Julia Rafal-Baer

BGR Holding LLC provides legal services. It employs lawyers, policy specialists and other professionals to represents the interests of its clients at the federal level. BGR clients include international governments, trade associations, non-profits, academic institutions, hospitals, coalitions, state and local governments. The company was founded by Haley R. Barbourm, Lanny Griffith and Edward M. Rogers in 1991 and is headquartered in Washington, DC.

The Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) is a state-owned pension fund manager headquartered in Austin, Texas. The firm was founded by the Texas Legislature in 1937 to provide service and disability retirement benefits to teachers and administrators of the public school systems of Texas, which include institutions of higher education. In 1949, legislation expanded membership eligibility to include all employees of public education institutions. In 1985, TRS was assigned responsibility to administer health insurance program for public school retirees. The firm invests funds under its stewardship and delivers benefits to members as authorized by the Texas Legislature.

The Michigan Science Center is a nonprofit organization located in Detroit, MI. The center offers a variety of interactive exhibits and experiences that aim to put visitors at the center of science. These include live stage shows, an IMAX® Dome, a 4D theater, a planetarium, and a special exhibit hall spanning over 8,700 square feet.

Duke University is an academic university that offers undergraduate, graduate and professional programs. It also has publications and research services. The university was founded in 1838 and is headquartered in Durham, NC.

Detroit Suphony Orchestra operates is an American orchestra firm. The firm’s performance schedule includes Classical, Pops, Jazz, Young People’s, Neighborhood trumpeter, and collaborations with chart-topping musicians from Smokey Robinson to Kid Rock. The company is headquartered in Detroit, MI.

The International African American Museum is a research center that helps individuals reconnect with their family history and ancestors. The non-profit company is based in Charleston, SC. The museum tells the stories of the African American experience across generations, documenting the journey that began in Africa centuries ago and continues today. The museum invites individuals of all creeds and spiritualities to join their journey at this sacred site. The company was founded by Michael Boulware Moore. Tonya Matthews has been the CEO of the company since 2021.

First Independence Corp. (Michigan) is a well-managed financial institution founded in 1970 and based in Detroit, MI with subsidiaries in the United States. The company's mission is to be a beacon for capital accumulation for individuals and business entities by delivering financial services with an affinity for under-served and minority communities. First Independence Bank, a state-chartered commercial bank, complies with all applicable regulations. The company offers a range of financial services, including ATM/debit cards, business credit cards, mobile banking, online banking, cashier's checks, loan payment, and notary services. Additionally, FIB has partnered with the Michigan Chronicle to provide important information to improve financial literacy. The CEO is Kenneth Kelly.

Cornell University is an educational institution that offers undergraduate and post graduate programs. It was founded in 1865 and is based in Ithaca, NY.