Board of Directors
The Board of Directors consists of individuals, who volunteer their time to oversee the policies and procedures of Association of Midnight Basketball Inc. This committed group has roots in the public and private sector, in areas such as business, law, education, social/human services, and transportation.
Dr. Philip W Cooper Jr
Board of Directors – President
Contact Info
Dr. Philip W. Cooper, Jr.
Office 912 234-5003
pcooperjr@gmail.com
Bio - Read More About Dr. Philip W Cooper Jr.
Dr. Philip W. Cooper, Jr. is a native of Savannah, Georgia. He is a graduate of Meharry Medical College – School of Dentistry. In addition to practicing dentistry, he is the Co-Founder and Chief Investigator for Smiles Are Meaningful, Inc., a research organization whose focus is the impact of Sleep Apnea on growth and development in African American Children. Dr. Cooper taught in the public schools of North Carolina, and at Armstrong State College (Armstrong Atlantic State University), in Savannah. He has conducted seminars for school districts, including pre-k and the elementary grades, child care centers, and community groups in the areas of Sleep Apnea and Cognitive Development. Dr. Cooper is the author of the 2009 book, WHY? AFRICAN AMERICAN CHILDREN CAN NOT READ, which emphasizes the impact of Sleep Apnea on children’s ability to learn to read. Cooper has presented and served as keynote speaker for multiple audiences on the subject of Healthcare Disparities and Learning Disabilities – The New Frontier, Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Brain Development inclusive of;
- Alabama State Pre-K Conference
- Chatham Association of Educators
- Chatham Association of Retired Educators
- Georgia Dental Society
- Georgia Association of Educators
- Georgia State Medical Association
- Glynn County (Georgia) Public School System
- Mitchell County (Georgia) Public School System – Professional Development
- National Black Child Development Institute Annual Conference
- City of Savannah, Moses Jackson Advancement Center
- National Medical Association
- Savannah Youth Futures Authority Children’s Summit
- Savannah-Chatham County Public School System – Parent University – Pre-K and High School Teacher Orientation Sessions
- State of Georgia Title I Directors Conference
- Wayne State University Institute for the Study of the African American Child Conference on Research Directions
Lincoln Dental Society – Chicago, IL. - North Dallas Hispanic Dental Association, Dallas, TX.
- Angel Dental Society – Los Angeles, California
- Economic Opportunity Authority, Professional Development Conference, August, 2012
Recent Presentations:
- Speaker, The Neurological impact of Obstructive Sleep Apnea On Brain Development. Sponsored by The American Association Of Physiological Medicine and Dentistry, Oakland, California, June 14, 20013.
- Featured Speaker, Neurobehavioral Implications of Sleep Disordered Breathing, Gulf State Dental Association. Sponsored by The Appliance Therapy Group’s – Smile Foundation. Huston, Texas June 2, 2013
- Featured Speaker, NYU College Of Dentistry Alumni Association 2nd Annual Symposium. Sponsored by The New York State Association of Pediatric Dentists and the New York School of Dentistry Department of Pediatrics. The topic: Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Pediatric Oral Health, New York September 22, 2012.
- Speaker, The Silent Airway Problem that can Impact a Child’s Brain Development Symposium. Sponsored by the American Association of Physiological Medicine & Dentistry. Topic: Neurological Implications of Sleep Disordered Breathing, New York October 6, 2012
- Speaker, MultipleCare Pathways : Sleep Disorder Breathing Conference. Sponsored by the ACADEMY OF CILNICAL SLEEP DISORDERES DISCIPLINES, Phoenix, Arizona, October 20, 2012.
- Trainer, Health Care Ambassadors, National Baptist Convention, Project H.O.P.E. Sponsored by the National Baptist Convention, USA, INC., Atlanta, Georgia, September 4, 2012
- Trainer, Health Care Ambassadors, National Baptist Convention, Project H.O.P.E. Sponsored by the National Baptist Convention, USA, INC., Saint Louis, Missouri June 18, 2012.
Currently, Dr. Cooper is developing the Oral Health Tool Kit for the U.S. Department Of Health and Human Services Tri-Regional Faith-Based Community Health Summit, the Chatham-Savannah Promise Neighborhood Collaboration, and State of Georgia Department of Human Services/Annie E. Casey Foundation, Incorporated – Reading at Grade Level by Third Grade Initiative.
Professionally, Dr. Cooper is a member of the National Dental Association, American Association of Physiological Medicine and Dentistry, American Academy of Sleep Disorders Discipline, International Association for Orthodontics, American Association for Functional Orthodontics, Mid-American Orthodontic Society, American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, American Academy of Sleep Medicine, Appliance Therapy Practitioners Association, The Academy of Clinical Sleep Disorder Disciplines and a registered Sleep Group Solutions Center.
Dr. Cooper is the Clinical Director of Coastal Sleep Solutions, a dental clinical practice devoted to treating Sleep apnea patients who are CPAP intolerant and pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome patients. He is a member of the California-based Smile Foundation Lecture Faculty and has presented at multiple venues on “The Role of the Dentist in Sleep Medicine” and “Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea”. He is also a Board Member of the American Association of Physiological Medicine & Dentistry.
He is a member of the National Black Child Development Institute, a number of other health and education-focused organizations.
Dr. Cooper is past Chairman of the Board of Directors of the West Broad Street YMCA, on the Board of Directors of The Goodness and Mercy Foundation – Hands Across Africa, and served as a volunteer on the Medical Team that has completed multiple mission trips to Ghana and Nigeria, Africa. Dr. Cooper is committed to helping youth develop to their greatest potential, educationally, socially, mentally, and physically, as is evidenced by his membership and leadership on the boards of several child and youth-serving organizations.
Antoine Snelgro
Board of Directors – Vice President
Bio - Read More About Antoine Snelgro
A parent, advocate who lives the vision of the never-ending gifts of education, advocacy, and sustained positive
change for vulnerable and often overlooked, disenfranchised, marginalized, forgotten community members.
Margaret Reid
Secretary
Bio - Read More About Margaret Reid
Margaret Reid is an agent with New York Life Insurance Company. Margaret has been in insurance sales for the past two years. Her longest work history was with TRW Rack and Pinion Division. Margaret graduated from Mount Olive College in 1998 with a Bachelors degree in Business Administration and Management and Organizational Development. She completed her Christian studies at Christian Life School of Theology where she graduated with a Doctorate of Divinity in 2009.
Margaret has been a member of Anointed One’s Ministry International for 30 years. Along with many other responsibilities within the Ministry Margaret serves as Coordinator for the Association of Midnight Basketball League. Margaret resides in Greenville North Carolina where she enjoys being a part of the quaint southern environment.
Retired Judge Walter C. Brandon, Jr.
Bio - Read More About Walter C Brandon Jr.
Judge Brandon is a retired Associate Circuit Judge for the 20th Judicial Circuit, St. Clair County, State of Illinois. He was appointed in 1997 and served in this capacity for over 20 years.
After graduating from East St. Louis Senior High School, he continued to Illinois State University in Normal, Illinois where he received a Bachelor of Sciences in Political Sciences and a Master of Sciences in Criminal Justice. In 1988, he received a Jurist Doctorate from Southern University Law Center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
Judge Brandon learned a lot from his father, a former East St. Louis police lieutenant who influenced his career interests which include his service as: Assistant State’s Attorney; Assistant Public Defender; and principal in a major, medical malpractice law firm in southern Illinois. In the early 90s, Brandon founded his own private law practice. During this time, he was appointed by the township administrators to serve as corporate counsel for the township of Centreville, Illinois and he secured a contract to serve as Municipal Attorney for the City of East St. Louis, Illinois.
In 2008, Judge Brandon was appointed by the Governor of the State of Illinois to serve as a member of the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice Advisory Board where he continues to serve. He has also been designated by the Administrative Office of Illinois Courts to serve as a lecturer in juvenile abuse, neglect, and dependency and delinquency matters at the State of Illinois Judicial Education Conferences. Additionally, Brandon has been appointed to serve on the Alumni Board of Directors for his alma mater, Illinois State University.
Judge Walter Brandon Jr. maintains strong ties to the Metro-East through community engagement. Through the years, Brandon has been involved with the empowerment of youth through entities such as the Illinois State Bar Association Juvenile Justice Section Council, and the Big Brother-Big Sister Organization. Concerned with the plight of youth in the Metro-East area, Brandon established St. Clair County’s first Association of Midnight Basketball League to offer area youth a late-night alternative. Brandon is an active member of the Nu Chi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., and in 2016, Brandon became an executive board member of the Boy Scouts of America, Greater St. Louis Area Council.
Judge Brandon has had the opportunity to share his wealth of knowledge as an Adjunct Professor at Harris Stowe State University in St. Louis, Mo. He’s also served as an Adjunct Professor at Lindenwood University at their Belleville, Illinois campus, where he lectured on the administration of juvenile justice.
Judge Brandon is a member of St. Paul Baptist Church in East St. Louis, Illinois where he leads a weekly men’s bible class. He also serves at Parkside Area Christian Church where he leads a new member class and serves as the Director of the Media Ministry.
Close to Judge Brandon’s heart, are his family and friends who offer loving support and encouragement for his endeavors. His maxim is …enjoy life every day.
Joseph N. Bell
Treasurer
Bio - Read More About Joseph Bell
A thirty-year professional educator, Joe has spent much of his life serving educators and educating the young of Savannah. Through his education investments, he has underwritten scholarship and
scholastic opportunities for students of secondary and post-
secondary studies. Dr. Bell, the owner of Bellklean LLC, serves as Chair of Shaw University’s Board of Directors. With his passion to ensure education for our young, more than100 students have matriculated at Shaw. And, through the Joe Bell Scholars, established at Shaw, some have become doctors, lawyers, teachers, technology specialists, business owners, business executives, and more. Joe joined AMB’s board in November 2022.
Kenneth Burkes
Bio - Read More About Kenneth Burkes
Kenny Burkes is an accomplished professional with extensive experience in operations, logistics, and customer experience management. With a proven track record of driving efficiency and profitability in various roles, Kenny Burkes has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and problem-solving abilities. Outside of my professional career I am pushing for change within our communities and giving our younger brothers and sisters a mentor.
Julius P Terrell
US Attorney Washington, DC
Bio - Read More About Julius P Terrell
Julius P. Terrell, a native of Oakland, California is an attorney, counselor of law, and arbitrator. His areas of practice include estate planning, probate administration, business and family litigation and government relations. He also serves as an arbitrator for the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority.
Prior to entering private practice, Mr. Terrell had a distinguished career in public service including tours of duty as Staff Counsel for United States Congressman Pete “Fortney” Stark (California 13th District), U.S Department of Labor, the Government of the District of Columbia.
Mr. Terrell’s Education includes:
- Wealth Counsel estate planning training.
- Certification in the Fundamentals of Money Management from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business.
- Juris Doctorate Degree conferred by the University of Iowa’s College of Law.
- Undergraduate degree conferred from Pitzer College.
- Special training at Morehouse College and the University of Nairobi in Kenya.
- He is a graduate of Oakland, California’s Bishop O’Dowd High School.
His highest achievement is his faithful service as a son, brother, husband, and father.
National Law Offices of Julius P. Terrell, PLLC
Managing Partner & Owner
Provide Legal counseling in estate planning, litigation, real estate, entertainment, sports, family, business, government relations, and personal law. Advise and Advocate for the best interests of clients.
Men’s Division 1 Basketball Referee
NCAA
Division Men’s Basketball Official
Associate General Counsel
DC Retirement Board
Managed securities litigation for the pension system, negotiated and drafted investment management contracts with private equity and investment companies. Responsible for federal and district government affairs.
Johnnie Berry Jr.
Bio - Read More About Johnnie Berry Jr.
Johnnie Berry Jr. is a dedicated husband, father, and pillar of the Kalamazoo, MI community. At 48 years old, Johnnie has been married to his beloved wife, Toni, for 24 years. Together, they have raised six wonderful children, creating a loving and supportive family environment.
A lifelong resident of Kalamazoo, Johnnie is deeply committed to the well-being and development of his community. He has made a significant impact through various roles, demonstrating a tireless work ethic and a passion for mentoring others. His community involvement ranges from coaching youth sports to participating in local outreach programs.
Johnnie’s professional background is as diverse as it is impressive. Over the years, he has gained valuable experience in Kalamazoo PAL ( Police Activities Athletic League) Director, which has equipped him with a broad skill set and a strong understanding of community needs. His leadership and dedication have earned him the respect and admiration of his peers and neighbors.
In addition to his professional and community endeavors, Johnnie is a devoted family man. He takes great pride in his children’s achievements and enjoys spending quality time with his family. Whether it’s attending school events, supporting his kids’ extracurricular activities, or enjoying family outings, Johnnie’s commitment to his family is evident in everything he does.
Outside of his family and community work, Johnnie has a passion for football coaching, fishing and walking his dogs. These activities not only provide him with personal fulfillment but also serve as opportunities to connect with others who share similar interests.
Johnnie Berry Jr.’s life is a testament to the values of hard work, dedication, and community spirit. His unwavering commitment to his family and his community continues to inspire those around him, making Kalamazoo a better place for everyone.
Delikah Carter
Bio - Read More About Delikah Carter
Born and raised in San Francisco, California, Delikah knew that she was set to be “Limitless” with anything that she touched. The affability that she has brought on her journey in life has empowered men and women across the globe on their personal and professional journeys. Delikah is a Customer Service Supervisor, Policy & Procedures Unit with the Georgia Department of Labor, with over 20+ years of service with the federal government. Graduate of Walden University, where she earned a Master of Business Administration with a specialization of Human Resources Management.
Delikah believes that her story of being a single-mother of five amazing and smart young adults and a divorcee, of a twenty-three year marriage, has come out on the other side as a survivor, role-model and a light of inspiration. She has a podcast where she talks about thought provoking content and inspiration. Delikah was born to serve her community and she loves every second of it!
She serves as the President of her Homeowner’s Association Board of Directors, the owner of the Delikah Carter Firm LLC, DC Logistics, Yaa Sapphire, Grits, Butter & Sugar Podcast, Executive Director of Locust Grove, Georgia, The Association of Midnight Basketball League, Inc. (AMB). Member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc, Lambda Nu Chapter and Blacks in Government (BIG) Atlanta Region Chapter Secretary.
Patricia Luckey
Bio - Read More About Patricia Luckey
CEO/Founder of Kingdom Prep School of Excellence and Owner of PLC Firm, LLC
Patricia Luckey is not just a name but a legacy in the making. Her story is one of tenacity, passion, and unwavering dedication. A certified professional coach, Patricia’s work has consistently revolved around igniting young minds and propelling them towards excellence. For over 15 years, she has been at the forefront of mentoring both affluent and at-risk youth, ensuring they recognize and harness their potential irrespective of their backgrounds.
Her commitment to youth began on the courts of the University of Houston’s Main Campus, where she shined as a D1 Basketball athlete on a full scholarship. This dedication took her to the pinnacle of success: playing in the prestigious Olympic Festival Games. From there, the world became her arena. Patricia took her basketball prowess overseas, showcasing her skills in Priolo, Sicily, and Malta. Her crowning achievement was playing with the elite WNBA team, the Phoenix Mercury.
But her court triumphs are just a segment of Patricia’s multifaceted life. Off the court, she serves as a youth minister with ‘1 Team 1 Fight Ministries,’ further testament to her commitment to nurturing the next generation. Patricia’s faith and belief in transformation are evident in her ministry work, where she consistently emphasizes the spiritual development of youth.
Family remains Patricia’s anchor. A proud mother of four and a doting grandmother, she channels her experiences and learnings into ensuring a bright future for her family and all the youth she mentors. Her core belief is powerful and simple: Every child deserves an opportunity to shine, to manifest their God-given talents, and to chase their dreams without the shadow of their childhood circumstances dictating their future. Patricia Luckey stands as a beacon of hope, exemplifying that with faith, passion, and the right guidance, any dream is achievable.
Yvette Williams
Public Relations and Marketing
Bio - Read More About Yvette Williams
For over 21 years, Yvette has demonstrated a professional capacity to serve disenfranchised and underrepresented populations addressing issues of sex trafficking, life skills trainings, expungements and underemployment for individuals (e.g. Children Sexually Exploited, Men and Women affected by their criminal records, Adult Survivors of Trafficking and Returning Citizens formerly incarcerated and so forth) assisting them with their efforts to re-enter mainstream society and/or the workforce. It started in 2008 when Yvette became the sole-proprietor of Back on Track Expungement Services, a legal document preparation service for clients seeking the eradication of previous criminal infractions. Back On Track Expungement Services introduced Yvette to society’s most helpless and overlooked population.
In 2012, Yvette joined Love Never Fails, an anti-sex trafficking agency located in Oakland, CA, to combat the harmful lifelong effects of sex trafficking. She worked with them from 2011-2015 in various roles, paid and volunteer. Yvette completed a Street Outreach training and Mentors For Positive Change training after which she hit the streets with volunteers to feed and offer a “way out of the life” to the children and adults that were being forced and manipulated into sex trafficking. She moved on to the role of Volunteer Program Manager where she facilitated a Paid Job Training and Life Skills Program for the participants.
In 2015, Yvette became the Operations Manager at a startup non-profit organization, Pillars of Hope, Inc., an organization working in the fight to restore the lives of survivors of sex trafficking.
She facilitated Pillars Street Outreach Program, and was instrumental in implementing Church Outreach with a Pastors Meet and Greet event for Pillars. Yvette worked with the Case Manager constructing Pillars Safe House Policies and Procedures manual. Yvette conducted specialized and monthly trainings. Yvette took on the role of mobile case manager for families for CSEC children and adults that were kidnapped, working closely with law enforcement and providing resources to heal the family as a whole.
In 2015, Yvette became the sole proprietor of Back on Track Community Services where she conducts workshops, on human trafficking, expungements, cyber bullying, and life skills trainings, at nonprofits throughout the Contra Costa County that services at-risk children and adults.
In 2023, Yvette joined the Midnight Basketball family as a Workshop Coordinator with the City of Antioch in California. After successfully increasing participation and community interest, she was invited to joining the National Board.
Yvette will continue to work tirelessly letting her clients know:
“We are not the worst mistake we have ever made in our lives!”…Bryan Stevenson