Marva Smalls

Talk about an executive whose name is a misnomer. Smalls is a big thinker and big achiever, working among the leadership of all MTVN brands to champion multiculturalism, inclusiveness and diversity across the company across the globe. Her role includes the development of the next generation of leaders at MTVN and the expansion of the company’s partnerships with outside organizations. Under Smalls’ leadership, Nickelodeon’s pro-social campaigns—including The Big Help and Let’s Just Play—have been recognized by Presidential administrations and attracted top names in the entertainment industry. And this executive puts her money where her mouth is. Last fall the Florence, S.C., native donated $1 million to her alma mater University of South Carolina earmarked for the school’s new aerospace program. The scholarships will go to minority students from the Pee Dee region of the state majoring in computer science and engineering.