Escolar Documentos
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La Francis Rodgers-Rose
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Mission Statement
The International Black Womens Congress is a global community of women of African descent bound by our ancestral spirituality. Our vision is to bring forth exemplary models of African womanhood by defining ourselves, embracing ourselves, and improving ourselves through socio-political and economic empowerment.
I N T E R N AT I O N AL B L AC K W O M E N S C O N G R E S S T R AI N I N G C O N F E R E N C E S 2010 - 2014
2010 Weaved in the Fabric: A Wholistic Perspective on Violence Against Black Women, Norfolk, VA 2011 Healing Black Women from Violence: Reclaiming Our Rightful Place, Baltimore, MD 2012 2013 The Impact of the HIV/AIDS Pandemic on Black Women and Girls, Atlanta, GA The Global Village: Organizing and Embracing Women of African Ancestry, Washington, DC 2014 From Poverty to Prosperity: Women Shaping Their Economic Future, Denver, CO
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We take this walk into a new life, a new beginning: setting exemplary models of womanhood. We understand and accept that we have an earnest, difficult, inescapable task of building up African people worldwide. In taking our task, we call upon the ancestors of our sisterhood: those sisters whose names have been forgotten but whose deeds will live for eternity, who lie in unmarked graves; those sisters whose bodies sit in the Atlantic Ocean and wait in patience for us to bring forth their redemption. To the sisters who never thought of bowing to the weight that Black women have carried for so long, we collectively say: HERE WE STAND WILLINGLY TAKING THAT WHICH YOU HAVE BEQUEATHED US Creating something everlasting to give to the next generation. We ask for the guidance of our foremothers, their visions, and their strength in our endeavor to make the International Black Womens Congress all that it needs to be for our victory. As we take this step, we pledge an unbreakable loyalty to each other, our families, and our people. We are committed to act as advocates never turning from the path of freedom, to call forth our highest dreams. Each of us do swear to make the most of our individual voices, blending those voices together to make a song that will carry us over seen and unseen dangers. We call to our people, born and unborn, to bear witness to this our pledge, to bring harmony with our presence, to speak truth with our voices, to always do justice with our deeds, and to work steadfastly for right. We pledge to be models of what African womanhood should be: strong, relentless, caring, concerned, clear-minded, brilliant, powerful, and loving. Let us be guardians of each others pledge. Let us uphold our people, bring forth a new time, shape our own history, and work without pause until the very cosmos finds itself at end. Let our voices, now and forevermore be heard. H. D. Rose, 1993
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The Oni Award symbolizes the essence of all that is good in African People. The word ONI is taken from the Ife culture of Nigeria. It represents a spiritual force that protects the people. A recipient of the Oni Award has been identified as someone who protects, defends, and enhances the general well-being of African people. A recipient of the ONI is diligent, persistent, and noncompromising. We like to think of her as our unsung heroine. With the creation of the Oni Award, the International Black Womens Congress salutes those women in our communities who keep on working on behalf of African people. They are truly committed. Their vision is clear!
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1985 ONI Awards Margaret Walker Alexander, Ph.D. * Dame Nita Barrow Dorothy E. Brunson Estella Dubuisson Tandi Luthuli Gcabashe Alma Street Jenkins * Reatha Clark King, Ph.D. Wynona M. Lipman, Ph.D. Arike Logan, M.D. Queen Mother Moore * Lulu Mae Hill Nix, Ph.D. Rachel Bassette Noel, Ph.D. * Sister Alma Nomsa John * 1987 ONI Awards Anne T. Barnes Nannie Ellison Elizabeth Felton Rita Mack Mary R. McDuffie Catherine (Kay) A. McGill Nampeo D. R. McKenney Dessima M. Williams 1988 ONI Awards Claudia Baquet, M.D. Cheryl A. Boyce Evelyn Ford Crayton, Ph.D. Norma J. Goodwin, M.D. Gwendolyn Goldsby Grant, Ph.D. Mattie L. Humphrey, Esq. * Wista Jeanne Johnson Barbara Jean Justice, M.D. Frances Cress Welsing, M.D. Rev. Cecelia Williams-Bryant Zul-latifatu Zahiratu, RN 1989 ONI Awards Fredrica K. Gray Rashidah L. Hassan Marian Kramer Mary Lou Lollis * Betty Shabazz, Ph.D. * Rev. Imogene Bigham Stewart Nkenge Toure
1990 ONI Awards Delores P. Aldridge, Ph.D. Safiya Bandele Safiya Bukhari-Alston * Jacqueline Moore-Kerr Carrie Ponder Denise Gary Robinson Frankie White 1991 ONI Awards Sharon Brown Bailey, Ph.D. Joyce Smith Carter Jeanette L. Cascone, Ph.D. * Nsenga Warfield Coppock, Ph.D. * Subira Kifano, Ph.D. Rosa S. Langston Ella Gates Mahmoud, Ph.D. Ella S. McDonald Camille Yarbrough 1992 ONI Awards African Women Organization of Azania (AWO) Annie Devine * Mildred Barry Garvin * Endesha Ida Holland, Ph.D. * Utrice C. Leid Lillian Harkless Mobley Beatryce Nivens Margaret Latimore Blake Roach * Sonia Sanchez 1993 ONI Awards Diane L. Adams, M.D., MPH Vivian Verdell Gordon, Ph.D. * Sharlene J. Morgan * Andree Nicola-McLaughlin, Ed.D. Jewel I. Pookrum, M.D., Ph.D. La Francis Rodgers-Rose, Ph.D. Aneatha Dames Todd * Estelle Witherspoon * 1994 ONI Awards Rev. Lillian D. Anthony, Ph.D. Makini Niliwaambieni Project D.A.R.E. (Developing Effective AIDS Response) Rosalind Thigpen-Rodd Iyanla Vanzant PJ Viviansayles *
ANCESTORS
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1995 ONI Awards Melinda Contreras-Byrd, Psy.D. Honorable Mildred C. Crump Cornelia H. Moore Yvette Marion Myers, Ph.D. Diane Sutton * 1996 ONI Awards Lois A. Fernandez Rosemary Jackson Romona G. Smith Antonia A. Vann Corine Varn Wilson 1997 ONI Awards International Youth Organization (IYO) Francis Ann Mobley Sylvia Denise Sumpter 1998 ONI Awards Nana Korantemaa Ayeboafo Addie W. Brown, Ph.D. * Willa Hemmons, Ph.D., J.D. Linda James Myers, Ph.D. Delaine Priest 1999 ONI Awards Sharon Brown Nzinga Ratibisha Heru Marian Johnson-Thompson, Ph.D. Mawiyah Kambon, Ph.D. Cleo Parker Robinson Rev. Almeta Whitis 2000 ONI Awards Victoria Gray Adams * Brenda Hughes Andrews Michele DeLeaver Balamani, D.Min. Francine C. Childs, Ed.D., Th.D. Marilyn Hughes Gaston, M.D. LaDoris Payne-Bell Cynthia L. Rodgers 2001 ONI Awards Geri Blair Georgia M. Dunston, Ph.D. Karen Eubanks Jackson Mary Alice Saunders, M.Ed., MSN, CNS Ernestine Wilson, M.Ed. Jifunza Wright, M.D., MPH
2002 ONI Awards Diedre Badejo, Ph.D. Joanne M. Braxton, Ph.D. Dawn Breedon Evangelist Donna Hubbard Sandra Y. Lewis, Psy.D. Henrietta E. Turnquest, J.D. 2003 ONI Awards Janice E. Green Douglas, M.D. Catherine Lamb * Gayle K. Porter, Psy.D. Eva D. Smith, RN, Ph.D. Jennie C. Trotter, M.Ed. 2004 ONI Awards Dora Chambers Mattie J. Holloway, MSW Sheila Y. Oliver, MA Cynthia D. Pullen-Thompson, MSW Janet Lee Scott-Harris, RN, Ph.D. Yvonne Scruggs-Leftwich, Ph.D. 2005 ONI Awards Frances E. Ashe-Goins, RN, MPH Regina Marie Curry Shari Finnell Geraldine Nicholas Harvey Martha C. Mitchell, MSW, Ph.D. 2006 ONI Awards Murphy Browne Rita Burke Rt. Rev. Sylveta Hamilton-Gonzales, M.Div. Rosalind R. Jeffries, Ph.D. Linnie Kesselly Rosalind I. S. McLymont 2007 ONI Awards Andrea Cleaves, MSW Jennifer J. Gibbs-Phillips Bessie House, Ph.D. Janet Mitchell, M.D. Eleanor Renee Rodriguez, Ph.D. 2008 ONI Awards Amina Baraka Inez Barron, MA Dowoti Desir, MA Gloria Roach Thomas. MS, M.Div.
ANCESTORS
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2009 ONI Awards Queen Mother Dorothy Benton-Lewis Moonyene Jackson-Amis, Esq. Ruth Turner Perot, MAT Tracie L. Washington, Esq.
2010 ONI Awards Rev. Dr. Yvonne V. Delk Francesca Dillard-Moore, M.Ed., CSAS Patricia Kimmons Pettway, MPA, M.Div. Loretta J. Ross Rev. Malika Lee Whitney
The Oni Award symbolizes the essence of all that is good in African People. The word ONI is taken from the Ife culture of Nigeria. It represents a spiritual force that protects the people. This award is presented to those, Whose Life Exemplifies an Uncompromising Commitment to Uplifting the Lives of People of African Ancestry.
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ENCIRCLE AWARD
This award is named in honor of two men who embodied the spirit of the International Black Womens Congress. They were neither frightened nor intimidated by the power, work, and vision of women. This award is given to show our profound appreciation and great love for the brother who remains steadfast in their commitment to the goals and vision of IBWC. These brothers give unselfishly, clear the path, stand on the square, and guard the door while the women work the magic.
SERVICE AWARD
This award is given to the person who personifies the goals, hopes, and aspirations of the International Black Womens Congress. By being willing to work, to give of your time, your will, your effort, your soul, your very humanity to this cause, we recognize your work and wish to say from the bottom of our hearts that you are IBWC.
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SERVICE AWARD
JACQUALYN F. GREEN, MSW, Ph.D., the only child of Al and
Lucile Ferguson, grew up with examples of service. She saw her mother and father visit the sick, assist with youth programs, and serve on several boards. Dr. Greens service to others began at an early age when she read to a bedridden neighbor and has continued throughout her life. She has been active in several civic community organizations including the Girls Clubs, United Way, Coalition of 100 Black Women, National Association of Black Social Workers, and Family Services Association. She has adopted the House of Hope, a South African orphanage, which supports children who are HIV/AIDS positive or have lost parents to the virus. Dr. Green received her undergraduate degree from Fisk University and was the first graduate of the Social Work, Ph.D. program at Indiana University. She is the owner of Green Enterprizes, a counseling, consulting, and training firm. She is the author of two books, Spiritual Resilience and Racial Resilience. Dr. Green has traveled to Tanzania, Zanzibar, Ghana, Senegal, Cote de Voire, Mali, Gambia, South Africa and Egypt. She was recently inducted into the Consortium of Doctors, an organization that exists for the betterment of the African American community. Dr. Green and her husband became life members of the International Black Womens Congress immediately after joining the organization. She has made major presentations at IBWCs past five national conferences, made important suggestions for the website content, and was a key member of the 2011 conference planning committee.
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1996 Encircle Awards Useni Eugene Perkins James T. Rodgers * 1997 Encircle Awards Randy Weston 1998 Encircle Award Brian Williams 1999 Encircle Award John T. Bailey 2000 Encircle Award Nashid Fakhrid-Deen, J.D.
2001 Encircle Award Jonathan Wosu, D.V.M., Ph.D. 2002 Encircle Award Frank Hutchins * 2003 Encircle Award Steven Turner 2004 Encircle Award Larry Hamm 2005 Encircle Award Vop Osili
2006 Encircle Award David Ayres Errol Taylor 2007 Encircle Award Trevis Von Etheridge 2008 Encircle Award Segun Shabaka, Ph.D. 2009 Encircle Award Mark Anthony Morris 2010 Encircle Award Oliver Williams, MPH, Ph.D.
ANCESTORS
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1985 Service Awards Sharon Brown Bailey, Ph.D. Joyce Smith Carter * Sandra Chiles Barbara A. Jones Mildred Joseph Rosa S. Langston Rhashidah Elaine McNeil 1986 Service Awards Delores P. Aldridge, Ph.D. Eleanor Engram, Ph.D. Mary Louise Craft Jones Ella Gates Mahmoud 1987 Service Awards Elwood R. Clough, D.D. * Carmen M. Cornute, Ph.D. Ramona R. Hanna Janice Harris Jackson J. Sue Jewell, Ph.D. Valerie Jones James T. Rodgers, D.D. * 1988 Service Awards Glen and Avonne Arnold Cynthia Pullen Kim Gaddy 1989 Service Awards Della L. Cooper Kacy Duke Nicole Lettman Segun Shabaka 1990 Service Awards Valija C. Rose John Robert Smith * Barbara Wood
1991 Service Awards Hisani DuBose Sandra Y. Lewis, Psy.D. Gwen Hatcher * Cynthia L. Rodgers Sharon Suber 1992 Service Awards Carroll M. Rodgers, Jr. * Kathy Seck * 1993 Service Awards William T. Merritt Corine Varn Wilson 1994 Service Awards Regina S. Johnson Erma Lawson, Ph.D. 1995 Service Awards Olga Barnwell Starlett Jones * 1996 Service Awards Willa Hemmons, Ph.D., Esq. Mary Alice Saunders 1997 Service Awards LaVerne Paige Overton Estell Carolyn Jenkins Zakiyyah Zaimah 1999 Service Award Gladys Hayes-Owens 2000 Service Award Inez D. Ayres 2001 Service Award G. Regina Nixon, Ph.D.
2002 Service Award Safiya Bandele 2003 Service Award Eleanor D. Griffin 2004 Service Award Robin M. Arbubakrr 2005 Service Award Lettie Foley * Barbara A. Mebane 2006 Service Award Grace Mwawasi, M.Sc. 2007 Service Award Robena Holley-Magnum 2008 Service Award Henry D. Rose 2009 Service Award Chertonda M. Norman 2010 Service Award Joy King
ANCESTORS
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Barbara Dorsey Alyce Eason Charles Ellis Mamie Ellis Oscar Ellis Warren W. Evans Tom Feelings Margaret Freeman Sonny W. Gaddy, Sr. Mildred Barry Garvin Big Mama Cherry B. George Dr. Vivian Verdell Gordon Harden Graham Evelyn Davis Grant Sir Roland Hanna Lisa Harris Katie Harrison Gwen Aneesah Hatcher Denise Barnwell-Hawkins Gallie Hendricks Rosalie Hendricks Nzinga Ratibisha Heru Britton Hill Dr. Asa G. Hilliard, III Virginia Holcom LaTanya Atkinson Jasper Dr. Morris Jeff Sister Alma Nomsa John Alice Johnson Mel Johnson Mattie Julia Jones Paul Kelley Joan Langston Joseph LeCompte
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Dr. Betty Shabazz Earnest Shields James T. Smith John Robert Smith Oscar T. Smith James Spraggs Estelle Spraggs Maude Lilly Stewart John Stone Diane Sutton Ruth Swann Estella Taylor Kris Taylor WyTonya Thompson Elder Aneatha Dames Todd Viola Vann Clarence Vincent Jeanette Walker Dr. Ronald W. Walters Rebecca Walton Wendell Walton Annie Waters Carolyn Waters Viola Webb Ivory Webb Elder Margaret Inez Whitney Mae Newman-Wilkins Dr. Nudie Williams Polly Williams Dr. Amos Wilson Roslyn Angela Wilson Estelle Witherspoon Adell Simmons-Wright Edward J. Yates
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SISTERHOOD AFFIRMATION
We are Sisters bound by our African ancestry, and our commitment to each other, our people and by the Creator who brought us into being. Our sisterhood spans generations of women who shared a cup of sugar or flour, took turns sitting with a sick child, or held a Sisters hands in hard times. As reflections of each other, we recognize our Sisters experiences as our own. We share in our trials and tribulations, our joys and sorrows, and our triumphs. In keeping with our African tradition, we value the power of the spoken word. When speaking of each other, we choose our words carefully. With every word, deed or thought, we affirm and uplift each other. As we give of ourselves, we reap the benefits of Maat, the spiritual principle of reciprocity. In all things we honor our commitment to each other, resisting any and all forces which may seek to divide us.
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FRIDAY, September 23, 2011 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Registration Vendors Welcome and Conference Charge
Sharon R.B. Bailey, Ph.D., National President, International Black Womens Congress and Director of Policy and Research, Office of the Auditor, Denver, CO Ancestral Altar, Libations, Poems, Songs, and Dance Tendai Johnson, M.A., Vice Chancellor for Institutional Research, Fayetteville State University and the African Diaspora Ancestral Commemoration Institute, Fayetteville, NC
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Health Disparities: Erma J. Lawson, Ph.D., Visiting Professor, Department of Medical Humanities, Bioethics and Social Sciences, Medical Center of Galveston, Galveston, TX
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11:00 AM - 12:15 PM
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Domestic Violence: Bernadette Holmes, Ph.D., Professor, Criminal Justice Program, Norfolk State University, Norfolk, VA Sexual Assault: Selena T. Rodgers, Ph.D., LCSW-R, Assistant Professor, Department of Social Work, York College, Jamaica, NY Legal Issues: Willa M. Hemmons, Ph.D., J.D., Professor Emeritus, Department of Criminal Justice, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH
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Rhonda Wells-Wilbon, Ph.D., Chair, MSW Department, School of Social Work, Morgan State University, Baltimore, MD Marilyn Hughes Gaston, M.D. and Gayle K. Porter, Psy.D., Authors, Prime Time: The African American Womans Complete Guide to Midlife Health and Wellness, Washington, DC
3:00 PM - 3:15 PM
Break
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3:15 PM - 4:15 PM
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Mind, Journaling: Lorece V. Edwards, Dr.PH., Assistant Professor, Department of Behavioral Health Sciences, School of Community Health and Policy, Morgan State University, Baltimore, MD Body, Massage and Reiki: Rosetta Peterkin, MSW, LMT, Massages by Rosetta, Miami, FL Dance and Healing: Chertonda M. Norman, MSW, Program Counselor, International Black Womens Congress, Norfolk, VA
Chesapeake II
SATURDAY, September 24, 2011 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spiritual Circle Jazzercise Registration Vendors Boardroom A Camden View Chesapeake Foyer Chesapeake Foyer
Rosetta Peterkin, MSW, LMT, Massages by Rosetta, Miami, FL
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9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
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11:15 AM - 12:00 PM
Debriefing
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12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Chesapeake II
Presiding: Sharon R.B. Bailey, Ph.D., President, International Black Womens Congress, Denver, CO; and Willa M. Hemmons, Ph.D., J.D., Vice President, International Black Womens Congress, Cleveland, OH
2:00 PM - 2:30 PM
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2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
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Valethia Watkins-Beatty, Ph.D., Associate Professor, African American Studies, Howard University, Washington, DC Rev. Adara L. Walton, ND, Ph.D., Director, HeartBridge Wellness, LLC, Ellicott City, MD
Chair: Linnie Kesselly, Retired Senior Community Services Officer, United Nations, Norfolk, VA Healing Modalities Mind, Visualization: Nana Korantemaa Ayeboafo, Founder and Chief Creative Officer The Star Spirit International, Philadelphia, PA Body, Movement: Nana Malaya Rucker-Oparabea, Board Chair and Artistic Director, Nubian Theatre Dance and Music Company, Washington, DC Spirit, Prayer: Rosalind Jeffries, Ph.D., Director, New York School of Visual Arts, New York, NY
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SUNDAY, September 25, 2011 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM 8:30 AM - 1:00 PM 8:30 AM - 10:30 AM Spiritual Circle Jazzercise Registration Vendors Taking Our Rightful Place
Facilitator: Valija C. Rose, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Lifelong Education, Administration, and Policy, University of Georgia, Athens, GA Tahiya McCoy Nyahuma, Ph.D. Candidate, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana, West Africa and COO, HealthLink International, Philadelphia, PA
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Service Award
Jacqualyn F. Green, Ph.D., Therapist, Consultant, and Author, Green Enterprizes, Indianapolis, IN
1:15 PM - 1:30 PM
Closing Circle
Chesapeake II
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During this past year, the International Black Womens Congress has witnessed the passing of some great and mighty memberswomen who dedicated their lives to the work of African people. We will miss you; but we know your energy and spirit surrounds us.
Pyramid Productions & the International Black Womens Congress 2012 Trips:
February 2-14 Ethiopia, Tanzania & Zanzibar - $3,495 March 16-25 Senegal & Gambia - $3,295 August 16-26 Ghana - $3,295
Historical Sites, Unforgettable Experiences, Fabulous Accommodations, Safe ENVIRONMENT, & Great Prices Contact: Dr. Segun Shabaka shabaka@mindspring.com, Pyramidproductionsnyc.com or 718.398.1729
Nearly 40 years of experience in traveling the world African community
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Hampton Roads Chapter members at the 26th Annual Conference in Norfolk, Virginia.
We salute the International Black Womens Congress on its 27th Annual Conference. We are honored that you have joined us for another wonderful, spirit-filled experience.
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Dawn James
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* denotes ancestor
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In Loving Memory
Dr. Elwood R. Clough Gwen Aneesah Hatcher Dr. James T. Rodgers Dr. Jeanette Cascone Ernest M. Shields Audrey Ryan Lucille Allen Carroll M. Rodgers, Jr. Joyce Smith Carter Nzinga Ratibisha Heru
Your spirits continue to sustain us. We know you got our back.
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NANA KORANTEMAA AYEBOAFO is a medicine woman, senior priest and director of the Asona Aberade Shrine, one of the oldest Akan Shrines in America. For seven years Nana lived, studied, worked, graduated from and received ordination at the Nana Akonnedi Shrine, which is one of the oldest sanctums of spiritual and psychic prosperity located in Ghana. It was there that she learned the significance of protocol as it relates to ancient and contemporary civilization. That training provides her with the knowledge of ritual pouring of libation; traditional ceremonies and proper observances; effective application of herbs and medicines. Nana Korantemaa is the founder of Star Spirit International, Inc. a United Nations recognized non-government organization that supports the Larteh community of Ghana through health sanitation, medical supplies, HIV/AIDS training, and a school project educating elementary to high school age students. ORISADE I. AWODOLA, MA, is a cultural therapist, successful writer and publisher. After tracing eight parental and maternal lineages, and experiencing healing, she began to facilitate Ancestral Healing workshops and tours in various parts of the country and other parts of the world to motivate and empower others to embrace their lineages through ritual, family reunions and academia. Her publications include: Millennium Trails in Black History; Rhythms Journal, Ancestral Healing. She has published in the Antioch Oracle, The Denver Post Defender, The Chicago Sun Times, Urban Voices, and Voices of Africa. She is a member of the American Psychological Association, Association of Black Psychologists, African American Writers Association Seattle and National Association of Black Journalists. Ms. Awodola conducts research on cultural, mental health, and social issues. She is a certified cultural therapist. ATUM AZZAHIR is the president and executive director for the Cultural Wellness Center. Elder Atum is a teacher and a practitioner of African Thought and Spirituality. She received her D-Litt Kemii Doctor of Literature from the International Khepran Institute in 2007. This honor acknowledges Elder Atums work in building sustainable, cultural institutions in African communities. Atum received the Leadership in Neighborhoods Award in 1997. She has been awarded several community and foundation awards and in 2008 Blue Cross Blue Shield Foundation acknowledged Elder Atum for the Cultural Wellness Centers Peoples Theory of Sickness with their prestigious Leadership in Health Award and invested $15,000 in her work. SHARON R. B. BAILEY, Ph.D., is a graduate of Princeton University, with a major in anthropology. She completed the doctorate degree in public administration from the University of Colorado. She is co-founder of Joint Effort Youth Foundation and a past member of the Denver Board of Education. Her consulting areas include minorities in science and technology, public/private partnerships, the Black family, and community resources development. Dr. Bailey is currently the director of policy and research, Denver auditor office, City of Denver, Colorado. She is the national president of the International Black Women's Congress, an ONI Award recipient, and life member. META COMMERSE, MFA, is a native Chicagoan and a community organizer and activist. She is founding director of VICTORS! Life-- healing program for women. Meta serves on the board of directors, Asheville YWCA, and was artist in residence: Prairie Center for the Arts, Peoria, Illinois. She is a member, American Massage Therapy Association and the National Commission on Grievance. Meta is an adjunct professor of History and English at Haywood Community College in Clyde, North Carolina. She is a graduate of Goddard College where she earned a B.A. degree in health arts and sciences, a masters of arts degree in U.S. History, and a masters of fine arts in creative writing. She has authored five books and one play, all on the subject of healing wounds. She practices holistic health in Asheville focusing on story medicine for women. Meta believes in the people's power to the transform systems of oppression. SHARON DOGGETT, MBA, is a certified aerobics instructor and the health and wellness coordinator at bank Street memorial Baptist Church (BSMBC) in Norfolk, Virginia. In this capacity she is responsible for offering aerobics, yoga, line dancing and information to promote a whole and healthy lifestyle to males and females of all ages. The mission of this aerobics ministry is to improve physical and mental health wile growing spiritually to provide better service to Gods kingdom. Sharon has taught aerobics and line dancing at various venues including the national Naval officers Association conference and Langley Air Force Base. She is a retired U.S. Coast Guard retired reservist and resides in Norfolk.
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LORECE V. EDWARDS, Ph.D., is a native Baltimorean. She is the director of community practice and outreach and assistant professor at the Morgan State University School of Community Health and Policy. She has worked as a project director and qualitative researcher for the Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health. At Johns Hopkins she was responsible for overseeing HIV/AIDS and substance abuse research projects designed to ameliorate adverse health conditions among marginalized populations. Dr. Edwards current research interest includes: health promotion/disease prevention, womens health, HIV/AIDS and community-based participatory research. She is especially concerned about the impact of HIV/AIDS in the African American community. Dr. Edwards work on HIV/AIDS was presented at the 2004 International Qualitative Health Research Conference in Banff, Canada and the XV International AIDS Conference 2004 in Bangkok, Thailand. JAMELA FRANKLIN, M.Ed., MA, is an accomplished holistic psychotherapist, certified aromatherapist, certified reiki master, metaphysician, reflexologist, energy medicine practitioner, and author. Ms. Franklin brings a wealth of experience and training to her current private practice in holistic health. Having completed her undergraduate education at Cornell University, she pursued a masters degree in educational administration at Harvard University and a masters degree in counseling psychology at Lesley University. She is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in holistic life coaching at the University of Sedona. Ms. Franklins treatments, workshops, and classes have been described as exceptional, compelling, transformative, and inspirational. Her current practice in Atlanta, Georgia, combines her traditional educational background with her holistic training. MARILYN HUGHES GASTON, M.D., has spent her professional career dedicated to improving the health of poor and minority families in our nation and abroad. She is the first African American woman to direct a Public Health Service Bureau and only the second African American woman to achieve the position of assistant surgeon general and rank of rear admiral in the US Public Health Service. Her awards are numerous, and she is a member of the prestigious Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences. Dr. Gaston is the co-author of Prime Time: The African American Woman's Complete Guide to Midlife Health and Wellness and co-director of The Gaston and Porter Health Improvement Center. Her dream for this nation is 100% access to quality care and zero disparities in health outcomes. SONYA HUNT GRAY, MPH, is a graduate of the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, with a degree in chemistry. She also completed two years of medical school at the University of Arkansas. Sonya has dedicated her professional life to public health, particularly in the area of combating the ravages of HIV/AIDS in the lives of communities of color. Her commitment spans 23 years of leadership and stewardship on the state, local and international levels, with 20 of those years within the United States Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). She is chief of the technical assistance branch, Division of Training and Technical Assistance, HIV/AIDS Bureau, Health Resources and Services Administration. In this capacity Ms. Gray is responsible for all training and technical assistance for Ryan White Program grantees. Ms. Gray received the Woman of the Year Award from Zonta International in 2005 and the Administrators Award for Excellence from the Health Resources and Services Administrations Global HIV/AIDS Program. JACQUALYN F. GREEN, Ph.D., is the owner of Green Enterprizes, counseling, consulting and training firm in Indianapolis, Indiana. The company addresses issues such as diversity, cross-cultural communication, and dealing with change. She recently developed a new branch of Green Enterprizes, the Diversity Integrity Institute, which provides diversity seminars and materials for corporations and agencies. As a therapist, she has been featured regularly on Relationship Thursday with local radio station WTLC. Dr. Green has authored a book, Spiritual Resilience, which highlights the challenges of African Americans and provides strategies for gaining additional spiritual strength. A new publication, The Spiritual Resilience Workbook was released for debut at the International Black Womens Congress national conference in 2007. WILLA M. HEMMONS, Ph.D., J.D., is professor emeritus, Criminal Justice Department, Cleveland State University. She has served in the department for more than 25 years. Dr. Hemmons is the author of various scholarly papers, including the first report ever published on the State of the Black Cleveland population. She published The Political Socialization of Black Women and is currently working on a volume for the International Black Womens Congress, Black Women and Politics in the 21st Century. Dr. Hemmons is past president of the Association of Social and Behavioral Scientists, vice president of the International Black Womens Congress, a life member and Oni Award recipient. She practices criminal law in Cleveland, and is the city manager of East Cleveland, Ohio.
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BERNADETTE J. HOLMES, Ph.D., is professor of sociology and director of the criminal justice program at Norfolk State University. Dr. Holmes earned a B.A. in sociology from Norfolk State University and the M.A. and Ph.D. in sociology from The Ohio State University. Her areas of specialization are in social psychology, gender, and criminology. She has conducted research on alternative family structures among black families and determinants of satisfaction and subjective well-being for women. Her current research focuses on violence against African American women. Dr. Holmes has served as a consultant for legal proceedings in the areas of sexual assault and sexual harassment. She is a member of the American Sociological Association, Association of Black Sociologists, Southern Sociological Society, International Black Womens Congress and the Virginia Social Science Association. She is the recipient of a Fulbright/Hays Fellowship to Morocco. Dr. Holmes is married and is the mother of one daughter. REV. IVY HYLTON, MSW, LICSW, is an internationally known speaker, soprano concert vocalist, sound healer and licensed holistic psychotherapist. She is on the cutting edge of a new paradigm for psychological, physiological and emotional healing, with a breakthrough concept in the use of Sound Vibronics to heal, teach, inspire and transform. Rev. Ivy is founder and CEO of Serenity Healing Arts Wellness Education and Holistic Services. She is a contributing clinical advisor in the Small Business Innovative Research Grant at the National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health. She is the author of three books, producer and artist of six CDs, all dedicated to meditation, inner peace, emotional balance, rest and relaxation. Rev. Ivy is a certified reflexologist, hypnotherapist, aroma therapist, rieki master, and spiritual healer. ROSALIND JEFFRIES, Ph.D., art historian, museum curator, and author, is a resident of Teaneck, New Jersey. Since her first trip to Africa in 1960 to Nigeria, and working in the Ivory Coast from 1965 to 1966, she has been instrumental in developing cultural heritage to Africa. Dr. Jeffries has taught in colleges and universities in California, New York, and New Jersey. She was employed full-time at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City and the Afro-American Cultural and Historical Museum in Jersey City, New Jersey. Currently she is curriculum developer for the Adelaide Sanford Charter School in Newark, New Jersey, faculty member of the School of the Visual Arts in New York City, and serves on the board of directors of the National Conference on Artists and a member of the art commission for the Association for the Study of Classical African Civilizations (ASCAC). TENDAI PAULA JOHNSON, MA, is currently serving as associate vice chancellor for Institutional Research, Testing, and Title III grant programs at Fayetteville State University in North Carolina. Former director of Institutional Research at Coppin State University and adjunct professor in the history department at Morgan State University, she is a graduate of Southern Illinois University and the University of Minnesota. Her masters degree in The History of African People prepared her for the rigors of professional positions in both public and private sectors. She has written and managed international grants and activities and provided consulting services to international businesses, universities, and organizations. An Awo of Osun, Yoruba tradition, Tendai is a founding member of the Julius K. Nyerere Education Institute in New Jersey, and the African Diaspora Ancestral Commemoration Institute (ADACI), Lagos, Nigeria. LINNIE KESSELLY, MA, is a retired United Nations senior community services officer. She lived in Liberia for more than thirty years, serving as Liberia director general of civil service for 12 years. Ms. Kesselly was national president of the Liberian Cancer Society, the Liberian National Red Cross, and the executive council of the International Federation of the Red Cross. Most recently she was United Nations high commissioner for refugees senior community services officer in Kampala, Uganda. Ms. Kessellys work in international community development has taken her throughout the world, providing extensive education and counseling. She is the author of several scholarly articles and publications including a university textbook. Ms. Kesselly holds a masters degree in social service administration, is a life member of the International Black Womens Congress, and an Oni Award recipient. KWELISMITH, MA, is a performance artist, jazz vocalist, and music educator. She earned a bachelors degree in music education at the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music and a masters degree in counseling psychology at Trinity University. In her interdisciplinary work, Kweli examines the psychosocial impact of American culture on African Americans and their music. She is the author of Slavesong the Art of Singing and Secret Meeting: Kwanzaa Songs and City Sounds. In 2005, Kwelismith was selected as Washingtons Hometown Hero by WETA Public Television and in 1991, she received the Mayors Art Award for Outstanding Emerging Artist. She has performed at the Kennedy Center, the Smithsonian Anacostia Museum, The Kitchen in New York City, the Black Arts Festival in Atlanta, and The Painted Bride in Philadelphia. She is a member of the International Black Womens Congress.
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ERMA J. LAWSON, BSN, Ph.D., received her BSN from Howard University and Ph.D. from the University of Kentucky in medical sociology. Dr. Lawson completed a post-doctorate at the Harvard School of Public Health. She is a visiting professor, department of medical humanities, bioethics and social sciences, Medical Center of Galveston, Galveston, Texas. Previously she was an associate professor, department of sociology, at University of Texas at Denton and an assistant research professor in the department of behavioral science at the University of Kentucky, Lexington. Dr. Lawson has been actively involved in research on stress, violence, and heart disease. In addition to her research interests, she served as assistant director of a state mental hospital and has held various clinical nursing positions. She is a member of the International Black Women's Congress and heads the organization's health concerns. Currently she is completing a book on the experiences of minority heart transplant recipients. MARIAN ARTIS MARSEILLE, BSN, has been singing all her life. Named after the famous singer Marian Anderson, as an infant her father told her your name is Marian and you better sing. Her first solo was at the age of two. She is a graduate of Morgan State University and received the bachelors of nursing from Columbia University School of Nursing. She served as assistant director of nursing, Levindale Hebrew Geriatric Center; clinical educator, Deaton Nursing Home; and nursing instructor, Woodstock Job Corps Center. Marian studied at the Peabody Music Institute in Baltimore. She sang with Morgan State University Choir, Morgan Chorale, Handel Choir, Handel Chamber Ensemble and W.W. Payne Chorale Choir. Marian has performed before Lena Horne, Ethel Waters, W. C. Handy and H. L. Burleigh. She is an ordained minister and the associate pastor of Morning Star Baptist Church in Catonsville, Maryland. SALIMA SILER MARRIOTT, DSW, is the principal social worker for the SS Marriott Group. Until February 2010 she served as deputy mayor for community and human development in the administration of Sheila Dixon, Mayor of Baltimore City. Before joining the Dixon administration, Dr. Marriott was a member of Maryland General Assembly for 16 years, serving on the Ways and Means Committee and chairing the Joint Committee on Children, Youth, and Families. She was a member of the Morgan State University faculty for 24 years, chairing the Department of Mental Health and Human Services for six years. Nationally, Dr. Marriott chaired the National Black Women's Health Project, served as secretary of the National Rainbow Coalition, and regional chair of the National Black Caucus of State. LINDA JAMES MYERS, Ph.D., is one of the leading Afrocentric scholars in the country. Known primarily for her work in the development of optimal theory and Afrocentric models for understanding human behavior, she has published numerous articles and two books. Dr. Myers has lectured nationally and internationally and received wide acclaim for her provocative and motivating insights. She has written extensively on spiritual growth that comes from an awareness of our ancestral strengths. She is a professor of African American Studies and Psychology at Ohio State University. Dr. Myers is a past president of the Association of Black Psychologists. She is an ONI Award Recipient and member of IBWC. CARA MICHELE NETHER, LAc., MAc, NADA RT, is a licensed acupuncturist, body worker, and functional nutrition counselor and owner of Women in Wellness. Her Motto is Its not until we feel better that we can do better. Just like in the winter sport of curling, Cara Michele sees her job as the sweeper, smoothing down the bumps ahead so her clients can walk a smoother road. She is a published author in Conscious Choices, 10 Tips for Wellness, The Perfect Office, the Weekly Awareness Worksheet and is expecting her latest book in 2012. Cara Michele has written articles for OPN magazine, Baltimore Examiner, Gay Life magazine as well as Women in Wellnesss newsletter. She has been requested to speak during events like Medix May 2011 Commencement Address, She Matters Conference, 2011 International Black Womens Conference, NWPP, Father Martins Conference on Chemical Addition, Womens Expo, and WJZs ON Time with Kai Jackson. PATRICIA NEWTON, M.D., MPH, is president and medical director of Newton and Associates. She is board certified in psychiatry and neurology. Her practice concentration is in the areas of anxiety disorders (post traumatic stress disorder, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder and social phobia). Dr. Newton received her under graduate degree in biology from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, a masters in public health from the Johns Hopkins University and the medical degree from Washington University School of Medicine. Dr. Newton has taught at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and was chairperson of the Department of Psychiatry at the former Provident Hospital in Baltimore. She develops and implements international health related conferences and tours for physicians as well as other health care professionals. Dr. Newton is president of the Black Psychiatrists of America and is an enstooled female king and queen mother in the Ashanti region of Ghana.
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CHERTONDA M. NORMAN, MSW, received both the bachelors and masters degrees in social work from Norfolk State University. She serves as a field instructor for both undergraduate and graduate social work students. She is employed as a program coordinator and counselor for the International Black Womens Congress. Chertonda knows that it is her divine purpose to encourage individuals in order for them to reach their destiny in life. She diligently does just that by sharing herself as a community change agent and ordained minister. Chertonda gives messages of hope and self love through various workshops and any other platform that the spirit presents. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., and is the youngest female member of the historic Tidewater Metro Baptist Ministers Conference. TAHIYA MCCOY NYAHUMA, MA, has worked in the field of international economic development for over 20 years, traveling throughout Africa, Europe, Asia, the Caribbean, and North America. In this capacity Tahiya worked with setting up training centers, fundraising, conducting feasibility studies, monitoring and evaluating project development, proposal writing, and negotiating operations agreements. Tahiya has a masters degree in international relations and comparative politics from Binghamton University. She taught International Relations and Political Science at Richmond University in London, England. She is completing her Ph.D. at the University of Ghana, West Africa. The title of her dissertation is Engendering National Public Policy through Global Governance: An assessment of Ghanas Domestic Violence Legislation as a Trans Sovereign Transnational Issue. ROSETTA PETERKIN, MSW, LMT, earned a masters in social work from Adelphi University and is a licensed massage therapist. Rosetta was a director of professional development before she retired after 32 years of service to the City of New York. She also taught social work practice at York College, Fordham University and Barry College. Rosetta has offered specialized, individual, group, and family counseling sessions and engaged in crisis intervention in an interdisciplinary setting. She has provided educational and professional guidance to students. Rosetta has presented various workshops, including stress management, at a local, national, and international level. She is a member of the National Association of Black Social Workers, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, A Better Way, and the Drug Treatment Center. PATRICIA KIMMONS PETTWAY, MPA, M.Div., was born in Mobile, Alabama. She attended Presbyterians Mission Schools, Camden Academy. Patricia received her undergraduate degree from St. Peters College; the masters of public administration from Rutgers University and the masters of divinity from Johnson C. Smith at the Interdenominational Theology Center in Atlanta, Georgia. She has been a program director for the City of Plainfield, New Jersey; and Alabama Cares/Alzheimers coordinator. She is presently the director of the housing program at Samaritan Counseling Center, First Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in Atlanta; assistant minister at Rice Memorial Presbyterian Church, Pat has been married for 40 years to her high school sweetheart, Rev. Charley J. Pettway. She is the mother of two and grandmother of four. GAYLE K. PORTER, Psy.D., has spent her professional life providing a variety of services to African-American women, children and families. She is a licensed clinical psychologist. She has served as a principal research analyst and a senior mental health advisor for the American Institutes of Research. Until May 2000, Dr. Porter was the director of the School Based Program of Johns Hopkins University Hospital. She was on the faculty of Johns Hopkins' child and adolescent psychiatry department and Howard University. Dr. Porter has given numerous presentations on topics related to children's mental health, especially as it relates to poor and minority children. She is the co-author of Prime Time: The African American Woman's Complete Guide to Midlife Health and Wellness and co-director of The Gaston and Porter Health Improvement Center. ELAINE HAROLD ROBINSON, MAT, received the master of art in teaching mathematics and bachelor of science in computer science and mathematics. She has taught mathematics in Teaneck, New Jersey for over 20 years. During that time she has been a long standing member of IBWC. She is past vice president of Jack and Jill of America Inc., Bergen-Passaic Chapter. She is the owner/operator and curriculum developer of Compukids, an educational computer assisted learning company. Elaine was nominated for the Essence Woman of the Year Award for her tireless work as an educator. She holds a New Jersey Supervisor Certification and is a member of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, New Jersey Education Association, and Teaneck Teacher Education Association. Elaine is currently authoring a book of mathematics scaffolding resources and is the creator of the Geo-Meter Graph Reader.
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LA FRANCIS RODGERS-ROSE, Ph.D., is a clinical sociologist, professor, consultant, and author. She taught at various colleges and universities for more than 30 years, with 15 of those years in African American studies at Princeton University. Dr. Rodgers-Rose has taught at Rutgers University, Case Western Reserve University, and Drew University. She is past president of the Association of Black Sociologists, the Association of Social and Behavioral Scientists, a past Fulbright Fellow to Africa, and a past Distinguished Sociology Scholar. She was honored by the National Organization of Black Elected Legislative Women with their highest award, the Noble/Women International Leadership Award. She was an Essence Magazine Woman of the Month and received the founders award from the Association of Black Sociologists. Dr. Rodgers-Rose is founder, spiritual leader and CEO of the International Black Women's Congress and is blessed to be a eight year heart transplant recipient. RAZAN THOMAS RODGERS, MHS, is pursuing a doctorate of education from Fieldings Graduate University. She received the MHS degree from Lincoln University. Her dissertation is entitled Home Schooling: A Parents Autho-Ethnographical Account. She is a Pennsylvania Commonwealth retired social worker and income maintenance caseworker. Razan is a student of the Bible, blessed with a social mantel; and prays to bless and exalt those she encounters through words of life and a clear example of Christs walk. As an author Razan has written four Christ centered devotionals: From the Wilderness, to the Promise Land, to the Mountain Top: A Conversation with God; Dark and Hot a Growing Faith; Life Under the Blood; and On the Birthing Bed: Moving into your Calling. Razan resides in Philadelphia, where she home schooled both of her children at different grades from 1994-2010. Razan gives leadership to her churchs home schooling ministry. SELENA T. RODGERS, Ph.D., LCSW-R, is an assistant professor of social work and director of social work field education at York College of The City University of New York (CUNY), School of Health and Behavioral Sciences. She teaches research and practice courses. Her primary areas of research are posttraumatic growth and socio-cultural factors in multi-cultural and multiethnic groups who experience forced migration, child sexual abuse, and secondary trauma. Dr. Rodgers is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-R) who has over 17 years of experience in the field of social work. Her peer-reviewed book chapters are guides aimed at helping professionals wishing to understand the link between Afro-centric perspectives, race and gender oppressions and intimate partner violence. She earned her Ph.D. in social work from Adelphi University in 2008 and her masters degree in social work from Syracuse University. She was named a National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Emerging Leader Honoree, New York City Chapter and a former Hartman Child & Family Scholar. VALIJA C. ROSE, Ph.D., is assistant professor, Department of Lifelong Education, Administration and Policy at the University of Georgia. Previously she was a post doctoral fellow at the Johns Hopkins University, Center for Talented Youth. She completed her doctorate at The College of William and Mary in educational policy, planning, and leadership; and her masters in economics at the University of Michigan. Her research interests are urban school leadership and reform, culturally competent leadership, and access and equity in advanced coursework and selective programs. Dr. Rose taught for 11 years at the high school level including courses in advanced placement calculus and statistics. She is a former Booker T. Washington High School Teacher of the Year and the 2004-2005 Norfolk Public Schools High School Teacher of the Year. Dr. Rose served as the fiscal manager of the International Black Womens Congress for more than 10 years, overseeing $500,000 in annual program budgets. NANA MALAYA RUCKER-OPARABEA, is an actress, dancer, playwright, storyteller, yoga instructor, ordained minister, and spiritual life coach. She is board chair and artistic director for the Nubian Theatre Dance and Music Company and is the board chair of the DC Black Theatre Festival. Her versatility and expertise in the arts has lead to many diverse opportunities. Nana has performed at the: Lincoln Center; Kennedy Center; Anacostia Museum, Historic Lincoln Theatre; Harlem National Black Theatre and Smithsonian Institute; Nana Malaya was declared The Dancing Diplomat having performed around the world: Scotland, Japan, Hawaii, Ghana, Barbados, Jamaica, and many more. She has had the honor of being selected to perform for the King of Ghana, President Bill Clinton, Katherine Dunham, Alvin Ailey, and Rosa Parks. Nana Malaya firmly believes in the healing power of dance, having danced through her own healing when her youngest son was slain. She is the mother of the renowned actor Lamman Rucker. JENNIE C. TROTTER, M.Ed., is a child advocate, licensed counselor, educator, and preventionist. She obtained her bachelors degree from City College in New York, later renamed Harlem University by the Black Student Movement. Jennie earned her master's degree from Bank Street College of Education in New York. Jennie C. Trotter is the founder and executive director of the Wholistic Stress Control Institute, Inc. (WSCI), a 27-year award-winning African American non-profit community based organization which provides stress education services and a variety of community programs. She is a certified Level One Spring Forest Qi-Gong Instructor and serves on the Advisory Council for the National Wellness Institute. Her motto in life is, "Blessed are those that can give without remembering and take without forgetting." Jennie is a life member of the International Black Womens Congress and an ONI Award Recipient.
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BARBARA C. WALLACE, Ph.D., is a New York State licensed psychologist and a tenured professor in the Department of Health Education at Teachers College, Columbia University. She is the director of the Research Group on disparities in Health at Teachers College. She is the author of the acclaimed book, Making Mandated Addiction Treatment Work; and is the editor of the volume, Toward Equity in Health: A New Global Approach to Health Disparities; and Understanding and Dealing with Violence: A Multicultural Approach. She has expertise in the treatment of sexual abuse, physical abuse, and domestic violence. Her research interests are in global leadership training for health education; diversity training for multicultural competence; health disparities research; and invisible, covert, and visible overt violence. Wallace is a graduate of Princeton University and received her doctorate in clinical psychology from the City University of New York. Her post-doctoral training was at the Narcotic and Drug Research, Inc. Dr. Wallace was enstooled Nana Ohemaa Agyiriwa, II, Queen Mother of the Asona and Aberade Clan Families of the United States and Larteh-Kubease, Akuapem, Ghana, Africa. REV. LAKEESHA WALROND, Ph.D., received a B.A. degree in psychology and early childhood development from Spelman College, a masters degree in education, and the Ph.D. in special education and literacy from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She worked in the public school system in North Carolina for 11 years as a teacher, a coordinator for special education programs in the district office, an assistant principal, and a principal. Rev. Walrond answered her call into the ministry in December of 1995. She served as an associate minister at Zion Temple Church in North Carolina for eight years. Rev. Walrond currently serves as the executive pastor at the First Corinthian Baptist Church in Harlem, New York where her husband, Michael A. Walrond, Jr., is the senior pastor. As executive pastor, she has been able to focus on the administrative aspects of ministry in an urban setting. Dr. Walrond is married to her soul mate; they are the proud parents of two beautiful children. REV. ADARA L. WALTON, N.D., Ph.D., is an ordained minister; assistant pastor of Greater Grace Unlimited Temple (MD); and bio-Energy kinesiologist, certified Quantum-Touch instructor, certified attractor field technique practitioner, reiki master/Amanohuna teacher and shaman. She has studied and worked with the human energy fields for the past 23 years using aromatherapy, homeopathy, color, sound, and light in her holistic healing practice called HeartBridge Wellness, L.L.C. Educating the client in self-healing is the foundation of her practice as the body unlocks its truth. Rev. Dr. Walton is author of the book, Every Bodys Truth: Muscle Testing for the Masses. Her energy practice, open to adults and children, is located in Ellicott City, Maryland. VALETHIA WATKINS-BEATTY, Ph.D., J.D., received her undergraduate degree in political science from The University of Michigan and a Juris Doctor degree from The Ohio State College of Law in 1990. She went on to receive a Ph.D. from Temple University in African American Studies. Her research areas include: Black womens intellectual history, the history of feminism, and developing new conceptual models for interpreting African women in our history. Dr. Watkins Beatty has taught at Bowie State University, served as chair of African American Studies at Olive-Harvey College in Chicago, and is now a professor in the African American Studies Department at Howard University. She is a member of the Association of the Study of Classical African Civilizations. RHONDA WELLS-WILBON, LCSW, MSW, Ph.D., is a licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years of professional experience. She is an associate professor and chair of the MSW program in the School of Social Work, at Morgan State University where she has taught in the BSW, MSW and Ph.D. programs. Dr. Wells-Wilbon is a consultant to the DC Rape Crisis Center, working with adult survivors of rape and child sexual abuse on the Board of Directors for The House of Ruth, the largest domestic violence program in the State of Maryland. Her practice and research interests include popular youth culture, spirituality, African centered healing and practice methods, and sexual abuse prevention. She has written in the areas of physical discipline, healing from sexual abuse, and care giving from an African centered womanist perspective. ZAKIYYAH ZAIMAH, MALS, has more than a decade of experience in cultural affairs, event management, budget administration, public relations, and production. She has served as the cultural affairs administrator for the City of East Orange, New Jersey and is formerly the director of development at the East Orange Hospital. Zakiyyah has taught English and American studies at Essex Catholic High School, served as a freelance copywriter, and director of an African centered school, the New Ark School. Ms. Zaimah is a graduate of St. Peters College and earned her masters degree in womens studies from Rutgers University. She has been a member of the International Black Womens Congress for more than 20 years, serving in various positions at the local, national, and international levels.
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Notes
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Board of Directors
La Francis Rodgers-Rose, Ph.D. Founder and President Emeritus Sharon Brown Bailey, Ph.D. President Willa M. Hemmons, Ph.D., Esq. Vice President, Public Realtions Corine Varn Wilson Vice President, Membership Sharon A. Brown Vice President International Development Erma J. Lawson, RN, Ph.D. Health Sandra Y. Lewis, Psy.D. Research and Training Valija C. Rose, Ph.D. Publications Zakiyyah Zaimah Speakers Bureau Carla F. Kithcart, Esq. Consul Delores P. Aldridge, Ph.D. Chair, Board of Directors Cynthia D. Pullen-Thompsn, MSW Secretary Peggy A. Brown, MSW Treasurer Mary Ainooson, Ghana, W. Africa Inez Perry Ayres, Toronto, Canada Safiya Bandele, New York Olga Barnwell-Gift, New Jersey Cheryl Carmichael-West, Maryland Nene M. Diallo, M.D., Guinea, West Africa Nashid Fakhrid-Deen, Esq., Kentucky Aaron D. Gresson, III, Ph.D., Maryland LaVerne Gyant, Ph.D., Illinois Majorie Aldridge Holder, Barbados Robena Holley-Mangum, Virginia Subira A. Kifano, Ph.D., Minnesota Sally Malone-Hawkins, Ph.D., Texas Uzo Osili, Indiana Gayle K. Porter, Psy.D., Maryland Cynthia L. Rodgers, Virginia Brian Williams, Virginia Ernestine Wilson, Georgia Barbara A. Wood, RN, Ohio
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La Francis Rodgers-Rose Sharon R. B. Bailey, Jennifer Gibbs-Phillips, Jacqualyn F. Green, Erma J. Lawson, Linda James Myers, Rosetta Peterkin, Valija C. Rose, Zakiyyah Zaimah
Valija C. Rose, Brian Williams Barbara Aarons, Linnie Kesselly, Chertonda Norman, Elaine Harold Robinson, Razan T. Rodgers
Greeters
Kaylah Graphics
Graphics
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