Turner Station Business Woman
Courtney Speed is the founder and president of the Henrietta Lacks Legacy Group and a well-known businesswoman in Turner Station, Maryland. A dedicated community leader, Speed is passionate about preserving the legacy of Henrietta Lacks and educating the public about her contributions to science and the rich history of Turner Station.
Professor of English, Morgan State University, Maryland
Dr. Adele Newson-Horst is the Interim Chair and Professor in the Department of English and Language Arts at Morgan State University. With a Ph.D. from Michigan State University, an M.A. from Eastern Michigan University, and a B.A. from Spelman College, Dr. Newson-Horst specializes in African American literature.
Owner, Jones Destination, Maryland
Mrs. Carlisa Jones is the owner of Jones Destination, a travel agency based in Maryland. With over 15 years of experience in the travel industry, she specializes in group cruises, particularly to destinations like the Bahamas and Bermuda.
Professor, Johns Hopkins University
Dr. Andrew J. Cherlin is the Benjamin H. Griswold III Professor Emeritus of Public Policy in the Department of Sociology at Johns Hopkins University. His research interests include the sociology of the family, demography, and social policy, areas in which he has made significant scholarly contributions. Dr. Cherlin is widely recognized for his expertise in family dynamics and social policy, influencing academic thought and public discourse on these issues.
Community Member, Retired Assistant Principal
Turner Station Community
Ms. Rehema Raheem is a committed community member, actively involved in local initiatives and supporting efforts that promote community development and cultural heritage. Her contributions strengthen the social fabric and educational values within her community.
Morgan State University
Yvette D. Racks is a member of Morgan State University and a former Toastmasters International member, skilled in communication and leadership.
Morgan State University Archivist
Dr. Ida E. Jones is the Associate Director of Special Collections and University Archivist at Morgan State University. A distinguished archivist and historian, she earned her Ph.D. in American History from Howard University in 2001. Dr. Jones is an expert in African American history and has made significant contributions to public history and archival work.
Journalist, Georgetown University
Chelsey Cox is a journalist, Georgetown University, covering politics and the economy for CNBC. She has reported for USA Today on major events and serves as Social Media Director for the Henrietta Lacks Legacy Group.
Department of English, Morgan State University
Natasha Holder-Cumberbatch is the Administrative Coordinator for the Department of English and Language Arts at Morgan State University
Family Member, Henrietta Lacks
Mrs. Shirley Lacks is a family member of the late Henrietta Lacks, whose immortal cells revolutionized medical research. Mrs. Lacks is actively involved in preserving and promoting Henrietta Lacks’ legacy, contributing to educational and community initiatives that honor her family’s impactful history.
Morgan State University, Admin
Mrs. Yvette Racks serves as an Administrative Assistant at Morgan State University and is involved in efforts honoring the legacy of Henrietta Lacks. She contributes her organizational skills to support initiatives that celebrate Lacks’ impact on medical research and community awareness.
Professor, Morgan State University; VP, STAR Scholars, Maryland
Dr. Krishna Bista is a Professor of Higher Education in the Department of Advanced Studies, Leadership and Policy at Morgan State University, Maryland
Associate Professor, Virginia Tech
Dr. Paula Marie Seniors is an associate professor of Africana Studies in the Virginia Tech Department of Religion and Culture.