Talk: The Power of Media to Shape Who We Are

The average American now consumes 11 hours of media each day. What we consume and how we consume media has the power to shape our everyday lives and determine our view of the world and what we value in life. Unbiased media is a thing of the past, but what are the ramifications of that? Conflict and click-throughs are profitable. Billions are spent to get us hooked on content and it’s working. Learn how to live in a digital world in a mindful way that adds to your life vs consuming it.

About Charlie

Charlie Clark is a public relations executive, writer, business & community advocate who serves in the high profile role of Vice President of Communications of the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Visitor & Convention Bureau. With over two decades of experience in public relations and media, Charlie has successfully garnered coverage for Hilton Head Island in the Wall Street Journal, The Today Show, Travel+Leisure, Food Network, and numerous other national media outlets. She has a passion for the place we call home and sharing it with travelers from around the world. Prior to her work in PR, she also worked in the world of advertising with powerhouse firms BBDO and Tracey-Locke/Los Angeles. Her “behind the curtain” perspective into the world of media relations gives her a thought-provoking take on how media shapes us and our society.

Talk: The Power of Radical Empathy

Dr. Tonya M. Matthews is an influential figure in social entrepreneurship, equity strategy, and the convergence of formal and informal education. With a unique background in poetry and engineering, she is a sought-after visionary for community projects and boards, and dynamic speaker across age groups and sectors. Dr. Matthews currently serves as President and CEO of the International African American Museum, elevating its mission of authentic and empathetic telling of African American history as a thoughtful and critical challenge to institutional racism.

Dr. Matthews brings her “pre-K through gray” education philosophy and deep commitment to lifelong learning and empathy building to every role. Her impactful journey includes leadership positions at Wayne State University and the Michigan Science Center. She founded The STEMinista Project and STEMinista Rising to empower girls and women in STEM fields. Recognized for her community dedication, she’s served on prestigious boards and advised Fortune 500 companies on diversity and inclusion. An author and poet, Dr. Matthews holds a Ph.D. in biomedical engineering from Johns Hopkins University and a B.S.E. from Duke University. She is a native of Washington, D.C. and is known for planting roots on the side of town best for keeping an eye on progress.