March is Women’s History Month, and at the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE), we are proud to celebrate under the theme: Women Who Mean Business: Celebrating HERstory. Throughout history, women have been at the forefront of innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic empowerment—often without the recognition they deserve. From groundbreaking inventions that revolutionized industries to pioneering businesses that created new opportunities, these women have laid the foundation for future generations of entrepreneurs and leaders.
This month, we will spotlight the dynamic women whose leadership, innovation, and dedication have helped shape RICE as a hub for economic empowerment and business growth.
Now, we turn our focus to the powerhouse women leading RICE’s signature programming. These women are driving innovation, fostering entrepreneurship, and creating pathways for Black business owners to succeed. Their vision, passion, and expertise ensure that our stakeholders receive world-class support, mentorship, and resources.
Women Leading Transformative Programs at RICE
Discover Monica Delores Hooks – The Champion for Entrepreneurship Crafting the RICE Experience
As RICE’s Chief Experience Officer, Monica Delores Hooks is dedicated to shaping the overall journey of RICE Stakeholders, ensuring that they receive an unparalleled level of support, resources, and opportunities. With a strong commitment to fostering economic empowerment, Monica plays a critical role in designing and refining programs that enhance stakeholder engagement, provide access to capital, and create strategic pathways for business success. Her leadership ensures that Black entrepreneurs at RICE not only build sustainable businesses but thrive within an ecosystem that prioritizes their growth and innovation.
Get to Know Jasmine Tiara – The Architect Behind RICE’s Transformative Programming
At the helm of RICE’s programming operations is Jasmine Tiara, our Director of Programming and Project Management. Jasmine, Founder of The Black Wallet, plays a pivotal role in organizing the faculty and overseeing the tactical operations of all our programs, including our most popular extension initiatives like the Retail Readiness Academy TM and the Supply Chain Accelerator. Her leadership ensures that RICE’s programming is seamless, efficient, and impactful, enhancing the experience for all RICE Stakeholders. Utilizing her project management skills, Jasmine paves the way for our faculty and Entrepreneurs-in-Residence (EIRs) to deliver game-changing programs that support Black entrepreneurs on their journey to success.
Meet Terri-Nichelle Bradley – The Powerhouse Behind our Retail Readiness Academy (RRA)
Breaking into retail can be daunting, but Terri-Nichelle Bradley, CEO of Brown Toy Box, is making it accessible and achievable for Black entrepreneurs through the Retail Readiness Academy TM. This program provides entrepreneurs with the tools, strategies, and insights needed to successfully launch and scale their products in retail spaces. Terri-Nichelle’s expertise and mentorship empower business owners to navigate buyer negotiations, packaging requirements, and marketing strategies.
Introducing Glenda Stinson – The Mastermind Leading our Supply Chain Accelerator (SCA)
RICE’s Supply Chain Accelerator is designed to help Black entrepreneurs scale their businesses by navigating supply chain opportunities and corporate partnerships. Under the leadership of Glenda Stinson, President & CEO of S.E.A.T. Business Development Group, this program equips participants with the knowledge and networks necessary to access high-value contracts and streamline their operations. Glenda’s leadership over the past 20 years providing corporations with programs to ensure supplier diversity ensures that Black-owned businesses are positioned to thrive in the competitive supply chain landscape.
RICE Stakeholder Maïré Bavarday-Rosa is Leveling Up E-Commerce for RICE’s Product Development Pathways (PDP) Program
For entrepreneurs bringing new products to market, the Product Development Pathways (PDP) program at RICE is a game-changer. Maïré Bavarday-Rosa, CEO of Ecom Spaces, supports the e-commerce portion of our PDP program guiding business owners through the product development lifecycle, from ideation to commercialization with a focus on direct-to-consumer distribution. With a track record of helping small brands become multimillion-dollar successes, Maïré’s strategic insights and industry knowledge have helped countless entrepreneurs refine their products, secure manufacturing partnerships, and launch successfully.
Women Leading Big IDEAS Stages: The Incomparable Doll Avant & Change-Agent Jasmine Crowe
Innovation and impact come to life in RICE’s Big IDEAS program. Within the learning continuum, our INSPIRE & DEVELOP Stages are led by visionary entrepreneurs Doll Avant and Jasmine Crowe respectively. As trailblazers in tech and social impact, they help entrepreneurs refine their big ideas into scalable, fundable ventures. Their work with the Big IDEAS program has resulted in groundbreaking businesses that tackle pressing social and economic challenges while creating sustainable solutions.
Saturday School Facilitators Arnesha Bobo, Lauren Levins & Mevonnie Biggins are Raising the Bar
Education is key to entrepreneurial success, and RICE’s Saturday School program is designed to provide business owners with the foundational knowledge they need to scale. Arnesha Bobo, Lauren Levins, and Mevonnie Biggins, support this initiative by offering intensive training, workshops, and mentorship. Each woman’s expertise ensures that entrepreneurs have access to critical information and insights that foster business growth and financial sustainability. RICE’s Saturday School is free and open to entrepreneurs throughout Atlanta to hone their professional skills on select Saturdays each month.
Honoring Women in Business & Building Connections
These phenomenal women are not only leading and facilitating RICE’s innovative programs but also serving as role models and mentors for aspiring entrepreneurs. Their work underscores RICE’s commitment to fostering an ecosystem where Black entrepreneurs, especially women, can thrive.
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, we also invite you to join us for our 3rd Annual Women Who Mean Business Bruncheon—a gathering that honors the achievements of Black women in business while providing valuable networking and mentorship opportunities.
Stay connected throughout March as we continue to uplift and highlight the incredible women shaping RICE’s community and contributing to a long-lasting legacy building entrepreneurs. Follow our digital campaign, watch our video features, and engage with us in celebrating Women Who Mean Business!
