Inspire Her: Radio One Baltimore Honors Dynamic Women Across the Region

Source: Radio One Digital / Airiel B.

In celebration of Women’s History Month, Radio One Baltimore is shining a spotlight on extraordinary women who are making a difference in the Greater Baltimore region. The annual “Inspire Her” event recognizes trailblazers, leaders, and changemakers who are driving progress in their communities, industries, and beyond.

From educators and entrepreneurs to healthcare professionals and social justice advocates, these women exemplify resilience, passion, and dedication. Their impact extends beyond personal achievements, influencing lives, and inspiring future generations. Through on-air tributes, digital features, and a prestigious awards ceremony, Radio One Baltimore is amplifying their voices and contributions.

These honorees embody the essence of strength, leadership, and community empowerment, proving that every effort—big or small—contributes to meaningful change.

Radio One Baltimore continues to be a driving force in celebrating diversity and elevating voices that shape the city’s future. The “Inspire Her” initiative is more than an event—it’s a movement, encouraging all to acknowledge and support the women who uplift Baltimore daily.

Join the celebration and be part of honoring the women who inspire, lead, and transform the community! Keep scrolling to find out more and check back every week for a new highlight!

1. Nesley Duppins

2. THOMASINA BOARDLEY

Thomasina Boardley is the Director of New Student Experiences and Student Engagement in the Division of Enrollment Management and Student Affairs at Bowie State University. Thomasina oversees New Student Orientation, Campus Tours, Greek Life and Community Service, Multicultural Programs and Civic Engagement, and she serves as the primary advisor to the Student Government Association (SGA), Campus Activities Board (CAB) as well as Mister and Miss Bowie State University and the Royal Court. Thomasina has worked at Bowie State University since August of 2008. She started as the Athletics Academic Counselor and became the Compliance Officer in January of 2010. After working in the Department of Athletics for 2 years, she began her career in Student Affairs as the Coordinator of Student Conduct.

Thomasina has a passion for helping others, working with students and cheerleading. She has served as both a collegiate and professional cheerleader for her alma mater the University of Maryland Eastern Shore and the Atlanta Falcons. Currently, Thomasina, affectionately known as Coach T, is the proud head cheerleading coach of the Bowie State University Cheerleaders, also known as the Golden Girls and Golden Gents since 2006.

Prior to her arrival at Bowie State University, she was a Special Educator with Howard County and Prince George’s County Public School Systems in Maryland. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Special Education from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, where she was involved in Cheerleading, Softball, Student Government Association and reigned as Miss University of Maryland Eastern Shore 1994-1995.

Coach T loves people! She enjoys speaking with everyone, meeting new people, and sports, especially cheerleading and softball. She also loves having fun with students at Bowie State University. Her energy and upbeat personality are unmatched and highly infectious among those who engage with her, leaving a lasting and positive impression.

All the positions she has worked at BSU give her the opportunity to mentor, encourage and motivate students. She wants to make a positive impact in the lives of others whether it is students, faculty or staff. Thomasina loves what she does and regardless of what the day may bring, there is not one day she would not shout Aye, Aye, Aye, Ayeeee BOWIE!

3. Robyn Murphy

Currently serving as the Interim CEO of The Baltimore Office of Promotion & The Arts (BOPA), Robyn Murphy has an accomplished background in communications and strategic partnerships

She owns Maryland-based JRM Consultancy, which manages messaging and stewards relationships for organizations seeking to center diverse and inclusive partnerships and community upbuilding as pillars for success. She also owns and operates Murphy Enterprise with her husband Jason, who is a retired NFL offensive lineman. In 2023, Baltimore City’s Office of Equity and Civil Rights honored Robyn and Jason Murphy for centering economic equity in their company’s values and supporting returning citizens.

Murphy established these businesses after a career in journalism, reporting and hosting for NBC network affiliates. She became the first female sports reporter at two news outlets, the first woman sports columnist for the Afro-American Newspaper, and she’s been an on-air host of BETs election coverage and moderator for the network’s nationally televised political and social justice panels. Murphy has also written award-winning features & essays for several national publications including Vibe and Newsweek.

Murphy is the co-host of the annual Women’s Economic Empowerment Brunch hosted by Maryland First Lady Dawn Moore. She also serves on the Steering Committee for the 2025 Preakness Festival; the Board of Trustees for the Baltimore Leadership School for Young Women; the Advisory Council of the Black Leadership Circle; the Mayor’s Arts & Culture Advisory Committee; and the Governor’s Jobs, and Workforce Advisory Committee and is the Chair of BOPA’s Board of Directors. She has been a member of the Greater Baltimore Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. for 18 years.

Now, in her newest role, Murphy is actively engaging with BOPA’s leadership and board, as well as community stakeholders and senior members of Mayor Brandon Scott’s administration to strengthen the relationship with the city and the broader arts community.

4. Jennifer Wicks

Jennifer Wicks is a visionary leader, dedicated advocate, and powerhouse in nonprofit development. As the Vice President of Development at the Greater Baltimore Urban League (GBUL), she is at the forefront of expanding opportunities, building partnerships, and securing critical funding to support GBUL’s mission in education, workforce development, entrepreneurship, and advocacy. Her work strengthens programs that uplift Baltimore’s communities, creating pathways to success for those who need it most. Beyond her role at GBUL, Jennifer is a fierce advocate for women and underserved communities. She is an active member of the National Council of Negro Women, Greater Baltimore Section, and has been involved with the Urban League’s Young Professionals auxiliary since 2018, previously serving as Executive Vice President. She is deeply committed to ensuring that voices are heard, resources are accessible, and change is real. Jennifer is also a trailblazer in real estate and development. As the Founder and CEO of Aventurine Developers, she is transforming the housing market in Maryland, championing safe, affordable, and sustainable housing while helping residential investors navigate the complexities of real estate. A proud HBCU graduate, Jennifer earned her Bachelor’s degree in Strategic Communications from Morgan State University. She is also nearing completion of her Master’s degree in Nonprofit Administration, further enhancing the skills she brings to her leadership, strategy, and mission-driven work. At her core, Jennifer is a storyteller, philanthropist, and advocate. Her expertise in strategic communication has strengthened biomedical research outreach for women and underrepresented groups, ensuring that critical health and science narratives reach those who have historically been overlooked and underserved. Through it all, Jennifer remains deeply committed to service, equity, and impact—working every day to build a stronger, more inclusive Baltimore and set a national standard for what true community transformation looks like.