At Off The Yard, we’re all about giving flowers to the brilliance rising from HBCU campuses across the country. In 2025, The Genius List salutes 15 innovators blending culture, community, and technology to lead us into the future.
From state-appointed AI officials to tech
founders building community-driven
startups—explore their stories.
Get inspired.
See how HBCU trailblazers are
shaping what’s next.
Markus Robinson
FLORIDA AGRICULTURAL & MECHANICAL UNIVERSITY
Jonathan White
HOWARD UNIVERSITY
Jonee Love
HAMPTON UNIVERSITY
Joey Taylor
OAKWOOD UNIVERSITY
Dr. Aprille Ericsson
HOWARD UNIVERSITY
Rodney Williams
HAMPTON UNIVERSITY
Leon Burns III
HOWARD UNIVERSITY
Shawn Wilkinson
MOREHOUSE COLLEGE
Derick Pearson
MOREHOUSE COLLEGE
Taylor Davis
HOWARD UNIVERSITY
Peter Iwuh
MORGAN STATE UNIVERSITY
Eno Oduok
Prairie View A&M University
Dr. Isi Ero-Johnson
JACKSON STATE UNIVERSITY
Skánia Florestal
VIRGINIA STATE UNIVERSITY
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2025 HONOREES
Jonathan White
HBCU AFFILIATION: HOWARD UNIVERSITY
DIRECTOR OF PARTNERSHIPS FOR TECHSGIVING / FOUNDER OF WHY NOT NOW LLC
From Chicago to Silicon Success: Jonathan White on His Journey in Digital Equity & AI
Off The Yard sat down with Gen(AI)us List honoree Jonathan White to discuss his path from Chicago to tech leadership, the lessons learned at Morgan State University, and his ongoing mission to make digital equity and AI more accessible to the next generation.
Off The Yard: How did your journey into tech begin?
Jonathan White: The first time I really got a chance to see HBCUs, I was part of a program called Upward Bound. My director went to Howard University, so she made sure we visited. I didn’t know much about HBCUs at the time, but that tour—Howard and Morgan—completely opened my eyes. That trip eventually led me, along with 25 other students from Chicago, to Morgan State University through a scholarship program led by Emanuel Jackson.
Off The Yard: What did Morgan State teach you that still influences your career today?
White: Morgan taught me how to be a man. There are no give-outs there. If you receive a “no,” it’s your job to find another way for them to say “yes.” That mindset shaped everything I’ve done since—from sales and marketing to leadership in tech.
Off The Yard: You helped lead HP ’ s Path to Digital Equity program at Blavity. What impact did that have?
White: That initiative was designed to give underserved communities and universities access to tech careers. We highlighted Black professionals in engineering, project management, and other roles within the HP ecosystem. Sometimes, you just need to see someone doing it to believe it’s possible. We also provided sessions, mentorship, and real career pipelines. Because if your internal organization doesn’t reflect the customers you serve, you’re living within your ceiling. That program helped bring HBCU graduates into the tech space and expand opportunities for young Black professionals.
“Sometimes you just need to see it to believe it.”
Off The Yard: You’ve talked about AI being the next big shift. How do you see its role in the future?
White: AI is the future—and the future is happening right now. Not learning AI today is like ignoring the internet in its early days. If you’re not using AI in your day-to-day life, you’re being reactive instead of proactive. AI will create entirely new roles. If you start aligning yourself now, you’ll be positioned to thrive when those opportunities grow.
Off The Yard: Have you faced challenges navigating the tech industry as a Black professional?
White: Absolutely. I’ve often been the only Black guy in the room. But I look at that as an opportunity to lead and mentor. Once you reach a certain level, you have to bring the next person in and help clean them up for their own success. That’s part of my responsibility.
Off The Yard: What does being named to the Gen(AI)us List mean to you?
White: It’s an honor, but it’s also a reminder that my work isn’t done. I want as many people on this train as possible. I want someone to look at me and say, “I can see myself being Jonathan, and I want to get on that list too.”
My journey—from Chicago to Morgan State to the forefront of AI—is all about opening doors and expanding opportunities. This isn’t just my story; it’s a roadmap for the next generation of Black tech leaders.
2025 HONOREES
From FAMU To The Future Of AI: Markus Robinson’s Journey In Tech & Leadership When Markus Robinson first stepped onto Florida & University’s campus as a high schooler, he felt something shift.
“I just remember looking at that campus and looking at all those beautiful Black people dancing and having fun and just felt like an environment that I really wanted to be a part of,” he recalled to OffTheYard. That moment sealed his decision to join a long line of HBCU graduates in his family, charting a path that would eventually lead him to the cutting edge of artificial intelligence as Senior Vice President of Product and Technology at Interactive One. Robinson’s beginnings at FAMU weren’t linear. He arrived as a physical therapy major
before his mother reminded him to lean into his lifelong passion. “She was like, ‘Marcus, what have you always been interested in?’ I said, ‘I like to tinker… I used to love technology.’ She said, ‘Well, why don’t you just major in that?’” That advice pushed him to switch to computer science, a choice that unlocked his career. While still a student, Robinson launched a small business designing websites for student government candidates and local businesses. By the time he graduated, he had already built a reputation as a capable coder. Yet his first professional role, managing technology for Florida State University’s police department, was more about support than software. “It was cool, it was technology, but it wasn’t the coding side of the equation,” he said to OffTheYard. Still, the experience taught him how to manage high- pressure systems and planted the seeds for his entrepreneurial instincts. In 2007, Robinson co-founded Black Web 2.0 with Angela Benton, a pioneering digital media platform that spotlighted Black voices in technology.
From there, he leaned fully into consulting, advising companies across the country on how to harness technology. That work eventually caught the attention of Urban One, which brought him in to lead its
developers and engineers. Within two years, Robinson rose from lead developer to vice president, a leap he describes as a defining career moment. “It just kind of proved to me that I can compete with talent from all over the world.” Competing in tech as a Black professional, however, wasn’t without challenges. Robinson remembers being underestimated, even as a student. “The assumption was my education was going to be bottom tier just because I happened to go to an HBCU,” he said to OffTheYard. “It made me realize I couldn’t rest on being average. I’ve got to grind, I’ve got to work harder, I’ve got to stay up to date with everything technology.”
Today, Robinson is helping redefine the future of AI at Interactive One, the digital arm of Urban One. His team has introduced tools that suggest SEO headlines, generate smart tags, and even manage content categorization automatically. But his vision stretches beyond media. “My boss has challenged me to say, how can AI make everyone in our entire company better?” Robinson said, pointing to experiments with AI in HR, legal, and data analytics. He envisions a future where employees can bypass complex
dashboards altogether and simply ask Slack, “What was the most popular post on my site yesterday?”
For Robinson, AI isn’t about replacing human creativity, especially in Black media, it’s about amplifying it. “AI can write, but nowhere near as good as you,” he said, nodding to his editorial colleagues. “It doesn’t speak to us like you would. But it can give you the best SEO headline for what you wrote. It enables you to be an expert in writing content that resonates with people, and the rest AI can handle.” Looking back, Robinson credits FAMU with giving him more than technical skills and emboldening him with confidence. “One of the most important things I got from college was how to conduct myself in certain spaces,” he said to OffTheYard. “Your HBCU education is not second rate. I’ve had folks from Harvard work for me, period.” His advice to the next generation of HBCU students eyeing tech careers is clear: trust your training, articulate your value, and outwork the competition. “When you dare to outwork everybody else, there’s no doubt in my mind that smart people will see your grind,” Robinson said. “And you won’t have any problems moving up the corporate.
Markus Robinson
HBCU AFFILIATION: FLORIDA AGRICULTURAL & MECHANICAL UNIVERSITY
PRESIDENT OF PRODUCT & TECH, iONE DIGITAL
2025 HONOREES
Jonee Love is a powerhouse in executive recruitment, bringing more than a decade of
experience connecting top-tier talent with world-class organizations.
As a Senior Executive Recruiter at Compass Group USA—the world’s largest food service and hospitality company—she leads the charge in securing senior-level and C-suite talent. Her work fuels Compass Group’s growth and ensures the company continues to set the standard for operational excellence across industries. Before joining Compass Group, Jonee made her mark as a Director at Dinte Global Executive Search, where she was a pivotal member of the leadership team. She successfully guided executive searches in Technology, IT startups, Aerospace & Defense, and Government Solutions, partnering with clients that ranged from Fortune 500 giants to private equity-backed disruptors.
Her career journey also includes shaping talent strategies at Fannie Mae, one of the nation’s leading sources of mortgage financing, where she executed enterprise-wide senior recruitment. Earlier, at Heidrick & Struggles, she honed her skills in the Global Technology & Services Practice, delivering high-impact executive searches in fast- paced, global markets.Jone
e’s career foundation was built on seven years of spearheading campus recruitment for major IT organizations—cultivating early talent pipelines and amplifying employer brands at some of the nation’s top universities. A proud Hampton University alumna, Jonee holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. Her track record reflects not only her ability to identify and place transformational leaders but also her passion for shaping the future of executive leadership.
Jonee Love
HBCU AFFILIATION: HAMPTON UNIVERSITY
SENIOR EXECUTIVE RECRUITER AT COMPASS GROUP USA
2025 HONOREES
Joey Taylor, Founder & CEO, Mycelium
HBCU Affiliation: Oakwood University, Class of 2024
Joey Taylor is an innovator combining neuroscience, AI, and game design. A 2024 graduate of Oakwood University, he is the creator of Mycelium, a brain‑computer interface prototype that transforms neural signals into game‑controller inputs. Using nodes and magnets to detect electromagnetic brain activity, his work bridges hardware, software, and human cognition to open new pathways for how we interact with technology.
Taylor’s journey began with limited access to technology in Costa Rica, where he built his first computer out of salvaged parts. Early roles as a data engineer, work in research labs, and experience interning at NASA at 18 sharpened his technical skills and ambition. In 2025, Mycelium won first place and a $15,000 prize at the HBCU Founders Initiative’s Better Futures Competition.
Beyond invention, Taylor is committed to representation and mentorship, frequently visiting schools in Alabama and Georgia to show students what is possible when someone who looks like them achieves in tech.
Impact Statement: “I just want to create technology that helps people, that connects us, that changes how we see the world.” — Joey Taylor, Yahoo! Tech, 2024
Joey Taylor
HBCU AFFILIATION: CLASS OF 2024 OAKWOOD UNIVERSITY
FOUNDER & CEO, MYCELIUM
2025 HONOREES
Dr. Aprille Ericsson, Aerospace Engineer & Former NASA Scientist HBCU Affiliation: Howard University
Dr. Aprille Ericsson is a trailblazer in aerospace engineering and technology leadership. A proud Howard University alumna, she has broken barriers as the first African American woman to receive a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Howard, and later served as NASA’s Assistant Secretary of Defense for Science and Technology. Throughout her career, Ericsson has led cutting-edge projects in space science, satellite technology, and systems engineering, shaping the way innovation and research are applied to space exploration and defense.
Her journey reflects the power of mentorship and representation in STEM. Beyond her technical achievements, Ericsson actively advocates for young women and underrepresented minorities in science and engineering, inspiring the next generation of innovators to pursue ambitious careers in aerospace and AI-related technologies.
Impact Statement: ““My mom was always saying, 'You can do it, girl!'"
My mom has always been my #1 cheerleader. During my childhood, many girls were marginalized or forced into stereotypical roles and being told, ‘girls don’t do that.’
In contrast, my mom always encouraged me, whether it was riding a bike, playing basketball, learning karate, doing science fair projects, or excelling at math. To this day, I absolutely still believe her empowering words, ‘You can do it, girl!’ and I remind my daughter daily that she can do whatever she sets her mind to!”—-Dr. Aprille Ericsson, STEM Greenhouse 2023
Dr. Aprille Ericsson
HBCU AFFILIATION: HOWARD UNIVERSITY
Aerospace Engineer & Former NASA Scientist
2025 HONOREES
Rodney Williams, Co-Founder & President, SoLo Funds HBCU Affiliation: Howard University
Rodney Williams is a serial innovator at the intersection of fintech, audio technology, and community empowerment. A proud graduate of Howard University, he is the Co-Founder and President of SoLo Funds, the largest community finance platform in the U.S., where over 2 million users have funded more than 1.5 million loans. Under his leadership, SoLo became the nation’s only Black-led Certified B Corp fintech, reimagining how technology can democratize access to capital.
Before SoLo, Williams founded LISNR, a high-frequency, data-over-audio technology that enables secure, contactless communication between devices. The company has powered over 100 million connections and earned recognition from CNBC’s Disruptor 50 and Ad Age’s 40 Under 40. His work embodies HBCU-bred innovation, merging technical precision, cultural insight, and a commitment to financial equity.
Impact Statement: “Just go for it, take risks. Those are the types of people that tend to change the world — the type of people that think they can.” — Rodney Williams, AfroTech 2019
Rodney Williams
HBCU AFFILIATION: HAMPTON UNIVERSITY
Co-Founder & President, SoLo Funds
2025 HONOREES
Leon Burns III, President & CEO, Open Technology Group HBCU Affiliation: Hampton University
Leon Burns is a visionary leader at the forefront of technology and diversity in the federal contracting space. As President and CEO of Open Technology Group (OTG), Burns has transformed the company into a trailblazer in delivering innovative IT solutions to federal clients. His leadership is marked by a deep commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB), ensuring that underrepresented communities have access to opportunities in tech.
A proud Hampton University alumnus, Burns earned his Bachelor of Science in Management before pursuing an MBA at Long Island University. His career trajectory—from ground operations to help desk, management, and quality assurance—has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of the tech industry. Under his guidance, OTG has expanded its reach and continues to deliver cutting-edge solutions to some of the most critical governmental projects in the region.
Beyond his professional achievements, Burns is dedicated to giving back to his alma mater. In August 2025, he launched a $100,000 scholarship initiative to support Hampton University students pursuing careers in technology, analytics, and innovation pathways. This commitment underscores his belief in the power of education and mentorship to drive systemic change.
Impact Statement: "I made it a point after I found my footing in my career to work hard enough to open up doors for people that came behind me, especially the ones that looked like me, so that we could advance in tech.” —- Leon Burns III, AfroTech 2025
Leon Burns III
HBCU AFFILIATION: HOWARD UNIVERSITY
Aerospace Engineer & Former NASA Scientist
2025 HONOREES
Shawn Wilkinson, Founder & CEO, Prodia HBCU Affiliation: Morehouse College
Shawn Wilkinson is a serial entrepreneur, technology innovator and founder of the world’s largest decentralized cloud storage company, Storj. A true tech genAIus, he’s now the founder and CEO of Prodia, the world’s fastest API platform for AI-powered image generation and editing. A proud graduate of Morehouse College, Wilkinson has leveraged his computer science expertise to develop tools that empower creators, businesses, and developers to seamlessly integrate AI-driven imaging into digital products.
Under Wilkinson’s leadership, Prodia raised $15 million in seed funding to expand its scalable, affordable AI inference solutions, democratizing access to high-performance AI for creative and commercial users. The company has rapidly become a leading solution in AI image processing, supporting clients around the globe with a distributed network of GPUs that make AI-powered tools faster and more cost-effective.
Impact Statement: "Don’t burn yourself out. We have an open community here. Be transparent. I have seen a lot of startups who protect their ideas as something sacred, but 99 percent of them fail. Encourage feedback and get good advice.”—Shawn Wilkinson, Tech Square Labs 2017
Shawn Wilkinson
HBCU AFFILIATION: MOREHOUSE COLLEGE
Founder & CEO, Prodia
2025 HONOREES
Derick Pearson is a visionary social entrepreneur dedicated to transforming Black communities through innovation, access, and opportunity.
A proud Morehouse College graduate, he serves as the Founder, President, and CFO of Center For Black Innovation, formerly Code Fever Miami, an organization that teaches minority youth how to code, create technologies, and become entrepreneurs. Co-founded with his wife, Felecia Hatcher, it’s reshaping Black communities into thriving, value-producing innovation spaces. Under Pearson’s leadership, CFBI has become a cornerstone of South Florida’s innovation ecosystem. Through initiatives like BlackTech Meetups, BlackTech Office Hours, and the nationally recognized Black Tech Week, the organization connects emerging founders with investors, mentors, and resources to drive sustainable economic growth.
Pearson also co-founded A Space Called Tribe, a co-working and innovation space designed to foster collaboration among Black entrepreneurs. His pioneering work has been recognized by NBC, The Huffington Post, and The Source, and he has been honored as a White House Champion of Change, BMe Fellow, and SXSW Advisor.
Impact Statement: “If you want to have a more resilient, more ruthless and responsive civilization in the United States, you need to make sure that all parties that make up the body of American citizens, or active participants, are looked after. They’re not disenfranchised, they’re not marginalized, they’re not quieted, they’re not oppressed, and they’re active.”—Derick Pearson, Miami Herald 2023
Derick Pearson
HBCU AFFILIATION: MOREHOUSE COLLEGE
Founder, President & CFO, Center For Black Innovation
2025 HONOREES
Taylor Davis is a tech entrepreneur and innovator in AI-powered lifestyle applications.
A proud Howard University graduate, she is the founder of Troodie, an AI-driven app that helps users discover and plan food and travel experiences tailored to their preferences. By leveraging machine learning and personalization algorithms, Troodie enhances how people explore new destinations and culinary experiences, bridging technology with everyday lifestyle needs.
Davis’s work reflects a commitment to making AI tools accessible, user-friendly, and culturally relevant. Troodie’s platform not only simplifies travel and dining decisions but also provides opportunities for local businesses and communities to gain visibility in a highly personalized digital environment. Her approach exemplifies how HBCU-trained talent is shaping the future of AI applications that touch daily life.
Impact Statement: "One of my favorite features is how users can join Communities and share and curate recommendations together. It truly brings the joy of connection through food and travel into one place." — Taylor Davis, BlackBusiness.com, 2025
Taylor Davis
HBCU AFFILIATION: HOWARD UNIVERSITY
Founder, Troodie
2025 HONOREES
Taylor Davis is a tech entrepreneur and innovator in AI-powered lifestyle applications.
A proud Howard University graduate, she is the founder of Troodie, an AI-driven app that helps users discover and plan food and travel experiences tailored to their preferences. By leveraging machine learning and personalization algorithms, Troodie enhances how people explore new destinations and culinary experiences, bridging technology with everyday lifestyle needs.
Davis’s work reflects a commitment to making AI tools accessible, user-friendly, and culturally relevant. Troodie’s platform not only simplifies travel and dining decisions but also provides opportunities for local businesses and communities to gain visibility in a highly personalized digital environment. Her approach exemplifies how HBCU-trained talent is shaping the future of AI applications that touch daily life.
Impact Statement: "One of my favorite features is how users can join Communities and share and curate recommendations together. It truly brings the joy of connection through food and travel into one place." — Taylor Davis, BlackBusiness.com, 2025
Peter Iwuh
HBCU AFFILIATION: MORGAN STATE UNIVERSITY
Founder & CEO, Tykoon AI
2025 HONOREES
Eno Oduok is a forward-thinking technologist and entrepreneur working at the intersection of AI, energy, and sustainability.
While completing her MBA at Prairie View A&M, she founded el powr, described as a “Fitbit for commercial buildings.” The AI-powered energy management platform helps commercial buildings and school systems optimize energy use, reduce costs, and lower carbon emissions.. Her startup earned third place in the HBCU Founders Initiative’s 2025 Better Futures Competition. Oduok and her el powr team is now focused on securing clients and partners, particularly in real estate, education, and sustainability. Recently accepted into Pharrell Williams’ So Ambitious Pre-Accelerator Program, el powr continues to scale its impact and refine its business model for long-term growth.
Oduok credits her time at Techstars Alabama, where she served as an operations associate, with shaping the foundation for el powr. There, she gained insight into the energy and climate challenges facing modern communities and learned from a network of investors, corporate partners like Alabama Power, and local innovators.
Impact Statement: “I want people — especially young people, especially people that come from similar communities that I come from, whether they are a woman, they’re black — to be like ‘If she could do that, imagine what I could do.’ That means everything to me.” —Eno Oduok, AfroTech 2025
Dr. Isi Ero-Johnson Dean, School of Science, Hampton University,
HBCU Affiliation: Jackson State University (B.S., M.S.)
Eno Oduok
HBCU AFFILIATION: Prairie View A&M University,
Class of 2025
Founder & CEO, el powr
2025 HONOREES
HBCU Affiliation: Dr. Isi Ero-Johnson, a Jackson State University alumna, is the Dean of Hampton University’s School of Science and a trailblazer in AI and technology in higher education.
Appointed to Virginia’s newly established Artificial Intelligence Task Force, she advises policymakers on ethical AI implementation, educational innovation, and strategic technology adoption across the Commonwealth. Her research spans biological sciences and science education, with publications in leading journals such as Nature Chemical Biology and Journal of Research in Science Education.
At Hampton, Dr. Ero-Johnson is pioneering the integration of AI into classrooms and research programs, from analyzing complex scientific data to developing personalized learning tools for students. Through her leadership in Hampton’s “Elevating Hampton Excellence” initiative, she drives innovation, academic rigor, and community impact. By bridging HBCU excellence with cutting-edge AI research and ethical technology deployment, Dr. Ero-Johnson is empowering the next generation of STEM leaders to innovate responsibly and boldly.
Impact Statement: As a member of the Governor’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) Taskforce, I’m honored to be able to provide insights into the future and current roles of AI in higher education,” Ero-Johnson said. “Hampton University has long discussed technology, its transformation, and its use within the classroom to include forms of generative AI, such as ChatGPT and more. I’ll be bringing aspects of these types of discussions and more with our faculty into the advice that we bring to policymakers as they continue to elevate Virginia in the AI space.” Hampton University Press Release, 2025
Dr. Isi Ero-Johnson
HBCU AFFILIATION: JACKSON STATE UNIVERSITY (B.S., M.S.)
Founder, Troodie
2025 HONOREES
Skánia Florestal’s journey is rooted in resilience, community, and a deep belief in the transformative power of HBCUs.
After choosing Virginia State University (Class of 2008), she quickly found her purpose in service and connection, experiences that continue to shape her career. As a proud Trojan, she has translated her HBCU experience into a mission-driven career at the intersection of technology, culture, and community building.
Today, Skánia is the Founder & CEO of HBCUMADE, the first social network built exclusively for HBCU alumni and students. Under her leadership, HBCUMADE recently launched the Homecoming Concierge, a groundbreaking digital hub centralizing the $2.5 billion HBCU Homecoming economy. With alumni travel up 35% in recent years, the Concierge solves a long-standing infrastructure gap by bringing together discounted hotel stays, curated event listings, and a cultural calendar covering 100+ HBCUs. Backed by Techstars and leading investors, the platform has already secured 25 hotel partnerships, grown to more than 14,000 members, and is redefining how Black professionals experience and sustain their traditions.For
Skánia, this work is about more than innovation — it’s about building the digital backbone for HBCU culture itself, ensuring that the connections and celebrations born on campus continue for generations to come.HBCU
AffiliationVirg
inia State University — Class of 2008Pull
-Quote / Highlight Statement“We’
re not just building a booking platform — we’re creating the digital backbone forHBCU
culture itself.” — Skánia Florestal
Skánia Florestal
HBCU AFFILIATION: VIRGINIA STATE UNIVERSITY - CLASS OF 2008
Founder & CEO of HBCUMADE
Markus Robinson
FLORIDA AGRICULTURAL & MECHANICAL UNIVERSITY
Jonathan White
HOWARD UNIVERSITY
Jonee Love
HAMPTON UNIVERSITY
Joey Taylor
OAKWOOD UNIVERSITY
Dr. Aprille Ericsson
HOWARD UNIVERSITY
Rodney Williams
HAMPTON UNIVERSITY
Leon Burns III
HOWARD UNIVERSITY
Shawn Wilkinson
MOREHOUSE COLLEGE
Derick Pearson
MOREHOUSE COLLEGE
Taylor Davis
HOWARD UNIVERSITY
Peter Iwuh
MORGAN STATE UNIVERSITY
Eno Oduok
Prairie View A&M University
Dr. Isi Ero-Johnson
JACKSON STATE UNIVERSITY
Skánia Florestal
VIRGINIA STATE UNIVERSITY
Jasmine Crowe-Houston
NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL UNIVERSITY
2025 HONOREES
Jasmine Crowe-Houston is a visionary social entrepreneur merging technology, sustainability, and social justice. A proud 2005 graduate of North Carolina Central University, she is the founder and CEO of Goodr, a groundbreaking food-waste management company that uses blockchain, AI, and data analytics to combat hunger and create a more efficient, equitable food ecosystem.
Founded in 2017, Goodr has diverted over 40 million pounds of food from landfills, providing tens of millions of meals to communities in need while reducing harmful greenhouse gas emissions. The company partners with major corporations, municipalities, and airports, including Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the NBA, and Amazon, to track surplus inventory and route it to shelters, schools, and nonprofits using Goodr's innovative logistics and waste-tracking platform. Through Goodr, Jasmine Crowe-Houston continues to champion diversity in AI and technology, proving how data-driven solutions can disrupt hunger and drive social equity in communities nationwide.
Impact Statement: “Start by measuring the problem you want to solve. You cannot manage what you do not measure. Once you see the data, it will point you toward practical levers you can pull, the partners you need, and the policy or logistics gaps you can close. And keep your solutions simple and repeatable so others can adopt them at scale.” —Jasmine Crowe-Houston, StratLabs 2025
Jasmine Crowe-Houston
HBCU AFFILIATION: North Carolina Central University, Class of 2005
Founder & CEO, Goodr
Jasmine Crowe-Houston
NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL UNIVERSITY
2025 HONOREES
Skánia Florestal’s journey is rooted in resilience, community, and a deep belief in the transformative power of HBCUs.
After choosing Virginia State University (Class of 2008), she quickly found her purpose in service and connection, experiences that continue to shape her career. As a proud Trojan, she has translated her HBCU experience into a mission-driven career at the intersection of technology, culture, and community building.
Today, Skánia is the Founder & CEO of HBCUMADE, the first social network built exclusively for HBCU alumni and students. Under her leadership, HBCUMADE recently launched the Homecoming Concierge, a groundbreaking digital hub centralizing the $2.5 billion HBCU Homecoming economy. With alumni travel up 35% in recent years, the Concierge solves a long-standing infrastructure gap by bringing together discounted hotel stays, curated event listings, and a cultural calendar covering 100+ HBCUs. Backed by Techstars and leading investors, the platform has already secured 25 hotel partnerships, grown to more than 14,000 members, and is redefining how Black professionals experience and sustain their traditions.For
Skánia, this work is about more than innovation — it’s about building the digital backbone for HBCU culture itself, ensuring that the connections and celebrations born on campus continue for generations to come.HBCU
AffiliationVirg
inia State University — Class of 2008Pull
-Quote / Highlight Statement“We’
re not just building a booking platform — we’re creating the digital backbone forHBCU
culture itself.” — Skánia Florestal
Skánia Florestal
HBCU AFFILIATION: VIRGINIA STATE
UNIVERSITY - CLASS OF 2008
Founder & CEO of HBCUMADE
Markus Robinson
FLORIDA AGRICULTURAL & MECHANICAL UNIVERSITY
Jonathan White
HOWARD UNIVERSITY
Jonee Love
HAMPTON UNIVERSITY
Joey Taylor
OAKWOOD UNIVERSITY
Dr. Aprille Ericsson
HOWARD UNIVERSITY
Rodney Williams
HAMPTON UNIVERSITY
Leon Burns III
HOWARD UNIVERSITY
Shawn Wilkinson
MOREHOUSE COLLEGE
Derick Pearson
MOREHOUSE COLLEGE
Taylor Davis
HOWARD UNIVERSITY
Peter Iwuh
MORGAN STATE UNIVERSITY
Dr. Isi Ero-Johnson
JACKSON STATE UNIVERSITY
Eno Oduok
Prairie View A&M University
Skánia Florestal
VIRGINIA STATE UNIVERSITY
Jasmine Crowe-Houston
NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL UNIVERSITY
2025 HONOREES
From FAMU To The Future Of AI: Markus Robinson’s Journey In Tech & Leadership When Markus Robinson first stepped onto Florida & University’s campus as a high schooler, he felt something shift.
“I just remember looking at that campus and looking at all those beautiful Black people dancing and having fun and just felt like an environment that I really wanted to be a part of,” he recalled to OffTheYard. That moment sealed his decision to join a long line of HBCU graduates in his family, charting a path that would eventually lead him to the cutting edge of artificial intelligence as Senior Vice President of Product and Technology at Interactive One. Robinson’s beginnings at FAMU weren’t linear. He arrived as a physical therapy major
before his mother reminded him to lean into his lifelong passion. “She was like, ‘Marcus, what have you always been interested in?’ I said, ‘I like to tinker… I used to love technology.’ She said, ‘Well, why don’t you just major in that?’” That advice pushed him to switch to computer science, a choice that unlocked his career. While still a student, Robinson launched a small business designing websites for student government candidates and local businesses. By the time he graduated, he had already built a reputation as a capable coder. Yet his first professional role, managing technology for Florida State University’s police department, was more about support than software. “It was cool, it was technology, but it wasn’t the coding side of the equation,” he said to OffTheYard. Still, the experience taught him how to manage high- pressure systems and planted the seeds for his entrepreneurial instincts. In 2007, Robinson co-founded Black Web 2.0 with Angela Benton, a pioneering digital media platform that spotlighted Black voices in technology.
From there, he leaned fully into consulting, advising companies across the country on how to harness technology. That work eventually caught the attention of Urban One, which brought him in to lead its
developers and engineers. Within two years, Robinson rose from lead developer to vice president, a leap he describes as a defining career moment. “It just kind of proved to me that I can compete with talent from all over the world.” Competing in tech as a Black professional, however, wasn’t without challenges. Robinson remembers being underestimated, even as a student. “The assumption was my education was going to be bottom tier just because I happened to go to an HBCU,” he said to OffTheYard. “It made me realize I couldn’t rest on being average. I’ve got to grind, I’ve got to work harder, I’ve got to stay up to date with everything technology.”
Today, Robinson is helping redefine the future of AI at Interactive One, the digital arm of Urban One. His team has introduced tools that suggest SEO headlines, generate smart tags, and even manage content categorization automatically. But his vision stretches beyond media. “My boss has challenged me to say, how can AI make everyone in our entire company better?” Robinson said, pointing to experiments with AI in HR, legal, and data analytics. He envisions a future where employees can bypass complex
dashboards altogether and simply ask Slack, “What was the most popular post on my site yesterday?”
For Robinson, AI isn’t about replacing human creativity, especially in Black media, it’s about amplifying it. “AI can write, but nowhere near as good as you,” he said, nodding to his editorial colleagues. “It doesn’t speak to us like you would. But it can give you the best SEO headline for what you wrote. It enables you to be an expert in writing content that resonates with people, and the rest AI can handle.” Looking back, Robinson credits FAMU with giving him more than technical skills and emboldening him with confidence. “One of the most important things I got from college was how to conduct myself in certain spaces,” he said to OffTheYard. “Your HBCU education is not second rate. I’ve had folks from Harvard work for me, period.” His advice to the next generation of HBCU students eyeing tech careers is clear: trust your training, articulate your value, and outwork the competition. “When you dare to outwork everybody else, there’s no doubt in my mind that smart people will see your grind,” Robinson said. “And you won’t have any problems moving up the corporate.
Markus Robinson
HBCU AFFILIATION: FLORIDA AGRICULTURAL & MECHANICAL UNIVERSITY
PRESIDENT OF PRODUCT & TECH, iONE DIGITAL
2025 HONOREES
Jonathan White
HBCU AFFILIATION: HOWARD UNIVERSITY
DIRECTOR OF PARTNERSHIPS FOR TECHSGIVING / FOUNDER OF WHY NOT NOW LLC
From Chicago to Silicon Success: Jonathan White on His Journey in Digital Equity & AI
Off The Yard sat down with Gen(AI)us List honoree Jonathan White to discuss his path from Chicago to tech leadership, the lessons learned at Morgan State University, and his ongoing mission to make digital equity and AI more accessible to the next generation.
Off The Yard: How did your journey into tech begin?
Jonathan White: The first time I really got a chance to see HBCUs, I was part of a program called Upward Bound. My director went to Howard University, so she made sure we visited. I didn’t know much about HBCUs at the time, but that tour—Howard and Morgan—completely opened my eyes.
That trip eventually led me, along with 25 other students from Chicago, to Morgan State University through a scholarship program led by Emanuel Jackson.
Off The Yard: What did Morgan State teach you that still influences your career today?
White: Morgan taught me how to be a man. There are no give-outs there. If you receive a “no,” it’s your job to find another way for them to say “yes.” That mindset shaped everything I’ve done since—from sales and marketing to leadership in tech.
Off The Yard: You started out interested in entertainment. What made you pivot to technology?
White: I did! I was heavily involved in HBCU tours and events. But one of my professors told us, “Tech is what’s going to shift you guys in the next 10 to 20 years.” I took that seriously. After graduation, I joined Computer Sciences Corporation—now DXC Technology—as part of a recent grad program and went into tech sales.
I already knew how to connect with people, and every industry needs someone to build relationships and close deals. That’s where I found my lane.
Off The Yard: You later helped lead HP’s Path to Digital Equity program at Blavity. What impact did that have?
White: That initiative was designed to give underserved communities and universities access to tech careers. We highlighted Black professionals in engineering, project management, and other roles within the HP ecosystem. Sometimes, you just need to see someone doing it to believe it’s possible.
We also provided sessions, mentorship, and real career pipelines. Because if your internal organization doesn’t reflect the customers you serve, you’re living within your ceiling. That program helped bring HBCU graduates into the tech space and expand opportunities for young Black professionals.
Off The Yard: You’ve talked about AI being the next big shift. How do you see its role in the future?
White: AI is the future—and the future is happening right now. Not learning AI today is like ignoring the internet in its early days.
If you’re not using AI in your day-to-day life, you’re being reactive instead of proactive. AI will create entirely new roles. If you start aligning yourself now, you’ll be positioned to thrive when those opportunities grow.
Off The Yard: Have you faced challenges navigating the tech industry as a Black professional?
White: Absolutely. I’ve often been the only Black guy in the room. But I look at that as an opportunity to lead and mentor. Once you reach a certain level, you have to bring the next person in and help clean them up for their own success. That’s part of my responsibility.
Off The Yard: What does being named to the Gen(AI)us List mean to you?
White: It’s an honor, but it’s also a reminder that my work isn’t done. I want as many people on this train as possible. I want someone to look at me and say, “I can see myself being Jonathan, and I want to get on that list too.”
My journey—from Chicago to Morgan State to the forefront of AI—is all about opening doors and expanding opportunities. This isn’t just my story; it’s a roadmap for the next generation of Black tech leaders.
2025 HONOREES
Jonee Love is a powerhouse in executive recruitment, bringing more than a decade of
experience connecting top-tier talent with world-class organizations.
As a Senior Executive Recruiter at Compass Group USA—the world’s largest food service and hospitality company—she leads the charge in securing senior-level and C-suite talent. Her work fuels Compass Group’s growth and ensures the company continues to set the standard for operational excellence across industries. Before joining Compass Group, Jonee made her mark as a Director at Dinte Global Executive Search, where she was a pivotal member of the leadership team. She successfully guided executive searches in Technology, IT startups, Aerospace & Defense, and Government Solutions, partnering with clients that ranged from Fortune 500 giants to private equity-backed disruptors.
Her career journey also includes shaping talent strategies at Fannie Mae, one of the nation’s leading sources of mortgage financing, where she executed enterprise-wide senior recruitment. Earlier, at Heidrick & Struggles, she honed her skills in the Global Technology & Services Practice, delivering high-impact executive searches in fast- paced, global markets.Jone
e’s career foundation was built on seven years of spearheading campus recruitment for major IT organizations—cultivating early talent pipelines and amplifying employer brands at some of the nation’s top universities. A proud Hampton University alumna, Jonee holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. Her track record reflects not only her ability to identify and place transformational leaders but also her passion for shaping the future of executive leadership.
Jonee Love
HBCU AFFILIATION: HAMPTON UNIVERSITY
SENIOR EXECUTIVE RECRUITER AT COMPASS GROUP USA
2025 HONOREES
Joey Taylor, Founder & CEO, Mycelium
HBCU Affiliation: Oakwood University, Class of 2024
Joey Taylor is an innovator combining neuroscience, AI, and game design. A 2024 graduate of Oakwood University, he is the creator of Mycelium, a brain‑computer interface prototype that transforms neural signals into game‑controller inputs. Using nodes and magnets to detect electromagnetic brain activity, his work bridges hardware, software, and human cognition to open new pathways for how we interact with technology.
Taylor’s journey began with limited access to technology in Costa Rica, where he built his first computer out of salvaged parts. Early roles as a data engineer, work in research labs, and experience interning at NASA at 18 sharpened his technical skills and ambition. In 2025, Mycelium won first place and a $15,000 prize at the HBCU Founders Initiative’s Better Futures Competition.
Beyond invention, Taylor is committed to representation and mentorship, frequently visiting schools in Alabama and Georgia to show students what is possible when someone who looks like them achieves in tech.
Impact Statement: “I just want to create technology that helps people, that connects us, that changes how we see the world.” — Joey Taylor, Yahoo! Tech, 2024
Joey Taylor
HBCU AFFILIATION: CLASS OF 2024 OAKWOOD UNIVERSITY
FOUNDER & CEO, MYCELIUM
2025 HONOREES
Dr. Aprille Ericsson, Aerospace Engineer & Former NASA Scientist HBCU Affiliation: Howard University
Dr. Aprille Ericsson is a trailblazer in aerospace engineering and technology leadership. A proud Howard University alumna, she has broken barriers as the first African American woman to receive a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Howard, and later served as NASA’s Assistant Secretary of Defense for Science and Technology. Throughout her career, Ericsson has led cutting-edge projects in space science, satellite technology, and systems engineering, shaping the way innovation and research are applied to space exploration and defense.
Her journey reflects the power of mentorship and representation in STEM. Beyond her technical achievements, Ericsson actively advocates for young women and underrepresented minorities in science and engineering, inspiring the next generation of innovators to pursue ambitious careers in aerospace and AI-related technologies.
Impact Statement: ““My mom was always saying, 'You can do it, girl!'"
My mom has always been my #1 cheerleader. During my childhood, many girls were marginalized or forced into stereotypical roles and being told, ‘girls don’t do that.’
In contrast, my mom always encouraged me, whether it was riding a bike, playing basketball, learning karate, doing science fair projects, or excelling at math. To this day, I absolutely still believe her empowering words, ‘You can do it, girl!’ and I remind my daughter daily that she can do whatever she sets her mind to!”—-Dr. Aprille Ericsson, STEM Greenhouse 2023
Dr. Aprille Ericsson
HBCU AFFILIATION: HOWARD UNIVERSITY
Aerospace Engineer & Former NASA Scientist
2025 HONOREES
Leon Burns III, President & CEO, Open Technology Group HBCU Affiliation: Hampton University
Leon Burns is a visionary leader at the forefront of technology and diversity in the federal contracting space. As President and CEO of Open Technology Group (OTG), Burns has transformed the company into a trailblazer in delivering innovative IT solutions to federal clients. His leadership is marked by a deep commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB), ensuring that underrepresented communities have access to opportunities in tech.
A proud Hampton University alumnus, Burns earned his Bachelor of Science in Management before pursuing an MBA at Long Island University. His career trajectory—from ground operations to help desk, management, and quality assurance—has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of the tech industry. Under his guidance, OTG has expanded its reach and continues to deliver cutting-edge solutions to some of the most critical governmental projects in the region.
Beyond his professional achievements, Burns is dedicated to giving back to his alma mater. In August 2025, he launched a $100,000 scholarship initiative to support Hampton University students pursuing careers in technology, analytics, and innovation pathways. This commitment underscores his belief in the power of education and mentorship to drive systemic change.
Impact Statement: "I made it a point after I found my footing in my career to work hard enough to open up doors for people that came behind me, especially the ones that looked like me, so that we could advance in tech.” —- Leon Burns III, AfroTech 2025
Leon Burns III
HBCU AFFILIATION: HOWARD UNIVERSITY
Aerospace Engineer & Former NASA Scientist
2025 HONOREES
Rodney Williams, Co-Founder & President, SoLo Funds HBCU Affiliation: Howard University
Rodney Williams is a serial innovator at the intersection of fintech, audio technology, and community empowerment. A proud graduate of Howard University, he is the Co-Founder and President of SoLo Funds, the largest community finance platform in the U.S., where over 2 million users have funded more than 1.5 million loans. Under his leadership, SoLo became the nation’s only Black-led Certified B Corp fintech, reimagining how technology can democratize access to capital.
Before SoLo, Williams founded LISNR, a high-frequency, data-over-audio technology that enables secure, contactless communication between devices. The company has powered over 100 million connections and earned recognition from CNBC’s Disruptor 50 and Ad Age’s 40 Under 40. His work embodies HBCU-bred innovation, merging technical precision, cultural insight, and a commitment to financial equity.
Impact Statement: “Just go for it, take risks. Those are the types of people that tend to change the world — the type of people that think they can.” — Rodney Williams, AfroTech 2019
Rodney Williams
HBCU AFFILIATION: HAMPTON UNIVERSITY
Co-Founder & President, SoLo Funds
2025 HONOREES
Shawn Wilkinson, Founder & CEO, Prodia HBCU Affiliation: Morehouse College
Shawn Wilkinson is a serial entrepreneur, technology innovator and founder of the world’s largest decentralized cloud storage company, Storj. A true tech genAIus, he’s now the founder and CEO of Prodia, the world’s fastest API platform for AI-powered image generation and editing. A proud graduate of Morehouse College, Wilkinson has leveraged his computer science expertise to develop tools that empower creators, businesses, and developers to seamlessly integrate AI-driven imaging into digital products.
Under Wilkinson’s leadership, Prodia raised $15 million in seed funding to expand its scalable, affordable AI inference solutions, democratizing access to high-performance AI for creative and commercial users. The company has rapidly become a leading solution in AI image processing, supporting clients around the globe with a distributed network of GPUs that make AI-powered tools faster and more cost-effective.
Impact Statement: "Don’t burn yourself out. We have an open community here. Be transparent. I have seen a lot of startups who protect their ideas as something sacred, but 99 percent of them fail. Encourage feedback and get good advice.”—Shawn Wilkinson, Tech Square Labs 2017
Shawn Wilkinson
HBCU AFFILIATION: MOREHOUSE COLLEGE
Founder & CEO, Prodia
2025 HONOREES
Derick Pearson is a visionary social entrepreneur dedicated to transforming Black communities through innovation, access, and opportunity.
A proud Morehouse College graduate, he serves as the Founder, President, and CFO of Center For Black Innovation, formerly Code Fever Miami, an organization that teaches minority youth how to code, create technologies, and become entrepreneurs. Co-founded with his wife, Felecia Hatcher, it’s reshaping Black communities into thriving, value-producing innovation spaces. Under Pearson’s leadership, CFBI has become a cornerstone of South Florida’s innovation ecosystem. Through initiatives like BlackTech Meetups, BlackTech Office Hours, and the nationally recognized Black Tech Week, the organization connects emerging founders with investors, mentors, and resources to drive sustainable economic growth.
Pearson also co-founded A Space Called Tribe, a co-working and innovation space designed to foster collaboration among Black entrepreneurs. His pioneering work has been recognized by NBC, The Huffington Post, and The Source, and he has been honored as a White House Champion of Change, BMe Fellow, and SXSW Advisor.
Impact Statement: “If you want to have a more resilient, more ruthless and responsive civilization in the United States, you need to make sure that all parties that make up the body of American citizens, or active participants, are looked after. They’re not disenfranchised, they’re not marginalized, they’re not quieted, they’re not oppressed, and they’re active.”—Derick Pearson, Miami Herald 2023
Derick Pearson
HBCU AFFILIATION: MOREHOUSE COLLEGE
Founder, President & CFO, Center For Black Innovation
2025 HONOREES
Taylor Davis is a tech entrepreneur and innovator in AI-powered lifestyle applications.
A proud Howard University graduate, she is the founder of Troodie, an AI-driven app that helps users discover and plan food and travel experiences tailored to their preferences. By leveraging machine learning and personalization algorithms, Troodie enhances how people explore new destinations and culinary experiences, bridging technology with everyday lifestyle needs.
Davis’s work reflects a commitment to making AI tools accessible, user-friendly, and culturally relevant. Troodie’s platform not only simplifies travel and dining decisions but also provides opportunities for local businesses and communities to gain visibility in a highly personalized digital environment. Her approach exemplifies how HBCU-trained talent is shaping the future of AI applications that touch daily life.
Impact Statement: "One of my favorite features is how users can join Communities and share and curate recommendations together. It truly brings the joy of connection through food and travel into one place." — Taylor Davis, BlackBusiness.com, 2025
Taylor Davis
HBCU AFFILIATION: HOWARD UNIVERSITY
Founder, Troodie
2025 HONOREES
Taylor Davis is a tech entrepreneur and innovator in AI-powered lifestyle applications.
A proud Howard University graduate, she is the founder of Troodie, an AI-driven app that helps users discover and plan food and travel experiences tailored to their preferences. By leveraging machine learning and personalization algorithms, Troodie enhances how people explore new destinations and culinary experiences, bridging technology with everyday lifestyle needs.
Davis’s work reflects a commitment to making AI tools accessible, user-friendly, and culturally relevant. Troodie’s platform not only simplifies travel and dining decisions but also provides opportunities for local businesses and communities to gain visibility in a highly personalized digital environment. Her approach exemplifies how HBCU-trained talent is shaping the future of AI applications that touch daily life.
Impact Statement: "One of my favorite features is how users can join Communities and share and curate recommendations together. It truly brings the joy of connection through food and travel into one place." — Taylor Davis, BlackBusiness.com, 2025
Peter Iwuh
HBCU AFFILIATION: MORGAN STATE UNIVERSITY
Founder & CEO, Tykoon AI
2025 HONOREES
Eno Oduok is a forward-thinking technologist and entrepreneur working at the intersection of AI, energy, and sustainability.
While completing her MBA at Prairie View A&M, she founded el powr, described as a “Fitbit for commercial buildings.” The AI-powered energy management platform helps commercial buildings and school systems optimize energy use, reduce costs, and lower carbon emissions.. Her startup earned third place in the HBCU Founders Initiative’s 2025 Better Futures Competition. Oduok and her el powr team is now focused on securing clients and partners, particularly in real estate, education, and sustainability. Recently accepted into Pharrell Williams’ So Ambitious Pre-Accelerator Program, el powr continues to scale its impact and refine its business model for long-term growth.
Oduok credits her time at Techstars Alabama, where she served as an operations associate, with shaping the foundation for el powr. There, she gained insight into the energy and climate challenges facing modern communities and learned from a network of investors, corporate partners like Alabama Power, and local innovators.
Impact Statement: “I want people — especially young people, especially people that come from similar communities that I come from, whether they are a woman, they’re black — to be like ‘If she could do that, imagine what I could do.’ That means everything to me.” —Eno Oduok, AfroTech 2025
Dr. Isi Ero-Johnson Dean, School of Science, Hampton University,
HBCU Affiliation: Jackson State University (B.S., M.S.)
Eno Oduok
HBCU AFFILIATION: Prairie View A&M University,
Class of 2025
Founder & CEO, el powr
2025 HONOREES
HBCU Affiliation: Dr. Isi Ero-Johnson, a Jackson State University alumna, is the Dean of Hampton University’s School of Science and a trailblazer in AI and technology in higher education.
Appointed to Virginia’s newly established Artificial Intelligence Task Force, she advises policymakers on ethical AI implementation, educational innovation, and strategic technology adoption across the Commonwealth. Her research spans biological sciences and science education, with publications in leading journals such as Nature Chemical Biology and Journal of Research in Science Education.
At Hampton, Dr. Ero-Johnson is pioneering the integration of AI into classrooms and research programs, from analyzing complex scientific data to developing personalized learning tools for students. Through her leadership in Hampton’s “Elevating Hampton Excellence” initiative, she drives innovation, academic rigor, and community impact. By bridging HBCU excellence with cutting-edge AI research and ethical technology deployment, Dr. Ero-Johnson is empowering the next generation of STEM leaders to innovate responsibly and boldly.
Impact Statement: As a member of the Governor’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) Taskforce, I’m honored to be able to provide insights into the future and current roles of AI in higher education,” Ero-Johnson said. “Hampton University has long discussed technology, its transformation, and its use within the classroom to include forms of generative AI, such as ChatGPT and more. I’ll be bringing aspects of these types of discussions and more with our faculty into the advice that we bring to policymakers as they continue to elevate Virginia in the AI space.” Hampton University Press Release, 2025
Dr. Isi Ero-Johnson
HBCU AFFILIATION: JACKSON STATE UNIVERSITY (B.S., M.S.)
Founder, Troodie
2025 HONOREES
Skánia Florestal’s journey is rooted in resilience, community, and a deep belief in the transformative power of HBCUs.
After choosing Virginia State University (Class of 2008), she quickly found her purpose in service and connection, experiences that continue to shape her career. As a proud Trojan, she has translated her HBCU experience into a mission-driven career at the intersection of technology, culture, and community building.
Today, Skánia is the Founder & CEO of HBCUMADE, the first social network built exclusively for HBCU alumni and students. Under her leadership, HBCUMADE recently launched the Homecoming Concierge, a groundbreaking digital hub centralizing the $2.5 billion HBCU Homecoming economy. With alumni travel up 35% in recent years, the Concierge solves a long-standing infrastructure gap by bringing together discounted hotel stays, curated event listings, and a cultural calendar covering 100+ HBCUs. Backed by Techstars and leading investors, the platform has already secured 25 hotel partnerships, grown to more than 14,000 members, and is redefining how Black professionals experience and sustain their traditions.For
Skánia, this work is about more than innovation — it’s about building the digital backbone for HBCU culture itself, ensuring that the connections and celebrations born on campus continue for generations to come.HBCU
AffiliationVirg
inia State University — Class of 2008Pull
-Quote / Highlight Statement“We’
re not just building a booking platform — we’re creating the digital backbone forHBCU
culture itself.” — Skánia Florestal
Skánia Florestal
HBCU AFFILIATION: VIRGINIA STATE UNIVERSITY - CLASS OF 2008
Founder & CEO of HBCUMADE
2025 HONOREES
Jasmine Crowe-Houston is a visionary social entrepreneur merging technology, sustainability, and social justice. A proud 2005 graduate of North Carolina Central University, she is the founder and CEO of Goodr, a groundbreaking food-waste management company that uses blockchain, AI, and data analytics to combat hunger and create a more efficient, equitable food ecosystem.
Founded in 2017, Goodr has diverted over 40 million pounds of food from landfills, providing tens of millions of meals to communities in need while reducing harmful greenhouse gas emissions. The company partners with major corporations, municipalities, and airports, including Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the NBA, and Amazon, to track surplus inventory and route it to shelters, schools, and nonprofits using Goodr's innovative logistics and waste-tracking platform. Through Goodr, Jasmine Crowe-Houston continues to champion diversity in AI and technology, proving how data-driven solutions can disrupt hunger and drive social equity in communities nationwide.
Impact Statement: “Start by measuring the problem you want to solve. You cannot manage what you do not measure. Once you see the data, it will point you toward practical levers you can pull, the partners you need, and the policy or logistics gaps you can close. And keep your solutions simple and repeatable so others can adopt them at scale.” —Jasmine Crowe-Houston, StratLabs 2025
Jasmine Crowe-Houston
HBCU AFFILIATION: North Carolina Central University, Class of 2005
Founder & CEO, Goodr