Virginia Tech® home

2020 Keynote Speakers & Presenters

Keynote Speakers

BK Fulton

BK Fulton

Chairman and CEO of Soulidifly Productions. Soulidifly is a full feature film, stage and TV investment and production company designed to promote a more inclusive narrative in major media. Soulidifly produced 4 feature length films in 2018 (River Runs Red, Atone, 1 Angry Black Man and Love Dot Com: The Social Experiment (released by Gravitas Ventures on 11/19/19)). Soulidifly has several projects in development including a biopic on Bass Reeves titled Hell on the Border (released by Lionsgate on 12/13/2019) and the popular Mr. Business: The Adventures of Little BK book series. Prior to becoming a full-time author and media entrepreneur, BK was Vice President of the Mid-Atlantic Region for Verizon Communications, Inc. ($5.5B Rev.) and President of Verizon West Virginia ($400M Rev.). He has held senior leadership, media, technology and policy development posts with the U.S. Department of Commerce, AOL, Time Warner, Verizon (FiOS TV and founder Community Studio) and the National Urban League (first NPO in the world to broadcast a conference over the Internet). He is an inventor (EZ Reader), a published author (8 books) and is considered one of the most influential African Americans in technology. His influential papers on technology and community building are permanently archived at the Smithsonian Institute. BK is trained as an intellectual property lawyer and serves on the boards of Norfolk State University, TowneBank, Aer Wireless, PreShow.co, the American Documentary Film Fund, Virginians for Reconciliation, Boon Castle Media & Entertainment (US Division) and MediaU.com (the first on-line film school with UC transcripts in the US). He is also the Chairman of SoulVision.TV, Ario Technologies (emeritus), Body Snatchers Productions, Encrypted Sensors, Encrypted Grid and founding editor of SoulVision Magazine. BK is a member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, the Executive Leadership Council and the Boule. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in urban affairs and planning with two years of computer engineering and architecture (Virginia Tech), a Master of Science degree and Sloan Fellowship recipient in management and policy analysis (Harvard’s - Kennedy School of Government and the New School’s -Milano School of Management and Policy Analysis), and a Juris Doctorate in intellectual property, electronic commerce and telecommunications law (New York Law School). Find out more at Soulidifly.com.

Tony Moorehead

Tony Moorehead

Tony Moorehead is the VP of Operations at Sterling Motorcars. Tony has worked at this dealership since 2004, but his career in the automotive industry began when he was in high school. For Tony, It felt great working for the Sterling organization, which is a family-owned business that really cares about its customers and staff. Sterling Motorcars pride ourselves on providing great service that customers can depend on. Throughout my career, Tony has earned many awards and certifications. Tony studied at Northwood University in Midland, MI. Tony currently work with the Joyce and Thomas Moorehead Foundation and Kappa Alpha Psi, raising scholarship money to give to college students.

Brandon Rule

Brandon Rule

Brandon Rule is a Commercial Real Estate Investor and Developer who ensures communities of color are treated with dignity and respect. He believes developing communities is essential to creating a more collaborative and prosperous future for humanity. Brandon has studied real estate for over 10 years, while building a pipeline valued over $200M, and at 31-years-old he's just getting started! His investment strategy focuses on projects that fall within the middle market, between $10M-$100M. He's realized this segment has a market inefficiency, which often results in attractive risk-adjusted returns. Currently, the benefits of real estate investing are mostly being distributed to the wealthy, so his next endeavor RE-INVEST aims to democratize the process of RE investing and creating access to RE investing in ways that have previously been off-limits for most Americans. Between his work as a Commercial Real Estate Investor and his passion for wealth building, Brandon's grand vision is to provide the tools necessary to create sustainable communities while educating communities on how to build generational wealth.

Presenters

Nicole Aston

Nicole Aston

The Marathon Continues: Creating your Victory Lap as a First-Generation College Student   
Abstract
“I say that in the most humble way: I always knew that I could perform with the best of ‘em and I could deliver with the best of ‘em” – Nipsey Hustle. Inspired by the beauty of the struggle for educational attainment and system challenging lyrics of Nipsey Hustle. This presentation explores the realities of perseverance through Higher Education, and functions as a transformative vehicle for action; one that is rooted in completion, hope and growth of first-generation college students.  

Presenter’s Bio
Nicole Alston has been a passionate activist for equitable and inclusive change since 2012. Currently serving as the Area Coordinator for Equity, Inclusion, and Programing at Hampden-Sydney College, Mrs. Alston strives daily to educate her students, peers, and herself in cultural competency, inclusive practices, and empathy for your fellow human. Mrs. Alston has successfully held over 40 training sessions during her professional career, including, but not limited to: Ally Training, Cultural Competency, Diversity and Inclusion, Trans Identity Awareness, Intersectional Feminism, and Masculinity and Mental Health. The pursuit of the right for every person to live, love, be housed, work, and travel without fear of persecution or oppression because of their identity, is what fuels Mrs. Alston to serve her students and fellow human to best of her ability; as Huey Newton said, “Rewriting unjust laws is a basic human right and fundamental human obligation.”

Ryan Bell

Ryan Bell

Brave, Intentional Conversations: Students-Fathers, College Access and Lived Experiences
Abstract
This session is designed to be an intimate conversation that explores what student-fathers deem to be barriers to college access, their perceptions around the benefits of postsecondary education and their capacity to achieve said education. Participants will also be introduced to the impact that childhood experiences could and more than likely does play a role in their perception of themselves currently. Participants will also be asked to be cocreators around solutions they feel will increase their ability to attend and complete college and reduce the cycle of generational poverty through education.  

Presenter’s Bio
Ryan A. Bell is a community builder by trade and father by divine intervention. He is a former public-school teacher, founding board member of the Dr. Wyatt Tee Walker Educational Foundation and Black Father Family, current Family and Community Engagement Coordinator with Roanoke City Public Schools and the CEO/President of The Bell Effect, a niche consulting firm whose mission is to support individuals, communities, and organizations in their efforts to mobilize communities for meaningful impact, engage Black men and fathers in social change and empower Black fathers to parent in purpose.

Tevin Byers

Tevin Byers

Presenter’s Bio
Tevin Byers, an Academic Advisor in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, has been with the University of Florida for two years. Before joining the Gator Nation, he previously served as an Academic Advisor at Georgia State University. Mr. Byers earned his Bachelor of Arts in Social Work at Mount St. Joseph University. He then went on to complete his  Masters in Student Affairs Administration in Higher Education at Ball State University. Tevin Byer’s unique experiences have shaped how he promotes the advancement of Black males and first-generation students. Through his extensive research, he has been able to present on the Black male experience and facilitate dialogue on systemic barriers in higher education.

Adrien DeLoach

Adrien DeLoach

Preparing for Greatness: A Critical Conversation with Black Men about Leadership
Abstract
This session focuses on how Black men in college can develop specific skill sets for effectiveness in current or aspiring leadership roles in addition to preparing them for life beyond college. The presenter will engage participants in interactive discussions surrounding action planning and customizing their own pathways to success. He will also share several lessons learned through his experiences as an educator having worked with various leadership programs and activities geared toward the advancement of college students from underrepresented backgrounds.

Presenter’s Bio
Adrien DeLoach is Director of VCU’s  Division for Health Sciences Diversity. He is currently responsible for providing strategic leadership and managing the day-to-day operations of DHSD, which sponsors a series of pipeline programs focusing on career exploration, academic enrichment, and pre-matriculation  preparation experiences for high school and college students from underrepresented backgrounds who are interested in pursuing health care occupations. Adrien has more than 15 years of progressive higher education experience that spans across five institutions and several administrative offices such as minority recruitment, student leadership programs, multicultural services, diversity education, and academic support. He also serves as chair of J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College’s Health Sciences Advisory Board and as membership co-chair for the Southern Region of the National Association of Minority Medical Educators. Adrien earned a B.F.A. in Graphic Design and a M.A.Ed. in Counseling and Student Affairs, both from Western Kentucky University; and he is currently in the process of completing a Ph.D. in Higher Education from Virginia Tech with a concentration in STEM education.

Dr. Brandy Faulkner

Dr. Brandy Faulkner

Showing Up For Black Men: Allies & Advocacy
Abstract
Effective support for marginalized groups requires intentional and sustained effort.  In this session, we'll consider engagement continuums and discuss strategies for strong advocacy for black men. Build your partnership profile and discover ways to create change!

Presenter’s Bio
Dr. Brandy Faulkner is an activist and organizer focusing on racial and economic justice. She is committed to cultivating community-based approaches to problem solving and serves several state and national organizations dedicated to social, political, and economic change. As a nationally recognized organizational trainer, she has worked with hundreds of institutions and countless individuals engaged in direction action organizing, advocacy, and public policy development. Dr. Faulkner is the Gloria D. Smith Professor of Africana Studies and a professor in the Department of Political Science at Virginia Tech.

Dr. Justin Grimes

Dr. Justin Grimes

Tip Toeing in My Jordan's: How Jordan’s and Sneaker Reselling Intersect w/Goal Setting
Abstract
This interactive presentation discusses the history and lessons learned from the Jordan Brand to help individuals learn how to use their strengths to achieve their goals.  

Presenter’s Bio
Dr. Justin Grimes was born and raised in Little Rock, AR.  He completed his undergraduate degree in Computer Information Systems, Minor in African American Studies, and Master’s in Workforce Development Education with an emphasis on Human Resource Education, all from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville.  He holds a PhD in Counseling and Student Personnel Services (College Student Affairs Administration) from the University of Georgia. He currently serves as Assistant Director for the Office of Recruitment, Diversity, and Inclusion for the Graduate School at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech University).

Dr. Abraham 'Billy' Hardee III

Dr. Abraham 'Billy' Hardee III

Dr. Hardee D.O/ PhD received his B.S in Science of Food Nutrition with a minor in Chemistry from Virginia Tech in 2002. He was a member of our very own VT football team, were he played in the defensive backfield and is a three-year lettermen. He was a three time Academic All-American. He was also a one year lettermen on the Virginia Tech Baseball team. He received his Osteopathic Medical degree from the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2007, and PhD in International Health Education from Virginia Tech in 2008. He completed his Traditional Rotating Internship from Geisinger Medical Center in Danville Pennsylvania, and Family Medicine Residency at Montgomery Regional Hospital, Blacksburg. Dr. Hardee is a board-certified Family Physician who practices medicine at the Community Health Center of the New River Valley, and MedExpress Urgent Care. Dr. Hardee is the Associate Chair of Family Medicine and Rural Primary Care at the Edward Via Virginia College of Osteopathic Medicine. He is also very active in the community, with speaking engagements spanning from medical, motivational, educational, and enjoy studying Christian Apologetics. He is married to his best friend and they have 2 young children.

Anthony Kwame Harrison

Anthony Kwame Harrison

Pioneers and Tokens: The Strategic Value of Blackness in White Spaces
Abstract
In this session, participants will engage in a frank discussion about being one of the first and/or only Black persons in a social space and how we can strategically leverage this underrepresentation (or difference in backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives) to our personal and collective advantages, while avoiding the pitfalls of tokenism. Whereas we all recognize the importance of Black organizations and social spaces, in the session we advocate for the equal importance of pursuing success in majority white spaces/organizations.

Presenter’s Bio
Anthony Kwame Harrison is the Edward S. Diggs Professor in Humanities at Virginia Tech. He teaches in the Department of Sociology and Africana Studies program. He is a former president of the Virginia Tech Academy of Teaching Excellence. He is the current president of the General Anthropology Division of the American Anthropological Association.

John Hollemon

John Hollemon

The Marathon Continues: Creating your Victory Lap as a First-Generation College Student 
Abstract
“I say that in the most humble way: I always knew that I could perform with the best of ‘em and I could deliver with the best of ‘em” – Nipsey Hustle. Inspired by the beauty of the struggle for educational attainment and system challenging lyrics of Nipsey Hustle. This presentation explores the realities of perseverance through Higher Education, and functions as a transformative vehicle for action; one that is rooted in completion, hope and growth of first-generation college students.  

Presenter’s Bio
John S. Hollemon III has worked in the field of Higher Education for almost 10 years. As a passionate educator, he has purposefully diversified his experience by working with students at each level from K-12 to college, public to private, rural to urban, small to large, traditional to alternative and local to international. He completed his undergraduate degree in Communication Studies, with Minors in Black Studies and Asian Studies from Randolph-Macon College. He also holds a Master’s in Executive Leadership (Business Management Concentration) from Liberty University.  

Mr. Hollemon currently serves as Associate Dean of Students for Housing, Equity and Inclusion at Hampden-Sydney College. In this role, Mr. Hollemon is unapologetically committed to engaging in community work to increase access and success in higher education for students from minoritized backgrounds. Mr. Hollemon’s research interest focuses on critical race theory in Higher Education, teaching culturally relevant pedagogy, and factors affecting the education experiences and retention of minoritized student populations, with a specific focus on those who identify as Black/Latin X.

Dr. Darryl Hylton

Dr. Darryl Hylton

Creating Moments, Momentum, and Movements that impact Black Male Student Success
Abstract
This presentation will discuss the key findings and best practices established by Dr. Darryl Hylton through the creation of two sections of the First Year Seminar course for African-American males. In addition, participants will hear from the co-facilitators who will share their lived experiences as student leaders within this program.

Presenter’s Bio
Dr. Darryl Hylton (originally from PG County, MD) currently serves as the Senior Director of Campus Engagement & Leadership at Mars Hill University. Dr. Hylton earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with a concentration in mathematics from Norfolk State University (Norfolk, VA), a masters degree in Adult & Higher Education from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (Greensboro, NC), and a Doctorate of Education in Organizational Leadership from Gardner-Webb University (Boiling Spring, NC). He completed his consultancy (research) project on the impact of mentoring on the persistence of African-American males at predominantly white institutions (PWIs).

Erick King

Erick King

Systems Navigation: The Black Man's Path to Success
Abstract
A review and historical context of the how the United States has systematically oppressed African-Americans through the use of systems.  Minorities are overrepresented in social service, court systems, and prison, while they are underrepresented in higher education. The income gap between minorities and whites continues to grow and systemic problems within minority communities continue to be barriers to success. How does an African American male successfully navigate systems in America in 2020?

Presenter’s Bio
Erick T. King, Co-Founder of the Capital Youth Empowerment Program (CYEP) has a passion for problem solving and community development in Northern Virginia.  CYEP’s mission is to inspire communities to invest in social connections to establish healthy relationships and adopt safety and wellness. The community-based programs include Fatherhood services, HIV/STD/Teen Pregnancy Prevention, Teen Dating Violence Prevention, STEM Career Awareness and Mental Health Awareness/Suicide Prevention training for teens.

With over 19 years of experience in juvenile justice (Arlington County and Fairfax County), Erick has helped to support changes to the justice system including evidence-based practices, trauma informed care, and cognitive-based interventions in community supervision.  His combination of leadership, community-based programming, and work in juvenile justice gives him a unique perspective to create change and positive impact for underserved populations.

Mr. King has won numerous awards for his community development including the Virginia Tech Black Alumni Association “Ut Prosim” Award in 2018, Alexandria Champion of Children,  NAACP Community Service Award (City of Alexandria & Fairfax County chapters), Northern Virginia Urban League-YPN Next Generation of Leaders, SCAN: Allies in Prevention, and the White House Champion of Change Award.

Erick earned a BS in Sociology with a concentration in crime and deviance and a BA in Political Science from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University in May, 2000.

Dr. Walter Lee

Dr. Walter Lee

#100Books
Abstract
What do Black men need? Simply put, to answer that question for themselves. In this presentation, we will examine one strategy for doing so: reading. Participants will discuss the importance of intentionally feeding the mind information that will contribute to one’s self-determination. This interactive session will include real-world examples, an interactive exercise, and group discussion. Participants will learn from the speaker’s journey to 100 books, and leave with an improved appreciation for the value of self-selected reading material.

Presenter’s Bio
Dr. Walter Lee is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Engineering Education and the Assistant Director for Research in the Center for the Enhancement of Engineering Diversity, both at Virginia Tech.  Dr. Lee has a BS in Industrial Engineering from Clemson University, an MS in Industrial & Systems Engineering from Virginia Tech, and a PhD in Engineering Education from Virginia Tech.

LaShan Lovelace

LaShan Lovelace

Chess NOT Checkers: Keys to making strategic moves with 20/20 vision as a male of color
Abstract
This presentation and conversation is focused around the premise tangible tools men of color need while navigating the public domain.  Despite progress on many fronts, young men of color still face many obstacles to success in American society and suffer disproportionately from economic and social disadvantage. Chess NOT Checkers: Keys to making strategic moves with 20/20 vision as a male of color will afford participants with tangible skills that are transferable to a myriad of life situations while promoting self-awareness and proactive thought.

Presenter’s Bio
LaShan Lovelace serves as the Director of the Center for Diversity and Inclusion at Radford University.  LaShan joined Radford University in June 2015, serving in multiple capacities within the Student Affairs Division.  He has over ten years of student affairs, business management, and DE&I experience. As a diversity and inclusion professional, LaShan has developed a significant track record of transformational contributions toward organizational equity, diversity, and inclusion goals.  From access and success, education and scholarship, and institutional infrastructures, LaShan has worked collaboratively to create initiatives that positively impact policies, practices, processes, and people.

LaShan holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Sports Management, Marketing, and a Master of Arts degree in Management and Leadership from Liberty University.  LaShan is an active member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, and his passion is to assist individuals in the process of navigating through life's challenges and transitions, to develop a deeper sense of mattering and belonging.

Frederick Paige

Frederick Paige

Effective Communication: Word is Bond
Abstract
Join a discussion on effective communication strategies for Black Men. Participants will discuss the importance of matching communication strategies with desired outcomes. Black males can capitalize on the cultural advantages of being a skilled communicator. This interactive session will include historical and contemporary examples, an interactive exercise, and resources for post-session development of communication skills. Participants will leave with an improved understanding of their untapped potential in the "art" of communication.

Presenter’s Bio
Dr. Frederick (“Freddy”) Paige is the Assistant Director of the Virginia Center for Housing Research and an Assistant Professor at Virginia Tech in the Vecellio Construction Engineering and Management Program. Dr. Paige’s main scholarship goal is to create the knowledge needed to develop an informed public that lives in a sustainable built environment. His main area of research focuses on Affordable - Energy Efficient Housing. Outside of work, Freddy enjoys everything Black, especially basketball, hip hop, and stand up comedy.

James Pennix

James Pennix

Tricks of the Trade: Insider Tips to Navigating College Admissions”
Abstract
"The more you learn, the more you earn." Statistics show that there is a direct correlation to growth of income and level of degree obtained. To achieve such a level of financial and educational growth, we must understand and master the college going process. Students will learn the basics to Navigating the college going process. Let's not wait till later, let's start now!

Presenter’s Bio
James has served as the VPEM at Ferrum College since August 2017. He oversees the Office of Admission and the Financial Aid office. His primary responsibility is the development and implementation of the strategic enrollment plan at Ferrum. Prior to joining Ferrum College, James served as the Dean of Admissions and the AVP for Enrollment Management at Radford University for seven years. He began his admissions career at his alma mater, Roanoke College, in 2001 and served as the Director of Admissions for 3 years before departing to Radford University in 2010.

James considers himself a very unique enrollment professional because he loves his job and the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of young people. He has been a servant leader throughout his professional career and remains excited to serve students in the attainment of higher education. James has worked in higher education for 20 years. He worked as an assistant basketball coach for three years at Roanoke College prior to joining the admissions department in 2001.

James received his Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Roanoke College and his Masters in Social Work from Radford University. He is currently working on a Doctorate (EDD) in Higher Education Leadership at Walden University. James has been married to Lisa Belcher Pennix for 19 years. They have three sons: Damian (30 years old), Jamie (18 years old), and Jordan (16 years old). Those who know James would agree with his favorite description of himself, “I am blessed to be a blessing to young people.”

Dustin Scarborough

Dustin Scarborough

Decide & Conquer
Abstract
All of life’s events and circumstances are a result of decisions made! During this rendition of “Decide & Conquer: Destiny Driven Decisions”, we will build upon the foundations of this growing critical decision making philosophy and explore how it can help us conquer moments, overcoming obstacles, and manage oppositions.  

Presenter’s Bio
Joining us from the City of Hampton, Mr. Duston Scarborough is an alumnus of Virginia Tech by way of Pamplin College of Business. After completing his undergraduate experience in 2013 with a degree in Marketing Management, Mr. Scarborough began his career with Ferguson Enterprise as a sales trainee at their corporate offices in Newport News, VA. After a short time with the company, Duston switched directions and took on a new industry: urban retail. Beginning as a sales associate with industry leader DTLR Inc. (now DTLRVILLA with a recent acquisition), he quickly ascended the ranks, landing the role of Corporate Community Outreach Coordinator at the company’s headquarters in Baltimore, Maryland. Also in his time away from Tech, Mr. Scarborough has been an active part of numerous alumni efforts, having served three years on the Black Alumni Reunion Committee and two with the Black College Institute, the latter paving the way for his return to campus! Duston is excited to be home here in Blacksburg and to contribute to the rapidly improving climate for diversity in his new role as the Associate Director of Student Opportunities and Achievement Resources (SOAR) in the Office for Inclusion and Diversity (OID).

Kevin Stepheson & Corey Hackett-Greene

Kevin Stepheson & Corey Hackett-Greene

I AM ______
Abstract
As black men, we live in a world that has historically depicted our character with numerous negative connotations leading us further from establishing our true identity. Now more than ever, it is essential for us to understand our purpose and fulfill our obligation in the black community. The rise of the black community is contingent on the cultivation of our self-image, which will stimulate collective empowerment. We’re exactly who we’ve been waiting for.

Presenter’s Bio
No More Interviews is a movement inspired by vision and purpose. It is where dreams are fulfilled through belief and action which generates a complete faith that simply cannot co-exist with fear. This journey requires a firm decision to commit to a lifestyle stimulated by positive thoughts and like-minded individuals. Passion pushes you beyond limits which once left you bound while innovation allows you to create your own path each and every day. We are the leaders of the legacy that we choose to leave behind. Together we can change the world. We’re exactly who we’ve been waiting for.

Johnny Walker

Johnny Walker

Mindful Melanin Matters
Abstract
"To be a Negro in this country and to be relatively conscious, is to be in a rage almost all the time. So that the first problem is how to control that rage so that it won’t destroy you."- James Baldwin. First exploring this justifiable rage referenced by Baldwin, and thereafter discussing the importance of the ability to maneuver within it towards the prosperity of self & culture,  providing practical methods of doing so through mind-body practices and cultivation of mindfulness.  

Presenter’s Bio
Dat Dude Jonny is a consciousness artist, currently based out of Blacksburg, VA. He is a traveling instructor and speaker on matters of yoga/movement, mindfulness, and self-awareness and has led events at festivals, studios,  and universities across the country. At In Balance Yoga Studio he serves as the Community Outreach and Program Educator and is the Chief Yoga Officer for Metta Mats. As a member of the Black, male yoga collective Black Boys OM, he is adamant about bringing Black men into their truth & power through mind-body practices. Committed to breaking down the stigmas and barriers within the wellness industry, Dat Dude Jonny spends much of his time working to bring underserved and unnoticed populations to the realization of their truth.

Dr. Trey Waller

Dr. Trey Waller

True Colors: A Chromatic Approach to Leadership
Abstract
You can learn about leadership; it is not a gift limited to a select few. This workshop is for aspiring black men to identify and understand leadership information about themselves. This workshop will be engaging, interactive and practical for participants. Participants will participate in a guided activity and learn how to explore their own personality traits. The benefits of this workshop are the following:

  • Recognize the values, joys and strengths, stressors and frustrations of each color
  • Learn why teams need all four colors
  • Understand a how to communicate and relate with others of different True Colors
Dr. Jill Wendt

Dr. Jill Wendt

The Invisible Student: Retaining Minority Males in Higher Education
Abstract
Disparities exist among minorities in educational attainment. The gap widens when examining access to higher education and persistence rates among minority males as compared to their white counterparts and minority females. This presentation will highlight strategies in working with under-represented students, particularly minority males. Critical Race Theory will be highlighted as the theoretical framework by which to examine issues pertaining to minority male student perspectives and experiences. The results yielded eight assertions related to minority male retention and persistence.  

Presenter’s Bio
Dr. Jill Wendt received her Doctorate in Education in Leadership and Innovation in May 2014 from Arizona State University. She has taught in higher education for over twelve years. Her research interests and publications have focused on minority male retention in higher education. In addition to her faculty and researcher role, she was a practitioner in Student Affairs with the Educational Outreach Student Success Department at Arizona State University where her work with diversity, culture, and student success continued. In August 2016, she joined the Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College as a full time faculty member and is teaching Educational Psychology courses. Since coming to Arizona State University, she was successful in bringing for the Male Empowerment Network (M.E.N.) as a new initiative supported by the Deans of Student Services Office.  This initiative supports and promotes minority males in degree completion. She has received numerous awards for her leadership in the M.E.N. program. She contributed a chapter to the book “Engaging African American Men in Community College” as well as other publications. Her interests include the continuation of a holistic approach to student development, achievement and success with a focus on underserved student populations, particularly minority males.

Donnell Wright

Donnell Wright

Tricks of the Trade: Insider Tips to Navigating College Admissions”
Abstract
"The more you learn, the more you earn." Statistics show that there is a direct correlation to growth of income and level of degree obtained. To achieve such a level of financial and educational growth, we must understand and master the college going process. Students will learn the basics to Navigating the college going process. Let's not wait till later, let's start now!

Presenter’s Bio
Hailing from the South Side of Chicago, Donnell graduated from the University of Virginia with a Bachelors in Sociology. He continued his passion for access, affordability and success of underrepresented students through the VCAC where he served as a College Advisor at Armstrong High School in Richmond, VA. Currently serving as an Admissions Counselor in the Office of Undergraduate Admissions at VT, Donnell continues to be a source of information and motivation for students seeking higher education.