ATLANTA, March 28,
2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Russell Innovation
Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE), the largest center in the
world dedicated to growing, scaling, and developing Black
entrepreneurs proudly announces the strategic enhancement of its
leadership team with two distinguished professionals, Shawn M. Graham, CPA, as Executive Vice
President and Chief Administrative Officer along with Monica Delores Hooks, MBA, EDP, as Chief
Experience Officer. Their collective expertise and proven track
records are poised to propel RICE and its mission of fostering
entrepreneurial excellence further.
Monica Delores Hooks:
Transforming Entrepreneurship with Global Insight
Monica Delores Hooks brings an
impressive background marked by transformative leadership in the
entrepreneurial ecosystem, most notably with the Women's
Entrepreneurship Initiative (WEI). Her efforts have generated
significant capital and job creation, underscoring her ability to
impact the global business landscape. With deep Atlanta roots and extensive international
experience, Monica Delores is
uniquely positioned to elevate RICE's community with unparalleled
resources and opportunities.
"Atlanta instills a profound
sense of pride and responsibility," says Monica Delores. "At RICE, we're building a
community that provides founders with the comprehensive support I
once only dreamed of. It's an honor to contribute to the narrative
of Black excellence and innovation in the city that shaped me."
Shawn M. Graham: Amplifying
Operational Excellence
Shawn M. Graham comes to RICE
with a wealth of experience in finance, strategy, and community
engagement. Her background illustrates a deep commitment to growth
and inclusivity, with previous roles that include significant
achievements at the National Black MBA Association, Inc. (NBMBAA).
Shawn's expertise will enhance RICE's operational and financial
frameworks, ensuring a robust foundation for entrepreneurs.
"I'm thrilled to lend my skills to RICE's empowering mission,"
Shawn expresses. "Our goal is to provide a solid platform for Black
entrepreneurs to excel, reshaping the business landscape with
innovative and sustainable strategies."
A Vision for the Future
James "Jay" Bailey, President and CEO of RICE, highlights the
strategic significance of these appointments. "Monica Delores and Shawn are key to elevating
what we do best; supporting and empowering entrepreneurs. Their
arrival marks a milestone in our journey to redefine
entrepreneurship through innovation and inclusivity."
As RICE embarks on this new chapter, Monica Delores Hooks and Shawn M. Graham are set to leave an indelible
mark on the entrepreneurial landscape. Their leadership reaffirms
RICE's commitment to diversity, empowerment, and the success of
every entrepreneur in the community.About Russell Innovation
Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE)
The Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE) is
Atlanta's home for Black
entrepreneurs. Positioned as a business generator, RICE serves as
an economic mobility engine for the community: driving
entrepreneurs and small business owners to innovate, grow, create
jobs and build wealth. Inspired by the legacy of Herman J. Russell, one of the most successful
Black entrepreneurs and civic leaders in Atlanta, RICE remains dedicated to its mission
to Build. Black. Business. and stands as the largest center in the
world dedicated to growing, scaling, and developing Black
Entrepreneurs. For more information visit
www.RussellCenter.org, download the RICE Report Volume 1,
and follow @RICEAtlanta on Instagram and
Twitter and @RussellCenterAtlanta on
Facebook.
For media inquiries and more information, please contact:
Shalon Brown
Pr@russellcenter.org
View original content to download
multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/rice-announces-strategic-leadership-additions-cementing-its-role-as-the-nations-largest-entrepreneurial-hub-302102797.html
SOURCE Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs