Washington, D.C. –The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) continues to fortify its mission to advance the global Black community by announcing the appointment of exceptional leaders to its Board of Directors and Corporate Advisory Council (CAC). With unwavering dedication to fostering positive change and bolstering the commitment to building future leaders and influencing inclusive policies, the newly appointed board and council members are poised to contribute their talents and expertise towards advancing the CBCF’s mission.

Representative Terri A. Sewell, Chair of the CBCF Board of Directors, emphasized their presence as paramount to the success and sustainability of the organization. “In embracing the combined executive experience of our new board and CAC members, we open doors to innovative approaches in advancing our cause,” said Sewell. “They serve as guardians of the mission, and their leadership reminds us of our collective power as we chart a course towards a brighter and more equitable future for the Black community.”

The incoming cohort aligns seamlessly with the CBCF’s mission, possessing a proven dedication to serving and investing in initiatives aimed at dismantling barriers and eradicating disparities within the global Black community. Hailing from diverse backgrounds and boasting expertise across various industries, these individuals are eager to contribute to the CBCF’s vision for the future.

Nicole Austin-Hillery, President and CEO of CBCF, underscored the evolving composition of the board and council, reflecting a commitment to creating meaningful change for Black communities. “As the CBCF Board and CAC continues to evolve, so does their ability to effectively serve our community,” remarked Austin-Hillery. “These individuals bring a wealth of perspectives, well-documented expertise, and an unwavering commitment to propel the global Black community forward through visionary leadership, impactful public policy, and the empowerment fostered by education. We are grateful for their service.”

The new board members who began three-year terms on May 6, 2024, are:

• Courtney L. Billington, Head of Government Affairs, North America, Johnson & Johnson
• Dale Burnet, Co-Founder and Managing Director, BIG Equity Investors, LLC
• Noni L. Ellison, Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary, Tractor Supply Company
• Felicia Hale, Chief of Staff, North America Operating Unit, Coca Cola Company
• Marty Rodgers, U.S. South Market Unit Lead, Accenture

The Corporate Advisory Council members began their three-year terms on May 6, 2024, and are as follows:

• Patrick Edmond, Director, Federal Affairs, CSX Transportation
• Dr. Alveda Williams, Chief Inclusion Officer, Dow

New Board Member Biographies

Courtney L. Billington, as Head of Government Affairs for North America at Johnson & Johnson (J&J), champions policies advancing equitable access to innovative healthcare solutions. Leading J&J’s Washington, D.C. office, he shapes federal and state government affairs across the U.S. and Canada. With over two decades at J&J, Courtney has spearheaded transformative initiatives, ensuring healthcare accessibility and addressing patient needs. Previously, as President of Janssen Neuroscience in the US, he delivered innovative treatments for serious mental illnesses. A US Military Academy graduate, Courtney served as a Quartermaster Officer in the U.S. Army, fostering a lifelong commitment to veterans’ causes. He actively supports organizations like the United Services Organization (USO) and the Cohen Veterans Network (CVN), serving on their boards. Committed to community service, Courtney focuses on mental health advocacy and mentorship. He participates in the Health Equity Brain Trust and serves in leadership roles at the Executive Leadership Council, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and the Mu Boule Foundation.

Dale Burnet is a seasoned real estate investment professional with a track record of overseeing over $14 billion in real estate equity investments worldwide. With extensive experience in acquisitions, restructuring, and asset management across the U.S., Europe, and Asia, he has executed joint venture investments across major real estate asset classes. Currently, as Co-founder and Managing Director of BIG Equity Investors LLC, a minority-owned investment management platform, Dale leads strategy formulation, sourcing, and acquisitions, also contributing to the firm’s investment and ESG committees. Previously, he led real estate equity investment operations for Assurant’s $13 billion asset management group and co-founded their third-party investment management platform. Dale’s career also includes senior roles at AIG’s Global Real Estate Investment practice and providing advisory services to Blackstone. Actively engaged in both professional and community roles, he serves on various public and private boards and is dedicated to ministry in his local church. Dale holds a bachelor’s in finance from Boston University and an MBA from Dartmouth’s Tuck School of Business, where he was a Robert Toigo Fellow.

Noni Ellison currently serves as Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary for Tractor Supply Company, a publicly traded $24 billion market cap retail company. She has extensive management and business experience in legal, compliance, quality assurance, regulatory affairs, M&A, risk management, sustainability, corporate finance, and governance. Formerly, she served as General Counsel at Carestream Dental overseeing legal and business functions across North and South America, Asia, and Europe; as Associate General Counsel and Assistant Corporate Secretary at Grainger; managed licensing, marketing, and intellectual property matters at Turner Broadcasting Systems, Inc.; and as Director of Legal Affairs at Scripps Networks. Ellison has been recognized for her work by The Legal 500 GC Power List, as one of the nation’s Top Corporate Counsel Women by Women Inc., and by the YWCA of Greater Atlanta as a Woman of Achievement. Ellison holds a Bachelor of Arts from Howard University, magna cum laude, and earned her law degree and MBA from the University of Chicago.

Felicia Hale is the Chief of Staff for the North America Operating Unit at The Coca-Cola Company, where she spearheads strategic planning and long-term growth initiatives. With extensive experience within the company, Felicia previously led the Equipment Strategy and served as General Manager for the Freestyle business, managing a $1B P&L and driving long-term beverage equipment solutions. Prior roles encompassed various Commercial and Operations positions, contributing to the launch of Sparkling brand extensions and revenue growth. Before joining Coca-Cola, Felicia held roles at Georgia Pacific, Novartis, and General Mills, specializing in sales, marketing, and operations. She also serves on the Alumni board of directors for the University of Miami. Felicia holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing from The University of Miami.

Marty Rodgers serves as Accenture’s market unit lead for the US South with a focus on driving financial performance and solving complex problems, he prioritizes innovation, talent retention, and community impact. Marty is a member of Accenture’s Global Management Committee, North America Leadership Team, and serves as office managing director for the Washington, D.C. Metro Area. With over 20 years at Accenture, he previously led the Health & Public Service business in the Southeast and initiated the Nonprofit Practice. Marty’s commitment to social responsibility is evident through his advocacy for inclusion and diversity, as seen in his leadership of Accenture’s African American Employee Resource Group and efforts in recruiting from historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs). Actively engaged in his community, Marty serves on numerous local and national boards, holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Notre Dame and an MBA from Harvard University, and serves on the Board of Trustees and Board of Fellows at the University of Notre Dame.

New Corporate Advisory Council Member Biographies

Patrick Edmond, currently serving as Director of Federal Affairs for CSX Transportation, brings a diverse background to his role, contributing to a company that covers 23 states, serving two-thirds of the American population. With 13 years of experience at Amtrak as Director of Government Affairs, Patrick successfully navigated the development of two 5-year reauthorization bills through Congress, gaining valuable insight into balanced policy initiatives. Previously, he held roles in education as Director of Government Affairs for the District of Columbia Public Schools. Patrick’s career was forged during his 10 years on Capitol Hill, working for Representatives Peter Peterson, the late Carrie Meek, and the late Stephanie Tubbs Jones, instilling in him a deep understanding of the legislative process and the importance of coalition-building. Patrick is a proud graduate of Florida A&M University.

Dr. Alveda Williams serves as the Chief Inclusion Officer at Dow, where she drives the company’s commitment to inclusion, diversity, and equity, fostering long-term growth and business success. With over 20 years at Dow, she has held various leadership positions, including Corporate Director of Inclusion and Senior HR Director for Talent Acquisition. Alveda has spearheaded Dow’s global inclusion and diversity strategy, ensuring fair talent acquisition processes and embedding inclusion into the employee experience. Her initiatives have led Dow to notable achievements, including ranking #7 on the Fair360 Top 50 list and recognition on the Great Place to Work® and Fortune World’s Best Workplaces list. Alveda is a champion for under-represented minority talent, creating programs like Dow’s Building Engineering & Science Talent (BEST) Symposium. She holds a Bachelor of Science from Norfolk State University, a Ph.D. from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and serves on multiple boards, earning accolades such as the NSBE Golden Torch Award and the i4CP’s Board Member of the Year Award.

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Washington, D.C., May 22, 2023 – Today, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. (CBCF) announced the election of 16 new members to its Board of Directors and Corporate Advisory Council (CAC). Each new member brings a unique perspective, documented expertise, and the same unyielding drive to advance the global Black community through leadership, policy, and empowerment through education.

“In welcoming new and diverse voices to our board and CAC this year, we also usher in new opportunities to meet our mission,” said Representative Terri A. Sewell, chair, CBCF Board of Directors. “I am grateful for their leadership, inspired by their service, and excited for our future. It is in partnership with others that we can pool our resources, knowledge, and expertise to achieve our goals and deliver a brighter future for the Black community.”

New members this year are aligned with the CBCF mission and have a demonstrated capacity to serve and invest time and resources towards a vision that breaks down barriers and eliminates disparities within the global Black community. They have diverse backgrounds, a broad range of knowledge and expertise in a range of industries and are energized to begin working on the CBCF vision for the future.

“As CBCF’s Board continues to serve and support our work, its membership is developing in diversity of backgrounds and skills to reflect the organization and those being served,” said Nicole Austin-Hillery, president and CEO of CBCF. “With every new member, we not only advance our mission, but our capacity to evolve and serve is heightened.”

With the election of new board and CAC members, former Congressman Cedric Richmond transitions to Director Emeritus.

The new board members who began three-year terms on May 9, 2023, are:

• Representative Frederica S. Wilson, (D-FL-24^th District), U.S. House of Representatives
• Representative Joyce Beatty, (D-OH-3^rd District), U.S. House of Representatives
• Representative Lucy McBath, (D-GA-7^th District), U.S. House of Representatives
• Representative Glenn Ivey, (D-MD-4^th District), U.S. House of Representatives
• Isaac Fordjour, Vice President of Federal Government Relations, Walgreens
• Alethia Jackson, Senior Vice President, ESG and Chief DEI officer, Walgreens Boots Alliance
• Nichole Francis Reynolds, Esq., Vice President & Head of Global Government Relations, ServiceNow

The Corporate Advisory Council members began their three-year terms on May 9, 2023, and are as follows:

• Sanders Adu, Senior Vice President, Federal Government Relations, Wells Fargo & Company
• Lakeitha Anderson, Policy Director, Brownstein, Hyatt, Farber & Schreck
• Kevin Armstrong, Distinguished Practitioner in Residence, Mitchell Hamline School of Law
• Tristan R. Breaux, Director of Federal Affairs, Tyson Foods
• Kwame Canty, Senior Director of External Affairs, Edison Electric Institute
• Cachavious English, Policy Strategist and Managing Counsel, Ford Motor Company
• Phil A. Hancock, Director, Government Relations, Norfolk Southern Railroad
• Francesca Jordan, Director of Federal Government Affairs, Dell
• Ashli Nelson, Director of Government Relations, Community Engagement, and Public Affairs, McDonald’s North American Division
• Marie Ray Scott, Owner, M.R. Whitsett, Inc.
• Charlyn Stanberry, Vice President of Government Relations, National Association of Broadcasters
• Lamell McMorris, Head of Policy-Regulatory and Government Relations, Edward Jones

Director Emeritus Biography

Former Representative Cedric Richmond is Founder and Principle of Richmond & Company. Born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, former Congressman Richmond was elected to the state legislature at age 26. He moved on to a U.S. congressional seat in 2011, eventually joining the House Judiciary and Ways and Means committees and becoming chair of the Congressional Black Caucus. After co-chairing Joe Biden’s successful 2020 presidential campaign, he was appointed senior adviser to the president-elect and director of the White House Office of Public Engagement.

New Board Member Biographies

Representative Frederica S. Wilson proudly represents Florida’s 24th Congressional District. Representative Wilson currently serves as the Chair of the Higher Education and Workforce Subcommittee and introduced the American Jobs Act of 2013, an innovative bill that promotes full employment and boosts workforce development opportunities. Most recently, she introduced the Lowering Obstacles to Achievement (LOAN) Act of Rights to repair a flawed student loan system and address the core issues that created the student debt crisis. In 2020, Congresswoman Wilson established the Commission on the Social Status of Black Men and Boys (CSSBMB) within the United States Commission on Civil Rights to investigate potential civil rights violations affecting black males and study the disparities they experience in education, criminal justice, health, employment, fatherhood, mentorship, and violence.

Representative Joyce Beatty has represented Ohio’s 3rd Congressional District since 2013. She serves on the House Committee on Financial Services and is a member of two Subcommittees: Housing and Insurance and Oversight and Investigations. She has introduced important legislation to end human trafficking, to improve financial literacy, and protect consumers’ credit. She recently introduced legislation to enable small businesses to purchase, rehabilitate, or operate affordable housing units. Before Congress, Beatty was Senior Vice President of Outreach and Engagement at The Ohio State University and a member of the Ohio House of Representatives for five terms. During her tenure in the Ohio House, she rose to become the first female Democratic House Leader in Ohio’s history. Beatty earned a bachelor’s degree from Central State University and a master’s degree from Wright State University. She completed all requirements but her dissertation for a doctorate at the University of Cincinnati.

Representative Lucy McBath represents Georgia’s 7^th District and proclaims her most important title is “Jordan’s Mom.” In 2012, her son Jordan Davis was a victim of senseless gun violence. After a 30-year career as a flight attendant, Representative McBath began demanding more be done to end gun violence in America. She traveled across the country rallying activists, lawmakers, and parents and after the tragic shooting in Parkland, Florida, she ran against an NRA-backed incumbent and won. In Congress she focuses on expanding access to healthcare, protecting voting rights, and keeping families safe. She has worked on numerous pieces of gun reform legislation, including the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act–the first major gun reform bill in a generation. She is a proud HBCU graduate and a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. She received her B.A. in political science from Virginia State University and resides in Metro-Atlanta with her husband Curtis and their dog, Harley.

Representative Glenn Ivey currently represents Maryland’s 4th District and served twice as the state’s attorney for Prince George’s County, Maryland, from 2002 to 2011.  Representative Ivey previously served on Capitol Hill as chief counsel to Senate majority leader Tom Daschle, as counsel to U.S. senator Paul Sarbanes during the Whitewater controversy, as chief majority counsel to the Senate Banking Committee, and on the staff of U.S. representative John Conyers. He also worked for U.S. attorney Eric Holder as an assistant U.S. attorney and as chair of the Maryland Public Service Commission. He was twice elected state’s attorney for Prince George’s County, Maryland.  Representative Ivey is a graduate of Princeton University and Harvard Law School.

Isaac Fordjour is an accomplished government relations and public affairs strategist with extensive experience in advancing public policy, developing effective legislative and regulatory strategies, and building diverse coalitions. As Vice President of Federal Government Relations for Walgreens, Isaac leads the company’s federal advocacy and oversees interactions with Congress, the Administration, and U.S. government agencies. Before joining Walgreens, Isaac served as Director of Federal Government Affairs and Health Policy at Boston Scientific, a leading medical technology company. He also worked as a Principal at Tarplin Downs & Young LLC, a top government relations firm, where he advised clients on a range of issues and managed high-stakes advocacy campaigns.

Alethia Jackson is Senior Vice President, ESG and Chief DEI Officer for Walgreens Boots Alliance. In this role, Alethia leads a combined team of U.S. Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and Corporate Social Responsibility, including health equity, environmental and product sustainability, and community giving. She is a highly experienced government relations executive with 20 years of success with Walgreens, America’s Health Insurance Plans, and National Association of Insurance Commissioners. Alethia is passionate about empowering young women through leadership development and is a member of the board of Running Start, Inc., a nonpartisan nonprofit that trains young women to run for public office. She holds a J.D. from Syracuse University School of Law and a B.A. from State University of New York at Albany.

Nichole Francis Reynolds serves as the Vice President & Head of Global Government Relations for ServiceNow, Inc. In her role, she leads Service Now’s global government relations, public policy, and advocacy agenda domestically and internationally. As a lawyer and the company’s top lobbyist, she works with Administration officials, members of Congress, state and local public officials, the diplomatic community and industry associations on domestic and international technology policy issues. Ms. Francis Reynolds graduated cum laude and with honors with a B.S. in Political Science and Spanish from Eastern Michigan University and received her law degree from The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and resides in Washington, DC, with her husband and their two children. 

New Corporate Advisory Council Member Biographies

Sanders Adu is Senior Vice President of Federal Government Relations at Wells Fargo specializing in payments, technology, fintech, cybersecurity, consumer lending and retail banking issues. He also serves on Wells Fargo’s Diverse Segments Representation & Inclusion (DSRI) External Engagements team where he manages key third-party relationships with national policy stakeholders. Prior to joining Wells Fargo, Sanders served as senior counsel to Congressman Mel Watt (D-NC) on the U.S. House Financial Services Committee where he worked on the landmark Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection legislation. Before Capitol Hill, Sanders was an attorney in private practice. He received his B.A. in Public Policy from Duke University and his JD from the University of California-Berkeley School of Law.

LaKeitha Anderson is Policy Director at Brownstein, Hyatt, Farber & Schreck where she guides companies in highly regulated industries through local, state and federal policy arenas. She skillfully blends communications and advocacy strategies to protect brands and position her clients for success in Washington, D.C. Her prior work includes managing government relations for RAI Services Co. where she was responsible for advancing the corporation’s legislative objectives before Members of Congress, the Administration, and other policy makers. She is a native Texan who began her career as a Legislative Assistant for Texas State Representative Helen Giddings. In addition to being a graduate of the University of North Texas, LaKeitha has an Executive MBA from Georgetown University and is an active member of The Links and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.

Kevin Armstrong is a private company advisor and board director with expertise in financial services law, technology, and corporate governance. As a Distinguished Practitioner in Residence at Mitchell Hamline School of Law, Kevin advises students and lectures on the application of the law to transformative technologies. He has distinguished himself across multiple industries, having served as Chief Legal Officer, General Counsel, and Chief Compliance Officer in financial services and technology companies. Most recently, Kevin served as General Counsel and Chief Legal Officer at Docupace Technologies. He is an advisor and board member at NeuroColor LLC and a frequent speaker on topics concerning securities law, compliance, privacy, data security, and public policy. Kevin earned a JD and BS from Rutgers University.

Tristan R. Breaux is Director of Federal Affairs for Tyson Foods, applying his significant experience in community advocacy, legislative policy development, and corporate government affairs to the world’s second largest processor and marketer of poultry and protein. Prior to joining Tyson Foods, Tristan served as Vice President of Policy & Advocacy for the National Housing Conference and worked as a multi-client lobbyist. He began his career as an aide to former Chairman of the House Budget Committee, Rep. John Spratt (D-SC). Tristan holds a B.A. in Political Science from Norfolk State University and an MS in Criminal Justice Administration from Liberty University. He is a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated, and resides in Maryland with his wife and two daughters.

Kwame Canty is the Senior Director of External Affairs at Edison Electric Institute (EEI), an association that represents all U.S. investor-owned electric companies. In his capacity, Kwame works on outreach and education efforts to Capitol Hill, state legislators, mayors, national policy organizations, community-based organizations, and other key industry stakeholders. Prior to joining EEI, Kwame was Director of Programming for the Congressional Black Caucus responsible for CBC member services and task forces. He has also served as Senior Legislative Assistant for Congressman Edolphus Towns and lead staffer on the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Consumer, Manufacturing, and Trade. Kwame is a graduate of Hampton University and is a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated.

Cachavious “Chay” English currently serves as Policy Strategist and Managing Counsel for Ford Motor Company, focusing primarily on policies related to trade, supply chain resiliency, critical minerals, ESG, and tax and economic incentives. He previously served as a Vice President at BGR Group, and as Chief of Staff for Rep. Terri Sewell (D-AL) managing staff, advising on issues, and implementing legislative strategies. Originally from Selma, Alabama, Chay earned his B.A. from University of Michigan, Ann Arbor and his JD from the University of Alabama School of Law.

Phil A. Hancock serves as a directoron Norfolk Southern Railroad’s government relations team where he engages with federal policymakers on the importance of freight rail to the nation’s economy and the communities they serve. Phil previously served in the office of Senator Joe Manchin III (D-WV) as a legislative assistant advancing priorities for coal miners, their families, and rural development. Prior to his work on Capitol Hill, he spent nearly a decade at Amtrak as a intergovernmental affairs specialist until he was elected as the railroad’s senior assistant corporate secretary by its board of directors. Phil earned a JD from Northeastern University School of Law, an MS in Human Resource Management from West Virginia University, and a B.A. in Political Science from West Virginia Wesleyan College.

Francesca Jordan is currently the Director of Federal Government Affairs for Dell Technologies. Prior to joining Dell Francesca was a Senior Vice-President at Forbes-Tate Partners where she led strategy, and advocacy for a variety of clients in the government relations field, consulting on healthcare, technology, and oversight policy areas. Prior to joining Forbes Tate Partners, Francesca, a Maryland native, worked on Capitol Hill on the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, for Ranking Member Elijah E. Cummings. Francesca also serves on the board of the Washington Government Relations Group Foundation, College to Congress, and the Black Women’s Congressional Alliance. She graduated with honors from The Citadel – The Military College of South Carolina and has a master’s in public health from American Public University.

Edward Jones Principal Lamell McMorris leads the Regulatory and Government Relations practice as Head of Policy. His team implements an enterprise-wide policy capability, through which the firm can develop and drive an affirmative, intentional policy strategy, designed to proactively surface a wide range of policy and legislative issues. He joined the firm in 2021.

​Prior to Edward Jones, Lamell served as CEO and founder of Washington, D.C.- based consulting firm, Phase 2 Consulting. It is one of D.C.’s top strategic advisory firms, providing expertise for government affairs, corporate social responsibility planning and public policy advice.

Lamell received his bachelor’s degree from Morehouse College in Atlanta, Ga., and his Master of Divinity degree from Princeton Theological Seminary, and his Doctor of Law and Policy degree from Northeastern University.

Ashli Nelson serves as Director of Government Relations, Community Engagement, and Public Affairs for the McDonald’s Corporation North American Division where she leads a national legislative and community relations strategy to ensure that government relations, communications, and diversity and inclusion are respectively aligned to protect and promote and McDonald’s brand and its independent franchisees. Prior to joining McDonald’s Corporation, Ashli served as a senior advisor to Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Mayor Daley. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and Target Hope, and a native of South Side Chicago currently residing in the South Shore neighborhood with her husband.

Marie Ray Scott is the owner of M.R. Whitsett, Inc., a minority-owned business operating concessions at Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas, Nevada. Marie also continues to demonstrate a commitment to the southern Nevada community as a volunteer with the Salvation Army of Southern Nevada, the Las Vegas Clark County Urban League, and the Las Vegas chapter of The Girl Friends, Inc. She was the recipient of the Madam C.J. Walker Business and Community Recognition Award from the National Coalition of 100 Black Women and the Distinguished Honoree Award from the Las Vegas Urban Chamber of Commerce.

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Yolanda Raine
Vice President, Marketing and Communications
yraine@cbcfinc.org
202-263-2804

Washington, D.C., July 12, 2022 – Today, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. (CBCF) announced the election of 22 members to its board of directors and Corporate Advisory Council (CAC). The new members join CBCF at a pivotal moment and will help support CBCF’s work to advance the global Black community by developing leaders, informing policy, and educating the public.

“As CBCF continues to evolve, we are excited to welcome diverse new voices to our board and to the CAC,” said Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell, chair, CBCF Board of Directors. “I am sincerely grateful to the board and the CAC for their service and leadership. I look forward to working in partnership with new and current members to advance our mission and the Black community.”

The new members bring a wide array of diverse backgrounds and expertise in a variety of fields spanning government affairs, Fortune 500 companies, and more. Each member has demonstrated a willingness to invest their time, energy, and resources in helping the CBCF achieve its vision of eliminating disparities within the global Black community.

“CBCF is honored and privileged to have these accomplished individuals on our Board of Directors and CAC,” said Nicole Austin-Hillery, president and CEO of CBCF. “We are excited to have their unique and diverse perspectives supporting our work and advancing our mission.”

 The new board members who began three-year terms on May 5, 2022, are:

• Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett, (D-VI-01), U.S. Congress
• Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr., (D-LA 2nd District), U.S. Congress
• Chaka Burgess, Chief Executive Officer, Nation Strategies
• LaDavia Drane, Global Head of Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity, Amazon Web Services
• Pamela Everhart, Head of Regional Public Affairs and Community Relations, Fidelity
• Quita Highsmith, Chief Diversity Officer, Global Executive Leader, Genentech
• Broderick Johnson, Executive Vice President, Public Policy and Digital Equity, Comcast Corporation
• John Mason, Senior Director of Government Affairs, Altria Client Services Inc., ex-officio
• Marcus Sebastian Mason, Senior Partner, The Madison Group LLC
• Dontai Smalls, Vice President of Global Public Affairs, UPS
• Jessica Zielke, Group Director of Federal and Diplomatic Government Relations, Coca-Cola Company

The Corporate Advisory Council members began their three-year terms on May 5, 2022, are as follows:

• John Mason, Senior Director of Government Affairs, Altria Client Services Inc. has been appointed chair effective May 5, 2022
• Benjamin Branch, Vice President of Federal Government Affairs, International Franchise Association (IFA)
• Zoe Cadore, Director of Government & Regulatory Affairs, Calpine Corporation
• Heather Foster, Head of National Policy, Lyft, Inc
• Ashley Hayes, Vice President of Government Affairs, Charter Communications
• Edward W. Hill, Vice President, ViacomCBS
• Cory C. Horton, Vice President of Public Affairs, Taft Advisors
• Jackie Kelly, Jr., Senior Federal Affairs, FedEx Corporation
• Adrienne Marks, Political Advocacy and Civic Engagement Programs, VISA
• Virgil Miller, Senior Policy Advisor, Akin Group
• Keenan-Austin Reed, Vice President, Alpine Group
• Ibn Salaam, Director of Federal Legislative Affairs, Waste Management, Inc.
• ShaShrina Thomas, Senior Director, Reynolds American Inc.

New Board Member Biographies

• Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett represents the United States Virgin Islands’ at-large Congressional District in the United States House of Representatives. She is currently serving her fourth term in Congress. For the 117th Congress, the members of the House Steering and Policy Committee unanimously appointed Congresswoman Plaskett to serve on the House Committee on Ways and Means, the oldest and one of the most exclusive committees in Congress. In true historic fashion, Mrs. Plaskett is the first Member from a U.S. territory and the fourth African American woman to serve on this committee.

• Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. is serving in his first term as the Congressman from Louisiana’s 2nd Congressional District, encompassing most of New Orleans, Jefferson Parish, and River Parishes including St. Charles, St. James, St. John the Baptist, Ascension, Assumption, Iberville, as well as portions of East Baton Rouge and West Baton Rouge Parish. Congressman Carter currently serves on two House Committees, the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, one of the largest committees in Congress that has jurisdiction over all modes of transportation, and the Small Business Committee, which has direct oversight and consideration over all matters affecting America’s backbone, small businesses.

• Chaka Burgess is a veteran government affairs professional with more than twenty years of experience leading and managing government and public affairs for Fortune 500 companies, trade associations, and nonprofit organizations. As chief executive officer of Nation Strategies, Chaka leads the development of multidisciplinary government and public affairs strategies, with an emphasis on coalition building, securing key legislative champions, and stakeholder engagement.

• LaDavia Drane is a bridge between the worlds of technology and inclusion, diversity, and equity. Leveraging technology for good, in ways both big and small, and with a global impact is her personal and professional mission. LaDavia lives out her mission, daily, as the global head of inclusion, diversity, and equity for Amazon Web Services. Prior to this role, she served as the U.S. public policy head of diversity & inclusion for Amazon.

• Pamela Everhart is a senior vice president and head of regional public affairs and community relations in Fidelity’s Communications, Public Affairs and Policy Group. In this role, Pamela oversees the firm’s state and local government relationships, public affairs, and community relations activities at its Boston Headquarters and across Fidelity’s regions in the U.S. Pamela has led Fidelity’s efforts to deliver financial literary to hundreds of thousands of students in underserved communities in the regions where Fidelity has a footprint.

• Quita Highsmith is an award-winning chief diversity officer and a global executive leader. She is a visionary skilled at realizing potential through demonstrated ability to anticipate trends, unlock strategic opportunities and generate long-term value. At Genentech ($25B+ Revenue), Quita was selected as the first chief diversity officer in the 46-year history of the company and reports to the CEO. She is responsible for enterprise-wide strategic initiatives that drive business impact by investing in commercial efforts, stakeholder engagement, research innovation and providing guidance to the Genentech Board of Directors.

• Broderick Johnson is the EVP, Public Policy & EVP, Digital Equity for Comcast Corporation. Broderick oversees the company’s Public Policy team and holds overall responsibility for Comcast’s role in the digital equity space. Comcast is a leader in solutions to bridge the digital divide, and Broderick works closely with our partners in government and other stakeholders to support our shared goal of connecting as many Americans as possible to the Internet, and to shape our corporate policies that allow our businesses to continue to grow and innovate.

• Marcus Sebastian Mason is senior partner at The Madison Group, LLC (TMG) with offices in Los Angeles and Washington, DC. Marcus served as an advisor to both campaigns of President Barack Obama and as an advisor to the Obama-Biden White House. Most recently, Marcus served as the chairman of the Biden Campaign’s African American Leadership Finance Council and serves as senior advisor to the Campaign’s co-chairman and senior leadership team.

• Dontai Smalls joined the UPS Global Public Affairs function in the Washington, DC office in October 1999. He coordinates all international issues on Capitol Hill for UPS, particularly global trade and customs modernization policy. He also coordinates UPS’ global aviation portfolio in DC. He is responsible in Washington for managing the relationships between UPS and Europe, including the embassies.

• Jessica Zielke is the group director of federal and diplomatic government relations for The Coca-Cola Company in their Washington, D.C. Government Affairs office managing all Federal outreach and engagement for the company. A member of the Coca-Cola family since 2018, Jessica joined after serving as the general manager of events with Government Executive Media Group (Atlantic Media). From 2009-2017 Ms. Zielke was the assistant chief of protocol for Ceremonials at the U.S. Department of State under the administration of President Barack Obama.

New CAC Member Biographies

• Benjamin Branch is vice president of federal government affairs for the International Franchise Association (IFA) where he is responsible for leading advocacy and legislative strategy at the federal level to advance IFA’s policy priorities. He brings over 18 years of legislative, political and public policy expertise. Prior to joining IFA, he was the Director of Government Affairs for JUUL Labs. He previously served as the former executive director of the Congressional Black Caucus PAC and as Legislative Director for Congressman Gregory Meeks from New York. A native Virginian, he graduated from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, VA with a degree in Political Science.

• Zoe Cadore is the director of government & regulatory affairs at Calpine Corporation, America’s largest generator of electricity from natural gas and geothermal resources. In this role, she leads Calpine’s federal affairs advocacy and policy in Washington, D.C.

• Heather Foster is a political thought leader and subject matter expert on how racial equity. She currently leads national policy at Lyft, Inc where she manages the team’s leading federal relations, strategic partnerships and policy coalitions. She has built a political career that has included grassroots organizing, political strategy and policy engagement for over two decades. Most recently serving on the transition team for the Biden-Harris administration. Heather served in the Obama administration as White House Public Engagement Adviser to President Obama overseeing his engagement efforts around key public policy issues including healthcare, immigration and economic mobility with elected and community leaders.
  
  
• Ashley Hayes is the vice president of government affairs at Charter Communications. She is responsible for leading strategic policy and political engagement around Charter’s efforts to close the digital divide, create jobs, and deliver industry-leading telecommunications services to customers from coast to coast. Previously, Hayes advocated on a myriad of health policy and regulatory issues to the U.S. Congress and White House for global life sciences company, Sanofi. A Texas native, Hayes began her policy career in the office of Congressman Marc Veasey (D-TX), where she served as Legislative Director and Senior Policy Advisor managing his legislative team and directing policy and political strategy. She has also worked as Senior Director of Federal Advocacy at the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, representing the nation’s leading biopharmaceutical research companies among policymakers.

• Edward Hill is vice president of ViacomCBS’ Global Government Relations team. In this role, Hill guides advocacy across the company’s portfolio of businesses, and works with internal stakeholders, policymakers, and government officials to advance the corporation’s legislative, regulatory, and political initiatives. Hill joins ViacomCBS from the Washington, DC office of McGuireWoods LLP, where he served as Vice President of the firm’s Federal Public Affairs Group.

• As vice president of public affairs at Taft Advisors, Cory Horton draws upon his in-depth knowledge of legislative and public affairs processes to assist clients in both the public and private sectors. Throughout his career, he has drafted bills, advocated for key legislative amendments, and fostered positive bipartisan relationships with many Members of Congress, political entities, civil rights organizations, and advocacy groups.

• Jackie Kelly, Jr. is a senior federal affairs representative for FedEx Corporation. Jackie joined the FedEx team in September of 2019 and handles issues related to surface transportation. Prior to his current role with FedEx, he spent 19 years at American Trucking Associations (ATA), rising through the ranks of the Government Affairs Office.

• With over a decade of political advocacy experience, Adrienne Marks is a seasoned Government Relations professional. In her current role, she is responsible for managing Visa’s Political Action Committee, civic engagement, regulatory compliance at the federal and state level and corporate diversity & inclusion initiatives.
  
  

John Mason is senior director of government affairs at Altria Client Services Inc. In his role, John manages AltriaPAC, engagement with stakeholders, employee resources in Washington D.C., and strategic planning on federal issues for Altria Group and the Altria family of companies.

Prior to joining Altria, John worked for the United States Department of Agriculture in Rural Development for Utilities in the Administrators Office which supports rural communities in the form of loan and grants for infrastructure programs.

• Virgil Miller served for nearly 13 years in the U.S. House of Representatives, most recently as the chief of staff for Rep. Cedric L. Richmond (D-LA), former Assistant to the Majority Whip and former Chairman of the CBC. Virgil served as liaison between Rep. Richmond and two presidential administrations, including all federal agencies.

• Keenan Austin Reed, a Capitol Hill veteran, has spent the past decade guiding and advising principals in all levels of government. She has led congressional offices to senior Members and specializes in building coalitions to enhance Congress as an institution. In Keenan’s most recent role as chief of staff to Congressman Donald McEachin, she served as the Congressman’s top policy and political advisor, crafting strategies to elevate the Congressman’s work as a member of the House Energy and Commerce committee.

• Ibn Akbar Salaam is the director of federal legislative affairs for Waste Management, Inc (WM). Ibn is responsible for developing and advocating WM’s public policy position in tax, sustainability, transportation, and diversity, equity and inclusion. Ibn also manages WM’s political engagement and relationships with Members of Congress, industry coalitions, and other public policy organizations.

• In her role at Reynolds American Inc (RAI), ShaShrina Thomas shapes and promotes the interests of all RAI operating companies, including R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company; Santa Fe Natural Tobacco Company, Inc., American Snuff Company, LLC, R. J. Reynolds Vapor Company, and Modoral Brands Inc., in the political and policy arenas. As the company’s top democratic lobbyist, she works with Administration officials, members of Congress and industry associations on agriculture, commerce, manufacturing, and trade issues.

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ABOUT CBCF

The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Incorporated (CBCF), established in 1976, is a non-partisan, nonprofit, public policy, research and educational institute, committed to advancing the global black community by developing leaders, informing policy and educating the public.

The post CBCF Announces New Members with Diverse Experience to its Board of Directors and<br>Corporate Advisory Council appeared first on Congressional Black Caucus Foundation.

Contact
Kyla M. Clark
202.263.2812
media@cbcfinc.org

Washington – The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Incorporated (CBCF) today announced four newly elected board officers who will help support CBCF’s work to advance the global Black community by developing leaders, informing policy, and educating the public.  

“We’re grateful for the leadership Lori Billingsley, Tonya Veasey, Representative Colin Allred, Earle Jones, and Janice Bryant Howroyd provided during 2021,” said CBCF president and CEO Nicole Austin-Hillery. “We have worked diligently to ensure CBCF’s board leadership represents a variety of experts from government leadership, business experts, and advocacy groups. We welcome our four new officers as they bring tremendous diverse expertise and insight to our work.”

CBCF also chose Representative Terri Sewell, who proudly represents Alabama’s 7^th congressional district, as its new board chair. She is one of the first women elected to Congress from Alabama in her own right and is the first Black woman to serve in the Alabama Congressional delegation. In addition, Congresswoman Sewell is a member of the Congressional Black Caucus and co-chairs its Voting Rights Task Force.

“I am personally thrilled to welcome such a strong team of newly elected board officers,” said Lori Billingsley. “I am also pleased that Representative Terri Sewell will lead the next chapter of our work in her new role as board chair.”

The newly elected board officers begin their two-year term with CBCF effective February 23, 2022. The four newly elected board officers are:

• Congresswoman Terri Sewell, United States Representative for Alabama’s 7^th Congressional District; CBCF Board Chair
• Chaka Burgess, CEO of Nation Strategies; CBCF Board Vice-Chair  
• Kevin Brown, Executive Vice President, Global Operations & Chief Supply Chain Officer, Dell Technologies.; CBCF Board Secretary
• Markus Green, Vice President & Assistant General Counsel for Pfizer, Inc.; CBCF Board Treasurer

Representative Terri Sewell added, “On behalf of the board, I want to express our gratitude to Lori Billingsley, who has concluded her service as a valued board chair. Lori has provided visionary leadership for the staff and board. We wish Lori, Representative Sheila Jackson Lee, Janice Bryant Howroyd, Earle Jones, Dr. Troy Nash, and Julia Simon the best in their future endeavors.

To learn more about the CBCF board and read member bios, click here.

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About the CBCF

Established in 1976, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. (CBCF) is a non-partisan, nonprofit, public policy, research, and educational institute committed to advancing the global black community by developing leaders, informing policy, and educating the public. For more information, visit cbcfinc.org.

To receive updates on CBCF news, research, programs, and events, subscribe to receive the e-newsletter and follow @CBCFinc on Twitter and Instagram.

The post CBCF Announces Four Newly Elected Board Officers appeared first on Congressional Black Caucus Foundation.

CONTACT:
Erica Nash-Thomas
202.263.2812
media@cbcfinc.org

WASHINGTON—The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Incorporated (CBCF) elected new officers and appointed new members to its board of directors during its 2021 annual meeting.

The CBCF leadership welcomed its new members and noted the vast array of experiences they offer to the board, from Fortune 500 and global firms to insurance and financial services companies. They also bring to the CBCF board experiences as authors and thought leaders, and have backgrounds in public service. While their fields are varied, they all share in common an unwavering commitment to expanding opportunity for the communities they serve.

“We welcome our new board members and look forward to leveraging their collective experience to advance CBCF’s important work,” said Lori Billingsley, chair of the CBCF board of directors.

“The CBCF is fortunate to have these accomplished and committed individuals join our Board and we appreciate their willingness to serve,” said Tonya Veasy, president and CEO of the CBCF. “While each CBCF board member brings diverse perspectives, we share the same the same goal: To meet our mission to advance the global Black community.”

The 2021 officers of the CBCF Board of Directors are Lori Billingsley, chair; Tonya Veasey, President and CEO; Earle Jones, secretary; and Janice Bryant Howroyd, treasurer.

Board members beginning their three-year terms are as follows:

Chloe Barzey is the Atlanta Office Managing Director at Accenture, leading Accenture’s vision and operations across Georgia, Tennessee, and Alabama. Ms. Barzey leads programs focused on transformation and rapid earnings expansion leveraging technology.

Natalie Brunson-Wheeler is Counsel in State Farm’s Law Department in Bloomington, Illinois. In this capacity, Ms. Brunson-Wheeler serves as Legislative/Regulatory Counsel for Louisiana, Michigan, and Missouri.

Markus Green is Vice President & Assistant General Counsel for Pfizer, Inc., where he helps lead the Government Litigation Group. In this capacity, Mr. Green works with local, state, and federal prosecutors to defend Pfizer’s interest in government-initiated litigation and investigations.

Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence represents Michigan’s 14th Congressional District which includes portions of Detroit, the City of Southfield, and 16 other cities located in Oakland and Wayne counties. She was first elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2014 and serves as the Second Vice Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus.

Steve Pemberton is Chief Human Resources Officer for Workhuman, a leading provider of social recognition and continuous performance development solutions. In this role, Mr. Pemberton is responsible for all aspects of people functions, from talent acquisition and human resource systems to performance management.

Vincent Rondu serves as a Supplier Diversity Director for Bristol-Myers Squibb. In this role, Mr. Rondu is responsible for internal and external supplier diversity and small business operations including strategy alignment with Bristol-Myers Squibb’s Global Procurement Organization.

Lisa Osborne Ross serves as Edelman’s U.S. Chief Operating Officer. Ms. Ross is responsible for overseeing the firm’s U.S. operations. As an in-demand counselor to senior executives at Fortune 500 companies as well as senior leaders in higher education and government institutions, Ms. Ross brings a nuanced perspective to strategy and governance issues.

Congresswoman Terri Sewell is in her sixth term representing Alabama’s 7th Congressional District. She is one of the first women elected to Congress from Alabama in her own right and is the first Black woman to serve in the Alabama Congressional delegation. Congresswoman Sewell is a member of the Congressional Black Caucus and co-chairs its Voting Rights Task Force.

Sean Suggs is group vice president, Social Innovation, for Toyota Motor North America, where he is responsible for the organization’s shared impact, including philanthropy efforts, the Toyota USA Foundation, and the corporate diversity and inclusion strategy. Additionally, Mr. Suggs is responsible for the organization’s environmental sustainability function across North America.

Jesse J. Tyson retired from ExxonMobil after a 35-year global career that included marketing, logistics, and safety. Mr. Tyson’s acumen for operations and strategy positioned him for many leadership positions, including ExxonMobil’s Global Aviation, based in Brussels, Belgium.

To receive updates on CBCF news, research, programs and events, subscribe to receive the e-newsletter and follow @CBCFinc on Twitter and Instagram.

About the CBCF

The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Incorporated (CBCF), established in 1976, is a non-partisan, nonprofit, public policy, research and educational institute, committed to advancing the global Black community by developing leaders, informing policy and educating the public.

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CONTACT:
Dr. Erica Southerland
202.263.2812
media@cbcfinc.org

WASHINGTON—The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Incorporated (CBCF) today announced that Rep. Cedric Richmond will resign his role as board of directors chairman. He will transition from the CBCF board on January 19 in preparation to serve as senior adviser to the president and director of the White House Office of Public Engagement for President-Elect Joe Biden. Under Richmond’s leadership since 2019, the CBCF advanced its mission to develop leaders, inform public policy and educate the public by expanding its social justice, research and policy analysis initiatives, and the programming of the Leadership Institute. The CBCF also recognizes the appointment of Congressional Black Caucus member Rep. Marcia Fudge to serve as secretary of housing and urban development as part of the forthcoming Biden Administration.

“It has been one of the great honors of my life to serve as CBCF board chairman over the past year and a half,” said Rep. Richmond. “Whether it was our fellowships, scholarships, internships, or our recently improved endowment, we have put a significant down payment on the development of tomorrow’s Black leaders. I am eternally grateful for the confidence bestowed on me as the board set out to navigate difficult challenges and fortify the Foundation’s long-term vision and infrastructure. Together, we have set the CBCF on a path of growth and prosperity that will only see its reach expand over the coming years.”

Lori George Billingsley, vice chairwoman of the CBCF board of directors, will assume the role of chairwoman, effective January 19. Billingsley is global chief diversity, equity and inclusion officer for The Coca-Cola Company.

“The Coca-Cola Company is a long-time supporter of the CBCF, including the Annual Legislative Conference (ALC) Prayer Breakfast and Day of Healing,” said Lori George Billingsley. “I am proud to lead this dedicated and accomplished board of directors at this pivotal time in our collective history.”

“The CBCF will continue to develop opportunities to advance the global Black community,” said president and CEO Tonya Veasey. “We congratulate Rep. Fudge and thank Rep. Richmond for his dedicated service to the CBCF and we are grateful for his leadership as board chairman. Moreover, it is a pleasure to continue our tradition of impactful work with Lori George Billingsley.”

To receive updates on CBCF news, research, programs and events, subscribe to receive the e-newsletter and follow @CBCFinc on Twitter and Instagram.

About the CBCF

Established in 1976, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. (CBCF) is a non-partisan, nonprofit, public policy, research and educational institute committed to advancing the global Black community by developing leaders, informing policy and educating the public. For more information, visit cbcfinc.org.

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The post CBCF Announces Board of Directors Chair Transition appeared first on Congressional Black Caucus Foundation.

May 10, 2018

CONTACT:
Marc Banks
202.263.2800
Media@CBCFinc.org

WASHINGTON—The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. (CBCF) today announced the election of eight members to the board of directors and the appointment of four members to the foundation’s Corporate Advisory Council (CAC). The new members join the CBCF at a pivotal time with the organization looking to expand its reach across key initiatives in underserved communities.

Appointed by the board of directors, the CAC serves in an advisory role to the board and is charged with supporting the programs and furthering the objectives of the CBCF, including assisting with fundraising. Each body meets four times annually.

“As the CBCF continues to grow and expand, it is imperative that we bring diverse and new voices to the table to help accomplish the great work ahead of us,” said Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, chair, CBCF Board of Directors. “I extend my sincere gratitude and appreciation to the members of the board and the CAC for their service and leadership. I look forward to working in partnership with the new and current members of both groups to advance CBCF priorities.”

The new members bring a cross-section of talent in fields spanning government affairs, Fortune 500 companies, entertainment and banking. Each individual has demonstrated a willingness to invest his or her time, energy and resources in helping the CBCF achieve its vision of eliminating disparities within the global black community.

“The diverse experiences our new board and CAC members bring, enriches our capacity to advance the CBCF’s goals, and helps expand our reach to larger audiences,” said A. Shuanise Washington, president and CEO, CBCF. “I commend their willingness to contribute their time and talents to furthering the mission of the CBCF.”

The new board members who began three-year terms on May 6, 2018 are:

• Shanti Das – Founder and CEO, Press Reset Entertainment
• Dwight Evans – Member, U.S. Congress
• Fred Humphries – Corporate Vice President of U.S Government Affairs, Microsoft
• Leonard James, III – Founder, CEO, and Chief Strategist, J3 Advisory Group
• Keith Magee – Director, The Social Justice Institute; Senior Fellow in Culture and Justice, University College London
• Lisa Blunt Rochester – Member, U.S. Congress
• Julia Simon – Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary, Mary Kay Inc.
• Al Smith – Group Vice President and Chief Social Innovation Officer, Toyota Motor North America

The new Corporate Advisory Council members who began three-year terms on May 9, 2018 are:

• Lonnie Johnson – Counsel, Exxon Mobil Corporation
• Ramon Looby – Senior Vice President and Public Policy Lead, Bank of America Corporation
• Waldo McMillan – Vice President of Government Affairs, Charter Communications, Inc.
• Shashrina Thomas – Vice President, TRI-COR Industries, Inc.

New Board Members Biographies

• Shanti Das is a music industry veteran and the founder of Press Reset Entertainment, an Atlanta-based firm that serves as an entertainment concierge service providing independent marketing & strategy for music acts, artist development, talent booking for private & corporate events, brand influencer marketing and special event assistance.
• Dwight Evans is currently serving his first-term after being elected in a special election in November 2016. For 36 years, Congressman Evans served as a state representative in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. In the state legislature, he earned a reputation as a pragmatic leader who knows how to put public policy above politics and make ideas matter.
• Fred Humphries is the Corporate Vice President of U.S Government Affairs for Microsoft in Washington, D.C. Under his leadership as chief public policy advocate, U.S. Government Affairs is its own practice group within the company comprising expertise in policy, outreach, political engagement and government affairs. His work amplifies Microsoft’s voice regarding key advocacy issues internally and externally on all aspects of federal and state affairs.
• Leonard James, III is the Founder, CEO, and Chief Strategist of the J3 Advisory Group (J3AG), a management and relationship-building consulting firm that specializes in business, communications strategies that assists clients in educating people on their issues. J3AG assists its clients in developing short and long range plans with the specific goals, approaches, stratifies and actions that enable the organization to achieve its mission.
• Keith Magee is a public intellectual, social justice scholar, theologian, and philanthropic advisor. He serves as Senior Fellow, Culture & Justice, University College London and Scholar in Residence, Boston University. He was the founding director, National Public Housing Museum, Chicago, IL, successfully leading a multi-million dollars capital campaign. He took the post after serving as senior religious affairs advisor with the Obama for America campaign.
• Lisa Blunt Rochester is currently serving her first-term in the U.S. House of Representatives. Before being electing to Congress, she managed an $87 million budget as Secretary of Labor for the state of Delaware. She also served as the CEO of the Metropolitan Wilmington Urban League, an action-oriented, public policy research think-tank focused on the inclusion of people of color.
• Julia Simon is Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary for Mary Kay Inc., overseeing the company’s Legal Department, Risk Management, Corporate Communications and Corporate Social Responsibility functions. Her teams protect the company’s reputation and operations in more than 40 markets around the globe. She is a member of the company’s executive committee, and also serves as the Senior Privacy Officer for the company. Prior to joining Mary Kay, Julia was a partner at the law firm, Locke Liddell & Sapp in Dallas, practicing in the areas of commercial litigation and labor & employment.
• Al Smith is Group Vice President, Chief Social Innovation Officer for Toyota Motor North America, where he is responsible for the organization’s shared impact, including philanthropy efforts, the Toyota USA Foundation, and the corporate diversity and inclusion strategy. In addition, Smith is responsible for the organization’s environmental sustainability function across North America.

New Corporate Advisory Council Member Biographies

• Lonnie Johnson is Counsel at Exxon Mobil Corporation. Prior to serving in his current role, Lonnie served in various positions within Exxon and ExxonMobil including Strategic Issues Manager, Exxon Mobil Corporation, Counsel for ExxonMobil Exploration and Development projects in the Gulf of Mexico, Madagascar and Nigeria; Refinery Attorney, Baytown and Beaumont Texas refineries and Trial Attorney, Exxon Company U.S.A., Houston, Texas.
• Ramon Looby is the Senior Vice President, and Public Policy Lead for the Bank of America Corporation where he is responsible for managing the company’s public policy strategy development and implementation of the strategy on a regional basis. Ramon also serves as a member of the Global Marketing & Corporate Affairs Diversity and Inclusion Council – a group focused on identifying opportunities to leverage the division’s D&I internal employee strategy and service to clients around the world.
• Waldo McMillian is Vice President of Government Affairs and oversees Charter’s Federal Legislative efforts. Waldo most recently served as Founder and Managing Director of Capstone Counsel Group, a federal government relations firm based in Washington, DC.  Prior to founding his firm, Mr. McMillan served as Counsel in the Public Policy and Government Affairs practice group at Bryan Cave LLP, and served as Vice President for Public Policy and General Counsel at the broadband technology nonprofit One Economy Corporation.
• Shashrina Thomas is Vice President at TRI-COR Industries, Inc. (TCI) and is committed to building a diverse operational culture of excellence to help create a competitive advantage in the Defense, the Homeland Security and the Intelligence Communities for both the public and the private sectors. Shashrina is a transformational leader and has been an experienced leader in congressional and state government affairs; has extensive marketing expertise in appropriations, defense, energy, healthcare, homeland security, intelligence and transportation. Shashrina has built a reputation for getting things done, working in a bipartisan manner even in an increasingly partisan environment. Shashrina’s achievements at the national and state level are unparalleled.

ABOUT CBCF
Established in 1976, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. (CBCF) is a non-partisan, nonprofit, public policy, research and educational institute committed to advancing the global black community by developing leaders, informing policy and educating the public. For more information, visit cbcfinc.org.

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The post CBCF Selects New Leadership for Board of Directors and Corporate Advisory Council appeared first on Congressional Black Caucus Foundation.

The CBCF leadership welcomed the new board and CAC members, noting that they represent the commitment to leadership and public service that drives the Foundation’s mission. In addition, their areas of expertise align closely with the organization’s policy initiative to advance minority business development and entrepreneurship.

“We look forward to learning from the experiences and leveraging the expertise our new board members bring to the CBCF,” said Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, chair of the CBCF board of directors.

“The CBCF is privileged to have these individuals as talented additions to our esteemed Board and CAC and appreciate their willingness to serve,” said A. Shuanise Washington, president and CEO of the CBCF. “While each CBCF board member brings diverse perspectives and accomplishments, we are united in our passion for impact.”

2017 officers of the CBCF Board of Directors include: Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, chair; A. Shuanise Washington, president and CEO; Cathy Hughes, vice chair; Earle Jones, secretary; Kevin Brown, treasurer; and Chaka Burgess; CAC chair.

Board members beginning their three-year terms on May 9, 2017, are as follows:

• Aisha Bowe is an aerospace engineer and the co-founder and CEO of STEMBoard, LLC in San Francisco, California. She leads development, expansion and management of STEMBoard’s multimillion defense-contracts and private sector clients. She is also the first Millennial to join the CBCF board of directors.
• Kevin Brown is the vice president and chief procurement officer for Dell, Inc. in Texas. In this role, he oversees the company’s strategic procurement and supply chain-related initiatives to propel, foster, and solidify Dell’s reputation as a leading global systems and services company.
• Henry Louis Gates, Jr.Henry Louis Gates, Jr., is the Alphonse Fletcher University Professor and Director of the Hutchins Center for African and African American Research at Harvard University in Cambridge, MA. He is also an Emmy Award-winning filmmaker, literary scholar, journalist, cultural critic, and institution builder, who has authored and co-authored twenty-one books and created fifteen documentary films.
• Tammy Jones is both principal and president of Basis Investment Group, a multi-strategy commercial real estate investment platform she founded with JEMB Realty Corporation that acquires and originates a variety of senior and subordinated loans, preferred equity and joint venture equity positions on behalf of its investors. Under her leadership, Basis has succeeded in closing nearly $2.5 billion in commercial real estate debt and structured equity related investments across the United States.

Corporate Advisory Council members beginning their three-year terms on May 10, 2017, are as follows:

• Chanelle Hardy is the strategic outreach and external partnerships director for Google in Washington, DC. She is a member of the Public Policy team, focusing on strategic outreach and external partnerships.
• Marie Long is assistant vice president of federal relations for AT&T in Washington, DC. In this capacity, she is responsible for representing AT&T’s legislative interests before the United States Congress.
• Dontai Smalls is vice president of global public affairs for UPS in Washington, DC. He coordinates all international issues on Capitol Hill for UPS. He also coordinates UPS’ global aviation portfolio in DC.
• Nigel Stephens is director of government affairs for Accenture in Washington, DC. In this role, he serves as the firm’s primary liaison with members of Congress, service and technology industry associations, regulators and other policy makers.
• Phillip Wallace is government relations manager for Intellectual Ventures in Washington DC. He manages federal government affairs and political relationships for intellectual Ventures, LLC, a venture capital and private equity firm based in Belleview, WA.
• Cherie Wilson is director of federal and administration affairs for General Motors in Washington, DC. In this capacity, she is responsible for developing and executing the legislative and political engagement strategy for GM and the company’s captive finance arm, GM Financial.

ABOUT CBCF

The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Incorporated (CBCF), established in 1976, is a non-partisan, nonprofit, public policy, research and educational institute, committed to advancing the global black community by developing leaders, informing policy and educating the public.

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CONTACT

Anne Williams
202.263.2812
media@cbcfinc.org

The post CBCF Announces New Officers and Members with Exceptional Expertise to its Board of Directors and Corporate Advisory Council appeared first on Congressional Black Caucus Foundation.

Leaders in Business and Government to Help Advance CBCF’s Mission and Growth

WASHINGTON—The Board of Directors of Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Incorporated (CBCF) has appointed new officers and elected five new members at its Annual Meeting in February.

Four distinguished individuals at the pinnacle of government, private business and global media will serve as officers of the CBCF’s Board of Directors. Mr. R. Donahue Peebles, chairman and chief executive officer, The Peebles Corporation was appointed chair, and Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, vice chair. Mr. Earle Jones, senior director of government affairs, Comcast, NBC Universal and Ms. Cathy Hughes, founder and chairperson, Radio One, will serve as secretary and treasurer, respectively.

Rep. Joyce Beatty, Janice Bryant Howroyd of the Act 1 Group, Rep. Brenda L. Lawrence, and Sharon C. Taylor of the Prudential Foundation were among the new directors approved by the Board. The directors represent a diverse set of expertise and backgrounds, from Fortune 500 companies to Congress.

“I am humbled to have been entrusted to lead the board of directors,” said R. Donahue Peebles, the newly elected chair of the CBCF board of directors. “I look forward to working with new and current members to build on the momentum the foundation has established as a prominent voice on public policy issues affecting African Americans.”

The new directors join the CBCF at a time of exponential growth with the expansion of the Leadership Institute education programs, the Executive Economic Summit series, and the Center for Policy Analysis and Research New Horizon Initiatives.

“Each new member of our board brings a wealth of public policy, business, and financial acumen from successful careers and service in government, Congress, and more,” said A. Shuanise Washington, president and CEO of the CBCF. “We look for exceptional individuals to strengthen our board’s expertise, and we are confident that our newly elected officers and directors will make significant contributions to the CBCF.”

The new officers of the CBCF board of directors are as follows:

Mr. R. Donahue Peebles is founder, chairman and chief executive officer of The Peebles Corporation, one of the country’s few national privately held real estate investment and development companies with a multi-billion dollar portfolio of projects in New York, Washington D.C., Philadelphia, Boston, Miami and Miami Beach.

Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee returned to the board in 2015, after serving for three years previously in from 2010 – 2013. Jackson Lee is also serving her eleventh term as a member of the United States House of Representatives from the state of Texas. She is currently a senior member of the House Judiciary Committee.

Mr. Earle Jones is the senior director, federal government affairs at Comcast NBCUniversal in Washington D.C. Jones has served in the cable telecommunications industry for more than 25 years. He is a member of the Comcast Federal Affairs Legislative team that successfully obtained federal regulatory approval for the Comcast/General Electric acquisition of NBCUniversal in January 2011.

Ms. Cathy Hughes is the founder and chairperson of Radio One. Inc., the largest African-American owned and operated broadcast company in the nation. It is the first African-American company in radio history to dominate several major markets simultaneously. Cathy Hughes is the first and only African-American woman to chair a publicly held corporation.

The new board members are as follows:

Rep. Joyce Beatty is serving her second term representing the 3rd Congressional District of Ohio. She serves on the Committee on Financial Services and is member of the Housing and Insurance and Oversight and Investigations subcommittees.

Rep. Alcee L. Hastings is serving his 12th term representing Florida’s 20th District. He is the Senior Democratic Whip, and a senior member on the House Rules Committee. He is also Co-Chairman of the Congressional Everglades Caucus and Co-Chairman of the Florida Delegation.

Janice Bryant Howroyd is the founder and CEO of the Act 1 Group, a multi-billion-dollar workforce solutions enterprise, which operates in 19 countries. In 2015, she received the Southern California Minority Supplier Development Council’s (SCMSDC) Leadership Excellence Award.

Rep. Brenda L. Lawrence is a Ranking Member on the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee’s Subcommittee on the Interior and a member on the House Committee on Small Business. She also serves on the Subcommittee on National Security; Agriculture, Energy, and Trade; and Contracting and Workforce.

Sharon C. Taylor is senior vice president, human resources, and chair of The Prudential Foundation. She is responsible for the oversight of Prudential’s Office of Corporate Social Responsibility and chairs both the Human Resources Policy and Investment Oversight Committees. She is a founding member of the company’s Black Leadership Forum.

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ABOUT THE CBCF:
The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Incorporated, established in 1976, is a non-partisan, non-profit, public policy, research and educational institute intended to broaden and elevate the influence of African Americans in the political, legislative and public policy arenas.

The post CBCF Announces New Officers and Directors for its Board appeared first on Congressional Black Caucus Foundation.

WASHINGTON—The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Incorporated (CBCF) today announced that Mr. R. Donahue Peebles, the immediate past vice chairman of the CBCF board of directors, will assume the role of chairman, effective immediately. Don Peebles is a real estate entrepreneur, author, founder and chairman of The Peebles Corporation.

The change in leadership comes after Rep. Chaka Fattah stepped down as board chairman yesterday, after nearly three years helming the CBCF’s board of directors. Under Rep. Fattah’s leadership, the foundation advanced its mission to develop leaders, inform public policy and educate the public by expanding its education, economic empowerment, public health and environmental sustainability initiatives.

“Despite the changes in board leadership, the CBCF will continue its efforts to develop opportunities for African Americans in all facets of life, from employment, economic empowerment and health care to education,” said president and CEO A. Shuanise Washington. “We thank Rep. Fattah for his dedicated service to the CBCF and are grateful for his leadership as board chair.”

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