30th Annual Barbara Jordan National Forum – Community Conversation:
From Idle to Action
Presented by the RGK Center for Philanthropy and Community Service
From Idle to Action is a featured community conversation of the 30th Annual Barbara Jordan National Forum, grounded in Barbara Jordan’s powerful call to action: “Want to make a difference? Stop talking and start doing! Words are nice, but actions create change.” This convening reflects Jordan’s unwavering belief that meaningful progress requires courage, commitment, and tangible steps forward.
This event will feature the following speakers:
Kelenne Blake
Kelenne Blake is Executive Director of Black Mamas ATX, advancing maternal health equity through community-led advocacy. A public health doctoral student, former professor, and multidisciplinary artist, she works creatively with Black communities to disrupt inequities, amplify lived expertise, and build collective power for sustainable systems change.
Alycia Castillo
Alycia Castillo is Associate Director of Policy at the Texas Civil Rights Project, advancing justice through trauma-informed, antiracist advocacy. A former educator, she shapes statewide policy, co-founded the Finish the 5 Campaign, and serves on equity-focused boards driving systemic criminal legal reform in Texas.
Monique Parker
Monique Parker-Murchison is a dedicated leader with extensive experience in talent strategy and organizational leadership. As the Founder and Executive Director of Little Bit of Good, she advocates forsystemic change and equity, especially for Black-led nonprofits, through strategic capacity-building initiatives. Monique’s career includes leadership roles at top tech companies, where she crafted and executed people-centered strategies that enhanced representation, fostered inclusive cultures, and boosted revenue growth. Passionate about driving global change, she also promotes equitable philanthropy as a key to meaningful and sustainable impact. A mother of two daughters, serial entrepreneur, and graduate of the Executive Master in Public Leadership (EMPL) program at The University of Texas, Monique balances her professional work with a deep dedication to family and community.
Gregory Perrin
Gregory Perrin is Associate Vice President for Development at St. Edward’s University, leading major gifts and institutional advancement. A seasoned executive fundraiser, he drives community-centered philanthropy through strategic partnerships, board leadership, and values-driven donor engagement that delivers sustained organizational growth and measurable impact.
Designed to move participants beyond awareness and into action, this conversation brings together policymakers, fundraisers, executive directors, and volunteer coordinators who are actively shaping change in their communities. Panelists will share practical insights on how advocacy works in real time—how ideas become initiatives, how resources are mobilized, and how everyday people can effectively engage systems to meet pressing community needs.
This community-centered dialogue aims to inspire attendees to translate concern into impact. Participants will deepen their understanding of advocacy tools, pathways to civic engagement, and strategies for collaboration that are essential in today’s social and political landscape. Above all, From Idle to Action honors Barbara Jordan’s legacy by challenging each of us to step forward, take responsibility, and play an active role in building a more just and responsive society.