United Theological Seminary, Dayton, Ohio, as a Dr. Samuel D. Proctor Fellow. He is also the recipient of various honorary doctoral degrees.

Bishop Donald Hilliard Jr. serves as the Senior Pastor of Cathedral International—The Historic Second Baptist Church in Perth Amboy, NJ. Dr. Hilliard’s willingness to “Say Yes!” to the Lord has fostered his ability to provide leadership in the exponential growth of the church over the last 31 years. His transformational mindset is reflected in the numerous community development initiatives established under his leadership. He is the Founder and CEO of the Cathedral Community Development Corporation (CCDC), an umbrella organization providing a variety of outreach services to the local community. The “Cathedral Community Counseling Center” provides mental health support for both the church and the community. The “Cathedral Family Life Center” houses a banquet center, library and a creative dance center. Cathedral International has been cited by the city and the state as a major catalyst for the renewal and development of the City of Perth Amboy, NJ.

Rev. Stephanie has pastored Allen Chapel AMEC, Hannibal, MO, and Bethel AMEC, Louisiana, MO. She currently pastors The Historic St. Paul AMEC, Columbia, MO. Rev. Stephanie is bi-vocational and has served as a mental health professional and in the field of Social Work for 12 years. Rev. Stephanie has a heart for the people and is committed to meeting them exactly where they are.

Nyambi Nyambi is an American actor and producer most known for his role on the CBS series “Mike & Molly”. Born in Norman, Oklahoma to Nigerian parents, Nyambi went to Bucknell University on a scholarship to play basketball. During his final year, he pursued acting during his final year at Bucknell, and decided to study for his Masters of Fine Arts at New York University. After completing his graduate studies, Nyambi worked on the stage, but soon broke on to the screen with a small role on "Law & Order" which was quickly followed by a large recurring role on "Mike & Molly" alongside actress Melissa McCarthy. After that show ended, Nyambi easily segued into a recurring role in the hit CBS series "The Good Wife" that led to a role in the spinoff, "The Good Fight.”

Dr. Andrea L. Phillips is a Family Medicine physician with extensive experience in patient care and clinical research. Based in Jackson, Mississippi, she has provided primary care for more than 30 years in underserved areas, which she describes as her “calling” in healthcare. Serving as Principal Investigator in more than 100 Clinical Research trials over the past 25 years, she maintains a commitment to ensuring that safe and effective medicines are available for all populations. This commitment has guided her interest and activities in the clinical trials arena, a major part of her private practice, Phillips Medical Services, PLLC, since its inception in 2000. She has a particular interest in the involvement of minorities in the development of medications that are tailored to the treatment of disease and the prevention of poor outcomes in diverse populations.

A graduate of Jackson State University, and the University of MS School of Medicine, Dr. Phillips completed a residency in Family Medicine and became certified with the American Board of Family Medicine. As an active participant in healthcare issues, she has been appointed to numerous boards and committees with the Division of Medicaid, Jackson State University School of Public Health, Magnolia Health Plan, the Mississippi State Department of Health, and the board of the Mississippi Public Health Institute. A former Director of the Mississippi Academy of Family Physicians, she is a current member of the American Medical Association, and is Chairman of the Board of the Mississippi Medical and Surgical Association.

Gersham Dent is a Clinical Development executive with over 30 years of biopharmaceutical industry experience in Central Nervous System Research and Development. Prior to joining the pharmaceutical industry, she worked at several branches of the federal government including the National Institute on Drug Abuse and the National Institute on Aging. Gersham has worked in preclinical and clinical research at Bristol-Myers Squibb, DuPont-Merck, AstraZeneca, Pfizer, and Biogen. Her clinical research has primarily been focused on understanding the pathophysiology of brain disorders such as Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, Schizophrenia, anxiety, and depression. Gersham holds a Ph.D. in Neurobiology combined with postdoctoral training in molecular neurobiology. Subsequently, she earned a Master’s in Business Administration. Currently employed at Biogen since 2013, she is an Executive Director in the Neurodegeneration Development Unit. Gersham leads the R&D aducanumab program team who are responsible for clinical development studies and life-cycle management activities required for the successful commercialization of this product. She enjoys the application of neuroscience and is passionate about the mission to discover and develop new therapeutics for brain disorders.

In addition to her functional responsibilities, Gersham is a former co-lead for the Biogen Mentoring, Opportunities, Support, Advancement, Inspiration, Change (MOSAIC) employee resource network. This is a multicultural network that is responsible for increasing awareness of and celebrating cultural diversity. She is also vehement about mentoring the next generation of scientist, especially women, about career planning and opportunities in the pharmaceutical industry. Gersham is a former member of the Biogen Foundation committee that is responsible for providing access to STEM opportunities for under-represented students. She also contributes to several Biogen initiatives aimed at increasing racial diversity in clinical trials.

Mollie Richards is a retired Occupational Therapist with extensive, successful experience in rehabilitation management, program development, and staff education and is currently a dedicated community leader committed to helping families living with Alzheimer’s. Mollie is a co-founder of the Mount Olivet Baptist Church/ Alzheimer’s Association Ministry, which provides information and referral, support group services, and caregiver education seminars. She is a former instructor for the Rochester/Finger Lakes New York Alzheimer Association and is currently a Community Educator for the Indiana Alzheimer’s Association.

Mollie is a member of the Indiana Alzheimer Disease Research Center, Indiana University of Medicine, Community Advisory Board and past member of the Coordinating Council for Services Related to Alzheimer’s Disease, and other Dementia, appointed by the Governor of New York. She is involved in a variety of church programs and activities and is the recipient of numerous awards and recognition including Who’s Who of American Women and Who’s Who in Health Care and was named the 2004 Professional of the Year by the New York Association of Homes and Services for the Aging. Mollie and her husband were honored by the Alzheimer’s Association with the, “Ralph & Mollie Richards Internship” to further the outreach into the communities of people of color in Rochester, New York.

Mollie has also authored several publications related to Alzheimer’s disease and diversity.

Mollie received her Bachelor of Science degree in Occupational Therapy from Indiana University School of Medicine and her Master of Science degree in Adult Education from Syracuse University School of Adult Education.

Ralph Richards is a long-time community leader and retired decorated veteran who works with his wife, Mollie, to educate the community on Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Ralph currently volunteers as a community educator with the Alzheimer’s Association of Greater Indiana Chapter. He is also an active member of the Alzheimer’s Association Greater Indiana Chapter Board of Directors. He co-chairs the Indiana Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center (IADRC) community advisory board and serves as a consultant to the Indiana University School of Medicine, in the area of academic research.

Ralph was formerly an adjunct lecturer for the Alzheimer’s Association of Rochester and Greater Finger Lakes Chapter, where he was also a board member and appointed as the Assembly Delegate of the “program and services subcommittee.” He also co-founded a strategically planned and implemented Alzheimer’s / Mt. Olivet Baptist Church Health Ministry, in Rochester, NY. Ralph and his wife were honored by the Alzheimer’s Association with the, “Ralph & Mollie Richards Internship” to further the outreach into the communities of people of color in Rochester, New York. Ralph is the recipient of the 2021 Golden Hoosier Award given by the LT. Governor of the State of Indiana for a lifetime of community service and commitment to serving others; recipient of the 2021 Indianapolis Business Journal Award for work in education and research with Alzheimer’s Disease and other Dementia; and a recipient of the 2023 American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry, Dr. Iqbal “Ike” Diversity Award for work in research with the Community Advisory Board, Indiana University School of Medicine at the Indiana Alzheimer’s Disease and Research Center

Ralph holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Radiology Business Management from The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences in Washington, DC. and an advanced Bachelor of Science Degree in Professional Studies, Medical Magnetic Resonance Imaging, MR. from Upstate Medical University, School of Health Professional in Syracuse, New York.

Dr. Craig Emmitt Cole is a board certified Hematologist from Detroit, MI. Dr. Cole his undergraduate degree at Michigan State University and his doctoral degree at The Ohio State University College of Medicine.
Dr. Cole’s research interest includes multiple myeloma, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, therapeutic apheresis, and myelodysplasia; participating as the onsite primary investigator for over 21 clinical trials.
He has a commitment to patient empowerment and education working with several local and national patient advocacy associations.

A charismatic praise & worship leader, Washington, D.C.-based Stephen A. Hurd wears all the hats one can possibly wear as a contemporary gospel artist. He has done spoken word pieces, sung many more, directed choirs and arranged vocals, led countless praise & worship workshops, and written several songs that are regularly sung at Sunday services, including "Undignified," "Great Praise," and "Zion Is Calling," all while attending to his first calling as a Baptist minister.

Rev. Toi A. Barbel is the Pastor-Overseer of International Gospel Center Of St. Thomas & International Gospel Center/One Voice Ministries Global Assemblies in St. Thomas U.S. Virgin Islands, Grand Bahama, Dominican Republic, United Kingdom, India, Ghana, Sierra Leone & Tanzania which comprises of 81 Churches, Summits, Outreaches (Physical & Virtual) and An Orphanage. 24/7 Ministering Love In A Hurting World For Almost 35 Years.

Sharí Nycole is a tv and radio personality, podcaster, tv and film producer, speaker, editor, director and writer. She has nearly 13 years of experience in the entertainment industry in the areas of broadcast television and radio, live talk show, live news, documentary and docu-reality.
She has worked with several notable brands and networks, including: TVOne, Will Packer Media, Fox Soul, PBS, Essence, Philly’s Favor 100.7fm and Praise 102.5fm. She’s currently the co-host of “The Willie Moore Jr. Show,” branded content producer for ESSENCE and host/producer for her popular podcast, “Just A Thought w/ Sharí Nycole.”

Bishop Benjamin Dube is a chart-topping, award-winning minister, singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and music producer from Johannesburg, South Africa. He has mentored hundreds of musicians in his homeland and is regarded as one of his country's most significant recording artists in religious music. He grew up on-stage performing with his siblings and parents in the Dube Family Singers.
His rising international profile as a speaker coincided with his being a widely recognized gospel singer and bandleader. His singles reached into churches and on religious radio in countries that included the U.S., Sweden, the Netherlands, Paris, Australia, Japan. In 2019, Dube released Glory in His Presence. The double album featured a wealth of new material and was loaded with appearances by top-flight South African gospel stars such as Sethu Gumede, Unathi Mzekeli, the Dube Brothers, VaShawn Mitchell, and many others. It was certified platinum in South Africa.

Shanti Das is an accomplished entertainment industry veteran, speaker, author, and Philanthropist. Shanti worked in the entertainment business for over 25 years. Her music industry career (from intern to Executive Vice President) included promotions & marketing positions at Capitol Records, LaFace Records, Columbia Records, Sony Urban Music and Universal Motown where she worked directly with some of music’s top talent like OutKast, Usher, Prince, TLC, Toni Braxton, Erykah Badu, and more.
On a personal note, Shanti has suffered from depression/anxiety over the years and has also experienced loved ones affected with mental health disorders. This led her to step away from the labels in 2009 to begin using her pain for purpose in her community of Atlanta, Georgia and beyond. So, because of Shanti’s extensive community work in the 2010 decade, she decided to establish her very own nonprofit, The Hip-Hop Professional Foundation, Inc. The foundation was rebranded under the name Silence the Shame, Inc., the mental health movement that led the way since 2016.
Silence the Shame, Inc. has received global awareness and has become a commonly used hashtag to normalize the conversation in America. In 2018, the National Day Calendar recognized May 5th as National Silence the Shame Day! The foundation curates community conversations and care, wellness trainings, creates content and broadens awareness & education around mental health and wellness. (In 2019, Silence the Shame was awarded one of five awards by the American Psychiatric Association Foundation for advancing minority mental health).

Katherine Ponds has a diverse background that encompasses leadership roles in for-profit, non-profit, and public sector organizations. She currently serves as Meridian Resources Inc.’s Vice President overseeing strategic marketing, relationship management and business development in the Mid-Atlantic Region for this leading Career Development/Career Transition consulting company.
With extensive experience as a volunteer with non-profit organizations, in addition to serving as a volunteer Community Ambassador with AARP, Ms. Ponds currently serves on the Military Officers Association of America Military Family Initiative (MMFI) and Access Housing, Inc. non-profit boards, and is a past member of the National Alzheimer’s Association Board of Directors.

Dr.Valencia Wilson is an energetic, solutions-driven, performance- focused professional with over 23 years in healthcare. She is a Director in Medical Intelligence and Patient Insights at Astellas Pharma USA. Valencia is proficient in process optimization, international business, quality assurance, and marketing. Previously, she worked in areas including public policy reform related to the Affordable Care Act and Quality and at facilities in San Francisco, NY, the UK, Hong Kong, and Ireland. She has also worked in medical devices, retail pharmacy, and hospital health systems. For Valencia, work is personal, and advocacy is at her core. Her passion for health equity and diversity in clinical trials reigns, beginning with her time as a clinical trial investigator. Valencia graduated magna cum laude with a Doctor of Pharmacy from Florida A&M University and completed her clinical experience at the University of Miami. She also has her MBA from the University of Illinois, with a double concentration in International Business and Marketing. She is an active member of the Links, Inc. and is on the regional leadership team of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Valencia is a member of the Illinois Perinatal Quality Collaborative, Healthcare Businesswomen's Association, and on the Board of Directors for Leadership Illinois, a non-profit organization of diverse, accomplished women from all sectors of society to be a catalyst for positive change. She is a 2022 graduate of the Women in Bio 3.8Board Readiness program, and she is a former four-term Board Member of the YWCA of Lake County. In her spare time, Valencia enjoys golfing, skiing, traveling, and all water sports. She has completed the Chicago Marathon and has a Black Belt in karate. But her favorite time is spent with her 2-year-old daughter, Campbell.

Kris Bennett, MiM is currently the Director of Health Equity, Community Organizing and Engagement, at ZERO Prostate Cancer. Kris has spent the majority of his career in the public health sector, with virtually all of his experience centered around health equity and health disparities. Before joining ZERO Prostate Cancer, Kris designed and managed programs in both the homeless services field and also at community health centers. He also worked in the political sector, collaborating with state and local level politicians on health equity and advocacy matters.
Kris earned his undergraduate degree from Lesley University, his first Masters in Management from Durham University in the United Kingdom, and is currently working towards a dual MSW and MPH from the University of Alabama. Prior to his work in the public health and policy space, Kris played professional basketball around the world.

Tiffaney Bradley is a passionate and dedicated Communications and Public Engagement professional. She's from Clarksdale, Mississippi, and was diagnosed with Crohn's Disease at the age of 14. She brings a personal connection to the forefront, where health disparities and insufficient care for Black and brown patients, particularly in rural areas, are stark realities. Her advocacy is deeply rooted in her experiences and desire to effect positive change in the healthcare landscape.
Tiffaney's leadership as the Director of Communications at the New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (RTA) is a testament to her dedication to creating a better future. She led the charge in developing communication and outreach strategies for the 2022 overhaul of the regional bus network, significantly enhancing the public transit experience for more than 30,000 riders. While her influence extends beyond regional boundaries, her heart remains deeply connected to her hometown and the ongoing battle against health disparities.
Tiffaney attended Dillard University in New Orleans and possessed the tools to inspire change through her powerful voice. In addition to her professional dedication, she believes that by sharing her own experiences with Crohn's disease, she can inspire others to do the same, and together, they can pave the way toward a more equitable and inclusive healthcare landscape, particularly for those in underserved rural areas.

Yasmeen Long is a director at FasterCures, a Center of the Milken Institute. Her expertise lies within health equity, disparities, outcomes, policy, clinical research, patient engagement, and social determinants of health. Prior to joining FasterCures, she served as the co-director of the Health Policy Fellowships and Leadership Programs at the National Academy of Medicine. These fellowships were designed for early- to mid-career national and international health science scholars. She also served as a program officer at the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI), where she executed strategic objectives to advance patient and stakeholder engagement in patient-centered outcomes research. At PCORI, she built key relationships with academic researchers, health-care providers, patient advocates, and policy stakeholders. Prior to PCORI, she directed global health policy programs in the US, Asia, and the Middle East at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health in collaboration with the Bloomberg Philanthropies and the World Health Organization. She holds an MA in sociology and women's health from Suffolk University and a BSc in health sciences from Howard University.

Kira serves as CEO of MitoAction and champions the growth of the programs and services offered by MitoAction. Her priority is to ensure that each and every person affected by mitochondrial disease knows they are not alone and that the MitoAction team will be here every step of their journey. Kira is committed to stewarding key funding opportunities, strengthening the organization’s business development and governance and working with the community to increase MitoAction’s national impact and presence in the areas of aware- ness, education and advocacy.

Melissa Bishop-Murphy is Senior Director of National Government Relations and Multicultural Affairs at Pfizer, Inc, where she supports the company's overall federal and state government relations and public affairs strategy and advises leadership on current multicultural congressional and legislative issues and activities. In addition, Ms. BishopMurphy leads Pfizer's government relations activities in GA, SC, NC and Puerto Rico as well as co-leads Pfizer’s Multicultural Health Equity Collective. She has lobbied issues such as the Medicare Reform Act, drug importation legislation, authorized generics, and asbestos and patent reduction legislation. Prior to joining Pfizer, Ms. Bishop-Murphy was General Counsel for the Georgia Department of Medical Assistance, concentrating in the areas of Medicare and Medicaid, and served as an Attorney with the Department of Health and Human Services. Named one of Georgia's most powerful and influential women in Women Looking Ahead Magazine, Ms. Bishop-Murphy is currently on the board of the Andrew Young Center for International Affairs at Morehouse College and the Georgia Charter Schools Association. Ms. Bishop-Murphy received a B.A., summa cum laude, from Stillman College and a J.D. from the Georgetown University Law Center. She received her M.B.A. from the University of Georgia.

Dr. Ugochukwu Egolum is an Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiologist, has a specific interest in amyloidosis, and is experienced in managing patients with hATTR amyloidosis. He currently serves as Chief, Department of Cardiology at Northeast Georgia Health System. He earned his Medical Degree from Howard University College of Medicine and completed his cardiology fellowship at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

Tab, living with hATTR amyloidosis, went from teaching cycling classes several times a week to contemplating using a wheelchair to get around. He began experiencing shortness of breath, pain in his hip, carpal tunnel syndrome, and symptoms of neuropathy. Join us to hear more about Tab’s journey with hATTR amyloidosis.

Sue has a background in nursing and has worked in the healthcare industry for 22 years, with the last 12 years spent as a patient educator and pharmaceutical liaison. Her experiences have provided her with a much broader perspective on the great need for access and education. She was inspired to become an Alnylam Patient Education Liaison (PEL) when she learned that she could help educate patients and raise awareness of hATTR amyloidosis, a rare condition that disproportionately affects African Americans.
PELs are employees of Alnylam Pharmaceuticals. They are not acting as healthcare providers and are not part of your healthcare team. PELs do not provide medical care or advice. All diagnosis and treatment decisions should be made by you and your doctor.