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Meet the Board of Directors

BDDR Headshot

Brionna Davis-Reyes, a PhD graduate and HBCU alumnae completed her post-doc at Yale University. She served as the president of the Yale Black Post-doc association, and continues to inspire the next generation of scientists in her daily life.

Maynard Okereke

Maynard Okereke, better known as the Hip Hop M.D., graduated from the University of Washington with a degree in Civil Engineering. His passion for science and entertainment, along with his curiosity for new innovation has taken him through an incredible life journey. Noticing a lack of minority involvement in the S.T.E.M. fields, he created Hip Hop Science with the goal of encouraging minorities and youth to pursue more advanced career paths.

Markesha Grant

My name is Kesha Grant. I am a registered nurse. I completed my prerequisite classes at Stillman College. I received my ADN from The University of West Alabama and my BSN from The University of Alabama. I am currently the Clinical Supervisor for two outpatient Northside Hospital clinics. In my free time I enjoy shopping, hanging with my line sisters, sleeping, and shopping some more.

Dr. Jalaal Hayes

My Name is Dr. Jalaal Hayes. I love to educate and empower the youth through STEM innovation. I am a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated and I aspire to achieve in every endeavor and moment of life.

Jasmine Robbins

My Name is J. Robbins. I am a young business professional who loves animals. I was born & raised in Mobile, AL I attended Xavier University of Louisiana and Stillman College where I got my BS in business administration with a concentration in management. I’m a highly experienced and capable business management professional. My hobbies are napping, reading, painting and all manor of performing arts I am especially partial to Broadway musicals. I’m a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority Inc.

Professional

I'm Kendra, a proud HBCU graduate! Ever the music enthusiast, I demonstrated my love for all things Hip hop and neo-soul by taking a stab at being a high school rapper. I was a better musician than rapper, so I focused my efforts in band. I went to Stillman College on a trombone scholarship, all while maintaining an interest in STEM! I got my PhD in cancer bio from UAB, and did my postdoc at The University of Chicago. I'm a Slam Poet, a proud member of AKA and Tau Beta Sigma Band Sorority.

Brandi Turner

My Name is Brandi Turner. I am an educator and author from Midfield, Alabama. When I'm not being a library media specialist, I spend my time working out, listening to Ari Lennox, eating ice cream and watching Living Single. As a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., I enjoy being of service to all mankind, working with the youth, and motivating women to follow their dreams.

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