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Our Officers & Board of Directors.
Jeanine Hunter
Founder, President
A National Capital Chesapeake Bay Emmy award winning Director, Post-Production, nominated Writer/Producer and serial entrepreneur. Born and raised in Buffalo, NY. Made in Washington, D.C. Jeanine began her career in radio at WUFO am in Buffalo. Obtain a Bachelor of Art (B.A) in Public Communications from S.U.N.Y. College at Buffalo and a Master of Fine Art in Film from Howard University. Her film career started as an Assistant Director intern/PA on Spike Lee’s 25th Hour. She’s worked as a Writer/Producer for various TV networks, media, and entertainment companies, such as, Discovery Communication, Turner Broadcasting and Public Broadcasting Service (PBS). She has also owned and ran several small businesses and brick-and-mortar. Ms. Hunter founded Blacklight Media Group and Blacklight Media Foundation and is responsible for leading BM’s development teams, contractors, projects, and strategies.
Monique Caston
Vice President
Monique Nicole Caston, MSW, MSM has over 15 years of progressive leadership experience working within the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. She is a subject-matter expert in affordable housing, grants administration, and program management. Monique has worked alongside several government agencies such as the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Chicago Housing Authority (CHA), the District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA), and Cook County Government in Illinois. Additionally in 2013 Monique founded Caston Career Development Solutions to provide resume services and career advice to those that are on a budget looking to take that next step in their careers. Through her professional work within the nonprofit sector, Monique enjoys having the opportunity to work to assist thousands of low-income families and youth on their path toward achieving economic self-sufficiency.
TBD
Secretary
TBD
Treasurer
Dr. Genelle Morris
Director of Education Programming
Dr. Morris is proud to serve as Superintendent of the Olean City School District. She joined the district in July of 2022. A passionate advocate for providing high-quality education for all children, Dr. Morris has spent more than 30 years in education, dedicating her life to ensuring each child graduates from high school ready for college or a career. While pursuing that goal, she worked in varying roles, including science instruction, curriculum and assessment development, and leading work in assessment, accountability, research, and evaluation at the district level.
Before joining Olean, Dr. Morris worked in Buffalo Public Schools and the Rochester City Schools. While in Rochester, she served as Deputy Superintendent of Teaching and Learning and Deputy of Operations and Systems Innovation. Her last role in the Buffalo Public Schools was the Chief Accountability Officer/Chief Information Officer. She began her career as a Biology teacher with the Buffalo Public Schools and has also served as Assistant Superintendent of Shared Accountability, Director of Data Analysis, Supervisor of Data Analysis, principal, and assistant principal. She has a strong history of working with community, city, and county organizations and is committed to developing partnerships with the Olean community.
Dr. Morris earned her Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Policy from the University at Buffalo, receiving the prestigious “Thinking Outside the Box” award for her thesis, which studied the implementation of the Annual Professional Performance Review (APPR) in New York State. She earned a master’s degree and Certificate of Advanced Study in Educational Leadership and Policy and a master’s degree in Science Education from the University at Buffalo. Her bachelor’s degree in biology was earned from Canisius College.
Dr. Morris has also served on various educational committees and boards at the local, regional, state, and national levels. She has served as an adjunct faculty member for several years and has served on various education committees and councils at the local, regional, state, and national levels. Her passion for student advocacy, diversity, and progress ignites everything she does.
Troy Donte Prestwood
Public & Community Relations Director
Troy Donté Prestwood is a community architect, change agent, and an in-demand communications expert. He is an award-winning CEO of the Prestwood Group, full-service communication, media, and business consultancy based in Washington, DC.
With nearly 25 years of experience and accomplishments, Troy's expertise lies in successfully conceptualizing and implementing innovative communications and marketing campaigns to drive market impact and expand brands. He has also successfully launched national and local initiatives with governmental and private sector entities around healthcare, K-12 and higher education, and issue campaigns.
A fourth-generation Washingtonian, Troy co-founded River East Emerging Leaders (r.e.e.l.), a 501 (c)(3) leadership collective that engages and empowers the community. He is also a former DC elected official, serving three terms as an Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner and Chairman of ANC 8A. He currently serves as the President of the Ward 8 Democrats. He is the chair of WAMU-FM’s (NPR) Community Board and is a member of the board of directors for LEARN DC Public Charter School. He formerly served as a board member of the Ward 8 Little League, Duke Ellington School of the Arts Alumni Association, Howard University School of Communications Alumni Association, and Youngnificent, Inc., an afterschool youth services program based in Anacostia.
A first-generation college graduate, Troy earned a bachelor of arts degree in journalism and political science from Howard University, a master of arts degree in digital journalism and public affairs from American University, and an executive certificate in Global Human Resources from the Howard University School of Business. He is a 20-year member of the National Association of Black Journalists, the Washington Association of Black Journalists, and the Public Relations Society of America. He served in AmeriCorps and in the DC Medical Reserve Corps during the COVID-19 health emergency.
Cadell Cook
Audio & Visual Program Director
After earning a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, and working his first six years as a post-production mixer and sound designer, Cadell started to pursue his passion for creative writing. His prose has been published in BTFL Magazine and his self-published novel, “Weepers”, has impressed and inspired his readers. Writing for a 48hour film festival introduced him to the screenplay format.
His feature crime drama, “Reunion” won Best Screenplay at the 2019 Pan African Film Festival; and his action/comedy feature, “Gun Powder” a.k.a. “Joleen” was a finalist at the 2020 Los Angeles International Screenplay Awards; his short political drama, “Four Points” won Best Short Film at the 2019 Charlotte Black Film Festival, and Best Original Story at the 2019 CineOdyssey Film Festival; and the pilot episode for “Nothing Left” was a semi-finalist at two Screencraft Screenplay competitions in 2018.
His nearly twenty years of experience in post-production have prepared him to create unique projects across all forms of media.
Wanakhavi Simiyu
Multi-Media Program Director
Wankhavi is a distinguished professional with an exceptional career spanning over two decades in the captivating world of film and media. His journey commenced with a remarkable role as a production assistant and assistant editor, bringing documentary films to life in the vibrant heart of Washington DC.
Demonstrating versatility and artistic prowess, Wankhavi seamlessly transitioned into the dynamic realm of reality television, where he showcased his talents as an accomplished editor, shooter, and producer. Immersed in this exhilarating landscape, he acquired a rich tapestry of experiences while collaborating with esteemed production companies.
Fuelled by an unwavering entrepreneurial spirit, Wankhavi embarked on a visionary endeavor, founding his own distinguished corporate video production company. With a portfolio that encompasses a diverse range of clients, spanning from local non-profit organizations to prestigious universities and international corporations, he consistently delivers captivating visual narratives that resonate with audiences across the spectrum.
While his expertise predominantly lies in the realm of film and media production, Wankhavi's deep-rooted passion extends beyond his professional pursuits. He possesses a profound commitment to uplifting the youth in underserved communities, recognizing the immense responsibility that accompanies the power of media. Harnessing these influential tools to champion philanthropy has remained a steadfast priority for him throughout his career.
Presently, Wankhavi spearheads the operations of Mwanga House, a prestigious boutique media company nestled in the heart of Maryland. Guided by his exceptional leadership, this creative sanctuary serves as a testament to his unwavering dedication to excellence in the ever-evolving landscape of the industry.
In the realm of film and media, Wankhavi stands as an epitome of professionalism and artistic brilliance. His remarkable journey showcases an unwavering commitment to both craft and community, where he wields the power of media as a catalyst for positive change. With an indomitable spirit and a captivating vision, Wankhavi continues to redefine boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on the world of cinema.
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Michael Quinniey
Media/Social Education Advisor
Michael Quinniey was as an employee of WKBW-TV Ch.7 ABC for 25 years. He joined the station in 1986 after working with AM Buffalo and commercial production and the Engineering Technician. Prior to that Michael worked in local radio news at WGR and WBFO as a News / sports reporter.
Born in the Cold Spring neighborhood in Buffalo, New York Michael Attended Northeastern University where he completed an introductory program in civil engineering, and he double majored in Business Administration and Broadcast Management at Missouri V State College. In June of 2017 he graduated from the University at Buffalo School of Management CEL (Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership). In August of 2022 he completed the (CBREDT) East Side Avenues Community Based Real Estate Development Training Program.
Michael worked as a technical engineer/producer and has done freelance work with the Buffalo Bills, Buffalo Sabers as well as with ESPN, MSG, and the Fox Network. Serving as a union steward for 17 years Michael was the chief union steward for NABET/CWA local #25. Also, he served on the Broadcasting & Entertainment Federal Credit Union as a loan officer for 10 years.
In 1998 Michael co-founded the Western New York Minority Media Professionals Inc a non-profit organization whose mission is “to expand opportunities for youth by building on their dreams, passions, by teaching skills & leadership through theater and multi-media arts”. Under Quinniey’s leadership the Media Professionals Inc secured a contract to create urban independent programming for WKBW-TV ABC Ch.7. It was one of the first of its kind in commercial television in the country. In April of 2020 he became the executive director.
He is the of chair the restoration of the Historic Sattler "Broadway" Theatre, built in 1914 located at 512 Broadway. He has been instrumental in founding Upfront TV, Official Heat, Upfront Business Magazine, Upfront Sports Trek, The Queen City Black Film Festival, and The Great Day in Jazz Buffalo Event.
Currently Michael is on the board of directors of the Buffalo History Museum, Preservation Buffalo Niagara, Squeaky Wheel Media, and the WNED-TV Advisory Board.
Clara Benice
PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
Clara Benice is a multi-talented and award-winning creative professional with a passion for storytelling and a commitment to the nonprofit sector. As a Board member of the Black Light Media, she brings a unique blend of artistic vision, strategic thinking, and philanthropic dedication to the organization's mission. With a background as a creative writer, director, and producer, Clara has crafted compelling narratives that have touched the hearts and minds of audiences across various mediums. Her exceptional storytelling abilities, combined with her keen eye for detail and artistic integrity, have garnered various recognitions. Drawing from her extensive experience in television and film, Clara brings a fresh and imaginative perspective to the Black Light Media Board. Her creative insights and expertise in content creation have proven invaluable in developing impactful initiatives that drive meaningful change.
Beyond her artistic accomplishments, Clara is passionately committed to social causes and has dedicated her talents to supporting nonprofit organizations. Her understanding of the power of storytelling as a catalyst for social change has led to the creation of impactful campaigns and initiatives that inspire action and promote empathy. She embraces emerging technologies and industry trends, ensuring that her strategies and campaigns remain innovative and effective. Clara also shares her expertise by mentoring aspiring artists and filmmakers, contributing to the development of the next generation of creative leaders. Her dedication to fostering an inclusive and equitable environment aligns perfectly with the values of the Black Light Media Board. Clara holds three degrees from the Pennsylvania State University and continues to pursue ongoing education and training to stay at the forefront of her craft.
Our Advisory Board.
Dr. Rustin M. Lewis
Advisor
Rustin M. Lewis, D.P.A. is a nonprofit executive, community leader, former political candidate, educator, and author. Reared in Gary, Indiana, Dr. Lewis was born into a family committed to volunteerism and community service. He has continued the Lewis family tradition by building a life and career dedicated to creating opportunities for the underserved.
Dr. Lewis is the Executive Director of Communities In Schools of the Nation's Capital. Previously, Dr. Lewis was a candidate in the 2018 At-Large DC Council race. Throughout his career, Dr. Lewis has served as a senior executive for local, regional, and national nonprofit organizations.
Dr. Lewis holds a doctorate in public administration from the University of Baltimore, a master of public administration, and a bachelor's degree in sociology from Clark Atlanta University. He also has executive management certificates from Harvard and Georgetown Universities.
Dr. Lewis is married to Renee Lewis, and they have a daughter, Reyna.
Charles Wilson
Advisor