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Find out why so many of your friends, family, and neighbors depend on more than  local Financial Advisors in  o ces to help deliver fi nancial strategies for living the life they want. wellsfargoadvisors.com/st-louis DELUX POWER 100 celebrates the St. Louis’ most inspiring and influential African American professionals. DELUX recognizes those who lead, inspire, innovate and demonstrate through their individual talents, the very best in St. Louis. RETIREMENT WEALTH MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT PLANNING

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98636 DELUX Magazine Ad.indd 1 4/19/16 10:52 AM FLINT FOWLER JUNE FOWLER As a Boys & Girls Club professional, As senior vice president of Flint has served on several communications, June McAllister regional and national conference Fowler leads internal, external and planning committees, Board of public policy communications and the Professional Association, community relations efforts on The Training and Professional behalf of BJC HealthCare, Development committee, as a Career one of the largest nonprofit health Assistance Network coach, the care organizations in the United Commission for the Second Century, States and one of the largest private and the National Commission on employers in the state of Missouri. Impact. He is a graduate of the She has responsibility for multiple Management Program and the areas, including media relations, Thomas Garth Executive Leadership executive communications, Program, and in 2008 successfully community benefit, community completed the Advanced Leadership affairs, health literacy, corporate Program. Flint is active with marketing, creative services, web the Society of African American development, media services Professionals (S.O.A.A.P.), the Major and the award-winning employee Metro Advisory Committee, and newspaper, BJC Today. the Youth Development Advisory Committee.

MELISSA HARPER is responsible for developing, transforming and executing a holistic talent ANTHONY STEVEN HARRIS strategy that supports and drives a high-performance culture of innovation Steven is the Partner-In-Charge and inclusion and diversity. As the end-to-end talent leader, Melissa partners THOMPSON of RubinBrown’s Entrepreneurial with executives and HR leadership at all levels to drive and direct acquisition, Anthony (Tony) Thompson is the Services Group and a Partner in development, culture, and performance for nearly 70 countries across 400 CEO and Chairman of the Board RubinBrown’s Assurance Services worldwide locations. of Kwame Building Group, Inc. Group. Steven serves a variety During her 8 years with Monsanto, Melissa has developed a global team (KWAME), which he founded in of clients in the not-for-profit, responsible for attracting talent, developing leaders, ensuring an inclusive 1991. Headquartered in St. Louis, manufacturing, distribution, environment, shaping a digital culture, and delivering talent needs that align to MO, KWAME is a construction contractor, home builder, strategic business goals and preparedness for the future. The global scope of management/program management entertainment and public sector her role includes Talent Acquisition, Talent Management, Analytics/Operations, firm that serves as an independent industries. Inclusion & Diversity, University Relations, Employment Branding, Talent agent to the owner. KWAME Pipeline/Sourcing, HR Compliance, Contingent Workforce, Shared Services and provides, along with other services, Organizational Capabilities. project management, scheduling, estimating, contract/claims administration, and document controls. distinguished leaders

REV TRACEY KEITH BLACKMON Rev. Traci Blackmon is the Acting WILLIAMSON An experienced business executive Executive Minister of Justice & and corporate attorney, Keith joined Witness Ministries for The United Centene Corporation in 2006 and Church of Christ and Senior Pastor currently serves as General Counsel. of Christ The King United Church of Keith is on the board of PPL Christ in Florissant, MO. Corporation, a Fortune 250 utility, As a featured voice on many and is involved in various civic regional, national, and activities, including the Art Museum, international platforms, Rev. the Urban League, KIPP, and the Blackmon’s life work focuses on United Way. communal resistance to systemic injustice. Her response in Ferguson to the killing of Michael Brown resulted in national and international recognition, gaining her many audiences spanning the breadth of the White House to the Carter Center to the Vatican.

MICHAEL KENNEDY SR the first African American registered architect in the state of Missouri, founded MELANIE MOORE LEWIS REED Kennedy Associates in his hometown of St. Louis in 1980. Michael continued is the Co-President for NAAAHR President of The Board of Aldermen to grow his firm by successfully adding engineering and construction (National Association of African Lewis Reed has spent over management services to design services, leading to rebranding Kennedy Americans in Human Resources) 17 years serving the people of St. Associates to KAI Design & Build in 2004. In 2008, Mike’s son, Michael B. – St. Louis Chapter, serves on the Louis as an elected official. Active in Kennedy was named President of KAI and Michael became Chairman and Leadership Team for African and civic and charitable involvement he CEO. Among his achievements, Michael was named Most Influential Minority African Americans in Monsanto, serves as the head of the legislative Business Leader by the St. Louis Business Journal in and MBE Contractor of the participates on the United Way branch of St. Louis city government. year by MOKAN in 2008. He was named Entrepreneur of the Year in 2010 by Allocations Panel, is a member In his time in office, Lewis has The St. Louis American, and he has served on multiple boards and committees, of the Leadership 100 Cohort of championed many causes including including the Board of Directors for Downtown St. Louis Partnership, United the Regional Business Council founding Bike St. Louis and the Way, American Red Cross and is a member of the Missouri Minority Advocacy Young Professionals Network and rebirth of Washington Avenue. He Commission. In 2010, KAI was named one of the “Top 100 African American is Director on the ALPFA Board. is responsible for passing legislation Owned Businesses in America” by diversitybusiness.com . Melanie was recognized in February addressing crime prevention, 2016 by the St. Louis American creating opportunities for at-risk as one of twenty Young Leaders. youth, environmental sustainability, Melanie resides in St. Louis with her as well as neighborhood and son. economic development. AAREN MUEX NICHOL STEVENSON founder and owner of Divine Events from East St Louis, IL and a single has successfully planned events mother of two. Homeless by the for great organizations like United time she was 16, Nicol earned her Way of Greater St. Louis for the GED and left E St Louis. She went on Charmaine Chapman Leadership to earn her BS degree from Illinois Society’s 20th Anniversary Gala. State University & achieved her Aaren was featured on 2 seasons as MPH/MSW from St. Louis University. the Wedding Planner for the reality After graduation, Nichol accepted a show Welcome to Sweetie Pies. position at Washington University Under Aaren’s leadership, Divine School of Medicine developing the Events received The Knot Best of Dream House. The first housing Weddings 2015. Aaren is a proud facility for homeless HIV positive member of Association of Bridal youth in the metropolitan area. Also Consultants and has been chosen Nichol joined forces to formulate to serve as State Manager for 5 what is now known as Cafe Soul St. surrounding states. Louis.

DR. SHARONICA L. HARDIN-BARTLEY the superintendent for University City School District. A native of St. Louis, Dr. KEVIN BRYANT LESLIE GILL Hardin-Bartley has a 15-year plus career in St. Louis Public Schools. She served Founder and CEO of Conversions Chief Executive Officer of Annie as SLPS Chief Human Resources Officer, Principal on Special Assignment, and Global Marketing, LLC, Kevin Malone Children & Family Service was the founding principal of Adams Elementary School. Throughout her career, has 15+ years of experience in Center. Previously, she served as Dr. Hardin-Bartley has been active within the community and serves on the branding, advertising and marketing. the executive director of the St. Boards of Big Brothers Big Sisters and the Community Action Agency of St. He has guided dozens of top Louis region for College Summit, Louis County. companies, celebrities, nonprofits, chief operating officer and chief of municipalities, and corporations in external affairs for the Girl Scouts of their business success. Kevin has Eastern Missouri and chief operating been named St. Louis’ Neighborhood officer for mission delivery for the Business of the Year by Mayor Girl Scouts of Atlanta. Francis G. Slay, appointed to serve as President of the Kingsway Merchants Association, and leads many youth initiatives within our city. the visionaries

TRINA CLAGGETT JAYLEN D. Sr. Audience Marketing and Events Manager for Microsoft, who oversees BLEDSOE the partnership strategy aligning the an entrepreneur, motivational commercial field organization and speaker, and technical prodigy retail organization across greater at the young age of 18 years. Microsoft. Prior to joining Microsoft, Beginning at 12 when he started Trina served as the Director of his own Information Technology Marketing and Special Events Consulting business called Bledsoe for the St. Louis Gateway Classic Technologies, LLC (now The Sports Foundation. She is active Jaylen D. Bledsoe Global Group), in her community servicing on the Jaylen started with a dream and Executive Board of the Monsanto $100. Within two years, he had YMCA and the Board of Directors for 150 contractors working for him the St. Louis Internship Program. and was providing expertise in brand development consulting, Venture Capital Funding, direct marketing platform development and increasing revenue streams for clients such as Jordin Sparks and Steve Harvey.

DR. E. LANCE MCCARTHY a nationally recognized economist and investment advisor, with a specialty KAREN HALL JACQUE LAND in urban development. His public policy research, Fortune 100 experience, Karen Hall’s passion for educational An enterprising entrepreneur co- entrepreneurial endeavors and non-profit initiatives give him insight into our equity and excellence drives her owner of Platinum Group Worldwide, nation’s most pressing problems. He is the Co-Founder of Black Silicon Valley relationships and leadership. She Inc., which offers services in & Ferguson 1000 Jobs, a former President and CEO of the Orlando Urban is committed to continuing the event consulting, promotions, League and previously named to the White House Task Force on Economic success of the district and building public relations and responsible Defense Conversion appointed by President Bill Clinton. upon the strong foundation the for major events throughout the community has created together. Region. Jacque is also co-owner of Karen Hall took the helm as JHL Concessions, LLC., a company Superintendent at Maplewood specializing in top quality first-rate Richmond Heights School District concessions operating inside the in July 2012, following 19 years Scottrade Center. As a community as an educator and administrator leader, Jacque served as executive in both Maplewood Richmond director and 2 terms as president Heights School District (Assistant of 100 Black Men of Metropolitan Superintendent) and the Pattonville St. Louis, Mayor appointment to School District where she was the the St. Louis Public Library Board principal at Willow Brook Elementary and Governor appointment to the School. Missouri Lottery Commission. ALEX FENNOY CHEERAZ GORMON CAPTAIN RON BARBARA BOWMAN Senior Vice President and Director Storyteller, poet, author, and currently serves as Vice President of of Community Development of award winning advertising creator JOHNSON Development for the Urban League Midwest BankCentre.. He has 18 from St. Louis, Missouri. She of the Missouri State Highway Patrol of Metropolitan St. Louis, Inc. Ms. years of experience in commercial recently appeared on VICELAND’s was selected by Gov. Jay Nixon Bowman holds a Bachelor’s Degree banking, most recently served as Abandoned, has opened up for to coordinate law enforcement in Business Administration from a Vice President of National City scholar Cornell West and hip agencies amid the uproar over the Saint Louis University. A committed Bank. Mr. Fennoy sits on the St. hop impresario Russell, and is a Ferguson police response to protests volunteer, Bowman serves as Clair County Board for the United sought-after speaker, appearing at in the days following Michael Vice Chairperson of CHIPS Board Way, mentors with Inroads Alumni TEDxGatewayArch and other venues Brown’s death. A lifelong resident of of Directors and on the board of and serves as finance committee . Cheeraz served as curriculum and the St. Louis area, Johnson is a 27- Provident Inc. She is a member of chair for the Jackie Joyner-Kersee creative director of The Marcus year veteran of the Highway Patrol the Links, Inc., Delta Sigma Theta and Foundation. He earned a bachelor’s Graham Project, is the founder and and oversees Troop C, which serves serves on the St. Louis Children’s degree in accounting from Fisk executive director of Sonic Arts 11 counties around St. Louis. He Hospital Community & Faith Based University in Nashville, Tenn. United, and serves as vice chair of was appointed to the Peace Officer Advisory Board. Creative Reaction Lab. Standards and Training Commission by Missouri governor Matt Blunt in 2007, as well.

DR. CHRISTI GRIFFIN JULIO SUÁREZ DESIREE COLEMAN ANTHONY SHAHID a retired attorney and founder Senior Director of Community an accomplished Community Brother Shahid is also very of The Ethics Project, an award- Affairs at Anheuser-Busch. In his Relations executive with more passionate about helping his winning, social justice organization. position, Julio sets and leads than 15 years of experience in people against discrimination, Frequently recognized for the company’s multicultural the public, private and nonprofit counting employment. He believes contributions to the community, outreach strategy in the United sectors. As Vice President of that part of our problem as a Griffin has served as Chair of the States. He also collaborates with Community Relations at Wells community stems from the lack St. Louis Civil Rights Enforcement internal stakeholders in support Fargo Advisors, she provides of employment opportunities due Commission, and on boards of Anheuser-Busch’s Better World leadership, strategy and execution to discrimination. This belief is including Kenrick-Glennon Seminary programs, including employee of the company’s St. Louis market why he has gone up against many and the United Way. A loving mother volunteerism and social impact corporate social responsibility, Fortune 500 Companies, such and grandmother, Griffin is also a initiatives. Before joining Anheuser- employee engagement, reputation, as Sherwin-Williams, Pepsi-Cola, columnist and author, including her Busch in 2014, Julio was Director and risk management plans. Prior Southwest Airlines, UPS, Sam’s, recent book, Incarcerations in Black of Diversity Outreach at Darden to Wells Fargo Advisors, Coleman Shop N Save, Value City, and the and White: The Subjugation of Black Restaurants. Throughout his oversaw major gifts fundraising and St. Louis Convention Center with a America. career, Julio has served in multiple volunteer engagement initiatives at “no compromise” position and has community boards and is currently a United Way of Greater St. Louis. made them hire thousands of black board member of the Urban League people in management and non- of Metropolitan St. Louis. management positions. the community builders

LASHELL Pastor Cori Bush a mother of two, RN Supervisor/ EIKERENKOETTER Clinic Manager and ordained pastor. a freedom fighter, community She is an activist & organizer activist and visual artist whose main with Ferguson Frontline founding goal is to unite and liberate the full member of Mobilize Missouri and range of the black community in St. co-director of The Truth Telling Louis. Her activism work started in Project. She is a recipient of the the streets of Ferguson in August of 2015 Woman of Courage Award 2014 and she has since continued from the Emmett Till Legacy to support, lead and capture visuals Foundation, and most recently ran of efforts to bring awareness and a groundbreaking campaign for the justice to the issues regarding the U.S. Senate in Missouri, mobilizing African-American community. thousands to engage in the political process. Cori plans to continue to stand alongside the youth and communities in the fight for justice.

WENDELL COVINGTON JR. currently serves as the president and chief executive officer of Mathews- REENA HAJAT TEF POE Dickey Boys and Girls Club. Dedicating his entire career for the service of rapper, musician and activist. Poe youth and families, Covington has spent the last decade serving as a highly CARROLL co-founded the Hands Up United accomplished administrator. Covington has worked as a teacher, social worker, the Executive Director of the movement and is consistently guidance counselor and non-profit organization manager. Previously, he was Diversity Awareness Partnership advocating for grass-root the director of the Gateway to College Program at Florissant Valley Community (DAP). She holds a masters degree involvement in improving the lives College. in social work from Washington of African Americans and racial University’s Brown School of justice around the world. In his Social Work with an emphasis on art and activism, he insists on the social and economic development. value of local people taking charge Currently, she serves on several of conversations about their own boards in the St. Louis community communities rather than relying on and appointed by Governor Nixon national organizations. to the Missouri Community Service Commission. Reena is the recipient of various awards, such as the St. Louis Business Journal’s Inclusive Leader Award and the Bank of America’s Local Hero Award. APRIL LINDSEY BRYAN SCOTT KENDRA HOLMES DOROTHY has enjoyed a successful multimedia is the Vice President of Integrated is the Vice President, Chief sales and management career for Quality for Boeing Defense, Space Operating Officer of Affinia ROBINSON the last 16 years in radio, print, & Security at The Boeing Company. Healthcare. Holmes went to Metro a mother first and attempts to be the digital and event advertising. During Scott is responsible for Quality Academic and Classical High consummate saleswoman second. this time, she’s been fortunate to across the entire BDS organization School and earned her doctorate Born and raised in the heart of St contribute her skills in magazine including supply chain compliance in Pharmacy from St. Louis College Louis City, Dorothy attended Vashon publishing in Cleveland Ohio at and conformance of purchased of Pharmacy, where she serves on High School. After graduation, she Advanstar UMB Americas, and here products and services. He earned its Board of Trustees. Holmes also began studying at the University in St. Louis at the local daily paper a Bachelors of Science degree in completed a Community Health of Missouri-St Louis, where she The Post-Dispatch, as well as the Aviation Management from Southern Center Executive Fellowship at the graduated with a bachelors degree St. Louis Business Journal and now Illinois University at Carbondale and University of Kansas Medical Center. in Finance in 2009. Radio One on leading Hot 104.1 and a Masters of Management degree Dorothy received her Master’s Old School 95.5 stations. If you can’t from Fontbonne University in St. Degree in Business and Marketing catch April collaborating with clients Louis Missouri. from Webster University in 2011. on advertising campaigns to grow She is now a top seller for Mercedes- their business and penetrate the Benz of St. Louis, selling the best market it’s because she’s spending cars in the world to customers from time with her beloved thirteen- all walks of life. year-old daughter Caroline and life partner Daniel James.

SHAY L. GILLESPIE TIFFANY FOXX RAPHAEL MORRIS TURAN MULLINS Corporate Supplier Diversity From lending her lyrical skills on the Founding Member of The Morris With leadership experience in Manager for World Wide Technology, the BET Awards Cypher set, to Firm, LLC. A dedicated St. Louis higher education and community Shay is responsible for their global joining the cast of Love & Hip Hop: Criminal Defense and Personal collaboration Turan has become supplier diversity program which Atlanta, to captivating a London Injury Attorney, attended and an established leader that has the includes managing approximately audience alongside Lil Kim; Tiffany graduated from Normandy Senior ability to execute visions and meet 300 million dollars in procurement Foxx has became a name known High School in 1996. Being inspired organizational goals. His ability to activity and advocating and to the masses. Her dedicated fan by the careers of Thurgood Marshall easily transcend cultural differences mentoring small and diverse base, recognizes her as a voice to and Johnnie Cochran, Mr. Morris and lead diverse groups of people businesses. Shay is vice chair of the be reckoned with in the rap game. chose received his Doctorate in has allowed him to build strong St. Louis Minority Business Council’s This St. Louis native, was inspired Jurisprudence from the Thurgood relationships with stakeholders at board of directors. In 2015, she by the likes of Nelly and in a short Marshall School of Law in Houston every level in the community. His was appointed to the executive amount of time found herself signed Texas. Mr. Morris also serves as a current involvement with the St. board of directors for the Down to Doggy Style Records. With a municipal judge in the Cities of Louis Business Diversity Initiatives, Syndrome Association of Greater major single featuring Snoop Dog, Velda City and Northwoods in St. Diversity Awareness Partnership, St. Louis to help elevate programs King Foxx left the label and joined Louis County. Consortium of Higher Education and funding for the organization the girl group June 5th. Tiffany Professionals for Inclusion and including advocacy for her own son, contiue to break barriers in the Rap Equity and Boys and a Girls Clubs of Diggy, who was born with Down communities and beyond. Greater St. Louis has allowed him to syndrome in 2008. engage with different organizations. the power houses

MIKE FRAZIER II MIKE HALL ELSON WILLIAMS THERON MORGAN With a genuine passion for Michael Hall oversees all business Elson Williams, Major Brands currently serves as the Director automobiles his dream car is aspects concerning the Community community affairs liaison, of Business Development at a Bugatti Veyron, but is more Relations department and Cardinals Ballpark Village in St. Louis. His passionate about providing his Care, the charitable arm of the St. role and responsibilities are spread clients with the car of their dreams. Louis Cardinals. among several areas that include: Mike is equipped with 19 + years of operations, community relations, expertise in the automotive industry. Hall’s journey through the Cardinals sponsorships and sales. Theron His leadership accompanied with organization started during the has spent over 20 years as an knowledge gained as a Leasing strike year of 1995 working as a account manager and director in Manager, Sales Manager, Finance telemarketer, selling season tickets sales and sponsorships in a variety Manager, and General Sales Manager via cold calls during the baseball of industries including dining and prepared the development for strike. He continued moving up the entertainment, sports and consumer Frazier Automotive to be established corporate ladder with a variety of goods. He understands how the in 2001. Now partnered with Travers positions, ranging from customer relationship between sports and Automotive Mike Frazier and Frazier service to on-field entertainment. entertainment ties-in with the Automotive only provides his relationship to corporate branding clients with an excellent Full Service and consumer goods. Automotive Experience.

TONY ‘TLUV’ DAVIS TERRENCE RODGERS MITZI LOWERY RICKEY started a new company with sports is a St. Louis born and based banking a Senior Manager, Project and industry partners Abe Givins, Jamal professional. He is a Partner/Vice Program Management, that manages WHITTINGTON Clark and Jamaal Jackson called President of Mortgage Lending a staff of project managers for began his career in sales while Star Power Marketing. Star Power is at Carrollton Bank, a $1.2 billion Magellan Healthcare Services. She in college working for Anheuser a marketing and branding agency privately held bank, employee serves on the Health Services Panel Busch in the sales and marketing that creates strategized and tailored owned bank that has been led by for the United Way and on the board department. Working for Lincoln solutions with and for a unique the same family for five generations. of her Home Owners Association. Mercury, Rickey was awarded the top clientele balance of sports and His role includes community Mitzi earned her bachelor’s degree Lincoln Mercury salesman honors entertainment. Some of those clients development and leading the in Biology from the University of for the region for 10 years and #1 include former NBA players Larry origination of consumer home loan Missouri-St. Louis and a MBA from in leasing for 2 years in the country Hughes and Darius Miles. programs including Conventional, Lindenwood University. She enjoys out of 12 years. After accepting an While most go on and leave their FHA, VA, and Jumbo Loans. Prior to traveling with her husband Michael, opportunity, Rickey transitioned hometowns, Tony has chosen to joining Carrollton Bank, Terrence 2 children and grandson. to the prominent dealership Plaza remain a pillar in his community worked at Wells Fargo a Sales Motors. His most profound work of St. Louis, MO. He and his wife Manager and District Manager, and is working in his community and Gabrielle Davis rs , together are Vice President and Small Business engaging established relationships. raising beautiful children which Banker at Regions bank. Tony boasts about as his biggest accomplishmentl EDDIE HOLMAN JAYSON TATUM Licum nimovigit, unter quem dium College basketball player who tusulocus ego ips, catum pribus currently attends Duke University. vigilic aetios, simiures ad consis. Ranked as the No. 3 overall recruit in Satis cris nos iae cus se ta, Catum the 2016 high school class by ESPN st patus, Caturei conscerum stod and Rivals, Tatum was named 2016 atususs ilnenati sestatum hocus Gatorade Male Athlete of the Year caestemur quium omnihilic restam & Gatorade National Player of the elus, utum estra, fuid sunium, Year. Alongside a host of outstanding uroremei conditaliam is, que vis accomplishments and awards, Tatum verent? O tu ena, condius et et has two siblings and the son of que milis octum inihili cerrio Justin Tatum and Brandy Cole. nonvervidem dendacenam di pos omne cut L. Ad rem publicte conequem estrendienam sultore nsicae inescrei tatum issuppl. O tam rei prit? Ximus in Itarterem, nonductodi, quod cles nihilic

ANGELA GRADY APRYLETE RUSSELL Director of Diversity and Inclusion also known as the “Radio Diva” is an for Mercy, serving 45 hospitals On-Air Talent and with Radio One and 40,000 co-workers. As a result and Community Affairs Assistant of her dynamic leadership, Mercy at Fox2 News/KPLR11 St. Louis. In earned a prestigious $460,000 this role, Aprylete engages with grant to expand disability and the community on a personal level; inclusion services. Angela is a speaking for the urban demographic, proud Dance Mom of a 14-year- gathering human interest news old daughter, Madison. To her stories and assisting with media credit, she is an alumni of sponsorship for organizations. the St. Louis Business Diversity A big believer in community Initiative, has progressive outreach, she works with a wide professional experience within variety of organizations throughout Human Resources and a master’s the metropolitan area. American degree in Human Resources from Red Cross Midwest, Alzheimer’s Webster University. Association, and Annie Malone Children and Family Service Center. the rising stars

LATONIA COLLINS- MARTEL HULSEY Martel Hulsey’s journey to become SMITH a marketing specialist began long Assistant Provost and Executive before Radio One. While growing Director of the Center for Career up in St. Louis, he was involved Engagement at Harris-Stowe State in music, entertainment, and University. Smith earned a bachelor’s small business ventures. These of social work degree from the elements provided Martel with the LATANYA REEVES University of Central Missouri, foundation to pursue a career that Community Development Officer at Enterprise Bank & Trust. With 10+ a master’s of social work and a could encompass all three. After years of progressively increasing relationship and capacity building with master’s of public health degree graduating from Maryville University, banking institutions, nonprofits, entrepreneurs and the political campaign from Saint Louis University and a he seized an opportunity as an sector; Reeves is a current manager of multiple community outreach doctorate of education in higher Integrated Marketing Specialist with programs supporting assets greater than $3.2 billion. She has a passion for education leadership from Maryville Radio One. Now he’s able to put developing the urban community and serving on nonprofit boards. University of St. Louis. his experiences on display while effectively growing businesses.

KENDRA AUSTIN ELLICIA QUALLS RASHEEN COLEMAN MIKE RODGERS Director of Supplier Diversity at Executive Director of Urban graduated from Morehouse College a silver Olympic Medalist in the Express Scripts. She received her Sprouts, a diverse Reggio Emilia and Texas A&M University. In 100 meter dash. Rodgers attended BS in business administration from school focusing on early childhood response to Ferguson, Rasheen Lindenwood University and Langston University and her MBA education. With over 15 years founded Young Men Inspired, an Oklahoma Baptist University where from Webster University. Starting of experience in the field, Qualls after-school group for African he was a 10-time NAIA national her career in public housing, but is committed to developing and American students at City Garden champion from 2005-2007. He still ended up in supply chain, Austin’s administering programs that School. The mission of Young Men holds the NAIA Indoor 60m record previous positions have consisted of enrich the lives of children and Inspired is to assist young black men with a 6.65. Rodgers personal goals supplier diversity executive, Ameren; their families. Among her proudest in cultivating their leadership skills, was to be able to beat Justin Gatlin procurement agent, Anheuser- achievements at the College building character, and attaining and Usian Bolt at least once in his Busch; financial analyst for contract is extending Early Childhood academic success. Rasheen lives career, he was able to accomplish strategies, BJC Healthcare; acting Education (ECE) courses to the St. in Soulard with his wife, Desiree, that goal. director, development and technical Louis community, in partnership and their two lovely daughters. He services, St. Louis Housing Authority. with the Boeing Company. works at Maryville University as a Development Director. TARA WASHINGTON is the ownerof Tasty Treats Snack GET THE DELUX MAGAZINE APP shop on Delmar in St. Louis BECASUE THATS WHAT POWERFUL PEOPLE DO

JOEANN MCCLANDON owner opperator of Discount Queen Beauty Supply. Queen Beauty is a beacon of pride and a symbol of visit www.deluxmag.com hope in our community. Establishing a stake in this industry has been nearly impossible for African Americans due to the market being dominated other cultures. It has always been fine for our community to purchase from them, but it’s been difficult to establish a business along side them. Now that Discount Queen Beauty Supply is here, they want to serve as an symbol that it can be done. spirit of the entreprenuer

BOBBY TESSLER CANDICE COX JOHN LEWIS LETITIA A YOUNG is not only a talented Chef, but owner of A&A Inspirations, a At a young age of 13, John Lewis fashion lover, full figure woman, a community leader, successful provider of counseling and found himself at 315 pounds, but stylist and owner of Honey’s Child entrepreneur, mentor and an consulting services to children and through hard work and dedication Boutique. Honey’s Child Boutique inspiring motivational speaker. He families who suffer from mental he lost the weight and excelled in was recently featured in USA Today graduated from Sullivan University and or behavioral health issues. Cox football and basketball. Graduating for the Body Empowerment Issue. in Louisville, Kentucky with a creates client specific treatment and with a Bachelor’s degree in She has launched several plus size degree of Science in Culinary develops plans of management. Cox marketing from Harris Stowe model careers and continue to Arts Management. After trials and has a Master of Social Work from State University, John later went mentor aspiring stylist and models tribulations and heading down Saint Louis University and a Bachelor on to pursue his MBA from Nova throughout the St. Louis area. Letitia the wrong path, Bobby turned a of Science in Social Work from Southeastern University in Fort has earned a Bachelor’s Degree in journey in federal prison to a life of Southeast Missouri State University. Lauderdale, FL. John’s education Communications with an emphasis purpose. With hard work and proven in business coupled with his love in Theory and Rhetoric from the leadership, Chef Bobby opened for health and fitness gave him the University of Missouri-St. Louis. his own restaurant, St. Louis Wing ability to start his ventures – Bad She also hold a Master’s Degree Company. AssVegan and VeganSmart. in Management from Fontbonne University and an MBA from Webster University.

QUANTARRIUS MISHA SAMPSON STEVEN LACY TARA LOWERY co owner of Fleur De Lilies. An accomplished salon and shop former basketball standout at the WILSON Sampson is a St. Louisan whose owner since 1994, Steven Lacy University of North Carolina at has been into sports and fitness family has roots in Mobile, Alabama, has a talent for helping people to Charlotte began her career as a since a young age, a tri-athlete in where both Cajun and Creole culture shine one treatment at a time. He Makeup Artist just 4 years ago. Tara high school (football, wrestling, has had clients such as Nelly and began working as a freelancer and track) and a collegiate wrestler. predominate Chingy, and has a deep-rooted later opened The Beauty Lounge in Becoming a personal trainer love for the hair industry. Lacy has 2013. after college, Q Wilson decided attended Vidal Sassoon Advanced to begin his contest prep for his Trainings in Los Angeles, California, 1st bodybuilding competition. In and the esteemed Vidal Sassoon 2012, Q Wilson earned his ifpa Cutting School in London, England. professional natural bodybuilding Nationally he has trained with pro card and now operates the ROQ Freddie J, Patrick Bradley and Donnal Body Academy. Chung. He currently travels the country as a Specialist Educator with Design Essentials. ANDRE HOLMAN HOWARD BAILEY, JR. DEMETRIOUS JOHNNY LITTLE, JR. a native St. Louisan, is the Video better known by his stage name has over 16 years of Production Manager for STL TV, Chingy, is an American rapper, singer, JOHNSON communications and strategic St. Louis’ local government access and actor. Chingy began rapping in grew up in Darst-Webbe housing planning experience. Prior to starting channel. Under his leadership, his late teens, toured as an opening project in St. Louis, graduated eLittle Communications Group, he STL TV has celebrated their 25th act with Nelly and became a protégé from McKinley High School and worked as the executive director anniversary, won an Emmy, several of Ludacris. His debut album, the University of Missouri at of communications for St. Louis Black Journalist awards and national Jackpot, sold two million copies and Columbia where he was stand- Public Schools. Mr. Little majored in Telly Awards. Andre also serves as sequentially released chart toping out defensive back. In 1983, he television production at Rust College a Herbert Hoover Boys & Girls Club singles. was drafted by the Detroit Lions in Holly Spring, Mississippi. He football coaches, produces the of the NFL where he started and began his career as a news producer Bommarito High School Prep Zone played for seven seasons. Inspired at WJTV, CBS in Jackson, MS and games and continuously serves the to enhance the lives of inner city later moved to St. Louis, Missouri, as community at large. youth, he founded the Demetrious a news producer for KTVI Fox 2. Little Johnson Charitable Foundation and became CBS first African American remains active in the community. executive news producer at KMOV Johnson commentates high school in 2002. football and basketball for Charter Communications, host of Sportswave and host of the Demetrious Johnson Talk Show on HOT 104.1 FM.

DJ KUT KWOFE COLEMAN RENE KNOTT Most known for his impressive flair serves as Communications Director is constantly involved in covering for rocking parties and mesmerizing for the oldest and largest outdoor local college and high school sports. millions of listeners each day, KUT musical theater in the United States. He also enjoys covering St. Louis’ is credited with breathing new life After joining the Muny staff in 2008, professional teams as well. He into beats. His mix sets are some He has worked in the Finance and anchors the station’s local sports of the most celebrated pieces House Management areas prior to programming including This Week in on mainstream radio and he’s joining the Marketing Team. In this Cardinals Nation, and specials like garnered the love and admiration current position he developes and The Heart of St. Louis Sports. from everybody from Jay-Z to Mary implements DATA driven marketing Rene takes great pride living in St. J Blige. There are not many DJ’s plan that utilizes both digital Louis. He has emceed the St. Louis who can dig deeper in the crates, and traditional media to execute American’s Salute to Excellence while still having a mass appeal that targeted campaigns in order to meet in Healthcare, presented Woodie registers with everybody---old and annual sales goals. He also creates Awards for the St. Louis Black new. and oversees the marketing budget. Repertory Company and kicked off Other responsibilities include the a literacy campaign by reading to support and unification of external children. Rene also writes feature communications from both the stories about children in the foster Development and Sales teams. care system for NewsChannel 5’s A Place to Call Home. the communications + entertainment of the people

KEVIN JOHNSON OSEI KWEKU TYRON WOODLEY is a longtime music critic and Osei “The Dark Secret” Kweku – is Tyron Lanklet Woodley, from entertainment reporter at the St. perhaps one of the most underrated Ferguson, is an mixed martial artist Louis Post-Dispatch. He is the author broadcast talents who, over the and former amateur wrestler for of St. Louis’ top music blog, the years, has managed to merge his the University of Missouri. He is Blender, and appears weekly on Fox love for music and philanthropy into currently signed by the UFC and 2 in the Morning for entertainment a trans-continental culture exchange is the current UFC Welterweight reports. He has appeared on by way of digital media. Champion. CNN, KMOV, KMOX, 100.3 the Born in Ontario, Canada, Kweku’s Beat; Written for GQ, TV Guide, father, a medical doctor, returned to Vibe magazines; and a Recipient his native Ghana where he and his of a Pulitzer Prize for work on a family would reside for many years. race relations series (at previous Raised with convictions of obligatory newspaper, the Akron Beacon- community service, the satin-voiced Journal). talent spent most of his youth assisting his father, a U.S. medically trained physician, establish and manage Aninwaah Medical Centre – a free hospital for the people of Ghana where he now serves on the Board of Directors.

TRUMAINE WILLIE MOORE an inspirational speaker, licensed BARNETT-EPPS minister, Grammy recognized known as DJ Tab, a Hip hop DJ , recording artist, comedian, actor, record producer and entrepreneur. and Stellar Award Winning radio With nearly 15 mixtapes throughout personality. The host of the his music career, he has worked nationally syndicated radio show with D J Khaled, Chris Brown, “The Praise Mix Down”, executive Bow Wow and J-Kwon . In 2015, producer of the “Willie Moore he was nominated in the Midwest Jr. Live Flatout TV Show”, and a Regional Club DJ of the Year at the servant leader of the national youth 4th edition of the annual Global organization Young Fly & Saved. Spin Awards. He is presently a DJ on Previously he signed a 1.3 million Hot 104.1, with his own radio show dollar deal with Universal Records called Get-N-Tune radio on Saturday and later began his own record label nights. Trumaine also launched his WILFLO MUSIC GROUP. clothing lined Empire Clothing and in the spring of 2016 launched “GETNTUNE” and energy drink that is distributed throughout St.Louis. KEITH HARRIS ROB RUGER has nearly 20 years of experience was born in St.louis ...With a passion and a notable track record in sports to succeed he stayed focus on being business and innovation, including the best man he could be...helping the National Football League, others as he study all crafts of life... beverage promotion and event As Co Founfer of Ethno Nightlife marketing, retail, corporate branding, he has become one of the top television, and business and internet media personalities in the country development. Currently, Harris by recreating the way events are is the branch marketing manager covered...he has been on the Red for Home Depot’s St. Louis, Metro carpet of many amazing events Illinois and Kansas City markets. In including..The BET Awards...Grammys 2002, he started his own integrated and other high profile events...his marketing solutions company, main focus is to create a media Koncepts Integrated Marketing platform unmatched as well as Solutions. A lifestyle marketing teaching the youth the artist is only company that specializes in building as important as the media makes brands. them...

MURPHY LEE + KYJUAN brothers first Lunatics second. Part of the St. Louis super group St. Lunatics. Murphy Lee and Kyjuan have branched out in multiple other entrprenueral WILLIAM PORTER VERONICA “MOUSIE” opportinties such as D’Bes Wines, Vape Ya Tailfeather, UCME, and continuing to Master Pieza was created in 2008 make good music. This brother tandum is “So St. Louis Ask the tattoist”. by William Porter, a pizza lover. He HALEY believed that he could make a pizza Started in radio Radio One Q95.5 in that was better tasting and better 2001. In 2004 she was promoted for you. They are “Investing in a to Promotions/Marketing Director Healthier Community from Scratch”. In 2005 she started working for National Recording Artist Chingy and Slot A Lot Records as Assistant Manager. In 2007 she went to work for Nelly and Derry Ent as assistant Manager of Derry Studios Also helped Open and run Nelly’s Music School EI. In 2013 coordinator for iHeart Radio and 2015 became the Promotions Director for The Beat, Hallelujah 1600 and now KLOU. the social + cultural influencers

SABRINA MCFIELD RHASHAD WHITTIER is a World Wide Choreographer and Graphic Designer - Creative - Event Dancer, Owner of Voila Studio Salon, Coordinator - Influencer and Women Empowerment Speaker. She has choreographed 5 National Tours for R. Kelly and backup danced on 8 world wide tours. Sabrina choreographed the highly talked about “Do What You Want” Lady Gaga and R. Kelly performance that aired on SNL and has been a featured dancer with the industry’s finest talent of today including Rihanna and Beyonce. Today, harnessing her entrepreneurial skills from Hollywood, she has partnered with her sister and established Voila! Studio Salon, St. Louis’ Natural Hair Headquarters where they are “Setting Standards, Not Just Hair”.

SLIM S.L.I.M. is a celebrity in his own right on the St. Louis entertainment and PHIL ASSETS JADE HARRELL nightlife scene. He’s been a promoter since 2002 and has made a name Owner of Liquid Assets Event (9 Jade Harrell is the charismatic for himself beyond the 314 in cities like Miami, Atlanta, Indianapolis and years) and subsidiary promotional creator and executive producer of Cincinnati. He has that equal parts charm and arrogance that makes for the companies Leading Ladies and RareGem Productions, a positive stereotypical mogul. In addition to promoting concerts and weekly nights at Yung Assets. Meso Social marketing media production and consultation clubs around the city and beyond, he’s working with rising rappers Lil St. Louis manager. Former multi club company. Her voice reverberates and Vega Sills. He’s passionate about getting into the business of making owner. National Concert and event globally through multiple platforms movies sooner than later – he even co-starred in “Streetballerz” several years promotor Stvlouis, Kansas City Mo, of strictly positive programming, back. S.L.I.M. is trying to make the city a serious contender on the nightlife chicago, Indy, Atl Houston Ect. charitable efforts and appearance. scene. He brings celebs to host events, parties and do shows at clubs. He holds She produces over 20 programs his own parties and has hosted a celebrity basketball tournament at Chaifetz. including iTunes #1 ranked “The Model Health Show” and the award winning “Alive and Well STL”. Next up is the “Let’s Get It! Together” show merging her talent, skill and passion to do more community good! the policy leaders

BRUCE FRANKS JR DON CALLOWAY HAZEL ERBY KENA GRAY Bruce Franks is a South St. Louis In 2016 Don left A-B and Hazel Erby has been a resident of Kena Gray, is the operations director City native and small business founded Pine Street Strategies, University City for over 35 years. She for Southern Illinois Healthcare owner who is focused on being a D.C. public affairs firm that was elected to the St. Louis County Foundation and credits her health- a community activist and leader. specializes in government relations, Council for a second term in 2006, a care heroes as her grandmothers. He is the newly elected State communications and political races. third term in 2010 and a fourth term Starting as a process improvement Representative of the 78th District, Pine Street has grown rapidly to now in 2014. She became the first African manager, Gray has quickly moved appointment as Police Community include three full-time lobbyists and American female to serve on the St. up the ranks to her current role Liason by the St. Louis City Police four part-time strategic advisors, and Louis County Council. She served as operations director, where she chief, and recognized as a Champion has a growing portfolio of fortune as Chair of the Council in 2009 and oversees healthcare centers in the of Change by The White House. 100 companies, non-profit groups, 2014. In 2015, Council Member Riverbend area. In addition, Gray Franks also has a profound passion and national political candidates. Erby serves on the Committee on serves as a health center manager for encouraging and guiding youth Disabilities, The Justice, Health and at Centerville Health Center, having and is a regional organizer for Don lives in Washington DC with Welfare Committee and is a Member previously managed Fairmont City, Generation Progress. his two sons Cal and Benjamin, who of the Committee of the Whole. Washington Park and Bethalto health informed Don last month that he centers. Gray takes much pride in would now be known only as “the helping change health care policies Benj”. This was to be expected, standing today. considering that Don named the Benj after his favorite rapper.

MARIA CHAPPELLE- RASHEEN ALDRIDGE SUSAN JONES JOE PALM a community organizer and activist. Susan draws upon experience as In 2009, Joseph became the Chief NADAL Born and raised in St. Louis, Aldridge a concerned citizen, community of the Office of Minority Health, Maria Chappelle-Nadal is a serves as director of an organization activist, student, and product of Missouri Department of Health Democratic member of the Missouri called Young Activist United St. St. Louis Public Schools. She is and Senior Services. As the chief, State Senate, representing District Louis and sits as student co-chair the Manager of Supplier Diversity he is responsible for monitoring 14. She was first elected to the on the Missouri Jobs with Justice. for Emed Medical Company, and the progress of all programs in the chamber in 2010. Beginning in the He has a passion for justice and is a pursuing a second Master’s Degree Missouri Department of Health and 2015 session, Chappelle-Nadal leader in the Show Me 15 workers’ in Business Administration at Senior Services for their impact serves as Minority Whip. In 2010, rights movement advocating living Webster University. Susan took the on eliminating health disparities, Chappelle-Nadal was elected to wages for fast food workers. He initiative to service her community increasing health equity, and the University City School Board. has been recognized by the Youth heavily in the 27th ward. Ms. ensuring cultural competency & She earned her B.A. in political Council for Positive Development Jones has done it all from offering sensitivity. He is also the key advisor science/Sociology from Georgia with the ‘2013 Jamala Rogers Young her leadership with community to the Director on various health State University. Her professional Visionary Award. meetings and mentoring, to helping matters that affect minorities; in experience includes working as with clean up days, and getting addition, he serves as a liaison to Director of Communications for residents registered to vote. the Missouri General Assembly. Lieutenant Governor Joe Maxwell. the categories

THE DISTINGUISHED LEADERS The Distinguished Leader is based on evidence of exemplary leadership that demonstrates an awareness and contribution to effective leadership in the community at large. This leader has transcended boundaries, alongside showed progressive levels of responsibility and commitment, either within a single organization or through collaborative enterprise with others.

THE VISIONARIES The Visionary Honoree is based on being a leading voice within their respective fields of expertise that is innovatively mobilizing communities and/or organizations. Is recognized for their transformational strengths that make leaders among their peers and have a strong commitment to governance, innovation, diversity, and corporate/ civic responsibility.

THE COMMUNITY BUILDERS The Community Builder Honoree is based on having created lasting change and measurable difference in the community through commitment and perseverance. Leading initiatives that create community inclusivity through opportunities for people at disadvantage to build social capital and live full, meaningful lives in their community, as contributing and valued members of their community.

THE POWER HOUSES The Power House Honoree is based on being a driving force in bringing respective entities together in quantifiable extraordinary success. Having navigated non- traditional or established markets, this honoree is recognized as a key figure with high regard within their industry.

THE RISING STARS The Rising Stars Honoree is based on our rising leaders today who are mobilizing change and garnering support across their fields with the support of top leaders in their respective industries.

THE SPIRIT OF THE ENTREPRENEURS The Spirit of the Entrepreneurs Honoree is based on the entrepreneurs who have taken the road less traveled with success that has overcome obstacles and identified new opportunities. From the creation of products to services, they are seen as an economic driver for the community. They represent significant achievements in launching new companies, opening new markets and fueling the job growth within the community.

THE COMMUNICATIONS & ENTERTAINMENT OF THE PEOPLE The Communications & Entertainment of the People Honoree is based on personalities from the field of entertainment or communication leaders who have been recognized as influential in guiding the industry toward success. Their work has transcended innovation and craft, and moved people to make a lasting impact.

THE SOCIAL & CULTURAL INFLUENCERS The Social & Cultural Influencers Honoree is based on expertise in delivering impact through engagement, fashion, art and cultural experiences. These dynamic leaders, have proven success in creating exceptional experiences that gerenate pleasurable outlets for the community.

THE POLICY LEADERS The Policy Leader Honoree is based on creating successful policy initiatives and championing their respective fields to create progressive change.