Jay Bailey

2024 Detroit Digital Empowerment Summit

At the 2024 Detroit Digital Empowerment Summit, Jay Bailey, President and CEO of the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs, delivered a powerful keynote that traced the legacy of H.J. Russell — one of the most influential Black entrepreneurs in American history.

Through storytelling grounded in purpose and pride, Bailey highlighted how Russell’s journey of resilience, vision, and community-driven entrepreneurship laid the foundation for generations of Black innovators to rise. His words reminded us that legacy isn’t just about what you build — it’s about who you build it for.