EDUCATOR:

One of the most sought-after educators on the topic of boys of color and the Arts, Brian has been featured on ABC News, as well as dozens of periodicals for his work and commitment to changing the narrative of black and brown boys. In 2019, he was named one of Black Enterprise Magazines 2019 BeModern Men of Distinction. Brian has received numerous awards and recognition for his passion in education and empowering communities where boys of color have been overlooked and underserved.

Brian’s work supports educators through impactful trainings, seminars and workshops that focus on equity in urban schools and employing transformational practices for children of color. He has traveled throughout the country lecturing at professional education conferences and facilitating workshops discussing innovative teaching practices in the classroom. He has worked with many educational organizations including the Coalition of Schools Educating Boys of Color, Black Male Educators for Social Justice, The LEEP to College Foundation, Atlas Theater, and The L.I.G.H.T. Teen Summit to name a few. 

Brian’s experiences as an elementary school educator and school administrator gives him a first-hand perspective on the role of educators and school systems in improving the quality of education for students of color. Brian currently serves as the Director of Outplacement and Graduate Support at Bishop Walker School for Boys in Washington, DC.

MINISTER:

First century theologian, St. Francis of Assisi wrote, “Preachthe gospel at all times, when necessary use words.” This quote articulates Brian’s mission andministry. As a licensed minister, Brian believes in leading by example andallowing your light to shine through your works and good deeds to others. Brian attributes his ministerial beginnings to one “Sunday Morning service,” when askedby his Pastor, the late Rev. Delano Paige of Rodman Street Missionary Baptist Church (Pittsburgh, PA) to pray for the congregation at seven years old. It wasat that moment Brian knew he was called to ministry.

In 2005, Brian began his publicministry by preaching his formal initial sermon at Gravel Hill Baptist Churchunder the leadership of Rev. Dr. Ray McKenzie; a sermon entitled, “The Power of a Public Announcement,” from Luke 4:18. Brian’s unique and powerful style of preaching has sent him to churches throughout the country spreading the Good News.

Brian’s work as a Youth and Associate Minister, provide him the tools needed to help congregations develop an ever-deepening relationshipwith God, as well as understanding their own mission in life. He has helped tocreate several outreach ministries serving children, youth, fathers, single-mothers and community schools. Brian is currently serving at Union Temple Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Anika Wilson-Brown.

VISIONARY:

It is said that without vision, people will perish. This concept is a foundational truth for Brian in the work he does to create sustainable programs and organizations for children of color. He is the Founder and Artistic Director of Sons of Freedom Dance Institute, an organization committed to nurturing character, increasing social awareness, and teaching spiritual practices for boys through classical and contemporary forms of dance and movement. He has also developed numerous programs within schools that promote creativity, literacy and self-confidence such as: Real Men Read, B.C.A.P.A. (boys with confidence, awareness and pride), Educator’s Circle and Freedom Fridays. He is the CEO of BeFree Publishing, empowering children authors to write their own stories, both fiction andnon-fiction. Brian’s innovative approach to educating children of color has created a legacy of empowerment, achievement and community responsibility.