AI Music & Creators Conference at Bennett College

April 17–19, 2026 | Greensboro, North Carolina

Bennett College will host the AI Music & Creators Conference, a 2½-day experience bringing together artists, technologists, educators, and industry leaders to explore how artificial intelligence and technology are reshaping creative work.

Held on campus, the conference will feature live demonstrations, panel discussions, performances, and cross-disciplinary conversations at the intersection of music, fashion, media, and innovation. Suno, a generative AI music creation platform and digital audio workstation, joins as a conference partner.

Featured Participants Include:

  • Kevan Hall (former designer for Halston) and TJ Walker (Cross Colours co-founder)

    • Two of the co-founders of the Black Design Collective, lead conversations on fashion, culture, sustainability, and technology.
  • Jeannie Jones-Ledford, President & CEO of J3 Consulting, LLC and Conference Luncheon Sponsor

    • Takes us inside her remarkable journey of building a company rooted in innovation, integrity, and execution — sharing the vision, challenges, and defining moments.
  • Sheryl Underwood (virtual)

    • Emmy Award-winning television host, stand-up comedian, producer, and philanthropist whose career spans more than three decades at the intersection of entertainment, education, and community service.
  • Kevin Frazier (virtual)

    • TV Host of Entertainment Tonight and founder of urban entertainment website HipHollywood.com.
  • Loni Love (virtual)

    • Television Host, Actress, Author, and former Electrical Engineer.
  • Vanessa Estelle Williams (virtual)

    • Award-winning Actress, Singer, Writer, Director, Producer; best known for her role in the series "Soul Food."
  • Alimi Ballard (virtual)

    • Award-winning Actor and Producer; best known for his work in NBC's "Law & Order," "Queen of the South," "Numbers," "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation," and "Queen Sugar."
  • Lafouji Alexander

    • Suno VIP Beta Tester, on emerging AI music tools.
  • Dr. William “Worm” Blount

    • Producer and co-founder of Blackstreet, bridging music industry expertise and new technologies.
  • Omari Clarke

    • Multi-Platinum-certified Record Producer and Engineer and Suno VIP Member.
  • Griot & Grits

    • Creatives from Red Hat and Rickey Thomas, Jr., Thoan Freckleton, and Albert Myles explore AI in video production and digital storytelling.
  • Rickey Thomas, Jr.

    • Storyteller, creative producer, film maker, founder of "Just Another RGTJ Productions" and former producer for Inspiration Networks, shares insight into production and storytelling.
  • Scott A. McGregor

    • Latimer AI executive and a responsible AI advocate, on AI from the ground up, and the importance of culturally relevant large language model trained with diverse histories & inclusive voice.
  • Malcolm Jackson and Montecia Roulhac, MBA (virtual)

    • Malcolm Jackson, Principal Specialist, Global Talent Acquisition Operations - Micron Technology and Montecia Roulhac, MBA, AI & Emerging Technology Talent Leader — Index Exchange (a Bennett College ANA Partner Organization) on how not to be replaced by AI.
  • Yemi Adegbonmire (virtual)

    • Entertainment and technology attorney and Vice President of Legal and Associate General Counsel at Cineverse, on understanding the legal side of art and creativity.
  • Linda Jones

    • Celebrity Publicist, moderates a conversation with special celebrities on creativity and the impact of AI.
  • Kameron Buckner and Chenae Erkerd

    • Kameron Buckner, Lawyer / Founder, Social Docket @kameronmonet and Chenae Erkerd, Tech Recruiter, Palo Alto Networks / @RecruiterCousin, present an interactive AI panel designed for future innovators & Creators.

Conference Highlights:

  • 2.5 Days of Live AI tool demonstrations and Interactive Sessions
  • For Beginners and Pros - All Are Welcome!
  • VIP Reception and Book Signing - BLACK IN FASHION
  • Conference Luncheon sponsored by J3 Consulting LLC (Jeannie Jones-Ledford, founder)
  • Music Showcase featuring emerging artists
  • Virtual Celebrity Panel
  • AI, Tech, and Faith Experience
  • Engage with Tech and Entertainment Pros
  • Ask all your burning questions about AI, Creative Ownership, Digital Music

Giveaways and So Much More!

Join us in celebrating our Centennial!

#BennettToTheFuture


Registration

General Admission is FREE until April 10, 2026! Registration will cost $25 after.

Join us for a 2 1/2 -day exploration of music, creativity, and technology. Registration is free, but space is limited. Includes the conference luncheon.

Students who register will receive FREE General Admission.

VIP Experience $75 until April 10, 2026! The VIP Experience will cost $95 after.

Upgrade your experience with VIP access, including a private reception, conference luncheon priority seating, and enhanced networking opportunities with speakers and industry professionals.

Music Showcase Submission- $45 per track

“Only 20 slots. First come, first selected.”

Submit your original or AI-assisted track for live review by a panel of industry judges. Participants will receive feedback, recognition, and potential promotional opportunities. $45 per track, a maximum of 2 tracks, 3 mins or less per track.

Showcase participants receive priority seating.

Friday, April 17, 2026

AI Music & Creators Conference Check-In

Time: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Location: Global Learning Center- Rotunda

Stop by the GLC Rotunda to check in for the AI Music & Creators Conference 2026, pickup your name badge, and receive your tickets for events.

Welcome and Opening Remarks

Time: 10:00 am - 10:15 am
Location: Global Learning Center- Multipurpose Room

Interim President: Dr. Teresa Hardee, CPA, LSSBB

Convener: Phanalphie Rhue, songwriter, creator, and Chief Global Communications & Experience Officer for Bennett College

Join us for the start of the innovative AI Music & Creators Conference as Interim President Dr. Teresa Hardee, CPA, LSSBB and Phanalphie Rhue frame the conference’s focus on live demonstrations, panel discussions, and engagement at the intersection of music, media, and innovation.

Open to the public, programming will move from the foundational of AI to insights to real-world applications, in music and creative production to examining fashion, culture, sustainability, and technology. Sessions will explore how AI is reshaping music production, ownership, and creative control, along with conversations led by entertainment executives and attorneys on the legal and business implications of AI in the creative industries.

The conference includes a very special academic programming announcement, so don't miss this!

#BennettToTheFuture

 

What is AI? Understanding AI from the Ground Up

Time: 10:15 am - 11:00 am
Location: Global Learning Center- Multipurpose Room

Presenter:  Scott A. McGregor, Latimer AI

Moderator: Gwendolyn M. Bookman, J.D., Associate Professor, Political Science

Latimer AI is a large language model trained with diverse histories & inclusive voices.

This session is an engaging, practical session designed for students, alumnae, academics, professionals, and innovators who want to understand AI technology and its practical applications. Through real-world examples and live demonstrations, you will learn how AI can enhance productivity, creativity, and decision-making across industries and experiences. This session empowers participants at every level to confidently use AI as a tool to elevate their work and everyday life.

Built Different: We're The Algorithm

Time: 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Location: Global Learning Center- Multipurpose Room

Presenters:  Kameron Buckner, Lawyer / Founder, Social Docket @kameronmonet and Chenae Erkerd, Tech Recruiter, Palo Alto Networks / @RecruiterCousin

Moderator: Imani Cook, Bennett College Freshwoman

Designed by Freshwoman Imani Cook '29, this dynamic panel features insight from industry professionals from Lenovo, Microsoft, and Cisco on how they integrate AI into their workflows while navigating entrepreneurship, pivots, and growth. The session is designed to help students and professionals see themselves as creators and founders, empowered to start where they are.

Real Talk on AI: It's Not Replacing You — But Someone Who Knows It Might

Time: 1:15 pm - 1:45 pm
Location: Global Learning Center- Multipurpose Room

Presenters:  Malcolm Jackson, Principal Specialist, Global Talent Acquisition Operations - Micron Technology and Montecia Roulhac, MBA, AI & Emerging Technology Talent Leader — Index Exchange

Speakers from Micron Technology and Index Exchange join us for a candid conversation unpacking the real-world impact of AI on careers and industries — exploring not the fear of being replaced by machines, but the practical urgency of building AI fluency before those who have it leave you behind.

Intro to AI Music and Suno

Time: 1:45 pm - 2:15 pm
Location: Global Learning Center- Multipurpose Room

Presenter:  Lafouji Alexander, Suno VIP Beta Tester and Music Educator and Omari Clarke, Multi-Platinum-certified Record Producer and Engineer and Suno VIP Member

Moderator: Tom Lipscomb, Associate Professor, Bennett College Journalism & Media Studies

Lafouji Alexander, VIP Beta Tester from leading AI music software Suno, and Omari Clarke, multi-platinum-certified record producer and engineer based in Los Angeles and Suno VIP, hosts an introduction to AI music— demystifying the tools, workflows, and creative possibilities that are reshaping how music is made, and showing you how to start using them today. This intro to the platform is part of their series of sessions during the conference.

Open Source, AI, and Culture: Building Technology That Gives Back

Time: 2:15 pm - 3:00 pm
Location: Global Learning Center- Multipurpose Room

Presenters: Griot & Grits and their Industry Volunteers

Griot & Grits joins us with representatives from Red Hat to walk us through one of the most culturally significant open source projects in development today — a platform using AI to archive, enrich, and share the lived experiences of African Americans. Join Rickey Thomas, Jr., Thoan Freckleton, and Albert Myles to discover how innovation, community, and heritage are coming together one story at a time.

Sherard Griffin, Board Chair

Sherard Griffin leads the Griot and Grits Board, providing the vision, mission and strategic direction. He has over 25 years of experience architecting and developing large-scale enterprise data and AI solutions. He is currently Head of Engineering for OpenShift AI at Red Hat, an enterprise open-source Gen AI and MLOps platform.

Sherard serves on the Strategic Advisory Board of North Carolina State University's Computer Science Department. He is a passionate advocate for broadening participation in technology, mentoring emerging technologists, and promoting inclusive workforce development across the AI and open-source communities. His work reflects a holistic vision of technology as both a tool for innovation and a platform for empowerment.

Ty McDuffie, Executive Director & Founder

Ty McDuffie is the founder of Griot and Grits, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving Black family narratives through AI-enhanced video interviews. An Air Force veteran, Ty brings a disciplined, strategic approach to the urgent work of cultural preservation.

Driven by the realization that many Black families are losing their history to time and illness, Ty established Griot and Grits to bridge the gap between tradition and technology. His organization empowers families to secure their legacies, ensuring that the stories of the past remain accessible to inspire the future.

Albert Myles, AI Strategy

Albert Myles supports Griot and Grit’s AI strategy. As a Business Value Leader at Red Hat, Albert Drives innovation at the intersection of Knowledge Management and AI.

Albert is a veteran technologist with 30 years of experience. He develops systems to capture, process, and distribute knowledge of all types. He translates complex business data into actionable knowledge, while supporting organizational success.

Rickey Thomas Jr., Creative Executive Producer

Rickey is an experienced media producer whose passion for film and television began early, running a studio camera at the age of 14 and directing live broadcasts by 16 through his church's television ministry. Those early opportunities nurtured his creative and technical skills across audio, directing, editing, and live production.

He went on to earn a B.A. in Mass Communications with a concentration in Film and Television from Shaw University, later joining the Inspiration Networks as an Associate Producer. Under the mentorship of seasoned industry professionals, he contributed to a wide range of programs including producing, directing and editing more than eighty episodes of "A Muslim Journey to Hope".

Rickey founded the creative banner Under the Sun Studios and has produced the feature film "Young King", the documentary "Open Legs with a Closed Mind", as well as commercials and music videos across multiple platforms. At Griot and Grits, he brings his production expertise to guide volunteers, capture oral histories, and ensure every story is recorded with care, creativity, and cultural respect.

Thoan Freckleton, Music Producer

Thoan Freckleton is a Technical Project Manager at Red Hat Consulting and a music producer at Griot and Grits. A strategist and technologist at heart, Thoan is an imaginative "Questionary" who prioritizes big-picture impact over the status quo. He is deeply committed to investing in culture, community, and the creation of lasting legacy.

 

Check out Griot and Grits - Bringing Black Stories to Life

Virtual Celebrity Panel

Time: 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Location: Global Learning Center- Multipurpose Room

Special Virtual Guests: 

  • Kevin Frazier, TV Host of Entertainment Tonight and founder of urban entertainment website HipHollywood.com
    • Kevin Frazier is co-host of ENTERTAINMENT TONIGHT, the #1 entertainment newsmagazine in the world. He was named co-host in September 2014, at the start of the show’s 34th season. Season 44 marked a milestone for Frazier, his 10th anniversary as co-host and 20th year contributing to the show. A trailblazer in entertainment journalism, Frazier first joined ET in 2004 as a correspondent and weekend anchor. He later co-hosted and served as managing editor of THE INSIDER, before returning to ENTERTAINMENT TONIGHT.Known for his charisma, credibility, and wide-ranging experience, Frazier has interviewed the biggest names in Hollywood, from Oprah Winfrey to Brad Pitt to Beyoncé, and is recognized as one of the industry’s most trusted voices. His work has earned him nine Emmy Awards, including the inaugural Daytime Emmy for Personality–Daily in 2024, shared with his fellow ET talent.
  • Loni Love, Comedian, Television Host, Actress, Author, and former Electrical Engineer.
    • Loni Love is a 2x EMMY and NAACP Image Award-winning entertainer, author, and activist who brings humor, heart, and authenticity to everything she does. A proud graduate of Prairie View A&M University with a B.S. in Electrical Engineering and recipient of the university’s prestigious Presidential Medal, Loni has captivated audiences as a co-host of FOX’s The Real and E!’s Live from the Red Carpet specials, interviewing some of the biggest names in entertainment.
  • Vanessa Estelle Williams, Award-winning Actress, Singer, Writer, Director, Producer; best known for her role in the series "Soul Food."
    • Vanessa Estelle Williams is an American actress and producer with a career spanning film, television, and stage. She is widely recognized for her NAACP Image Award–winning performance as Maxine Joseph-Chadway on the Showtime drama series Soul Food, where she portrayed a layered, ambitious professional navigating family, career, and identity. Her film work includes standout roles as Keisha in New Jack City and Anne-Marie in the cult classic Candyman, performances that helped establish her presence in some of the most culturally resonant films of the 1990s.
  • Alimi Ballard, Award-winning Actor and Producer; known for his work in NBC's "Law & Order," "Queen of the South," "Numbers," and "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation"
    • Alimi Ballard ("Ali-Me") can currently be seen on NBC's iconic Law & Order as powerhouse defense attorney Ron Delahunt. He is perhaps best known as the enigmatic and ruthless Marcel Dumas in the hit Netflix series Queen of the South. Ballard spent six seasons as Special Agent David Sinclair on CBS's highly successful Numbers, produced by Tony and Ridley Scott, followed by three seasons as Detective Kevin Crawford on the global sensation CSI: Crime Scene Investigation. He delivered one of his most rewarding performances as Dr. Robert Dubois on Queen Sugar, the acclaimed drama from Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Ava DuVernay and executive producer Oprah Winfrey on OWN. Additional series regular credits include Reginald Lennox III on Shonda Rhimes's The Catch on ABC, and Kevin Clay on Peacock's One of Us Is Lying, filmed on location in New Zealand. Ballard's Hollywood journey began as the Quizmaster on Sabrina the Teenage Witch and also includes memorable roles in James Cameron's cult favorite Dark Angel and the ABC sitcom Arsenio. Additional TV credits include Criminal Minds, NCIS, Lucifer, and Elementary. Film credits include Universal's Fast Five, Men of Honor, and DreamWorks' Deep Impact.

In-Person Moderator: Linda Jones, Celebrity Publicist

Celebrity Publicist Linda Jones moderates a conversation between celebrities on creativity and the role AI plays in shaping, amplifying, and protecting their personal brand in an ever-evolving entertainment landscape.

From Content to Contracts: Understanding the Legal Side of Creativity

Time: 4:30 - 5:00 pm
Location: Global Learning Center- Multipurpose Room

Presenter: Yemi Adegbonmire, entertainment and technology attorney and Vice President of Legal and Associate General Counsel at Cineverse

You've created something — now how do you protect it? This essential session breaks down the legal landscape every artist needs to understand in the age of AI, from copyright basics and licensing to the emerging questions around AI-generated music and ownership. Whether you're an independent artist or an industry veteran, walk away with the knowledge and tools to safeguard your sound, own your story, and ensure that what you've built is protected for the long haul.

VIP Reception and A Special Announcement

Time: 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Location: Steele Hall Art Gallery

Host: Dr. Teresa Hardee, CPA, LSSBB

The VIP Reception brings together speakers, special guests, and VIP ticket holders for an intimate gathering of conversation, connection, and celebration. This is your opportunity to network with the brightest minds of the event, forge meaningful relationships, and continue the conversations that matter most in a relaxed, upscale setting.

Ticket required for entry.

Pull Back The Curtain: BLACK IN FASHION

Time: 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Location: The Coote Family Lecture Hall

Discussion, followed by a Book Signing for BLACK IN FASHION

Presenters: Black Design Collective President Kevan Hall (former designer for Halston) and TJ Walker (Cross Colours co-founder), two of the co-founders of the Black Design Collective

“PULL BACK THE CURTAIN” with Black Design Collective co-founders Kevan Hall and TJ Walker as they explore the impact of Black fashion designers and cultural icons—through the lens of  Women's Wear Daily (WWD) and as captured in Black in Fashion: 100 Years of Style, Influence & Culture by Tonya Blazio-Licorish and Tara Donaldson—while discussing how that legacy continues to shape opportunity, culture, and the next generation of creatives. The conversation will be followed by an exclusive book signing with both co-founders, who are featured in the book.

“This is not just a conversation about fashion—it’s a conversation about influence, access, and legacy.”

— Kevan Hall, President, Black Design Collective

Check out BLACK DESIGN COLLECTIVES IG account!

About Black Design Collective

Founded in 2018, the Black Design Collective is comprised of accomplished fashion industry professionals-of-color who seek to amplify the influence of and create opportunities for the community of Black apparel and accessory designers and costume designers within the US and abroad. The BDC mission is rooted in the promotion of Scholarship, Mentorship, and Entrepreneurship within emerging generations of Black fashion design talent. Through this work, the BDC aims at ultimately fostering an independent and self-sustaining Black fashion community.

  • Black Design Collective was founded by trailblazing, two-time Academy Award-winning American film costume designer Ruth E. Carter;  Kevan Hall, former designer for Halston whose clothes have been worn by First Lady Michelle Obama, Vanessa Williams, Kimora Lee Simmons, Celine Dion, Diana Ross, Salma Hayek, and others;  TJ Walker, fine artist, educator and co-founder of the iconic brand Cross Colours, who has been featured in prominent publications such as: Forbes, Details, Code, Black Enterprise, Elle, Source, Sportswear International, Vibe and Women’s Wear Daily; and Angela Dean, go-to fashion designer for some of the most famous and powerful women in the world including Madonna, Katy Perry, Oprah Winfrey, Halle Berry, adorning magazine covers, stages, and Oscar and Grammy red carpets.

Saturday, April 18, 2026

AI Music & Creators Conference Check-In

Time: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Location: Global Learning Center- Rotunda

Stop by the GLC Rotunda to check in for the AI Music & Creators Conference 2026, pickup your name badge, and receive your tickets for events.

One Room, One Song: A Live Music-Making Session

Time: 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Location: Global Learning Center- Multipurpose Room

Presenter: Lafouji Alexander, Suno VIP Beta Tester and Music Educator and Omari Clarke, Multi-Platinum-certified Record Producer and Engineer and Suno VIP Member

Moderator: Tyrica Flair, Bennett College Junior

Join a live, hands-on songwriting experience where creativity meets collaboration — participants will work together in real time to craft an original song from concept to completion, guided through every step of the creative process. Whether you're a seasoned songwriter or picking up a pen for the first time, this workshop proves that music has no barriers and every voice has something worth saying.

Black Design Collective: AI, Tech, and Sustainability

Time: 11:00 am - 12:30 pm
Location: Global Learning Center- Multipurpose Room

Presenters: Kevan Hall (former designer for Halston) and TJ Walker (Cross Colours co-founder)

Moderator: Linda Jones, Celebrity Publicist

Kevan Hall and TJ Walker, co-founders of The Black Design Collective, bring together the worlds of technology, culture, and conscious creation in a thought-provoking conversation on how AI is revolutionizing sustainable fashion. From ethical sourcing and smart design tools to reducing waste and amplifying underrepresented voices in the industry, this session explores what it means to build a fashion future that is not only innovative — but intentional, inclusive, and built to last.

Conference Luncheon and Fireside Chat with Jeannie Jones-Ledford, Tech Leader

Time: 12:30 pm - 2:00 pm
Location: Global Learning Center- Multipurpose Room

Speaker: Jeannie Jones-Ledford, President & CEO of J3 Consulting, LLC

Moderator: Tanya Reid, President & CEO, Skyrocket Communications, Inc.

Join us for a delicious luncheon sponsored by J3 Consulting, LLC, featuring an intimate fireside chat with Jeannie Jones-Ledford, President & CEO of J3. Jeannie will take us inside her remarkable journey of building a company rooted in innovation, integrity, and execution — sharing the vision, challenges, and defining moments that shaped J3 into a trusted leader in data-driven solutions.

Jeannie Jones-Ledford is the President and CEO of J3 Consulting, a firm she built from the ground up into a trusted partner delivering project management, information technology, and Cloud & AI solutions to federal and commercial clients.

A hands-on executive, Jeannie works closely with clients to develop transformational strategies while leading J3’s growth, diversification, and operational excellence. She is known for cultivating high-performing teams and instilling core values of integrity, diligence, reliability, compassion, and accountability.

Under her leadership, J3 has grown from zero revenue to a multi-million-dollar enterprise in a short time, earning recognition as a trusted industry partner. Guided by her motto, “Plan the Work…Work the Plan,” she champions innovation, forward thinking, and disciplined execution.

Committed to continuous learning, Jeannie attended Bennett College, holds certifications in Artificial Intelligence, and has participated in American University Industry Focus Groups on Change Management and Program Management. Her leadership has earned J3 the USDA Research, Education, and Economics (REE) Small Business of the Year award and multiple placements on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies, most recently in 2025. She was also honored by her peers for Women in Leadership through Forum G2X’s Leading for IMPACT program.

Jeannie resides in Fairfax, Virginia with her husband, Derrick Ledford, and their Miniature Schnauzer, Harper. She is dedicated to advancing community impact through her continued support of charitable initiatives.

J3 Consulting, LLC is the conference luncheon sponsor. The luncheon is included in the registration.

Prompt, Play, Produce: How AI Tools Are Rewriting the Creative Process

Time: 2:15 pm - 3:30 pm
Location: Global Learning Center- Multipurpose Room

Presenter: Lafouji Alexander, Suno VIP Beta Tester and Music Educator and Omari Clarke, Multi-Platinum-certified Record Producer and Engineer and Suno VIP Member

Moderator: Phanalphie Rhue, songwriter, creator, and Chief Global Communications & Experience Officer for Bennett College

From the first prompt to the final track, AI is changing everything about how music gets made. In this hands-on and eye-opening session, Lafouji Alexander, VIP Beta Tester from leading AI music platform Suno and Omari Clarke, Multi-Platinum-certified Record Producer and Engineer and Suno VIP Member, break down how artists and creators are using AI tools to ideate, experiment, and produce in ways that were unimaginable just a few years ago, including new video capabilities within Suno. Whether you're a musician, producer, or curious creative, walk away with a new understanding of what's possible when human imagination meets machine intelligence.

The Producer's Ear: What Decades Behind the Boards Teach Us About Working with AI

Time: 3:30 pm - 4:15 pm
Location: Global Learning Center- Multipurpose Room

Presenters: Lafouji Alexander, Omari Clarke, Dr. William "Worm" Blount Jr., and Rickey Thomas, Jr.

Moderator: Phanalphie Rhue, Creator, songwriter, creator, and Chief Global Communications & Experience Officer for Bennett College

What happens when decades of hard-earned music industry wisdom meets the frontier of artificial intelligence? Lafouji Alexander and legendary music director Dr. William "Worm" Blount Jr., along with Omari Clarke, and Rickey Thomas, Jr., Creative Executive Producer for Griot & Grits,  sit down with our moderator for a insider's view and revelatory conversation on what it truly means to have a producer's ear — and how that instinct, taste, and experience become your greatest advantage in an AI-powered studio. From analog roots to digital futures, this session explores how the timeless craft of music production isn't being replaced by AI, but reimagined by those wise enough to know the difference.

Networking Session

Time: 4:15 pm - 5:00 pm
Location: Global Learning Center- Multipurpose Room

Make your next great connection. This dedicated networking session is your chance to step away from the sessions, put down the notes, and have the real conversations that conferences are made for. Mix and mingle with fellow artists, technologists, educators, and industry leaders who are all navigating the same creative frontier — because sometimes the most valuable thing you leave a conference with isn't what you learned in the room, but who you met in the hallway.

Music Showcase

Time: 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Location: Global Learning Center- Multipurpose Room

Take the stage — or let your music speak for itself. The AI Music & Creators Conference Music Showcase invites artists to submit up to two original tracks for a chance to be heard, judged, and celebrated by a panel of seasoned music industry professionals. This is more than a performance — it's an opportunity to get real feedback, earn industry recognition, and walk away with something to show for your craft.

A total of two (2) submissions are permitted per guest. Each submissions is $45 per track.

Sunday, April 19, 2026

Human First: Mental Health, Creative Burnout, and Finding Your Footing Amid AI

Time: 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Location: Global Learning Center- Multipurpose Room

Special Virtual Guest: Sheryl Underwood, Emmy Award-winning television host, stand-up comedian, producer, philanthropist and HBCU Champion

Moderator: Phanalphie Rhue, Convener and Chief Global Communications & Experience Officer

In a world moving faster than ever, it's easy to lose yourself in the noise of innovation and disruption. Join Sheryl Underwood and moderators Phanalphie and Elizabeth as we represent the different levels of embrace, when it comes to AI and technology. This honest conversation puts the human experience at the center — exploring the very real toll that creative burnout, technological overwhelm, and the pressure to "keep up" with AI can take on our mental health.

Technophobe or advocate, this is the session to put it all on the table.

Whether you are a Fan or Foe of the technology, join us for a space that is as restorative as it is empowering, where we slow down and speak openly, about navigating in the age of artificial intelligence.

Fireside Chat on AI, Tech, Storytelling, and the Faith Experience

Time: 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Location: Global Learning Center- Multipurpose Room

Presenter:  Rickey Thomas, Jr., Storyteller, Creative Producer, Filmmaker, Founder of "Just Another RGTJ Productions" and former producer for Inspiration Networks, Dr. William "Worm" Blount - Music Producer, Musical Director, and founder of the Academy of the Gifted Music and Arts 4Kids, Matthew Williams - Multi-instrumentalist, Producer, and Musical Director, Ty McDuffie - Executive Director and Founder of Griot & Grits

Moderator:Elizabeth Hartwig, Creative and Bennett College Project Management Lead

Explore the intersection of faith, technology, and the future in a compelling conversation on how AI and emerging tech are transforming the way communities' worship, connect, and spread their message. From digital ministry and AI-powered outreach to the ethical questions that arise when innovation meets belief, this session takes an honest look at how faith communities can embrace the tools of tomorrow while staying rooted in the values that matter most.

Check out Griot & Grits presents The Oral Chronicles

Check out Griot and Grits - Bringing Black Stories to Life

Special Guests & Panelists

Kevan Hall

Kevan Hall is an internationally acclaimed fashion designer and former Creative Director of the iconic house Halston, where he helped steward and modernize the brand’s legacy of refined minimalism and sensual elegance. His career bridges heritage American fashion with contemporary luxury, marked by impeccable craftsmanship and timeless design.

Renowned for his impeccable tailoring and sculptural elegance, Hall has dressed an extraordinary roster of global icons, including Academy Award winner Charlize Theron, acclaimed actress and activist Kerry Washington, former First Lady Michelle Obama, media titan Oprah Winfrey, Vanessa Williams, Sandra Oh, and Viola Davis among others. His designs are a mainstay on international red carpets, major award shows, and cultural moments where elegance, power, and presence converge.
https://kevanhalldesigns.com/pages/celebrity

Beyond design, Hall is a respected creative leader and mentor and a Co-Founder of the Black Design Collective, where he champions equity, visibility, and opportunity for Black designers and costume professionals. His work continues to shape conversations around legacy, representation, and excellence in American fashion.

Check out Kevan Hall's Full Runway Show | Fashion Week El Paseo 2026

TJ Walker

For more than two decades, the clothing designs of Thomas “TJ” Walker have been featured among the pages of such prominent publications as: Forbes, Details, Code, Black Enterprise, Elle, Source, Sportswear International, Vibe and Women’s Wear Daily. Known primarily for his design prowess in the menswear apparel industry, Walker is at heart a true fine artist. Throughout his career, while simultaneously occupying the position as Educator, Creative Director, Design Consultant or Chief Creative Officer for several notable clothing companies such as Cross Colours, Groove Company, Mence, DKNY, DADA, and Converse, he has continued to indulge in his first love, fine art.

Walker, a successful designer is currently developing design programs for inner-city children to inspire and nurture the development of raw creative talent.

Check out this interview with Cross Colours co-founder TJ Walker.

Jeannie Jones-Ledford

Jeannie Jones-Ledford is the President and CEO of J3 Consulting, a firm she built from the ground up into a trusted partner delivering project management, information technology, and Cloud & AI solutions to federal and commercial clients.

A hands-on executive, Jeannie works closely with clients to develop transformational strategies while leading J3’s growth, diversification, and operational excellence. She is known for cultivating high-performing teams and instilling core values of integrity, diligence, reliability, compassion, and accountability.

Under her leadership, J3 has grown from zero revenue to a multi-million-dollar enterprise in a short time, earning recognition as a trusted industry partner. Guided by her motto, “Plan the Work…Work the Plan,” she champions innovation, forward thinking, and disciplined execution.

Committed to continuous learning, Jeannie attended Bennett College, holds certifications in Artificial Intelligence, and has participated in American University Industry Focus Groups on Change Management and Program Management. Her leadership has earned J3 the USDA Research, Education, and Economics (REE) Small Business of the Year award and multiple placements on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies, most recently in 2025. She was also honored by her peers for Women in Leadership through Forum G2X’s Leading for IMPACT program.

Jeannie resides in Fairfax, Virginia with her husband, Derrick Ledford, and their Miniature Schnauzer, Harper. She is dedicated to advancing community impact through her continued support of charitable initiatives.

Sheryl Underwood

Sheryl Underwood is a five-time Daytime Emmy Award winner, comedian, actress, and media powerhouse whose career spans television, film, radio, and live performance. She was the longest-running co-host of CBS’s The Talk, where she built one of the most loyal and wide-reaching audiences in daytime television. In March 2026, she returned to daytime as a guest co-host on ABC’s The View and is set to headline Netflix Is A Joke Fest in May 2026. She also leads the I Need a Job! national comedy tour alongside Kyle Erby and is the creator and host of the podcast Politics and Punchlines, where humor meets timely conversation. Her film credits include Bulworth, Beauty Shop, and I Got the Hook-Up.

Beyond entertainment, Underwood’s leadership and influence extend into civic, cultural, and philanthropic spaces. As the 23rd International President of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated—and the only full-time entertainer to hold the role—she led a global network with a presence on every HBCU campus in the country. She has served as an Ambassador for the Bayou Classic and as national spokesperson for Procter & Gamble’s HBCU Divine Nine Challenge, operating at the intersection of Black culture, athletics, and higher education. Her work includes negotiating national partnerships such as the Sprite Step Off and bringing together all female National Pan-Hellenic Council presidents for a landmark feature in Essence.

A recipient of five honorary doctorates, the UNCF Masked Award, an NAACP Image Award, and the People’s Choice Award, Underwood’s impact is both visible and far-reaching. Her philanthropic work includes partnerships with the UNCF, March of Dimes, American Diabetes Association, NAACP, and the Tom Joyner Foundation. A proud veteran of the United States Air Force and a native of Little Rock, Arkansas, she uses humor, storytelling, and media to connect audiences, elevate voices, and create platforms that move both culture and commerce.

Kevin Frazier

Kevin Frazier is co-host of ENTERTAINMENT TONIGHT, the #1 entertainment newsmagazine in the world. He was named co-host in September 2014, at the start of the show’s 34th season. Season 44 marked a milestone for Frazier, his 10th anniversary as co-host and 20th year contributing to the show. A trailblazer in entertainment journalism, Frazier first joined ET in 2004 as a correspondent and weekend anchor. He later co-hosted and served as managing editor of THE INSIDER, before returning to ENTERTAINMENT TONIGHT. Known for his charisma, credibility, and wide-ranging experience, Frazier has interviewed the biggest names in Hollywood, from Oprah Winfrey to Brad Pitt to Beyoncé, and is recognized as one of the industry’s most trusted voices. His work has earned him nine Emmy Awards, including the inaugural Daytime Emmy for Personality–Daily in 2024, shared with his fellow ET talent.

Beyond ENTERTAINMENT TONIGHT, Frazier has built an impressive career as a journalist, producer, and entrepreneur. He hosted the Emmy-nominated Game Changers with Kevin Frazier, which spotlighted professional athletes making a difference in their communities, and co-hosted CBS’s Clash of the Commercials. He anchored College Football on FX and Fox Sports Net, led the launch of Time Warner Cable’s SportsNet, and spent 13 years as co-host of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on CBS.

Earlier in his career, Frazier was a prominent sports broadcaster, serving as host of SportsCenter, NBA Shootaround, and NBA Fastbreak on ESPN. He also held roles at Fox, including sideline reporter for the NFL, host of pre-game shows for the NFL, NHL, and college football, and co-host of The FX Sports Show. ENTERTAINMENT TONIGHT is the #1 entertainment news show on TV with nine Emmy wins. ET ranks #1 for entertainment news video on Facebook and YouTube. ET’s social platforms generate 1.9 billion monthly impressions and more than 630 million videos views per month across all platforms.

Loni Love

Loni Love is a 2x EMMY and NAACP Image Award-winning entertainer, author, and activist who brings humor, heart, and authenticity to everything she does. A proud graduate of Prairie View A&M University with a B.S. in Electrical Engineering and recipient of the university’s prestigious Presidential Medal, Loni has captivated audiences as a co-host of FOX’s The Real and E!’s Live from the Red Carpet specials, interviewing some of the biggest names in entertainment.

She currently co-hosts the 5x GRACIE Award-winning radio show Café Mocha alongside rapper Yo-Yo, where she’s spoken with icons like President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama. A versatile performer, executive producer, and philanthropist, Loni uses her platform to entertain, inform, and inspire—uplifting women, championing HBCUs, and connecting with audiences worldwide through her wit, wisdom, and unapologetic authenticity.

Vanessa Estelle Williams

Vanessa Estelle Williams is an American actress and producer with a career spanning film, television, and stage. She is widely recognized for her NAACP Image Award–winning performance as Maxine Joseph-Chadway on the Showtime drama series Soul Food, where she portrayed a layered, ambitious professional navigating family, career, and identity. Her film work includes standout roles as Keisha in New Jack City and Anne-Marie in the cult classic Candyman, performances that helped establish her presence in some of the most culturally resonant films of the 1990s.

A Brooklyn native, Williams studied theater and business management at Marymount Manhattan College, grounding her work in both performance and production. She also made television history as the first African American main character on Melrose Place, further expanding representation in mainstream media. In addition to her on-screen work, she has appeared on Broadway, produced independent projects, and contributed to storytelling as both a writer and creative collaborator. Known for bringing strength, nuance, and authenticity to her roles, Williams continues to shape narratives across genres and platforms.

Scott A. McGregor

Management Consulting: Founder of A Bigger Table Advisory Services.

Fiscal Stewardship & Risk Mitigation: Spearheaded a national IT Modernization Program that guided HBCUs through NIST cybersecurity assessments, successfully preserving $1.7 billion in Title IV federal student aid for historically underinvested institutions. Systems Incubation & Capital Allocation: Restructured the Social Justice office into the Community Enablement & Incubation (CE&I) framework, pivoting the organization from reactive philanthropy to a proactive investment model focused on incubation, continuity, and long-term ecosystem resilience. Strategic Philanthropy: Oversees the Black Equity and Community Enablement Grant Programs, directing trust-based capital to minority-led nonprofits to address root-cause systemic inequities in healthcare, education, and justice. Digital Equity & Infrastructure Leadership: Directed the installation of $138 million in retail-value technology across 70 institutions, impacting over 265,000 students and staff through enhanced digital access and collaborative learning environments. Cyber-Workforce Strategy: Pioneered a $5 million multi-stakeholder cybersecurity workforce initiative in Mississippi and South Carolina, aligning state agencies, academic institutions, and corporate resources to address a 32% projected growth in the field.

Lafouji Alexander

LaFouji Alexander is a music educator, creative technologist, and AI music innovator with over 20 years of experience across professional production, performance, and academic leadership. He currently serves as a Director of Bands and is recognized as a pioneer of the Digital Orchestra—leading one of the first ensembles of its kind to perform on the mainstage at Disney, redefining how technology and live performance intersect.

 

Omari Clarke

Omari Clarke is a Multi-Platinum-certified record producer and engineer based in Los Angeles with over a decade of experience operating at the highest levels of the music industry. From running production sessions with Don Toliver at Westlake Studios where Michael Jackson recorded Thriller, to contributing to Fivio Foreign’s Billboard-charting Bible album where he performed synth bass on “Through the Fire” featuring Quavo, Omari has established himself as one of the most versatile and accomplished studio professionals working today.

Recognized by Variety as part of their 2024 Power of Young Hollywood feature and named a GQ 2023 Man of the Year, Omari brings a rare combination of technical mastery, creative vision, and real-world industry experience to every room he enters. A pioneer in integrating AI music tools into professional studio and camp workflows, his network spans artists, A&R executives, label partners, and studio professionals across genres and continents. As a VIP member of Suno, he receives exclusive early access to their newest features before public release, providing direct feedback and recommendations that shape the direction of the platform. Through his speaking engagements, Omari offers students an unfiltered, firsthand perspective on what it truly takes to build a lasting career at the intersection of music, technology, and creativity.

He has played on Alicia Keys’ grand piano during sessions for Lil Tjay’s Platinum and Gold-certified Destined 2 Win album, served as Head Engineer for Sony Music’s writing camps including sessions alongside BNYX, Mario, Corey Henry, and Grammy Award-winning R&B artist Leon Thomas, and produced alongside Timbaland and Mike Will Made It at the Beatclub x ASCAP camp in Miami. He led technical operations for Roc Nation’s Humble Soles project in collaboration with Puma, has executed international recording sessions at G.B.’s Studios in Osaka, Japan, and served as the live engineer behind Future’s performance at the Don’t Fall in Love Festival in San Bernardino, as well as Don Toliver’s autotune for a TikTok Super Bowl event and Spotify’s Allstar Weekend.

 

Dr. William "Worm" Blount

Dr. William “Worm” Blount Jr. is a renowned musical director and bassist from Paterson, New Jersey, whose passion for music began at a young age under the guidance of his brother, Edward “Dick” McKenzie. After mastering the bass guitar in his family band, Worm’s career took off when he connected with Damion Hall of Guy and signed to Crazy Legs Productions.

With over 30 years in the industry, Worm has toured, produced, and recorded with legendary artists including Aaliyah, Teddy Riley, New Edition, Destiny’s Child, Notorious B.I.G., and Mary J. Blige. He has served as Musical Director on major arena tours and stage productions, including A Good Man is Hard to Find.

A Grammy and Soul Train Award winner, Worm has also received honorary doctorates and lifetime achievement honors. He now leads the Academy of the Gifted, mentoring youth and expanding access to music education nationwide.

Rickey Thomas Jr.

A storyteller, creative producer, film maker and experienced media producer. He is the founder of the creative banner "Just Another RGTJ Productions" and former producer for Inspiration Networks. At Griot and Grits, he brings his production expertise to guide volunteers, capture oral histories, and ensure every story is recorded with care, creativity, and cultural respect.

Yemi Adegbonmire

Yemi Adegbonmire is an entertainment and technology attorney with a distinguished career spanning media, corporate governance, and public advocacy. As Vice President of Legal and Associate General Counsel at Cineverse, Yemi provides legal strategy, risk mitigation, growth, and business alignment across Cineverse’s media technologies and its expansive digital content and distribution ecosystem.

Prior to joining Cineverse, Yemi served as General Counsel and Corporate Secretary at The Bail Project and previously held executive legal roles at The Walt Disney Company, advising on digital marketing, privacy regulations, global content distribution, gaming, and intellectual property matters. Her expertise also extends to network television, having provided legal counsel on high-profile programming at the ABC Television Network.

Yemi was honored with an In-House Counsel Leadership Award by the Los Angeles Times in 2024 and was a finalist for the Los Angeles Business Journal’s General Counsel of the Year award in 2019 and 2020. Beyond her corporate leadership, Yemi is a speaker and educator, frequently guest lecturing at universities and contributing insights at industry conferences on entertainment law. She serves on Wake Forest University’s Law Board of Visitors, Lambda Legal’s Emeritus Board of Directors, The State Bar of California’s Council on Access and Fairness in the Profession, Outfest’s Board of Directors, and is a chartering member of the West Africa Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.

A Baltimore native, Yemi holds an MHS in Health Policy from Johns Hopkins University and BA and JD degrees from Wake Forest University. Passionate about storytelling in all its forms, Yemi is an avid traveler, music enthusiast, and creative force in the arts.

Read more about Yemi here.

Kameron Buckner

Kameron is a lawyer, 10+ year content creator with an audience of 180,000+, and tech founder building Social Docket, an AI-powered platform providing modern legal infrastructure for the creator economy. Over the past 5+ years, she has advised hundreds of creators on negotiating higher-paying brand deals, protecting their intellectual property, and truly understanding the contracts they sign. As a creator herself, Kameron has partnered with brands including Olay, HoneyBook, and LinkedIn, giving her a first-hand understanding of how brand partnerships, contracts, and negotiations actually work in practice. Through Social Docket, the focus is making contract intelligence and legal protection fast, accessible, and creator-first for an industry historically overlooked by traditional legal services. To collaborate, book speaking engagements, or connect at the intersection of law, tech, and the creator economy, contact hello@kameronmonet.com

Chenae Erkerd

A diverse and creative mid-career recruiter with an expertise in healthcare and technical recruiting. I utilize my communication skills, customer relations experience, compliance, and legal background to find the best and most qualified talent for positions. I am an expert in event planning, a skill that I utilize to cultivate recruitment efforts for virtual and onsite events. Additionally, I authored three books of poetry entitled "Vent: The Different Faces of Me", "I Almost Held On", and "Woman". They are books of poetry outlining who I am, my interest, my life experiences and what I plan to accomplish.

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