Spelman College has been ranked the No. 1 historically Black college and university (HBCU) for 18 consecutive years, producing a diverse sisterhood of more than 21,000 distinguished alumnae. Through a focus on sisterhood, service and scholarship, Spelman fosters an environment where Spelmanites grow into Spelman women, leaders who go on to make “a choice to change the world.”
The 40 Under 40 Spotlight highlights 40 outstanding Spelman alumnae under the age of 40 who are making waves beyond the gates. In the spirit of sisterhood, all honorees were nominated across the categories of healthcare and law; arts, innovation and academia; business and entrepreneurship; media and entertainment; and public service and community engagement.
On behalf of The Spelman Blueprint and the Spelman Pre-Alumnae Council, we thank everyone who submitted nominations and extend our congratulations to the 40 Under 40 Spotlight awardees.
To stay connected and continue celebrating stories of impact, follow us on Instagram at @thespelmanblueprint and @spelman_pac.
Adja Aminata Camara | Healthcare and Law
Adja Aminata Camara, Class of 2024, has always been a true trailblazer. As co-founder of the Spelman Collegiate 100 “Trailblazer” chapter, she has long demonstrated an affinity for philanthropic service. For Camara, education has always been a means of transformation. She is pursuing neuroscience at Harvard Medical School as a PiNbac Scholar—a field in which African Americans make up less than 1%. Camara is working with the Assad Lab to determine where voluntary movement begins and ends in the brain This research will aid in understanding neurological disorders such as stroke and Parkinson’s disease, which disproportionately affect Black individuals As a Spelman woman in a traditionally underrepresented field, Adja Aminata Camara is advancing scientific knowledge and championing diversity in research.
Dr. Alaina Chipman-Leeks | Business and Entrepreneurship
Dr. Alaina Chipman-Leeks, Class of 2008, is genuinely passionate about her career and the impact she creates through it. After graduating from Spelman with a BA in Child Development, she earned her master’s in Special Education and a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership. After spending 10 years in education, Chipman-Leeks founded and now serves as Executive Director of Atlanta Unbound Academy. Atlanta Unbound is a unique institution that prioritizes mental health by offering free counseling for its students—something often overlooked in education. Under Chipman-Leeks’’ leadership and AUC connections, Atlanta Unbound partners with Morehouse School of Medicine to provide enriching opportunities for youth. Through her dedication to creating a healthy environment for minority students, Chipman-Leeks continues to make “A Choice to Change the World,” ensuring that future generations have the proper foundations to succeed.
Alana Hewitt | Business and Entrepreneurship
Alana Hewitt, Class of 2008, has made a deliberate and consistent choice to use the power of business as a force for equity, inclusion, and long-term impact. Before becoming Vice President of PepsiCo, Hewitt worked at companies like Amazon and Essence Ventures. At Amazon, she redefined digital commerce by launching and growing over 200 brands and spearheading initiatives like “Texture & Hues” and the first customized bra-fitting tool At Essence Ventures, she launched the company’s first digital marketplace for Black-owned brands and oversaw the New Voices Fund—a $100M investment fund for women of color entrepreneurs. At PepsiCo, she leads the fastest-growing segment across the company’s $92B enterprise: Digital Commerce. A Wharton MBA graduate, she also co-founded TrendNest, a manufacturing startup that improves clients’ speed to market by over 60%. Hewitt lifts others as she rises, using innovation to create systemic change in who gets seen, who gets served, and who gets to lead.
Ambria Berksteiner | Public Service and Community Engagement
Ambria Berksteiner, Class of 2017, has developed a passion for STEM education, transportation planning, and community advocacy. In 2017, she won the title of Miss Savannah USA. She empowered young women of color in STEM during her reign by launching “Operation One STEM at a Time.” As its Mentor-in-Chief, her organization’s mission is to educate, enlighten, and empower young women to pursue STEM-related careers 2018, she received a proclamation for the first Women in STEM Day for Savannah-Chatham County. Recently appointed to the Live Oak Public Library’s Board of Trustees, she furthers access to education in Savannah. Ambria also serves as a Transportation Planner at Chatham Area Transit, working to make public transit more accessible and equitable. She believes that exposure leads to expansion, and she’s helping launch every child closer to their dreams, one STEM lesson at a time.
Brady Stephens | Business and Entrepreneurship
Brady Stephens, Class of 2015, consistently exemplifies operational excellence and community-driven leadership. At Spelman, she served on the PULSE Programming Board and as Second Attendant to Miss Spelman College—roles that shaped her passion for service. In honor of her late mother, Gina Maria Dozier King, she founded the GMDK Foundation to support patients and families with travel-related needs. Today, she serves as Chief of Staff to the Vice President of U.S. and Canada Mobility at Uber, helping drive high-level strategy and contributing over $21 billion in gross bookings. Stephens isn’t just building a career—she’s building a legacy of innovation and impact.
Breana Wofford Brown | Public Service and Community Engagement
Breana Wofford Brown, Class of 2010, works to improve school environments for teachers and students. After earning her BA in Child Development from Spelman, she earned two master’s degrees in Educational Studies and Organization & Leadership. She now serves as the Founding Associate Director of Academics at Atlanta Unbound Academy, a school that balances mental health and academics. In 2018, she was named Georgia Charter School Association Teacher of the Year for initiatives reducing discipline referrals, increasing teacher retention, and more. Wofford Brown is deeply connected to the school’s mission and advocates for holistic well-being in her career and life.
Brittaney Jewel Bethea | Healthcare and Media
Brittaney Bethea, Class of 2011, is a public health innovator and doctoral candidate whose 15+ year career spans health equity, strategic communications, and digital innovation. From the CDC to the National COVID-19 Resiliency Network, she has led campaigns tackling disparities in HIV/AIDS, cardiovascular disease, and pandemic response. Her startup, Costnip—named a Top 25 Startup by the Atlanta Business Chronicle—leverages price transparency to improve health access. At Georgia State University, her research explores how media influences health behaviors, and her consulting work supports national health campaigns for the U.S Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Assistant Secretary of Public Affairs (ASPA). A proud Spelman alumna, Brittaney bridges public health, technology, and marketing to improve patient-provider engagement and address the social determinants of health as Vice President of Public Health at CMRignite. Whether launching apps, advising federal agencies, or mentoring the next generation of health leaders, she remains committed to advancing wellness through equity, innovation, and community-centered strategy. Brittaney is a visionary leader shaping the future of public health.
Brittany O’Garro | Media and Entertainment
Brittany O’Garro, Class of 2010, is a visionary music executive reshaping the culture of hip-hop and R&B through strategy, storytelling, and impact. As Vice President of Marketing at CMG, she has led some of this era’s most defining artist campaigns, spearheading GloRilla’s historic rise and driving the highest first-week sales for a female rapper in 2024. Brittany’s work champions visibility and equity in a male-dominated industry, amplifying voices from underserved communities while building sustainable careers. Her influence extends beyond the charts; she helped launch G Herbo’s “Swervin’ Through Stress,” a national mental health initiative for Black youth, and actively mentors the next generation of Black music executives. Formerly with Capitol Records, Machine Entertainment, and Agency 99, Brittany’s leadership is rooted in authenticity, integrity, and purpose. Named a 2025 Billboard Women in Music Honoree, she continues to open doors and redefine what it means to lead with intention, excellence, and a commitment to generational change.
Chantalle Cannicle | Business and Entrepreneurship
Chantalle Cannicle, Class of 2018, is a proud Spelman woman who leads with purpose, passion, and people at the center. With a psychology and public health background, she’s built a career in organizational effectiveness, helping Fortune 100 companies navigate change and prioritize inclusion. From managing multimillion-dollar consulting solutions at Slalom and Accenture to co-leading national DEI initiatives, Chantalle brings strategy and soul into every room she enters. Beyond the workplace, she founded the “Love More Judge Less” campaign to raise awareness around teen suicide. She continues serving through Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and the National Coalition of 100 Black Women. Chantalle is a connector, a builder, and a believer in community. Her journey truly reflects Spelman’s legacy: leading change, creating safe spaces, and inspiring the next generation of Black women to do the same.
Dr. Charis Nailah Chambers | Healthcare and Law
Dr. Charis Chambers, Class of 2010, affectionately known as “The Period Doctor,” is a board-certified OB/GYN and nationally recognized pediatric and adolescent gynecology expert. A proud Spelman alumna and graduate of the University of Alabama School of Medicine, she uses her platform to redefine how we talk about menstruation and puberty. Her work has reached global audiences, including her appearance in Me, Period, where she leads candid, cross-generational conversations on menstrual health and self-esteem. Dr. Chambers also authorizes the forthcoming book The Period and Puberty Parenting Revolution, equipping caregivers with tools for empowered education. Beyond clinical practice, she champions equitable healthcare through public speaking, board service, and mentorship. A 2025 Women’s Health Educator Blossom Award winner and Black Health Connect 40 Under 40 honoree, Dr. Chambers is changing the narrative, making reproductive health more inclusive and affirming for young people everywhere.
Dr. Chelsea Crittle | Public Service and Community Engagement
Dr. Chelsea Crittle, Class of 2015, makes a daily “A Choice to Change the World” through her work in diversity, equity, and inclusion across multiple industries. After graduating from Spelman with a B.A. in Psychology, she earned both an M.S. and a Ph.D. in Social Psychology from Tufts University. She currently holds dual roles as Director of Diversity and Inclusion Policy for the House Financial Services Committee and as a Southern New Hampshire University lecturer. In her role on Capitol Hill, she pushes for greater equity within the financial industry while researching DEI in financial institutions. Dr. Crittle has published extensively on racial bias across sectors and, despite challenges from shifting political climates, remains committed to identifying and eliminating systemic barriers. Her work reshapes policy and inspires change, one institution at a time.
Cherise Caldwell-Stubblefield | Arts, Innovation, and Academia
Cherise Stubblefield, Class of 2013, is a dynamic leader at the intersection of education and technology, committed to driving equity, innovation, and lasting impact. As Director of STEM at Breakthrough Public Schools, she leads a network of 10 schools by designing inclusive, future-forward curriculum and professional development for educators. Previously, as Dean of Students at Uncommon Schools, she championed student-led DEI initiatives and fostered a culture of excellence and belonging. Her classroom leadership earned a 95% mastery rate in science, underscoring her commitment to student achievement. In the tech world, Cherise served as a Technical Product Owner at Piedmont Plastics and as a Developer at JPMorgan Chase, where she streamlined technical operations and co-founded “Women WILL” to mentor Spelman students in finance and tech. Proficient in coding, Agile methodologies, and product management, Cherise blends technical expertise with a passion for people, living out Spelman’s motto by transforming systems through education and innovation.
Courtney King | Healthcare and Law
Courtney King, Class of 2014, is a trailblazing attorney dedicated to legal excellence, mentorship, and social impact. A magna cum laude graduate of Spelman College and UC Berkeley School of Law, Courtney currently serves as Associate Counsel at Netflix, where she advises on advertising, privacy, and product development. Her career spans both litigation and transactional law, with previous roles at Foley & Lardner LLP representing entertainment clients and managing venture capital deals. Beyond her legal practice, Courtney mentors aspiring attorneys and regularly speaks at national entertainment law symposiums. She has conducted global human rights research in Tokyo and presented findings to the United Nations. In her local community, she organized a 2022 clothing drive supporting survivors of domestic violence. Featured by Reuters, Blavity, and recognized by the National Black Lawyers Top 40 Under 40, Courtney is making a choice to change the world through advocacy, mentorship, and impact.
Dr. Danielle Dickens | Arts, Innovation, and Academia
Dr. Danielle Dickens, Class of 2009, is a transformative Black feminist social psychologist. Her extensive research explores identity development, representation, and the lived experiences of Black women in higher education and STEM. As guest editor of the Journal of Black Psychology, she led a special issue on Black women’s body image and self-perception and serves as associate editor for Psychology of Women Quarterly. Now an Associate Professor in Spelman’s Department of Psychology, Dr. Dickens has received numerous accolades, including the 2019 Teaching of Psychology of Women Award and the 2020 Psychology of Black Women Foremothers Mentorship Early Career Award. She co-authored Psychology of Black Womanhood, a groundbreaking resource exploring socio-historical and psychological experiences of Black women and girls in the U.S. Through her teaching, research, and mentorship, Dr. Dickens is helping reshape the academic landscape to be more just, inclusive, and empowering.
Dr. Danielle King | Arts, Innovation, and Academia
Dr. Danielle King, Class of 2012, has made “A Choice to Change the World” through her groundbreaking work in Industrial-Organizational Psychology, focusing on resilience, identity, and organizational support for employee thriving. As an Associate Professor at Rice University and Principal Investigator of the WorKing Resilience Research Laboratory, her scholarship, funded by the National Science Foundation, examines how organizational resources help employees navigate racial identity threats. A proud Spelman College alumna, Dr. King is deeply committed to mentorship, guiding students through programs like the Sisters in Psychology Initiative and SIOP’s Diversifying I-O Psychology Program. She has received prestigious honors, including the NSF CAREER Award and the Association for Psychological Science “Rising Star” Award. Dr. King has been a door-opener, demonstrating what is possible through excellence, mentorship, and advocacy. Her tireless efforts continue to elevate the voices and experiences of Black women, making a lasting impact on individuals and the broader field of psychology.
Deloris (Dela) Wilson | Arts, Innovation, and Academia
Deloris “Dela” Wilson, JD, MPA, Class of 2012, is an award-winning social entrepreneur and strategist, and founder of Axle Impact Studio—a global research and design firm based in Washington, DC. Dela has a passion for equity and community building and leads transformative initiatives across governance, strategy, and storytelling. Under her leadership, Axle has served over 35 clients in eight countries, including Bloomberg’s Center for Public Innovation, Johns Hopkins University, Etsy, and the United Negro College Fund. Dela is redefining consulting by integrating the gig economy to empower marginalized professionals, such as transitioning mothers and aging creatives, —while scaling Axle’s global impact. Her work centers on reparative justice, redirecting capital and cultural influence toward underrepresented communities. A graduate of Spelman College, Harvard Kennedy School, and Georgetown Law, Dela has been honored as an Atlantic Fellow for Racial Equity and a Social Entrepreneur-in-Residence at USC Marshall. She continues to inspire a global audience by advocating for creative, inclusive systems change.
Dr. Alexis Clark | Arts, Innovation, and Academia
Dr. Alexis Clark, Class of 2013, is a dedicated educator, author, and advocate who believes in the transformative power of literacy. During the pandemic, she took a bold step to inspire her students by writing her first children’s book, Lexi Dreams!, followed by Lexi’s Determination! Through her work, Dr. Clark not only created much-needed representation in children’s literature but also modeled for her students what can happen when you take change into your own hands. With over 11 years of teaching experience across schools in Florida, New York, and Texas, she remains committed to empowering children through education, leadership, and storytelling. In the classroom and beyond, Dr. Clark has made a deliberate choice to change the world, uplifting young voices and fostering a lifelong love of learning. Her work continues to show that when passion meets purpose, real and lasting change is possible.
Dr. Danielle Winfrey-Dozier | Healthcare and Law
Dr. Danielle Winfrey-Dozier, Class of 2013, is a dual-certified Chiropractor and Holistic Labor Doula committed to transforming maternal health outcomes for Black families. A proud Spelman alumna and Life University graduate, she blends clinical expertise with cultural competency to support families from preconception through postpartum. As the founder and host of The Well Adjusted Woman podcast, she delivers accessible and empowering wellness education to global audiences. In her clinical work with Dominguez Injury Centers and her independent childbirth education practice, Dr. Winfrey-Dozier challenges the structural failures of a healthcare system that too often harms Black mothers and infants. Her mission—rooted in advocacy, alignment, and access—is to keep Black families alive, informed, and thriving. Whether through corporate wellness workshops, bilingual care, or teaching as an adjunct professor, she bridges clinical care with community healing, making “A Choice to Change the World.”
Dr. Kisha Porcher | Arts, Innovation, and Academia
Dr. Kisha Porcher’s, Class of 2008, work lies at the intersection of English studies, culturally relevant teaching, and community-engaged teacher education. Through her scholarship, teaching, and service, she centers Blackness in English education and sustains practices that amplify the voices of Black students and teachers across diverse spaces and contexts. Beyond academia, Dr. Porcher co-created and co-hosts The Black Gaze Podcast with her friend and colleague, a platform that uplifts and encourages Black educators. The podcast, now in its fourth season with over 50 episodes, reaches more than 600 listeners per episode and features conversations with educational leaders, administrators, students, and community pillars about Black education and initiatives. Through her research, public scholarship, and unwavering dedication to empowering others, Dr. Porcher has made a profound choice to change the world, building spaces where Black excellence is recognized, nurtured, and celebrated.
Dr. Nia Heard-Garris | Healthcare and Law
Dr. Nia Heard-Garris, Class of 2007, is a trailblazer who epitomizes “A Choice to Change the World.” As a pediatrician, researcher, and advocate, she has carved out an invaluable space in medicine to tackle society’s most urgent issues. Through her Arise Health Lab, she investigates how adversity, racism, systemic inequities, and structures of empowerment shape health outcomes. Dr. Heard-Garris has been a keynote speaker and contributed to platforms like CNN, NPR, and The Lancet to spotlight the effects of systemic racism on Black children’s health. Committed to growing her impact, she recently earned her M.B.A. from Yale University. Her leadership extends nationally, serving on boards such as the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. Dr. Heard-Garris stands as a powerful force for equity and innovation, leaving an indelible impact on the future of medicine and public health.
Dr. Erika King | Healthcare and Law
Dr. Erika King, Class of 2006, is a dedicated pediatric dentist and the first Black woman to serve as President of the Florida Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, representing over 700 practitioners. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery from Meharry Medical College and her B.S. in Biology from Spelman—both prestigious HBCUs. Dr. King specializes in treating pediatric patients of all ages, including those with special needs, and completed her residency at Harlem Hospital Center, focusing onsedation dentistry and full mouth rehabilitation. Passionate about mentorship and increasing representation in dentistry, she actively supports aspiring dental professionals through application coaching, networking, and community outreach. Her involvement in national organizations like the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry underscores her commitment to clinical excellence and inclusive leadership.
Farrin Hymon | Media and Entertainment
Farrin Hymon, Class of 2014, is an award-winning media producer and visionary founder of FAHRENHEIT 411 Entertainment and Media Company. With over 14 years of experience, Farrin is committed to reshaping how Black women are portrayed on screen and behind the scenes. From producing content across BET, VH1, OWN, and Paramount to launching the HBCU Campus Pop-Up Initiative, she uses her platform to amplify marginalized voices and empower emerging creatives. Farrin also founded the Blaze Along Your Dreams Foundation and is a strategic consultant for Y-Women Survive Breast Cancer LLC, supporting health equity for Black women. Named one of HBCU Buzz’s Top 30 Under 30 and a featured speaker at Spelman’s 143rd Reunion Convocation, Farrin is building a legacy of power, progress, and representation through intentional storytelling and purpose-driven leadership.
Dr. India Collier | Healthcare and Law
Dr. India Collier, Class of 2010, is a distinguished orthodontist and one of the youngest Black women to serve as a Trustee At-Large for the American Association of Orthodontists—the nation’s largest dental specialty organization. A proud Spelman graduate, she earned her DDS from The Medical College of Georgia’s College of Dental Medicine, ranking among the top three in her class. Today, she champions inclusivity in dentistry and advocates for women and early-career professionals through national leadership and mentorship. From organizing cleft care fundraisers as a dental student to shaping policy that supports practitioners and patients nationwide, Dr. Collier exemplifies what it means to make the “Choice to Change the World.
Janelle Richards | Media and Entertainment
Janelle Richards, Class of 2009, is a trailblazing journalist committed to justice, cultural connection, and representation. As a Senior Producer at NBC Nightly News, she leads high-profile coverage of issues including the Tyre Nichols case, maternal health disparities, and the Jackson water crisis Her global reporting includes stories from Ghana, Kenya, and Cuba. A Spelman and Columbia Journalism School graduate, Janelle has earned Emmy and Murrow Award nominations and NAACP Image Awards recognition. She also co-led NBC’s Black Employee Network and sits on Columbia Journalism’s Board of Visitors. Through her impactful reporting and editorial leadership, Janelle ensures that historically underrepresented voices are heard and respected. Her work is journalism in the service of truth and change.
Dr. Janiece Sharmell Glover | Healthcare and Law
Dr. Janiece Sharmell Glover, Class of 2014, is a biomedical scientist and advocate for health equity. A two-time graduate of the Medical University of South Carolina, she earned her Ph.D. in Microbiology and now serves as a Clinical Microbiology Fellow at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Her research on the gut microbiome, antimicrobial resistance, and host-pathogen interactions—including Acinetobacter calcoaceticus—has informed the understanding of intestinal inflammation and infectious disease. As Diversity & Inclusion Chair of MUSC’s Graduate Student Association and mentor in the SC-PEACH initiative, she’s empowered the next generation of scientists. Her work has received national honors, including the ASIP Trainee Scholar Award and several first-place research awards. Through research and representation, Dr. Glover is changing the future of medicine.
Dr. Jelissa Mooyin | Healthcare and Media
Dr. Jelissa Mooyin, Class of 2012, is a physician, educator, and medical communicator dedicated to bridging the gap between healthcare and the public. A Clinical Instructor at UCLA, she teaches medical students and residents while caring for patients in hospitals and Santa Monica nursing homes. A frequent contributor to ABC News, Good Morning America, and The Dr. Oz Show, Dr. Mooyin simplifies complex medical topics for national audiences. A Spelman and Meharry Medical College graduate, she co-created a health literacy app that became a finalist in the American Medical Association Innovation Challenge. Her work embodies innovation, empathy, and impact, whether in the clinic or on screen.
Jordan Webber Edwards | Healthcare and Law
Jordan Webber Edwards, Class of 2011, is a powerhouse legal professional and proud Spelman valedictorian. A Partner at Alston & Bird, she represents Fortune 500 clients in litigation, government investigations, and healthcare-related class actions. Her expertise has helped achieve landmark wins, including defeating class certification in major cases. Recognized by Chambers USA and Best Lawyers, Jordan is also a dedicated mentor, DEI advocate, and community leader—serving with The Links, Inc., the Atlanta Bar Association, and United Way. A graduate of Emory Law, Jordan was named to the Atlanta Business Chronicle’s 2025 “40 Under 40.” Her impact spans courtrooms, boardrooms, and communities.
Judge Katherine N. Thomas | Healthcare and Law
Class of 2014, Judge Katherine Thomas made history as the youngest elected judge in Texas and the first Black woman to preside over the 184th District Court in Harris County. A Spelman and Howard University School of Law graduate, she began her career as an Assistant District Attorney in Houston. Now on the bench, Judge Thomas is known for her integrity, fairness, and community advocacy. She frequently welcomes young Black students into her courtroom to inspire civic engagement. Despite facing racism, ageism, and sexism, she serves with distinction, reflecting Spelman’s excellence through her leadership, courage, and commitment to justice.
Kelly Harper Lee | Public Service and Community Engagement
Kelly Harper Lee, Class of 2012, is a nationally recognized strategist advancing equity for underserved communities. As Community Affairs Lead for McDonald’s across eight states, she leads major philanthropic initiatives. A Spelman alumna, Kelly launched Spelman’s American Sign Language program and went on to lead community impact for the WNBA’s Atlanta Dream, launching STEM clinics for over 1,500 girls. At McKinsey, she managed a $30M global employment initiative. Honored as 2019 D.C. Teacher of the Year and a finalist for National Teacher of the Year, Kelly’s work has been recognized by the White House and the U.S. Secretary of Education.
Dr. Kenya Andrews | Arts, Innovation, and Academia
Dr. Kenya S. Andrews, Class of 2017, is a computer scientist and justice-driven researcher whose work champions equity in technology and healthcare. A proud Spelman College alumna and recent Ph.D. graduate from the University of Illinois, Chicago, her research in algorithmic justice addresses intersectional bias in life-critical systems, particularly healthcare and public policy. Dr. Andrews’ contributions include developing the first causal graph to detect testimonial injustice in medical records and collaborating with IBM Research to create tools tackling racial bias in media and dermatology. She also influenced vaccine distribution policy in Ohio through optimization modeling. As Working Group Lead for the EAAMO Bridges Program, she leads efforts to decolonize STEM curricula. Her mentorship has helped students secure prestigious scholarships like the Gates Millennium. Dr. Andrews, a recipient of fellowships from Google, GEM, and NSF, ensures technology advances equity for historically marginalized communities.
Kerri-Ann T. Thomas (KTT) | Arts, Innovation, and Academia
Kerri-Ann T. Thomas, Class of 2010, is an accomplished educator, author, and entrepreneur whose career reflects an unwavering commitment to equity, leadership, and transformation. She has served as principal and superintendent, and now leads as CEO of the fastest-growing charter management organization in the Southeast. As an author, she has written Roll Call, a celebration of identity and names, and The Coffee Shop, which introduces children to gentrification. Beyond education, Thomas is a strategic investor and owner of Brooklyn Tea in Atlanta, a vibrant community hub offering jobs and mentorship to local students. Her lifelong work exemplifies Spelman’s mission of “A Choice to Change the World.”
Kimberly Dawn Hogg Massey | Business and Entrepreneurship
Kimberly Massey, Class of 2008, has built a career using her global corporate experience to uplift underserved communities and build purposeful brands. She began on Wall Street as a Sales Trader at Citigroup and transitioned into brand marketing leadership roles at PepsiCo and Kimberly-Clark. At PepsiCo, she was recognized as a “40 Under 40” Rising Star and a “Top Woman in Marketing & Advertising” by Black Enterprise. She later became the first Global Chief Marketing Officer at Lifeway Christian Resources. Today, as founder of Brighter Dawn LLC, she advises small businesses, merging corporate strategy with community impact and embodying Spelman’s legacy of service and leadership.
Kristen Rome | Public Service and Community Engagement
Kristen Rome, C’2008, is a defense attorney, advocate, and proud New Orleans native working to build a fairer justice system—especially for children. After earning her political science degree from Spelman, she co-founded a criminal defense practice with her father, focusing on ending juvenile life without parole. Her global perspective includes earning an English Law Certificate from the London School of Economics and teaching constitutional law in Shanghai, China. She is also a certified holistic doula and a Project Butterfly New Orleans mentor. Now at the Louisiana Center for Children’s Rights, Kristen continues to hire and mentor Spelman students, opening doors for the next generation. Whether in court or the community, she leads with heart and purpose.
Lauren Sills | Public Service and Community Engagement
Lauren Sills, Class of 2010, launched her career through Teach for America, mentoring students in special education. She now serves as Head of Operations at the NBA Foundation (NBAF), where she has helped allocate over $140 million to 240 nonprofits supporting Black youth. Sills has also designed and led signature initiatives such as the NBA HBCU Fellowship, All-Star Pitch Competition, and Solve-A-thon—programs driving innovation and social transformation. Her leadership continues to uplift communities, expand access, and drive systemic change.
Leanna Lucinda Pearson | Public Service and Community Engagement
Leanna Lucinda Pearson, C’2010, is a public servant, educator, and strategist focused on advocacy and equity. A former special education teacher and adjunct professor, she has consistently championed inclusive education. Her legislative work with the New York State Assembly and the Brooklyn Borough President’s Office reflects her passion for civic engagement and amplifying community voices. She has empowered youth through nonprofits like the AnBryce Foundation through leadership and academic development. As founder of LLP Strategies, she advises organizations on strategic planning, storytelling, and equity-driven impact. Her career exemplifies Spelman’s legacy—uplifting communities and creating lasting change.
Randi Mallori Adkins-Warren | Healthcare and Law
Randi Adkins-Warren, Class of 2007, is a legal leader and corporate generalist with deep experience in enterprise-wide legal strategy. She currently serves as Corporate Counsel at Aflac, a Fortune 100 company, where she brings strategic judgment, legal expertise, and integrity to every project. As a member of The Links, Incorporated and a 2025 Atlanta Business Chronicle “40 Under 40” honoree, Randi’s influence extends beyond corporate corridors into community service. The daughter of Spelman alumna Linda Warren (Class of 1973), Randi’s commitment to Spelman’s legacy was instilled early, and she now serves as a powerful reflection of that legacy.
Dr. Rhonia Brooks-Gordon | Healthcare and Law
Dr. Rhonia Brooks-Gordon, Class of 2010, is a board-certified OB/GYN devoted to eliminating health disparities. Raised by Jamaican immigrant parents who instilled a strong work ethic and moral grounding, she found her calling at Spelman. She has led multiple community service initiatives and is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. After Spelman, she earned her M.D. from The Ohio State University College of Medicine and has remained focused on maternal health equity. Whether safely delivering babies, counseling patients, or serving in her local community, Dr. Brooks-Gordon lives Spelman’s daily mission—making “A Choice to Change the World.”
Samaiya Butler | Public Service and Community Engagement
Samaiya Butler, C’2020, is an educator, organizer, and advocate for community transformation. After earning her M.A. from the University of Chicago’s Urban Teacher Education Program, she founded the Re-Up Our Future Scholarship under R.A.G.E. (Resident Association of Greater Englewood), where she now works full-time. The program has awarded over $65,000 and includes mentorship to support long-term student success. She also developed the Re-Up Our Future Series, exposing middle schoolers to HBCU culture, entrepreneurship, trades, and wealth-building strategies. Samaiya’s work centers education, equity, and opportunity—paving the way for sustainable futures.
Trisha Nicolas | Media and Entertainment
Trisha Nicolas, Class of 2013, is a media executive, journalist, and social entrepreneur transforming the entertainment landscape. She has worked across the media ecosystem for over a decade, disrupting norms and expanding representation. At Snapchat, she led multicultural programming and created unscripted shows like Off the Leash with Megan Thee Stallion, Level Up with Steph Curry, The Fight Inside with Ryan Garcia, and Coming Out with Manny MUA, reaching 250+ million daily users globally. Passionate about disrupting exclusionary systems, Trisha uses storytelling as a tool for empowerment, legacy building, and social impact.
Dr. Zerita Christine Buchanan | Healthcare and Law
Dr. Zerita C. Buchanan, Class of 2010, is a nationally recognized dentist, public health expert, and changemaker redefining oral healthcare through equity, education, and innovation. The first African-American woman appointed to the Harvard School of Dental Medicine Board, she shapes global education, research, and clinical strategy. As Listerine’s National Brand Ambassador, she led the WHOA Collection campaign, raising over $300,000 for Black pre-dental students through her nonprofit, Increasing Diversity in Dentistry (IDID). She also founded The Dental Dreams, LLC – Dental Assisting School, training over 50 HBCU students for careers in dentistry. Currently, she serves as President of Health Equity & HBCU Engagement at BlueSKY Collaborative Partners and as Assistant Director of IDID. A Spelman College Healthcare Hero and ADA “10 Under 10” honoree, Dr. Buchanan is building a healthcare workforce that reflects the communities it serves.
*Please note that 40 Under 40 Spotlight is in no particular order.