Upon graduating from prestigious NYU with a business degree, Mark Ingram’s fashion career began at the legendary Fifth Avenue specialty stores Bonwit Teller and Bergdorf Goodman. As a young merchandising executive at these venerable institutions in the early 80’s, Mark was exposed to the world’s top designers and arbiters of style.

From Harlem to the Hive: The Wright Family’s Journey at Lomar Farms

After decades in the fast pace of New York City, Brett and Yvonna Kopacz-Wright decided to take a leap—one that would completely transform their family’s way of life. The couple, both deeply rooted in creativity and culture, left their beloved Harlem brownstone in search of something simpler, more grounded, and more connected to nature. Their search led them to an unexpected treasure: a nearly 200-year-old farmhouse on five acres of land, just 20 miles outside the city.

Curator Paul Alexander and Actress Maya Days in conversation with Harriette Cole on Women in Jazz — celebrating Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Lena Horne, and Billie Holiday, as well as the reopening of The Kaye Playhouse and the addition of the Billie Holiday Papers to Hunter College’s Jazz Archive.

Rosemarie Ingleton is more than just the Medical Director of Ingleton Dermatology—she's the visionary behind its success. Dr. Ingleton has built a national reputation in both general and advanced cosmetic dermatology as the go-to dermatologist for many high-profile individuals.

Jeffrey Banks is an internationally recognized fashion designer. His consummate personal taste and way of putting clothes together have perennially earned him a spot on the “International Best Dressed” list. His professional style combines genuine talent for design and merchandising with an acute understanding of what contemporary men really want to wear.

Dionne Williams is owner of D. Williams Public Relations & Event Management Group which specializes in public relations, brand strategy, experiential services, content creation, influencer marketing and event management.

Dr. Terence Lester is an author, activist, and founder of Love Beyond Walls. His upcoming book, Dropout to Doctorate, launches September 9th, sharing his journey from struggle to scholarship. His daughter, Zion Lester, co-authored the children’s book Zion Learns to See at age 15 with her father, bringing a fresh generational perspective to their shared mission and showing how young voices can spark meaningful change.

Pamela McBride has dedicated her career to fiercely advocating for others. As the Director of Equal Employment Opportunity in the largest division of an organization with more than 40,000 employees and 2,800 executives and managers, Pamela provides strategic leadership for Equal Employment Opportunity, Reasonable Accommodation, Anti-Harassment, and External Civil Rights.

Michelle Maros is a mindfulness coach, self-love expert, and the co-founder of the nonprofit organization Peaceful Mind Peaceful Life, dedicated to helping people cultivate happiness, fulfillment, and inner peace.

David Homan is the founder and CEO of Orchestrated Connecting, a global community of connectors; Orchestrated Opportunities, an impact-focused advisory firm; and SOAR CONNECT, a start-up focused on the strength of authentic relationships.

Maurice Williams is the author of Bastard: From Prisoner to Professor, a powerful memoir that chronicles his transformation from a life marked by poverty, crime, and incarceration to one of redemption, reflection, and purpose. His story resonates as a testament to resilience and the human capacity for change.

Danessa Myricks is a self-made beauty visionary whose impact runs deep across artistry, inclusivity, and innovation. Originally a nursing assistant turned single mom, Danessa’s pivot into makeup artistry began when she was laid off from a job that published hair and beauty magazines. Driven by passion, she self-educated in makeup techniques, photography, and product science — ultimately turning her creativity into a career.

Danessa Myricks is a self-made beauty visionary whose impact runs deep across artistry, inclusivity, and innovation. Originally a nursing assistant turned single mom, Danessa’s pivot into makeup artistry began when she was laid off from a job that published hair and beauty magazines. Driven by passion, she self-educated in makeup techniques, photography, and product science — ultimately turning her creativity into a career.

Katherine Melchior Ray is a global marketing leader, consultant, keynote speaker, author, and educator.

Mary Fisher has spent a lifetime giving voice to the voiceless. From the hush of hospices to the halls of power, she’s proven that one woman’s courage can yield change.

Phylicia Rashad will speak more with us about her career and all the things that led her to where she is now, with accomplishments in TV, film, theater, education, and more. She’ll share the keys to her success and remind us of the importance of being of service, honoring heritage, and prioritizing well-being.