In honor of Black History Month, we would like to spotlight some of our outstanding OΔK members!
Denise L. Bennett
Indiana State University, 2001
Denise L. Bennett has made a lasting impact through her professional achievements and community service. A music prodigy who plays five instruments, she began her journey as a music business major at Indiana State University before earning an MBA in Marketing and Media from Fordham University, where she now teaches as an adjunct faculty member.
As vice president of brand strategy at iHeart Media, Bennett has partnered with major brands, including Walmart, CarMax, and WarnerMedia. She has also held leadership roles such as board chair of the NYC WarnerMedia Black Professionals and president of the NYC Chapter of NAMIC. Her dedication has earned her numerous accolades, including the 2023 Cynopsis Top Women in Media Award and the Fordham Gabelli School of Business Faculty Excellence Award.
Bennett was inducted into O∆K at Indiana State in 2001 and credits the Society as a “consistent force” in her career. She actively mentors O∆K members, emphasizing perseverance and resilience. Her advice? “Build your bridges before you need them” and embrace your success.
G. C. Murray II, Esq., DPL
Florida State University, 2011
Omicron Delta Kappa proudly honors G.C. Murray II, Esq., DPL (Florida State University) for his exceptional contributions to the legal profession, nonprofit leadership, and civic engagement. As CEO and Managing Attorney of Association GC, Murray has spent his career advancing justice, equity, and democracy through innovative legal solutions, advocacy, and leadership development.
A globally recognized attorney and certified executive coach, Murray has helped countless high-stakes professionals elevate their careers and leadership potential. Murray has been recognized with numerous accolades, including the American Bar Association’s Rosner & Rosner Young Lawyer Professionalism Award and being named one of the ABA’s inaugural Top 40 Under 40 Lawyers. His unwavering commitment to mentorship and ethical leadership has left a lasting imprint on the legal and business communities.
As a sought-after speaker, Murray has shared his insights on leadership, professional growth, and time optimization on stages worldwide. Most recently, he inspired the next generation of leaders as the closing keynote speaker at the 2023 O∆K National Leadership Conference. His powerful address, Leadership at Heart, underscored the transformative power of empathy, courage, and purpose in leadership.
Today, we celebrate G.C. Murray’s remarkable achievements and his continued dedication to excellence, professionalism, and service. His leadership embodies the core values of Omicron Delta Kappa and serves as an inspiration to all.
Kim Shine
Grand Valley State University, 2008
Omicron Delta Kappa proudly recognizes Kim Shine (Grand Valley State University), a dynamic media professional dedicated to impactful storytelling and community engagement. With over a decade of experience in television news and radio broadcasting, Shine has built a career on thoughtful, honest journalism.
As the On-Air Host/Production Manager for HYFIN at Radio Milwaukee, she produces compelling audio content and interviews influential leaders, artists, and creatives. Prior to radio, Shine worked as a reporter, anchor, and producer, covering major stories with local, national, and international reach. Her work contributed to a Chicago/Midwest Emmy nomination for a special on families affected by gun violence in Milwaukee.
Beyond journalism, Shine is an author and poet, using her book, On the Other Side of Everything, to inspire readers to embrace their inner strength and take control of their happiness.
A proud O∆K member and 2023 National Leadership Conference speaker, Shine embodies leadership, creativity, and resilience. Her dedication to storytelling and empowerment makes her an inspiration to aspiring leaders everywhere.
Orlando “Tubby” Smith
University of Kentucky, 2001
Orlando “Tubby” Smith, is a legendary college basketball coach and a 2001 initiate of the University of Kentucky O∆K Circle. Smith’s 49-year coaching career includes leading teams at High Point, Tulsa, Georgia, Kentucky, Minnesota, Texas Tech, and Memphis, as well as coaching the 2000 U.S. men’s national basketball team.
Smith’s greatest triumph came at Kentucky, where he led the Wildcats to the 1998 NCAA Championship. Over 31 seasons as a head coach, he achieved 26 winning seasons and joined an elite group of coaches to win 365 games in 15 seasons or fewer. He is also one of only three coaches to take five different teams to the NCAA tournament. He is a 2001 initiate of the UK Circle.
Beyond coaching, Smith is a dedicated philanthropist, founding The Tubby Smith Foundation in Lexington, KY, and supporting his alma mater, High Point University, with a new basketball arena. His leadership on and off the court embodies O∆K’s values, making him a deserving recipient of Omicron Delta Kappa’s 2024 Pillar of Leadership in Athletics Award.
