On Thursday evening, August 28, the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE) was alive with energy as we celebrated the graduation of our combined Supply Chain Accelerator (SCA) and Product Development Pathways (PDP) programs. Held in the RICE Symposium, the night reflected the spirit of excellence, innovation, and community that defines our work.
The event space itself told the story. Designed and brought to life by our very own Tamiea Anderson, Program & Project Manager. The atmosphere set the tone for a celebration of hard work, resilience, and vision.
The evening opened with warmth and energy under the direction of Ashley Scott, Internal Communications Manager at RICE, who served as Mistress of Ceremonies. Her engaging presence guided guests through the program, creating space for both reflection and applause as we honored each graduate.
Leading With Expertise
This year’s graduates came through two of RICE’s extension learning pathways:
- Supply Chain Accelerator (SCA), facilitated by Glenda Stinson, CEO of CORE Business Development, which equips entrepreneurs to strengthen operations, streamline logistics, and expand capacity.
- Product Development Pathways (PDP), facilitated by Shakiri Murrain, Director of Innovation Solutions at RICE, which helps founders sharpen ideas, refine products, and position themselves for market success.
Together, these programs provided entrepreneurs with the skills, mentorship, and resources needed to compete in today’s fast-moving economy.
Inspiration for the Journey Ahead
The highlight of the evening came from Jay Bailey, President and CEO of RICE, who delivered a keynote that reminded graduates of the bigger picture. He emphasized that professional development is not a finish line but the start of an evolving journey where each entrepreneur will continue to grow, pivot, and build alongside a supportive community. “This graduation,” Bailey shared, “is not the end. It is a launchpad.”
Celebrating Our Graduates
Each graduate proudly crossed the stage to receive their official certification and a $2,500 grant award to invest directly into their business growth. Smiles lit up the room as they posed with their oversized checks, a tangible symbol of their dedication and RICE’s commitment to fueling their success.
We also celebrate Parlay Savory Saloon, led by Latrice Coleman, who took on the challenge of completing both programs simultaneously and earned the distinction of a double certification.
2025 Supply Chain Accelerator Graduates
- The Appliance Gals – Sharonda Stewart
- Takes A Village Transportation – Amia Guild
- Get Real Time Feedback – Barry Love
- Parlay Savory Saloon – Latrice Coleman
- Russell’s Transport, LLC – Taricka Russell
- TCB Drones – Steffanie Rivers
- Mocha Travel – Katrina Morrison
- Elephant in the Room – Keionna Baker
- Todo Robotics – Marianela Nanninga
- Happy Clean – Brittany Greene
- The Pooche Parlor Mobile – Sonya Williams
- TMI Design and Consulting – Tamara Irving
- Vertical Active Wear – Tia Robinson
- The Laundry Basket LLC – H. Tucker
2025 Product Development Pathways Graduates
- Adult Game Nights – Thomas Gray
- Versa Striker Boxing – Jeremy Hodges
- AForEffort, LLC – Kiara McClendon
- Spectrum Glassware LLC – Ariel Jordan
- Emmerse – Val Barnett
- Just for Teens – Brian Reynolds
- The Beauty Garden LLC – Jasmine Everett
- CuppaBrew LLC – Travis Pinnock
- Parlay Savory Saloon LLC – Latrice Coleman
- Highlight Recruiting LLC – John Mayo
- Cross Court Culture, LLC – Lashekia Barker
- teesbydds – Donica Saunders
- Charla Rushelle – Charla Mitchell
- Hair Drip Wear – Keta Leatherwood
- Pouch and Prose – Kim Houston
A Moment to Affirm the Future
The evening concluded with a powerful affirmation led by Ashley Scott:
“My future is limitless, and my business is here to stay.”
That declaration echoed through the Symposium as graduates, their families, and the RICE community stood together in celebration of what has been accomplished and in anticipation of what is still to come.
At RICE, we know this is only the beginning. These graduates represent the next wave of leaders, builders, and innovators shaping Atlanta’s business landscape and beyond.
Congratulations to our 2025 SCA and PDP cohorts. Your future truly is limitless.
