TONYA M. MATTHEWS, PH.D. is president and CEO of the International African American Museum (IAAM) located in Charleston, SC at the historically sacred site of Gadsden’s Wharf. Under her leadership, IAAM has become a champion of authentic, empathetic storytelling of African American history and thus is one of the nation’s newest platforms for the disruption of institutionalized racism as America continues the walk toward “a more perfect union.” A non-profit executive veteran, Matthews is a thought-leader in social entrepreneurship, institutional equity and inclusion strategy, and the intersection of formal and informal education. She has authored articles and book chapters on inclusive board governance, non-profit management, and fundraising. Her background as a poet and engineer has made her a highly sought-after visioning partner on boards and community and economic development projects and a frequent public speaker. Previously, Matthews was Associate Provost for Inclusive Workforce Development & Director of the STEM Innovation Learning Center at Wayne State University and, prior to that, president & CEO of the Michigan Science Center. She is founder of The STEMinista Project movement to engage girls and STEMinista Rising, which supports professional women. Matthews is a native of Washington, D.C. and – in each community she has settled – is known for planting roots on the side of town best for keeping an eye on progress.