First row, L–R: Juan Garrett (Executive Director, Riverside Center for Innovation); Annia Aleman, (Associate Director, IEE); Roberto Carlos Bellido Diaz. Second row, L–R: Clinton Valentine; Lisbeth Dmitrieva; Tyleda Worou; Nicole Hudson (Director, Strategic Opportunities and Connections, IEE); Bob Stein (Executive Director, IEE). Third row, L–R: Derrick Clements, Jr.; Deon Nalley-Stoddard. Not pictured: Wilson Nova Ruiz, Michael Revis, Tamar Warfield, and Rhonda Carson Leach (Sr. Program Manager, Urban & Community Entrepreneurship Program, IEE).
On June 18, 2025, the University of Pittsburgh Community Engagement Center in Homewood hosted the graduation ceremony for the 22nd cohort of the BizFIT–Community Power to Prosper program. The event celebrated the achievements of nine entrepreneurs who completed the intensive program designed to empower small business owners and foster community economic development.
The graduates were recognized for their dedication and hard work. Each brought unique skills and perspectives to the program, contributing to a vibrant cohort focused on driving economic growth within their communities. The nine graduates Roberto Carlos Bellido Diaz (Ignis Technology, Inc.), Derrick Clements, Jr. (D Clem), Lisbeth Dmitrieva (PGH Home Improvement), Deon Nalley-Stoddard (Nalley-Stoddard 6 Visions), Michael Revis (R and Revis Construction), Wilson Nova Ruiz (Crop Meal Technologies), Clinton Valentine (Valentine Landscaping), Tamar Warfield (Coop and Hall Construction), and Tyleda Worou (360 Notary & Signing Service).
Curtis Brown, a serial entrepreneur and owner of FloorStock, delivered words of wisdom during a keynote address. As a graduate of the Community Power to Prosper class of 2024, Curtis shared his journey and experiences in business, offering valuable insights and encouragement to the new graduates. His speech emphasized the importance of resilience, innovation, and community support in building a thriving business.
Tammy Warfield of Coop and Hall Construction spoke about what participating in the program meant to her:
“…Beyond the technical knowledge, the Community Power to Prosper program has deeply motivated me. It reminds me that I’m not just building a construction company, but I’m also building a legacy. It helped me see the value as being a leader in a black woman-owned construction company, and to be a changemaker in the community. It gave me the tools and structure, and most importantly, the confidence to take bold steps and expand my business.“
— Tammy Warfield, Coop and Hall Construction
Tyleda Worou of 360 Notary and Signing Service expressed gratitude for how much the program and her fellow classmates have helped her:
“Community Power to Prosper has given me the tools and the confidence to strengthen 360 Notary and Signing Service by focusing on financial goals, planning credit readiness, and growth strategies. And I also learned a lot from all of my peers in this program and I thank you all for your time, your energy, and all the positive energy that you brought to the class. Thank you so much.“
– Tyleda Worou, 360 Notary & Signing Service
Derrick Clements of D Clem reflected on the position this program has elevated him into:
“Before I started this with this BizFIT, and being here today, I’m looking back at myself, like ‘Man, was I even really trying before?’ I think I was just kind of going with the flow. And now, being around everybody here it’s definitely been motivational for me. Now I have a clear goal with what I want to do, I have a map laid out, I make sure I’m taking notes on a daily basis, I’m setting goals for myself, and I’m able to meet those goals. So it’s definitely been a good thing for me.“
– Derrick Clements, D Clem
The Community Power to Prosper program comes at no cost to the program’s participants and is funded through generous sponsorship from JPMorgan Chase, PNC Foundation, Meyer, Unkovic & Scott, Huntington Bank, UPMC, and Wilke CPAs & Advisors.
More information about UCEP and the Community Power to Prosper program can be found at entrepreneur.pitt.edu/cp2p.