A lifelong entrepreneur, Tony established himself as a successful business owner early in his career. He currently owns and operates multiple ventures, including three automotive shops and a food truck at the age of 27!
Rooted in values of family, integrity, and a strong work ethic—principles instilled in him by his father, who introduced him to the automotive industry—Tony is dedicated to giving back. He is passionate about sharing his story, insights, and roadmap to success to inspire and mentor the next generation of aspiring entrepreneurs.
Dr. Dawn Blackwell is a transformational leader, school principal, speaker, and CEO who helps leaders build cultures of excellence without sacrificing humanity.
Area of Guidance: helping leaders lead with heart, strategy, and impact
Dr. Ramon Goings is Professor in the Language, Literacy, and Culture PhD Program at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. He is an expert on Black male student success K-PhD, diversifying the teacher workforce, and doctoral student success.
Los Angeles native and Tulane University ’21 graduate with a degree in Film and Communications, whose career in entertainment began in production in New Orleans before moving back to LA to work for two agents at CAA in the Unscripted TV department. She now supports the VP of Nonfiction Series, Sports, Podcasts, and Live at Netflix—bringing industry experience and a love of storytelling.
Area of Guidance: College transferring / careers in entertainment
Jonas Harper holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and a Master’s degree in Global Marketing Management from Boston University, where he competed as an NCAA Division I basketball player. He currently plays professional basketball, with experience in Australia and Germany, while also building IsoScoring, a basketball education platform focused on helping players improve through film breakdowns and scoring education. His passion for basketball, marketing, and entrepreneurship continues to drive him as he pursues opportunities both on and off the court.
Trisha Jones, The Career Interpreter, builds people AND the spaces they get paid in: coaching students and young professionals into confident careers and founders, and as COO of VenU2Go, creating the brick-and-mortar access that lets entrepreneurs sell where the customers already are.
Born in Los Angeles and raised in New Canaan, Connecticut, Shannon Smith earned his undergraduate degree in Finance and MBA from Clark Atlanta University. After graduation, he began his professional career at the Boeing company in Finance & HR. While grateful for the experience, he realized his true passion was in storytelling and the people who bring stories to life. In the Fall of 2025, Smith was promoted into Elevate, the agency’s professional development program for emerging agents and executives.
Area of Guidance: HBCU’s / Student-atheltes / careers in entertainment
