Milwaukee native and U.S. Army veteran Richard Badger is a lover of all things Milwaukee. He is a natural and dedicated leader and absolutely committed to community service. Professionally he has served in various roles within the leadership at the City of Milwaukee and currently serves as the Director of Workforce Initiatives for the Wisconsin Community Services. He is also incredibly passionate in his roles as head coach for Alverno College golf team and as Co-Founder and Executive Director for We Black We Golf, a social organization that builds community through the game of golf.

In 2016, at the young age of only 43, Richard was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive prostate cancer. The threat to his life prompted a major lifestyle change resulting in a more than 70 pound weight loss. Now, cancer-free, Richard is an outspoken advocate for men’s health, encouraging them to get annual exams, learn their family medical histories, and get prostate exams early and regularly. Richard is a dedicated husband and father who LOVES the game of golf! His motto…People should leave your presence better than when they first entered it.

As a passionate advocate for creativity and empowerment, Teej is a multifaceted creative and entrepreneur dedicated to bringing joy and inspiration to the world. With a background in music, marketing, fashion & media Teej has always found solace and empowerment in the act of creation.
Driven by a deep love for the arts, Teej channels his creativity into a variety of mediums, including graphic design, wardrobe styling and creative direction. From recording music to styling celebrities, Teej strives to infuse every endeavor with authenticity, purpose, and heart.
With a belief that creativity has the power to heal, uplift, and unite, Teej is committed to using his platform to spark positive change and inspire others to embrace their own unique gifts. Through Creative Circle, a growing community that empowers creatives to flourish & flow, Teej seeks to foster connection, ignite imaginations, and celebrate the beauty of the creative spirit.

My Why

As a growing creative entrepreneur seeking to cultivate a vibrant and supportive community, I am honored to be a part of ‘Steppin’ with the Stars.’ This event aligns perfectly with my values of giving back and fostering connections through creativity. By participating, I aim to not only contribute to a worthy cause but also to expand my network and engage with like-minded individuals who share my passion for making a positive difference in the world. I believe that by steppin’ out of my comfort zone and lending my talents to this charitable endeavor, I can both grow personally and help build a stronger, more interconnected community where creativity thrives and everyone has the opportunity to shine.

From a young age while serving under the tutelage of her parents and other esteemed servant leaders, Tiffany Henry believed she was destined to be involved in an environment that would allow her to serve people, advocate for equity and justice, and lead the next generation.

A native of Beloit, Wisconsin; and an alum of Beloit Memorial High School and, Xavier University of Louisiana, the only private and Catholic Historically Black College & University (HBCU) in the country. She received her Certificate for Leadership Training from the African American Leadership Program (AALP) hosted by Cardinal Stritch University, a premier leadership program for Milwaukee African American professionals to develop and strengthen their service in their organizations and the community.

With over 15 years of experience Tiffany, breads a wealth of federal political astuteness, longevity, and commitment. She began her professional public service career 2005 working for then-United States Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin. She served in various capacities learning the role of federal government as a constituent services representative, connecting In 2013, Tiffany joined now United States Senator Tammy Baldwin’s Senate staff in Milwaukee, a rare feat to serve in both chambers of United States Congress for minority congressional employees. Her knowledge and impact-based values has humbly blessed her with the ability to support rising and experienced political & civic leaders in Wisconsin and nationwide. Presently, Tiffany serves as the Milwaukee Office Director for U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin, where she serves as the liaison on behalf of the Senator to local, county, state, and federal policymakers, nonprofit, community and grassroots leaders and organizations of diverse sectors in order to identify, shape, and connect federal legislation, initiatives and investment opportunities to the city of Milwaukee, and Milwaukee County. Specifically her area of expertise includes housing, labor, workforce & economic development. Tiffany is known for her ability to balance her role as public servant all while advancing the continued call for racial, gender, economic equity for the betterment of the Milwaukee community.

From 2019-2021 Tiffany, served as the President of the Milwaukee Urban League Young Professionals (MULYP) is an auxiliary of the Greater Milwaukee Urban League. The organization engages young professionals to support the vision of ensuring that Wisconsin becomes a top 10 place for African Americans to live and thrive and to ensure the greater Milwaukee area becomes a leader in education and socioeconomic inclusion. Prior to her serving as President, she served as Vice-President of the chapter from 2017-2019, and Membership Chair helping the organization reach its membership & fundraising goals. During her time in leadership, Tiffany served on the Greater Milwaukee Urban League’s Board of Directors, a 2018 Graduate of the National Urban League Washington Bureau Advocacy Program, and served on the National Urban League Young Professionals Advocacy and Membership Committees. Under her leadership, the Milwaukee Urban League Young Professionals membership grew to 300 members, award over $5,000 in scholarships to deserving high school seniors, and received several local and state awards for their consistent work in supporting the mission of the Greater Milwaukee Urban League.

Over the years, her formal honors include Madison 365 listing her as one of 49 Wisconsin’s most Influential Black Leaders in Wisconsin in 2019. Recognized by the PowHer Network as SuccessHer in 2020, the “Voice of Justice in 2021. Awarded Central Region Member of the Year in 2017 by the National Urban League of Young Professionals, and received both the Presidents’ Distinguished Young Professionals award and the Distinguished Young Professionals awards from the National Urban League. Tiffany recently was honored as a Young Professional Making a Difference from the Greater Milwaukee Urban League in 2023, and in March 2023, a United Negro College Fund (UNCF) Mastermind award recipient. In 2020, she was appointed to serve on the City of Milwaukee’s Millennial Task Force to recommend a strategic plan for the Milwaukee Common Council work in attracting and retaining young professionals to the city. Throughout her career, she has volunteered her service to various professional and public service affiliations, to include the YMCA of Metropolitan Milwaukee, Pearls for Teen Girls, ACTS Housing, Commercial Corridor Institute (CCI), member of the Wisconsin Democratic Party and others.

Tiffany is mission driven to be impactful, intentional, and vocal in advocating for those who are not heard or represented in an ever-changing climate, and she is vision-focused that when voices are heard the next generation is empowered! When she is not working or volunteering her time, she enjoys reading, traveling, is an avid sports fan, spending time with her family and friends.

Tiffany embraces the statement of “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, “What are you doing for others?” – The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr

My Why

I’ve decided to participate in this year’s Stepping with the Stars in honor of my mother Mary Henry who was diagnosed with cancer in January 2022. Although she is no longer with us on this side she was a pure example of a fighter, embodying faith, and caring for others despite what she mentally and physically had to endure. For that, I’m forever grateful to be her daughter and for the borrowed time we had on this earth together. Prior to her diagnosis, Mom lived a very full life and she taught me a little step or two as she loved to dance! More importantly, Mom was a friend and advocate of education. She found joy in mentoring students and advocating for their academic success, and equity. She taught me about giving back to others and to keep moving even when life may not always be fair. So Mom while I’m a little nervous thank you for giving me courage, and style. Cancer isn’t just a disease it’s an unfortunate and unfair test of our strength and faith, yet God provides us with the understanding that He is walking with us every step of the way. There are so many individuals and families who are trying to fight through and or cope with their loss. Our help to get us a step closer to a cure through various resources in the interim is so important. I want us all to lead healthy, fulfilling, and joyful lives. Mom, this one is for you and every fighter and their family members.

As a multi award winning entrepreneur, and creative, I use my talents to give back to the community, by teaching entrepreneurship, graphic arts and apparel printing to local schools and nonprofits. I have partnered with organizations like MPS, The Milwaukee Bucks, Kohls, United Way, Blood Center of Wisconsin and more. I won the Milwaukee Business Journal top 40 under 40 award in 2021, The Biz Times Notable Minority executive award, the Governors rising star entrepreneur award in 2022 and in 2023 I won the award for the Wisconsin Titan top 100 CEO/C-level exec. I also serve on many boards in Milwaukee that help youth foster creativity in Music and Arts, so I plan on continuing to spread my knowledge and creativity to the community for years to come.

My Why

Many of us have friends, family members, or colleagues who have been affected by cancer. Participating in Stepping with the stars is a tangible way to show our support for them and their journey. My reason is because I saw my sister and a few friends of mine have had a battle with cancer and come out on top so that gives me motivation to do whatever I can to help out. I see it as a celebration of life and a way to honor their resilience.

Meet Mahdi, a beacon of inspiration and relentless advocate for his community. With a background rooted in service and a heart dedicated to making a difference, Mahdi’s journey is a testament to the power of determination and passion. From his humble beginnings as the son of a Principal and an Army officer, Mahdi’s path led him through various schools and cities until his mother found a cause worth settling for in Milwaukee, WI.

Since his high school days, Mahdi has been a shining example of selflessness and dedication, volunteering his time and expertise to uplift the Greater Milwaukee Area. His belief in the importance of community revitalization is unwavering, as he sees it not just as a duty but as a fundamental component of building a better society for all.

As an early childhood educator turned registered nurse, Mahdi’s commitment to improving the health and well-being of his community has only strengthened over time. With a deep understanding of the value of prevention and wellness, he has held pivotal roles in various healthcare settings, always striving to make a positive impact on those around him.

His latest venture, BKlear H2O, is a true testament to his visionary spirit and commitment to creating a better world. By promoting healthier choices, reducing plastic waste, and addressing critical environmental issues, Mahdi is not just making waves locally but also on a global scale. With partnerships and collaborations that span continents, his impact knows no bounds.

And as a father of three, Mahdi’s dedication to leaving a lasting legacy of positivity and progress is a legacy that will inspire generations to come. His recent purchase of a school in Ghana is just one more example of his unwavering commitment to making a difference, no matter the distance.

Mahdi’s story is a reminder that with passion, perseverance, and a heart full of compassion, anything is possible. He stands as a shining example of the transformative power of community, the importance of giving back, and the boundless possibilities that come with never giving up on your dreams.”

My Why

“Although I’m not normally cool with public dancing, I am all for the cause. I’m a registered nurse… this cause was a no-brainer. I love challenging myself; I get to learn something new and take my lady dancing.

Adrienne currently serves as the Director of Intercultural and Diversity Engagement at Carroll University. She takes the lead on developing and implementing DEI training programs, and initiatives. Adrienne has more than 10 years of experience working in the field of education from K-12 to the professional level. She has a passion for serving students and ensuring they reach their academic and career goals.

In addition to her university responsibilities, Adrienne enjoys working in her community building relationships with various community organizations to address issues such as education, healthcare, and employment. Recently appointed by the Mayor of Milwaukee as a Commissioner for the Equal Rights Commission, she passionately advocates for and celebrates the diversity of Milwaukee while actively working to eliminate all forms of bias and discrimination.

Adriene is currently working on her doctoral degree in Global Leadership & Change at Tiffin University. She holds a Master of Science in Administrative Leadership from the University of Wisconsin- Milwaukee and received her Bachelor of the Arts in Communications from Mount Mary University.

An innate sweet tooth plus an “Easy Bake Oven” have proven to be a game changing recipe for Milwaukee native Adija Greer-Smith As a child, Adija Greer-Smith could often be found at the hip of her grandmother, making southern styled treats for their family feasts. With an inherited passion for baking delectable desserts, this gift is a dream fulfilled in baking goodness for everyone. Adija has over 15 years in the Baking /Pastry industry which has recently landed her an appointment on the Pastry Chef team for Potawatomi Casino & Hotel Brand as a Pastry Sous Chef. After being featured on Food Network in 2018 Adija launched Confectionately Yours and opened her first retail space at the Sherman Phoenix Market Place in 2022 she expanded her brand by opening Confectionately Yours Cafe. Adija has trained and developed dozens of entrepreneurs and youth in and out of the culinary industry and has been recognized throughout the Milwaukee community for her leadership, dedication and business ethics. Adija has had the opportunity to share her gift of baking with a long list of corporate partners and organizations such as The Milwaukee Bucks , The Green Bay Packers , and The Milwaukee Brewers to name a few.

My Why

Adija is honored to participate in the 2024 SWTS because cancer has taken an extreme toll in the lives of her family. In 2023 Adija lost her eldest brother Rolando to colorectal cancer and just 3 weeks after his passing Adija’s husband Emmitt was diagnosed with Colon & Liver cancer and is currently in treatment. Adija is dancing in honor of the fight against colorectal cancer and is a true advocate of early detection to beat this disease that is heavily affecting the African American community. Adija is the proud mother of Xavier & Malik Smith.