O’Bryant, a resident of Dorchester, is Director of the John D. O’Bryant African American Institute at Northeastern and lecturer of Political Science, Public Policy, and Africana Studies. He will provide research guidance on all aspects of the project. O’Bryant has led scores of community initiatives to enhance urban cohesion and cross-cultural collaboration. His publications include the journal article, Blacks in Massachusetts: Comparative Demographic, Social and Economic Experiences with Whites, Latinos, and Asians and Walking in the Wake: A Father’s Legacy and A Son’s Pride. O’Bryant holds a PhD from MIT, Urban and Regional Studies, and a B.S.C.S.E. from Howard University (computer systems and engineering).