Dr. Keys, you began your professional journey as a performing artist — with voice as your primary instrument, supported by acting and dance. How did that foundation in storytelling and performance shape who you are today?
Absolutely. My artistic journey began with voice. Singing was the first way I learned to take up space, move a room, and tell the truth. Acting came next, and dance followed as a skill I developed to become a more versatile performer. But voice has always been my center — the tool I still rely on most today.
Music, theater, and dance gave me more than creative outlets; they gave me structure. In the arts, you quickly learn that your individual expression matters, but so does your ability to contribute to something greater than yourself. If you’re off pitch, too loud, or miss your mark, you impact the whole ensemble. That awareness — knowing your role and showing up fully — has stayed with me.
It taught me discipline, preparation, and the value of harmony. Those lessons now shape how I lead and collaborate — whether I’m speaking with funders, mentoring young leaders, or working alongside university presidents. I still believe in rehearsal. I still listen for harmony. And I still use my voice, not just to be heard, but to help move something forward — something bigger than myself.

Dr. Lockhart, your path began in graphic design before evolving into a celebrated career in fine art. Can you take us back to the moment when you realized that art would not only be your passion but your life’s calling?
That turning point came in the year 2000. At the time, I was freelancing as a graphic designer, with hopes of working at a media firm among other creatives, producing ads and design work. But I found myself yearning for something deeper—something I could truly hold onto and fall in love with. I had always admired art, but in that season, it became more than admiration. It grew into a true passion. I began experimenting with different textiles, mediums, and designs, and with each new exploration, I felt an undeniable joy. That’s when I made the decision to fully commit to becoming a professional artist. It wasn’t just about creating anymore—it was about answering a calling.

As a self-taught artist, you’ve carved out a space that demonstrates both discipline and innovation. What were some of the most defining challenges of developing your craft outside of traditional training, and how did those experiences shape your creative identity?
Being self-taught pushed me to define my own standards of excellence. I studied art in its many forms, observing how diverse artists created in ways that reflected their voices, and it gave me permission to do the same for myself. Since I didn’t follow a traditional path, I had to design my own. What I carried with me from high school art classes—along with the encouragement of my teachers—became the foundation for my growth. Over time, I mastered acrylics, which I love for their quick drying time, though I also work in oil, watercolor, pen and ink, and collage. My creative process is deeply spiritual. I believe God entrusted me with this gift, and it continues to evolve with each piece I create. I see art as a lifelong journey of learning, discovery, and faith.

What inspired you to write The Gift & The Legacy: African American Philanthropy as Power, Purpose and Promise, and why was this the right moment to release it?
It is necessary to shift the spotlight away from philanthropy being narrowly defined as large financial contributions or names etched on buildings. This journal seeks to illuminate the fullness of giving—time, talent, ties, testimony, treasure, and trust—so that all contributions are acknowledged as vital to the progress of our country and culture. Recognizing this truth becomes a source of motivation, inspiring people to give with greater intentionality. In today’s climate of racial tension, it is critical that African Americans remember the sacrifices and strategies of those who came before us. That is precisely why we have our own organizations and Historically Black Colleges and Universities. This work is both a reminder and a charge not to diminish our legacy, but to build upon it.

What was your process for shaping this journal—how did you balance research, reflection, and your own lived experience in the writing?
The journal grew out of years of notes and reflections from my decades of service on nonprofit boards. My innate curiosity pushed me to ask why African Americans often appeared not to invest in ourselves at the level truly needed for sustained growth and success. Understanding our history was central to answering that question, for our story is one of resilience and innovation, continually building upon the shoulders of our forefathers. Writing allowed me to bring that history forward, interwoven with my lived experience. Publishing those words transforms them into a lasting resource, empowering all who read them to see themselves as participants in this legacy of giving.

Your journey into advocacy began with a powerful moment with your son. How has fatherhood continued to shape the way you lead and build platforms for representation?
Fatherhood has been the most transformative part of my life. That moment with my son opened my eyes to how much I had grown accustomed to the absence of representation for Black same-gender-loving men and Black LGBTQ+ families. Realizing that our story could be reduced to stereotypes or erased altogether broke my heart. I knew then that I had to act—not just for myself, but to give him real examples to point to and say, “That’s not true. My dads showed me differently.” It isn’t easy, and at times the weight feels heavy, but I believe deeply that one person, one story, can spark a movement.

Black Gay Table Talk® has become an important space for authentic conversations. What impact do you hope it will have on both the community and the broader cultural landscape?
I envision Black Gay Table Talk® as a catalyst for recognition and celebration. Within the community, I hope it affirms people by showing them they are seen, valued, and worthy of being celebrated. Beyond that, I want the platform to be recognized for its quality-driven approach—offering insight, visibility, and a sense of belonging in a cultural lane that we define for ourselves.