Who we are
The Black Male EDquity Network (BMEN) is a distinguished collective of Black male doctors and doctoral students redefining excellence and equity in education. Fueled by a commitment to addressing the glaring underrepresentation of Black men in doctoral programs, BMEN emerged in 2020 during a pivotal moment in history. Five visionary leaders united, turning a shared purpose into a powerful movement of empowerment and transformation.
At BMEN, we deliver high-impact solutions that bridge education and community. Our work spans rigorous research, strategic consulting for nonprofits and schools, and the development of culturally responsive curriculums that challenge traditional boundaries. We don’t just design workshops—we create experiences that inspire action and spark innovation.
Our nonprofit initiatives extend beyond education to address systemic inequities within Black communities. With a focus on empowering boys of color and their families, we offer scholarships, professional development opportunities, and holistic support systems. From advancing academic pathways to redefining community impact, BMEN is where bold ideas meet purposeful action.
BMEN is more than a network—it’s a movement. We are scholars, innovators, and changemakers committed to reshaping the narrative of Black excellence. If you’re ready to partner with leaders who bring vision, strategy, and results to the table, BMEN is the team to help you make an impact.
Meet the Founders
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Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Louisville
Dr. Whetstone has been an educator in higher education since the age of 25, teaching a diverse range of students aged 16 to 80+ from around the world. His expertise spans topics such as professional development, public speaking, research methods, conflict management, diversity in the workplace, project management, healthcare leadership, and more.
As the co-founder of the Black Male EDquity Network (BMEN), Dr. Whetstone supports Black male doctoral students through a network of professionals and educators. He co-developed the curriculum Emerging Generations Z & A: The Youth Development Phenomenon, implemented in K-12 schools and community centers to support youth development.
A Louisville, KY native, Dr. Whetstone earned his bachelor's degree in Sport Administration from the University of Louisville, a master’s in Leadership from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, and a Doctor of Education in Leadership from Spalding University.
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Vice President of Engagement and Outcomes at Russell Innovation Center for EntrepreneursDr. Malcolm Muhammad is a dynamic leader, scholar, and practitioner dedicated to fostering thriving entrepreneurial ecosystems. As Vice President of Engagement and Outcomes at the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs, Dr. Muhammad champions the development of environments that empower entrepreneurs to cultivate and scale their business ideas.
His research delves deeply into the impact of entrepreneurial communities, exploring how these ecosystems fuel innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth. This passion is reflected not only in his academic pursuits and teaching but also in his hands-on experience with his family business and community-driven initiatives.
Dr. Muhammad’s mission is to bridge research and practice, leveraging the power of entrepreneurial networks to unlock potential and create lasting impact.
Connect with Malcolm
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Vice President of Community Engagement and University Relations at the University of Louisville
Dr. Douglas Craddock Jr. serves as the Vice President of Community Engagement and University Relations at the University of Louisville. In this role, he is dedicated to building and expanding the university’s community partnerships and enhancing the quality of life and economic opportunities for residents of west Louisville through the Signature Partnership initiative.
Dr. Craddock oversees various programs, including Cards Come Together, TRIO, Upward Bound, and the Annual Engaged Scholarship Symposium. With a strong background in education and administration, Dr. Craddock has held positions such as Chief of Staff to the Executive Vice President and University Provost at UofL.
He is also a founder of the Black Male EDquity Network (B.M.E.N.), which aims to create a pipeline of Black male terminal degree holders. Dr. Craddock holds a bachelor’s and doctoral degree from the University of Alabama and a master’s degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
Connect with Doug:
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Outpatient Clinical Therapist
Jerron Jones is a native of Louisville, Kentucky, primarily growing up in the West End of Louisville. Jerron asserts himself as a change agent, but more specifically a catalyst for identifying equitable resources throughout the community for young Black scholars (men).
Jerron is an Outpatient Clinical Therapist for a local non- for-profit agency in Louisville, KY, specializing in providing therapeutic services for families impacted by Autism and an array of intellectual diagnoses. Jerron is currently writing his dissertation for doctoral candidacy at Bellarmine University (Leadership in Higher Education). Jerron’s dissertation research includes: Understanding Factors of Self-Efficacy in Black men and women in Undergraduate programs and Exploring How Institutions are Supporting Sources of Self-Efficacy.
