Our Team
Bridgett Carter
Alfred Lacks Carter, Jr.
Founder, CEO, & World Health Organization Ambassador
Alfred Lacks Carter, Jr. is an Author, Speaker, and the grandson of Henrietta Lacks. In 2017, he expanded his portfolio to include Actor and Consultant when he acted in and advised the HBO film adaptation of his mother's quest to understand her heritage, titled The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, which received an Emmy nomination. In the film, Oprah Winfrey starred as his mother, Deborah Lacks. Alfred is committed to honoring his grandmother's life and legacy by advocating for improved healthcare for everyone.
Halle Betts, MBA, MHA
Director of Clinical Trial Recruitment/DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion)
Leads and focuses on overseeing and driving strategies for recruiting participants for clinical trials, with a particular emphasis on ensuring diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout the recruitment process. This position is essential in enhancing clinical trial representation to ensure research outcomes are applicable to diverse populations, reflecting different age groups, ethnicities, genders, and health conditions.
Dr. Karriem Watson, D.H.Sc, M.S., M.P.H
Candice Milan
Vice President of Operations,
Partnership Coordinator
Oversees daily operations, administrative departments, and program implementation. Also responsible for capacity building and establishing new partnerships at local, national, and global levels. In her free time, Candice loves experimenting with new software, honing her graphic design skills, building websites, and relaxing at the beach.
Kayla T. Moore, MPH
Director of Survey Design, Data Analysis, and Dissemination
Leads, monitors and assesses the impact of community engagement and research projects through data collection and analysis. Prepares reports and presentations to communicate the results and impact of research initiatives to stakeholders, funders, and the broader public. Ensures that findings are accessible and meaningful for the communities involved.
Tonya S. Roberson, PhD, MPH, DTR
Community Engagement Advisor
Creates and manages programs that connect diverse groups, elevate community voices, and builds community trust. With over 40 years in community engagement and health education, Bridgett has dedicated her life to enhancing social cohesion and community resilience. After a successful 36-year career with Cook County Department of Public Health, Bridgett is now a Community Engagement Consultant for CBOs. Bridgett enjoys reading, watching foreign films, live jazz and spending time with her grandsons.
Executive Director of Community Engagement, Research Design and Science
Oversees initiatives that integrate community involvement, research and research methodologies, and scientific endeavors within HeLa House. Plays a crucial part in ensuring that research is not only scientifically sound but also deeply rooted in the needs and concerns of the communities being studied. Dr. Tonya is our bridge between research and the people it aims to serve, helping to foster collaboration, trust, and positive outcomes.
Bridgett Carter
Community Engagement Advisor
Creates and manages programs that connect diverse groups, elevate community voices, and builds community trust. With over 40 years in community engagement and health education, Bridgett has dedicated her life to enhancing social cohesion and community resilience. After a successful 36-year career with Cook County Department of Public Health, Bridgett is now a Community Engagement Consultant for CBOs. Bridgett enjoys reading, watching foreign films, live jazz and spending time with her grandsons.