While attending St. John’s University, Crystal Foote completed her INROADS internship with Ferguson Enterprises as a Marketing Intern in 2008. At the time, she was navigating the loss of her father, her greatest mentor. INROADS provided the mentorship and stability she needed at that pivotal moment. “INROADS had a profound impact on my career journey, not only by equipping me with the tools, resources, and network to thrive but also by providing a source of guidance during a pivotal time in my life,” she reflects. “INROADS taught me the importance of preparation, professionalism, and resilience—values my father also instilled in me and that I now carry forward as the Founder of Digital Culture Group.”

After her INROADS internship at Ferguson Enterprises, Crystal built a marketing career spanning nearly two decades before founding Digital Culture Group, a trailblazing digital marketing and advertising technology company. Today, it stands out as the only Black and woman-owned ad tech company in its field. Under her leadership, the firm has delivered award-winning solutions for Fortune 500 brands and global advertising holding companies.

Her vision for purposeful impact extends beyond business results. Through the company’s IMPACT Program (Impressions for Positive Change and Transformation), Digital Culture Group has donated more than 2 million ad impressions to nonprofits—including INROADS—to expand their reach and amplify their missions. The company has also been widely recognized for its leadership, earning a Gold Stevie Award, AdExchanger and AdMonsters’ Entrepreneur of the Year, and recognition as a Givsly Values-Based Vendor Honoree.

Looking forward, Crystal plans to grow her company’s social responsibility initiatives while mentoring the next generation of leaders, particularly young Black women in business and technology. Her advice for students underscores the value of courage and authenticity:

• Embrace every opportunity to learn and grow, even those that stretch you beyond your comfort zone.
• Seek feedback and ask questions, because curiosity leads to growth.
• Stay true to your perspective, since your voice is your greatest strength.
• See setbacks as stepping stones—not failures—to future success.

Crystal’s journey reflects preparation, resilience, and vision. More than building a company, she is creating space for others to succeed—and ensuring that the paths of tomorrow are more inclusive than those of today.