Board of Directors

Below, you can get to know the Board of Directors of The KIS Foundation that are making a difference in the world of Sickle Cell Disease.

 

André Dawson

KISF Board President

Mercedes-Benz of Beverly Hills

Jo-An Turman

KISF Board Vice President

Head of Global Entertainment Partnerships for Habitat for Humanity

Deon Reid

KISF Board Treasurer

I’ve had my own business, Assist Design, for the past 35 years and I’ve had to do my own planning fundraising, hiring vendors and evaluating personal, as well as, catering to customers and providing great customer service. My biggest strength is excellent customer service. My company specializes in Graphic Design Printing and Promotional Marketing. My customer base is 100% Community College Programs that have a need for promotional items for students.

Two years ago Harold Hawk Hunt invited me to a KIS Foundation Community Event as a volunteer. I enjoyed myself. I enjoyed working with the team and I LOVE helping people.

And now moving forward I’ve discovered the purpose of the Foundation and want to help spread the word and support the programs. 

Sheila Gilmore

KISF Board Secretary

President, Gilmore Group

Cynthia Mitchell-Heard

President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Los Angeles Urban League.

Cynthia Mitchell‑Heard is the first woman to lead the Los Angeles Urban League in over 90 years. With 25 years of experience in nonprofit and social impact leadership, she has championed racial equity, economic empowerment, and community resilience through innovative programs and strategic partnerships. She serves on multiple boards and continues to drive transformative change for underserved communities.

Harold Hunt

Marketing Consultant LA County

Babe Evans

Children’s Advocate, Los Angeles, CA

Claire Padmore-Clarke, MBA

I am an experienced professional at a leading Beverage company, with deep expertise in leadership, compliance, and organizational change management. Known for resolving challenges and driving process improvements, I am committed to advancing inclusion through 21 years of Employee Resource Group leadership, championing “A Space to be YOU” for all. Outside of work, I’m involved in initiatives that support job preparedness and food insecurity and serve on the Boards of the YMCA of Anaheim and The KIS Foundation. I believe in the power of education and small, meaningful actions to create lasting, positive impact.

Byron Scott

CHAMPION, COACH, CHANGEMAKER

Byron Scott is a legendary figure in the world of basketball and beyond. As a cornerstone of the iconic “Showtime” Los Angeles Lakers, he earned three NBA Championship titles and later distinguished himself as NBA Head Coach of the Year. His deep understanding of the game continues to resonate through his work as a sports analyst, entrepreneur, and bestselling author.

Beyond the Court

Byron’s influence extends far beyond basketball. He is the author of Slam Dunk Success, a top-ranked bestseller in both business and sports categories, offering insights into leadership, perseverance, and winning mindsets. In 2021, he launched the acclaimed podcast Off the Dribble with Byron Scott, now in its second season, where he interviews luminaries from sports, entertainment, politics, and culture.

A passionate humanitarian, Byron is deeply committed to giving back. He supports organizations such as Feed My Poor, The Hunger Project, and Community of Friends, which serve homeless and underserved communities. Through the Byron Scott Children’s Fund, he has helped raise over $15 million for children’s charities over the past decade.

One of Byron Scott’s most heartfelt and enduring commitments is to The KIS Foundation, Inc., a leading organization dedicated to raising awareness, advocacy, and education around Sickle Cell Disease. Since 2020, the Los Angeles Lakers Legend - affectionately known as Mr. Showtime -has proudly served as The KIS Foundation’s Golf Celebrity Host and Ambassador. His unwavering support and personal advocacy continue to inspire hope, amplify their mission, and bring vital attention to a disease that disproportionately affects communities of color.

Byron is a dynamic business leader and investor, with ventures spanning health, food, fashion, and real estate. He is co-founder and stakeholder in My Protect Kit, Medizio Scrubs, Ethel’s Baking Company, FreshPet, and College Student Housing. His latest endeavor, Primetime Basketball, is a professional league poised to redefine the game for a new generation.

Von Gretchen Shepard

Executive Director of The KIS Foundation, Inc.

Vaughn Williams

Principal Supplier / Diversity Advisor

SoCalGas Company