One of the most admired and respected leaders in America today, General Colin Powell
offers his thoughts on domestic and world affairs, leadership, and a vision for tomorrow. The four-star general served as the first African-American chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and was appointed Secretary of State by President George W. Bush. Drawing on examples learned as a leader on the world stage and as an eyewitness to leadership in action, he illustrates precisely what it takes to be a leader — providing strategies for “taking charge” during times of crisis and great change.
Despite having her right leg amputated at age five, Bonnie St. John became the first African-American ever to win medals in Winter Olympic competition. She's achieved the highest levels of success in a variety of endeavors throughout her life. Hailed as “one of the five most inspiring women in America," she challenges people to question their limitations. Audiences leave St. John's spirited presentations with the ultimate competitive advantage: the confidence to challenge their comfort zones — and win.
Earvin "Magic" Johnson inspires audiences with the story of his stunning ascent, his philosophy for success, and his vision for a bright and promising future. As Chairman and CEO of Magic Johnson Enterprises, he helps provide high-quality products and services that focus primarily on ethnically diverse and underserved urban communities. Moving from the basketball court to the boardroom, he parlayed the skills and tenacity he acquired on the court into a winning formula for his successful business ventures.
Tony Dungy, a former NFL defensive back, advanced through the coaching ranks following his playing career. He earned his first head coaching position in 1996 with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and over the next 13 seasons, including seven years with the Indianapolis Colts, he racked up 148 total victories. The first African-American head coach to lead his team to a Super Bowl championship, Dungy shares with audiences the importance of goals, integrity, discipline, and overcoming adversity.
Michele Thornton Ghee has worked at some of the world’s most powerful media brands — like CNN, A&E, The History Channel, and BET. She was instrumental in the rebranding of the Centric TV network as ‘The First Network Designed for Black Women” and then again into BET Her. Thornton Ghee helps organizations leverage cultural relevance, understand the importance of inclusion, and create smart programs that helps them connect authentically to consumers.
Maj. Gen. Charles Bolden charted a pioneering career in the U.S. Marine Corps and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). He flew over 100 combat missions in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, and orbited the Earth on four separate occasions as a NASA Space Shuttle pilot and commander. In 2009, President Barack Obama asked Bolden to leave his position as CEO of his aerospace, national security and leadership consulting firm to serve as the 12th Administrator of NASA. He was the first African-American confirmed by the U.S. Senate to take on the role, a precedent that Bolden insists is only important if he is one day followed by women or other persons of color. With a focus on the future, he tells young people that he is just an ordinary person who has been blessed with opportunities to do extraordinary things as he challenges audiences to consider what can be accomplished when people dream big dreams together.
One of the most widely discussed political figures in America today, the Honorable Eric H. Holder, Jr. has been at the intersection of the law and public policy for over 30 years. As the nation's first African-American Attorney General and a leading progressive voice, he has been instrumental in shaping the direction of the U.S. on a number of critical issues. No stranger to controversy, Holder has demonstrated a willingness to express strong opinions, to engage in meaningful dialogue and to achieve lasting results. He provides audiences with valuable insight on a wide range of leadership issues, including conflict resolution, negotiation, and collaboration.
Carla Harris has extensive industry experience in the technology, media, retail, telecommunications, transportation, industrial, and healthcare sectors. In Aug. 2013, she was appointed by President Barack Obama to chair the National Women's Business Council. Today, at Morgan Stanley, she's responsible for improving the access to capital for female and multicultural founders. For the impact she's had over a 30-year career, she's received numerous accolades, including Fortune's list of "The 50 Most Powerful Black Executives in Corporate America," and Essence's list of "The 50 Women Who Are Shaping the World."
Explore our full roster of Black History Month speakers, and contact us to discuss booking one of these formidable leaders for your next event.
