Larry Miller

Named the first chairman of the Jordan Brand Advisory Board in January 2019, Larry Miller led Michael Jordan’s $200-million basketball shoe company to become a $4-billion athletic apparel global powerhouse. After helping found the Jordan Brand at Nike in 1999, he was president of the Portland Trailblazers from 2007 to 2012 and has served in leadership and advocacy roles for the Urban League, Junior Achievement, and Self Enhancement, Inc.

One of the most successful Black businessmen in the country today, Miller's journey started in the streets of West Philly in the 1960s. He wound up in jail more than once, especially as a teenager. But he immersed himself in the educational opportunities, eventually took advantage of a Pennsylvania state education-release program offered to incarcerated people, and was able to graduate with honors from Temple University.

He shares his story in his memoir, "Jump: My Secret Journey from the Streets to the Boardroom." Co-authored with his daughter Laila Lacy, "Jump" is more than a rags-to-riches story — it's also a passionate appeal for criminal justice reform and expanded educational opportunities for incarcerated and formerly incarcerated people across the United States. Drawing on his powerful personal story, as well as his vast and well-connected network, Miller is passionate about expanding opportunities and to provide inspiration for those who need hope.