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Event graphic with the Black Founders exhibit logo, words in white font reading AmRev Presents A Black Founders Legacy of Entrepreneurship, and a portrait of James Forten.

Inspired by the historical legacies of Black entrepreneurship presented in the special exhibition Black Founders: The Forten Family of Philadelphia, the Museum presents a special evening event and panel discussion hosted by Karla Trotman, CEO and owner of Electro Soft, Inc., who serves on the Museum’s Board of Directors and Black Founders Exhibition Committee. With opening remarks by Regina A. Hairston, President & CEO of the African-American Chamber of Commerce of PA, NJ, & DE, and Museum Curator of Exhibitions Matthew Skic, Trotman will facilitate a discussion with panelists Steven Scott Bradley, Jason M. Coles, Nia Eubanks-Dixon, Chef Kurt Evans, and Derek S. Green, who will explore how James Forten’s successful enterprises, philanthropic mission, and influential networks connect with Black founders of Philadelphia businesses today.

Event Schedule
5:15-6 p.m. - Black Founders access
6-7:30 p.m. - Panel Discussion
7:30-8:30 p.m. - Reception & Black Founders access
Please note that timing is approximate.

Panelists & Remarks

Headshot of Regina Hairston who has shoulder length brown hair and is wearing a light blue gray shirt.

Regina A. Hairston (opening remarks)
President & CEO, African-American Chamber of Commerce of PA, NJ, & DE

Image 091523 Karla Trotman Headshot

Karla Trotman (moderator)
CEO & Owner of Electro Soft, Inc.

Portrait of Steven Scott Bradley in a dark suit with glasses.

Steven Scott Bradley
Principal, OneDigital
Chairman Emeritus, African-American Chamber of Commerce of PA, NJ, and DE

Portrait of Jason M Coles with glasses, a goatee, and shoulder length hair

Jason M. Coles
Founder & CEO, Katika

Portrait of Derek S Green, smiling and wearing a dark blue suit and orange striped tie.

Derek S. Green, Esq.
Of Counsel, Obermayer, Rebmann Maxwell & Hippel, LLP
Special Counsel, Bellevue Strategies
Former Philadelphia City Councilmember

Portrait of Nia Eubank Dixon wearing a black tee shirt with orange font reading creative praxis.

Nia Eubanks-Dixon
Founder & Creator, Creative Praxis

Portrait of Chef Kurt Evans wearing a red bandana headband, white chef's shirt and black apron.

Kurt Evans
Chef & Activist

Program details are subject to change.

Promotional Partner: The African-American Chamber of Commerce of PA, NJ, and DE

  • Commemorative 30 years logo for the  African American Chamber Of Commerce of greater Philadelphia

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