2025 Black Power Players

Ty Henderson-Rivers is the founder, president and CEO of Connective Strategies. She has 30+ years of experience in politics and advocacy, helping firms, organizations, and candidates build their brands and succeed. Ty is a registered lobbyist and certified MWBE business owner who has played leading roles in many winning political campaigns, including for Governor Hochul, Congressman Meeks, and others. Her lobbying clients include Altria, FedEx, and REBNY.

Who is your biggest inspiration and why?
My biggest inspiration comes from my community – both those who invested in me early on and my children who now look up to me for guidance.

Is there a Black-owned business or organization that you would like to spotlight?
For a Black-owned business spotlight, I have to recognize Bill Lynch and Associates. Mr. Lynch broke barriers as one of the first Black lobbyists running an internationally recognized firm. He mentored countless professionals like myself, and his endorsement opened doors for many of us in politics.

What is the proudest moment in your career so far?
My proudest career moment emerged through our Faith-Based Division, where purpose met passion. We United over 1,000 faith leaders to address healthcare disparities and the need for affordable housing through transformative action.

Juanita Scarlett is a partner at Bolton St. Johns, advising clients in health care, technology, economic development and education. Previously, Ms. Scarlett served in the administrations of Governor and Attorney General Andrew Cuomo, Governor and Attorney General Eliot Spitzer and Governor Mario M. Cuomo. Scarlett has held senior positions at the American Stock Exchange and MTV Networks. Scarlett is on the board of Stars of New York Dance, Citizens Union, Camp Fort Greene and the New Majority.  

Is there a Black-owned business or organization that you would like to spotlight?
Camp Fort Greene is a wonderful organization that teaches technology and research skills to young people and helps them grow, discover and want to contribute to the world around them. 

What is the proudest moment in your career so far?
I’ve been blessed to work with incredible and dedicated professionals, especially when in government service, who show up every day wanting to improve people’s lives. Today, I’m so proud of my work with nonprofit organizations like the Brooklyn Kindergarten Society, which is dedicated to early intervention for students with Autism and learning differences – most of whom are students of color.

Dr. Sandra Scott oversees Brookdale, Interfaith, and Kingsbrook Jewish Medical Centers. Previously, she served as the first woman and African American executive director of Brookdale Hospital. A respected physician and educator, Dr. Scott graduated from Louisiana State University and Baylor College of Medicine, completing her residency at Boston Medical Center. Her leadership has expanded access, improved outcomes, and strengthened operational efficiency for East and Central Brooklyn communities.

Who is your biggest inspiration and why?
One of my biggest inspirations is Thich Nhat Hanh, whose teachings on mindfulness and living in the present resonate with me. Through his philosophy of peace and compassion, he shows how mindfulness transforms our relationships and fosters gratitude. His devotion to interconnectedness inspires me to act and lead with kindness and humility. His life serves as a reminder to me that inner peace has the potential to spark meaningful change in the world around us.

Is there a Black-owned business or organization that you would like to spotlight?
I’d like to spotlight My Time Inc., a nonprofit empowering parents of children with disabilities through education, support, and advocacy. Their work fosters stronger families and inclusive communities. 

What is the proudest moment in your career so far?
I am most proud of surpassing the dreams of my six-year-old self. I became a physician, dedicated my career to underserved communities, and now lead an organization whose mission aligns with my core values. This journey represents a lifelong commitment to service grounded in a dream I’ve carried since childhood. It is deeply fulfilling to see those early aspirations evolve into a career that creates change and reflects who I am.

Rev. Al Sharpton is one of the preeminent civil rights leaders of our time. He is the founder and president of the National Action Network (NAN), an organization born out of the tradition of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., promoting a modern civil rights agenda that includes the fight for one standard of justice, decency and equal opportunities for all people regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, citizenship, criminal record, economic status, gender, gender expression, or sexuality.Rev. Al Sharpton is one of the preeminent civil rights leaders of our time. He is the founder and president of the National Action Network (NAN), an organization born out of the tradition of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., promoting a modern civil rights agenda that includes the fight for one standard of justice, decency and equal opportunities for all people regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, citizenship, criminal record, economic status, gender, gender expression, or sexuality.

Priscilla Sims Brown is the president and CEO of Amalgamated Bank. A multi-national board director with 30 years of financial services experience, Ms. Brown has held executive positions at Commonwealth Bank of Australia, AXA Financial, Sun Life and Lincoln Financial Group. She is deeply passionate about positively impacting our society through equitable access to capital.

Who is your biggest inspiration and why?
My father and late mother, Demeke Tekle-Wold and Marta Gabre-Tsadick escaped the communist takeover of Ethiopia, they came to the U.S. as refugees, committed to serve both countries. Together, they established Project Mercy, an NGO that is now a model for eradicating poverty and empowering people worldwide. Their journey taught me the importance of leaning into change, rather than fearing it. They gave us the self- assurance to use our voices to help empower others struggling to be heard.

Is there a Black-owned business or organization that you would like to spotlight?
My family prioritizes sharing special moments in each other’s lives. We’ve made friends with wonderful vendors who we turn to in those moments. 7Blooms is a wonderful floral and design business in Philadelphia. Italian restaurant, Setapani, in Harlem. Jusla Eats is a fabulous caterer in the Bay Area. Lenox & Harvey in Martha’s Vineyard, Uncle Bobbie’s Bookstore in Philly and brands like Uncle Nearest, Wales Bonner, Denim Tears, Bole Road… have helped us create special moments we’ll remember for a lifetime.

What is the proudest moment in your career so far?
Getting the call to lead Amalgamated Bank, alongside an amazing Board and executive team. It’s been incredibly rewarding. I believe all the work I’ve done in my career has taught me to appreciate the power of good corporate citizenry and the immense role that financial institutions play in society.

Shontell Smith is an attorney and government affairs professional with over a decade of legislative and political expertise. She is a partner at Tusk Strategies and heads its New York Practice. Before joining Tusk, Shontell served as chief of staff and chief counsel to the New York State Senate Majority Conference.  She received her undergraduate degree in political science from Siena College and her J.D. from the University of Maryland School of Law. 

Who is your biggest inspiration and why?
My biggest inspiration is Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins.  As the first female and African American conference leader, she made history for New York politics. As her former chief of staff, I witnessed firsthand how she navigated rocky political terrain while remaining true to her beliefs and values. Growing up, I did not know many women in leadership positions, so working closely with her showed me the sky’s the limit.

Is there a Black-owned business or organization that you would like to spotlight?
The Alice Moore Black Arts and Cultural Center in Albany, New York. The cultural center serves as a hub for the community, featuring art and cultural programming while also providing housing for those in need. Places like this are scarce and much needed in the Upstate region.

Dr. Carla Smith is the CEO of The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center in New York City. With 25+ years of experience in social services, she oversees The Center’s financial, programmatic, and operational functions. Dr. Smith holds a Doctorate of Education in Executive Leadership. Dr. Smith has spoken extensively at public forums about the societal impacts of discrimination and violence. She lives in New York with her wife Jackie, five children, and grandchild.

Who is your biggest inspiration and why?
My biggest inspiration is my grandmother, Dorotheen Smith, as she demonstrated unconditional love and told me that anything was possible. She literally kept an open seat at their kitchen table, and a pot of food on the stove, allowing anyone who needed nourishment to take a seat. Her dedication to servant leadership is something that continues to inspire me and fuels my own commitment to ensuring everyone has a seat at the table.

Is there a Black-owned business or organization that you would like to spotlight?
The Center hosts an annual market for Black small businesses. This year, it’s going to be on February 19 (gaycenter.org/bhmmarket). My team and I compiled a gift guide with Black LGBTQ+ businesses that we love. Here is the link for reference: https://gaycenter.org/holiday-shopping-guide/.

What is the proudest moment in your career so far?
My proudest moment is being entrusted with the role of CEO at The Center, a vital part of the LGBTQ+ community for over 40 years. I deeply value the opportunity to bring my unique perspective and lived experience as the organization’s first Black CEO. Change is not only possible, but is happening right now. I’m inspired to work with a brilliant, dynamic team to create an environment where everyone feels safe, seen, heard, and valued.

Wayne Spence is the only president of the Public Employees Federation in history to be elected for four terms. He is a member of the Cornell ILR Advisory Board, is a board member for the NYS AFL-CIO and holds several positions within AFT, including national vice president, chair of the Civil and Human Rights Committee, member of the Human Rights & Community Relations Committee and member of the Organizing Committee. 

Who is your biggest inspiration and why?
John Lewis is my biggest inspiration. He is my fraternity brother (Phi Beta Sigma) and his legacy as a civil rights icon and his famous call to “Get in good trouble, necessary trouble” embodies courage, perseverance and a relentless fight for justice. I admire his moral courage and his ability to inspire change.

Is there a Black-owned business or organization that you would like to spotlight?
Backyard Barbecue located on the Nautical Mile in Freeport, NY. 

What is the proudest moment in your career so far?
Being elected as the first PEF president to serve four terms. This represents the trust and confidence members have placed in me and reflects the collective progress we have achieved since I took office in 2015 as the first African American president of PEF. This achievement is a testament to the strength of our shared vision and our unwavering commitment to moving forward together.

NYS Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins is a trailblazer in government and a champion for progress. In 2012, she became the first woman and African American woman to lead a NYS legislative conference. In 2019 she again shattered the glass ceiling when her peers elected her temporary president and majority leader. Stewart-Cousins represents Greenburgh, Mount Pleasant, and Yonkers, and leads on transformative legislation in voting rights, women’s rights, immigration, justice reform, climate, and affordable housing.

Who is your biggest inspiration and why?
My mother was a very big inspiration. She was immensely talented, but the times she lived in prevented her from achieving her goals. However, she managed our limited resources exceptionally well and instilled lasting values. I also admire Mary McLeod Bethune, born to former slaves, who established a school and a college for African American girls. She was a great educator, politically savvy, and she never lost sight of the goal of uplifting her people.

Is there a Black-owned business or organization that you would like to spotlight?
I would like to spotlight Jolo’s Vegan Kitchen. Their food is not only delicious but each dish is created with a focus on nourishing your body and keeping you healthy. Jolo’s is located at 49 Lawton St, New Rochelle, NY 10801, and their website is: jolosrestaurants.com

Candis Tall is 32BJ’s executive vice president and political director. For over a decade, she has fought for economic, racial and social justice as an organizer, activist, legislative and political campaigner. She leads 32BJ’s work to elect pro-worker candidates and pass legislation to lift standards for workers and promote social justice. Her wins include minimum wage increases, voting rights expansions, driver’s licenses for the undocumented, paid family leave, criminal justice reform, and the Healthy Terminals Act.

Who is your biggest inspiration and why?
I draw inspiration from the members of 32BJ: Airport workers who have been fighting for better working conditions and fair wages for over a decade, workers who knock on doors in their communities and beyond to GOTV for candidates that they may never meet but who they believe will make a change for the better, and members who show up to fight with non-union workers because they believe that when we all fight, we all win.

Is there a Black-owned business or organization that you would like to spotlight?
Breewoo! It’s a natural hair care brand that has really helped me on my natural hair journey. Going back to my roots is much easier now 😊

What is the proudest moment in your career so far?
I am so proud of the work that we have accomplished at 32BJ to raise wages and ensure good benefits for working people. From the Fight for $15 where we passed a $15 minimum wage in many states across our districts to winning the fight to raise wages for security and airport workers. I am also super proud of the work I helped lead to bring more accountability to the NYPD.