MEET OUR SPEAKERS
MEET OUR SPEAKERS
Keynote Speaker – Joseph Walker, III, D. MIN
Joseph Walker, III, D. MIN
Bishop Joseph Warren Walker, III, is the senior leader of the historic Mt. Zion Baptist Church of Nashville, Tennessee where he celebrates his 30th year as pastor this calendar year. He was born in Shreveport, Louisiana to Deacon Joseph and the late
Mrs. Rosa Walker.
Bishop Walker received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Southern University in Baton Rouge Louisiana; a Master of Divinity degree from Vanderbilt University and a Doctor of Ministry degree from Princeton Theological Seminary. He holds three honorary Doctorates from Meharry Medical College, Southern University, Kentucky State University, respectively.
Dr. Walker currently serves on the Board of Directors for Citizens Savings Bank & Trust and the Greater Nashville Chapter of the United Negro College Fund (UNCF). In 2020, Dr. Walker was appointed by Dr. Michael Lomax to serve as a member of the UNCF President’s National Faith and Education Initiative Advisory Council.
In October 2016, he was appointed by former TN Governor Bill Haslam to serve as Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the Tennessee State University, where he was unanimously re-elected in 2019. He is also a member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity and the Kappa Kappa Psi Band Fraternity.
Bishop Walker currently serves as the International Presiding Bishop of the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship. In July 2013, he was chosen to succeed the founding International Presiding Bishop Paul S. Morton, Sr. In 1992, at the age of 24, Bishop Walker began his pastorate at Mt. Zion with 175
members. Presently, the ministry has grown to over 30,000 and continues to grow at a phenomenal rate of over 1,000 souls per year. Under his leadership, Mt. Zion has expanded beyond its original location on historic Jefferson Street to multiple weekly services in three physical locations, as well as Mt. Zion’s virtual church location – Mt. Zion Anywhere – in addition to a weekly television broadcast on that reaches 15 million viewers worldwide.
A prolific writer, Dr. Walker is a best-selling author of thirteen books. His latest book, Leadership and Loneliness outlines ways to understand, manage and find opportunities in the moments of loneliness associated with leadership. He and his wife, Dr. Stephaine, co-authored a book together entitled, Becoming a Couple of Destiny.His inspirational messages make him a sought-after university commencement speaker and orator in diverse spaces. Bishop Walker is a regular guest on the Rickey Smiley Radio Show as well as a host of other nationally syndicated radio shows that reach millions across the United States. He also has been a guest on CNN, Politics Nation with Al Sharpton on MSNBC, The CBS Morning News, CBN, the 700 Club, Sister Circle, The Roland Martin Show and authors a quarterly Op-Ed in the Tennessee Tribune, entitled, Reset.
He is married to the former Dr. Stephaine M. Hale, a health & beauty entrepreneur who recently retired as an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics and Neonatology at Vanderbilt University. Both agree that their most joyous accomplishment to date has been the birth of their daughter, Jovanni Willow, and their son, Joseph Warren Walker, IV.
“Who Run It?!” – School Leader Panel
Jessica Wedgeworth
I am a native of Birmingham, Alabama and the second child of Clarence and Sarah Jones. In my free time, I enjoy spending quality time with family and friends, reading, listening to various genres of music, and traveling. My two daughters, Brianna and Jewel, are the center my universe.
I am a proud product of Birmingham City Schools. During my early years, I attended North Birmingham Elementary School and Gibson Elementary School. I received my secondary education at Hayes Middle School and Woodlawn High School where I embraced the love of competing academically, community service, writing, and inquiry. My interest in volunteerism, children, and a love for learning led me to choose a service career. Naturally, I decided to attend the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) and pursued degrees in Secondary Education and Instructional Leadership.
My teaching career started at Putnam Middle School in 2003. Afterwards, I became John Herbert Phillips Academy’s first eighth grade social studies teacher. Before becoming the first principal of BCS Virtual Academy of Learning, I was the International Baccalaureate (IB) Coordinator for J.H. Phillips Academy and Ramsay IB High School.
As an educator, I believe in student-centered learning and teaching that allows both scholar and teacher to reflect upon the learning journey. Believing that all students can learn, I embrace the concept of an individualized learning approach that creates a unique educational pathway for each scholar. Most importantly, I believe all children have a right to a quality education that will prepare them to be successful in college and/or career.
Meredith Davis
Dr. Meredith Davis is a native of Bessemer, AL. She is married to Attorney Peter Davis and the mother of three adult daughters, Ashley, Dania, and Brea. She is a 1989 graduate of McAdory High School. After graduating from high school, Dr. Davis wasn’t sure what path in life she wanted to take, so she joined the U. S. Navy where she served our country proudly for 8 years. After being Honorably Discharged from the U.S. Navy, she started her journey to becoming an educator. Mrs. Davis is a graduate of the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Indiana State University, and Liberty University in Virginia. She is a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.
Her education career has been broad and has enabled her to grow into a well-rounded educator. She has experience in education as a Secondary English teacher; Library Media Specialist; Dean of Students; Special Education Coordinator; Ninth Grade Academy Academic Director, Assistant Principal Principal, and most recently named Interim Executive Director of Empower Community Schools of Alabama. Dr. Davis has been able to share her love of educating young people in South Carolina; Illinois; Washington, DC; Tennessee; and finally back home to Alabama. Dr. Davis’ gift to educate children offered her the opportunity to work with students in grades K-12 in both public and charter schools.
She believes that educating children is a partnership between the school, the parents, the students, and the community. Educating our young people must become a community effort. Her voice can always be heard informing others that we are all in this together to help our young people succeed. Dr. Davis knows that a pivotal part of educating young people is the ability to build relationships with all stakeholders. She thoroughly enjoys watching the power of relationships change behaviors in students. Dr. Davis is known for having caring, candid conversations with parents about their role in educating their children, ensuring that their children are in school on time and prepared to learn. She has no problem with visiting a student’s home when her students or parents aren’t responsive to phone calls or parent meetings. She leads and educates from her heart by fulfilling her God-given purpose every day that she has the power to improve the education of a child. Dr. Davis’ drive for excellence can be seen and heard.
April Jackson
April Jackson is an educator with 15 years of experience in public education as a teacher and literacy coach. She is certified in English and mathematics and holds a BA in English for Miles College and an MA in Secondary Education and MA in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Phoenix.
In January 2020, April Jackson took the leap to become an EDUpreneur and launched PASS Network LLC. PASS is an acronym for Parental Access to Student Support. PASS Network’s mission is to provide parents with the opportunity to offer their children a culturally relevant, academically challenging learning experience in a safe environment. In 2021, she also founded
PASS Network Foundation, a non-profit organization that reaches beyond academic support and offers children enriching experiences and mental health resources through community partnerships and dynamic programming. As part of this mission, she opened PASS Pod, a microschool for families in the South Atlanta area. Each year, her students demonstrate two years of academic growth in reading and mathematics.
April is also the co-founder of Black Microschools ATL, a collaborative of 11 non-traditional learning communities owned by Black women and serving predominantly Black children in the Atlanta area. April Jackson’s efforts in re-imagining education for black children and teaching for Black teachers has been recognized by the Urban League of Greater Atlanta, Village Microfund, and Vela Education Fund.
She is helping families see beyond public schools, charter schools, and private schools, microschools are a viable school option for closing the opportunity gap for their children.
Patrice Maxwell
Patrice Maxwell born in Gadsden, Alabama a 1989 graduate of Litchfield High School! A proud alumni of Miles College, Fairfield, Alabama! I received two masters from The University of Alabama one in elementary education and the other one in instructional leadership. I received my Educational Leadership Specialist(EdS) from Jacksonville State University. I am a member of New Liberty Tabernacle of Praise Assembly of God. I am a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated. I have been an educator in the Gadsden City School System for 30 years. I am currently the Principal of Ray Thompson Elementary School. My greatest accomplishment in life has been educating the minds of so many young people!
“Free Your Mind” – Mental Health & Wellness Panel
Tiffany Sayles
Tiffany Sayles resides in Gadsden Alabama with husband Willie and their three daughters Willow, Willany, and Willay. Mrs.Sayles is a veteran school counselor and currently serves as the Psychology Program Director and Instructor at Talladega College. She has fortunately served students of all ages over the past 20 plus years and mental health support has been a key component in student success. Her passion is to build connections with community partners and offer support to students and their parents. Student success requires a holistic approach which goes beyond academics alone. Mrs. Sayles has earned the title of Favorite Professor for two consecutive years and she attributes this to her willingness to learn and build relationships with all students. Her desire is to continue learning in hopes to share with students, parents, and educators tools to support student success.
LaShonda Miller Kidd
LaShonda Miller-Kidd is a retired Clinical therapist in the state of Mississippi. She worked at Mississippi State Hospital as a psychologist and program director for twenty-five years. After retiring from Mississippi State Hospital in 2021 , she was employed at St. Dominic behavioral health hospital as an Intake Coordinator for the past three years. She specialized in treating adults with acute psychiatric illness such as schizophrenia, behavioral disorders, and depression. She also specialized in the past with psychogenic polydipsia males (water intoxication) for many years. She has tons of experience with adolescents with emotional/behavioral problems at home, in school, or in the community. A major focus in her work has been anxiety/stress management, depression, as well as helping her clients develop healthy coping skills, reduce stress, and prevent burnout.
Specializing in a diverse range of mental health concerns, LaShonda utilizes a variety of techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy, stress management and other evidence based treatment to adolescents and adults clients with a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and adjustment problems. Her commitment to practicing with positive and unconditional regard. She prioritizes creating s safe and nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts , emotions, and experiences freely.
LaShonda resides in Madison Mississippi and is married to Tyrone Kidd. They have four children and three grandchildren.
AREAS OF SPECIALTY:
- Anger Management
- Stress Management
- Suicidal Ideations and other acute problems
- Unsporting behavior related to sports/activities
- Personality disorders
- Relationship Issues
- Trauma and PTSD
- Anxiety/depression
EDUCATION/CERTIFICATIONS
Educational Psychology, Bachelor of Science, Alcorn State University 1992
Clinical Psychology, Masters of Science, Alcorn State University, 1996
Certified Program Director, 2001
Certified Mental Health Therapist (Department of Mental Health)
Director/CEO of “Life-talk” Podcast
Extensive and diverse work experience with adolescents, adults, and elderly
Lasharron Harris
She resides in Birmingham, Alabama and is the proud mother of Christian, her 26-year-old son. Ms. Harris earned a bachelor’s degree in Social Science from the University of Montevallo and a master’s degree in Agency Counseling from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
With over two decades of experience in community-based programming, counseling in mental health, substance abuse, life challenges, and educational administration, she has gained valuable insights.
Throughout her career, she has worked with various sectors in the counseling field, ranging from Foster Care and Substance Abuse agencies to serving as an Independent Contractor with Shelby County DHR, culminating with the Alabama Department of Corrections.
Her administrative skills have enabled her to develop effective strategies that support students in obtaining a college education at a reduced cost. These strategies were successfully implemented for her son, who completed his master’s degree in occupational therapy at Tuskegee University with only $25,000 in student loan debt, significantly less than the $150,000 education cost.
Currently, Ms. Harris has been serving as the Director of TRIO Student Support Services at Lawson State Community College
– Bessemer Campus for the past ten years. Additionally, she dedicates her weekends to providing counseling services with Alabama Wellness and Recovery.
Her mantra is, “I can’t keep the knowledge I’ve acquired to myself. I must share and educate.”
“Everyday I’m Hustlin'” – Workforce Panel
Emefa Butler
Coupled with over 12 years in the financial industry, Emefa spent countless hours displaying her passion and desire to serve others. Her service included helping people execute their purpose, organizations fulfill their mission and businesses improve efficiencies. As she journeyed through her career and labored voluntarily, she realized that her work was not only a passion but a “dream to be realized”. In 2009, she founded C.H.O.I.C.E. and built a team of people who were willing to commit to others and believed enough in the community to “be a resource and give back”. Influenced by the organization’s foundation, volunteers willingness to serve, a leader with a creativeness and innovative spirit, C.H.O.I.C.E. is growing into the resource based platform that was envisioned by Emefa. After raising her son in Birmingham, Alabama and seeing him through his first year of college, Emefa kept her commitment to God. She relocated back to her hometown of Uniontown, Alabama with one mission-“to make a difference”. She often shares that her decision was a “leap of faith after realizing that her success was not measured by her salary but her impact.” Emefa’s attitude of hope drives her level of perseverance and strengthens her ability to overcome life’s greatest challenges and highest obstacles. In addition to work mentioned above, Emefa currently serves as a Manager of a Technical Support Center within the financial industry, as a Board Member for Perry County Board of Education and Central Alabama Works, and as a advisory or active member of other service based agencies and organizations.
Olandus Eason
Olandus is the founder of Spec 9 Commercial Flooring, LLC. Prior to his present capacity, he established a 15-year record of success overseeing all phases of a multimillion-dollar flooring company. His experience ranged from managing company operations to developing a marketing /sales strategy to supervising estimating /project management. Now under his umbrella since 2010, Spec 9 has quickly gained a solid track record for quality and professionalism. His clientele, consisting of general contractors; property managers; schools/universities; hospitals and end-users, appreciate his commitment to competent workmanship and outstanding service. In return, they have entrusted his firm with some of Birmingham’s most high profile projects:
Birmingham International Airport – Re-Modernization
Bradley Arant Boult & Cummings 8th Floor Addition
UAB WIF POB 9th FLoor OBGYN
UAB School of Health 5th & 6th FLoor Addition
Mt. Brook Municipal Center
U.S. Treasury Building
McWane Science Ctr – Itsy Bitsy Magic City
U.S. Steel Corporate Office @ The Preserve
Midfield Western Health – JCDH
UAB Cyber Security Facebook Office Suite
Jefferson County Public Defender’s Office – Medical Forum Building
Viva Health – Downtown Birmingham Relocation
Regions Ctr. Downtown – Renovation
BJCC Medical Forum Bldg – 2nd & 3rd Floor Renovations
Anthony Oliver
A 17-year veteran in the commercial fire sprinkler business. Anthony is well known and highly regarded in the fire sprinkler business because of his in-depth knowledge and experience. He is a trusted and reliable source amongst his peers and colleagues. Anthony has been instrumental in the financial growth of Joiner Fire Sprinkler. He has established relationships and secured new contracts with General Contractors and other prominent companies locally and nationally. Anthony’s responsibilities within the company also include designing fire protection systems in two- and three-dimensional concepts. As part of his position as Safety Director, he coordinates and facilitates all the safety protocols and programs for the company. As a supervisor, Anthony helps determine which ventures are viable projects for the success of Joiner Fire Sprinkler.
Anthony is a 1992 graduate of The University of Virginia. He was a member of the men’s Basketball team that made 3 appearances in the NCAA tournament and won the NIT championship in 1992. Anthony is a licensed minister and a prominent and well-respected member of the Birmingham and surrounding communities. He has been married to Audra Smith for 27 years and they have two children; Anthony Oliver Jr. who is 25 and Adria Oliver who is 24.
“Root Work” UNCF + K12 Initiatives Panelist
Mr. William “Bill” Brown
William Brown, or Bill as he prefers, joined UNCF’s K-12 Advocacy team in the fall of 2019.
Bill serves as the senior community outreach manager and has responsibilities for overseeing UNCF’s community engagement activities, both here in the Washington, DC, region, as well as UNCF activities in Indianapolis, IN. Brown comes equipped with vast knowledge and experience having worked on K-12 issues for nearly a decade. Prior to joining UNCF, Bill worked on education policy and oversight at the Council of the District of Columbia, serving in the offices of the Council Chairman and two At-Large Council offices; including former At-Large Council Member Sekou Biddle who now serves as UNCF’s vice president for K-12 advocacy.
Bill is a native Washingtonian and graduate of DC Public School System. He has served as an elected Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner and Chair of ANC 1A, in addition to his appointment to several commissions, boards and councils. Currently, Bill serves on the Board of One World Education, a DC-based educational non-profit focused on improving students’ research, writing, and public speaking skills and deepen their content knowledge about critical social justice issues
Ashlyn Thomas
Ashlyn Thomas is the Research and Community Engagement Manager in the K-12 Advocacy at UNCF. She helps guide and conduct research while building community relationships to impact educational environments positively. Ashlyn has knowledge of and experience with gathering and synthesizing data from publicly available data sources and excels in writing literature reviews, research reports, and analyzing data. Ms. Thomas specializes in data-driven analysis and community engagement to foster learning environments that thrive on innovation and inclusivity. The dual expertise enables her to bridge the gap between research and practice, ensuring educational programs are grounded in solid data and enriched by vibrant community participation. Ashlyn has spent 5 years working in the educational non-profit organization, demonstrating skills in project management, project collaboration, data interpretation, relationship building, and tool development to tackle critical educational challenges. Ms. Thomas received her BA from the University of California, Irvine, and her M.Ed. in education policy and leadership from American University.
Casi Ferguson
Casi Ferguson is a proud native of Birmingham, AL. She has enjoyed a fulfilling career in the private sector spanning more than 30 years.
A change-maker, Ferguson has achieved success through a plethora of professional and philanthropic efforts and organizations. As an advocate for education, community development, and entrepreneurship, Ferguson has served on countless boards and championed many community service efforts.
In 2010, Ferguson served as a co-chair for the UNCF Gala-Birmingham and she has served on the organization’s Area Leadership Team for the past 20 years. In 2013, she was the recipient of the Jesse J. Lewis Jr. Small Business Advocate Award presented by the Birmingham Business Alliance, in acknowledgement of contributions to minority business programs and services.
Ferguson graduated from Talladega College with a B.S. in business administration; she was also a member of the Talladega College Choir. She has earned several project management certificates and is a member of the Tri-County Alabama Chapter of The Links, Inc. She has been an active member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Fairfield.
Honoring Our Next Level Leader Cohort 1 Graduates
Shatae Martin
Shatae Martin: A Dedicated Educator and Community Advocate
Shatae Martin, a 33-year-old with a heart full of passion, was born and raised in the small town of Troy, AL. She has a 7 year old son who inspires her to create generational change. From a young age, Shatae displayed a deep commitment to education and community, which has become a defining aspect of her life.
Because of community Shatae is a product of the TRIO Upward Bound program where she began her quest for higher education. Her academic journey began at Troy University and later led her to Jacksonville State University, where she pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Arts in Communications, with a minor in Spanish. Recognizing the importance of education and its impact on young minds, Shatae continued her educational pursuits and earned a Masters of Science in Early Childhood Education.
For the past 3 years, Shatae has been a driving force as a third-grade teacher. She is currently a proud teacher at Legacy Prep Charter School. Her dedication to nurturing young minds and fostering a love for learning has made her a beloved figure in her students’ lives. Prior to her career in education, Shatae spent four years working in community Mental Health. During this time, she served as a case manager and a child and adolescent In-Home Intervention co-therapist. Her tireless efforts in this field demonstrated her unwavering commitment to supporting individuals in need.
Not only is Shatae an educator and community advocate, but she’s also an active member of House of Prayer church under the leadership of Bishop Kevin Williams. Within the church, she serves on the Minister Team and plays an essential role in the children’s ministry and growth group leadership. Her dedication to shaping young lives extends beyond the classroom into the spiritual realm.
Shatae’s passion for pouring into the youth is evident in every aspect of her life. Whether it’s through her work at the school, her involvement in the church, or her previous roles in mental health, she consistently goes above and beyond to make a positive impact on the lives of others, especially the younger generation. Shatae Martin: A beacon of light, a dedicated teacher, a compassionate advocate, and a mentor to the youth. Her journey reflects a deep-rooted commitment to making the world a better place, one heart and one mind at a time.
Tameka Stephens
Tameka is a dedicated and accomplished educator with a profound commitment to student success and community involvement. Tameka has made significant strides in her career, evolving from a substitute teacher to an instructional aide, then to a classroom teacher, and now a highly respected National Board Certified teacher. She stands out as the only person of color with this distinguished title in her region, which is served by the JSU Regional In-service Center. This center is part of the Alabama Regional Inservice Center (ARIC) network, servicing seven counties, 15 school systems, and approximately 128 schools.
Tameka’s growth in the educational field has been marked by her dedication to fostering an inclusive and effective learning environment for all students. Tameka’s passion for education is matched by her dedication to continuous improvement and professional growth. She actively participates in various conferences, sharing her expertise and insights on a national, state, and local level. As a committee member for conferences for both the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) and the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE), Tameka contributes to the advancement of education in multiple disciplines, ensuring high standards and innovative practices are upheld. Her commitment to excellence in education has been recognized by her peers and the broader educational community, earning her numerous accolades and recognition.
As a mother of three sons, Tameka is deeply involved in supporting her children. Her two younger sons, Grey, 13; and Hunter, 10, are honor students with numerous awards in education, academics, theatre, and sports. Tameka’s dedication to her family and her career exemplifies her as a role model in both personal and professional realms. Tameka balances her demanding career with her responsibilities as a mother, ensuring her children receive the support and encouragement they need to succeed. Her ability to navigate these dual roles with grace and determination is a testament to her strength and character.
Tameka is an active and dedicated member of New Destiny Christian Center under the inspirational leadership of Pastor Steve and Rita Smith. Her unwavering faith and commitment to her church community have been a cornerstone of her life. For over 14 years, Tameka has passionately taught children’s church, instilling spiritual values and a love for learning in the hearts of young minds. Her dedication to her faith and her church family is evident in her tireless efforts to support and nurture the next generation. Tameka’s involvement in the church has not only enriched her spiritual life but has also strengthened her sense of community and purpose.
Beyond her professional achievements, Tameka is also an advocate for personal development and health. She has embarked on a transformative journey of self-care, having lost nearly 100 pounds and embracing a healthier lifestyle with her family. This journey has not only improved her physical well-being but also enhanced her mental and emotional resilience. Her story is one of perseverance, dedication, and unwavering commitment to both her personal and professional life. Through her professional accomplishments and personal journey, Tameka embodies the qualities of a true leader and advocate for education and personal growth. Her impact on the lives of her students, family, and community is profound and enduring.
