Sharla Roberts

 Chief Procurement Officer at the City of Chicago Department of Procurement Services

 Sharla Roberts is a results-driven thought leader with over 30 years of economic development experience in her roles in the public and private sector. As Commissioner of the Department of Procurement Services, Roberts oversees a budget of nearly $14 million, leading the city’s contracting, certification, and compliance operations. Under Roberts’ innovative guidance, DPS maintains the highest commitment to diversity, transparency, and innovation while continuously expanding the resources and programs that empower citizens to become involved in the contracting opportunities available at the City. Roberts previously served as the director of procurement diversity at the University of Illinois, where she successfully increased the university’s diversity spending from $50 million to $113 million over a five-year period. Prior, she served as the chief diversity officer at the State of Illinois Department of Central Management Services. Roberts also holds several prestigious memberships, including serving as chair of the Certification and Compliance committees of the State of Illinois Business Enterprise Council. Roberts established the Diverse Supplier Development Program at the University of Illinois empowering diverse businesses and creating a more inclusive economy through capacity building. She also created the first “sheltered market” contract exclusively for minorities and women in the area of information technology in the State of Illinois. Roberts was one of Crain’s Chicago Business Notable Leaders in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for 2023.

  

 

 

 

Gary Hall

Partner and Co-President, Head of Infrastructure & Public Finance at Siebert Williams Shank & Co., LLC and The Clear Vision Fund

Gary Hall is a Partner and President, Head of Infrastructure & Public Finance at Siebert Williams Shank & Co., LLC (“Siebert"), the nation's largest minority-owned investment bank. He is a Principal and member of the Investment Committee for Clear Vision Fund, Siebert’s impact investment fund. Hall is also a Partner in American Triple I Partners ("Triple I"), an infrastructure private equity firm that focuses on transportation, energy, knowledge and information systems, and smart city investments. Mr. Hall’s over 35-yr professional career includes positions in investment banking, private equity, law and government.

 

  

 

 

Hermene Hartman

Distinguished Media Pioneer & Founder at N'DIGO

Hermene Hartman is one of the most significant and influential Black women in media and American publishing. She is a rounded media personality addressing the soul, spirit and sensibility of America with insight, curiosity, historical context, wit, and reality. Her behavioral science education is replicated in her writings and commentaries. Hartman holds four college degrees (sociology, philosophy of education, psychology and business). She was Vice Chancellor of External Affairs at City Colleges of Chicago, the nation's third-largest community college system and a professor of behavioral science disciplines. She provided editorial commentary for WVAZ, Chicago's top station for 9 years. You can listen to the thought-provoking social thoughts on the audio. Presentation topics include: The Minority Notion, Sexual Harassment, Branding, Success is a Style, Designing You, Re-Engineering Yourself, Race Relations, Marketing Your Business, Planning an Incredible Event, Media Relations, and Media Training Workshops. Her commentaries transform mindsets (literally). She broadens America's conversation to include dialogue and analysis, offering deep thoughts and opinions from entertainment, business, media, the political scene, and controversial topics surrounding racial and social issues. For 20 years, Hartman produced the NDIGO GALA, a must-attend top event in Chicago with name entertainment. The Foundation provided 302 scholarships to beginning college students. Hartman can share event planning tips on how to make your event spectacular, memorable, and one of a kind. As an intense yet thoughtful interviewer, Harman's style has been described as somewhere between Barbara Walters and Diane Sawyer, always asking the "right questions" and providing insightful comments. Hartman is often called upon by media outlets like The O'Riley Factor, CNBC, CNN, FOX, WVON, ABC, NBC, WGN, National Public Radio, Radio and TV to comment on politics and election night analysis. Her opinions on current social issues are provocative.

 

 

 

Jacques Philoctete

Private Banker

Jacques Philoctete serves as a Banker in the Chicago office of J.P. Morgan Private Bank, where he collaborates with accomplished individuals, foundations, and multi-generational families to enhance their financial strategies and align their wealth with their goals and priorities. Jacques leverages the full capabilities of J.P. Morgan in a highly personalized manner, coordinating resources and expertise to address clients' sophisticated needs in investments, tax planning, trusts and estates, lending, philanthropy, and banking. He believes that the right financial path is unique to each individual's circumstances and future aspirations. Prior to joining J.P. Morgan, Jacques was a Private Wealth Advisor at Goldman Sachs, following his role in the Global Markets division, where he focused on financial valuation reporting for institutional clients. Beyond his professional endeavors, Jacques is dedicated to uplifting underserved communities. During his college years, he founded Help Youth, a grassroots organization providing academic and emotional support to underprivileged young adults in the Caribbean. Jacques holds a B.A. in Economics from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and actively contributes to the community by serving on the board of Management Leadership for Tomorrow, the Associate Board of Ambassadors Chicago of the American Cancer Society, and the NextGen Board of the Chicago Council on Global Affairs.

 

 

 

Jezieel Cortes

Deputy Procurement Officer at the City of Chicago Department of Procurement Services

 

Jezieel Cortes is a Deputy Procurement Officer for the City of Chicago’s Department of Procurement Services (DPS). In his capacity as Deputy Procurement Officer, Mr. Cortes manages and directs personnel in the Design and Construction Unit who are engaged in purchasing and contract related processes for several City Departments, while enforcing the City’s procurement rules and regulations. He also acts as liaison between DPS and City departments on design and construction contracts related to infrastructure development within the City. Additionally, Mr. Cortes assists departments in utilizing the City’s Small and Mid-Sized Business Initiatives and the Target Market program to increase equitable contracting opportunities for small and diverse firms. Mr. Cortes was instrumental in developing new and streamlined procurement processes to reduce timelines for vendor payments. Mr. Cortes has worked for the City of Chicago for more than ten years in a variety of roles. He previously served as a Contracts Administrator at the Chicago Department of Transportation and an Assistant Procurement Officer for the Aviation Unit at DPS. He is fluent in Spanish and holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago.

 

 

 

John Roberson

Incoming Executive Vice President at the Obama Presidential Center

 

John Roberson currently serves as Incoming Executive Vice President of the Obama Presidential Center. In this role, he oversees the Center’s operations as in preparation for opening in 2026. Prior to joining The Obama Foundation, John was the Chief Operating Officer for the City of Chicago, managing the day-to-day operations of 37 city departments with a $16.2 billion budget. John’s extensive career spans both the public and private sectors. He has served as Deputy Chief of Staff to Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, Chief of Staff to 17th Ward Alderman David Moore, Managing Principal at Electronic Knowledge Interchange, and VP for Strategic Partnerships at the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce. In his time with the City of Chicago under former Mayor Richard M. Daley, John held several senior leadership positions, including Commissioner of the Department of Aviation, Commissioner of Buildings, and Chief of Development for the Chicago Housing Authority. He also served as the first Executive Director of the Department of Construction and Permits. An Air Force veteran, John is actively engaged in community service, currently serving as Chairman of the Local School Council of Lindblom Math and Science Academy on Chicago’s South Side. He holds a degree from Roosevelt University and is a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. John is the father of three children: John, Jasmine, and Joelle.

 

 

 

Joyce Johnson

Chairwoman and Chief Investment Officer at Pacific Gate Capital

 

Joyce has been an active investor in the global debt and equity marketplaces for more than 38 years managing over $ 10.0 billion in global investments. Joyce possesses a solid understanding of business and financial operations, mergers and acquisitions, turnaround investing and has a proven successful track record of creating and growing shareholder value. She has served on 30 boards in her career in many capacities including Chairman, Lead Director and Audit Committee Chairman. Joyce currently serves as Chairman and Chief Investment Officer for Pacific Gate Capital a value-oriented fund that raises capital from S. Korea to invest in U.S. private credit managers. She also serves as Chairman of MokoMoto, Chairman of the Stakeholders Engagement Committee and on the Audit Committee of Kymera International. She also serves as Lead Director and on the Audit Committee and Nominating and Governance Committee of public companies Ayr Wellness AYRWF and chairs the Audit Committee of NewLake Capital Partners NLCP. Joyce’s prior investment experience include senior management positions at Citibank, ING, Relativity Capital (a women and minority owned firm) and Cerberus Capital Management, a $66.0 billion investment firm. While employed at Cerberus, Joyce founded JJM, LLC a $300.0 million private equity fund that successfully invested in women and minority owned companies. Ms. Johnson has received numerous awards including the Finance Alumni of the Year at the University of Denver, The World Business Alliance Leader Award in Dubai, UAE, The Trailblazer Award for T-Lab in Detroit, MI and the Civic Leader Award in Milwaukee, WI. Joyce is a Henry Crown Fellow of the Aspen Institute. Joyce is committed to serving the community as member of the boards of Hope Chicago, the Chicago Sinfonietta and is Chairman Emeritus of the DuSable Museum. Ms. Johnson received her BS in Finance from the University of Denver.

 

 

 

JuanPablo Prieto

Director of Diversity Programs and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Liaison Officer for the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA)

JuanPablo Prieto, the proud son of Colombian immigrants, currently serves as the Director of Diversity Programs and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Liaison Officer for the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA). He is a native Chicagoan and a proud Chicago Public Schools graduate. Mr. Prieto joined the CTA in 2014 and, since 2018, oversees the CTA’s DBE, Small Business Enterprise (SBE), Labor Compliance, and Workforce Initiatives Programs. He and his team are responsible for certifying DBE & SBE firms, connecting DBE & SBE firms with potential contracting and subcontracting opportunities, monitoring contracts totaling over $9 billion to ensure compliance with CTA’s goals, and connecting dislocated and disadvantaged workers, union apprentices, and individuals from economically disadvantaged areas (EDAs) with training and employment opportunities on CTA contracts. JuanPablo demonstrates a passion for providing resources and tools to small businesses for growth and development and connecting job seekers with career opportunities. Based on his and his team’s efforts, since 2018, DBEs have been awarded over $949 million and residents of EDA have earned over $51 million in wages. Mr. Prieto serves as a Board Member for La Casa Norte, Latino Worker Safety Center, and the Spanish Coalition for Housing, where he is the Board Treasurer. He was recognized by Negocios Now 2018 40 Under 40 and awarded the 2020 Diversity Award from the Hispanic American Construction Industry Association (HACIA), the Construction Industry Conference 2023 Vanguard Award, the 2024 B2Gnow Advocate Award, included in Negocios Now 2024 & 2025 Who’s Who Chicago Hispanic Power, and Mass Transit 2025 40 Under 40. Mr. Prieto holds a Bachelor of Arts in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from DePaul University and is an alum of the CTA’s 2019 Leadership Development Program, the Chicago Latino Caucus Foundation’s 2020 Leadership Academy, the 2023 Metropolitan Leadership Institute Next Generation, and the University of Chicago’s 2024 Civic Leadership Academy. JuanPablo resides on the northwest side of Chicago with his wife, three children, and dog.

 

 

 

Karen Freeman-Wilson

President and CEO of the Chicago Urban League

Karen Freeman-Wilson began serving as President and CEO of the Chicago Urban League in January 2020. She brings a passion for equity and social justice to the organization, which works to advance economic, educational, and social progress for African Americans through direct service and advocacy. Having served in the public arena most of her professional life, Freeman-Wilson has deep experience in addressing issues that impact urban communities. She was mayor of her hometown of Gary, Indiana, from 2012 through 2019. She was the first female to lead the city of Gary and the first Black female mayor in Indiana. Freeman-Wilson previously served as Indiana Attorney General, Director of the Indiana Civil Rights Commission, and presiding judge of the Gary City Court. She also served as Executive Director of the National Drug Court Institute and CEO of the National Association of Drug Court Professionals. Freeman-Wilson is a graduate of Harvard College and Harvard Law School. She chairs the Cities for Financial Empowerment and sits on the boards of the National Policing Institute; Center for Community Progress; Sandy Hook Promise; and the Lyric Opera of Chicago. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc and the Links, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

Keiana Barrett

CEO of the Business Leadership Council

Keiana Barrett has over 25 years of executive leadership, government affairs, equity and inclusion, crisis communication, community engagement and project management experience. She has been celebrated for her innovative design and execution of integrated communications/cultivation strategies, economic mobility programming and leadership development modules.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lakisha Hillard, M.Ed.

Regional Diversity & Inclusion Compliance Manager at Walsh Construction

LaKisha Hillard, M.Ed., is a seasoned professional with more than 25 years of experience advancing strategic initiatives in workforce diversity, community engagement, and higher education. She currently serves as Regional Diversity & Inclusion Manager for Walsh Construction’s Midwest Transportation Group, where she focuses on building inclusive, high-performing project teams. In her role with Walsh Vinci TCP – JV on the $2.8 billion Red Line Extension Project for the Chicago Transit Authority, LaKisha oversees Diversity Initiatives, Compliance, Community Relations, and Outreach. Her leadership ensures that the project not only meets compliance goals but also delivers meaningful opportunities for local communities. Previously, LaKisha held leadership roles at Chicago State University, City Colleges of Chicago, South Suburban College, and Von Material Services, LLC. In these positions, she spearheaded ethics and compliance programs, cultivated strategic partnerships, and championed equitable opportunities in both education and construction. She also has professional experience in television production, having worked as a general assignment news reporter in the Detroit, Michigan area. LaKisha earned her Master’s in Education from American Intercontinental University and a Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy & English from Illinois State University. Most recently, she completed an Executive Leadership Certification in Diversity and Inclusion from Indiana University. 

 

 

 

Pepper Miller

Author, Award-winning Speaker, Thought Leader, Recognized Market Researcher, and Consultant

Pepper Miller is a seasoned market research expert focusing on Black American insights. With over two decades of experience, Pepper has been at the forefront of helping major brands and society understand and effectively engage Black America. She combines her deep expertise in market research with a passion for educating and inspiring others. Her work has helped shape the understanding and approach to multicultural marketing for numerous brands and agencies, making her a sought-after expert in the field. Pepper has talked with thousands of Black Americans about their beliefs, feelings, thoughts, and usage of products and services for a variety of companies, including AARP, American Cancer Society, CNN, McDonald’s, Procter and Gamble, Pfizer, Ulta Beauty, Unilever, and The Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Pepper co-authored with the late Herb Kemp, What’s Black About It? and authored Black (Still) Matters in Marketing. Pepper’s third book, Let Me Explain Black, Again: Exploring Blind Spots and Black Insights for Marketing to Understand Black Culture and Perspectives, launched in April 2023. All three books are considered the most important references to Black consumer insights by many business leaders in the marketing industry. Pepper can help audiences think differently about Black America and dig deeper into the Black American psyche by talking about both simple ideas and taboo topics.

 

 

 

Roderick Warren

Executive Director of the Department of Technology and Innovation for the city of Chicago

Rod Warren is the Executive Director of the Department of Technology and Innovation for the city of Chicago. With a profound understanding of Chicago's governmental operations, Rod spearheads technology initiatives that equip the city with cutting-edge solutions. His leadership fosters strategic partnerships aimed at enhancing technology systems and services across all city agencies, further solidifying Chicago's position as a technological leader on the national stage. Rod also serves as the technology advisor for the Chicago Taskforce for Innovation and Technology. Rod holds a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science from Robert Morris University, as well as degree in IT Security Management from DePaul University. Beyond his professional endeavors, Rod is a licensed ordained deacon and minister of the Apostolic Church of God - Chicago, where he serves on the official board and various auxiliaries, embodying a commitment to serving his community. Additionally, Rod is a board member of I AM A GENTLEMAN INC., an organization dedicated to mentoring and fostering leadership skills among young men aged 13-21. His passion for empowering individuals extends beyond his professional and community roles; Rod finds joy in encouraging, motivating, and inspiring people from all walks of life. He believes in the transformative power of technology to empower individuals and communities. Outside of his work and community involvement, Rod enjoys traveling, reading, and actively supporting individuals in their personal and professional growth journeys. With a profound love for technology and a dedication to empowering others, Rod is committed to driving positive change and innovation in both the city of Chicago and beyond.

 

 

 

Ronald Milsap

Director, U.S. Zero Barriers to Business, Business Banking at BMO Harris

Ronald L. Milsap is Director, U.S. Zero Barriers to Business, where he is responsible for managing and leading programming for under-represented and underserved, specialty programs, as well as developing specialized strategy, customized products, training and education across BMO Bank, N.A. U.S. footprint. Ron has over 17 years of blended banking experience in commercial underwriting, business banking relationship management and sales, and retail banking management. Prior to joining BMO, Ron served as the CRA Officer for Providence Bank & Trust overseeing its lending, services, and investments into low-to-moderate income communities. Ron is passionate about serving the diverse needs of communities, non-profits and small businesses and leveraging his skills to deliver innovative, industry-specific financing and cash management solutions to help BMO clients realize their vision for success. Ron earned his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from Morehouse College in Atlanta, GA. Ron is a Leadership Greater Chicago Fellow and a graduate of the Chicago Urban League’s IMPACT Leadership Development Program. Ron serves on the boards of Invisible Institute, E.G. Woode and the South Shore Chamber of Commerce. Ron is an advisory board member of Community Desk Chicago and a volunteer and mentor with several youth-based organizations. Ron currently resides in Chicago with his wife, son, and daughter.

 

 

 

 

Steven Hunter

Partner at Quarles & Brady, LLP

Steven Hunter, an experienced trial lawyer with first-chair experience representing companies in the U.S. and abroad, is the Chicago office chair of the Litigation & Dispute Resolution Practice Group. He has handled all aspects of dispute resolution - from discovery and motions practice to arbitration, mediation, jury trials, bench trials and appeals - representing clients in a wide variety of disputes, including:

• Commercial litigation, including cross-border and international disputes
• Regulatory litigation
• Construction and real estate litigation, including commercial leasing disputes
• Trust and estate litigation
• Personal liability litigation

Steven zeroes in early on the real pressure points in a dispute so as not to get mired in minutiae. He strives to be thoughtful and reasonable and to resolve disputes without litigation whenever possible. When litigation is necessary, though, he brings extensive courtroom experience to trial preparation and the negotiating table. He is frequently invited to speak about trial practice, legal ethics, pro bono work and diversity in the legal profession.

 

 

 

TaNesheha Marshall, P.E.

Vice President of the Red Line Extension Project at Chicago Transit Authority (CTA)

TaNesheha Marshall, P.E. serves as the Vice President of the Red Line Extension Project at Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) where she manages this $5.7 Billion project. She previously served as Vice President of Capital Construction and managed over $1 Billion Annually in capital improvement projects. TaNesheha was the 2024 keynote speaker at the African American Contractors Association 30th Annual Gala, “Breaking Down Barriers and Building Bridges”. TaNesheha was the 2023 honoree for the SOS Children’s Villages, Evening of Hope. She has presented and has been recognized for her contributions at several events such as, COMTO National Conference in Los Angeles, Federation of Women Contractors, Southside Builders Association, Billionaire Luncheon with Black Women in Construction, WTS Rising Star Panel and a host of other agencies to bring awareness of CTA’s Red Line Extension Transit Equity Project. Prior to joining CTA, TaNesheha was in the transportation industry for over two decades. TaNesheha was the Assistant Resident Engineer for the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) on the $975 Million Dan Ryan Expressway Reconstruction Project. In July 2006, she transitioned to Project Director at the Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) and supervised staff of 500 employees for traffic improvements and special events throughout the City of Chicago. In July 2015, she was promoted as the first woman to serve as Deputy Commissioner of In-House Construction for Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) and within two years, she was promoted to Managing Deputy Commissioner of Operations where she also added Electrical Operations and Safety Division under her direct management. TaNesheha serves with progressive leadership experience and a strategic approach on communication and transportation advocacy. TaNesheha’s educational background includes a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Mississippi, alma mater of James Meredith. She is a well-established Professional Engineer and provides mentorship to professionals within the transportation industry. She has served on the Chicago Chapter Advisory Board for Women’s Transportation Seminar (WTS) which is an international non-profit organization dedicated to creating a more diverse, inclusive and equitable transportation industry through the global advancement of women.

 

 

 

 

Tyronne Stoudemire

Global Head of Strategic Inclusion Partnerships at Hyatt Hotels Corporation

Tyronne Stoudemire, Global Head of Strategic Inclusion Partnerships at Hyatt Hotels Corporation, is a trailblazer in fostering inclusivity and cultural competence across the globe. With over a decade of service at Hyatt, Tyronne has collaborated with the senior leadership team to design and implement transformative strategies that embed DEI into the company’s culture, talent development, and marketplace impact. His innovative work supports Hyatt’s portfolio of industry-leading brands and reflects the organization’s commitment to progress, innovation, and excellence over its 60-year history. Born in Detroit, Michigan, Tyronne’s early experiences navigating cultural differences shaped his passion for breaking barriers. Growing up as the only Black student in a predominantly White school, he faced adversity that instilled in him a profound understanding of diversity and inclusion. Tyronne’s journey, from Detroit to his global DEI leadership role, is a testament to resilience, faith, and his commitment to fostering unity.Tyronne’s debut book, Diversity Done Right: Navigating Cultural Difference to Create Positive Change in the Workplace, debuted at #1 on Amazon’s bestseller list and continues to be a top resource for business leaders, HR professionals, and DEI practitioners. The book offers real-world examples, tested frameworks, and practical strategies for addressing organizational and societal group dynamics. Tyronne Stoudemire is not just a leader but a changemaker. From his role at Hyatt to his board service and community engagement, he exemplifies what it means to navigate diversity with purpose. His visionary leadership and unwavering commitment continue to inspire individuals and organizations to embrace inclusivity and equity as foundational pillars of success.