Diane Perry
Diane Perry is the creative force behind Taylore’ Made Artistry & Designz, a graphic design and custom apparel company based in Crest Hill, IL. She is a proud graduate of Alabama State University, where she earned her B.S. in Business with a concentration in Computer Information Systems. She later went on to receive her M.S. in Management from Faulkner University in Montgomery, Alabama.
With more than two decades of experience, Diane has worked for several Fortune 500 companies in the Operations and IT Project Management fields. Known for her dedication, precision, and problem-solving mindset, she consistently strives for excellence in every challenge she takes on.
In 2014, Diane founded Taylore’ Made Artistry & Designz, starting with custom invitations, flyers, and party favors. Her creativity, versatility, and eye for detail quickly set her apart, eventually expanding her services to include custom t-shirts and apparel. Today, clients describe her as a visionary with a flawless approach to design; someone who can transform ideas into timeless creations.
Beyond her entrepreneurial endeavors, Diane is passionate about helping other business owners establish priorities and find balance between work and life. She leads by example, showing that what begins as a hobby can be nurtured into a thriving business with determination and heart.
When she’s not managing her company or excelling in her career as a Project Manager, Diane enjoys spending quality time with her family, traveling, and cheering on her favorite football teams.
https://linktr.ee/TayloreMadeArtistryandDesignz
TaJay White
TaJay White is a native of Jasper, Alabama, with a multifaceted career spanning law, real estate, community service, and the arts. She earned her B.S. in Criminal Justice with a minor in English from The Alabama State University in 2003 and went on to receive her Juris Doctorate from the Birmingham School of Law in 2007. In 2021, she expanded her professional portfolio by obtaining her real estate license.
TaJay currently works at Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP in Birmingham, Alabama, and is also a licensed Realtor® with Dreamtree Realty. She is an active member of both the Alabama State Bar Association and the Birmingham Association of Realtors. Dedicated to service and community engagement, TaJay is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and is deeply involved in her local community. She co-founded the Walker County Mass Choir and is an organizer of the annual Unity in the Community event in Jasper, Alabama. A woman of faith, she attends First United Baptist Church Wylam, where she also serves as the church musician.
In addition to her professional and community roles, TaJay is an entrepreneur and owner of White Lace Jewels, a jewelry business that reflects her passion for creativity and style.
She currently resides in Birmingham, Alabama.
Tierra Reed
Tierra Reed Ed. S, MBA is a proud HBCU advocate, a graduate of Alabama State University, and the founder of Inspire, Engage & Educate LLC. She is an education and business consultant who has dedicated 26 years of her life to educating adult and K-12 scholars. Tierra resides in Atlanta, GA, and is also a mom to a budding entertainer and an award-winning chef, as well as an educational advocate and entrepreneur, who is motivated to live her purpose. After a battle with breast cancer, she decided to fulfill a dream of developing a company that empowers entrepreneurs and educators. Tierra travels the country providing motivational speaking services to share her story and inspire others to celebrate their greatness and live in their passion.
Today, she partners with companies like Wasserman, Riddle & Bloom, Microsoft, Flip, NCCE, MSTS, WhatConverts, Robokind, Lexia Learning, and a host of universities, school districts, organizations, and schools to provide innovative solutions in both business and education. The Inspire, Engage & Educate team transforms, empowers, and supports clients by implementing lasting strategies that align with their goals. Tierra refers to her clients as “GOAL Friends”, people who are on a quest with her to Grow and Obtain an Abundant Life. Additionally, Tierra is an avid believer in the power of affirmations and lives by the motto “I’m Not Great By Mistake”. Her upcoming book, entitled “I’m Not Great By Mistake and Neither Are You,” will be released in 2026.
Major Warren Machion & Marilyn Sanders
Major Warren Machion Sanders is a decorated Army officer and seasoned cybersecurity leader whose career spans over two decades across military and civilian sectors. Holding a Master of Science in Management with a concentration in Information Systems Project Management, he currently serves as the Senior Manager of Cyber Supplier Risk Management at Raytheon Technologies. His expertise includes third-party cyber risk, infrastructure security, and risk mitigation strategies across Fortune 500 environments. Parallel to his professional success, MAJ Sanders has served with distinction in the U.S. Army Reserve for 20 years, holding command and staff roles at multiple echelons. He is a veteran of Operation New Dawn and was hand-selected for battalion-level command responsibilities within the Deployment Distribution Support Battalion (DDSB).
Marilyn Nicole Sanders holds a Bachelor’s degree in Math Education and a Master’s degree in educational leadership. She is a military wife and dedicated educator of 22 years serving as a math teacher, academic coach, and mentor to thousands of students in Alabama, Florida, and Michigan. Mrs. Sanders is now a retired educator and full-time entrepreneur serving as a Financial Planner and Wealth Empowerment Coach. Marilyn Sanders is the CEO of MN Consulting, LLC, specializing in financial literacy and self-empowerment workshops, as well as retirement planning, debt recovery, life insurance, and investing.
LaShaunda Garett Holly
With more than 20 years of communications, human resources, public relations, and workforce development experience in media, nonprofit, and manufacturing environments, LaShaunda Garrett Holly is BASF ECMS’s Human Resources Manager in Huntsville, Alabama.
Previously employed by Boise Inc., LaShaunda was the Communications Coordinator supporting the paper company in its marketing, communications, and public affairs commitments in the southeastern region of the United States. Her efforts maintainedBoise’s positive reputation and increased employee awareness of Boise Inc.’s safety, quality, operations, fiscal performance, and customer relations.
Before Boise, Inc., Holly worked for the Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce, serving as the Executive Director in Clarke County, Alabama. She championed the municipality’s marketing, small business development, junior leadership, workforce development, and quality of life initiatives. She developed and led the organization’s sponsorship campaign and fostered pertinent relationships with local, regional, state, and federal government representatives.
Before she worked for Boise, Inc., Holly held various positions in radio and television networks, promoting economic and community development.
She received her Master of Arts in Management and Leadership from Liberty University and a Bachelor of Arts in Communications/Political Science from Alabama State University. In addition to her degrees, she maintains the Economic and Community Development certification from Auburn University and a Nonprofit Management certification from the University of Georgia.
She is a native of Piedmont, Alabama, where she attended Piedmont High School. Her community involvement includes being a member of Pine Chapel Baptist Church, a graduate of Leadership Clarke County; Manufacture Alabama’s Human Resources Committee, Women in Manufacturing (Alabama Chapter), Calhoun Community College’s Co-Op Advisory Board, the Alabama Workforce Board, Dolly Parton Imagination Library Advisory Board, SAVANTS, Inc., Founder; and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
LaShaunda resides in Madison and splits her time in her husbands’ hometown of Jackson with their sons Kendarian, Lev Jr., and Garrison. Holly enjoys spending time with family and friends in her spare time, reading, and exploring hobbies. She is passionate about education initiatives, uplifting youth, and positively impacting their lives.
Erica Perkins
Erica Perkins is a servant leader and culture connoisseur with a healthy curiosity about the world in which she lives. She is clear on her purpose: to inspire, equip and impact within her sphere of influence.
Erica Perkins is a strategic executive leader with more than 20 years of experience driving growth, building alliances, and leading high-value partnerships across private, public, and nonprofit sectors. She recently founded Ruby Bagsby, a creative solutions agency leveraging technology to drive growth. In her previous role she served as Director of Account Management at the U.S. General Services Administration’s 18F, where she collaborated across disciplines to deliver technology transformation initiatives, ensured compliance, partner alignment, and measurable outcomes in federal modernization programs.
Erica’s career spans influential roles in media, government, and corporate sectors, where she consistently delivered transformative results. At iHeartMedia, she exceeded revenue goals, and drove digital adoption across regional markets. Earlier roles with Cumulus Media, Agent 16, and DraftFCB showcased her ability to lead cross-functional teams, launch integrated marketing strategies, and manage global campaigns.
Beyond her professional achievements, Erica is deeply committed to community leadership. She has served as President of the Africatown Community Development Corporation and the Forgive Clarence Aaron Campaign; organized initiatives such as Chick Chat, a girl’s empowerment series; and worked to provide children grooming services with Christmas Cuts for Kids.
Born in Mobile, Alabama, Erica is a graduate of Columbia University (M.S., Strategic Communications) and Alabama State University (B.A., Communications). Erica brings expertise, vision, and passion to every endeavor.
Erica is currently writing her memoir-meets-leadership book to share her lessons learned venturing into professional spaces.
Dr. TaShara Smith King
Dr. TaShara Smith King is an award-winning educator, transformational leader, and proud Alabama native with over 21 years of experience advancing academic achievement, leadership development, and school improvement. A two-time graduate of Alabama State University and doctorate holder from Auburn University in Educational Foundations, Leadership, and Technology, Dr. King has dedicated her career to empowering educators and transforming schools through innovative, equity-driven leadership.
She is the founder and CEO of Dr. King Inspires, a leadership and consulting brand that equips individuals, schools, and districts through coaching, strategic planning, and purpose-driven professional development. Through Dr. King Inspires, she partners with educational organizations to build thriving environments that address the whole child, strengthen school culture and climate, and maximize student achievement.
Known for her IV Leader Philosophy, Instructional & Visionary Leadership, Dr. King guides leaders in identifying their next steps for growth. Her INSPIRE Framework blends innovation, equity, resilience, and system-building, providing the foundation for lasting educational transformation. By implementing effective strategies to reduce discipline issues, improve teacher retention, and elevate school performance, she has consistently achieved measurable results. Most notably, she led a dramatic academic turnaround, raising a school’s state report card by 23 points in a single year (from an F to a C) and earning statewide recognition for student growth.
Dr. King has served in nearly every role in education, including paraeducator, teacher, coach, instructional coach, assistant principal, and principal, giving her a broad perspective of the challenges and opportunities within schools. She is a sought-after speaker and facilitator, having collaborated with state departments of education, coached school leaders, and presented internationally on leadership, resilience, culture, and character education.
Her leadership has been recognized through numerous honors, including being named to Alabama State University’s 50 Under 50 Distinguished Alumni (IX Class) and contributing as an author to The HBCU Experience: The Alabama State University Edition. She is also a graduate of The University of Alabama’s Superintendents’ Academy and a Hope Fellow through Samford University’s Hope Institute, where she continues to advance character education and hope-centered leadership.
At the core of her leadership is her belief that “people don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” She is deeply committed to building authentic relationships, uplifting others, and creating healthy, thriving environments for both students and educators.
Dr. King currently resides in Birmingham, Alabama, with her husband, Antonio V. King, Sr., a fellow Alabama State University alumnus, and their son, Antonio V. King, Jr. She lives by her personal mottos: “Be the Light” and “All is well,” reflecting her mission to honor her family and community by leading with purpose, hope, and inspiration.
Dr. Sheldon Cole McAfee
Dr. Sheldon Cole McAfee, aka Dr. Mac, has served as an elementary school principal, teacher, and consultant and college professor within St. Louis County for 22 years. His experience in the school has given him insight into what entertains young people. Sheldon was born and raised on the Southside of Chicago. The opportunities during his adolescence to participate in Gallery 57 and the Orisha Mosaic Art Project have all contributed to Sheldon’s creativity and why he centers equity and representation of people of color in his work.
Growing up in Chicago in the 1990s had its highs and lows. The Chicago Bulls were the World Champs 6 times, and police brutality and gang violence were ordinary events that happened daily. Sheldon escaped the Southside every day in a good book. Sheldon’s love for writing was sparked by his 7th and 8th-grade teacher, Mrs. Sheila McKeever. She identified Sheldon’s dyslexia and helped him manage it by writing stories to read aloud to her. Sheldon would continue writing well into and beyond college.
Sheldon received his undergraduate degree from the Alabama State University in Elementary Education. He wrote award-winning plays for his college classmates to perform. He wrote skits for other campus comedians and his fraternity brothers for step shows. In the classroom as a teacher and principal, this is where his creative juices really came alive. Sheldon wrote the Black History programs every year to make them exciting and relevant to the community he served. Sheldon would create rap songs as study guides for his students and pep rally mixers.
Dr. Mac lives in St. Louis County and has two children, Jasmine, 21, and Jeremiah, 15.
Sheldon’s commitment to literary greatness is rooted in his family of educators. He writes stories so his children, nieces, nephews, and baby cousins can see themselves in the pages. Sheldon has published three children’s books. “Everybody Came to Daddy Chuck’s Funeral” is a book to help children navigate grief and the loss of a loved one. “Mr. Wish” is the first modern-day American fairytale centering on children of color. Lastly, “ABC’s of Anti-racism” is an alphabet book to help teachers have courageous conversations with children to disrupt systemic oppression. He is currently working on a graphic novel series, “Shango: An American Hero” this series is about four African demigods reincarnated in recently freed slaves during the Civil War. All of his books can be found at www.drsheldoncmcafee.com
IG: @drsheldoncmcafee
Facebook: Sheldon McAfee, Ed.D
Twitter: @McAfee_dr
Tiktok: @drsheldoncmcafee
Dr. Lev Holly Sr.
Dr. Lev Holly Sr. Is a dedicated family man, educator, and a proud U.S. Army veteran. He is an Alabama State University alumnus, where he received his Bachelor of Social Work (B.S.W.) and Master of Education (M.Ed.) degree in Special Education (6-12). Dr. Holly received his Educational Specialist (Ed.S) and Educational Doctorate (Ed.D) in Educational Leadership from Liberty University. He is a life-long educator and youth advocate, currently serving as an academic supervisor for Physical Education, Health, and Assistant Director of Athletics Driver’s Education with the Mobile County Public School System in Mobile, Alabama. Dr. Holly has spent his career preparing young people for success beyond high school, whether in college, careers, or life.
Dr. Holly is the founder of the LAG Foundation, LLC, which provides mentoring, tutoring, and guidance programs for middle and high school students. His leadership has earned recognition from the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association and the Alabama High School Athletic Association, where he served as the president for the Alabama High School Athletic Director and Coaches Association for two years.
Dr. Lev Holly is a Fall 1999 initiate of the Beta Zeta Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. and an active member of the Prichard Alumni Chapter. Dr. Holly remains deeply connected to his community and his alma mater through the ASU National Alumni Association and Clarke County Alumni Chapter. He is a member of Alabama State University’s 50 Under 50, Class VII. He and his wife, Lashaunda Garrett-Holly, are proud parents of three sons: Kendarian, Lev Jr., and Garrison, which continued the family legacy at Alabama State University.
Dr. Freddie Williams, Jr.
Dr. Freddie Williams, Jr. serves as the Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management (SAEM) at Alabama State University (ASU), where he provides executive leadership for Admissions, Recruitment, and New Student Services.
Dr. Williams returned to ASU in 2018 for his second tenure as Director of Admissions & Recruitment, following impactful service at H. Councill Trenholm State Community College, where he oversaw college counseling, placement testing, disability services, student organizations, new student advising, and registration, while also serving as second in command of the Student Services Division. In 2019, he was appointed Interim AVP for SAEM, and shortly thereafter promoted to Assistant Vice President.
His career reflects more than 20 years of leadership in higher education. He previously served ASU as Director of Admissions & Recruitment (2011–2014), Admissions Recruiter (1998–2004), and taught Adult Education at Trenholm State, where he also worked as a recruiter (2007–2011). Additionally, Dr. Williams served as a Magistrate for the City of Montgomery from 2004 to 2007, further demonstrating his commitment to service and community.
A proud three-time graduate of Alabama State University, Dr. Williams holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree, as well as a Doctorate in Educational Leadership, Policy, and Law.
Beyond his professional work, Dr. Williams is a deacon at Fresh Anointing House of Worshipin Montgomery, AL. He is a Life Member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., a Master Mason, and an honorary member of Kappa Kappa Psi Band Fraternity, Epsilon Gamma Chapter. He is married to the former Melinda Calhoun, and together they are the proud parents of an 18-year-old daughter, Miss Zion Michelle.
Dr. Alicia A. Williams
Dr. Alicia A. Williams is a powerhouse Entrepreneur, 5x Published Author, Motivational Speaker, Style/Etiquette Coach, and renowned Transformation & Empowerment Coach who turned purpose into power after spending over 15 years in secondary and higher education. She made history as the first African American Elite Leader in her network marketing organization leading over 124,000 individuals and blazing a trail for women of color in leadership and entrepreneurship. As the visionary founder of Alicia EmpowersHER and Executive Producer and Co-host of the EmpowHer Moments Morning Show, Dr. Alicia is on a mission to equip women around the world to rise in bold faith, lead with unshakable purpose, and activate the power within.
Her most celebrated book, *Dear Sis*, has become a movement, one that challenges women to confront their truth, walk in their worth, and rewrite their stories with confidence and courage. Her voice and work have earned her numerous honors including the 2024 President’s Lifetime Achievement Award, ACHI Magazine Entrepreneur of the Year, Woman On Fire, Alabama State University’s 2023 50 Under 50 Class, and the distinction of being a 8x Multi Six-Figure Earner to name a few. She has been featured on the international and national covers of SHEEN Magazine, Majority Greek Magazine, Southern Crescent Women in Business and more as a shining example of excellence, grace, and unstoppable faith.
Dr. Alicia’s impact extends far beyond accolades. She is deeply committed to service and sisterhood as an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., a Board Member of Majority Greek, ACE Honors Board Member, and a proud sponsor of the Niños de Cristo Foundation helping to empower vulnerable children and communities.
Originally from Mobile, Alabama, Dr. Alicia now resides in the suburbs of Atlanta with her husband, Bryan, and their three incredible children: Katelyn, Bryan Jr., and Jordan. She holds degrees from Central Michigan University and Alabama State University. Whether she’s speaking on national stages, coaching women to rediscover their power, or simply living out her faith with boldness and integrity—Dr. Alicia A. Williams is a force of purpose, a vessel of transformation, and a voice for women ready to rise.