Meet the Team
The Minneapolis planning committee is a dedicated group of Drake University alumni committed to creating a memorable and meaningful experience in the City of Lakes.
With a shared passion for reconnecting and celebrating the legacy of the Black Student Organization, the team brings together diverse talents in event planning, communications, and hospitality to ensure every detail is thoughtfully managed. Together, we’re excited to make this reunion an experience you will not forget.
James Holmes, Jr. '83
Chairman
After Drake, I spent 40 years in finance, corporate investing, & the automotive industry. Now, I am an entrepreneur working to make the world more financially inclusive. I am the author of over a dozen books on Amazon for all ages.
Gwen Witherspoon '85
Vice Chair
I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design at Drake. I leveraged that into a 40-year career in marketing communications, entrepreneurship, ministry, coaching, and an MBA. Now, I am a published poet, author, and branding agency owner.
L'Tanga Johnson '90
Secretary
I hold a B.S. in Management & Marketing from Drake and work as an Information Security Officer in the automotive industry. As a certified coach, I empower youth and develop leaders. I am passionate about genealogy, music, & community growth.
Ken Palmer '81
Treasurer
After Drake, I had a 39-year career in accounting and finance. Today, I am privileged to serve as the Chairman of the Board of Directors at the Martin Luther King, Sr. Community Resources Collaborative promoting self-sufficiency.
Hosea Givan '81
Chairman Emeritus
I received a BA from Drake and several other advanced degrees. However, my life's work has been in the community as the founder of the National Give Back to Kids Campaign. I am an author focused on impacting millions for generations.
Art Johnson '88
Sponsorship
I earned a BS in Marketing at Drake and went on to excel in industries like medical devices and telecommunications. As an author and CEO of Infinity Systems, I help leaders resolve employee misalignment and DEI challenges.
Channon Lemon
Hotel Liaison
I have over 20 years leading innovation, organizational change, and economic development. With an MBA from the University of Minnesota and a BBA from Howard University, I am advancing energy innovation.
Renee Hardman '83, '89
Sponsorship
I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and MBA from Drake before building a career in executive HR leadership. Now Principal Owner of Hardman Consulting, and I serve as Councilwoman-At-Large in West Des Moines, Iowa.
Melissa Harvey
Registration
I have a BSBA in Accounting from Drake and an MBA in International Marketing Strategy from SMU. As a former CPA, I combine analytical precision with creative vision to align Marketing and Sales, drive growth, and deliver measurable results.
Yolanda Radford-Sartin '90
Logistics
I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, am the owner of Piercing the Heart, the author of "Persevere and Pursue" on Amazon, a retired Nurse Educator, & Associate Pastor and Director of Ministry Operations at World Outreach Center in Milwaukee, WI.
Laura Martin
Logistics
My husband of 34 years is Drake Alum, Ken Martin, and we share a passion for marriage ministry and missions. My work is in communications and community advocacy. I hold degrees in management and public administration.
Dana "D.C." Carter, Sr '83
Hospitality
I earned a BA in Chemistry Premed at Drake, a Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Iowa, and a Master of Divinity from Virginia Union University. In my spare time, I officiate able body and adaptive tennis, basketball, and rugby at all levels.
Juana Barnes '85
Hospitality
I earned my BS in Human Resources Management, and I had the honor of working with and retiring from the Dept of Veterans Affairs. Born in Cuba, raised in Chicago, I now reside in CA where I am committed to serving my community.
Demetrius Henderson '86
Catering
I earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Drake and two Masters–an M.Ed. from CSU and MBA from Ashland University. My 37-year career in behavioral health has led to co-ownership in multiple behavioral healthcare agencies.
Vincent Rhett Butler '77
Publications
I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism at Drake, and I spent over than 30 years in journalism–22 of them at the Milwaukee Journal. I consider myself retired, but I do work part-time at Outpost Natural Foods in Milwaukee.
Join us in Minneapolis for the Drake BSO Reunion 2025. Inspired by Terry Wrice after the profound loss of Drake classmate Terry Day, our tradition was born in 2014. Each year, we gather to honor our shared Drake University and Black Student Organization experience, create new memories, and forge new friendships.
Gallery
2014 Chicago, Illinois
2015 Atlanta, Georgia
2016 Washington, D.C.
2017 Orlando, Florida
2018 San Francisco, California
2019 St. Louis, Missouri
2022 Birmingham, Alabama
2023 Providence, Rhode Island
2024 New York, New York
© Drake BSO Reunion | Minneapolis Committee. All rights reserved. Developed by Adam Red.