Helping Tell the Story

 Johnny Higdon, President of the Atlanta Chapter of the National Montford Point Marine Association, Inc., exemplifies a life dedicated to service, leadership, and community engagement. A proud veteran, Johnny's journey began in Thomasville, Georgia, and led him to an illustrious 30-year career in the U.S. Marine Corps, culminating in his role as the Installation Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Logistics Base in Albany, Georgia. His military tenure was marked by diverse global experiences and significant leadership roles, shaping him into a dynamic leader and team-builder. 

 David B. White is an Independent Creative Producer based in Sugar Hill, Georgia. A recent graduate of the University of Georgia's Master's program in Film, Television, and Digital Media, he has produced four short films and directed two, bringing a strong passion for collaborative storytelling and project success. A retired United States Marine with 20 years of honorable service, David now channels his leadership and dedication into creative arts. He is married to Mrs. Shanay S. White,  and together they are proud parents of three children 

Willie Cordy Jr. is an award-winning illustrator, animator, and creative director, as well as an adjunct professor of Digital Media Arts at Clark Atlanta University, the University of West Georgia, and Regent University. A former Lead Media Arts & Animation professor at the Art Institute of Atlanta and Virginia Beach. He has worked across animation, film, comics, children's books, fashion, and graphic design.

A Norfolk State University graduate with two master's degrees, Cordy is also a recognized presenter on Black representation in comics and a celebrated community advocate in Hampton Roads, Virginia. His artwork has appeared in multiple galleries and museums, including permanent placement in the Singletary African Art Gallery & Museum. He is the Creator and CEO of Cordy Studio.

 Quincy McClellan is a 2D Animator. Quincy has been professionally animating for the last 5 years. Collaborating on several award-winning projects with other creatives in the United States has given him so many opportunities in the animation industry. Making Quincy's directorial debut in 2025 on the animated short film "Wolf-Slayer" has only inspired Quincy to create more stories centered around individuals who overcome any obstacle that they are faced with. 

 Hello! My name is Katie Goard, and I am a passionate 3D Animator. I grew up in Michigan, but I'm definitely enjoying the warm weather in Savannah, Georgia, where I'm currently studying at the Savannah College of Art and Design. I'm always coming up with ideas for new, exciting projects. There's no better feeling than seeing an idea come to life and engage positively with audiences. Animation allows me to express myself creatively and tell stories that I'm excited about!  

 Michael Sowinski is a composer, clarinetist, and executive producer whose career spans music, film, and finance. A Berklee College of Music graduate, he has released orchestral and piano works with wide audiences, scored award-winning films, and invested in major productions including The Mauritanian and Taken Away. Founder of Blue Ridge Media Capital LLC, he continues to create new works and support film and TV projects worldwide. 

 Madyun Shahid is an accomplished actor, narrator, and historian with over 30 years of experience bringing powerful stories to life on stage, on screen, and through voice. As the Founder and CEO of Hidden Voices, LLC, he is especially passionate about first-person narration, using his voice to embody the lived experiences of African American history, military service, and overlooked legacies. A graduate of the Northside School of Performing Arts in Atlanta, Madyun has performed and narrated for audiences ranging from theatergoers to United States Marines, including work with the National Montford Point Marines Association Inc. and national veterans organizations. He has appeared in state productions across the United States and internationally, while also lending his narration talents to museum projects, conventions, and military training media. Madyun most enjoys acting and first-person storytelling because they allow him to step fully into another life, connect emotionally with audiences, and ensure that history is not just told, but felt. 

 Cecil Archbold is a dynamic, in-demand voice actor known for his powerful yet inviting sound. With a range that moves from confident and authoritative to warm and conversational, he's voiced projects for major brands like Johnson & Johnson, Subway, Cub Cadet, and the Ohio Lottery. Cecil brings professionalism, heart, and top-tier storytelling to every script, making him a trusted voice for commercials, corporate videos, eLearning, and more. Supporting his journey as he continues creating impactful, memorable work.