Board of Directors
Cynthia Newman is an Inspirational Speaker, Author and Entrepreneur whose mission is to empower, inspire and encourage others to live their best lives. A graduate of Purdue University and Licensed Minister, she founded the Raising Queens Initiative as an outgrowth of her award winning book Raising Queens, where she empowers women and girls, through workshops and her annual Raising Queens Summit. Cynthia has received numerous awards including a proclamation from the Indiana General Assembly for her work with women and girls in our community. Cynthia has built a career in the financial industry but most enjoys being wife to Eric and mother to one son, Jordan.
Dr. Preston T. Adams, III, CEC, BDC is the Founding and Senior Pastor
Amazing Grace Christian Church and the Founder, Urban Initiative, Inc. where he mentors and supports black males. Preston's accolades are extensive and as a preacher, teacher, author and ardent community servant, he has a passion and long history for advocating for and empowering youth.
Beverly Benjamin wife, mother, grandmother and creative entrepreneur. Beverly served as "first lady" of Light of the World Christian Church for 43 years where she served as a mentor and role model to countless women in the church and the community. During he tenure she received numerous awards to include the prestigious Sagamore of the Wabash award from the governor of Indiana (2) and Indiana Black Expo Trailblazers award among others. As an entrepreneur her jewelry creations can be found at her online boutique, Bijoux by Beverly. She is married to the love of her life, Bishop T. Garrott Benjamin, Jr. and is the proud mother of three educated sons and the grandmother of two.
Elizabeth Clark-Ray is a Manager for Pepsico worlwide where she specializes in Supply Chain Capability. Elizabeth is a prolific singer, worship leader and is active in ministry. Of all of her roles, she most enjoys being the wife and mother of two teenage sons.
Genyne Edwards-Booth, JD is an experienced consultant and attorney who has worked in community development and social enterprise for more than 20 years. She specializes in building partnerships and coalitions, managing and staffing projects, and conducting research.
She received her undergraduate degree in Organizational Leadership and Supervision from Purdue University and her Juris Doctor from Marquette University. She is also certified in professional coaching and commercial real estate. Genyne is the recipient of many awards and is a 2015 Milwaukee Business Journal Woman of Influence in the category of Innovation.
Donna Schiele is an award winning radio personality for Radio One Indianapolis (WTLC FM and AM). She is also a seasoned educator, and is currently a literacy coach and interventionist.She was named Teacher of the Year twice. Donna is also a dancer, actor and is passionate about empowering young girls.
Kim Sorrell is the Executive Pastor of Transforming Life Church (TLC) and President of Women with a Purpose (TLC Women's Ministry). Kim is military veteran with over 15 years experience in the non-profit sector and more than 20 years in working in the public sector. She is holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration and is currently pursuing a Master's degree in Public Adminstration.