Brandy N. Smart
PR Director, Kulur Group
(480) 955-7153
bsmart@kulurgroup.com
(Black PR Wire) Houston, TX – Kulur Group, in collaboration with Grambling State University’s College of Business and humanUPtions, proudly announces a distinguished lineup of speakers and artists for the inaugural Dope Thinkers Only Conference (DTOC) presented by MJ on Purpose, September 11–12, 2025, at Grambling State University.
The two-day conference will offer sessions led by a variety of industry professionals and will feature four learning tracks in marketing, communications, leadership, and entrepreneurship. Each learning track is designed to guide attendees on a journey from job seeker to business owner and industry innovator.
Dean of Grambling State’s College of Business, Dr. Derrick Warren, highlighted the alignment between the university’s mission and the conference’s goals. “The Inaugural Dope Thinkers Only Conference represents exactly what the future demands — innovative ideas, unapologetic creativity, and culturally grounded leadership,” he said. “At Grambling State University, we’re not just preparing students to take jobs; we’re preparing them to take the lead. Partnering with Kulur Group and humanUPtions affirms our belief that brilliance lives in bold spaces, and it’s time the world takes notice.”
DTOC Speakers include Tina Davis, President of EMPIRE, a groundbreaking music executive, and a product of Grambling State University. "Coming back to Grambling feels like coming home, and returning for a fireside chat at the Dope Thinkers Only Conference is a huge honor,” Davis shares.
The conference will bring together a remarkable group of thought leaders and artists, with additional names to be announced in the program. Attendees will learn from and engage with:
- Luke Cooper, General Partner, Latimer Ventures VC Fund
- Kris Wright, VP, Nike Jordan Brand Footwear & Merchandise
- Elvin Ross, Emmy-award winning, Founder/CEO e. Ross studios and JAZZLAND
- Darrell Spencer, CEO of Crowned Skin
- AJ McQueen - Music Artist and CEO of Godbody Energy
- Denise Bennett, Head of Integrated Marketing, Ebony
- Lincoln Stephens, Chief Brand Officer, TD Jakes Enterprises
- Celeste Warren, Former VP of Global Diversity and Inclusion at Merck and Founder of Destination STEM
Nicholas Love, CEO of Kulur Group, shares his vision: “The Dope Thinkers Only Conference is the beginning of a movement. We’re building something bigger than a program. We’re building new pipelines, new networks, and new narratives for those who are ready to lead. We recognize that Dope Thinking can happen anywhere, and it all starts in partnership with my alma mater, Grambling.”
DTOC is open to students, faculty, and professionals nationwide, offering transformational conversations, career-shaping workshops, and opportunities for mentorship and collaboration.
For registration, partnership, or volunteer information, visit dopethinkers.org/conference
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About Dope Thinkers
Dope Thinkers is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to preparing students for careers in marketing, communications, and business ownership through culturally intentional experiences, mentorship, and industry engagement.
About Kulur Group
Kulur Group is a diverse-owned marketing agency that partners with bold brands to deliver transformative campaigns across industries. Pronounced “color,” the agency specializes in omnichannel strategy, brand management, and storytelling.
About Grambling State University College of Business
Grambling State University’s College of Business is AACSB-accredited and nationally recognized for producing high-performing graduates in business, technology, and leadership. The college is known for its commitment to innovation, diversity, and academic excellence.