TNJ's The 25 Influential Black Women in Business Class of 2018

On Friday, March 16, 2018, The Network Journal, New York's leading Black professional and small-business magazine, presented it’s annual Influential Black Women in Business Awards at the New York Marriott Marquis. TNJ's 25 Influential Black Women in Business Awards is one of New York City's most prestigious events. For the 20th consecutive year, this Luncheon event has been recognizing most successful Black women.
 
This year's 25 deserving women were chosen from hundreds of nominations from the ranks of professionals and entrepreneurs. They were honored at an exciting program. Multi-Emmy Award winning journalist, Brenda Blackmon, was the Mistress of Ceremonies. TNJ celebrated women who are redefining excellence. As always, there was plenty of humor, anecdotes and the opportunity to renew acquaintances and network. It was an afternoon many won't soon forget!

“The women we honored in the 20th year of the awards span occupations, industries and expertise, and they share the same traits when it comes to their career and community service: passion, drive and focus. We salute them for achieving significant levels of success in their businesses and professional careers and for their myriad contributions to their community,” states TNJ Publisher and CEO Aziz Gueye Adetimirin. 

Former TNJ  40 under Forty honoree and longtime supporter of  TNJ, Genma Stringer Holmes, owner of Holmes Pest Control and GSH Media, was in the class of  2018 honorees. "When my friend Azia contacted me to share the news, I could only think of my grandmother. I dedicated the honor to her and received it knowing she was there with me in spirit. I was deeply humbled by the recognition and was extremely grateful to be included in this year's class. You could feel the positive energy that flowed between us! I have was in awe of our collective network and how dedicated each one was in their community. I am so thankful to the committee and TNJ for such a wonderful experience," stated Holmes in a recent interview.

The 25 Influential Black Women in Business Class of 2018 are:

Jan M. Adams
President/CEO
JMA Solutions

Vicki R. Brackens, ChFC
President & Financial Planner
Brackens Financial Solutions Network, LLC

Michele Bryant
Senior Managing Director, Global Chief Procurement Officer
Deloitte Global

Gabrielle Bullock
Director of Global Diversity, Principal
Perkins+Will

Kimberly Y. Chainey
Associate General Counsel, Global M&A, Strategy & Innovation
Avis Budget Group, Inc.

Roxann Thomas Chargois
Co-Owner
JMC Auto Group

Yolanda Conyers
Vice President Global HR and Chief Diversity Officer
Lenovo

Camille Chang Gilmore
VP of HR & Global Chief Diversity Officer
Boston Scientific Corporation

Michelle D. Greene
Vice President , IT Business Partner – Global Functions
Johnson Controls

Genma Stringer Holmes
Owner
Holmes Pest Control

Lesleigh Irish-Underwood
SVP & Chief Marketing Officer
United Way of New York City

Marachel L. Knight
Senior Vice President-Technology Planning & Engineering
AT&T Services, Inc.

Dee C. Marshall
President & CEO
Raise the Bar, LLC 

Ghillaine Reid Melbourne
Partner
McGuireWoods LLP

Gail D. Morales
SVP, US Project Efficiency Executive
TD America's Most Convenient Bank 

Trina Parks, MHA, FACHE
Senior Vice President, Corporate Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer
RWJ Barnabas Health

Joy Profet
General Manager
ESSENCE Communications, Inc.

Carla Hunter Ramsey
Global Director Corporate Social Responsibility
Global Procurement

Denella Ri'chard
Sr. Director, Trade Communications & Engagement
Holland America Line

Sandra L. Richards
Managing Director
Head of Segment Sales & Engagement Group, Wealth Management 

Morgan Stanley

Nneka Rimmer
SVP, Strategy & Global Enablement
McCormick & Company

Nzinga Shaw
Sr. VP of Community & Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer
Atlanta Hawks & Philips Arena

Tamika Curry Smith
Head of Diversity & Inclusion
Mercedes-Benz USA

Alicia Thompson, APR
Managing Director
Porter Novelli

Cassandra Carter Wheeler
Regional Director
Georgia Power Company

This select group was profiled in the Spring 2018 issue of the magazine, and was formally honored during Women’s History Month at the 20th Annual 25 Influential Black Women in Business Awards Luncheon, presented by Morgan Stanley, on Friday, March 16, 2018. This highly anticipated signature TNJ event was held at the New York Marriott Marquis Hotel, located at 1535 Broadway in New York City.

This year’s sponsors include Presenting Sponsor Morgan Stanley. Additional sponsors include AT&T and Bronner Brothers. 

About the 25 Influential Black Women in Business Awards

Launched in March 1999, The Network Journal's 25 Influential Black Women in Business Awards honors women whose professional achievements have significantly impacted an industry or profession, and who also have made an important contribution to her community. A "TNJ25" honoree typically is a business owner, or a partner, president, CEO, board chair, or other senior-management executive with significant decision-making authority in the corporate, nonprofit (including academia and medicine), or government sector.

About The Network Journal

Founded in 1993, The Network Journal (TNJ) is an award-winning magazine published quarterly. It provides news and commentaries on issues that affect the growth of business and the advancement of professionals in the workplace for an audience of predominantly African-American professionals, corporate executives and small-business owners. Engaging more than 98,325 readers per issue, TNJ is distributed nationwide, with a focus on the New York tri-state area, while its daily digital edition at tnj.com reaches a global audience. 

Visit web site at http://www.tnj.com.

Gone Too Soon: Derek D. Young

After missing a few frantic calls from my girlfriend, Veronica, I called her back Monday morning to hear that Derek Young had passed suddenly on Sunday. Abruptly, I cut my Christmas Military visits short to fly back to Nashville. After speaking briefly to Dee, his sister, I knew I could not stay another day on the road. I needed to see her, right away. I caught the first flight back to Nashville.

Derek D. Young

Derek was not just a dearly loved member of the Nashville Community but he was my maid of honor's only brother and the son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Young who were like surrogate parents to me. Mr. Young walked me down the aisle many moons ago and Mrs. Young encouraged me as a young wife and mom for years until she joined God's roster of Angels in heaven. 

The Youngs in the 80's.

The Youngs have been fixtures in our lives for over 30 years. Deirdre, affectionately known as Dee to me, babysat my crew, and was there for milestones in the lives of my children, the good and the bad. 'Aunt Dee's' brother, Derek, was part of the package of love that came when you are friends with anyone from the Young Clan. You love one, you WILL get to know and love them all! You got two for one and rejoiced that you knew them both. Derek was the life of any one's party and had premium seats at every Holmes' TSU tailgate. He enjoyed my daughter's delicacies and he did not hold back praise for the Bug man's culinary skills. He knew my love of all things Christmas and was not shy of sending me messages saying "do you and do it well." My children often stated, "Mr. Derek was sharp as a tack and cleaner than Clorox."  

Mr. Clean!

Derek and Deidre were the finest examples we could show our kids of how siblings take care of each other and did we drum that point home often. As recently as three weeks ago, we mentioned them as an example of pooling resources to make a dollar triple in value with two of the Holmes. "Work together," I said. "Look at Derek and Deirdre, be like them," with the firmness of mama who was not accepting of anything less.

Deirdre and Derek

As so many of us are trying accept the reality of Derek's untimely death, let us hold deep in our hearts the wonderful memories that many made with him through the years. Derek's love for his family, his adopted families, his church, his community and his fraternity will be with all of us forever. And ever! Like Derek, let us be committed to living life to the fullest and be intentional about helping others because it is not only right and pleasing to God but because it is a blessing to be a blessing to others! Derek believed with all his heart and soul in being a blessing to others. With purple and gold running through his veins and his trademark infectious smile, Derek will be missed. Dearly. 

Derek D. Young's Obituary 

Baby Derek, 1961

Christmas 1963

Derek Dexter Young was born on November 17, 1960 to Robert A. Young and the late Claudine H. Young. He departed this life suddenly on December 4, 2016. 

Derek’s early education began in the Wilson and Rutherford County schools and was completed upon his graduation from Oakland High School. After receiving a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Middle Tennessee State University, Derek began his professional career as a manager for Kroger in 1985.  While at Kroger, he built friendships that lasted his lifetime. Often, Derek spoke of the good times he shared with the “Covington Crew.” In 2001, Derek began working at Suntrust Bank, where he matriculated to the position held at his death, an Officer Bank Support Specialist.

From November 2005-2012, Derek was united in marriage to Granvisse Earl.  

In April 2000, Derek was initiated into the brotherhood of the Gamma Phi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated. Being a lifetime member of his beloved fraternity was a major accomplishment to Derek. 

Mr. Young and "the Aunties," Christmas 2015

Derek was known for his love of family! He put great effort into staying connected with his loved ones and never missed family events and special occasions.  Whether it was a gathering with the Young Clan or a party for a member of his second family, The Blacks, everyone depended on Derek to be there. His devotion to his parents was known far and wide. He was big brother extraordinaire to baby sister, Deidre. And he was a beloved nephew to “the Aunties.” He made every effort to attend to their needs (and occasional wants). Every Saturday morning at 9am, Derek would talk to his favorite cousin, Jackie, to catch up on the week’s events.  Derek loved attending the football games of his godson, Tyler Black, and he was overjoyed when he learned that Tyler committed to play football at Tennessee State University! Knowing that Tyler was on the TSU team made his season ticket subscription that much more special.

 

New Year, New Attitude!

In his youth, Derek attended St. John United Methodist Church. He was currently a member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church, where he served as a dedicated member of the Mt. Zion Antioch Finance Team for over 13 years. 
 

Nashville's Best Dressed!

Derek had a keen sense of style that he attributed to his Mother and Aunt Annie. He would always say, “My Momma and Aunt Annie always kept me dressed.”  No matter the occasion, you could count on Derek being fashion forward from head to toe.  His great attention to detail and quality was not only apparent in his attire, but also in his home and his vehicles.  He enjoyed nice things and took great care of what he worked so hard to obtain.  

Deirdre and Veronica

Phil 1:3

Derek will be lovingly remembered by his father, Robert A. Young; his sister, Deirdre D. Young; his Aunts, Lillian Harding, Jeanetta I. Young, Helen M. Young, and Ida F. Hicks; his godson, Tyler Black; a host of cousins and friends. 

Family visitation: Friday, December 9th at HELLUM FUNERAL CHAPEL at 611 South Highland Avenue, Murfreesboro, TN 37130 from 5 pm to 7 pm.

Homegoing Services: Saturday, December 10th at Mt. Zion Baptist Church Antioch location at 2261 Murfreesboro Road, Nashville, TN 37217. Family visitation from 10:00 to 10:45 with the Omega Omega Service commencing at 10:45 AM with funeral to follow at 11 AM. Bishop Joseph W. Walker, III eulogist. Interment Mt. Lebanon Memorial Gardens, Lebanon, Tn.

Photo Credits: Keith Layden, Todd Boston, and the Young Family.

All Things Marine Week on Living Your Best Life with Genma Holmes

Join Living Your Best Life with Genma Holmes as we profile organizations, leaders, and volunteers who lead by example. With extraordinary acts of kindness and charitable giving that help countless lives daily, these organizations, leaders, and volunteers  embody, "Be the change you want to see in the world."

Join us Saturday, September 10, 2016, to hear from behind the scenes during #MarineWeek in Nashville. Hear from active duty Marines who are on the front line serving our country. They will sharing amazing stories about planning an event that has captivated not only Nashville and the Middle Tennessee Region but thousands who have traveled to see the world's strongest military force engaging with the community and glimpses of a day in the life of The Few, Proud.

The five-day free, public event kicked off with an opening ceremony on Wednesday, Sept. 7 at Public Square Park in Nashville. Mayor Megan Barry, daughter of a Marine, gave opening remarks. There were also performances by Darryl Worley, Mike Corrado, Marine Band San Diego and the Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon. The crowds were mesmerized!

Tune in to hear 1st Lt. Johnny Henderson share his Marine story. Listen to why Nashville was chosen to host this wonderful event. We will hear highlights from this week and the exciting scheduled slated for Saturday, September 10 and Sunday's 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony. 


· Wreath-Laying Ceremony from 9–9:30 a.m. at John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge
· Mural Unveiling Ceremony, 9:30–10:30 a.m., Douglas Corner Cafe'
· Dragon Boat Festival, 10 a.m.–12 p.m., Cumberland River
· Vanderbilt Universityt vs. Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) Football Game, 3 p.m., Vanderbilt Stadium
· Marine Band San Diego’s “Sound Strike” at the Tin Roof Broadway, Marine Week Nashville 2016, 7–10 p.m.
· The Frist Center for the Visual Arts exhibition Bellissima! The Italian Automotive Renaissance 1945-1975. Museum's Saturday hours are 10:00 a.m-5:30 p.m. Special recognition for World War II Montford Point Marine, Mark H McCann Sr.

Bellissima! The Italian Automotive Renaissance 1

We will also hear a musical tribute performed live in the studio from Belmont University Senior, Jason Earley!

 Living Your Best Life is heard on 760AM in the Nashville-Middle TN Region, Inspirational Networks, in military homes, and Ustream.TV worldwide.

More about #MarineWeek in Nashville!

Marine Week, hosted by the United States Marine Corps in one city per year, is a celebration of Community, Country and Corps – providing the American public the experience of directly connecting with hundreds of Marines.

From Sept. 7–11, Marine Week Nashville will feature hands-on static displays, live demonstrations, time-honored Marine Corps traditions, musical performances and other events to showcase the history, military capabilities and community involvement of the Corps. 

More about United States Marine Corps:

The United States Marine Corps was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on Nov. 10, 1775, and has been America’s expeditionary force in readiness since. Marines are forward-deployed to respond swiftly and aggressively in times of crisis from the air, land and sea.

There are approximately 182,000 Marines actively serving today, with another 38,900 Marines in the Reserves.

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Lori Anne Parker-Danley Talks Heart Health on Living Your Best Life with Genma Holmes

Join Living Your Best Life with Genma Holmes as we profile organizations, leaders, and volunteers who lead by example. With extraordinary acts of kindness and charitable giving that help countless lives daily, these organizations, leaders, and volunteers  embody, "Be the change you want to see in the world."

Lori Anne, a national spokesperson for Go Red.

On Saturday, February 13, 2016, Lori Anne Parker-Danley, Ph.D, will share how she survived a heart attack that is usually only diagnosed during autopsies. Hear Lori Anne's amazing story about not one heart attack but two in the span of a few days.

Lori Anne will discuss how she chalked up her early symptoms to a case of the flu but a few days later noticed that her heart was fluttering and decided to search the internet for heart disease symptoms in women. It was then she realized it was a heart attack she’d experienced. Yet, even with her newfound knowledge, Lori Anne didn’t see a doctor.

“When my symptoms started again a few days later, I knew immediately ‘I am having a heart attack.’ I knew something was desperately wrong.”

Lori Anne went to the hospital where she was diagnosed with coronary artery dissections, meaning two of the main arteries to her heart were actually splitting apart. Doctors performed an emergency triple bypass surgery. Afterward, Lori Anne learned how lucky she was to survive. “My condition is usually only diagnosed postmortem. Finding out that so many people don’t survive my condition was intense.”

At the age of 38, Lori Anne Parker-Danley had two heart attacks and an emergency bypass. They were caused by a rare condition called spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD). "Swamp Life" was created as a result of that time and the processing of her near-death event.

Tune in to hear why Lori Anne wants women to know that heart disease can happen to anyone. She’s living proof. “This was the last thing I would ever have expected to happen to me! As a woman, I had worried about breast cancer, but I never worried about my heart.”

"A Bowl of Red Blooms," sculpture by Lori Anne Parker-Danley.

Since her heart attack, Lori Anne has been determined to help women learn to get in tune with their bodies, recognize their symptoms and take immediate action. Lori Anne adamantly believes that her story should serve as a cautionary tale to others!

This is a must hear interview!

 Living Your Best Life, a radio show that empowers, inspires, and motivates us to live our BEST life, is heard on 760AM The Gospel in the Middle-TN area, Tune In,  military bases and on Ustream.TV worldwide from 9:00-10:00am CST.

More about Lori Anne Parker-Danely
 

Go Red Promotional Photo

Lori Anne Parker-Danley, Ph.D., is an artist and writer whose visual work includes painting, sculpture, and, most recently, multi-media installation art. She first began making art in 2003 while living in Binghamton, New York, where she had her first solo painting show in early 2004, which was well received. Later that year, Lori Anne moved to Nashville, Tennessee, where she currently lives. She has participated in many local group shows with Plowhaus Artists’ Cooperative, Chromatics Gallery, Ruby Green Studios, and other organizations. Since 2008, she has also organized solo exhibitions at the Nashville Ballet, Rumors Wine and Art Bar, Twist Gallery, Vanderbilt University, and other locations.  

She is the recipient of two Innovation Grants, which she received in 2012 and 2013, from Vanderbilt University’s Curb Creative Campus. The first grant was for her ambitious 2012–13 Identity Sculptures Project, a collaborative, public art project involving Vanderbilt faculty, staff, and students, which combined participants’ writing with her sculpture and culminated in on-campus exhibitions at both the Sarratt Student Center and the Stevenson Science and Engineering Library. 

The second Innovation Grant was awarded to Lori Anne for her 21st Century Memory and Longing Project, an environmental art installation and public collaboration, is on view on the Vanderbilt University campus beginning March 2015. Lori Anne’s images can be found on the CD covers, website, and professional marketing materials of acoustic fingerstyle guitarist John Danley. By day, she currently works as an editor at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Prior to that, she served as editor at Nashville’s Frist Center for the Visual Arts for four years. At the Frist Center, she also participated in public programming and regularly gave exhibition lectures in the galleries. Lori Anne received her Ph.D. in philosophy, specializing in aesthetics and literary theory, from Binghamton University, Binghamton, New York, in 2010. She has recently starting working on a book that explores the phenomenology and aesthetic expressions of embodiment, including the ways medical trauma may cause a person to experience her body as “stranger,” and how the practice of yoga can help a person “re-map” and live in her body again.