Meet the Team

Dr. Richard Watkins, an accomplished professional renowned for his extensive expertise in health, innovation, and education, has an impressive career that encompasses roles in education, administration, federal politics, and entrepreneurship. Born in Tyler, Texas, and raised in Greensboro, North Carolina, Dr. Watkins established his academic foundation at Fayetteville State University, where he majored in Psychology and minored in Sociology. His commitment to academia was complemented by his engagement in college football, demonstrating his diverse talents and interests.

Pursuing higher education, Dr. Watkins attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he earned a Ph.D. in Microbiology and Immunology. His doctoral research focused on the crucial subjects of viral pathogenicity and evolution, contributing significant insights to the field.

In his illustrious career, Dr. Watkins has accumulated over a decade of experience across various governmental levels, including municipal, county, state, and federal. His political journey is marked by his candidacies for both the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate, reflecting his deep commitment to public service and policy-making.

As the CEO of Science Policy Action Network, Inc., Dr. Watkins plays a pivotal role in facilitating impactful interactions between the scientific community and its stakeholders. His leadership is instrumental in ensuring that scientific endeavors are in harmony with societal wellbeing, advocating for the integration of innovation into public policy and community development.

As a consultant, Dr. Watkins leverages his vast knowledge in health, innovation, and education, offering strategic insights and solutions to a range of challenges. His ability to navigate complex issues at the intersection of science and society has established him as a key figure in driving sustainable and progressive changes in these fields. Dr. Watkins' unique blend of scientific expertise, policy acumen, and leadership skills positions him as an influential voice in shaping a future where scientific advancements are effectively aligned with educational and societal goals.

MK Gamble, Esq. is a dynamic attorney and policy advocate. She leverages her vast experience in policy strategy development for diverse clients. She is responsible for advocating and advancing client interests in the legislative process. This includes engaging in constructive dialogue with members of the legislature, staff, and other stakeholders. Her responsibilities include testifying before legislative committees and conferences.

MK's career highlights include her impactful role as Chicago's Public Policy Lead for Airbnb, her strategic contributions as a Legislative Liaison with the Cook County State's Attorney's Office, and her valuable insights as Assistant Counsel to the Illinois House of Representatives. Notably, she has served as the chief legal advisor for Illinois' Insurance, Housing, and Environment's Energy Committees. Her versatility extends to her time as a pharmacy prosecutor and a key contributor to the drafting of the Illinois Pharmacy Practice Act.

Beyond her legal acumen, MK has made significant strides in healthcare ethics, serving as a clinical bioethicist for prestigious institutions like the Cleveland Clinic, Case Western Reserve University Hospital, The MetroHealth System, and Northwestern Hospital Internal Review Board.

Educationally, MK Gamble boasts an impressive portfolio: a Juris Doctor from DePaul College of Law, a Master's degree in Bioethics from Case Western Reserve University, and Bachelor's degrees in International Business, Business Law, and Marketing from Indiana University. Her multifaceted expertise positions her as a formidable figure in the realms of law, policy advocacy, and bioethics.

Cassandra Stokes, a distinguished double Eagle from North Carolina Central University, holds both an undergraduate degree and a Juris Doctor. As an attorney, she has devoted her career to public service, exhibiting exemplary leadership and guidance in various professional, educational, and civic organizations.

Fueled by a deep commitment to political equity and community advocacy, Stokes has demonstrated inventive leadership in local, county, and statewide electoral campaigns, maintaining an impressive undefeated record. In her current role as the Democracy and Economy Coordinator for the NC Black Alliance, she passionately advocates for fair redistricting and democracy in Black communities, alongside focusing on election law and voter protection in North Carolina.

Stokes also plays a pivotal role in her community, serving as the Vice Chair of the Durham Mayor's Council for Women, the First Vice Chair of the Durham Democratic Party, and the Political Chair for the Durham Committee on the Affairs of Black People. A proud 2011 spring initiate of the NCCU Alpha Chi chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, she is deeply committed to relational organizing, addressing public interest issues, and fostering progressive leadership in state and local government.