Speakers

Friday Host

James E. Lehaman Jr.

James E. Lehaman Jr. is a dedicated educator, mentor, speaker and nonprofit founder whose professional journey reflects a commitment to empowering students, cultivating leadership, and expanding opportunities through education and community engagement. Currently serving as English and communication faculty at Dallas College, Lehaman brings a diverse background in higher education, student engagement, academic leadership and communications.

He previously served as a coordinator of student engagement within the Office of Student Life and Engagement, where his work supported student involvement, leadership development and meaningful campus experiences. His passion for connecting students with opportunities continues to shape his approach to teaching, mentorship and service.

Before joining Dallas College, Lehaman served as an English language arts and reading instructor with Dallas Independent School District and held leadership positions with Sylvan Learning, including center director and curriculum director. In these roles, he guided academic programming, strengthened educational partnerships and supported students in reaching their academic potential.

Lehaman holds a Master of Science in mass communication and media studies and a Bachelor of Arts in communication studies from Jackson State University, as well as a professional certification in nonprofit management from Collin College.

As an educator and community advocate, Lehaman embodies the belief that leadership begins with purpose, grows through service and creates opportunities for others to succeed. His commitment to student achievement, mentorship and personal development reflects the spirit of this year's conference theme, “Vision Beyond Limits: Seeing What's Next. Becoming What's Possible.”

Keynote Spearker

Ricky “Running” Watters

Ricky “Running” Watters is a Super Bowl champion and former All-Pro running back for the San Francisco 49ers, Philadelphia Eagles and Seattle Seahawks. His accomplishments include rushing for over 1,000 yards for three different teams, scoring five touchdowns in a playoff game, scoring three touchdowns in Super Bowl XXIX and winning a national championship with the University of Notre Dame. He is known for his unique high-step running style, versatility and passion for winning. Watters retired from the NFL with over 10,000 career rushing yards and nearly 5,000 receiving yards. He earned five Pro Bowl selections and four All-Madden Team honors and ranks just behind Walter Payton for the most consecutive starts by an NFL running back.

Watters was born and raised in the inner city of Harrisburg, Pa., where he was referred to as “Skinny Rick” by his friends, who were older, bigger and tougher than him. They grew up playing tackle football in industrial parking lots and in the streets, dodging cars. His childhood was negatively impacted by learning from a stranger that he was adopted and by being told repeatedly that he wouldn’t amount to anything. However, those experiences are exactly what drove him to succeed.

Watters credits his adoptive parents, teammates, coaches and mentors for helping him refine his work ethic, stay true to himself, and achieve his full potential on and off the field. He remains passionate about giving back to the community and continues to inspire youth while raising awareness for children and teens in the foster care system. He recently published two children’s books, “A Gift Called Shane” and “Little Urchin by the Sea,” which focus on the love, hope and perseverance associated with the adoption journey.

Keynote Panel

Marielle McGregor 

Marielle McGregor is a marketing leader, storyteller and lifelong performing artist passionate about helping others discover their potential. As the assistant director of student success and program marketing at Dallas College, she develops strategies that connect students with opportunities, resources and experiences that support their success. A graduate of Southern Methodist University, McGregor holds degrees in dance performance and advertising. She is also co-founder and executive director of 6 o’Clock Dance Theatre, where she champions artistic expression and empowers dancers to pursue multiple passions. Whether through movement, communication or leadership, McGregor believes in challenging limitations, embracing possibilities and helping others find their voice.

Leslie D. Collier

Leslie D. Collier is a vice president and program manager in Bank of America’s Chief People Organization. Collier has over 20 years of experience in financial services and talent strategy. She leads community college partnerships in the Dallas–Fort Worth area, focusing on building pathways that connect education to meaningful career opportunities. Collier’s background spans recruiting, sales operations and program leadership, giving her a holistic perspective on talent pipelines and organizational needs. She is passionate about inclusive growth, professional development, and strengthening connections between education and industry.

Dr. Terri O’Neal Ford

Dr. Terri O’Neal Ford is senior director of workforce grants compliance and revenue at Dallas College. Her career spans higher education, grants management, executive administration and nearly two decades as an employment law paralegal. She previously served as assistant to the president and chief of staff at Tarrant County College’s Northeast Campus. She is also the 25th national president and CEO of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc. A Dallas College alumna, Dr. Ford holds an associate degree in paralegal studies, a bachelor’s degree from UT Arlington, and a master’s in counseling and a doctorate in family studies from Texas Woman’s University. She brings a practical perspective on leadership and resilience, and she encourages students to value their experiences and see themselves as leaders who can create meaningful change.

Aerial Hobson

Aerial Hobson is a senior project lead in the Office of Academic Initiatives at Dallas College. Hobson has experience in student engagement, talent development and academic initiatives. She brings warmth, humor and practical insight to conversations about leadership, resilience and pursuing new possibilities. Hobson encourages students to recognize their strengths and take meaningful steps toward their goals, even when the path ahead is uncertain. She is a proud mom, avid reader and member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.