The Indianapolis Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. is proud to recognize outstanding male leaders in our community whose work enhances lives, creates opportunities, and contributes to a better Indianapolis. As an essential part of our Bridgerton Season 2 fundraising initiative, the Kings Court plays a vital role in supporting our mission. To align with the sorority’s fundraising goals, each King has been tasked with raising funds to further our impact.
Your generous contribution will help us achieve these goals while honoring the remarkable men who are making a difference in our community. Each King has demonstrated leadership, service, and a commitment to uplifting others.
We invite you to review the Kings' bios below to learn more about their impact and select the King you wish to support in their friendly competition. Your contribution in purchasing a table, becoming a sponsor, donating to DREF or becoming a Mask Sponsor will also allow you to indicate the total contribution toward a King. Help us raise funds for our youth.
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Meet The Kings
(To see each King's bio, click the "+" sign next to the name to expand and view full information)
Devon Davis
"Devon Davis is Vice President at Bose Public Affairs Group, where he assists clients across a range of industries in managing legislative initiatives and developing comprehensive public policy strategies. His work includes conducting in-depth legislative reviews, meeting with policymakers, and advising clients on key regulatory issues.
Before joining Bose, Devon worked with the Marion County Board of Voter Registration, where he administered voter outreach and education programs and helped oversee elections. He also served in the Office of Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett as a legislative affairs liaison, monitoring state and local policy developments and advising on city issues. Additional roles include public policy associate at Samuel Solutions Group and legislative assistant for the Indiana House of Representatives.
Devon began his career as a legislative intern with Bose Public Affairs Group in 2016, supporting the firm during the Indiana legislative session.
In recognition of his leadership and service, Devon was a finalist for Junior Achievement’s Indy’s Best and Brightest Award for 2025 and received the Center for Leadership Development’s Up and Coming Achiever Award in 2024.
Devon holds a master’s degree in public policy analysis from IUPUI’s Paul H. O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs and a bachelor’s degree in political science from Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University.
Committed to community service, Devon serves on various boards in the community those being, the Indianapolis Neighborhood Housing Partnership, Boys & Girls Club of Indianapolis, Martindale Brightwood Community Development Corporation, and Providence Cristo Rey College & Career Preparatory High School Workforce Development Board. He’s also serves as an ambassador for the 2025 American Cancer Society Discovery Ball and a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
~Statement from Soror Tavonna Harris Askew
"Devon's unique combination of legislative expertise, academic background, and community involvement make him an outstanding professional in the field of public affairs. His ability to navigate complex political landscapes while maintaining a focus on community betterment positions him as a rising star in the industry."
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Before joining Bose, Devon worked with the Marion County Board of Voter Registration, where he administered voter outreach and education programs and helped oversee elections. He also served in the Office of Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett as a legislative affairs liaison, monitoring state and local policy developments and advising on city issues. Additional roles include public policy associate at Samuel Solutions Group and legislative assistant for the Indiana House of Representatives.
Devon began his career as a legislative intern with Bose Public Affairs Group in 2016, supporting the firm during the Indiana legislative session.
In recognition of his leadership and service, Devon was a finalist for Junior Achievement’s Indy’s Best and Brightest Award for 2025 and received the Center for Leadership Development’s Up and Coming Achiever Award in 2024.
Devon holds a master’s degree in public policy analysis from IUPUI’s Paul H. O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs and a bachelor’s degree in political science from Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University.
Committed to community service, Devon serves on various boards in the community those being, the Indianapolis Neighborhood Housing Partnership, Boys & Girls Club of Indianapolis, Martindale Brightwood Community Development Corporation, and Providence Cristo Rey College & Career Preparatory High School Workforce Development Board. He’s also serves as an ambassador for the 2025 American Cancer Society Discovery Ball and a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
~Statement from Soror Tavonna Harris Askew
"Devon's unique combination of legislative expertise, academic background, and community involvement make him an outstanding professional in the field of public affairs. His ability to navigate complex political landscapes while maintaining a focus on community betterment positions him as a rising star in the industry."
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James A. Duke
James A. Duke serves as Director of Supply Chain for Indiana University Health, where he leads the Supplier Diversity Program and Environmental, Sustainability, and Governance (ESG) initiatives. Since joining IU Health in 2010, James has increased the organization’s diverse supplier spend by $12 million annually. His commitment to supplier diversity is evident through active involvement in organizations such as the National Minority Supplier Development Council, Mid-States Minority Supplier Development Council (which named IU Health 2022 Corporation of the Year), National Association of Women Business Owners, Women’s Business Enterprise Council, and the Hispanic Business Council.
James is also deeply engaged in youth and community development. He serves on the national board of The 100 Black Men of America, Inc. as At-Large Director of Operations and is the Immediate Past President and CEO of the 100 Black Men of Indianapolis. Since joining the organization in 2001, he has led initiatives in program creation, organizational rebranding, and infrastructure development. Under his leadership, the group secured a $1.2 million sustainability grant from the Lilly Endowment and awarded over $1 million in scholarships through its Beautillion Militaire Scholarship Program.
James is a graduate of Morehouse College, holding a degree in Business Administration, and is an alumnus of the Stanley K. Lacy Leadership Class XXXIX. He is active with Eastern Star Church, UNCF, the Martin University National Center for Racial Equity and Inclusion Advisory Board, the Conference Board Supplier Diversity Council, and the African American Coalition of Indianapolis. In 2022, he was honored as a Distinguished Alumnus of Lawrence Township Schools.
~Statement from Soror Cheryl Wilkerson
“James Duke has been an advocate for young men in the Indianapolis community for many years. He is an educated, Christian man who believes in the importance of the youth in this community and their future… His efforts are driven by the motto, "What they see is what they'll be"... And I proudly nominate him for the King's Court.”
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James is also deeply engaged in youth and community development. He serves on the national board of The 100 Black Men of America, Inc. as At-Large Director of Operations and is the Immediate Past President and CEO of the 100 Black Men of Indianapolis. Since joining the organization in 2001, he has led initiatives in program creation, organizational rebranding, and infrastructure development. Under his leadership, the group secured a $1.2 million sustainability grant from the Lilly Endowment and awarded over $1 million in scholarships through its Beautillion Militaire Scholarship Program.
James is a graduate of Morehouse College, holding a degree in Business Administration, and is an alumnus of the Stanley K. Lacy Leadership Class XXXIX. He is active with Eastern Star Church, UNCF, the Martin University National Center for Racial Equity and Inclusion Advisory Board, the Conference Board Supplier Diversity Council, and the African American Coalition of Indianapolis. In 2022, he was honored as a Distinguished Alumnus of Lawrence Township Schools.
~Statement from Soror Cheryl Wilkerson
“James Duke has been an advocate for young men in the Indianapolis community for many years. He is an educated, Christian man who believes in the importance of the youth in this community and their future… His efforts are driven by the motto, "What they see is what they'll be"... And I proudly nominate him for the King's Court.”
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Lamont Hatcher
Lamont Hatcher is a seasoned technology leader with over 20 years of experience in the IT industry. He is the CEO of AIS, a technology solutions company he founded in 2012 with a mission to help small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) leverage technology to grow and achieve their goals. Under his leadership, AIS has experienced tremendous growth, successfully assisting hundreds of businesses in implementing effective technology strategies.
Lamont began his career as a Document Processing Specialist with USA Track & Field before transitioning into network engineering with REAL Solutions Group Ltd. In 1999, he was named IT Director for Memorial Clinic of Indianapolis, where he oversaw the organization’s computer systems, servers, and networks. His leadership and technical expertise led him to become Vice President of Technology at Esource Resources in 2011.
Lamont holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management from Indiana University Bloomington and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Indiana Wesleyan University. He is also certified by the Project Management Institute as a Project Management Professional (PMP).
~Statement from Soror Ma'at Lands
Lamont Hatcher, CEO of AIS, is a visionary, inclusive, and community-driven leader. He champions diversity in tech, mentors youth, and fosters business growth through innovation. He is deeply involved in his community through service on multiple community boards and as a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.
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Lamont began his career as a Document Processing Specialist with USA Track & Field before transitioning into network engineering with REAL Solutions Group Ltd. In 1999, he was named IT Director for Memorial Clinic of Indianapolis, where he oversaw the organization’s computer systems, servers, and networks. His leadership and technical expertise led him to become Vice President of Technology at Esource Resources in 2011.
Lamont holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management from Indiana University Bloomington and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Indiana Wesleyan University. He is also certified by the Project Management Institute as a Project Management Professional (PMP).
~Statement from Soror Ma'at Lands
Lamont Hatcher, CEO of AIS, is a visionary, inclusive, and community-driven leader. He champions diversity in tech, mentors youth, and fosters business growth through innovation. He is deeply involved in his community through service on multiple community boards and as a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.
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LeRoy Lewis III
LeRoy Lewis III is a distinguished leader, dedicated community advocate, and dynamic voice for civic engagement based in Indianapolis. As the Director of Community and Media Engagement for the Indiana State Fair, LeRoy plays an instrumental role in elevating the fair’s profile and fostering meaningful connections with diverse audiences. His leadership has strengthened the fair’s presence throughout Indiana, promoting inclusivity and broadening community outreach.
Prior to his current role, LeRoy made significant contributions in healthcare through his positions in Provider Relations with Eskenazi Medical Group and in Community Engagement at Eskenazi Health. In these roles, he leveraged his communication expertise and leadership to enhance community partnerships and improve access to healthcare services.
LeRoy’s commitment to servant leadership was shaped early through his participation in the LEAD 2007 program and further refined as a member of the Stanley K. Lacy Executive Leadership Series (Class XXXIX). These experiences deepened his understanding of cultural sensitivity, humility, and the importance of empowering underrepresented communities.
Beyond his professional endeavors, LeRoy serves on the board of the African American Legacy Fund of Indianapolis, championing initiatives that uplift minority leaders and amplify diverse voices. His passion for fostering equitable opportunities is reflected in his active community involvement and advocacy.
LeRoy balances his leadership roles with his personal passions. He coaches football at Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School, prioritizes health and wellness through daily fitness, and is a devoted father to his son, LeRoy Lewis IV. Together with his wife, Maggie Lewis, LeRoy continues to serve and inspire through numerous volunteer leadership roles across the city.
~Statement from Soror Shondria Seaton
“LeRoy Lewis III is a dedicated leader and advocate for Indianapolis... A devoted husband to Maggie Lewis and father to LeRoy Lewis IV, he embodies servant leadership in all aspects of life… LeRoy’s proven leadership, professional achievements, and unwavering dedication to Indianapolis communities make him a deserving nominee for the King’s Court Award.”
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Prior to his current role, LeRoy made significant contributions in healthcare through his positions in Provider Relations with Eskenazi Medical Group and in Community Engagement at Eskenazi Health. In these roles, he leveraged his communication expertise and leadership to enhance community partnerships and improve access to healthcare services.
LeRoy’s commitment to servant leadership was shaped early through his participation in the LEAD 2007 program and further refined as a member of the Stanley K. Lacy Executive Leadership Series (Class XXXIX). These experiences deepened his understanding of cultural sensitivity, humility, and the importance of empowering underrepresented communities.
Beyond his professional endeavors, LeRoy serves on the board of the African American Legacy Fund of Indianapolis, championing initiatives that uplift minority leaders and amplify diverse voices. His passion for fostering equitable opportunities is reflected in his active community involvement and advocacy.
LeRoy balances his leadership roles with his personal passions. He coaches football at Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School, prioritizes health and wellness through daily fitness, and is a devoted father to his son, LeRoy Lewis IV. Together with his wife, Maggie Lewis, LeRoy continues to serve and inspire through numerous volunteer leadership roles across the city.
~Statement from Soror Shondria Seaton
“LeRoy Lewis III is a dedicated leader and advocate for Indianapolis... A devoted husband to Maggie Lewis and father to LeRoy Lewis IV, he embodies servant leadership in all aspects of life… LeRoy’s proven leadership, professional achievements, and unwavering dedication to Indianapolis communities make him a deserving nominee for the King’s Court Award.”
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Anthony "Tony" Mason
Anthony “Tony” Mason is a visionary leader and passionate advocate for social and economic empowerment. As President and CEO of the Indianapolis Urban League (IUL), Tony spearheads initiatives that assist African Americans, other minorities, and disadvantaged individuals in achieving greater opportunities and equity. Under his leadership, the IUL has expanded services, including becoming a Center for Working Families, enhancing health and wellness programs, and growing the Project Ready College and Career Readiness Program. He also established an agency endowment fund and secured a National Urban League Entrepreneurship Center designation. In 2019, Tony successfully hosted the National Urban League Annual Conference, featuring President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris.
Tony led the creation of the Indianapolis African American Quality of Life Initiative (IAAQLI), funded by Lilly Endowment Inc., addressing disparities in health, education, housing, and economic development for African Americans in Indianapolis.
Before joining IUL, Tony served as Senior Vice President of the 2012 Indianapolis Super Bowl Host Committee, leading the Near Eastside Legacy Project and major community outreach initiatives. As Executive Director of the Circle City Classic for eight years, he grew the event into one of the nation’s largest Black college football gatherings, generating a $15 million economic impact and awarding nearly $100,000 in scholarships annually.
Tony’s career includes leadership roles with the NCAA, AAU, Indiana Black Expo, and universities including Miami of Ohio and Wichita State. He is a recipient of the Indianapolis Business Journal Forty Under 40 Award, the Center for Leadership Development’s Achievement in Business Award, and the NAACP Outstanding Achievement Award. Tony holds degrees from Miami University and serves on numerous boards and committees advancing racial equity and economic development.
~Statement from Soror Sandra Bryant Willis
“I am nominating Tony Mason for his outstanding leadership and his unwavering commitment to improving the lives of Indianapolis residents. Tony has a proven history of exceptional leadership, consistently motivating and inspiring others to support his efforts in delivering necessary benefits to the community….”
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Tony led the creation of the Indianapolis African American Quality of Life Initiative (IAAQLI), funded by Lilly Endowment Inc., addressing disparities in health, education, housing, and economic development for African Americans in Indianapolis.
Before joining IUL, Tony served as Senior Vice President of the 2012 Indianapolis Super Bowl Host Committee, leading the Near Eastside Legacy Project and major community outreach initiatives. As Executive Director of the Circle City Classic for eight years, he grew the event into one of the nation’s largest Black college football gatherings, generating a $15 million economic impact and awarding nearly $100,000 in scholarships annually.
Tony’s career includes leadership roles with the NCAA, AAU, Indiana Black Expo, and universities including Miami of Ohio and Wichita State. He is a recipient of the Indianapolis Business Journal Forty Under 40 Award, the Center for Leadership Development’s Achievement in Business Award, and the NAACP Outstanding Achievement Award. Tony holds degrees from Miami University and serves on numerous boards and committees advancing racial equity and economic development.
~Statement from Soror Sandra Bryant Willis
“I am nominating Tony Mason for his outstanding leadership and his unwavering commitment to improving the lives of Indianapolis residents. Tony has a proven history of exceptional leadership, consistently motivating and inspiring others to support his efforts in delivering necessary benefits to the community….”
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Jarrett T. Moore
Jarrett T. Moore is an accomplished public servant, advocate, and leader dedicated to advancing social and economic justice. A native of Atlantic County, New Jersey, he currently resides in Indianapolis with his wife of thirteen years, Ashley, and their two daughters, Gabrielle and Addison. Jarrett holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Penn State University and a Master of Public Administration from Indiana Wesleyan University.
With a passion for leadership, public service, and ministry, Jarrett serves as Associate Pastor at Kingdom Apostolic Ministries, where he inspires and galvanizes his generation through the Gospel of Jesus Christ. His commitment to education, character, and integrity has been the foundation of his work as a community organizer, minister, and policy analyst.
Professionally, Jarrett is the Manager of Government & Regulatory Affairs for Comcast Corporation. In this role, he engages policymakers and community stakeholders to shape public policy, advocate for equitable broadband access, and foster partnerships that bridge the digital divide. Prior to Comcast, he served as a policy analyst and legislative aide for the Indianapolis City Council and the United States Congress, focusing on economic development, education, housing, and infrastructure initiatives for underserved communities.
Jarrett is an active civic leader and board member of several organizations, where he works to create policies and programs that promote educational equity and economic mobility. His dedication to social progress and his expertise in government affairs have positioned him as a trusted voice in the fight for systemic change and community empowerment.
~Statement from Soror Peggy Averitte
“Jarrett Moore is an innovative and inspirational change agent, driving impact through policy, ministry, and community engagement. As a corporate leader, pastor, and former policy analyst, he champions economic empowerment, education, and social justice. His leadership blends faith and advocacy, shaping a future of integrity, equity, and opportunity."
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With a passion for leadership, public service, and ministry, Jarrett serves as Associate Pastor at Kingdom Apostolic Ministries, where he inspires and galvanizes his generation through the Gospel of Jesus Christ. His commitment to education, character, and integrity has been the foundation of his work as a community organizer, minister, and policy analyst.
Professionally, Jarrett is the Manager of Government & Regulatory Affairs for Comcast Corporation. In this role, he engages policymakers and community stakeholders to shape public policy, advocate for equitable broadband access, and foster partnerships that bridge the digital divide. Prior to Comcast, he served as a policy analyst and legislative aide for the Indianapolis City Council and the United States Congress, focusing on economic development, education, housing, and infrastructure initiatives for underserved communities.
Jarrett is an active civic leader and board member of several organizations, where he works to create policies and programs that promote educational equity and economic mobility. His dedication to social progress and his expertise in government affairs have positioned him as a trusted voice in the fight for systemic change and community empowerment.
~Statement from Soror Peggy Averitte
“Jarrett Moore is an innovative and inspirational change agent, driving impact through policy, ministry, and community engagement. As a corporate leader, pastor, and former policy analyst, he champions economic empowerment, education, and social justice. His leadership blends faith and advocacy, shaping a future of integrity, equity, and opportunity."
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Lamont Perry
Lamont Perry is a seasoned professional in the insurance industry and the proud owner of a State Farm Insurance agency, located at 62nd and Allisonville Road in Indianapolis, IN. With years of experience and a passion for helping others, Lamont has built a successful business focused on providing personalized service and financial security for individuals, families, and businesses throughout the community.
A lifelong Hoosier, Lamont was raised in Indianapolis and graduated from Pike High School. He later earned his degree from Indiana State University in Terre Haute, where he remains actively involved as a member of the university’s alumni board. His dedication to education and mentorship continues to shape his professional and personal life.
For over 30 years, Lamont has shared his life with his wife, and together they are proud parents of three wonderful children. His commitment to family values extends into his community work. As a deacon at his church, Lamont provides leadership and spiritual guidance, and his volunteer efforts include coaching and mentoring young people. As an active member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, he contributes to The Kappa League youth mentoring program, helping to develop the next generation of leaders.
Lamont is passionate about promoting economic empowerment and creating opportunities for others. Through his agency, he works to create, retain, and expand job opportunities for young insurance agents, fostering pathways for economic growth. He has also been instrumental in raising scholarship funds for students of color through his partnerships with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, directly impacting future generations.
~Statement from Soror Misty Ackles Dumas
“Lamont has helped create, retain, develop, and expand jobs, which in turn generate generational wealth. Lamont has a variety of exceptional leadership skills,…in his church, fraternity, and community. Lamont has been highly effective and has achieved positive change as he works to uplift his fellow men in the Indianapolis community.”
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Gregory W. Porter
Gregory W. Porter serves his 15th term representing Indiana House District 96 in the 124th Indiana General Assembly. As ranking minority member of the House Ways and Means Committee, he is also a voting member of the State Budget, Public Health, and Insurance Committees. Mr. Porter is the past president of the National Black Caucus of State Legislators (NBCSL), representing nearly 700 Black legislators nationwide.
Mr. Porter co-authored legislation renaming a section of I-65 as the “Tuskegee Airmen Highway.” He has led major legislative efforts on K-12 education standards, cultural competency, and anti-bullying initiatives. He is a past chairman of both the Indiana Black Legislative Caucus and the Indiana House Education Committee.
In addition to his legislative work, Mr. Porter is the Senior Vice President of External Affairs for the Health and Hospital Corporation of Marion County. He advises on community engagement strategies and strengthens partnerships with key stakeholders.
Mr. Porter’s leadership extends to national boards and task forces, including the National Taskforce for No Child Left Behind, NAACP, and Earlham College’s African American Advisory Board. He chairs the Kennedy/King Memorial Initiative and serves on boards such as the Indiana Sports Corporation and Mapleton Fall Creek Community Development Corporation.
His numerous awards include the 2023 Legislative Champion Award from the Indiana Association of Area Agencies on Aging, the 2021 NCAA Legacy Award, and NBCSL’s Commitment to Care & Access Award (2024).
An Indianapolis native, Mr. Porter is an Earlham College alumnus, with additional honors from Harvard’s Kennedy School and Martin University. He and his wife, Yvette, have three children and are active members of Phillips Temple C.M.E. Church.
~Statement from Soror Collette LaRue Duvalle
I nominate Gregory Porter because he fights for the rights of his community. He reaches out, has a listening ear and spends time talking to the residents of Indianapolis. He is always available to help a friend. He is a true drum major for Justice and a servant leader to his heart."
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Mr. Porter co-authored legislation renaming a section of I-65 as the “Tuskegee Airmen Highway.” He has led major legislative efforts on K-12 education standards, cultural competency, and anti-bullying initiatives. He is a past chairman of both the Indiana Black Legislative Caucus and the Indiana House Education Committee.
In addition to his legislative work, Mr. Porter is the Senior Vice President of External Affairs for the Health and Hospital Corporation of Marion County. He advises on community engagement strategies and strengthens partnerships with key stakeholders.
Mr. Porter’s leadership extends to national boards and task forces, including the National Taskforce for No Child Left Behind, NAACP, and Earlham College’s African American Advisory Board. He chairs the Kennedy/King Memorial Initiative and serves on boards such as the Indiana Sports Corporation and Mapleton Fall Creek Community Development Corporation.
His numerous awards include the 2023 Legislative Champion Award from the Indiana Association of Area Agencies on Aging, the 2021 NCAA Legacy Award, and NBCSL’s Commitment to Care & Access Award (2024).
An Indianapolis native, Mr. Porter is an Earlham College alumnus, with additional honors from Harvard’s Kennedy School and Martin University. He and his wife, Yvette, have three children and are active members of Phillips Temple C.M.E. Church.
~Statement from Soror Collette LaRue Duvalle
I nominate Gregory Porter because he fights for the rights of his community. He reaches out, has a listening ear and spends time talking to the residents of Indianapolis. He is always available to help a friend. He is a true drum major for Justice and a servant leader to his heart."
(CLICK THE LINK TO DONATE)
Matthew Steward
Matthew Steward is the founder and president of Steward Speakers, Inc., an organization that has enriched the Indianapolis community for over 36 years by presenting distinguished speakers from across the nation. His passion for curating impactful conversations began during his time at Indiana University Bloomington, where he served on the Union Board, helping to host renowned guest lecturers such as Harry Belafonte, the late Dick Gregory, and Bill Cosby. Inspired by these experiences and supported by his family and local leaders like the late William Mays of Mays Chemical Company and Sam Jones of the Indianapolis Urban League, Matthew introduced Steward Speakers to Indianapolis in 1986.
Under Matthew’s visionary leadership, Steward Speakers has brought more than 150 influential figures to Central Indiana, providing opportunities for dialogue, education, and inspiration. Notable speakers have included Secretary of State General Colin Powell, award-winning actress Viola Davis, gospel artist Kirk Franklin, entertainer Steve Harvey, presidential advisor Valerie Jarrett, NBA legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson, and activist Dick Gregory.
Beyond Steward Speakers, Matthew dedicated 38 years to public service with the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, retiring at the rank of Sergeant. Today, he continues his commitment to community engagement as the Strategic Initiatives Liaison for IMPD’s Community Engagement and Outreach Bureau.
Matthew holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Indiana University’s College of Arts and Sciences. He is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and has served as chairman of the deacon board at New Liberty Missionary Baptist Church. Matthew has been married to his wife, Laverne, for 31 years and is the proud father of two adult daughters.
~Statement from Soror Anita Hawkins Nowlen
“He has consistently demonstrated leadership qualities throughout his life. A true visionary, he had written on a notepad about bringing a Speakers Series to Indianapolis years before it came to fruition. Thirty-eight years later, his vision has brought some of the most prolific, controversial and dynamic celebrities to the Indianapolis area.”
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Under Matthew’s visionary leadership, Steward Speakers has brought more than 150 influential figures to Central Indiana, providing opportunities for dialogue, education, and inspiration. Notable speakers have included Secretary of State General Colin Powell, award-winning actress Viola Davis, gospel artist Kirk Franklin, entertainer Steve Harvey, presidential advisor Valerie Jarrett, NBA legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson, and activist Dick Gregory.
Beyond Steward Speakers, Matthew dedicated 38 years to public service with the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, retiring at the rank of Sergeant. Today, he continues his commitment to community engagement as the Strategic Initiatives Liaison for IMPD’s Community Engagement and Outreach Bureau.
Matthew holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Indiana University’s College of Arts and Sciences. He is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and has served as chairman of the deacon board at New Liberty Missionary Baptist Church. Matthew has been married to his wife, Laverne, for 31 years and is the proud father of two adult daughters.
~Statement from Soror Anita Hawkins Nowlen
“He has consistently demonstrated leadership qualities throughout his life. A true visionary, he had written on a notepad about bringing a Speakers Series to Indianapolis years before it came to fruition. Thirty-eight years later, his vision has brought some of the most prolific, controversial and dynamic celebrities to the Indianapolis area.”
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Dr. Kenneth Sullivan Jr.
Dr. Kenneth Sullivan, Jr. is a pastor, writer, entrepreneur, conference speaker, and consultant with over 30 years of ministry experience. He has served as Senior Pastor of New Direction Church in Indianapolis for nearly two decades, leading a rapidly growing congregation and overseeing the production of hybrid worship services. His doctoral research focuses on essentials for the post-pandemic church.
Dr. Sullivan is the co-founder and current president of the Indianapolis Urban Pastors Coalition (IUPC), a network of pastors collaborating to drive meaningful change through local congregations. He and his wife, Lady Roxie, are the proud parents of three children: Gabrielle, Kennedy, and David Jeremiah.
A native of Indianapolis, Dr. Sullivan earned a Bachelor of Science in Pastoral Ministry and Theology from Crossroads Bible College, a Master of Arts in Christian Leadership from Indiana Wesleyan University, and a Doctor of Ministry from Portland Seminary at George Fox University in 2023. He is also a published author, having written books on relationships and Christian discipleship, with a fourth book on 21st-century ministry development set for release in Fall 2023.
As a community leader, Dr. Sullivan has served on several nonprofit boards and advisory councils. He founded a nonprofit in 2014 that provides programming for youth and young adults in under-resourced communities and established a community development corporation focused on housing and economic empowerment in northeast Indianapolis.
Internationally, he founded New Direction’s Better Life Initiative in 2018, which has built ten churches in Eldoret, Kenya. Dr. Sullivan is passionate about helping churches and leaders fulfill their unique, God-given vision.
~Statement from Soror LaToya Black
“Pastor Sullivan embodies the very spirit of social justice and has a heart for people, as evidenced through his tireless servant leadership… He often lends his expertise, time, and activism toward the betterment of the community through numerous advisory councils and boards. He is the 'people's pastor' and will speak truth to power!”
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Dr. Sullivan is the co-founder and current president of the Indianapolis Urban Pastors Coalition (IUPC), a network of pastors collaborating to drive meaningful change through local congregations. He and his wife, Lady Roxie, are the proud parents of three children: Gabrielle, Kennedy, and David Jeremiah.
A native of Indianapolis, Dr. Sullivan earned a Bachelor of Science in Pastoral Ministry and Theology from Crossroads Bible College, a Master of Arts in Christian Leadership from Indiana Wesleyan University, and a Doctor of Ministry from Portland Seminary at George Fox University in 2023. He is also a published author, having written books on relationships and Christian discipleship, with a fourth book on 21st-century ministry development set for release in Fall 2023.
As a community leader, Dr. Sullivan has served on several nonprofit boards and advisory councils. He founded a nonprofit in 2014 that provides programming for youth and young adults in under-resourced communities and established a community development corporation focused on housing and economic empowerment in northeast Indianapolis.
Internationally, he founded New Direction’s Better Life Initiative in 2018, which has built ten churches in Eldoret, Kenya. Dr. Sullivan is passionate about helping churches and leaders fulfill their unique, God-given vision.
~Statement from Soror LaToya Black
“Pastor Sullivan embodies the very spirit of social justice and has a heart for people, as evidenced through his tireless servant leadership… He often lends his expertise, time, and activism toward the betterment of the community through numerous advisory councils and boards. He is the 'people's pastor' and will speak truth to power!”
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