Secretary-General of the United Nations,
1997-2006; Nobel Peace Prize Recipient, 2001; Board of Directors, United Nations Foundation; Chairman of the Board of the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa; Li Ka Shing Professor, Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy

As the world’s most prominent diplomat, Kofi Annan has been a powerful voice on issues of human rights, international cooperation, and in the fight against HIV/AIDS. A skilled leader during a difficult era, Secretary-General Annan provides powerful insights into the challenges facing the international community, and the role of the United Nations in achieving global peace and security.

Artistic Director, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater; Kennedy Center Honoree (1999); National Medal of Arts Winner (2001); Emmy Award Winner

Judith Jamison - American dancer, Choreographer and Artistic Director of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater - is a legendary icon in the world of the performing arts. Ms. Jamison, who as a dancer with the troupe, from 1965 to 1980, became the most stellar of modern dance's female performers, was appointed Artistic Director of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in December 1989 at the request of her mentor, Alvin Ailey, who personally chose her to succeed him before his untimely death. In her two decades at the helm of one of the most respected dance companies in America, Ms. Jamison has successfully kept the Alvin Ailey brand alive. In 2009, Ms. Jamison was listed in the TIME 100: The World’s Most Influential People, and honored at "The BET Honors," an event that recognizes the lives and achievements of leading African-American luminaries.

Judith Jamison was the main honoree at the recent White House ceremony honoring dance and ballet hosted by First Lady Michelle Obama. "For years, I have gone to watch Judith's company wherever and whenever I can," said Michelle Obama. View a video of the First Lady's full remarks honoring Judith Jamison (fast forward to 3:50).

WATCH Diva of Dance: Judith Jamison's Amazing Career where CNN's Fredricka Whitfield talks to Jamison about her amazing career and what's next.  Ailey Troupe Celebrates Jamison's Leadership. Read article...

First African American Woman in Space; Founder and President of Two Medical Technology Companies

Dr. Mae C. Jemison broke more than the sound barrier in 1992 when she climbed aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour and became the first woman of color to travel into space - she made history! Now, Founder and President of two technology companies, the space flight was just one of a series of accomplishments for this dynamic woman.

World Famous Singer, Actress, and Television Star; Spokeswoman for the American Diabetes Association; Ordained Minister

Della Reese is a name synonymous with entertainment par excellence. Known for her unique singing style and her starring roles on some of the most successful television programs of the last thirty years, Ms. Reese always delivers an engaging and inspirational message. In 2002, she announced that she suffers from Type-2 Diabetes. Today, Ms. Reese acts as spokeswoman for the American Diabetes Association, traveling the United States to raise awareness about the disease.

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, 1977-1979; United States Congressman, 1973-1977; Mayor of Atlanta, 1982-1990; Co-Founding Principal and Chairman, GoodWorks International

Ambassador, Congressman, Mayor, humanitarian, ordained minister, international businessman, and sports enthusiast, Andrew Young has been serving and shaping our country for almost 50 years.

Visionary Innovator Merging Global Brands and Superstar Musicians

When Fortune 500 companies need to reenergize or reinvent a lagging brand, they call Steve Stoute. In addition to marrying cultural icons with blue-chip marketers (Beyoncé or Tommy Hilfiger's True Star fragrance, and Justin Timberlake for "lovin' it" at McDonald's), Stoute has helped identify and activate a new generation of consumers.

Considered “A McKinsey of Pop Culture,” Stoute's reputation for revolutionizing the relationship between global brands and superstar musicians has been praised by both Forbes Magazine and Bloomberg Businessweek. He has been featured in The New York Times, Adweek, in HBO's documentary The Black List, and in Target's DREAM.DARE.DO campaign for Black History Month. He was inducted into the Advertising Hall of Fame in 2008 and is a featured speaker at conferences around the country.

Founder and President, Good Food Organics; Presidential Candidate for the Democratic Nomination, 2004; United States Ambassador, 1999 – 2001; United States Senator, 1992 – 1998

A woman of extensive achievements and a pioneering entrepreneur, Carol Moseley Braun has established herself as an agent for change passionate about preserving the American Dream for the next generation. Carol Moseley Braun combines philosophy, history, and policy to provide a unique perspective on various topics.

Weatherman and Host of NBC’s Today Show; Bestselling Author; Multimedia Entrepreneur

Al Roker brings to the podium the same charisma and sense of humor that have propelled him to number one in Americans' hearts. Whether emceeing events or delivering a closing keynote, his ability to improvise and sling out his legendary one-liners are a huge hit with audiences.

Pioneering Producer; Rapper and Pop Phenomenon; Advocate for Social Causes

It is a rare and significant occasion when a musical artist captures and expresses the sentiments of a generation and expands his horizons to make an impact on society, creating a union between music and life. As CEO and Founder of Bad Boy Entertainment, a pioneering producer, rapper, pop phenomenon and advocate for social causes, Sean Combs has become one of today’s most extraordinary, accomplished and unforgettable talents.

Robert M. Beren Professor of Economics, Harvard University; Economist Magazine: "One of the Top Young Economists in the World"; FORTUNE Magazine: "40 under 40 Most Influential People in Business" ; Collaborator on the Bestselling Book Freakonomics ; Affiliate, National Bureau of Economic Research

A collaborator on the Bestselling Book Freakonomics, Roland Fryer has received praise from an array of sponsors – from Universities and Lecture Series to Insurance and Financial groups – for his engaging perspective on an array of economic issues facing our society. Specifically, he focuses macro-solutions by influencing and changing individual behavior. Professor Roland Fryer has briskly established himself as an important player in the field of economics. Not only was Fryer named a "Rising Star" by Fortune magazine and featured in Esquire’s "Genius Issue," but his own work has been profiled in The New York Times, Washington Post, the Economist and the Boston Globe.

He rigorously and innovatively tests theoretical solutions to social problems on a scale previously unseen. As faculty director of Harvard’s Education Laboratory, and with large-scale funding from such partners as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the Carnegie Corporation of New York, Mr. Fryer tests what will influence change for an entire system or class of problems - such as school performance.

Founder of Brazile and Associates, LLC; Vice Chair of Voter Registration and Participation at the Democratic National Committee ; “100 Most Powerful Women in Washington, D.C” (Washingtonian) ; “50 Most Powerful Women in America” (Essence)

Donna Brazile is one of the best known, most influential African American women in modern American political life. She was named one of the “100 Most Powerful Women in Washington, D.C.,” by Washingtonian Magazine and one of the “50 Most Powerful Women in America” by Essence Magazine. Ms. Brazile is also a weekly contributor and political commentator on CNN's Inside Politics and American Morning and is the Vice Chair of Voter Registration and Participation at the Democratic National Committee.

Former U.S. Representative (D), Florida's 17th congressional district, 2003-2011; Former Chairman, Congressional Black Caucus Foundation

Kendrick Meek served Florida for eight years in the U.S. House of Representatives. Meek represented the largest district of Haitian immigrants in the United States, and championed the developing Caribbean Region while becoming a spokesman for President Clinton in the efforts to rebuild Haiti following the 2010 earthquake.

A former Police Officer he has been a hero and champion of law and order. Today he continues to speak on behalf of the Clinton Foundation on efforts to re-build Haiti and help to build economic opportunities especially as they relate to America’s emerging immigrant majorities.

3-Time Republican Presidential Candidate

Alan Keyes' powerful conservative message resonates for Americans from all walks of life and every geographic region, who share his vision of a morally based government founded on the principles embodied in our nation's Declaration of Independence.

Correspondent for ABC News' 20/20

An award winning correspondent for ABC News’ 20/20, Deborah Roberts is a versatile and highly respected journalist with a broad range of expertise. Ms. Roberts speaks from experience, amassed over her fifteen-year career covering vital stories around the world.

9-Time Olympic Gold Medalist

During his career Carl Lewis won 9 Olympic gold medals and attended four Olympic games, earning himself international respect and a place in history as one of the truly great athletes of all time.

Host of HBO’s REAL Sports With Bryant Gumbel

Bryant Gumbel is a highly respected broadcaster and has spent several decades hosting a wide variety of shows, giving him a birds-eye view not only of the media but also of American sports culture.

Emmy Award-Winning Sportscaster

Considered one of the best hosts in sports television, Greg Gumbel’s standout work in the busy world of sports broadcasting has made his face, name and voice as familiar as any in the industry.

Executive Director RAINBOW/PUSH Wall Street Project

A more than 30-year banking veteran, Emma currently serves as the executive director of the Wall Street Project, an organization that challenges corporate America to end the multi-billion dollar trade deficit with minority-owned businesses. The Wall Street Project uses research, education and negotiation to persuade companies to close the gap by hiring and promoting more minorities to corporate boards and awarding more contracts to minority businesses.

Renowned Civil-Rights Leader

Rev. Al Sharpton is one of America’s most-renowned civil rights leaders. Sharpton’s strong commitment to equality and progressive politics has had an irrefutable impact on national politics.

Former Drug Czar and Member of the President's Cabinet; Former New York City Police Commissioner; Former Mayor and Police Chief of Houston; Former Public Safety Commission of Atlanta; Former University Professor and Scholar; Chairman and CEO of Brown Group International

Dr. Lee Brown's life has been one of vision, tenacity, commitment, hard work, and social consciousness. He has spent his professional career working to empower people and communities and to improve their safety, security, and quality of life. In his speeches, Dr. Brown both educates and motivates. In doing so, he draws upon his experience as a law enforcement leader, Cabinet member, educator, mayor, and author. His peers recognized his leadership when he was elected President of the International Association of Chiefs of Police and to the Advisory Board of the United States Conference of Mayors.

Personal & Professional Transformation Expert; Author ; Consultant

Ona Brown delivers delicious recipes for success, which surpass the appetites of hungry, engaged & inspired clients. She specializes in identifying the missing ingredients that are required in order to manifest a yummy life!

Emmy Award-Winning Broadcaster; Founder, Daddy’s Promise

“Hard hitting, inspiring, intelligent, honest, and direct,” these are some of the words used to describe the style and approach of Emmy Award-Winning broadcaster Ed Gordon. Today, he advocates for strong, positive relationships between African-American dads and daughters.

Leadership Expert; Entrepreneur; Bestselling Author; Educator

Stedman Graham delivers his powerful message throughout the country and abroad to corporations, government and civic organizations, colleges and universities, community groups and professional associations. Any business or professional interested in improving their performance and sustaining achievement will benefit from participation in an SGA Success Process Speaking Event or Seminar.  Graham’s audiences include world leaders, corporate and business professionals and diverse organizations. Each Keynote Address and Seminar is tailored for the particular audience in attendance or the specific needs or goals set out by the client.

Civil Rights Lawyer; Winner, Presidential Citizens Medal

Jack Greenberg is one of the leading civil rights lawyers, having argued the landmark Brown vs. Board of Education case and nearly 40 other cases in front of the Supreme Court.

Mentor ; Author; Actor; Activist

Hill Harper has won legions of admirers for his soulful portrayal of "Dr. Sheldon Hawkes" on the hit drama series CSI: New York. A talented actor, Harper's passion for his craft is surpassed only by his dedication to inspire America's youth. A firm believer that identity is not defined by skin color or circumstance, the charismatic Harper encourages audiences to "take your biggest dream, and double it."

New York Times Op-Ed Columnist

Bob Herbert joined The New York Times as an Op-Ed columnist in 1993. His twice a week column comments on politics, urban affairs and social trends.

Chosen as one of the best books of the year by the The New York Times, Chicago Tribune, USA Today, Washington Monthly, and Booklist, Ron Suskind’s book, A Hope in the Unseen: An American Odyssey from the Inner City to the Ivy League chronicles undergraduate Cedric Jennings' transition from inner-city high school achiever in Washington, D.C., to culture-shocked survivor at an Ivy League university.

Pulitzer Prize Winning Journalist; Member of Chicago Tribune’s Editorial Board

Clarence Page, winner of the Pulitzer Prize, sits on the Chicago Tribune’s editorial board and writes a syndicated column, providing incisive and insightful commentary on American society and its politics.

Founder and President of CURE

Star Parker founded the Coalition on Urban Renewal & Education, CURE, to provide a national voice of reason on issues of race and poverty in the media, inner city neighborhoods, and public policy.

Actress; Social & Environmental Activist ; Singer

In addition to being know as a multiple Emmy and Golden Globe Award nominated actress, Gloria Reuben is dedicated to advocating for several causes. Gloria is successful on the speaking circuit, where her focus is on the environment, HIV/AIDS, human rights, women’s issues and the arts. She has also become a fixture in Washington, D.C. where she has been lobbying for these causes.

Chief Executive Officer, Johnson Publishing Company, Inc.; White House Social Secretary, 2009-2010

Desiree Rogers, chief executive officer of Johnson Publishing Company, Inc., has earned a reputation as one of America’s most successful businesswomen. With a Harvard Business School degree and stellar business experience, Rogers has redefined every leadership position that she has held while playing a major philanthropic role in the communities in which she has lived.  Rogers is widely credited for her ability to identify and motivate talent to challenge existing assumptions using brand discipline and superior communication skills thus creating new pathways for success.

Author, Walk in My Shoes and Jazzocracy

Kabir Sehgal is the godson of Ambassador Andrew Young and co-author of Walk in My Shoes: Conversations Between a Civil Rights Legend and His Godson on the Journey Ahead. At the podium he discusses a variety of issues including civil rights, mentorship, the economy and faith.

Silicon Valley Success Story; Undersecretary for Technology, 1999 – 2001

More than just a technologist, businesswoman or global leader, Dr. Cheryl Shavers is an inspiration, a role model for individuals and organizations faced with seemingly insurmountable odds.

Executive Director of the Spelman College Center for Leadership & Civic Engagement; Former CEO of Business and Professional Women/USA

Dr. Jane E. Smith is the Executive Director of the Spelman College Center for Leadership & Civic Engagement and is one of the leading African-American women in higher education. She has also served as the Chief Executive Officer of Business and Professional Women/USA. Every audience that has ever seen Dr. Jane Smith’s presentation, has reported that she has been the “highlight of the conference.”

Bestselling Author

TIME Magazine named Rebecca Walker one of the fifty most influential American leaders under forty because of her transformative views on race, gender, sexuality and power.