Dr. Narketta Sparkman-Key is an award winning speaker, published researcher, professor and scholar. She is an expert in self-esteem development, DEI, women leadership and vulnerable populations.
Dr. Key is the Vice Provost for Strategic Initiatives and Global Affairs at James Madison University since 2022. There she is also responsible for Faculty Title IX adjudication and the Inclusive Research and Pedagogies Seed Fund.
Dr. Key is also the host of the podcast called Making It Plain, which is dedicated to discussing issues that influence black communities, black families and black women.

A Chat With Dr. Stephanie Shonekan

The Black Pod Class is the podcast arm of the Black Podcasts class, taught at the University of Maryland by Dr. Briana Barner. Each episode will bring lively interviews with an array of guests discussing their experiences as Black podcasters, producers, listeners and fans. Hosted by the students of the Black Pod Class, this podcast expands the classroom outside of the walls of UMD and allows listeners insight into what we are learning, discussing and dreaming about in the Black Podcasts class. We hope you enjoy!