Courtney B. Vance has carefully cultivated an extraordinary career that showcases his passion, talent, and intellect. Known for successfully finding the dignity and honor in each character he explores; this Harvard scholar and Yale School of Drama trained actor is a powerful presence from the theatrical boards to the silver screen.

Courtney’s stunning portrayal of Johnnie Cochran in FX’s The People vs. OJ Simpson: American Crime Story earned him Emmy, Critics Choice, and NAACP Image awards, as well as SAG and Golden Globe nominations. His role as the beloved and pivotal character, “Uncle George,” in HBO’s critically acclaimed drama horror series Lovecraft Country, earned Courtney an Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actor Drama Series, his second career Emmy win, as well as a Hollywood Critics Association nomination and a Black Reel TV Award. He also starred in NatGeo’s Genius: Aretha in which he portrays Aretha Franklin’s father, Rev. C.L. Franklin. Courtney was recognized for his performance with the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a TV Movie/Miniseries/Dramatic Special, with nominations from the Hollywood Critics Association, Critics Choice Awards, and Black Reel TV Awards.

His most recent project, 61st Street, a criminal justice drama executive produced by Michael B. Jordan and Alana Mayo of Outlier Society from BAFTA winner Peter Moffat announced to air on the CW Network, earned Courtney an AAFCA TV Honors Award. Courtney’s next feature film, Heist 88, in which he stars and is produced by Bassett Vance Productions, will air on Showtime Networks in 2023.

Courtney’s other recent films include the Universal/Will Packer romantic drama, The Photograph, with Issa Rae and LaKeith Stanfield, directed by Stella Meghie, and Netflix Originals’ Uncorked, with Niecy Nash and Mamoudou Athie.

His debut as Spc. Abraham ‘Doc’ Johnson in Hamburger Hill launched a prolific cinematic career that includes historically noteworthy films such as The Hunt for Red October, The Preacher’s Wife, The Adventures of Huck Finn, and Terminator Genisys.

On the stage, Courtney received Tony Award nominations for his debut performance in August Wilson’s Fences and his starring role in Six Degrees of Separation. He won the Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Play for his stellar performance in Nora Ephron’s Lucky Guy. Additionally, Courtney earned a Grammy nomination for his narration of Neil DeGrasse Tyson’s book, ACCESSORY TO WAR.

Notably, Courtney is President of the SAG-AFTRA Foundation. In this capacity, Courtney continues to build on the Foundation’s legacy of providing educational resources for people who are pursuing all forms of the performing arts; promoting the children’s literacy program as an avenue to empower youth through storytelling; and leading the Foundation’s Entertainment Industry Council designed to provide support for artists throughout their careers. Throughout the hardship of the entertainment industry shutdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Courtney and the Foundation’s team implemented a robust fundraising initiative, which distributed more than $6.1 million to over 6,500 SAG-AFTRA performers and their families.

Courtney and Angela’s Bassett Vance Productions is in partnership with MTVE Studios to create diverse and inclusive content for Paramount Global. Their first project, ONE THOUSAND YEARS OF SLAVERY, aired in February 2022 on the Smithsonian Channel.

Courtney is the recipient of the Bounce Trumpet Awards Excellence in Entertainment Honor, an ABFF Honors Excellence in the Arts Award, and is a proud Ambassador for the Boys and Girls Clubs of America. His new book, THE INVISIBLE ACHE: Black Men Identifying Their Pain and Reclaiming Their Power, co-written with Dr. Robin L. Smith, will publish in November 2023 (GCP Balance). He currently resides in Southern California with Angela and their twins, Bronwyn Golden and Slater Josiah.

DaShaun Johnson, known as THE GURU OF ABS in the fitness industry is a native of Decatur, Ga who passion for fitness began 11 years ago when he landed a job at LA fitness in Atlanta, GA. It was then that he realized he was destined be a group fitness instructor and personal trainer who would change people’s lives for the better through fitness and nutrition. After much hard work and dedication, he was presented with his first big opportunity to be a sponsored Nike Training Club (NTC) instructor.

Today, DaShaun focuses on his new all-natural dietary supplement line and tours the country offering innovative Body Sculpting programs that has helped transform the physiques of people all over the world. His body sculpting programs include a seated exercise program designed specifically for senior citizens titled Senior Body Sculpting which has been featured on local and national news stations such as Fox 5 Atlanta News and CNN Headline News (HLN). DaShaun also offers a 360 Body Sculpting for anyone desiring to focus on strength training and weight loss and his latest innovative creation, Sculpt-In-42 Body Sculpting Online Training Program that will feature instructional, LIVE classes & workouts.

Recognized as one of the BEST abdominal specialists in the fitness industry, DaShaun continues to be a pillar of positive change in the fitness community, motivating his clients to be the very BEST versions of themselves while following his lead.

A #1 bestselling author, sought-after speaker, experienced media personality, ordained minister, and host of SiriusXM’s The Dr. Robin Show, Dr. Robin addresses today’s most pressing societal challenges through fearless truth-telling. As a licensed psychologist known for her signature four-step prescription Wake Up! Show Up! Grow Up! Rise Up!™, she brings a uniquely healing perspective to our nation’s most daunting social justice and mental health issues: from systemic racism and racial violence, to grief and loss, to discrimination based on gender and sexual orientation, to recovering and rebounding as a nation following crises.

She was introduced to viewers globally during her years as the on-air therapist for The Oprah Winfrey Show. She currently works with major corporations, non-profit organizations, and sports and entertainment professionals, leading breakthrough programs and presentations that help people overcome adversity. Dr. Robin is the author of The New York Times #1 bestseller Lies at the Altar: The Truth About Great Marriages, which has been translated into 14 languages, as well as the soulful memoir Hungry: The Truth About Being Full and Inspirational Vitamins: A Guide to Personal Empowerment.

Dr. Robin has a PhD in counseling psychology from Temple University and a master’s degree from Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary.

One of the most popular and highly recognized standup comedians on the road today has also made quite an impression in the television, film, author and radio arenas. DL can currently be heard nationwide as host of his own afternoon radio show “The DL Hughley Show” which is nationally syndicated in over 60 cities across the country including the #1 radio market – New York. The radio show dives head first into hot topics of the day and dishes on the latest news, entertainment, pop culture and what's trending in social media.

Darryl “DL” Hughley grew up on “106th & Avalon” in South Central Los Angeles, California. He is the second of four children. His father Charles was an airline maintenance worker and his mother Audrey was a homemaker. He was a member of the “Bloods” gang, but after getting kicked out of High School and watching his Cousin get shot, he turned his life around by receiving his GED and obtaining a job as a telemarketer for the Los Angeles Times, where he moved into management and met LaDonna, his wife-to-be. LaDonna was the one who convinced him to try his humor onstage. After years of club dates, he was selected by BET as the first host of "Comic View”.

As the star and producer of his namesake television show that ran on ABC and UPN The Hughleys, DL is also well known as one of the standout comedians on the hit comedy docu-film The Original Kings of Comedy. A veteran of numerous talk show appearances DL switched the tables in 2005, hosting his own talk show on Comedy Central, Weekends at the DL. He is a regular on the late night talk show circuit, including always-memorable appearances on Real Time with Bill Maher and The Tonight Show. He is frequently requested as a guest host for such shows as Good Morning America, The View and Live with Kelly and Ryan.

In 2012, Random House books released his first humorous book title, I Want You to Shut the F*ck Up. That same year, DL also created and starred in the satirical documentary special for Comedy Central DL Hughley: The Endangered List, which premiered to rave reviews. The special was honored with the prestigious George Foster Peabody Award at the 72nd Annual Peabody Awards. In 2016, DL released his second book Black Man, White House: An Oral History of the Obama Years, described as a satirical retrospective of Obama’s years in office. The book went on to make the New York Times Bestseller List.

In addition, in June of 2018 Harper Collins released DL’s third book How Not To Get Shot, And Other Advice From White People. The book, a satirical conversation about race relations, became DL’s second book to reach the New York Times Bestseller List. He released his fourth book, Surrender White People in July of 2020 and his fifth book How To Survive America in June of 2021.

Known for being astute and politically savvy in true comedian-style, DL served as host of his own late night talk shows on CNN DL Hughley Breaks the News, TV-One’s The DL Hughley Show, and was a series regular on the Aaron Sorkin NBC drama Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip. DL hosted the TBS’s game show Trust Me, I’m a Game Show Host. He also tapped into his playful side and participated in the 16th season of the hit ABC show Dancing with the Stars.

DL shot his 11th stand up special “DL Hughley: Contrarian” in 2018. The special is currently available on Netflix.

DL’s first love always has been, and always will be, standup comedy. “From the moment I first walked onstage and picked up a microphone,” he says, “I knew that it was what I was meant to do.”

DL is currently the Executive Producer and star of DL Hughley: UnCut on the Laugh Out Loud Network.

JAMES PICKENS, JR. is an actor, producer and philanthropist. As an actor, he has the distinction of being an original cast member of the longest running medical drama in television history, Grey’s Anatomy. For his role as former chief of staff, Dr. Richard Webber, he earned a SAG Award, a People’s Choice Award and an NAACP Image Award.

Born and raised in Cleveland, OH, he began his acting career at Cleveland’s Karamu House, the oldest African-American theater in the United States. He moved to New York and performed in the historic 1981 production of A Soldiers’ Play at the Negro Ensemble Company with fellow cast members Denzel Washington and Samuel L. Jackson.

Upon moving to Los Angeles, Pickens worked steadily on both small and big screen, appearing in films directed by some of Hollywood’s finest directors, including, Steven Soderbergh Traffic, Oliver Stone’s Nixon, Warren Beatty’s Bulworth, and four Barry Levinson films: Jimmy Hollywood, Sleepers, Sphere and Liberty City. He portrayed slain civil rights leader Medgar Evers in Ghosts of Mississippi, which starred Whoopi Goldberg and was directed by Rob Reiner. He can next be seen in the upcoming film, 80 for Brady, with Jane Fonda.

His television credits include recurring roles on Beverly Hills, 90210, The X-Files (both the original and the reboot), The Practice, NYPD Blue, Curb Your Enthusiasm, The West Wing, Roseanne and the reincarnation of that series, The Conners, and many more.

As a producer, he has several projects in the works, including his passion project, a film on the life of the first Black U.S. marshal, Bass Reeves.

In his spare time, he hosts an annual team roping event, which attracts some of the best competitive team ropers in the sport. Proceeds from this event benefit the James Pickens, Jr. Foundation, a charity he co-founded with his wife of 30 years, Gina Taylor-Pickens. The foundation’s mission is to enhance the lives of families and children in underserved communities.

Dr. Randy W. Hawkins is an African-American physician who has been in private practice in Inglewood California since 1986. He has held leadership positions in several arena’s over the past 30 years. He has been a Co-Director of a profitable medium sized IPA. He has been on the Board of several volunteer organizations including the Sickle Disease Research Foundation and the American Lung Association. He is an active member of the Golden State Medical Association of California, the National Medical Association and the Charles R. Drew Medical Society. He has held most offices of the Charles R. Drew Medical Society (CRDMS) including President, and was the treasurer for 4 years prior. The CRDMS is the Los Angeles affiliate of the National Medical Association (NMA). The CRDMS promotes the interest of physicians and patients of African descent (although it has a non-discriminatory policy) as a collective voice of Los Angeles physicians. It is a leading force for parity and justice in medicine, the elimination of health disparities, and the promotion of optimal health.

He is clinical assistant professor of medicine at the Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science. He is Board-certified in Internal Medicine and Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine. He has been a Member of the Medical Board of California since 2015 and is the current vice-president. He is also a Member of the Food and Drug Administration Cellular, Tissue and Gene Therapy Advisory Committee since 2017. He is a Board Member of Health Professions Education Foundation since 2018. Governor Gavin Newsom appointed him to the Physician Assistant Board in August 2020.

In his daily practice he reports he provides exceptional comprehensive medical care with an emphasis on preventive medicine modalities and patient education. He believes continuing medical education includes the Community which is often underserved. To this end, he states that his personal experience includes his daily role as a primary care physician, as a consultant, as a provider sponsoring in-office symposia for our patients and as a community educator.

He has a personal interest in mentoring physicians in training (medical students and residents) in the area of primary care where a serious workforce deficiency exists in the United States. His office structure offers close mentorship, with exposure to a broad range of common and important diagnoses. His approach to preceptorship emphasizes the importance of taking a complete history, performing a comprehensive physical examination and approaches to formulation and critical thinking based on an educational foundation. He incorporates essential issues of poverty, education, healthcare disparity, racism, ptsd, social determinants of health and health inequity. Cultural competency is emphasized.

He enjoys theater and most arts, cooking and music. Dr. Hawkins is married and has two adult children.

Dr. Denise Bronner is a patient-focused strategist with 5+ years of experience developing global operational plans that have maintained a robust track with DEI recruitment goals. Prior to tenure at Janssen, she was a hypothesis-driven scientist with over 7 years of experience investigating cellular stress pathway impact on innate immune responses. She has published 12 high-impact publications, served as a keynote speaker in front of audiences ranging from 250-8000+ attendees.

Dr. Bronner holds a PhD in Microbiology & Immunology from the University of Michigan where she served on executive boards of organizations focused on increasing minorities and women presence in STEM fields. She recently started a LinkedIn newsletter called the Pulse which focuses on uncovering challenges in clinical research & the solutions for achieving health equity for all. Denise serves as a Director within the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Clinical Trials team where she develops all of the DEI strategies for the Janssen Immunology portfolio.

Dr. JaBaris Swain is a Medical Executive at Johnson & Johnson, visiting us from Philadelphia, PA. Dr. JaBaris Swain's journey began at Janssen Pharmaceuticals in July 2020. Initially a clinical lead physician, he now serves as Medical Executive for Health Systems Integration, aligning strategy for cardiovascular medical affairs with the quintuple aim.

Beyond pharmaceuticals, Dr. Swain is a cardiothoracic transplant surgeon-scientist and global health scholar. His humanitarian work in Rwanda and Haiti enhances healthcare access through cardiac surgery and education. Academically, he holds a medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia, an MPH from Harvard, and completed surgical training and a fellowship in cardiopulmonary transplantation at the University of Pennsylvania Hospital. His research focuses on gene therapy for heart failure. Currently pursuing an Executive MBA at Wharton, Dr. Swain mentors at Pearlman School of Medicine and directs the Dr. Ala Stanford Center for Health Equity, advancing health equity and reducing disparities in Philadelphia.

Professional Aspirations and Dreams:
Dr. Swain’s professional aspirations are deeply intertwined with the vision of the Yoko Village Health and Wellness Clinic. He strives to create spaces where healthcare is not just about treating illnesses but also about promoting well-being and preventing diseases. He aspires to continue working in healthcare, collaborating with dedicated teams to create patient-centric models of care that are accessible, inclusive, and effective. Ultimately, he wishes to contribute to the establishment of healthcare systems that prioritize the physical, mental, and emotional health of individuals, leading to healthier communities and more vibrant society as a whole.

Ron Urioste, M.S, M.Phil., is currently Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Janssen Research and Development, a Johnson & Johnson company. Ron is an experienced clinical development professional, with 30 years of experience, 21 of which have been with J&J. He has played a leadership role in helping to bring 9 new pharmaceutical products to market in the areas of neuropsychiatric disorders, cardiovascular and metabolic disease, and gastroenterological disorders.

An active supporter of diversity and inclusion initiatives at J&J and his community, Ron was a charter member and Chapter Leader of the J&J Hispanic Organization for Leadership and Achievement (HOLA) employee resource group for five years and continues to support local and national organizations committed to health equity.

Ron holds a BS in Biopsychology from Stony Brook University, and MS in Neuropsychology from the City University of New York, and an M.Phil. from the doctoral program in Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience at Rutgers University.

Sanjay S. Shukla, M.D., M.S., is President and Chief Executive Officer of aTyr Pharma, where he also serves on the Board of Directors, since November 2017. Dr. Shukla previously served as Chief Medical Officer of aTyr from March 2016 to November 2017. From April 2015 to March 2016, Dr. Shukla worked in an advisory capacity for a number of companies, including as a consultant to aTyr from January 2016 to March 2016. Prior to that, from October 2012 to April 2015.

Dr. Shukla served as Vice President and Global Head of Integrated Medical Services for Novartis, a biopharmaceutical company, where he led global medical affairs operations, with oversight for all pharma general medicines therapies, both inline and in development. Dr. Shukla served as Chief Executive Officer of RXMD, a clinical development consultancy that assisted in advancing proof of concept for early stage drug candidates, from April 2009 to September 2012. Prior to that, Dr. Shukla served in a variety of clinical development, data analytics and drug safety roles at Vifor Pharma, a biopharmaceutical company, and Aspreva Pharmaceuticals (acquired by Vifor Pharma).

Dr. Shukla received his M.D. from Howard University College of Medicine and his Bachelors of Science in Microbiology and Master of Science in Epidemiology and Biostatistics from the University of Maryland.

Alana H. is kidney transplant recipient. Because of kidney diseases, Nephrotic Syndrome and Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), Alana has had two kidney transplants. Her first transplant lasted ten years. Alana’s husband, Reggie, was the donor for her second transplant in September of 2016. Alana says she became a Kidney Transplant Connector because of a promise she made to herself: after her transplant, she would use that gift to serve others.

Dr. Osundina is currently the Lead (Director) of US Public Affairs and Patient Advocacy Transplant at Sanofi. Her intention as a devoted advocate to the organizations she works with is to develop authentic partnerships that advance innovation, facilitate access, and improve health for communities affected by serious disease. Dr. Osundina has experience in health outcomes research, public health policy, and global health with a passion for identifying innovative health equity solutions that incorporate the patient voice into transformative research.

In her current role, Dr. Osundina leads patient advocacy efforts focusing on solid organ and stem cell transplants. Through collaborations with advocacy stakeholders and various internal matrix teams, she works to evaluate opportunities and develop unique solutions to ensure that diverse populations have access to treatment & care, and that their voices are heard and understood across early research, development, and commercial product phases.

Dr. Osundina received her Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD), Masters in Health Outcomes and Socioeconomic Sciences and a Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences from the University of Toledo, in Ohio. On a personal level, she enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, discovering new places through travel and giving back to the community by volunteering locally and abroad.

Dr. Reema Dirks earned a Doctor of Pharmacology degree from the University of Missouri- Kansas City. After working in community pharmacy, Reema realized she could make an impact at the patient level by working to educate healthcare providers and facilitating research working in the pharmaceutical industry. Thus began her career as a medical science liaison (MSL).

Over her 15 years of experience, Reema has grown her passion for education by providing education to people living with asthma specifically in underserved and underrecognized populations. Having asthma in her family and living in an urban environment, she recognizes that better asthma control lies in educating yourself about your disease and advocating for yourself. Reema proudly hails from Oakland, California.

Reggie C. became a living donor because his wife, Alana, was living with chronic kidney disease. Reggie says, “Donating my kidney has allowed Alana and me to fulfill a long-time dream of growing our family.”

Two years post-transplant, they became the proud parents of a healthy baby girl. As a Kidney Transplant Connector, Reggie’s hope is that sharing his experiences will inspire people to consider donating. He believes talking with someone who has been through the process can make their decision much easier.

Nataly ShayanSmith graduated from the University of California, Berkeley in May 2022 with a BA in Public Health. While in University, Nataly participated in Laboratory Research with the Kaufer Lab to investigate molecular events that underlie brain plasticity and deterioration in the face of stress and neurological insults throughout life. She also served as a Health Worker for the University TANG Medical Center to act as a liaison between students, faculty, and staff and medical resources offered by the university and community.

Because of her passion for health advocacy, Nataly serves as a Health Educator for the Rivkin Center to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools for early detection, prevention, and self-advocacy so they can be proactive about their health. Since graduation, Nataly has been working at Amgen as an Associate for the Career Discovery Program. Currently, she is a member of the RISE (Representation in Clinical Research) team working to improving the diversity and representation of participants in the company's clinical trials.

Dr. Osundina is currently the Lead (Director) of US Public Affairs and Patient Advocacy Transplant at Sanofi. Her intention as a devoted advocate to the organizations she works with is to develop authentic partnerships that advance innovation, facilitate access, and improve health for communities affected by serious disease. Dr. Osundina has experience in health outcomes research, public health policy, and global health with a passion for identifying innovative health equity solutions that incorporate the patient voice into transformative research.

In her current role, Dr. Osundina leads patient advocacy efforts focusing on solid organ and stem cell transplants. Through collaborations with advocacy stakeholders and various internal matrix teams, she works to evaluate opportunities and develop unique solutions to ensure that diverse populations have access to treatment & care, and that their voices are heard and understood across early research, development, and commercial product phases.

Dr. Osundina received her Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD), Masters in Health Outcomes and Socioeconomic Sciences and a Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences from the University of Toledo, in Ohio. On a personal level, she enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, discovering new places through travel and giving back to the community by volunteering locally and abroad.

Wendy Raquel Robinson is a 2021 and 2022 Emmy Award Winning Producer, Philanthropist, Actress, and NAACP Image Award recipient, known for her groundbreaking roles as ambitious, leading women on television and film. A cum laude graduate of Howard University, where she honed her artistic skills in acting, directing, writing, directing, producing, and choreographing, Robinson is one of the most talented and professional actors in the entertainment industry, She continually strives for excellence in her career as an artist, scholar, mentor and Co-founder/Artistic Director of Amazing Grace Conservatory, (AGC) a theatrical training institute, that provides performing, media and digital arts opportunities for youth and young adults interested in careers in the entertainment industry.

Robinson is best known as the no nonsense diva principal, ‘Regina Grier’ on the “The Steve Harvey Show” for six seasons. She made television history as the first African American actress to portray Disney’s iconic villain, Cruella DeVille, in Disney Channel’s, “Descendants” directed by Emmy Award-winning director and choreographer Kenny Ortega.

Robinson made history by portraying the feisty, savvy, mom-manager and mogul 'Tasha Mack,' on the groundbreaking dramedy, "The Game" for an unprecedented 11 seasons! The fan favorite show premiered on the CW Network, BET and is currently in production of Season 2 on the Paramount Plus streaming platform. Wendy is no stranger to television and has been a Series Regular on TV One’s generational comedy, “Here We Go Again”, ABC’s bold, provocative drama, “Grand Hotel”, executive produced by Eva Longoria and recurring roles on ABC’s comedy, “The Mayor”, Netflix's “Dear White People,”, HBO’s “Insecure,” Netflix's Family Reunion, and most recently the newly rebooted "MacGyver" on CBS.

Robinson’s additional television and film credits include the 2017 psychological horror drama remake of “Flatliners,” "Miss Congeniality,” “Something New,” “Rebound,” “Two Can Play That Game,” "A weekend with the Family,” "A Christmas Surprise,” "A Christmas Reunion,” and the 30th Anniversary Pan African American Film Festival's 'Remember Me-The Mahalia Jackson Story.” Additional television credits include roles on ABC’s “Grey’s Anatomy," Fox's animated show, "Family Guy,” and “Cedric the Entertainer Presents!”

With her incandescent personality and vivacious spirit, Ms. Robinson has been the recipient of various national awards as well as local dignitaries in the City and County of Los Angeles for her philanthropy, community, and entrepreneurial leadership of Amazing Grace Conservatory, which was named as one of California’s 2019 Nonprofits of the Year. Amazing Grace Conservatory has been servicing youth ages 5-18 years old in the Los Angeles community for over 25 years. AGC has touched, moved, and inspired thousands of lives including prestigious alumni Issa Rae, Ashton Sanders and Aldis Hodge to name a few. Hearts are healed and lives are changed at AGC! Robinson continues to reveal the myriad of talents she possesses, through hosting appearances and as a distinguished keynote speaker to various audiences that range from women empowerment symposiums to inspiring youth from all walks of life to seek brighter futures for themselves and their families.

Over the course of a journalistic career that has seen him interview multiple U.S. presidents to the top athletes and entertainers in Hollywood, Roland S. Martin is a journalist who has always maintained a clear sense of his calling in this world. Many have bestowed upon him the moniker, “The Voice Of Black America.”

Martin is the host and managing editor of #RolandMartinUnfiltered, the first daily online show in history focused on news and analysis of politics, entertainment, sports, and culture from an explicitly African American perspective. It launched on Sept. 4, 2018.

On Sept. 4, 2021, Martin launched the Black Star Network, an OTT network that features a variety of shows focused on news, culture, finance, wellness, history and wellness. BSN is available on Apple and Android phones; Apple and Android TV; Roku; Amazon Fire, XBox One and Samsung TV.

For the last two years, Martin produces a twice daily commentary on iHeartRadio’s Black Information Network, heard on nearly 40 stations nationwide. He is the author of four books. His latest is “White Fear: How The Browning of America Is Making White Folks Lose Their Minds.” His other books are: Listening to the Spirit Within: 50 Perspectives on Faith; Speak, Brother! A Black Man’s View of America; and The First: President Barack Obama’s Road to the White House as originally reported by Roland S. Martin.

Martin has contributed to several others, including Paradox of Loyalty: An African American Response to the War on Terrorism by Julianne Malveaux; Black Woman Redefined: Dispelling Myths and Discovering Fulfillment in the Age of Michelle Obama by Sophia Nelson; Faivish Pewzner New York and Fatherhood: Rising to the Ultimate Challenge by Etan Thomas and Nick Chiles. He is a sought after international speaker, delivering speeches and lectures to numerous groups annually, electrifying audiences with his deep understanding of history, politics and culture.

He has been named four times by Ebony Magazine as one of the 150 Most Influential African Americans in the United States.

When Jet Magazine readers voted in 2012 for who is “King of the Hill” in terms of who they turn to on issues of concern to African Americans, Martin came on top, ahead of the likes of the Rev. Al Sharpton and Donna Brazile. NewsOne.com named as the number one Black pundit in the country; and he has been named several times to The Root 100, their annual list of influential African Americans.

In October 2022, Martin was named a Fellow of the Society of Professional Journalists, the organization’s highest honor. In December 2021, he was inducted as the youngest living member of the National Association of Black Journalists Hall Of Fame. In 2008, he was also inducted into the Texas A&M University Journalism Hall of Honor.

In his career, Martin has been showered with more than 40 awards for journalistic excellence, including being named the Journalist of the Year in 2013 by the National Association of Black Journalists for his extensive focus on voter suppression and other issues of concern to African Americans during the 2012 election.

Martin was also awarded the 2008 President’s Award by the National Association of Black Journalists for his work in multiple media platforms.

He is a four-time NAACP Image Award winner, including named Best Host for the last two years.

Martin spent six years as a contributor for CNN, appearing on numerous shows and earning accolades near and far for his no-holds honesty, conviction and perspective on various issues. In 2009, CNN was awarded the Peabody Award for its outstanding 2008 election coverage, of which Martin was a member of the Best Political Team on Television.

From 2008 to 2019, Martin was a senior analyst for the Tom Joyner Morning Show, where his daily segment was heard on more than 100 stations and 8 million people daily.

Martin has been named one of the top 50 political pundits by the Daily Telegraph in the United Kingdom, and has appeared numerous times on a variety of American networks, as well as media outlets in Canada, Columbia, Italy, Australia and South Africa.

From October 2005 to October 2008, he served as a radio talk show for WVON-AM in Chicago, first as mid-day host and later as morning drive host.

He is the former executive editor/general manager of the Chicago Defender, the nation’s most historic Black newspaper. A digital media pioneer, Martin launched the first Black news source audio and video podcast in 2005 and 2006 at the Defender.

He is the former founding news editor for Savoy Magazine under the team of New York-based Vanguarde Media, and the former founding editor of BlackAmericaWeb.com.

He previously served as owner/publisher of Dallas-Fort Worth Heritage, a Christian monthly newspaper. He also has worked as managing editor of the Houston Defender and the Dallas Weekly, which he led to a number of local, state and national journalism awards.

Martin has worked as morning drive reporter for KRLD/1080 AM; news director and morning anchor at KKDA-AM in Dallas; city hall reporter for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram; and county government and neighbors reporter for the Austin American-Statesman. He has also written pieces for Ebony and Essence magazines.

Mr. Martin is a life member of the National Association of Black Journalists; a life member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc..; and a member of Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

He is a board member of the education reform group, 50Can.

Martin a 1987 graduate of Jack Yates High School-Magnet School of Communications, and a 1991 graduate of Texas A&M University, where he earned a bachelor’s of science degree in journalism.

He has been awarded honorary degrees from Florida Memorial University; University of Maryland-University College; Lemoyne-Owen College; Lane College; and South Carolina State University.

He is married to the Rev. Jacquie Hood Martin, author of “Fulfilled! The Art and Joy of Balanced Living,” and “Wedded Bliss: A 52-Week Devotional to Balanced Living” and the children’s book series, “Hannah’s Heart.”

They reside in northern Virginia and the Dallas area.

Audra J. Johnson, Ph.D., is a Medical Science Liaison at Genentech, focusing on the areas of Rheumatology, Immunology, and Gastroenterology. She most recently received global recognition for her efforts, as part of a team that located and helped to provide medication to patients with Covid-19 during the height of the pandemic. Before starting her career in the pharmaceutical industry, Johnson was an IRACDA postdoctoral scholar at UCSF, working with mentor Jody Baron, MD, Ph.D. Through the IRACDA program, Johnson also served as an instructor at SF State University for undergrad and graduate students in pharmacology.

Johnson earned her Ph.D. in Chemical Biology and Stem Cell-Focused Therapeutic Development at The Scripps Research Institute, and received her undergraduate degree from SF State University. In her free time, she continues to be insatiably curious, is an avid reader and aerialist, and loves volunteering time to support diversity programs and initiatives.

Marsha Calloway-Campbell has enjoyed a successful dual-career for the past 35+ years as an attorney and Market Research consultant. She currently practices in the areas of Estate Planning and Probate Law and, as Principal of a consultancy firm, Marsha works with top Fortune 100 companies with a focus on Qualitative Research.

As a result of a multiple myeloma diagnosis in 2017, Marsha became a caregiver to her husband as he continues to navigate his myeloma journey. In January 2022, Marsha started her role as Director of the Black Myeloma Health Initiative at HealthTree Foundation, a myeloma patient-advocacy organization. This program is committed to bringing awareness and education of myeloma to the Black communities and advocacy for myeloma patients.

Becoming a health advocate allows Marsha to make a difference in the lives of those who have been diagnosed with multiple myeloma. She still enjoys providing legal advice and consultative services to her clients, however her passion for outreach in the health advocacy space is extremely rewarding.

Marsha lives in the Cincinnati area and has been married to her high school sweetheart for 38 years. She has three young adult daughters and a three-year old grandson, Justice. Marsha is a proud 43-year member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated where she was initiated at the University of Cincinnati, Omicron Chapter in 1980.

After graduation, Marsha attended the University of Cincinnati College of Law, graduating in 1985. She is admitted to the Ohio Supreme Court Bar and the Federal District Court Bar, Southern District of Ohio, 6th Circuit.

Chidinma Chima-Melton, MD, MBA, is a practicing pulmonologist and physician leader dedicated to delivering evidence-based compassionate care to vulnerable populations. Dr. Chima-Melton received her medical degree from Stony Brook University School of Medicine, New York and her training in Internal Medicine at Yale University. She did her fellowship in Pulmonary and Critical Medicine at Cedars Sinai Medical Center. Following her fellowship, Dr. Chima-Melton joined UCLA and is currently a board certified pulmonologist with an interest in Interstitial Lung Disease, Occupational and Environmental lung diseases. Dr. Chima-Melton also serves as the Medical Director of Quality in the Department of Medicine, the Medical Director for Telehealth, and Assistant Clinical Professor, Division of Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine, for UCLA Health.

As a Medical Director for Telehealth and Quality at UCLA Health, she leads the strategic development and implementation of innovative telehealth programs and quality improvement initiatives across the organization. She oversees the quality of patient services within the department of medicine, implementing programs to ensure UCLA Health meets the highest clinical standards and best practices. In her current role, she collaborates with multidisciplinary teams of clinicians, administrators, researchers, and educators to design, evaluate, and scale telehealth solutions that address the evolving needs of a large healthcare system and the communities they serve. She is dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusivity in health care especially amongst patients with advanced lung diseases.

Andrea Wilson is a leading advocate for patients with sarcoidosis. She co-founded the Foundation for Sarcoidosis Research (FSR) in 2000 following her diagnosis with sarcoidosis with the goal to raise funds, facilitate research collaborations toward research and promote awareness to help sarcoidosis patients and their families and caregivers. During her more than 20 years with the organization she served as President and member of the Board of Directors, including Chairwoman. She has also served as a member of the American Thoracic Society’s Public Advisory Roundtable. She received the World Sarcoidosis Person of the Year Award in 2014.

Dr. Mavis W Billips, Medical Director of City of Angels Dermatology, is a skin cancer specialist, board-certified in dermatology by the American Board of Dermatology and has been serving the medical community for over 16 years. Dr. Billips is a graduate of Brown University School of Medicine, Harvard University’s School of Public Health and Tougaloo College. Dr. Billips completed her dermatology residency at King Drew Medical Center. She was also a board-certified pediatrician after completing her residency in Pediatrics at Children’s Hospital National Medical Center. Dr. Billips is a Diplomat of the American Board of Dermatology and a Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) and a member of the medical staff at Cedars Sinai Medical Center.

Dr. Billips specializes in general dermatology, dermatological surgery and preventative treatments of skin cancer, acne, eczema, treatment for rashes and vitiligo, shaving bumps, sun damaged skin and other disorders of the skin, hair and nails. Dr. Billips performs cosmetic dermatology and anti-aging procedures for wrinkles on the forehead, facial rejuvenation, skin discoloration and spider veins. Her treatments include Chemical Peels, Botox, Radiesse, Restylane, Microdermabrasion and Leg Vein Sclerotherapy.

Dr. Billips has written numerous articles for peer-reviewed publications on skin disorders including Acne, Psoriasis and Vitiligo. She conducts clinical research in the areas of Acne, Melasma and most recently Biologic Filler Agents. Dr. Billips speaks regularly at transplant centers and most recently presented to lung, heart, liver, and kidney/pancreas transplantation patients of the Comprehensive Transplant Center at Cedars Sinai Medical Center where she shared the significance of increasing skin cancer in transplant recipients and the tremendous problem of lack of information being supplied to transplant patients regarding the danger of post-transplant skin cancer.

Dr. C. Suzanne Cutter, is President of the Charles R. Drew Medical Society, the Los Angeles Affiliate of the National Medical Association and she is a Co-Moderator for the Meet the Black Doctors events in Los Angeles. Dr. Cutter delivers premium surgical oncology care using compassion and candor with an emphasis on empowering patients. As the founder of CUREtology Surgical Oncology and Associates, Dr. Cutter leaves no stone unturned when it comes to diagnosing and treating her patients in the Downtown Los Angeles area, giving them the tools they need to fight back against a cancer diagnosis. She is mentoring the next generation of health professionals and learning a fundraising campaign to raise money for medical student scholarships at the new Charles R. Drew University Medical School, the "HBCU of the West" as we like to say in Los Angeles.