DERRICK D’MAR MARTIN
Derrick “D’MAR” Martin is an award-winning drummer, recording artist, producer, songwriter, entrepreneur, and motivational speaker with more than 30 years of professional experience. In 2026, he was honored as the Blues Music Awards’ Drummer of the Year, recognizing his exceptional musicianship and dynamic performances.
D’MAR spent 17 years touring the world with rock-and-roll pioneer Little Richard, earning a reputation as one of the industry’s most accomplished drummers. He has also recorded and performed with acclaimed artists including Carla Thomas, Wendy Moten, Syl Johnson, Maria Muldaur, Denise LaSalle, and Dorothy Moore.
As a recording artist, D’MAR recently released his 11th album, Levels, showcasing his signature blend of soul, funk, jazz, and R&B. He currently serves as drummer for the award-winning Rick Estrin & The Nightcats and continues to inspire audiences worldwide through performance, recording, education, and entrepreneurship.
JOEL ACIE
Joel Acie is a dedicated DEI leader with 20+ years of experience. He is Principal of Bailey King Consulting LLC, providing Governance, Risk & Compliance advisory, enterprise/program management and Chief of Staff-style services, and supplier diversity and procurement consulting to organizations navigating complex regulatory and business environments. Most recently, Joel served as DEI Strategic Planning and Oversight Principal at Fannie Mae, partnering with enterprise leaders to refine DEI strategies, conduct SWOT analyses, maintain risk-appropriate governance, and advise on policies to strengthen decision-making and regulatory alignment.
He also served as Deputy Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer at the Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh (2018-2025), overseeing inclusion programs and managing the annual FHFA exam, internal audits, and risk assessments related to D&I. From 2013 to 2018, he was Manager of Supplier Diversity at UPMC, building its supplier diversity program and overseeing government contracting for its Insurance Services Division. Joel began his career at Highmark Inc., advancing through roles in diversity program analysis, organizational effectiveness, and procurement diversity consulting.
Acie also advised Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf’s Advisory Council for Diversity, Inclusion, and Small Business Opportunities, co-authoring a report that spurred statewide supplier diversity reforms.
MICHAEL PARKS
Michael Parks is an Enhanced Building Substitute and a dedicated educator with 27 years of experience serving students and families in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District. Having served as an administrator for eight years and as a classroom instructor for nineteen years, Michael understands the challenges, responsibilities, and rewards of working in education.
Guided by the belief that every child deserves an exceptional education, he has dedicated his career to creating learning environments where students are challenged, supported, and inspired to lead. Parks has focused on developing and implementing innovative approaches that promote high expectations, academic achievement, character development, and leadership among young men and women. He also recognizes that educators need the tools, professional support, and opportunities necessary to do their jobs effectively and positively impact student success.
Serving as CTU Member-at-Large (K–8) and Chair of the Community Relations Committee, Michael works to strengthen partnerships among educators, families, community organizations, and civic leaders. He believes that meaningful collaboration is essential to advocating for public education, supporting educators, and ensuring that every student and family has the resources they need to succeed.
Parks also coordinates the Side-by-Side Program, fostering a meaningful partnership with the Cleveland Public Library that connects students, families, schools, and the community to strengthen student outcomes.
