Mission: To empower, uplift, and expand opportunities through Math for all communities.
Technology | Engineering | Advocacy | Math
Kimlin C. Johnson, CEO & Board Chair
Kimlin Johnson, founder of B-RELYT, stands out as a leader dedicated to creating a significant positive change in America. This commitment is evident not only in her leadership of B-RELYT but also in her influential book, "Authenticity, Accountability & Ambitions" (AAA), which was published in August 2018.
Before founding B-RELYT in 2017, Kimlin had a remarkable 25-year career at the Los Angeles County Sanitation District (LACSD) in Environmental Engineering. Her time at LACSD was characterized by her innovative contributions, particularly in developing and implementing enduring policies and procedures. These contributions have left a lasting impact, demonstrating her professional acumen and dedication to effective environmental management.
Kimlin's true passion, however, lies in her work with B-RELYT. Under her guidance, B-RELYT has not only consistently pursued its foundational mission but also aims for greater achievements in the future. This vision is made possible through the support of an incredible Board and the generous contributions of both current and prospective donors, ensuring the organization's growth and reach.
A key aspect of Kimlin's ethos is captured in her favorite quote by Rodney King: "Can't We All Just Get Along?" This sentiment deeply influences her approach in both her professional endeavors and personal interactions, highlighting the importance of harmony, understanding, and collaborative effort. These values are fundamental to societal advancement and personal growth.
BMC's Corporate Advisory Board
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Dr. Darin Gray, Director of the USC Viterbi K-12 STEM Center
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Dr. Steven Palmer, CEO of Present Mind Counseling and Coaching(PMCC)
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Tom Wingard, Partner Alston & Bird
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Michael DeGuzman, St. Bernard College Prepatory High School
Board Of Directors
Stan L. Johnson
Stanley (Stan) has over 25 years experience as a licensed Electrical Engineer. His goal is also to empower young people with STEM knowledge and life skills based on his experience and background. Stan worked throughout the entire COVID-19 Pandemic leading a team of Engineer's.
Growing up in Compton, California, from a working-class family, he faced many obstacles in his life’s journey. However, through self-improvement, he overcame many of these obstacles to become the successful Black professional that he is today.
Stan's motto is: “Be a better person today than you were yesterday, and be a better person tomorrow than you are today!”
Edward Rice III, Ed.D.
Dr. Ed Rice is a seasoned educator and journalist. As an educator, he has taught at the elementary, secondary and postsecondary levels. He has served as a faculty member at Los Angeles City College, Moreno Valley College and currently holds a faculty position with the CalStateTEACH program. In 2024, after nearly 20 years Ed left the classroom and is now the Associate Dean of Humanities at El Camino College in Torrance, CA. Ed completed his dissertation, A Qualitative Examination of Postsecondary Education as a Remedy to Recidivism Among Formerly Incarcerated African-American Men and received his doctorate in Higher Education Administration from the University of Southern California (USC) in 2018.Ed is also an experienced journalist, and his work has been featured in the Orange County Register, The Source and Vibe Magazines. From 2013-2015 he served as a Contributing Editor for the Los Angeles Sentinel newspaper. Ed recently added author to his resume in 2023 with the publication of his first children’s book, “Cosmic Granny, A Score to Settle.”
Marvin Lawton
Marvin Lawton is a consummate Renaissance Man. By day, he is committed to serving the community and empowering urban youth to be their best authentic selves. He has been in the field of education for over 25 years as a Math teacher, tutor, learning director, instructional coach and school administrator. Recently, he served as Senior Vice President for the largest and oldest Black Community based nonprofit in Los Angeles, CA. Currently, he is the Principal for Learning by Design K-5 Charter School.
However, at night his passion is being a singer and accomplished musician. He worked on several musical projects and albums, and is currently working on a solo smooth jazz album. In addition to being both a musical and performing artist, Marvin is also a published author. He recently completed a trilogy of romantic devotionals, and is currently working on a nonfiction novel expounding upon the experiences of Black Male fathers and the impacts their roles have had in both the triumphs as well as the challenges within the Black urban communities.
He believes that both the Sciences as well as the Arts can work in tandem to help young people be successful in life. In particular, the problem-solving skills attained and acquired from Mathematics can be applied in everyday life. Learning Mathematics in and of itself is an artform, and is an invaluable skill set that young people need to compete in today's economy; especially in context of educating Black urban youth.
Mary Bassey
Mary Bassey is a scientist, entrepreneur, and educator with a deep commitment to equity in STEM. A current graduate student in psychology at Harvard University Extension School, she brings over 18 years of experience in tutoring, test preparation, and cognitive learning strategy. Mary is the founder of Tutoring With Mary, an academic support service that blends rigorous instruction with executive function coaching in STEM subjects and beyond.