Hidden Figures 2018 Gala Review – Celebrating Legacies

Dr. Patricia Bennett and the Hidden Figure Honorees for 2018 Gala - L to R - Dr. Cheryl T. Gomillion; Honorable Judge Glenda Hatchett; Dr. Barbara Gales; Dr. Bennett; Dr. Stephanie Miles-Richardson; Dr. Sarah Vinson; Dr. Judy Greenlea Taylor, and Dr. Loretta Hicks - Photo Courtesy of Renee Sudderth
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In December 2016, the Oscar Nominated, historical documentary movie “Hidden Figures” was released with a Box Office Grossing Record of $236 million shocking the world because the movie focused on three African American Women in Computer Science from the 1940’s – 1970’s. They are Katherine Johnson, 100 years old (Mathematician), the late, Dorothy Vaughan, passed at age 98 in 2008 (Mathematician and Supervisor), and the late Mary Jackson, passed at age 84 in 2005 (National Aeronautics and Space Administration- NASA Engineer). They shattered color and gender barriers showing society that African American Women could achieve high levels of success in complex scientific fields especially calculating space flight trajectories for Project Mercury and Apollo 11.

The movie opened many eyes and expanded possibilities and hopes for young girls and women in scientific and technical careers. One brilliant idea was revealed at the second annual “Hidden Figures” Gala, an elegant, black-tie event held in Atlanta, Georgia at the Hyatt Regency’s International Ballroom on October 27, 2018, and several vendors participated.

(Honoree) Dr. Stephanie Miles-Richardson (in red) and her family and friends purchasing items from Mona Lisa’s Accessories (in black), one of the five Gala’s vendors – – Photo Courtesy of Renee Sudderth
One of the Gala’s vendors – Photo Courtesy of Renee Sudderth

Tameka Nelson, CEO of Mee’Kaa body products of essential oils for you to relieve muscle spasms, quench dry skin and smell good (631) 743-0717 or skinmoisturizerbymeekaa.com – Photo Courtesy of Renee Sudderth

Sarah Meyers, Phd, RN; Mrs. Mary Green-Blake; Dr. Judy Greenlea-Taylor, and Dr. Reuben Warren checking in for the Gala – Photo Courtesy of Renee Sudderth

The Williams Forum for Diabetic Education and Healthcare (WFDEH), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization created this yearly affair to recognize current distinguished women in medicine and science. I was fortunate and proud to be among this elite group of physicians and scientists as a photojournalist.

Women in complex technology fields – Dr. Patricia Bennett; Dr. Elizabeth Pritchett; Splash Photojournalist/Accountant, Renee Sudderth; Dr. Barbara Gales, and Early Intervention Program CEO/Director, Constance Bryant-Berry – Photo Courtesy of Renee Sudderth

The Keynote Speaker was the Honorable Judge Glenda A. Hatchett, a world renowned authority in family law, who leads a two-time Emmy nominated nationally syndicated show. We were both impressed with the lives and achievements of these phenomenal women. In her presentation, Judge Hatchett challenged the audience to continue to support this venue possibly through education. She further offered insight into her own love for math and science and letting us know that at the end of her high school career she was accepted at the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology but instead chose another educational path.

The Honorable Judge Glenda A. Hatchett enjoying the evening – Photo Courtesy of Renee Sudderth

Credit can be given to the director of this event, Dr. Patricia Williams Bennett, her trustees and devoted friends. Dr. Bennett is a Podiatric Surgeon with an extensive background in clinical trials and research who had the vision for this event. Dr. Bennett’s career includes both domestic and international clinical research management at multibillion dollar global pharmaceutical companies where she originated clinical protocol designs for current pharmaceutical market leaders.

Dr. Patricia Bennett, the creator of this event hard at work at the Wound Care Center at Newark Beth-Israel Hospital in New Jersey- Photo Courtesy of Dina Merletti, Medical Assistant

She is a global expert on complications of the diabetic foot and has lectured both nationally and internationally (including Cuba) on this topic. Dr. Bennett also serves on the Advisory Board of the School of Community Health and Wellness at her Alma mater, Morgan State University. She is also a graduate of Atlanta University and the New York College of Podiatric Medicine.

Dr. Bennett is involved in using some of the latest high-tech procedures for limb salvage including hyperbaric medicine and the use of bioengineered tissue. Through her nonprofit organization, The Williams Forum for Diabetic Education And Healthcare (WFDEH) williamsdiabetesforum focuses on healthcare disparities in underserved communities and mentoring in healthcare and scientific disciplines. Her vision for this annual fund-raising gala is to celebrate the lives and achievements of many women in medicine and science who are saving lives and making scientific contributions to the world daily; yet they are unknown to the general population. She wanted them to be seen and heard on the world’s platform and to be recognized as the newest “Hidden Figures”.

Dr. Patricia Bennett’s vision for this event was amazing while Sharon Bomar, Program Assistant is seated – Photo Courtesy of Renee Sudderth

Dr. Bennett graced the podium with class and was proud to present the Honorees for 2018. She was able to host and be the Mistress of Ceremony for the “Hidden Figures” Gala 2018. Next year, the tentative location for this event will be New York City. The 2018 “Hidden Figures” honorees were:

Loretta Hicks, MD, MBA; United States Navy (Retired) Aviation Medical Officer has a private practice specializing in Family Medicine in Atlanta, GA. She provides compassionate, outpatient care to military retirees and their dependents even after her retirement from the United States Navy. She trains doctors in other military programs and Veteran Affairs (VA).

Dr. Loretta Hicks – Photo Courtesy of Renee Sudderth

Ayanna MacCalla Howard, PhD (not present) – Chair, Interactive Engineering, Georgia Tech University, Technology, Roboticist. In the robotics age, a robot can safely perform procedures more accurately and precisely than done manually by surgeons. These procedures minimize bleeding while resulting in a quicker recovery.

Barbara Gales, MD, MPH is Medical Director Compensation and Pensions; Director Department of Rehabilitative Medicine Veteran Affairs Hospital in Spokane Washington specializing in Occupational Medicine and Rehabilitation Medicine and Internal Medicine. She received a BA degree in Biochemistry from Cornell University and an MD in Mexico. Currently she performs extensive detailed physical examinations of veterans with complex disabilities such as respiratory impairments, traumatic brain injuries, and poly-traumatic injuries. Dr. Gales is a master motivator and has an extensive 40-year history of mentoring those seeking scientific and medical careers.

Dr. Barbara Gales and her honors – flowers to all honorees donated by Ms. Joann Allen – Photo Courtesy of Renee Sudderth

Cheryl T. Gomillion, PhD is a Chemical, Material & Biomedical Tissue Engineer at the University of Georgia, Athens, GA. Part of her role involves developing bioengineered tissue (skin substitute) to be used in plastic and reconstructive procedures. Bioengineered tissue may be used to repair various types of catastrophic wounds such as gunshot wounds, burns and uclers. Also, Dr. Gomillion has developed a new interactive lab course for Biological Engineering Senior Capstone Design in which she mentors younger generations who will be making the next significant impact in the medical STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) fields.

Dr. Cheryl T. Gomillion receiving her honor from Dr. Patricia Bennett – Photo Courtesy of Renee Sudderth

Stephanie Miles-Richardson, DVM, PhD, Professor, Community Health & Preventive Medicine, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA. A dual doctorate which includes a degree in Veterinarian Medicine and a PhD in Pathology and Environmental Toxicology. She also helps students enter the STEM career fields and coordinates activities with the Center for Disease Control (CDC). Dr. Richardson is a Commissioned Officer who served as Assistant Director of Minority Health Policy at CDC and also worked within the Toxic Substances and Disease Registry division.

Dr. Stephanie Miles-Richardson speaks after Dr. Reuben Warren introduces her while Dr. Patricia Bennett looks on – Photo Courtesy of Renee Sudderth

Sarah Y. Vinson, MD, Psychiatrist Lorio-Psych Group Triple Board Certified Children & Adolescent, Adult & Forensic Psychiatry, Atlanta, GA – who provides expert care such as psychotherapy, consultation and psychotherapy in mental health, and is the founder and Senior Editor of OurselvesBlack, the website and magazine. Ourselves Black was created as a platform for discussion about Black mental health.

Dr. Sarah Y. Vinson – Photo Courtesy of Renee Sudderth

Judy Greenlea-Taylor, DDS, MPH is a practicing dentist in Union City, GA. She was the 92nd President of the National Dental Association and has over 25 years of service and dedication to her dental profession. Dr. Taylor is the Dental Director for CareSource, the only nonprofit coordinated care plan, to serve Medicaid and PeachCare for Kids, members in Georgia. She was appointed by the Georgia Governor to the Georgia Board of Public Health in 2013 and reappointed in 2015.

Dr. Judy Greenlea-Taylor – Photo Courtesy of Renee Sudderth

After the award presentations were completed, a very special guest and a great surprise for Dr. Bennett and others in the audience was revealed. It was the world renowned, electric violinist, Ken Ford, who captivated the audience with his unique, artistic skills and style. Mr. Ford used his musical skills to mesmerize and entertain a totally attentive audience. All eyes were focused on his performance. He was unbelievable and fascinating.

Ken Ford, “The King of Strings” electric violinist impressing and surprising Dr. Bennett – Photo Courtesy of Renee Sudderth

Ken Ford, the highly professional violinist showing his artistic skills – Photo Courtesy of Renee Sudderth

Ultimately, Judge Hatchett rendered a magnificent, motivational and inspirational speech. Though, she may be in the law profession, she spoke of her love of Mathematics. She said she was so impressed with the phenomenal cadre of achievers and charged those in the audience to continue to support and disseminate information to students and others regarding this event and its focus on these precious “Hidden Figures”.

Honorable Judge Hatchett being entertained by Ken Ford – Photo Courtesy of Renee Sudderth

Dr. Patricia Bennett presenting the Distinguish Humanity Award to the Honorable Judge Glenda A. Hatchett while Michael Gonzales, Board Certified Advanced Nurse Practitioner enjoys the excitement – Photo Courtesy of Renee Sudderth

So, next time, when you think of the new current technology, think of these intriguing, outstanding women in medicine and science. These women were born to change the world with their brilliance, knowledge and skills and are saving lives and changing the world.

Dr. Cheryl T. Gomillion thanking everyone – Photo Courtesy of Renee Sudderth
Dr. Sarah Y. Vinson, Margaret Slade Kelley, the legendary artist who displayed and sold many of her art pieces, and Dr. Cheryl T. Gomillion – Photo Courtesy of Margaret Slade Kelley
“Amazing Grace” Margaret Slade Kelley, world renowned artist, known for her colorful, motivational, inspirational and bold art work – margaretsladekelley – Photo Courtesy of Dr. Patricia Bennett’s private collection of her signed framed picture from Margaret Slade Kelley

We thank Dr. Patricia Williams Bennett for her foresight and for being a “Hidden Figure”, while also acknowledging others in this category. She made us aware of the importance of education and technology in saving and preserving lives and giving a voice and a platform to previously unknown women in medicine and science known as “Hidden Figures”.

The 2019 gala is projected to take place in New York City, so we will see you there. The organization sincerely welcomes any philanthropic, sponsorship, support or donations which are the sole funding sources for this unique foundation.

Dr. Patricia Bennett saying, “See you in New York City for the 3rd Annual Hidden Figures Gala 2019 in November” – Photo Courtesy of Dr. Patricia Bennett

16 Comments

  1. CONNIE BRYANT-BERRY – Nov 29, 2018 – Via TEXT to Dr. Patricia Bennett – The article is awesome Kudos to you and cousin Renee (Sudderth) In the article/photos, thanks for the web link and exposure to my business helping the children.

  2. Dr. Bennett-Beautiful event,congratulations to you and all the time invested to make it a great success.Thank you for taking time to honor the Hidden Figures and introducing them to those of us who would never know who they are. Continue to do this mission God has charge you do with the many other hats he have blessed you to wear.

  3. Awesome work Renee and life’s opportunities to engage and support what you love without interruption…Sissy Ferguson

  4. BRIAN K. PATTERSON – Nov 28, 2018 – Via FACEBOOK – Yes thanks to those women! I have been employed in the Aerospace Industry for 35 years. Thank you for being the pioneers for change! I also stand for them in my present case against a fortune 500 company because they stood when it was so very hard to stand! Thank you!!! (Bouquet of red beautiful flowers shown on Facebook)

  5. What a phenomenal, glamorous and historical event celebrating the life and legacies of the current 2018 “Hidden Figures Honorees” and those who preceded us. These extraordinary women are quietly saving lives and limbs daily while representing women at the highest level. They all started their careers in the basic science disciplines i.e., biochemistry and biology. Some branched off into medical fields while others remained in pure scientific arenas; using those brilliant minds to change the future. The stories of the past, present and future “Hidden Figures” must continue to be immortalized in various media. We salute our past and look to the future. CONGRATULATIONS!

    • I am hardly ever at a loss for words, viewing some of the gala and guests has left me speechless. Moreover, the amazing Mr.Ford.

  6. CONNIE BRYANT-BERRY – Nov 28, 2018- Via EMAIL – Kudos to the Black women of Science who were honored at the “Hidden Figures Gala” in Atlanta, Georgia last month. I was pleased to have been invited to pay tribute to my very special Hidden Figures friends, Dr. Barbara Gales and my dear friend, Dr. Bennett. Judge Hatchett gave an all inspiring unforgettable tribute to our heroines! Special Thanks to Renee Sudderth from Splash Magazine for her phenomenal photographer’s talent and editorial support! You’re the best!……Constance Bryant, Advanced Masters in Administration and Supervision in Spec. Ed/TSHH CISS LLC, CEO/Early Intervention Director

  7. DR. LORETTA HICKS MD, FAAFP, MBA – Nov 28, 2018 – Via EMAIL to Dr. Patricia Bennett –
    Thank you so much! This is wonderful and fitting for the outstanding program that you produced.

  8. MICHAEL G. – Nov 28, 2018 – Via EMAIL to Dr. Patricia Bennett – Wow that was an amazing event! The magazine looks spectacular. I am very impressed, and lucky we lucked up on someone that was there to take the photos to create such wonderful moments. I am looking forward to New York 2019! Maybe Auntie Maxine Waters can join us HAHA!

  9. DR. BARBARA GALES – Nov 28, 2018 – Via EMAIL – Renee you are so awesome. Thank you, I am truly honored your talent has brought us out and I am most grateful to you for all your hard work.

  10. SHARON BOMAR – Nov 28, 2018 – Via TEXT – Very informative article!!! Hats off to your dream Dr. Patricia Bennett for being realized. It was my pleasure to support your event.

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