Walking Our Talk: 15 Years of Black Nonbelievers and the Power of Diversity

Since 2011, Black Nonbelievers has provided a voice and space for Black Nonreligious people, and has also contributed to diversity and inclusion in both Black and Secular communities.

Mandisa Thomas will share some successes, challenges, and why support for women of color in particular is needed.

Mandisa is the Founder and President of Black Nonbelievers. Although never formally indoctrinated into belief, she was exposed to a variety of religions as s child.

A Certified Humanist Celebrant, Mandisa is also a member of the Godless Gospel ensemble. Black Nonbelievers is celebrating its 15th year in 2026.

This Platform will feature music from Adam Rogers. Adam is a pianist, collaborative artist, conductor, and educator. He currently serves as a choral director in the Parkway School District, directing a program of more than 250 students in grades 6-8. In addition to his work in the middle grades, he serves as music director for the extra-curricular ensembles and musical theatre productions at Parkway Central High School.

As a pianist, Adam has performed as a specialist in modern piano repertoire across St. Louis, performing with ensembles such as the Meramec Symphonic Band and the Convergence Symphonic Band. He also regularly serves as accompanist for vocalists and instrumentalists alike.

Outside of his performance career, Adam currently serves as chairman of the board of the Alton Municipal Band, where he organizes the annual summer concert series. He resides in Godfrey, Illinois, with his cat, Rondo.