Theme: Dreaming Forward, Building Sustainability

The future depends on the bold ideas we envision today. This event brings together visionary voices across diverse fields, with education and personal passions as key catalysts for innovative thinking, to redefine sustainable growth. Through breakthrough solutions in areas like climate action, social equity, education, and resource resilience, these transformative ideas aim to secure a thriving, sustainable future for generations to come. Let’s push the boundaries of possibility by leveraging both our knowledge and personal interests to create lasting impact.

Prairie View A&M University
100 University Dr.
Prairie View, Texas, 77446
United States

Ali Fares, Ph.D.

Water Security & Climate Resilience Expert

A globally recognized expert in water security, disaster preparedness, and climate resilience, Dr. Ali Fares serves as an Endowed Professor at Prairie View A&M University, leading research in the Water-Energy-Food Nexus. He has published over 70 peer-reviewed articles and edited two books on hydrology, flood mitigation, and sustainable water solutions. With a career spanning academia and applied research, Dr. Fares is at the forefront of climate adaptation strategies to protect vulnerable communities.

Bobby Smith II, Ph.D.

Food Justice Scholar & Author

An award-winning author, social scientist, and professor, Dr. Bobby J. Smith II explores the historical and contemporary relationship between Black communities, food justice, and agricultural policy. He is an Associate Professor at the University of Illinois-Urbana-Champaign, with affiliations in food science, human nutrition, and public policy. His groundbreaking book, Food Power Politics: The Food Story of the Mississippi Civil Rights Movement, reconfigures our understanding of civil rights, agriculture, and food inequities in America. Dr. Smith’s work has received national recognition, including awards from the National Endowment for the Humanities and the American Council of Learned Societies. Bobby is a proud graduate of Prairie View A&M University and its College of Agriculture, and he is a former Student Government Association President.

Brandie Freely

Author & Well-Living Educator

Brandie Freely is a visionary educator, author, and creator of The Free School and The Escapism Retreat. With over 20 years of experience in personal growth and transformation, she specializes in helping individuals embrace reinvention, intentional living, and self-discovery. Through her writing and curated retreats, Brandie encourages others to prioritize well-being, creativity, and the freedom to dream beyond limitations. Brandie is also a PVAMU Alumna.

Jeremy Peaches

Urban Agriculture Expert & Entrepreneur

A second-generation farmer, PVAMU Alumni & agricultural innovator, Jeremy Peaches is transforming the way communities engage with urban farming and sustainability. He is the founder of Fresh Life Organic Farms and co-founder of the Black Farmer Box, initiatives aimed at improving food accessibility and environmental stewardship. As Texas’ first Urban Agriculture Specialist, Jeremy has implemented community-driven farming solutions through Lucille’s 1913 nonprofit farms. His work has been featured on Revolt, Disney, and Hulu, highlighting his commitment to food justice, economic empowerment, and climate resilience.

Shellie Dick II, M.Ed

Educator & Leadership Advocate

With 26 years of experience as an educator and mentor, Shellie Dick is a proud PVAMU alumnus with a background in Industrial Technology and Educational Leadership. He is an active member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and a former collegiate track and field athlete. Based in Kingwood, Texas, he has dedicated his career to shaping young minds and fostering community engagement. A devoted husband and father of five, Shellie brings a wealth of experience in mentorship, leadership development, and educational advocacy.

Whitney Hawkins, M.Ed.

Education Leader & Instructional Coach

Whitney Hawkins is a dedicated educator with 15+ years of experience in curriculum development, literacy, and instructional coaching. A proud graduate of Prairie View A&M University with a Bachelor's in Interdisciplinary Studies, she went on to earn a Master's in Curriculum and Instruction from Texas A&M University, specializing in urban education. She recently achieved her Principal Certification from Lamar University. Currently an Academic Facilitator at Lake Highlands Learning Community in Richardson ISD, Whitney is passionate about improving literacy and creating equitable educational opportunities.