Up to $50,000 Per Winning Proposal to Support Student Opportunities and Specialized Resources at Minority Serving Institutions
HOUSTON — March 16, 2026 — HeroX, the leading platform for crowdsourced solutions, today announced the launch of MPLAN on behalf of NASA's Minority University Research and Education Project (MUREP). This two-phase program seeks research proposals from Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) across NASA's 2026 topic areas, providing funding to MSIs to further develop ideas, facilitate research, and engage stakeholders.
"We are excited to kick off this year's NASA MUREP Partnership Learning Award Notification (MPLAN). MPLAN continues to make funding opportunities more accessible, strengthen institutional capacity, and foster direct engagement with NASA experts," said Torry Johnson, Deputy Associate Administrator for NASA's Office of STEM Engagement. "This initiative plays a vital role in empowering HBCUs, TCUs and MSIs to connect with NASA's mission and resources. Looking forward to another successful year and the new partnerships and innovations that will emerge."
The Challenge: MPLAN operates in two phases. In Phase 1, Principal Investigators at MSIs submit research proposals addressing one of NASA's 2026 topic areas by May 29, 2026. Successful submissions will exhibit scientific and technical merit, feasibility, and potential benefit to NASA's interests. In Phase 2, prize recipients participate in meetings with NASA Mission Directorate representatives and subject matter experts, including a kickoff meeting, workshop, and monthly engagements from August through November 2026.
The Prize: NASA awards up to $50,000 per winning proposal. MSIs can utilize funds for staff support, student experiences, professional development, research activities, and specialized resources.
Eligibility: Principal Investigators submitting proposals must have an affiliation with a Minority Serving Institution.
Key Dates:
Full challenge timeline and details found (HERE).
About HEROX:
HeroX is a platform and open marketplace for crowdsourcing innovation and human ingenuity, co-founded in 2013 by serial entrepreneur Christian Cotichini and XPRIZE Founder and Futurist Peter Diamandis. HeroX offers a turnkey, easy-to-use platform that supports anyone, anywhere, to solve everyday business and world challenges using the power of the crowd. Uniquely positioned as the Social Network for Innovation, HeroX is the only place you can build, grow, and curate your very own crowd.
Explore the latest challenges at www.herox.com.
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Taylor Electric Company CEO and President Kendra Dinkins Assumes Historic Leadership Role as the first female and first Black President of ECA Chicago
CHICAGO — March 12, 2026 — The Electrical Contractors' Association of City of Chicago and Cook County (ECA) has elected Kendra Dinkins as its new president, making her the first female — and first Black — president in the organization's history. Dinkins, who serves as president and CEO of Taylor Electric Company, a fourth-generation, family-owned Chicago electrical contractor founded in 1922, assumed the role after three years as ECA vice president.
Dinkins' election marks a landmark moment for the electrical construction industry in Chicago and Cook County, where the ECA has represented union electrical contractors for over a century. She is the first woman and the first person of color to serve as the organization's president.
"It's a real joyous occasion because we're still breaking barriers. I want to be able to represent women contractors and Black contractors — and basically be the face for all contractors."
— Kendra Dinkins, President, ECA; President & CEO, Taylor Electric Company
Dinkins' path to the presidency spans over a decade of dedicated service to the ECA and the broader electrical construction industry. She joined the ECA board ten years ago and has chaired the Research and Education Committee, contributed to the development of the Chicago Electrical Code, and been an active participant in Women in NECA and other national initiatives.
“Kendra’s election represents everything the ECA stands for — investing in people, developing leaders from within and building an industry that works for everyone. She has earned this role through years of dedicated service, and we look forward to the progress she will drive for our members and for the city of Chicago.”
— Mark Thomas, Executive Vice President, Electrical Contractors’ Association of City of Chicago and Cook County
She served three years as vice president before assuming the presidency, working closely with outgoing President Bob Fimbianti of Linear Electric, who now serves as ECA governor.
“It has been one of the great privileges of my time leading this organization to work alongside Kendra and help prepare her for this moment. She is ready — and then some. The ECA is in exceptional hands, and I have no doubt that her presidency will set a new standard for what leadership in this industry looks like.”
— Bob Fimbianti, Governor, Electrical Contractors’ Association of City of Chicago and Cook County; President, Linear Electric
Taylor Electric Company, which Dinkins leads alongside co-owners representing the company's third and fourth generations, was founded by her great-grandfather in 1922 and has remained 100% family-owned and operated throughout its history. The company performs commercial, healthcare and educational electrical construction work across the Chicago metropolitan area and is a longtime member of the ECA and signatory contractor with IBEW Local 134.
"The industry as a whole really embraced [my family] — every generation, over the years. That's why it's just really exciting for me to be able to serve the industry that's really helped us out."
— Kendra Dinkins
As president, Dinkins has identified workforce diversity and small contractor advocacy as top priorities. She has called for expanded recruitment outreach to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), deeper engagement with underrepresented communities and stronger support for small and minority-owned electrical contractors navigating the association's programs and policies. Her three-year term is expected to run through 2029, after which she will transition to the ECA governor role, representing Chicago and Cook County contractors nationally through the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA).
"I'll gladly be the infantry [for women and people of color] because we've got some great cavalry coming down the line. I'm just the beginning. So just watch out, everybody. We're coming."
— Kendra Dinkins
About the Electrical Contractors' Association of City of Chicago and Cook County (ECA):
The Electrical Contractors' Association of City of Chicago and Cook County (ECA) represents union electrical contractors throughout the Chicago metropolitan area. The ECA works in partnership with IBEW Local 134 to maintain the highest standards of electrical construction, advance workforce development and promote the union electrical industry across the region. For more information, visit https://www.ecachicago.com/aws/ECAC/pt/sp/home_page.
About Taylor Electric Company:
Taylor Electric Company is a fourth-generation, 100% family-owned and operated union electrical contractor based in Chicago, IL. Founded in 1922, the company specializes in commercial, healthcare and educational electrical construction and has been a proud ECA member and IBEW Local 134 signatory contractor throughout its history. For more information, visit https://taylorelectricco.com/.
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Over 85 Students from 10 HBCUs Competed in 24-Hour Hackathon for $10,000 in Prizes
CHARLOTTE, NC — March 11, 2026 — Webber Marketing, creators of the Pepsi National Battle of the Bands (NBOTB), announces that its dynamic film, Celebrating Champions of Culture, is now available for streaming on Tubi and Amazon Prime Video, marking a significant milestone in the organization's continued expansion into national digital platforms.
This is the first time a National Battle of the Bands film has been distributed on major streaming platforms, signaling a new era of accessibility and global reach for the brand's storytelling and cultural programming.
Celebrating Champions of Culture spotlights the legacy, precision, and pageantry of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) marching bands, capturing electrifying performances, behind-the-scenes moments, and the powerful stories that define HBCU band culture. The film also reflects on a milestone moment in NBOTB history, highlighting the energy and impact of the organization's 10th anniversary celebration while reinforcing the evolution and continued growth of the platform.
"Over a decade, the National Battle of the Bands has been about music, arts, education, and creating real opportunity for students and their institutions," said Derek Webber, Executive Producer and Creator of the National Battle of the Bands and Founder of Webber Marketing. "Bringing Celebrating Champions of Culture to platforms like Tubi and Amazon allows us to expand that mission, share the power of HBCU excellence with new audiences, and continue building a legacy rooted in culture and community impact."
Since its inception, the National Battle of the Bands has awarded more than $2.4 million in scholarship support to participating HBCU bands and programs, while engaging tens of thousands of fans annually through live events, educational initiatives, and community service efforts. The streaming release of Celebrating Champions of Culture provides another avenue to amplify that mission, extending the experience beyond the stadium and into homes across the country.
The film's debut on Tubi and Amazon Video represents a strategic expansion of NBOTB's media footprint, positioning the brand for continued growth across broadcast, digital, and streaming platforms.
The expansion into streaming platforms also reflects NBOTB's broader commitment to content growth. Additional films and original programming are expected to be added in the future as the organization continues to build its media presence and elevate HBCU culture through storytelling.
Fans, alumni, supporters, and music enthusiasts can now stream Celebrating Champions of Culture on Tubi and Amazon Video and experience the energy, unity, and legacy that define the National Battle of the Bands.
For more information about the National Battle of the Bands, visit website (HERE) and follow @NationalBattleoftheBands across social platforms.
About National Battle of the Bands:
The National Battle of the Bands' (NBOTB) mission is to enhance the exposure of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), their marching bands, and the important roles they play in educating aspiring musicians and developing future leaders in the areas of music, arts, and education. As one of the largest showcases of HBCU marching bands in the country, NBOTB serves as a platform to inspire the next generation of leaders. To date, the event has awarded over $2.4 million in scholarships to participating institutions, while engaging tens of thousands of fans annually through live performances, educational programming, and community impact initiatives.
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New UNCF Original Series on HBCU GO Delivers National Visibility for HBCU Leadership, Innovation, and Impact
LOS ANGELES — March 10, 2026 — In a powerful alignment of media, mission, and movement, the Allen Media Group free-streaming digital platform and premier destination for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) sports and culture, HBCU GO, and UNCF, the nation’s largest and most effective education organization for underrepresented students, are pleased to announce a groundbreaking strategic partnership designed to elevate the full HBCU experience to a national audience. Forged through a shared, long-term commitment to empowering Black excellence, this alliance unites the leading broadcasting platform for HBCU culture with the nation’s foremost advocate for equal access to higher education. Through cross-platform programming, the partnership will broadcast the academic, cultural, and athletic triumphs of UNCF member institutions to millions of viewers worldwide.
The partnership just launched with the premiere of the new video content series HBCU VOICES: EXECUTIVE LEADERS UNFILTERED. More than a program launch, this series provides extraordinary visibility and reach for HBCUs. By leveraging UNCF’s 82 years of leadership in advancing HBCUs and education, and HBCU GO’s expansive national distribution footprint, the partnership ensures that UNCF’s mission and the voices of its HBCU scholars and institutional leaders are seen in millions of homes.
While HBCU GO is widely recognized for its sports broadcasting dominance, its collaboration with UNCF enables the network to make an even deeper investment in the entire campus ecosystem, spotlighting academic excellence, HBCU presidential leadership, alumni success, innovation, and the economic engines driving these historic institutions. By placing UNCF institutions on a massive national stage, HBCU GO is not simply broadcasting stories; it is helping advance UNCF’s work to drive increased enrollment, attract corporate sponsorship, increase donor engagement, and strengthen the economic sustainability of HBCUs nationwide.
Produced by video production and event management company 360 Media Management Group (360 MMG), HBCU VOICES: EXECUTIVE LEADERS UNFILTERED was created by UNCF’s Institute for Capacity Building and explores the innovations, transformations, and advancements taking place across Historically Black Colleges and Universities, directly from the leaders driving that change. HBCU GO, UNCF, and 360 MMG envision a multi-year partnership that reflects these organizations' unwavering dedication to the culture, the students, and the long-term vitality of Black education.
The premiere episode, CEO to CEO, features a powerful one-on-one conversation between HBCU GO President Curtis Symonds and UNCF President & CEO Dr. Michael Lomax. The 58-minute discussion examines the evolving higher education landscape, the state of HBCUs, and the urgency of sustaining Black institutional excellence in a rapidly shifting national climate.
Upcoming episodes include:
● Institutional Excellence – Women in Leadership (TRT - 15:00) featuring Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis, President of Benedict College, exploring executive leadership and growth strategies shaping the next era of HBCUs.
● AI, Tech, and HBCUs (TRT - 28:00) with Dr. Melva K. Wallace, President of Huston-Tillotson University, examining how emerging technologies are positioning HBCUs at the forefront of innovation.
● Driving Systemic Change (TRT - 20:00) featuring Bill Moses of the Kresge Foundation, discussing scalable models for long-term institutional transformation.
● Revitalizing the Legacy (TRT - 20:00) with Anthony Davis, President of Livingstone College, focusing on alumni engagement, campus revitalization, and sustainable growth.
“UNCF is an historic and excellent organization,” said Byron Allen, Founder/Chairman/CEO of Allen Media Group, the parent company of HBCU GO. “The strategic alliance between HBCU GO and UNCF will continue to elevate and amplify the phenomenal leadership, innovation, and impact of our Historically Black Colleges and Universities.”
“As a proud graduate of Central State University, I’ve experienced firsthand the transformative power of HBCUs and the invaluable lessons gained from mentors who have walked the same journey,” said Curtis Symonds, Co-Founder and President of HBCU GO. “I remain committed to empowering our youth, and this landmark partnership with UNCF reflects our shared belief that ‘A Mind Is a Terrible Thing to Waste’ as well as our dedication to creating safe, inspiring spaces where young people can learn, grow, and succeed.”
“I am thrilled to announce the launch of the HBCU VOICES series on HBCU GO in partnership with 360 MMG. This initiative is a celebration of the rich heritage and vibrant stories within our HBCU community. Through this series, we aim to amplify the voices of our students, alumni and educators, showcasing their achievements, challenges and contributions to our society. This exciting new series will inspire future generations and foster a deeper appreciation and understanding of the impact of HBCUs on culture and innovation,” said Maurice E. Jenkins, Jr., UNCF Executive Vice President and Chief Development Officer.
“This visionary partnership between UNCF and HBCU GO requires world-class storytelling, and that is exactly what 360 MMG brings to the table,” added Curt Simmons of 360 MMG. “With more than 35 years of experience in television production, we are proud to produce the premium programming that will stream on the network and help bring this excellent content to millions of viewers.”
For program information and airtimes, visit @hbcugo.tv or download the HBCU GO app.
About HBCU GO:
HBCU GO is a cultural lifestyle destination and leading sports media provider that embraces and represents the voice of Black Excellence every day of the year through an all-new platform that captures the rich history, diversity, perspectives, and cultural experiences at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). HBCU GO also provides a platform for emerging creatives in media production, branding, and broadcasting. We offer our viewers the best in live sports, original series, documentaries, films, comedy, and edutainment programming produced by African American leading producers, directors, and students from select HBCUs. Launched in 2012, the free-streaming service HBCU GO was purchased by Byron Allen in 2021 and is part of Byron Allen’s Allen Media Group. For more information, visit website (HERE).
About UNCF:
UNCF is one of the nation’s largest and most effective supporters of higher education and serves as a leading advocate for college-bound students. Since its founding in 1944, UNCF has raised more than $6 billion to support students’ access to higher education, provide scholarships and strengthen historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). Each year, UNCF awards more than 11,000 scholarships totaling more than $62 million. The scholarships support students attending more than 600 US-based colleges and universities including 37 UNCF-member HBCUs. Through its efforts, UNCF has helped generations of students to get to and through college. We believe a college education plays a vital role in fortifying the pipeline of leaders and professionals who contribute to the advancement of our society. Our logo features the UNCF torch of leadership in education and our widely recognized trademark is, ‟A mind is a terrible thing to waste.”® Learn more at UNCF.org or for continuous updates and news, follow UNCF on Instagram.
About 360 Media Management Group:
Led by President and CEO Curt Simmons, 360 MMG is a premier, multi-faceted creative video production and event management company providing world-class entertainment, sports programming, and production services both nationally and internationally. Founded to capitalize on the expansive opportunities within video production, program distribution, and event marketing, the company leverages over 35 years of industry-leading television and live event expertise. With an extensive portfolio that includes more than two decades of college sports coverage, major political and cultural specials, and high-profile live events, 360 MMG is dedicated to delivering high-quality, impactful storytelling and premium broadcast content for diverse audiences worldwide.
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Over 85 Students from 10 HBCUs Competed in 24-Hour Hackathon for $10,000 in Prizes
ATLANTA — March 09, 2026 — Spelman College welcomed over 85 students from 10 HBCUs to compete in the fourth annual HBCU Game Jam, a 24-hour hackathon competition where students work in teams to create original video games from scratch. Hosted by Spelman’s Arthur M. Blank Innovation Lab, HBCU Game Jam is designed to expand opportunities for Black creators in the global gaming industry.
During the event, teams worked against the clock to ideate storylines, code gameplay and design visuals. After the hackathon, students pitched their finished products to judges for the chance to win up to $10,000 in prizes. Prior to this year’s Game Jam, over 62% of the student contestants had never made a video game. By the end of the competition, the students produced over 20 original games.
For the past two years, a team of Spelman students have led the planning for Game Jam. This year, the event was co-chaired by Devyn Washington, C’2026, a game design and development major, and Trinity Royal, C’2026, a computer science major. According to Royal, events like Game Jam are integral to ensuring the gaming industry reflects the diversity of its consumers.
“The gaming industry is a multi-billion-dollar industry, but there's only about five percent of professionals that are Black,” said Royal in an interview with CBS Atlanta. “Our skin tone is not seen. Our hair texture is not seen."
The Innovation Lab’s Director, Jaycee Holmes-Nguyen, C’2016, and Assistant Director Eric Thompson, echoed Royal’s sentiments and emphasized the importance of pushing diverse talent pools into tech careers.
“I think it’s important for Black people to be making stuff and building things because we have so much to offer and such a unique perspective,” said Thompson in an interview with Capital B News. “The stuff that the students come up with in [the Innovation Lab] is incredible. When the facilities and resources are made available, we see the amazing things that can happen.”
"If we don't have Black designers, Black engineers, Black game developers, we're missing such a big part of our population's voice," said Holmes-Nguyen, professor of arts and visual culture at Spelman. “Part of the reason I created HBCU Game Jam in 2023 was to help nurture the next generations of Black techies to enter the industry. More seats at the table means more quality gaming and experiences. At Spelman, the goal isn't just to play the game. It's to change who gets to build it."
Winners included:
• 1st Place: Famished — Howard University
• 2nd Place: Erika & Me — Alabama A&M University, Clark Atlanta University, and Spelman College
• 3rd Place: Lost Souls — Spelman College
About Spelman College:
Founded in 1881, Spelman College is a leading liberal arts college widely recognized as the global leader in the education of women of African descent. Located in Atlanta, the College’s picturesque campus is home to 2,300 students. Spelman is the country's leading producer of Black women who complete Ph.D.s in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). The College’s status is confirmed by the U.S. News & World Report, which ranked Spelman No. 39 among all liberal arts colleges, No. 19 for undergraduate teaching, No. 2 for social mobility among liberal arts colleges, and No. 1 for the 17th year among historically Black colleges and universities. Recent initiatives include a designation by the Department of Defense as a Center of Excellence for Minority Women in STEM, a Gender and Sexuality Studies Institute, the first endowed queer studies chair at an HBCU and a program to increase the number of Black women Ph.D.s in economics. New majors and minors have been added, including documentary filmmaking and photography, data science, refugee studies and gaming. Collaborations have been also established with MIT’s Media Lab, the Broad Institute and the Army Research Lab for artificial intelligence and machine learning, among others.
To learn more, please visit website (HERE) and @spelmancollege on social media.
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Four-Student Team Presented Social-First “FinCheck” Campaign Targeting Gen Z to Promote Greater Financial Literacy
COSTA MESA, CA — March 03, 2026 — For the second consecutive year, a four-student team from Fisk University took the top prize in the 2026 #IYKYK Pitch Competition (If You Know, You Know) for their idea to amplify Experian’s Big Financial Friend campaign, sponsored by Experian and HomeFree-USA.
Nicknamed Team F2, Hannah Daniel, Habeebah Dawodu, Remi Adeshina, and Kanchan Thapa earned a $40,000 prize for their presentation, “FinCheck.” A social-first campaign inspired by the viral “fit check” trend, the campaign invites Gen Z users to post regular “fin check” videos to normalize discussions around financial health, making it as routine and shareable as personal style. In addition, on-campus and social-media influencer activations will amplify awareness around basic financial wellness services, such as credit locking, score simulations and subscription cancellation. A team from Fisk University also won the 2025 competition.
“We came into this competition and said we’re going to put our best foot forward, we’re going to get up here, have fun and we’re going to leave a lasting impact. This is just beyond words,” said Hannah Daniel, biology and business administration major from Fisk University and captain of Team F2.
The #IYKYK Pitch Competition, powered by Experian’s B.A.L.L. for Life initiative, challenged students to develop a bold, culturally relevant campaign that builds on Experian’s concept of being a “Big Financial Friend” (BFF) to their peers and communities. Generation Z consumers carry an average $94,101 in personal debt, the highest compared to other generations.
The competition was the culmination of the Experian Credit Academy created for the Center for Financial Advancement® (CFA). For the first time, the National Urban League’s network of schools joined the academy and competition. More than 300 students from 22 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Minority Serving Institutions came together in live sessions with Experian credit education experts and self-paced modules. Finalists from Alabama State University and Grambling State University also presented their ideas live at Experian’s North America headquarters and each team received a $10,000 prize.
“Experian’s Credit Academy and #IYKYK Pitch Competition aims to modernize and normalize the conversation around money and credit in a fun and culturally relevant way for young adults. Our partnerships with HomeFree-USA, CFA and the National Urban League are essential in helping us reach and empower the next generation of leaders. We were inspired to see how these scholars lean into the learning and proactively share their knowledge as BFFs for their peers and communities,” said Raudy Perez, Senior Director of External Inclusion and Belonging Partnerships for Experian North America.
“Experian’s #IYKYK Pitch Competition gives students the chance to turn knowledge into action. When students connect classroom learning to real-life financial scenarios, their understanding of credit and financial literacy deepens in powerful ways. Exploring how they can become Big Financial Friends for their peers and communities inspires them to become confident advocates who share what they’ve learned,” said LuWanna Williams, Ed.D., University Director for the Center for Financial Advancement®.
Click this here to access photos, b-roll and soundbites.
About HomeFree-USA:
HomeFree-USA is a nonprofit started by Marcia and Jim Griffin in 1994 with a vision to close the homeownership gap. The organization gives African Americans the guidance they need to achieve and sustain homeownership, and bridges the gap between financial strength and homeownership for people of color across America.
As a HUD-intermediary, HomeFree-USA serves the diverse interests of 6.3 million consumers through its nationwide network of over 50 affiliated community-based nonprofits that specialize in guiding people to first-time homeownership, sustainability and increased financial capacity. For more information visit website HERE.
About Center for Financial Advancement®:
The Center for Financial Advancement® (CFA) is a solution to the industry’s call for more diversity. HomeFree-USA partners with, recruits, trains and places students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) into internships and careers in partnering mortgage, real estate, and financial services companies. Participating CFA Scholars are exposed to credit, money management and homeownership in order to become a savvy consumer and future homeowner.
About Experian:
Experian is a global data and technology company, powering opportunities for people and businesses around the world. We help to redefine lending practices, uncover and prevent fraud, simplify healthcare, deliver digital marketing solutions, and gain deeper insights into the automotive market, all using our unique combination of data, analytics and software. We also assist millions of people to realize their financial goals and help them to save time and money.
We operate across a range of markets, from financial services to healthcare, automotive, agri-finance, insurance, and many more industry segments.
We invest in talented people and new advanced technologies to unlock the power of data and to innovate. A FTSE 100 Index company listed on the London Stock Exchange (EXPN), we have a team of 25,200 people across 33 countries. Our corporate headquarters are in Dublin, Ireland. Learn more at HERE.
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New Grant Fund Will Award $10,000–$20,000 to Organizations Advancing Environmental and Climate Justice for Black Girls, Women, and Femme-Identifying Youth.
SELMA, AL — February 26, 2026 — Southern Black Girls and Women's Consortium (Southern Black Girls) launched its Environment and Climate Justice Fund, a new grant initiative dedicated to supporting organizations that advocate for and build solutions around environmental and climate justice impacting Black girls, women, and femme-identifying youth in the South. The application deadline is March 10, 2026.
With the launch of the Environment and Climate Justice Fund, Southern Black Girls deepens its commitment to resourcing those who are on the frontlines of the climate crisis in the South. The fund will provide grants ranging from $10,000 to $20,000 to underfunded organizations that center Black women and girl-led organizations who are advancing environmental and climate justice through mitigation, resilience, and policy change. Eligible organizations must operate in one of 13 Southern states: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia.
The launch of the Environment and Climate Justice Fund reflects a natural extension of the organization's mission. Chanceé Lundy, Executive Director of Southern Black Girls and a distinguished environmental engineer by training, brings decades of expertise at the intersection of environmental justice and community empowerment. In 2024, she was invited by the U.S. Embassy in Bogotá, Colombia, to engage with leaders, activists, and women entrepreneurs on shared challenges around climate change, equity, and economic empowerment.
"For more than twenty years, I've worked alongside communities and know first-hand that communities of color experience the disproportionate impacts from environmental pollution and climate change. Black women are often on the front lines advocating for justice and building innovative - community based solutions with little to no resources, said Chanceé Lundy. "We are proud to launch a fund that directly resources those leaders who are building resiliency, advocating for equitable environmental and climate policies, and protecting the land, water, and air our communities depend on."
The fund opens during Black Climate Week 2026 (February 21–28), a national campaign led by The Solutions Project and the NAACP now in its sixth year that centers Black communities as hubs of climate innovation and justice. By launching alongside this national moment of recognition, Southern Black Girls is amplifying a clear message: investing in organizations that center Black women and girls is one of the most powerful strategies for building climate resilience in the communities that need it most.
"By centering joy as both resilience and resistance, Southern Black Girls is building a future in which our communities have the infrastructure, resources, and power to survive and thrive amid environmental pollution and climate change," Lundy added. "Black Climate Week reminds us that our communities aren't just surviving climate change—they're solving it. This fund is our investment in those solutions."
For more information on eligibility requirements, key dates, grantseeker workshops, and how to apply, visit website HERE.
About Southern Black Girls and Women's Consortium:
Founded in 2017, the Southern Black Girls and Women's Consortium (Southern Black Girls) is headquartered in Selma, AL and committed to channeling greater resources to underfunded Black women-led organizations across the South. Founded by LaTosha Brown, Felecia Lucky, Alice Eason Jenkins, and Margo Miller, the Consortium operates in 13 Southern states and employs a participatory grantmaking approach that centers Black girls' voices and experiences while supporting racial justice, education, health and wellness, economic mobility, and leadership development. To date, Southern Black Girls has awarded over $11.4 million to more than 250 Black women-led organizations and invested $600,000 in micro-grants to 1,000 Black girls through the Black Girl Joy Challenge. For more information, visit website HERE.
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ATLANTA — February 24, 2026 — Morehouse College has received a prestigious grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to participate in a $457 million project to build one of the most powerful academic supercomputers in the southeast. This historic investment in higher education cyberinfrastructure will elevate Morehouse's ability to provide unprecedented access to world-class computational resources for its students, faculty, and HBCUs nationwide.
The Morehouse Center for Broadening Participation in Computing has received an initial $5 million portion of the NSF grant to start construction on a site that will house the cutting-edge supercomputer, Horizon, part of the NSF's Leadership-Class Computing Facility (LCCF). More funds will be disbursed to support ongoing operations. The supercomputer will push the boundaries of artificial intelligence, providing greater access to areas such as climate modeling, machine learning, and biomedical research.
The computing project is being led by the Texas Advanced Computing Center at the University of Texas at Austin. As a primary partner in the LCCF project, Morehouse will play a pivotal role in the deployment of Horizon. In addition to housing the system, Morehouse will serve as a national epicenter for programmatic support, leading free initiatives such as a summer enrichment program for middle and high school boys, a postbaccalaureate program in artificial intelligence, and three weeklong faculty accelerators in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, focused on research, teaching, and grant proposal writing.
"Morehouse College is honored to partner with the NSF and the University of Texas at Austin on this transformative project," said Dr. F. DuBois Bowman, 13th President of Morehouse College. "By hosting one of the Southeast's most powerful academic supercomputers, we are providing HBCUs with unprecedented computational power to explore bold ideas, accelerate discovery, and unleash new frontiers of creativity and innovation. This investment positions our students and faculty to help shape the future of science, technology, and global problem-solving."
"This contribution cements Morehouse's place as the undisputed HBCU leader in artificial intelligence," says Dr. Kinnis Gosha, Principal Investigator of the grant and Hortinius I. Chenault Endowed Professor and Chair of Computer Science. "As a national resource provider, we will empower other HBCUs and non-research-intensive institutions to contribute to growing their research capacity and enhancing student learning."
The NSF partnership underscores Morehouse College's commitment to academic rigor and its growing influence as a leader in global STEM research. It reinforces the College's position as a champion for equity in the technological landscape, a field with a workforce that is still lacking diversity. According to national labor statistics, some 62 percent of tech jobs are held by White Americans.
Morehouse will share its research and project progress at the Integrating Supercomputing-Powered Instruction, Research, and Entrepreneurship (InSPIRE) Workshop, which is held annually in Austin, Texas. The conference offers support to faculty and students using AI research in teaching and entrepreneurial endeavors.
For more information on Morehouse's role in the NSF Leadership-Class Computing Facility or other AI initiatives offered by the Morehouse Center for Broadening Participation in Computing, please visit website (HERE).
About Morehouse College:
Founded in 1867, Morehouse College is the nation's only college founded to educate men of color. Ranked as Georgia's top liberal arts college for men, Morehouse produces more Black men who go on to receive doctorates than any other college in the country and is a top feeder school for Black men entering prestigious graduate schools and MBA programs. Also named Georgia's #1 small college, Morehouse educates a selective group of some 2,800 students each year, 60 percent of whom come from families with household incomes of $40,000 or less, yet many of whom are highly recruited by Fortune 500 companies.
The College has created more Rhodes Scholars than any other HBCU and has the #1 core curriculum among HBCUs nationally. It is the nation's top producer of Black male graduates in the social sciences, and the top HBCU producer of Black male graduates in business administration, management, operations, English, foreign languages, mathematics, statistics, philosophy, religious studies, and physical sciences. As the national epicenter for thought leadership on human rights and equity, Morehouse is committed to helping the nation address the challenges caused by institutional racism, income and health care disparities, lack of access to capital, detrimental public policy, and the need for high-quality education. Learn more about Morehouse College (HERE).
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Powerful Digital Storytelling & In-Person Events Taking Place From
Saturday, February 21— Saturday, February 28
BCW Organizers Ask Cities and Elected Officials to Pledge Support for Black-led Climate Solutions, Such As Community Solar, Resilience Hubs, and Green Affordable Housing
LOS ANGELES — February 24, 2026 — The Solutions Project, NAACP, community groups, creators and universities across the country have kicked-off the 6th annual Black Climate Week, a powerful storytelling campaign celebrating Black leadership in the climate movement. This year's campaign will specifically highlight Black communities that are not only acting as climate innovation hubs, but also leading the fight against power- and water-greedy data centers, one of the most consequential climate issues of our time. The Solutions Project and NAACP will feature these stories on their social media channels, and other major partners and cities including the American Natural History Museum and Newark, New Jersey have already begun hosting in-person Black Climate Week celebrations.
"As Black Climate Week demonstrates, no matter the political landscape, Black communities remain undeterred from leading on intersectional solutions on climate, race, and gender," said Gloria Walton, president and CEO of The Solutions Project. "While the federal government has chosen to ignore the urgency of the climate crisis, frontline communities don't have the luxury to do the same. They are living the worst impacts of climate change, from historic and present day underinvestment to food inequality and unpredictable flooding."
"Black communities understand we have no time to waste," Walton added. "This work isn't just about surviving, it's about thriving and building a more equitable future we all deserve. From green, affordable housing to community-owned solar, climate solutions look like lower energy bills, healthier neighborhoods, and good paying jobs. Black communities are leading, and we need everyone—funders, policymakers, and the public—to stand in solidarity and take back our democracy."
Across the country, Black communities—which are disproportionately impacted by climate change—are developing climate solutions and securing climate policy and legal victories, such as:
"Climate justice is civil rights work, and Black communities have long been at the forefront of fighting environmental harm while advancing solutions that protect our health and our futures," said Abre' Conner, Director of Environmental and Climate Justice, NAACP. "Black Climate Week creates critical space to uplift the leadership, storytelling, and lived experiences of Black communities who are not only most impacted by climate change, but are leading the way forward. The NAACP is proud to join The Solutions Project to highlight why stopping dirty data, critical water infrastructure, making polluters pay, climate disaster resiliency, and other campaigns are Black-led and frontline centered climate solutions rooted in equity and justice for the communities we serve."
In recognition of the political vacuum on climate change at the federal level, The Solutions Project and NAACP are asking local elected officials and cities to pledge to support Black-led climate solutions as part of Black Climate Week and beyond. The City of Newark's Office of Sustainability, Resilience, and Community Transformation has been particularly enthusiastic. It is joining Black Climate Week for a 2nd year by hosting three community-centered events across the city.
"The City of Newark's Office of Sustainability, Resilience, and Community Transformation was inspired by The Solutions Project's Black Climate Week and tailored that vision to Newark's unique story," said Chief Sustainability Officer Nicole Hewitt-Cabral. "Newark Black Climate Week centers Black voices, culture, and creativity while creating space for healing, learning, and practical solutions that respond directly to the environmental realities our communities face every day. This year we are exploring the links between climate and health, uplifting the legacy of Wangari Maathai, and engaging residents through practical workshops like environmental thrifting. These moments show how collective action can drive climate justice and community well-being."
Black Climate Week will run from Saturday, February 21—Saturday, February 28. Visit The Solutions Project's website (HERE) to learn more.
About The Solutions Project:
The Solutions Project is a nonprofit philanthropic organization that funds and amplifies the stories of grassroots climate organizations across the country, most of which are led by women and people of color. The Solutions Project has provided tens of millions of dollars in grants and communications support to more than 130 organizations in 39 states and the territory of Puerto Rico.
About NAACP:
The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st-century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.
NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP-LDF - was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.
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Direct Relief Funding Will Support Community-led Digital Health Access to Midwives, Doulas in Rural U.S. Communities
CHICAGO — February 24, 2026 — The Black Directors Health Equity Agenda (BDHEA) has been awarded a $180,000, two-year grant from Direct Relief to support efforts aimed at improving access to maternal health care through digital applications in rural areas across the United States.
The grant provides midwives and doulas, remote health monitoring, virtual care, referral coordination, and secure, 24/7 patient-provider communication. The program is designed to address persistent healthcare access and equity challenges in maternity care—where pregnant women face higher rates of maternal mortality.
Rural care access gaps have widened in recent years as hospital closures continue to outpace openings and shortages of obstetric providers persist. Nationally, more than 195 rural hospitals have closed since 2005, and millions of women of reproductive age now live in areas with limited or no maternity care services.
"Hospital closures, combined with persistent provider shortages and barriers to technology, mean that pregnant women are increasingly required to travel considerable distances for care—a barrier that contributes to missed appointments, delayed treatment, and economic hardships," says Deborah Phillips, BDHEA Executive Director. "This grant represents a significant milestone in our organization's capacity to expand access and improve long-term health outcomes for hundreds of patients and newborns through digital maternal health."
The program seeks to identify risk factors for maternal complications, including preterm birth—a driver of infant mortality that disproportionately affects Black women. This population faces a maternal mortality rate three times that of white women, and in rural areas, pregnancy-related mortality is as much as two-thirds higher than in metro areas, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Over the two-year grant period, BDHEA will help close the care gap through digital tools that connect pregnant women to culturally responsive care while simultaneously supporting workforce development through the midwives and doulas enrolled in the program. The information, clinical support, and continuity of care offered is aimed at helping pregnant people experience healthier pregnancies, safer deliveries, and stronger postpartum support.
"While many organizations are working to improve maternal health, our program is distinct in its focus on leveraging digital tools to equip midwives and doulas—expanding access while strengthening trust and reliable care in rural communities," says Yolanda Lawson, M.D., an OB-GYN, Past President of the National Medical Association, and member of the BDHEA Clinical Steering Council.
The program grant was awarded by Direct Relief's Fund for Health Equity through the support of the AbbVie Foundation, Eli Lilly and Company, and MacKenzie Scott. Launched in 2021, the Fund has provided assistance to organizations focused on diversification to the healthcare workforce, reducing health disparities, and leveraging technology and innovation to improve access to reliable care.
About BDHEA
Founded in 2020, the Black Directors Health Equity Agenda (BDHEA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and the first and only national entity led by Black board directors and senior healthcare leaders committed to eliminating health disparities through governance leadership. Today, BDHEA comprises a network of more than 500 board members, senior leaders, educators, and volunteers. Through national convenings, toolkits, and policy advocacy, the BDHEA equips leaders to translate data into action and boardrooms into engines for equity. Its flagship resources—including the Directors Playbook and Health Equity Toolkits—support governance strategies that drive measurable, lasting change in areas including health care access, affordability, treatment, and outcomes. Learn more at BDHEA.org (HERE).
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Celebrating Black Women Over 40
ATLANTA — February 24, 2026 — In celebration of International Women's Day and Women's History Month, The Doux will host and present Our Kind of Women, a photography exhibit and cultural storytelling experience honoring Black women over 40 who are boldly defining radiance, power, and purpose on their own terms. In creative partnership with actor, director and Philanthropist Terri J. Vaughn, the event will take place Sunday, March 8 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at The Doux headquarters and will feature a public gallery exhibition and private reception. Terri J. Vaughn has a long-standing history of advocating for women throughout the length of her career and has been instrumental in growing awareness for this project.
Created by photographer and visual storyteller Bessie Akuba Winn, Our Kind of Women is an ongoing photography exhibit, forthcoming coffee-table book, and growing community movement dedicated to celebrating multigenerational Black women who embody authenticity, creative excellence, and self-defined beauty. Featured participants include actress Terri J. Vaughn, Joi Gilliam, Rashan Ali, Dawn Montgomery, and Maya Smith.
As the official presenting sponsor, The Doux will host the Atlanta exhibition and community gathering, bringing together art, storytelling, and conversation in recognition of the cultural impact and continued influence of Black women in their prime.
"When I first saw this project, it felt familiar to me," said Maya Smith, co-founder and CEO of The Doux. "It's about Black women being seen where we are right now in our lives. So many of us over 40 are still building, still creating, still evolving. We don't age out of relevance. We grow into ourselves. Supporting Bessie and Our Kind of Women felt natural because it reflects the kind of visibility and representation we truly believe in here at The Doux."
About The Doux:
The Doux is an award-winning, independent, Black-owned and veteran-owned haircare brand founded by Maya and Brian Smith. Built from behind-the-chair expertise, the brand creates salon-grade products designed for performance, culture, and real life. The Doux is available nationwide at Target, Walmart, CVS, and internationally. Known for its intersection of beauty, music, and community, The Doux continues to champion creativity, representation, and innovation in the beauty industry. Website (HERE). Follow The Doux on Instagram @ilovethedoux.
About Bessie Akuba Winn:
Bessie Akuba Winn is a photographer and visual storyteller and the creator of Our Kind of Women celebrating Black women over 40. Her work uses portraiture and conversation to create space for Black women to be seen, honored, and reflected with honesty and care. Website (HERE).
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Recipients Will Preserve U.S. History and Develop the Future Workforce
WASHINGTON, DC — February 20, 2026 — The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) has continued its commitment to Historically Black Colleges and Universities through its FY 2025 slate of discretionary grant recipients. Eight HBCUs and one HBCU alliance received a total of $1,725,261, furthering President Trump's commitment to advancing HBCU excellence, as outlined in this White House Executive Order (HERE).
Keith Sonderling, Deputy Secretary of Labor said:
"President Trump's commitment to support our nation's HBCUs has been lived out through these grants. IMLS awards to HBCUs in FY 2025 are furthering the President's commitments, preserving American historical and cultural treasures, increasing institutional resilience and emergency preparedness, and enhancing research activities. Each of the projects IMLS funded furthers the work of HBCU-affiliated museums and libraries while creating hands-on learning opportunities for students and emerging library and museum professionals."
Some of the awarded HBCU projects are detailed below:
FY 2026 Notice of Funding Opportunities are now live. (More Info Here).
About the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS):
The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation's libraries and museums. We advance, support, and empower America's museums, libraries, and related organizations through grantmaking, research, and policy development. IMLS envisions a nation where individuals and communities have access to museums and libraries to learn from and be inspired by the trusted information, ideas, and stories they contain about our natural and cultural heritage.
To learn more, visit www.imls.gov (HERE) and follow us on Instagram (HERE) and LinkedIn (HERE).
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The Free, Global Streaming Service Embraces the New Era of Entertainment with a Mobile-First Viewing Experience Designed for the Next Era of Culturally Resonant Storytelling
LOS ANGELES — February 19, 2026 — Launching during Black History Month, Mansa, the free streaming platform for curated global Black content, today unveiled a new vertical micro-drama feature inside the Mansa app, expanding its mobile-first approach to the original storytelling ecosystem. Purpose-built for serialized, short-form content, the platform debuts with The Heiress, The Baller & The Secret Society, a 27-episode original vertical micro-drama available exclusively on Mansa. As short-form vertical content continues to grow as a major category in entertainment, Mansa is expanding into the format with a focus on scripted storytelling, cultural specificity, and creator opportunity.
“Vertical storytelling gives us the ability to deliver high-impact narratives that reflect modern viewing habits while still honoring the depth, nuance, and artistry our community deserves,” said Nate Parker, Co-Founder and CEO of Mansa. “From the beginning, our mission has been to build a platform where Black creators globally can thrive and experiment. This new vertical experience opens the door to an entirely new creative frontier.”
The launch marks an important step for Mansa, expanding beyond traditional long-form streaming into narratives purpose-built for mobile viewing and offering audiences stories in shorter, episodic formats without sacrificing emotional weight or production value. Available natively within the Mansa app in the US, UK, Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, South Africa and Brazil, the vertical micro-drama experience requires no VPN, making culturally resonant storytelling instantly accessible to global audiences.
The vertical micro-drama experience lives exclusively in the Mansa app, developed to support a growing slate of short-form originals throughout 2026 and beyond. In addition to premium releases, the feature offers emerging Black creators opportunities to experiment with serialized storytelling, build audiences within the Mansa ecosystem, and engage with a rapidly evolving content format.
The first title to launch on the platform, The Heiress, The Baller & The Secret Society, is a romantic thriller about love, power, and the dangerous cost of legacy, told across 27 bite-sized episodes designed for mobile audiences. Produced by Nate Parker and Ammon Lyle, directed by Byron Manuel, and starring Shala White, Cortney Elise, Justin Davis, and Diego Escobar, the series centers on a young heiress forced into an arranged engagement to protect her family’s empire. The series joins the thousands of hours of films and series, along with more than 25 live TV channels, currently available for free in the Mansa app and is the first release in Mansa’s 2026 vertical micro-drama slate, with additional originals to be announced in the coming months.
Mansa is the only streaming service with a fully integrated technology stack designed to support vertical serialized storytelling, enabling creators to release micro-dramas and allowing viewers to watch and pay per episode directly within the app.
About Mansa Studios:
Mansa Studios is a global media company and studio showcasing diaspora-focused content for a worldwide audience. Co-founded by award-winning filmmakers David Oyelowo and Nate Parker, Mansa creates and distributes the culture that shapes global culture through film, television, short-form content, and a growing portfolio of digital platforms, including its free, ad-supported streaming service and 24/7 digital linear channels. Operating as a full-service studio and distribution company, Mansa supports projects across the entire lifecycle- from theatrical release to digital, streaming, and emerging formats, including vertical micro-dramas. Available across connected TV and mobile devices, Mansa has raised $12 million in seed funding led by MaC Venture Capital, with participation from WndrCo, Galaxy Investment Partners, Base Ventures, Rainmaker Films, Black Capital VC, K Period Media, and Robert F. Smith.
To learn more, visit www.mansa.com (HERE).
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Fourteen High-Achieving American College Students Selected for Transformative Summer Internship Program in Dublin
PORTLAND, ME — February 18, 2026 — The Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE) is pleased to announce the 2026 Frederick Douglass-Daniel O'Connell Global Interns, a diverse cohort of 14 exceptional students who will participate in an eight-week international internship program in Dublin, Ireland.
Co-sponsored by CIEE, Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs, the African American Irish Diaspora Network (AAIDN), and the John & Lillian Miles Lewis Foundation, the Frederick Douglass-Daniel O'Connell Global Internship program honors two iconic leaders in the global movement for freedom, equality, social justice, and economic mobility by preparing young professionals for future and career success.
More than 500 students applied from hundreds of institutions of higher education, including Ivy League schools, historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), private colleges, and flagship public universities.
The 2026 Douglass-O'Connell Global Interns in Ireland are:
Students were selected from a highly competitive pool of applicants based on their demonstrated interest in gaining practical work experience in Ireland; their desire to emulate the business acumen and social justice reform of Frederick Douglass and Daniel O'Connell; their values in equality, entrepreneurship, and advocacy; and their commitment to pursuing a better, more inclusive world.
Thanks to sponsorship by the John & Lillian Miles Lewis Foundation, four spots in the cohort were dedicated to students attending colleges in the district that Congressman John Lewis represented for more than 30 years.
The 2026 Douglass-O'Connell Global Interns are featured in this video.
During the program, students will intern with Ireland-based companies, attend lectures on Irish history and culture, and participate in extracurricular and networking activities in Dublin, Cork, and Belfast. Students choose from dozens of internship placement opportunities, including roles in media, technology, transportation, and human rights advocacy. Each student receives an internship placement, academic lectures, housing, airfare, and a living stipend.
"The Douglass-O'Connell program introduces a new generation of young leaders to today's diverse and vibrant Ireland," said James P. Pellow, Ed.D., President and CEO of CIEE. "It's a privilege to partner with AAIDN, Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs, and the John & Lillian Miles Lewis Foundation to help increase diversity abroad as we also help unite the diverse and global Irish diaspora."
"Congressman Lewis believed in the power of young people to advance justice and build the beloved community," said Michael Collins, Chair of the John and Lillian Miles Lewis Foundation. "We are proud to support four exceptional students in this year's program. By expanding their global perspectives and leadership skills in Ireland, this experience helps equip the next generation to carry forward Congressman Lewis' legacy of creating 'Good Trouble' and making the world a better place."
"The Frederick Douglass-Daniel O'Connell Global Internship program builds inclusive bridges of understanding and opportunity between Ireland and America," said Dennis Brownlee, Founder and President of the African American Irish Diaspora Network. "We are pleased to again support this transformative program."
To help expand access to international opportunities, all eligible applicants who were not selected as one of the 2026 Douglass-O'Connell Global Interns in Ireland will receive a $1,500 Douglass-O'Connell Scholars Grant, which may be applied toward any of CIEE's 200+ summer or semester study abroad programs through summer 2027.
For more information about CIEE's Frederick Douglass–Daniel O'Connell Global Internship in Ireland, visit ciee.org/fddo.
About CIEE:
Since 1947, CIEE has built bridges between different people, countries, and cultures through study abroad and international exchange programs that advance peace in our world. We change lives; our alumni change the world. Learn more at ciee.org HERE.
About AAIDN:
Since 2020, the African American Irish Diaspora Network has fostered relationships between African Americans, Ireland, and the Irish Diaspora. AAIDN promotes programs in education, the arts, entrepreneurship, and culture that unite African American and Irish communities. AAIDN's mission is supported by Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs and the government of Northern Ireland. Learn more at aaidnet.org HERE.
About the John and Lillian Miles Lewis Foundation (JLMLF):
The John and Lillian Miles Lewis Foundation, Inc. was conceived by Congressman Lewis to carry on his and his wife's passion for purposeful living, civic engagement and building the "beloved community," and to inspire and support Good Trouble. For more information, visit jlmlf.org HERE.
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First-Of-Its-Kind Initiative Rallies Alumni - $25,000 Raised at Launch As Momentum Builds Toward $100,000 Goal
PINE BLUFF, AR — February 17, 2026 — The Gold Standard Collective and SOCIAL HOUSE® Vodka have officially launched their nationwide Raise the Roar Campaign in support of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) Athletics. A bold new movement to rally alumni, community leaders, and corporate supporters in raising $100,000 for Golden Lion student-athletes.
The launch follows a sold-out leadership unveiling held February 6 in Pine Bluff, where early supporters pledged over $25,000 toward the campaign’s $100,000 goal. The event marked the official debut of the 1873 Gold Standard Legacy Bottle, an exclusive collector’s release in partnership with Social House Vodka and The Gold Standard Collective.
“This campaign represents leadership in action,” said Chris Robinson, Athletic Director at UAPB. “When our coaches, alumni, and community leaders step forward together, we create real opportunity for our student-athletes. ‘Raise the Roar’ is about accountability to our mission and investing in young people who represent UAPB with pride every day.”
Crafted to honor UAPB’s founding year, the 1873 Gold Standard bottle features iconic campus imagery, black-and-gold branding, and the Golden Lion emblem. Only 1,873 numbered cases will be produced. Each purchase supports scholarships, wellness, and career development for UAPB student-athletes.
“This is a challenge,” added Sam Barnes Jr., President of The Gold Standard Collective. “Raise the Roar is about alumni leadership, chapter by chapter, city by city, stepping forward to support the next generation of Golden Lions.”
Orders begin shipping March 1, 2026. Once all 1,873 cases are claimed, the collection will close permanently. The limited-edition collection is now available for pre-order at socialhousevodka.com/products/uapb
Cary Joshi, Founder of Social House Vodka, stated: “We created this campaign to prove that community pride could power real change. Pine Bluff showed us what’s possible when passion meets a platform and UAPB alumni are setting the gold standard.”
About The Gold Standard Collective:
A 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to advancing the legacy of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff by supporting student-athletes with scholarships, wellness initiatives, and career development. Website HERE.
About Social House Vodka:
Social House Vodka is a farm-to-flask premium spirit crafted for moments that matter. Rooted in community and driven by purpose, Social House transforms pride into progress through its Every Sip Counts™ platform—partnering with universities, alumni networks, and local leaders to fund impact where it’s needed most. From the field to the glass, Social House is where legacy meets lifestyle.
About UAPB Athletics:
As the heartbeat of Arkansas’s oldest historically Black public university, UAPB Athletics represents a proud tradition of excellence, resilience, and community impact. With deep roots in the SWAC and a legacy dating back to 1873, Golden Lion student-athletes compete with purpose—on the field, in the classroom, and as leaders in the Arkansas Delta and beyond. As a land-grant institution, UAPB continues to be a cultural, academic, and athletic cornerstone for the region and HBCU sports nationwide. Website HERE.
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In Celebrating the Legacy of HBCUs, the Event Features Resources, Opportunities and Access to Over 200 Colleges and Other Training and Career Connections
WALNUT, CA — February 14, 2026 — National College Resources Foundation (NCRF), will host its 27th Annual Los Angeles Black College Expo™ on Saturday, February 14, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., at a new location in L.A. County, at the Pomona Fairplex, 1101 W. McKinley Avenue, Pomona, CA 91768.
The Los Angeles Black College Expo™ celebrates Black History Month with an array of opportunities for students across Southern California. Open to high school students, college students, and adult learners, the expo creates a powerful space where futures begin. Students will have direct access to resources, funding and access to higher education and career training.
Students and families will be able to connect with over 200 colleges, universities, workforce training programs, and community organizations committed to student success. Employers and workforce partners will also be on-site to share information about internships, apprenticeships, training programs, and career pathways that lead to long-term economic mobility.
Highlighting the rich history and legacy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), the expo also empowers students to explore pathways that align with their academic goals, career interests, and personal purpose. Select colleges and institutions will offer application fee waivers, scholarships, and on-the-spot admissions, helping to remove financial and procedural barriers to enrollment.
In addition to college and career access, attendees will engage in interactive seminars such as 411 for Student Athletes and How to Start a Business & Maintain it Powered by Comerica Bank. Sessions will also include NCRF Celebrity Ambassadors – How to Get A's in English featuring Hip Hop Legend Yo-Yo, featuring Blessed Mode author Actor/Comedian Kel Mitchell and From Dreams 2 Realities featuring Actor/Comedian London Brown. Wells Fargo will lead a special Financial Health Series with the opportunity for students to receive a match incentive towards their account.
Auditions for Band Scholarships will take place on-site, with thousands of dollars available. Interested students should bring their instruments and be prepared to meet with HBCU band directors. Students will also experience a special “LIVE” HBCU Cultural Spotlight, complete with a dance audition workshop taught by Divas of Compton Founder Kehli Berry and a special performance by the Divas of Compton. NCRF is also excited to welcome new Celebrity Ambassador, Television Personality Ace Greene from Love Island USA Season 7.
“Our Los Angeles Expo marks 27 years of changing lives through access to education. That it’s on Valentine’s Day and during Black History Month is a powerful reminder of possibilities. We celebrate that power of love,” said Dr. Theresa Price, Founder and CEO of the National College Resources Foundation.
Presented by National College Resources Foundation, the 27th Annual Los Angeles Black College Expo™ is sponsored by Active Minds, California Community Colleges HBCU Transfer Guarantee, Casualty Actuarial Society, Comerica Bank, Edison International Foundation, Foundation Clothing, Honda, Huston-Tillotson University, Los Angeles Community College District, Los Angeles Department of Water & Power, NCRF-TV, U.S. Army, America’s Navy, United States Help Desk Academy, US Bank, Good Molecules, and Wells Fargo.
The Los Angeles Black College Expo™ is open to students of all backgrounds and their families. Pre-registration is encouraged. To learn more or for tickets, visit www.thecollegeexpo.org/ncrf-events/eventsor call 877-427-4100.
Founded in 1999, National College Resources Foundation hosted its first Black College Expo™ in 2000 in Los Angeles, California, drawing more than 35,000 attendees. Since then, NCRF has continued in its mission to change lives through education by helping over 700,000 students gain access to higher education and facilitating more than $5 billion in scholarships and grants.
Follow NCRF on Twitter: @ncrfoundation
Instagram: @ncrfoundation.org
Subscribe to NCRF TV on YouTube: youtube.com/c/NCRFTVNetwork
Support NCRF’s mission to connect underserved students to college, careers, and beyond: https://ncrfoundation.charityproud.org
About National College Resources Foundation (NCRF):
Beginning its 27th year, National College Resources Foundation (NCRF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational enhancement organization serving over 200,000 students annually through a variety of impactful programs and initiatives, including its College Expos™, The Movement Enrichment Program, STEAM Program, Internship & Careers Program, Latino Community Engagement and Student Athletic Programs (SAP). Founded in 1999 by Dr. Theresa Price, NCRF’s mission is to curtail the high school dropout rate and increase degree and/or certificate enrollment among underserved, at-risk, low-resource, homeless and foster students. NCRF’s vision is to close the gap in educational achievement, workforce and economic disparities.
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Lance Gross, DJ Denny K, Supa DJ Big L, Heavy Hitter DJ Double J, DJ Quick Silva, Frank Ski, DJ Tanz, Entrepreneur Pinky Cole, WNBA's Sonia Chase, and More
CHARLOTTE, NC — February 12, 2026 — As Black History Month reaches a powerful finale, the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA®), is once again turning Baltimore into the capital of culture, competition, and celebration. The nation’s first and oldest historically Black athletic conference is bringing multi-platinum hip-hop superstar 2Chainz and R&B icon Mýa to CFG Bank Arena to headline official CIAA Events happening during the 2026 Food Lion CIAA Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournament February 24 to February 28.
This is more than a championship tournament -- “#February Is CIAA,” - a living annual celebration of Black excellence, legacy and HBCU pride. Each year, 100,000 alumni, students, families and fans across the country head to Charm City to close out Black History Month at one of the most anticipated sporting events in America.
Now in its 5th year in Baltimore, the CIAA tournament has generated over $100 million in economic impact since moving to Baltimore and awards millions of dollars in scholarships to student-athletes. It has helped shape generations of leaders on and off the court.
The action tips off Tuesday, February 24th at 10 a.m. ET, showcasing the CIAA’s 12-member institutions and features 22 fast-paced men’s and women’s championship matchups. Beyond the court, CIAA tournament week delivers a full-scale cultural experience, including Fan Fest, Career Expo/Education Day/Community Service Initiatives, Step Shows/A-List Performances/CIAA Parties, The John B. McClendon Jr. CIAA Hall of Fame Breakfast, and Town halls and symposiums focused on education, health, financial wellness, and innovation.
The Tournament weekend will also feature 9 official parties:
* Thursday, February 26th - StaDAYium Welcome Happy Hour at Horseshoe Casino
* Friday, February 27th - Ditch Day Party, StaDAYium “All Black Edition” Party, and Tip Off Friday Party with 2Chainz
* Saturday, February 28 -StaDAYium Events at Power Plant Live!, R&B4Me Curated Events hosted by Mya, and Overtime Midnight Brunch at Horseshoe Casino
Tickets On Sale Now. To purchase tickets, and get the latest information about the CIAA, visit CIAATournament.org HERE.
For a limited time, fans can take advantage of BOOK WITH A BESTIE ticket sale by hitting “unlock” when selecting Tournament tickets and using code BFF26 for 2 General Admission tickets for $80 or 4 for $160 (Thursday, Friday or Saturday Single Session General Admission tickets - plus fees) valid through February 28.
For more Tournament information, fans can also like us on Facebook, and follow us on X, Instagram, and Twitch.
About the CIAA:
Founded in 1912, the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) is the first and longest running African American athletic conference in the U.S., and one of the most recognized conferences in Division II. The CIAA conducts 14 championships attended by more than 150,000 fans from around the country. The Basketball Tournament has been honored as a 2019 Champion of Economic Impact in Sports Tourism by Sports Destination Management, the leading publication with the largest circulation of sports event planners and tournament directors in the sports tourism market, for both 2018 and 2019.
Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, the CIAA is governed by the Presidents and Chancellors of its 12 member institutions: Bowie State University, Bluefield State University, Claflin University, Elizabeth City State University, Fayetteville State University, Johnson C. Smith University, Lincoln University of Pennsylvania, Livingstone College, Shaw University, Virginia State University, Virginia Union University, and Winston-Salem State University. For more information on the CIAA, visit theciaa.com, like us on Facebook, and follow us on X and Instagram.
About Visit Baltimore:
Visit Baltimore is the official sales and marketing arm for the City of Baltimore. The 501(c)(6) non-profit organization generates economic benefits for stakeholders through the attraction of convention, group, and leisure visitors. In 2022, 26.7 million people visited Baltimore for overnight and day trips, spending a total of $3.7 billion toward Baltimore’s economy. For more information, please visit Baltimore.org.
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RALEIGH, NC — February 11, 2026 — North Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities (NCICU) celebrated an important milestone this weekend as student teams from across the state gathered at the North Carolina Legislative Complex for the 15th Annual Ethics Bowl. This year's competition, centered on the theme "Ethics in Leadership," culminated in a historic first as Johnson C. Smith University became the first Historically Black College/University (HBCU) to reach the finals and prevail as champion.
The competition brought together 18 student teams for two days of arguments on their positions on the cases and critical analysis of complex ethical dilemmas. Final scores were tallied, semi-finalists were announced, and the two matches were set: NC Wesleyan University and Wingate University were paired, as were Catawba College and Johnson C. Smith University. NC Wesleyan met Johnson C. Smith in the final round.
"The Ethics Bowl is a showcase of the NCICU experience, and Johnson C. Smith's outstanding team presentations during our 15th anniversary year were remarkable," said NCICU President Dr. A. Hope Williams. "This event highlights the intellectual rigor and leadership potential across our 36 campuses. We are incredibly proud of all our participants for their ability to navigate difficult ethical landscapes with integrity, collaboration, and profound critical thinking."
The event kicked off on Friday, including an evening keynote address from North Carolina Superintendent of Public Instruction Mo Green. Drawing on his extensive career in public service, Superintendent Green shared personal experiences on the challenges to ethical leadership, encouraging students to maintain their core values throughout their professional journeys.
This year's event also marked a technological leap for the competition. Supported by a capacity-building grant from the Council of Independent Colleges, NCICU implemented a digital scoring system, providing judges with tablets for real-time submission and faster tabulation of results.
The 15th anniversary also served as an opportunity to honor long-time supporters. NCICU recognized four individuals who have served as judges since the event's inception in 2012: Myra Best (Executive Director, digiLEARN), Mike Davis (Mike Davis Public Relations, Inc.), Brooks Raiford (NC Technology Association), and Jack Frost (Retired, Truist).
Additionally, NCICU recognized four campus coordinators for their service in this integral role since the Ethics Bowl's inception. Dr. Adam C. English and Dr. Ken Vandergriff of Campbell University, Dr. Amy MacArthur of High Point University, and Dr. Mark Wells of Montreat College celebrated their consistent years of service and dedication to the event, their campuses, and their students.
The success of the 2026 Ethics Bowl was made possible by the Independent College Fund of North Carolina (ICFNC), the fundraising arm of NCICU, which raised almost $80,000 in sponsorships. NCICU extends its deepest gratitude to the 2026 sponsors: Aramark, BHDP, The Budd Group, Coca-Cola Consolidated, Cherry Bekaert, The Council of Independent Colleges, CPL, Duke Energy, Fortinet, French Broad Electric, Guilford College Center for Principled Problem Solving, Huntington National Bank, IMA Financial Group, Jesse and Kay McCartney, Mt. Olive Pickle Company, NFP, Old North State Trust, Piedmont Natural Gas Foundation, Liz and Steven Riley, Sageview, Truist Bank, A. Hope Williams, and the Wren Foundation.
Click here for more information about the annual NCICU Ethics Bowl and its history.
Click here to view the 2026 NCICU Ethics Bowl photo gallery.
About NCICU:
North Carolina Independent Colleges & Universities (NCICU) is the statewide office of private, nonprofit, liberal arts and research colleges and universities. NCICU supports, represents, and advocates for North Carolina independent higher education in the areas of state and federal public policy and on education issues with the other sectors of education in the state. It also raises funds through the Independent College Fund of North Carolina for student scholarships and enrichment experiences, provides research and information to and about private colleges and universities, conducts staff development opportunities and coordinates collaborative programs. Presidents of the colleges and universities comprise NCICU's Board of Directors.
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Free Genealogy Guide Helps Anyone Begin the Journey to Discover Their Family History
WASHINGTON, DC — February 05, 2026 — Black History Month is a time for the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) to celebrate its members and their diverse heritage, while also educating others about DAR's many initiatives that touch on Black history.
"For so many of our members, finding their family history is a way to celebrate the past but also honor who they are today," said Ginnie Sebastian Storage, DAR President General. "Black History Month is an important time for us to spotlight resources and share stories about Patriots that you may not hear about in history books. We invite everyone to uncover their personal connection to Revolutionary War Patriots and consider membership in the DAR."
The E Pluribus Unum Educational Initiative was launched by DAR in 2020 – inspired by the United States motto translated to "out of many, one" – representing how a single nation emerged from the variety of people who fought for its independence. The initiative is focused on raising awareness of often unknown Revolutionary War Patriots, including those who were Black, Native American and female. Part of that initiative has included expanding on a DAR project that started in the 1980s to identify African Americans, Native Americans and individuals of multiracial ancestry who supported the struggle for independence during the American Revolution. The DAR Patriots of Color Database is a free online research tool to identify and honor people of Black, Indigenous and multiracial heritage who served in or contributed to the American Revolution. The data is also integrated into the 10 Million Names project through a collaboration with American Ancestors.
A free genealogy guide is available for download on the DAR website to help people start their genealogical journey. DAR members say that learning about their lineages and family histories is an important and rewarding part of DAR membership. DAR member Yvonne Liser is a 4th-generation Washingtonian and the DAR State Regent of the District of Columbia. Her DC State Regent project supports digitizing historical records at the Moorland-Spingarn Research Center at Howard University, her alma mater.
For many people of color, genealogy can appear daunting, but Liser says resources are available and she enjoys helping others research their family histories. She descends from David Charity, a Revolutionary War Patriot and free Black man of Surry County, Va. She has multiple Patriots in her family lineage, including John Redman, a free Black man who joined the Revolution in Winchester, Va., and was involved in a skirmish with the Creek tribe while on his way to fight the British in Savannah, Ga.
DAR Member Carla Clarke traces her lineage to Revolutionary War Patriot Cyrus Bustill, who was born into slavery in New Jersey. He purchased his freedom, and baked bread for George Washington's troops at Valley Forge. He hired a child to teach him to read while baking and moved eventually to Philadelphia, where the family's connections to education and community service persist to this day.
Today, Clarke is the National Chair of the E Pluribus Unum Committee and is also the state chair for membership in Pennsylvania. Along with her cousin, DAR member Joyce Mosley, the family celebrates their Patriot ancestor and his role in securing American independence.
"I always wanted to be a teacher and didn't know why," said Clarke. "It wasn't until I became involved in DAR that I realized the educational, artistic, and social justice thread of ancestry still runs through us. It's a calling."
Also located in Philadelphia, DAR member Taryn Kennedy traces her lineage to Revolutionary War Patriot Thomas Stewart, her 7th great grandfather. He was the 18th century's first free Black physician and was of mixed race. He held a land grant signed by Thomas Harrison, a signer of the Declaration of Independence.
Rhode Island's Dymond Bush traces her family lineage to two Revolutionary War Patriots of color from Rhode Island, Michael Anthony and Mingo Pollock. Anthony served in the 1st Rhode Island Regiment, the first integrated U.S. military regiment. Pollock was a free Black man.
As DAR State Regent of Rhode Island, Bush is doing a project illuminating the 1st Rhode Island Regiment through donating books and placing historical markers. She also helps prospective members discover their own Patriots of color by serving as a specialist for African American genealogy research on DAR's Specialty Research Committee.
"Discovering two Patriots of color empowered me to ensure that their service was not forgotten," Bush said. "By joining the DAR, I've been dedicated to sharing the story of Patriots of color, especially the 1st Rhode Island Regiment."
About the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR):
The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution was founded in 1890 to preserve the memory and spirit of those who contributed to securing American independence. Any woman 18 years or older, regardless of race, religion, or ethnic background, who can prove lineal descent from a Patriot of the American Revolution is eligible for membership. Through the DAR Genealogical Research System (www.dar.org/GRS), the public can access a free database of information amassed by the DAR about these Patriots. One of the largest patriotic women's service organizations in the world, DAR has 190,000 members in approximately 3,000 chapters across the country and several foreign countries. DAR members promote historic preservation, education and patriotism via commemorative events, scholarships and educational initiatives, citizenship programs, service to veterans, meaningful community service and more. For additional information about DAR and its relevant mission, https://www.dar.org/.
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The 2026 Expo is set to take place on October 27 in Baltimore City
COLUMBIA, MD — February 04, 2026 — TEDCO, Maryland's economic engine for technology companies, announces the 12th Entrepreneur Expo, set to take place on October 27, 2026, at the Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor. This premier, award-winning event caters to a diverse audience, bringing together investors, entrepreneurs, economic development organizations, international entities and more, making it a key gathering for Maryland's entrepreneurial community, showcasing resources and providing invaluable networking opportunities. In 2025, the event attracted more than 1,150 attendees, 97% of whom declared that their purpose for attending was accomplished.
"The success seen during the 2025 Entrepreneur Expo made one thing clear—Maryland benefits from having an all-encompassing event like this," said TEDCO CEO Troy LeMaile-Stovall. "Last year alone, the event offered connection opportunities for more than 100 exhibitors, two pitch competitions, four international agreement announcements and plenty of energy to push the entrepreneurial ecosystem forward. It is because of this that we are bringing it back, better than ever."
The Entrepreneur Expo is a vibrant platform that allows entrepreneurs, business owners, investors, legislators, influencers and international entities to connect, learn and be inspired. Interested attendees can expect another full day of engaging workshops, insightful discussions and dynamic pitches from emerging innovators.
"TEDCO remains committed to supporting the growth of the Maryland ecosystem as we lead innovation to market, and this event has proved time and time again to be an excellent accelerator for this growth," said Tammi Thomas, chief development & marketing officer, TEDCO. "Last year, we saw more than 23 sessions, more than 100 speakers, and a reception that brought everyone together after a day of learning and inspiration. We look forward to collaborating with entities across the globe to bring forth another amazing event that will open paths for innovative growth."
Registration is officially open; make sure to secure the early bird rate and get your tickets now: http://www.tedcomdexpo.com/
About TEDCO:
TEDCO, the Maryland Technology Development Corporation, enhances economic empowerment growth through the fostering of an inclusive entrepreneurial innovation ecosystem. TEDCO identifies, invests in, and helps grow technology and life science-based companies in Maryland. Learn more at www.tedcomd.com.
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The investment will help advance medical education for the Gulf South
NEW ORLEANS — February 04, 2026 — The Xavier Ochsner College of Medicine (XOCOM) announced that it has received a $1.75 million grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) to strengthen medical education and healthcare in the Gulf South and beyond. This investment is part of RWJF's $7.5 million commitment to historically Black college and university (HBCU) medical schools, recognizing that their leadership and innovation play an essential role in improving healthcare for all communities.
This planning grant will further enable XOCOM leaders to advance the medical school's development and engage with community stakeholders as they pursue preliminary accreditation with the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME). When it opens, XOCOM will be the fifth allopathic HBCU medical school in the United States, bringing new opportunities to communities in Louisiana and the nation and offering stellar medical education for generations to come. The medical school will create economic opportunities for Louisiana when it opens in Benson Tower within the growing downtown New Orleans BioDistrict.
Through a curriculum that emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, clinical proficiency and compassionate patient care, XOCOM will provide students with immersive learning experiences and hands-on training opportunities. Partnering with Ochsner Health, XOCOM will equip graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to address the complex healthcare challenges of the 21st century and produce physicians who are highly skilled and grounded in their communities.
"A growing body of research shows that physicians who understand the communities in which they practice improve health outcomes by increasing patient trust. Through this medical school, we will train our physician scientists to provide compassionate care for each patient and to find new solutions and therapies," said Leonardo Seoane, MD, FACP, president and founding dean of Xavier Ochsner College of Medicine. "By collaborating with the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, we will advance Xavier University of Louisiana's mission to promote a more just and humane society and Ochsner's vision of inspiring healthier lives and stronger communities."
HBCU medical schools play a critical role in building the nation's health workforce. Although they represent a small fraction of U.S. medical schools, HBCUs produce 70% of Black physicians, according to data from the UNCF. Data shows that a large proportion of HBCU medical graduates pursue careers in primary care, in rural areas and for communities especially in need of medical services, helping to improve access and health outcomes across the country.
"The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation is proud to support the Xavier Ochsner College of Medicine and its commitment to student success and teaching excellence," said Lauren Smith, MD, MPH, vice president of strategic portfolios for RWJF. "HBCU medical schools have long been engines of opportunity, educating the majority of America's Black doctors and dentists. The leadership of these institutions is vital to the ongoing work of building accessible healthcare and training physicians who pursue medicine with dignity and respect."
This investment not only affirms XOCOM's national leadership but also accelerates a vision of a healthcare workforce that is prepared to serve every community's unique needs.
To learn more about XOCOM, please visit: About | Xavier University of Louisiana
About the Xavier Ochsner College of Medicine:
The Xavier Ochsner College of Medicine (XOCOM) was formed in 2024 through partnership between Xavier University of Louisiana (Xavier), a leading historically Black university and college (HBCU), and Ochsner Health (Ochsner), a leading academic health system in the Gulf South. XOCOM will expand the physician workforce and provide new opportunities for more students seeking careers in medicine in New Orleans' downtown area as part of the BioDistrict, a development district that is growing biosciences and the local economy. XOCOM will feature curriculum emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration, clinical proficiency, and compassionate patient care, equipping graduates with the skills and knowledge to address the complex healthcare challenges of the 21st century. Established in 1925 by Saint Katharine Drexel and the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, Xavier is ranked among the top HBCUs in the nation, is a national leader in STEM and health sciences and has been a leading institution in sending its students to graduate from medical schools each year. Additionally, Xavier's College of Pharmacy is among the top producers of African American pharmacists in the United States. Established in 1942, Ochsner is the leading academic nonprofit healthcare provider in the Gulf South that delivers expert care at 46 hospitals and more than 370 health and urgent care centers. In 2025, Ochsner is honored to provide 36 accredited and 12 non-ACGME-accredited programs for more than 370 residents and fellows. XOCOM will open after receiving accreditation, building upon Xavier's mission to promote a more just and humane society by preparing its students to assume roles of leadership and service in a global society, and Ochsner's vision to inspire healthier lives and stronger communities. For more information about XOCOM, visit Xavier Ochsner College of Medicine | Xavier University of Louisiana.
About the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation:
RWJF is a leading national philanthropy dedicated to taking bold leaps to transform health in our lifetime. To get there, we must work to dismantle structural racism and other barriers to health. Through funding, convening, advocacy, and evidence-building, we work side-by-side with communities, practitioners, and institutions to achieve health equity fast and pave the way, together, to a future where health is no longer a privilege, but a right. For more information, visit https://www.rwjf.org/?utm_source=chatgpt.com.
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For the first time, LOV is bringing its signature annual LOV Day to Washington, D.C. and Atlanta through local partnerships
CHICAGO — February 03, 2026 — Celebrating 15 years of empowering Black girls through mentorship, leadership development, and self-love, nationally recognized nonprofit Ladies of Virtue (LOV)is expanding its signature initiative, LOV Day, beyond Chicago for the first time.
This expansion launches "The Year of Virtue," a yearlong celebration of LOV's purpose, impact, and legacy within and beyond its Chicago roots. The Year of Virtue affirms LOV's long-standing belief that strong leadership is built on strong character, centering values such as integrity, courage, and self-worth alongside academic and professional success.
Founded in Chicago by CEO and Founder Jamila Trimuel, Ladies of Virtue has spent the past decade and a half preparing Black girls ages 9 to 24 to succeed academically, professionally, and personally while cultivating confidence, purpose, and civic leadership. Now, in honor of its 15-year milestone, LOV is bringing its highly anticipated annual LOV Day to new cities through partnerships with Stella's Girls Inc. in the Washington, D.C. area and the Campsgiving Foundation in Atlanta, expanding its community-centered model beyond Chicago for the first time. LOV Day, traditionally held during Black History Month and Valentine's Day, is a hallmark celebration centered on self-love, affirmation, and community care. The initiative includes LOV's signature LOV Boxes, thoughtfully curated packages filled with self-care items, affirmations, and educational materials, distributed during interactive workshops designed to uplift and empower Black girls.
"For 15 years, Ladies of Virtue has been committed to making sure Black girls know they are seen, heard, and worthy," said Trimuel. "Expanding LOV Day nationally is not just about growth; it is about impact. The Year of Virtue represents our commitment to reaching more girls, strengthening communities, and grounding leadership in character, not just achievement. We believe strong leaders are built on strong character, and by partnering with trusted organizations in each city, we are honoring the resources already present while adding to them and expanding the reach of love, mentorship, and opportunity."
Through this expansion, LOV and its established community partners will host LOV Day packing events, box distributions, and empowerment workshops. This community-centered approach ensures the initiative remains rooted in local needs while expanding access to love, mentorship, and character-based leadership development for Black girls across state lines.
To date, Ladies of Virtue has served more than 3,000 girls and their families, providing mentorship, college and career readiness programming, and long-term alumni support through its "LOV for Life" model. Graduates continue to receive guidance for up to six years beyond high school, reinforcing LOV's commitment to sustainable, long-term impact.
As LOV enters its next chapter, The Year of Virtue will include multi-city activations, storytelling, community partnerships, and expanded programming, all grounded in the organization's mission to instill purpose, passion, and perseverance in the next generation of Black women leaders.
For more information about Ladies of Virtue and LOV Day, visit https://www.lovchicago.org/.
ABOUT LADIES OF VIRTUE:
Founded in 2011, Ladies of Virtue (LOV) is the leading mentoring and leadership program for Black girls in Chicago, with a mission of instilling purpose, passion, and perseverance in girls ages 9 to 18. For more than 10 years, the organization has empowered Black girls in underserved communities by building their confidence for college and careers, while simultaneously preparing them to become change agents in their communities.
They are the only Chicago-based organization to offer a community-based model that integrates culture, one-on-one mentorship, group mentoring, leadership development, and mental health support exclusively for Black girls. LOV has been recognized by The Obama Foundation, the University of Chicago, and the Chicago Innovation Awards.
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Zelle® and Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, in Partnership with Community Development Investors, Launch New Scholarship to Invest in Black MBA Students Pursuing Small Business Ownership
$100,000 initiative provides tuition funds for HBCU students seeking entrepreneurship through acquisition as 2.9 million of America's small business owners set to retire by 2035
NEW YORK — February 03, 2026 — As millions of American small business owners prepare to retire – and thousands of Main Street businesses face closure – popular person-to-person service Zelle® and the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF), in partnership with Community Development Investors (CDI), today announced a new scholarship for students at select Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) that aspire to keep those businesses alive, local and Black-owned.
"Small businesses across the country depend on Zelle for fast, reliable digital payments," said Denise Leonhard, general manager of Zelle. "As millions of business owners approach retirement, it's critical that we support the next generation through this massive transition, so they are equipped to step in, build trust and keep local businesses moving. Investing in education and access helps make that possible."
The Zelle Community Development & Entrepreneurship Scholarship will award $10,000 tuition grants to 10 MBA students at five HBCUs – Howard University, Jackson State University, Morgan State University, Virginia State University and Claflin University. The scholarship comes at a critical moment, as Black students represent less than 10% of MBA enrollment and only about 3% of U.S. businesses are Black-owned, while nearly 2.9 million baby-boomer small business owners are expected to retire by 2035 in what's known as the "Silver Tsunami."
"We are standing at the edge of a once-in-a-generation economic transition, as millions of small business owners retire and ownership opportunities shift," said U.S. Representative Terri A. Sewell, chair of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Board of Directors. "This partnership with Zelle is about ensuring Black students and aspiring entrepreneurs are not left behind, but instead are positioned to step into ownership, preserve jobs and build generational wealth in communities that have too often been excluded from these pathways."
Donna Fisher-Lewis, senior vice president of resource development at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation went on to say, "At a moment when America's small business landscape is changing rapidly, intentional investment in Black talent and education is essential. Through the Zelle Community Development & Entrepreneurship Scholarship we are expanding access to MBA education and entrepreneurship through acquisition, equipping the next generation of Black business leaders to keep local businesses alive, thriving and rooted in their communities."
The scholarship is being implemented in partnership with Community Development Investors (CDI), an initiative of the Economic Opportunity Coalition (EOC) focused on expanding pathways to business ownership for economically underserved individuals through Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA) and Employee Ownership (EO). CDI has partnered with the five MBA programs eligible for the Zelle scholarship to establish the first-ever ETA Clubs for MBA students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
"We are proud to partner with Zelle to help make entrepreneurship a viable and attainable career option for HBCU MBA students," said Christopher Weaver, executive director of Community Development Investors. "For students from low-wealth and low-income backgrounds, student loan debt can be a real barrier to choosing entrepreneurship over more traditional career paths. The Zelle scholarship reduces that burden and gives students the freedom to pursue business ownership — becoming anchors for jobs, opportunity and long-term wealth in their communities."
Eligible applicants are MBA students that are members of the ETA clubs – a path that allows graduates to buy existing American small business, protect jobs and build long-term wealth through ownership. As a corporate sponsor of CDI, Zelle is committed to expanding access to financial tools and capital for underserved communities and supporting the next generation of American business owners at a moment when it matters most.
"For generations, Howard University has prepared Black leaders to drive economic prosperity," said Dr. Mariko Carson, director of graduate affairs in the School of Business at Howard University. "As business ownership shifts nationwide, this scholarship helps aspiring Black entrepreneurs have a clearer pathway – from the classroom to ownership – to strengthen communities and build lasting generational wealth."
"Virginia State University has a long and proven legacy of educating Black leaders who drive economic innovation and community growth," said Aurelia Nicholas-Donald, PhD, associate professor of Computer Information Systems in the Reginald F. Lewis College of Business at Virginia State University. "As patterns of business ownership evolve across the country, this tuition assistance funding removes financial barriers and accelerates a direct pathway from academic preparation to business ownership—positioning VSU graduates to create sustainable enterprises, reinforce local economies, and generate lasting generational wealth."
"As Maryland's preeminent public urban university, Morgan State University is committed to addressing economic development and economic prosperity," said Royce Burnett, dean of the Earl G. Graves School of Business and Management at Morgan State University. "The ETA tuition assistance program provides a clear pathway to do so by linking the classroom to business ownership and works to build lasting generational wealth."
Applications for the Zelle Community Development & Entrepreneurship Scholarship are open now through March 6, 2026 with recipients announced in April.
For more information, visit cbcfinc.org/scholarships.
About Zelle®:
Zelle® powers fast, reliable person-to-person digital payments, moving more than $1 trillion between millions of consumers and small business accounts at United States banks and credit unions. Available through a network of more than 2,300 financial institutions, Zelle® enables people to send and receive money directly – without cash, checks or third-party apps. Zelle® is owned and operated by Early Warning Services, LLC, which works with America's banks, credit unions and government agencies to drive prosperity, deliver bold innovation and improve how payments are made. Learn more at https://www.zelle.com/.
About the CBCF:
Established in 1976, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) is a non-partisan, nonprofit, public policy, research, and educational institute committed to advancing the global Black community by developing leaders, informing policy, and educating the public. As a 501(c)(3), the CBCF takes no position on legislation or regulatory matters before Congress or any other government agency. Learn more at cbcfinc.org and follow @CBCFinc on all social platforms.
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CHARLOTTE, NC — January 29, 2026 — The Pepsi National Battle of the Bands (NBOTB) announces the airing of The Best of the Battles, the sixth installment of its nationally televised film series celebrating the legacy, excellence, and cultural impact of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) marching bands. Airing January 31 through March 1, 2026, the film honors Black History Month by spotlighting the sound, discipline, and pageantry that define HBCU band culture.
Spanning 15 years and spotlighting more than 30 HBCU marching bands, The Best of the Battles chronicles the evolution of the National Battle of the Bands, capturing unforgettable performances, defining moments, and the lasting cultural influence of HBCU band culture from Charlotte to Houston, and culminating in the 2026 showcase in The Palm Beaches. Narrated by Milan Davis, a Southern University alumna and member of the Famous Dancing Dolls, the film features exclusive interviews while revisiting standout moments that have shaped NBOTB into one of the most impactful HBCU cultural platforms in the country.
The six HBCU marching bands that took the field during the 2026 Pepsi National Battle of the Bands in The Palm Beaches over Martin Luther King, Jr. Weekend a few weeks ago include:
"This film is a celebration of where we've been and where we're going," said Derek Webber, Executive Producer and Creator of the National Battle of the Bands. "The Best of the Battles honors more than a decade of HBCU excellence; the students, the institutions, the culture, and the communities that continue to fuel this movement year after year."
As part of Black History Month programming, The Best of the Battles serves as both a retrospective and a forward-looking tribute, reinforcing the role of HBCU marching bands as cultural ambassadors whose influence extends far beyond the field, from national stages to global audiences.
Airing in select markets nationwide, viewers can find a complete schedule of dates and times at NationalBattleoftheBands.com/films, where trailers and participating broadcast stations are also listed.
Fans are encouraged to tune in, share, and celebrate the legacy of HBCU marching bands throughout Black History Month.
For more information, visit https://www.nationalbattleofthebands.com/ and follow @NationalBattleoftheBands on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, and @NationalBOTB on X (formerly Twitter).
About National Battle of the Bands:
The National Battle of the Bands' (NBOTB) mission is to enhance the exposure of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), their marching bands, and the important roles they play in educating aspiring musicians and developing future leaders in the areas of music, arts, and education.
As one of the largest showcases of HBCU marching bands in the country, NBOTB serves as a platform to inspire the next generation of leaders. To date, the event has awarded over $2.4 million in scholarships to participating institutions, while engaging tens of thousands of fans annually through live performances, educational programming, and community impact initiatives.
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Multi-Day Activation Centered at L.A. LIVE to Feature Exclusive Sneaker Drops, Community Events, and NBA Star Power, including Jayson Tatum, Lonzo Ball, and More
NEW YORK — January 28, 2026 — Foot Locker today announced its return to NBA All-Star 2026 for the third consecutive year with its biggest activation yet in downtown Los Angeles, 'Foot Locker Takeover'. Building on its partnership with the NBA and longstanding leadership position in basketball, this multi-brand immersive experience will bring highly anticipated sneaker drops, top athletes, creator-led content, and community programming together to connect fans with the culture and the city that shaped the game.
The marquee destination at L.A. LIVE will feature distinct areas for top brands like Nike, Jordan Brand, Converse, adidas, PUMA, Crocs, and New Era®. Fans can expect continuous programming, including star-studded appearances, interactive experiences, exclusive product customization, and more, designed to elevate culture and celebrate Los Angeles' basketball community.
This one-of-a-kind experience will deliver an unmatched opportunity for the local community and fans to create memorable moments, highlighted by exclusive appearances from NBA superstars including: Jayson Tatum (New Era), Lonzo Ball (Crocs), and special guest appearances from top Nike, Jordan Brand, and adidas athletes.
'Foot Locker Takeover' will also feature a series of sought after launches in time for the weekend, including the Jordan Retro 4 Lakeshow, Jordan Retro 5 Wolf Grey, Jordan Retro 6 Infrared, Converse SHAI 001, and special Nike Basketball releases featuring the latest innovation and storytelling from Nike's roster of signature athletes. Additional limited releases dropping throughout the weekend will include a highly anticipated adidas collaboration, new and exclusive releases of the Anthony Edwards 2, exclusive PUMA MB.05 LO LA, and more.
"For decades, Foot Locker has built a legacy at the intersection of basketball, culture, and community," said Brett O'Brien, SVP and Chief Marketing Officer, Foot Locker North America. "We're proud to return to basketball's biggest stage with programming and product that reflect our deep-rooted heritage in the game and our commitment to the communities that shape it. By bringing together top athletes, creators, and local voices in Los Angeles, 'Foot Locker Takeover' reinforces our authenticity—celebrating culture, investing in community, and maintaining our leadership as the go-to destination for high-heat launches and the next generation of basketball fans."
The flagship space in partnership with Nike, Jordan Brand, and Converse will spotlight performance, legacy, and innovation in an interactive environment. The multi-brand retail experience will offer high-heat product and a full-size basketball court anchoring 'The Clinic', which will host top athlete appearances, daily programming, skills and drills challenges, and more.
Fans can also explore the adidas ANTLAND neighborhood experience inspired by Anthony Edwards' Atlanta roots, step into the PUMA Hoops Drive-in Cinema powered by the PUMA x Fast & Furious collection showcasing LaMelo Ball's MB.05 and LaFrance in an interactive retail experience, and tap into the Crocs Creator Studio, where influencers will pull up to create content and host product giveaways. New Era will debut an exclusive headwear and apparel collection with Jae Tips, who will be on-site hosting a custom headwear patch station. Fans can also step into the New Era Design Lab to create one-of-a-kind cap and apparel designs through elevated embellishment customization. The New Era 'Cap Spa' will also be open for fans to clean, restore, and refresh headwear.
The 'Foot Locker Takeover' will extend beyond the main activation at L.A. LIVE to the Los Angeles Convention Center at NBA Crossover, nearby Foot Locker stores, and local neighborhoods with inspirational mural art and experiences, bringing together communities that define the city's rich basketball heritage. At the NBA Crossover experience, Kids Foot Locker will pop-up in partnership with Nike for fans to experience the latest releases from the Nike x LEGO Collection.
For the third year in a row, Foot Locker will also be an associate partner of the highly anticipated 2026 NBA HBCU Classic Presented by AT&T, between Hampton University Pirates and North Carolina A&T Aggies men's basketball teams during NBA All-Star. As part of this partnership, the Foot Locker Foundation will be donating $25,000 to each school.
'Foot Locker Takeover' will be located at L.A. LIVE in downtown Los Angeles, California. The activation and retail spaces will be open to the public from Thursday, February 12th – Saturday, February 14 [10 a.m. - 10 p.m. PST] and Sunday, February 15 [10 a.m. -7 p.m. PST].
For the latest updates on programming, sweepstakes for FLX Rewards members, product drops, and appearances, visit FootLocker.com.
About Foot Locker:
Foot Locker is a leading footwear and apparel retailer. With a global presence across North America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, and a licensed store presence in Europe, the Middle East and Asia, Foot Locker has a strong history of sneaker authority that sparks discovery and ignites the power of sneaker culture.
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Kevin Hart Joins Burn Boot Camp as an Equity Partner, Franchisee and the Brand's First-ever Executive Partner
CHARLOTTE, NC — January 27, 2026 — Burn Boot Camp, a leading US fitness franchise known for its empowering community and challenging workouts, today announced a strategic partnership with global entertainer and entrepreneur Kevin Hart, who has joined the company as an Equity Partner, Franchisee, and its first-ever Executive Partner, Brand and Growth.
The announcement comes during a period of sustained momentum for Burn Boot Camp. Since 2012, the brand has grown to more than 620 open and awarded territories, generates average annual unit revenues exceeding $700,000, and continues to expand its digital ecosystem through Burn On Demand, a digital membership experience designed to complement the in-gym environment and extend Burn's reach to new audiences beyond its physical footprint. With one of the most engaged member communities in the fitness industry, Burn Boot Camp is entering its next phase of scale with an emphasis on disciplined growth and brand leadership.
"This partnership is built for the long term," said Hart. "Burn Boot Camp is a values-driven organization that understands greatness starts at home with family and carries into business and community. As a partner and owner, I'm committed to helping build a brand that develops leaders, creates healthy families, and delivers lasting impact."
As Executive Partner, Brand and Growth, Hart will serve as a long-term strategic steward of the Burn Boot Camp brand, supporting its continued expansion, brand credibility, and national presence. His role is grounded in ownership, advocacy, and alignment with Burn's core values, bringing business perspective and cultural influence to support sustainable growth across the franchise system. Hart will also open his own Burn Boot Camp location in California later this year, further reinforcing his commitment as both an operator and equity partner.
"Kevin's decision to step into an executive partnership role marks a defining moment for Burn Boot Camp," said Morgan Kline, Co-Founder and CEO. "He brings credibility, discipline, and a values-driven leadership mindset that aligns naturally with our mission. Kevin's commitment to family, fitness, and community reflects the foundation of our Member and Franchise Partner base and strengthens our ability to scale with intention and purpose."
Co-Founder and Visionary Devan Kline added, "Kevin shows up - for his family, his employees, and his community - and that level of commitment matters deeply to our brand. As an Equity Partner, Franchise Partner, and Executive Partner, his role is truly first of its kind. He's invested at every level: in the parent company, in a franchise location in California, and alongside our executive leadership team. This isn't a sponsorship. It's an iconic partnership built on shared values, long-term vision, and the belief that we can truly inspire the world!"
Burn Boot Camp is actively expanding in national and global markets. To explore franchise ownership or upcoming market availability, visit franchise.burnbootcamp.com or to visit a gym, burnbootcamp.com.
About Kevin Hart:
Kevin Hart has made a name for himself as the hardest-working comedian, entrepreneur, producer, actor, and is a global box office powerhouse. Hart has earned both Emmy and Grammy nominations, and his films have grossed more than $4.23 billion in global revenue. In 2024, Hart received the Kennedy Center's annual Mark Twain Prize for American Comedy. Hart is Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Hartbeat, a global multi-platform media company and the Founder of HartBeat Ventures. Hart's authentic approach to sharing life's everyday moments with humor and heart has earned him a devoted global audience and social media fanbase, which have translated into loyal customers across his various business ventures. Hart is a founding partner in three companies: the premium tequila brand Gran Coramino, the nutritional wellness brand VitaHustle and the premium dog food company Hartfelt. Hart's brand partnerships include Qatar Airways, Fabletics, Netflix, NBCUniversal, JPMorganChase, DraftKings, Verizon, SharkNinja and C4 Energy. As a strategic partner with Authentic, he co-owns and manages the Kevin Hart brand and holds an ownership stake in the company.
About Burn Boot Camp:
Founded in 2012 by husband-wife duo Devan and Morgan Kline, Burn Boot Camp is a US-based fitness concept that helps women and their families create healthy lifestyles by building strength and confidence. With unlimited 45-minute circuit-style Camps, complimentary Childwatch, and a unique Floating Floor to help protect joints and prevent injury, Burn Boot Camp offers hope to hundreds of thousands of people on a fitness journey and those who seek a path to business ownership with more than 620 open and awarded territories combined. The Burn Boot Camp App brings transformative workouts to Burn On Demand, providing members with access to expert fitness, recovery, and educational content across 18 categories. Devan and Morgan are also the best-selling authors of the bestseller Burn: The Burn Boot Camp 5-Step Strategy for Inner and Outer Strength.
For more information, visit BurnBootCamp.com and follow Burn Boot Camp on Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Threads, LinkedIn and Podcast.
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'Black Women And Our Babies Are Literally Dying' Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated Responds to the Maternal Health Crisis By Turning Urgency Into Action During Their Founders' Day Global Day of Service
JACKSON, MS — January 24, 2026 — Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, one of the country's largest women's service organizations, delivered critical health, wellness and resources during its Global Day of Service initiative that took place from January 16 to January 17, 2026 for nearly 2,000 Mississippians.
The historic two-day initiative Power of S.H.E. Community Blueprint comes on the heels of the Mississippi State Department of Health's recent declaration of a public health emergency in response to the rising infant mortality rates. Implemented across three areas of critical need — Cleveland, Canton, and Jackson — the initiative addressed Mississippi's maternal and infant health crisis through direct service, education and community engagement.
This work builds on Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated's long-standing national leadership in birth equity through its over 50-year partnership with the March of Dimes and its signature Stork's Nest™ program, a proven, community-based model focused on improving maternal and infant health outcomes.
"This initiative reflects what Founders' Day truly represents - service in action," said Dr. Stacie NC Grant, International President & CEO of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated. "We didn't come to raise awareness alone. We came to deliver solutions, resources, and hope as a blueprint for other maternal deserts across the country."
Grant's remarks reflect a deliberate strategy grounded in coalition-building and collective impact. Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated continues to advance its work alongside respected national community partners including the March of Dimes, the NAACP, National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), Heigher Heights for America, D-Free, Black Votes Matter, Black Health Matters, the Black Women's Roundtable, Chi Eta Phi Sorority, Incorporated. Local partners included the Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus, Jackson Medical Mall Foundation, Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health, Magnolia Medical Foundation, Mom.me, MS Center for Justice, MS Families for Kids, MS Public Health Association, MS State Department of Health, Six Dimensions, The She Project, The University of Mississippi Medical Center, Dynamic Wellness Medical Clinic and the Mallory Community Health Center. This collaborative framework guided the Sorority's decision to focus its efforts where the need was greatest.
"Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated's Community Blueprint work in Mississippi exemplifies the type of community-centered programming needed to advance health equity and address the maternal and infant health crisis impacting Black families," said Dr. Ndidiamaka Amutah-Onukagha, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority's Inaugural International Health Equity Think Tank Director.
In 2024, Black infants in Mississippi were dying at a rate of 15.2 per 1,000 live births, more than double that of white infants (5.8 per 1,000), underscoring the urgent racial inequity in maternal and infant health outcomes, according to the state health department.
"Black women and our babies are literally dying. When we engage our neighborhoods in identifying urgent needs, uniting diverse partners, and implementing targeted strategies we can create meaningful, sustainable progress towards maternal and infant health equity and in turn save our moms and babies," said Amutah-Onukagha.
Zeta's efforts in Mississippi demonstrate how community-driven solutions can lead to measurable, life-saving outcomes and lasting impact.
"This moment demands bold and coordinated action," said Zakiya Summers, Mississippi District 68 Representative and Zeta member. "Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated's Power of S.H.E. Community Blueprint unites community leadership with legislative solutions to advance maternal health policies that expand care, support families, and confront disparities that have gone unaddressed for far too long. This is how advocacy becomes law and how law creates lasting change. That is why we introduced the Mississippi Maternal Health Momnibus Act: to shine a light on this crisis and, more importantly, to expand access to care, strengthen the maternal health workforce, and center Black women and families. Together, we are building systems that save lives and create healthier outcomes for generations to come."
Community Impact at a Glance
Leadership, Policy, and Community Alignment
The initiative convened healthcare experts, elected officials, nonprofit partners, and volunteers, reinforcing the importance of cross-sector collaboration in addressing health disparities. A press conference on January 16th brought national attention to Mississippi's maternal health crisis and emphasized the need for sustained, community-driven solutions.
A Model for National Impact
The Power of S.H.E. Community Blueprint is designed as a scalable model demonstrating how organizations can align advocacy, service, and partnerships to create measurable outcomes. The Jackson activation will serve as a reference point for future community-based health and justice initiatives.
About Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated:
Founded on January 16, 1920, on the campus of Howard University in Washington, D.C., Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated is an international service organization committed to advancing Social, Health, and Economic Justice (S.H.E.). Guided by its founding principles of Scholarship, Service, Sisterhood, and Finer Womanhood, the organization has a century-long legacy of community leadership and impactful advocacy.
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated's service and advocacy efforts are powered by Z-HOPE™ (Zetas Helping Other People Excel) — the organization's global programmatic engine designed to track community-based service, measure impact, and ensure accountability across chapters and regions worldwide. Through initiatives such as the Power of S.H.E. Community Blueprint, Z-HOPE™ enables data-informed, community-driven solutions that address critical disparities affecting women, families, and underserved communities, with a particular focus on maternal and infant health equity.
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PG&E's Employee Resource/Engineering Groups Also Offer College Scholarships for Total of About $650,000 This Year
OAKLAND — January 22, 2026 — The PG&E Corporation Foundation (PG&E Foundation) is inviting students to apply for its annual Better Together STEM Scholarship Program. The scholarships are for students who are passionate about shaping the future through Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) disciplines.
The PG&E Foundation will award $350,000 in scholarships to up to 60 students. Eligible students can receive awards of $10,000, $5,000 or $2,500. Funding for these charitable contributions comes from PG&E shareholders, not PG&E customers.
Better Together STEM Scholarships champion future California leaders, empowering them to excel and achieve their higher education goals.
Samiksha Lingan of Hayward is a 2025 scholarship recipient.
"The PG&E Better Together STEM Scholarship represents a dedication to uplifting young people. It helps ensure we can realize our dreams and give back to those around us without being deterred by financial obstacles," said Lingan, who is a data science major at University of California, Berkeley.
"We are thrilled to assist another group of amazing students this year. For more than a decade, we've helped support our next generation of leaders. We look forward to these new scientists, engineers and innovators powering California's clean energy future. It's an exciting time. We're privileged to be able to help students pursue their academic dreams," said Carla Peterman, President, PG&E Corporation, and Executive Vice President, Customer & Corporate Affairs.
The Better Together STEM Scholarship Program has grown over the years to assist more students and families.
In 2023, the PG&E Foundation added a new $5,000 scholarship that expanded the program to include additional recipients. In 2022, students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) throughout the United States became eligible in response to more students applying who planned to attend HBCUs.
Since 2012, the Better Together STEM Scholarship Program has awarded $7.8 million to accomplished students. See videos of prior STEM Scholarship recipients.
Deadline and criteria:
Interested applicants can learn more and apply here. The deadline to apply is March 12, 2026. Scholarships will be awarded by August.
Scholarships are based on academic achievement as well as demonstrated participation and leadership in school and community activities. They are also based on personal triumph and financial need. Students must pursue qualifying degrees in STEM disciplines. These disciplines include engineering, computer science/information systems, cybersecurity, environmental sciences, math and physics.
Applications are open to:
PG&E Employee Resource Group scholarships
In addition to the Better Together STEM Scholarship Program, PG&E's 11 employee resource groups (ERGs) and two engineering networking groups (ENGs) are awarding more than $300,000 in scholarships to help offset the cost of higher education. The funds are raised through coworker donations, coworker fundraising events and the company's coworker giving program. Since 1989, more than $6 million in ERG/ENG scholarships have been awarded to thousands of students. Apply here.
About The PG&E Corporation Foundation
The PG&E Corporation Foundation is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, separate from PG&E and sponsored by PG&E Corporation.
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LOS ANGELES — January 22, 2026 — Vision Films, Inc. ("Vision") has announced the North American Transactional VOD release of the inspirational empowerment drama Love The Skin You're In on February 3, 2026. From first-time filmmaker Sauda Johnson-McNeal and her production company Ron Ash, LLC in conjunction with award-winning producer Kimberly Ogletree of KARAT Entertainment, the film focuses on self-love and celebrates the strength and unity of Black families. The film is written, produced by, and stars Sauda Johnson-McNeal, directed by Kenn Michael, and produced by Kimberly Ogletree. Brittney Murray is the co-producer, and the executive producers are Obba Babatundé, Ronald Ashford, Phillip Sparks and Sauda Johnson-McNeal. Shot on location in Los Angeles, California, the film features a notable cast of television and film favorites, including the iconic Marla Gibbs, Obba Babatundé, and Wendy Raquel Robinson.
The film debuted with a limited theatrical release in December of 2025, was screened at La Femme International Film Festival and was selected for the upcoming 2026 Pan African Film & Arts Festival in Los Angeles.
Love The Skin You're In is the inaugural project from practicing attorney Johnson-McNeal, a creative who dedicates all facets of her life and work to championing Black women and stories of self-love and triumph. Although focused on the healing of one Black family, the messages in the film are universal: challenges of strained family relations, overcoming childhood and generational trauma, self-harm and mental health, and finding self-love as the answer.
Synopsis: Sasha must raise a million dollars to save the women's empowerment center founded by her late grandmother. She is determined to do whatever it takes. Her estranged father suddenly arrives and also needs her help, adding to her stress. With her life in crisis, and family legacy in jeopardy, she turns to her friends and a caring therapist to learn how to soar in the face of adversity.
Watch the trailer HERE.
Lise Romanoff, CEO and Managing Director of Vision Films shares, "This film has a meaningful message not only for women but for all, embrace your community, your family, and most importantly, yourself."
Filmmaker Sauda Johnson-McNeal says, "I want audiences to feel that no matter how difficult the season, healing is possible, especially when the right supports are in place."
Producer Kimberly Ogletree adds, "I was drawn to this film because it speaks to the quiet battles we fight within ourselves and within our families, reminding us that healing begins when we give ourselves permission to do so."
Starring: Sauda Johnson-McNeal, Obba Babatundé (S.W.A.T., Dear White People), Wendy Raquel Robinson (The Chi, Poppa's House, The Game), Marla Gibbs (Grey's Anatomy, Will Trent, The Jeffersons), Flor Delis Alicea (Otra, Seashells, Holes), Blythe Howard (Bel-Air, Walker, 9-1-1 Lone Star, Power IV: Force), Kareem Grimes (All American), Marcus Mitchell (Obliterated), Adilah Barnes (4400, NCIS, Roseanne), Jaqueline Fleming (The Quad, NCIS, the Walking Dead, RED), and Kyrie McAlpin (Will Trent, Raven's Home).
Love The Skin You're In is now available for pre-order at iTunes/AppleTV and Vudu/Fandango at Home. It will be available on major streaming and cable platforms across the US and Canada on February 3, 2026, followed by DVD at major online retailers. Visit lovetheskinyoureinfilm.com for more and up to date information and like/follow on socials IG @/lovetheskinyoureinfilm, TikTok/@lovetheskinyoureinfilm, Facebook/THESKINYOUREINFILM , X/@RonAshLLC
Images HERE courtesy of Vision Films.
About Vision Films:
Vision Films is a leading independent sales and VOD aggregator specializing in the licensing, marketing, and distribution of over 800 feature films, documentaries, and series from some of the most prolific independent film producers in the world. Led by Lise Romanoff, Managing Director/CEO Worldwide Distribution, Vision Films releases 2-4 films a month across Theatrical, VOD, DVD, and television platforms. www.visionfilms.net
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LOS ANGELES — January 21, 2026 — Vision Films Inc. ("Vision") has set February 3, 2026 for the North American Transactional VOD release date for the Gregory S. Cooke's documentary feature film Invisible Warriors: African American Women in World War II. Directed, written and executive produced by Gregory S. Cooke, executive produced by Ethel "Becky" Cooke and Basil Spalding Jones, and associate produced by Joyce Licorish. Made available for Black History Month, audiences will find this educational and inspiring tribute to the 600,000 unsung Black women who served as "Rosie the Riveters," on major streaming and cable platforms across the US and Canada. Gregory S. Cooke has dedicated his career as an educator and historian to help relocate African Americans to the main pages of history; it is also the mission of his educational non-profit, The Basil and Becky Educational Foundation (BBEEF), a 501c (3) organization that has amongst other initiatives, created companion Social Studies and STEAM curricula for the film, targeting grades 8 thru 12.
The film was originally co-sponsored by the Dutch government, which wanted to honor African American women for playing a vital role in the WWII liberation of the Netherlands, as well as Drexel Alumni, Better Angels/Lavine Fellowship, Gift of Life Donor Program, Always Best Care Senior Services, Darryl & Leslye Fraser Foundation, and CARIE: Center for Advocacy for the Rights and Interests of the Elderly.
Watch the trailer HERE.
Told by the women who courageously fought both racism and sexism on America's home front, this is the untold story of 600,000 Black "Rosie the Riveters." These trailblazing women entered factories, government offices, and shipyards, shattering barriers and laying the groundwork for future generations of African American women. Their determination and patriotism redefined what it meant to serve one's country and opened doors to new opportunities for Black women in industry, civil service, and beyond. Featuring rare archival footage and powerful first-person accounts, audiences hear firsthand about resilience, sisterhood, and enduring fight. Invisible Warriors gives voice to the hidden heroines who helped reshape both a nation at war and the course of American heritage.
Lise Romanoff, Managing Director/CEO of Vision Films shares, "Invisible Warriors is an important documentary to pay respect to and keep alive the powerful and patriotic Black women who joined the war effort despite racial, gender and societal obstacles. It celebrates the heroines who paved the way for all working women, and those still fighting for racial and gender equality."
Filmmaker Gregory S. Cooke says, "These women are arguably the most significant group of Black women in the 20th Century. My mother, who was also a Rosie, helped create job opportunities for future generations of Black women. They did remarkable things under very difficult circumstances to improve their life, the lives of their families and the lives of future generations of African American people…we must not forget that."
"Invisible Warriors, the inspiring story of America's previously nameless Black 'Rosies,' is an important film in bringing long overdue honor and recognition to vital members of our nation's 'Greatest Generation.'"
--Holly Rotondi, Executive Director, Friends of the National World War II Memorial
Pre-order now available at iTunes/Apple TV (US, CA, UK): https://bit.ly/4pJ6fXN and Fandango at Home (US): https://bit.ly/4qUj0zU
Images courtesy of Vision Films HERE. Please visit invisiblewarriorsfilm.com for more and up to date information.
About Vision Films:
Vision Films is a leading independent sales and VOD aggregator specializing in the licensing, marketing, and distribution of over 800 feature films, documentaries, and series from some of the most prolific independent film producers in the world. Led by Lise Romanoff, Managing Director/CEO Worldwide Distribution, Vision Films releases 2-4 films a month across Theatrical, VOD, DVD, and television platforms. www.visionfilms.net
About The Basil And Becky Educational Foundation:
BBEEF, a 501(c)3, makes history and culture exciting and relevant to present and future generations who deserve to know on whose shoulders they stand. We recognize that African American history and culture are part of a larger, interconnected experience in the diaspora. We "fill in the gaps" of history and "relocate" these experiences from the "margins to the main pages" of global human consciousness. Our mission is to educate current and future generations, primarily through audio visual storytelling that illuminates the cultural and historical experiences of African Americans and peoples of African descent. https://bbeef.org
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As Legislative Session Opens in High-Stakes Election Year
ATLANTA — January 20, 2026 — More than 300 Black women leaders carried the voices of their home districts into the halls of the Georgia State Capitol on the first day of the 2026 legislative session, meeting with lawmakers to deliver a clear message in this critical election year: Black women are united, unapologetic, and unstoppable. Convened by the Georgia Black Women's Roundtable (BWR), the day included a press conference and culminated in a powerful exchange as Georgia state legislators joined the women for a candid conversation during their luncheon.
At the press conference, Helen Butler, executive director of the Georgia Coalition for the People's Agenda (People's Agenda) and convener of GA BWR, stated, "Black women have come together to advocate for our issues. Legislators need to listen, because we are voting our issues. Over 300,000 Black women have lost jobs or been pushed out of work, and that is a crisis that cannot be ignored. We will continue to show up, organize, and forge ahead because we are determined to create opportunities for our communities."
"We are mothers, we are educators, we are caregivers, we are business owners, we are voters, and we are united. We make up one of the most consistent voting blocs in the country," exclaimed Dee Dawkins-Haigler, president, Organization of World Leaders. "We need to make sure we have livable wages. Make sure that our children have access to a good education, affordable healthcare, and most of all, we need to make sure that people realize that we are not to be played with."
Mary-Pat Hector, CEO of RISE, declared, "Let me be clear: this is not just another day at the Capitol. This a very important year for our community. We have elections." The nationally recognized youth leader continued, "They're trying to take us back. They're trying to take our voting rights, they're trying to take away the rights that we have for our body, and today Black women in Georgia say no longer. This is not going to be the last day that we show up to the Capitol this year in these kinds of numbers. We're not going to just continue to show up to the Capitol, we're going to show up in the community, we're going to knock on these doors, we're going to get our community to fight back."
Other speakers at the press conference included Dr. A. Lois Keith, national chair, National Council of Negro Women (NCNW); Rep Kim Schofield (63rd District); Rep Doreen Carter, (93rd District) vice chair Georgia Legislative Black Caucus; Dr. Penny Brown Reynolds, former Fulton County Judge and deputy assistant secretary, USDA; Mayor of Jonesboro, Dr. Donya L. Sartor; Dr. Alieka Anderson-Henry, Chairwoman of Clayton County; and Deborah Scott, CEO and founder, Georgia Stand Up.
During the Black Women U3: United, Unapologetic, Unstoppable 2026 luncheon, lawmakers listened to women's concerns and discussed current legislation shaping Georgia's future. Participants raised a wide range of deeply personal and community-specific issues directly with elected officials. One woman urged lawmakers to rein in aggressive homeowners associations, citing rising monthly fees and excessive fines for minor infractions that have placed some homeowners at risk of foreclosure. Another called for required bereavement leave, sharing the toll of losing a loved one without time to grieve. A mother who lost her son to a sports-related injury advocated for legislation to strengthen high school sports safety standards, underscoring the urgent need to protect student-athletes.
State representatives who addressed the luncheon included: Rhonda Burnough (77th District), Viola Davis (87th District), Sheila Jones (60th District), and Kim Schofield (63rd District).
Representatives from over 36 different women organizations attended the day of action. Sponsors and partner organizations joining the People's Agenda included Atlanta Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.; National Coalition on Black Civic Participation; Organization of World Leaders; ProGeorgia; NCNW, and Rep GA.
About Georgia Black Women's Roundtable:
GA BWR is an initiative of the Georgia Coalition for the People's Agenda and the Georgia affiliate of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation's Black Women's Roundtable. Founded by the late civil rights leader Dr. Joseph E. Lowery, the People's Agenda is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization focused on year-round voter registration, education, and mobilization in Black communities throughout Georgia. Their headquarters are in Atlanta with offices in Athens, Albany, Macon, Augusta, LaGrange, Rome, and Savannah. For more information visit thepeoplesagenda.org or @gcpagenda on social media.
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Applications now open for the 14th annual entrepreneurial contest to find the next winning brick-and-mortar small business
DETROIT — January 16, 2026 — TechTown Detroit and Comerica Bank have announced the return of the Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest by TechTown, a small business competition that awards $100,000 in startup funding as well as support services to one entrepreneur seeking to open a brick-and-mortar storefront in Detroit, Hamtramck or Highland Park. The competition, first launched in 2011, hatches small business development in Detroit and takes place over the next four months, with the winning business crowned in May.
Applications are now available on HatchDetroit.com and close on Friday, Feb. 27. Entrepreneurs with a retail concept looking to establish their first brick-and-mortar location in Detroit, Hamtramck or Highland Park are eligible to apply.
"Detroit's entrepreneurial ecosystem thrives because of the creativity and determination of its small business owners, and TechTown is honored to champion that innovation through the Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest," said Christianne Malone, Assistant Vice President for Economic Development at Wayne State University and Chief Program Officer of TechTown Detroit. "We're committed to fueling that momentum through entrepreneurial support, meaningful partnerships and accessible funding opportunities."
Entrepreneurs interested in applying to the Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest by TechTown are invited to attend information sessions on Wednesday, Jan. 28 and Wednesday, Feb. 11.
Public Voting and Hatch Off
The small business contest includes two rounds of public voting to determine the Top 4 and help the judges choose the winner, allowing the community to vote and support their next favorite business to open a brick-and-mortal retail location.
The competition culminates on Wednesday, May 13 at Wayne State University's Industry Innovation Center with the annual Hatch Off, during which the Top 4 entrepreneurs present their business plans to a panel of judges and a live audience.
There, the winner will receive the $100,000 grand prize that also includes a business support package from TechTown, Wayne State's entrepreneurship hub.
Comerica Bank's Small Business Commitment
For nearly 15 years, Hatch Detroit has become one of the area's most innovative initiatives nurturing small businesses backed by Comerica's commitment to helping small business and entrepreneurs thrive through the annual contest.
For the second consecutive year, Comerica Bank and the Comerica Charitable Foundation are committing $200,000 to TechTown's Hatch Detroit program to support Detroit's small business economy. In addition to its financial commitment, Comerica works alongside TechTown to provide in-kind support, such as technical services for contestants, during the contest.
"Hatch Detroit and TechTown Detroit continue to drive entrepreneurial and small business growth, and the Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest by TechTown has become a valuable opportunity for entrepreneurs to further develop, gain exposure and receive critical resources to help them become viable," said Steve Davis, Comerica Bank Michigan Market President. "Comerica has proudly supported the Hatch Detroit Contest since 2012, and we look forward to joining with TechTown again this year to build on the legacy that has become one of Detroit's most successful business incubation programs."
On Oct. 6, 2025, Fifth Third Bancorp and Comerica Incorporated announced that they have entered into a definitive merger agreement. The material regulatory and shareholder approvals to merge have been received, and the transaction is expected to close on February 1, 2026, subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the remaining customary closing conditions. The merger will not affect the competition, and it will remain the Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest by TechTown through 2026.
"Both Comerica and Fifth Third believe that small businesses strengthen neighborhoods and communities, and Hatch Detroit cultivates the advancement of small businesses from ideas to thriving retail ventures in Detroit," Davis said.
Since 2019, Comerica Bank has provided the grand prize for the Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest by TechTown winner and will do so again this year. Like last year, Comerica Bank will also be contributing an additional $50,000, in tandem with a $50,000 grant from the Comerica Charitable Foundation, to TechTown for organizational support of the Hatch Detroit program to assist with its ongoing incubation of small businesses.
Including this year's contributions and grants, Comerica Bank and the Comerica Charitable Foundation have collectively committed over $1.5 million into Hatch Detroit since first supporting the small business program in 2012.
TechTown's Commitment to Small Businesses and Hatch Detroit
TechTown has served Detroit as a vital incubator for small businesses and entrepreneurs for more than 20 years. Hatch Detroit was integrated into TechTown's suite of entrepreneurial programs and services in 2022.
The Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest by TechTown has helped create some of Detroit's most successful and well-known small businesses, including winners Walter Pat's Bakery Cafe (2025), G.L.A.M. Body Scrubs (2024), Bouncing Around The Motor City (2023), Little Liberia (2022), 27th Letter Books (2019), Baobab Fare (2017), Meta Physica Massage (2016), Sister Pie (2014), Batch Brewery Company (2013) and La Feria (2012). Recent Hatch Detroit alumni have opened businesses including: Craig's Coffee, JP Makes and Bakes, K Walker Initiative, Lily's & Elise, Next Chapter Books, Shell Shock'd Tacos and Sepia Coffee Project.
In 2025, Lauren Ellis, owner and pastry chef of Walter Pat's Bakery Cafe, won the Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest by TechTown. Walter Pat's is a seasonally driven, small-batch, Black woman-owned bakery. It offers classics as well as new, unique flavor combinations inspired by a Midwest upbringing and Southern influence.
Together, Hatch Detroit alumni have opened more than 60 businesses, employ more than 500 people and have invested more than $12 million in their businesses.
Key Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest Dates:
Jan. 15: Applications open
Jan. 28: Information Session
Feb. 11: Information Sessions
Feb. 27: Applications close at 11:59 p.m.
March 11: Top 25 contestants notified
April 21: Top 10 contestants revealed
April 22-April 29: Top 10 public voting takes place
April 29: Top 4 announced
April 29-May 13: Top 4 public voting takes place
Wednesday, May 13: Winner announced at Hatch Off
About Comerica Bank:
Comerica Bank is a subsidiary of Comerica Incorporated (NYSE: CMA), which is a financial services company headquartered in Dallas, Texas, and strategically aligned by three business segments: The Commercial Bank, The Retail Bank and Wealth Management. Comerica, one of the 25 largest commercial U.S. financial holding companies, focuses on building relationships and helping people and businesses be successful. Comerica provides banking centers across the country with locations in Arizona, California, Florida, Michigan and Texas. Founded on Aug. 17, 1849, in Detroit, Michigan, Comerica has offices in 15 states and services 13 of the 15 largest U.S. metropolitan areas, as well as Canada and Mexico. Comerica reported total assets of $77.4 billion at Sept. 30, 2025. Learn more about how Comerica is raising expectations of what a bank can be by visiting www.comerica.com, and follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram and LinkedIn
About TechTown:
TechTown Detroit, Wayne State University's entrepreneurship hub, is a nonprofit business service organization that provides programs, education and resources for early- to growth-stage small businesses and tech entrepreneurs. By building bridges for entrepreneurs to succeed, TechTown is accelerating an inclusive economy for Detroit and Southeast Michigan. Since 2007, TechTown has supported 7,000 companies, which created more than 3,000 jobs and raised more than $480 million in startup and growth capital. For more information, visit techtowndetroit.org.
About Hatch Detroit:
Hatch Detroit supports both existing and new retail initiatives in the cities of Detroit, Hamtramck and Highland Park. Hatch Detroit was founded in 2011 to give residents and aspiring entrepreneurs an opportunity to have a voice in neighborhood retail development and joined TechTown Detroit's suite of entrepreneurial programs and services in 2022. Beyond the contest, Hatch Detroit provides funding, exposure and mentoring in support of its alumni entrepreneurs. With support from Hatch Detroit, 60 alumni have opened businesses. They employ over 500 people and have invested over $12 million in economic development. To learn more, visit hatchdetroit.com.
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Report on the School-to-Prison Pipeline and Its Impact on Black Boys in the United States
WASHINGTON — January 16, 2026 — The U.S. Commission on the Social Status of Black Men and Boys (CSSBMB) has released its 2025 Annual Report, a comprehensive federal analysis examining how exclusionary school discipline practices continue to undermine educational equity, civil rights, and equal protection for Black boys across the United States.
"Education was meant to be a gateway to opportunity, not a sorting mechanism that determines who is punished and who is protected," said CSSBMB Director Mark Spencer. "Our findings show that too many Black boys are still denied fairness at the very start of their educational journey."
The report focuses on the school-to-prison pipeline, documenting how suspensions, expulsions, and school-based law enforcement referrals—often for minor infractions—disproportionately remove Black boys from classrooms and increase their likelihood of justice system involvement. These disparities appear as early as preschool and persist throughout K–12 education.
"Our mission is clear: to create a future where every young man can reach his full potential, free from systemic obstacles that have historically held them back," wrote CSSBMB Commissioner and Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson in her message accompanying the 2025 Annual Report.
The Commission's analysis identified the following key findings:
After outlining key findings, the report offers actionable policy recommendations for Congress, federal agencies, states, and school districts. These recommendations emphasize restorative justice approaches, reduced reliance on exclusionary discipline, improved data transparency, and stronger protection for students' civil rights. The 2025 Annual Report reflects the Commission's ongoing commitment to addressing systemic barriers in education and justice for Black boys.
The full 2025 Annual Report is available here: https://cssbmb.gov/publication/cssbmb-annual-report-2025/
About the U.S. Commission on the Social Status of Black Men and Boys:
The U.S. Commission on the Social Status of Black Men and Boys is a federal advisory body charged with examining the social conditions affecting Black men and boys and advancing solutions that promote equity and opportunity nationwide. The Commission conducts research, analyzes data, and develops findings and recommendations for Congress, the president, and federal agencies on issues including education, health, economic opportunity, criminal justice, and civil rights.
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New data highlights measurable enrollment impact from the Ed Advancement–Raftr partnership
SAN FRANCISCO — January 14, 2026 — Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) continue to lead the nation in cultivating deep community, belonging, and opportunity. Today, Raftr and Ed Advancement shared early findings from their three-year collaboration supporting a cohort of HBCUs with admitted student engagement. Partner institutions saw a 2-3x higher enrollment yield from admitted students who engaged on Raftr compared to those who did not.
This underscores the impact of early connection and community building during the enrollment decision process: The partnership accelerates digital capacity, strengthens community-building efforts, and supports students and families in feeling connected and confident as they navigate enrollment decisions. Recent research from RAND found that a significant number of prospective college students quit before enrolling. Other studies show as many as two-thirds disappearing between application and official enrollment counts.
Since launching the partnership in 2023, Ed Advancement and Raftr have supported three consecutive enrollment cycles (2023, 2024, and 2025), a period that aligns with their partner HBCUs reporting record demand and historic enrollment highs."HBCUs have long set the national benchmark for cultivating community and belonging," said Sue Decker, Founder and CEO of Raftr. "We're proud to help extend that strength into the enrollment experience. The data reinforces what educators have long known: when students feel connected early, they step into their next chapter with confidence."
Student engagement with Raftr at partner HBCUs has accelerated year over year. In the most recent enrollment cycles, in-app activity and chat interactions more than doubled compared to the prior year, alongside consistent repeat usage. During that period, the platform averaged over 9,100 monthly active student users who logged more than 21,600 sessions per month, signaling growing reliance on Raftr to connect, communicate, and access campus resources during the enrollment journey.
Enrollment outcomes further highlight the return on early engagement with prospective students. As Ed Advancement's initial funding phase concluded, nearly 90% of partner HBCUs are renewing Raftr using institutional funds, demonstrating both clear institutional value and long-term sustainability.
"Our mission is to support HBCUs as they expand opportunity and strengthen the student experience," said Jim Runcie, CEO and Co Founder of Ed Advancement. "Raftr supports our institutional partners as they seek new, digital ways to engage admitted students and families. The early momentum we are seeing reflects the student-centered work happening across these campuses."
Early Impact & Enrollment ROI (2023–2025)Across partner HBCUs, student engagement on Raftr is both substantial and growing. Over the past three years, nearly 90,000 students have generated more than 22 million in-app actions, reflecting widespread adoption and sustained use across campuses. Communication is central to that engagement, with students sending and interacting with chat messages from administrators and peers over 122,000 times, making chat the platform's most-used feature.
Enrollment outcomes further demonstrate the impact of early engagement. Students who activated their Raftr accounts generated measurable incremental enrollment gains, with incremental tuition revenue meaningfully more than covering the cost of Raftr. As Ed Advancement's initial funding phase concluded, the majority of partner HBCUs transitioned to institutional renewals, signaling durable value and long-term viability.
During the same period, several partner HBCUs publicly reported record enrollment levels through their own institutional announcements. While these outcomes reflect the longstanding strength, leadership, and student-centered focus of these HBCUs, they provide important context for the environment in which this collaboration supported early connection, belonging and engagement.
The partnership complements the student experience by:
To learn more about Raftr and how it can support prospective student engagement and enrollment, visit www.raftr.com.
About Ed Advancement:
Founded in 2018, Ed Advancement strengthens HBCUs and other mission-focused colleges and universities by providing scalable operations, technology-driven solutions, and enrollment and student-success capacity.
About RaftrRaftr is a community-building and insights platform that enables higher education institutions to create early belonging, streamline communication, and access actionable analytics, all designed to strengthen enrollment, improve retention, and support student success.
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Texas Southern becomes the first HBCU in Texas to achieve combination of research and community engagement designations
HOUSTON — January 13, 2026 — Texas Southern University has been awarded the nationally recognized Carnegie Community Engagement Classification, a highly selective designation that recognizes institutions where community engagement is deeply embedded across research, teaching, service, and institutional practice.
Fewer than 10-percent of the nearly 4,000 degree-granting institutions in the United States hold the Carnegie Community Engagement Classification, placing Texas Southern among an elite group of institutions recognized as institutions for public purpose and for integrating community engagement into the core functions of the university. Texas Southern is the first HBCU in the state to earn the classification.
"This designation affirms Texas Southern University's longstanding commitment to advancing education, research excellence, and societal impact through meaningful community partnerships.," said President J.W. Crawford III. "It reflects the work of faculty, students, staff, and community partners who have collaboratively shaped research, teaching, service, and outreach to address real-world challenges and improve outcomes locally and beyond. I am proud of the women and men whose hard work put the University in position to achieve this prestigious classification."
The Carnegie Community Engagement Classification is an elective designation that requires a rigorous application process. The review process includes extensive qualitative and quantitative evidence demonstrating that community engagement is institutionalized, assessed, and sustained. Unlike Carnegie research classifications, which are based primarily on research expenditures and doctoral output, the Community Engagement Classification evaluates how universities work with communities through mutually beneficial and reciprocal partnerships.
"This designation recognizes that community engagement at Texas Southern University facilitates reciprocal partnerships that shape teaching, research, and institutional practice" said Provost and Sr. Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Carl B. Goodman. "These partnerships add value to the community around us and beyond. Likewise, this classification affirms our commitment to academic excellence that is grounded in shared purpose and public impact."
Texas Southern continues to deepen its commitment to community engagement through meaningful partnerships, hands-on learning, and service-driven academic programs that benefit both students and the Greater Houston community. A few examples of the University's community engagement include, but are not limited to:
Preparing Culturally Responsive EducatorsThe Department of Curriculum and Instruction in the College of Education integrates community engagement into its mission to prepare culturally responsive educators. Through strong partnerships with PreK–12 schools, students gain practical classroom experience while supporting local schools and families.
Mental Health Access and Workforce Development
Mental Health America of Greater Houston operates a comprehensive referral system that helps residents connect with vital mental health services. Faculty contributed their expertise to help develop the system. In partnership with the University and other organizations, Mental Health America also hosts a biannual Internship and Practicum Fair for graduate counseling students—creating a pipeline for future mental health professionals while expanding access to care across the region.
Community-Focused Health Education
In the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Doctor of Pharmacy students complete required service-learning and community engagement activities throughout their academic careers. These experiences ensure students gain real-world exposure while supporting health initiatives that serve diverse communities.
Public Service Through Professional Practice
The Master of Public Administration (MPA) program requires students to complete internships with government agencies or nonprofit organizations. These placements allow students to contribute to community development, policy analysis, and program evaluation in areas such as housing, education, and public health—while building professional experience and supporting underserved populations.
Social Work Internships Serving Greater Houston
The Department of Social Work partners with agencies throughout Greater Houston to provide internship opportunities for senior students. Students complete 450 hours of supervised fieldwork across the academic year, with partner agencies currently spanning 16 ZIP codes. These placements expand access to social services while preparing students for professional practice.
Arts, Culture, and Community Storytelling Through a partnership with Kindred Stories, the English Department collaborates with community organizations to curate literary events that engage both Texas Southern students and the broader public, amplifying diverse voices and fostering cultural connection.
This designation, which Texas Southern earned on its first attempt, further distinguishes the University as a research-active institution with a strong mission-driven focus. The University's combination of Carnegie R2 (Doctoral University with High Research Activity) status and the Carnegie Community Engagement Classification places the university in a very select institutional category. Among peer Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), data suggests the University is the first HBCU in the state of Texas to hold both designations concurrently.
Nationally, the Carnegie Community Engagement Classification is increasingly viewed as a signal of institutional readiness by major federal agencies and foundations and philanthropic organizations focused on social impact. The designation strengthens Texas Southern' s positioning for community-engaged and translational research funding while reinforcing alignment between research growth and institutional mission.
About Texas Southern University:
Texas Southern University honors our designation as a special-purpose institution for urban programming and research. As such, Texas Southern is a comprehensive university providing higher education access to the nation's underserved communities with academic and research programs that address critical urban issues and prepares its diverse student population to become a force for positive change in a global society. distinguished educational pioneer since 1927, the University has become one of the most diverse and respected institutions in Texas.
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More than 40 individuals selected for the sixth cohort of executive leaders representing more than 30 HBCUs
ATLANTA — January 8, 2026 — The HBCU Executive Leadership Institute (HBCU ELI) at Clark Atlanta University today announced its 2026 Community of Fellows, a selective cohort of leaders preparing to serve as the next generation of presidents and senior executives across Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), MSIs, and PBIs. Now in its sixth year, more than 40 executive leaders from higher education, business, technology, and non-profit organizations will participate.
To view a full list of the 2026 HBCU ELI Community of Fellows, click HERE.
Fellows are chosen through a highly competitive, multi-step review designed to identify leaders with demonstrated institutional impact, executive readiness, and a clear commitment to the mission of HBCUs. HBCU ELI's competency-based model is designed to select Fellows annually through a rigorous process, with eligibility requirements that include a minimum of 10 years of experience in higher education or a related field, as well as at least three years in dean-level or equivalent leadership roles.
"In this moment, our institutions need leaders who can steward heritage and accelerate innovation at the same time," said Clark Atlanta University President George T. French, Jr., Ph.D. "The 2026 Community of Fellows is prepared to meet the charge of building the next generation of HBCU leaders—and strengthening communities that rely on HBCUs as engines of opportunity for all."Executive leadership programs such as HBCU ELI are increasingly essential as new and aspiring presidents face a widening set of challenges—from financial and operational pressures to campus governance, faculty issues, free speech, and student mental health.
A competency-driven curriculum built for real-world HBCU executive leadership
The 2026 cohort will participate in a structured learning experience centered on HBCU ELI's 13 core competencies—six core leadership competencies and seven HBCU-specific executive competencies. These include:
Core leadership competencies:
HBCU-specific executive competencies:
"Our Fellows are immersed in a competency-driven experience that prioritizes executive judgment, strategic clarity, and mission-aligned leadership," said Dr. Phyllis Worthy-Dawkins, Executive Director of HBCU ELI and 18th President of Bennett College. "This cohort brings the talent and the discipline to lead through complexity—while keeping students, outcomes, and institutional sustainability at the center."
"We welcome the sixth cohort of executive leaders to the Community of Fellows Program with pride. The new cohort of Fellows includes several HBCU alumni and employees, which is also exciting," said Dr. Cheryl Davenport Dozier, Program Coordinator for the HBCU Community of Fellows and President Emeritus of Savannah State University. "This will be another year of intentionality and purpose as we continue to prepare future higher education executive leaders."
Program structure and 2026 launch milestonesThe 2026 Community of Fellows launched with a virtual orientation on January 3, 2026, which will be followed by additional bi-monthly competency-based seminars through April 2026. The in-person residency will be hosted on the campus of Clark Atlanta University from June 10 – 12, 2026, and will continue with applied leadership work. The culminating Virtual Celebration of Leadership will take place on November 20, 2026.
About HBCU ELI at Clark Atlanta University:
The HBCU Executive Leadership Institute at Clark Atlanta University (HBCU ELI) is a groundbreaking incubator for recruiting and developing the future presidents of America's Historically Black Colleges and Universities. ELI equips high-potential leaders with tools and strategies that support the education and business goals of more than 100 HBCUs. Through ELI, the ability of HBCUs to survive and thrive is improved. In addition to granting thousands of degrees each year, HBCUs boast illustrious alumni like Martin Luther King, Jr., Oprah Winfrey, and Vice President Kamala Harris, among others. Visit hbcueli.com for more information and join the conversation on social media @hbcueli; #hbcueli.
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Accelerating a New Era of Femtech, Hormonal Health, and Science-Led Sexual Wellness
NEW YORK — January 6, 2026 — Vella Bioscience, a pioneering FemTech company advancing clinically driven solutions in women's hormonal, sexual, and intimate health, today announced the appointment of Joy Allen-Altimare as President. A transformative leader spanning global health, consumer innovation, and longevity-focused brand building, Allen-Altimare will guide Vella through its next stage of scientific commercialization, retail expansion, and category-defining growth.
Since joining Vella in November 2025, Allen-Altimare has brought renewed clarity and momentum to the organization, strengthening operational systems, modernizing the commercial and retail strategy, and refining Vella's storytelling to better reflect women's lived experiences across arousal, pelvic pain, menopause, and the hormonal continuum. She has played a role in Vella's upcoming Vella Bioscience rebrand and our launch of Ebbtide, a breakthrough, science-backed vaginal suppository designed to relieve menstrual and pelvic pain, later this month.
"Joy's leadership has already reshaped Vella in meaningful and measurable ways," said Carolyn Wheeler, CEO and Co-Founder of Vella Bioscience. "She brings a rare combination of rigor, creativity, and empathy—grounding our brand in science while elevating our connection to the women we serve. Her background in health, CPG, and consumer trust-building makes her the ideal leader for this next chapter."
As President, Allen-Altimare will oversee brand strategy, marketing, commercialization, retail expansion, innovation pipeline execution, and Vella's differentiated science-first positioning, rooted in the company's proprietary research and the guidance of its Scientific Advisory Board.
"Joy has the opportunity to translate complex biology into meaningful solutions for women," said Dr. Harin Padma-Nathan, Chief Medical Officer and Co-Founder. "She deeply understands how clinical excellence must connect with consumer need. As Vella advances its research in arousal biology, pelvic health, nitric oxide pathways, and women's hormonal wellness, her leadership ensures these innovations reach women in ways that are accessible, empowering, and impactful."
Allen-Altimare previously served as Global CMO of Saucony, Chief Revenue Officer at Havas and Chief Marketing Officer at Kindbody, where she helped expand access to fertility, hormonal health, and women's clinical services nationwide. Her 25-year career spans the intersection of health, wellness, behavior change, and consumer culture.
"It is an honor to lead Vella at a moment when women's health, especially sexual and hormonal wellness, is finally being recognized as essential—not optional," said Allen-Altimare. "Women deserve evidence-based answers, world-class products, and a brand that speaks to them with honesty and respect. Vella's science unlocks real solutions—across arousal, pain, pelvic tension, intimacy, and longevity—and we are building a future where women can understand their biology, advocate for their pleasure, and experience full-body wellbeing."
Vella will debut its strategic rebrand in January 2026, reflecting a bold, modern, clinically meaningful view of women's sexual vitality and hormonal wellness. This will be followed by the launch of Ebbtide later in the quarter, the re-introduction of all of our products in the first half of 2026, and continued expansion across DTC, retail and medical distribution channels.
About Vella Bioscience, Inc.:
Vella Bioscience, Inc. is a FemTech innovator dedicated to advancing women's sexual, hormonal, and intimate wellness through rigorous science and proprietary biotechnology. Built on scientific rigor and developed by the same team behind Viagra® and Cialis®, Vella addresses critical gaps in women's health research with products designed to empower women through education and evidence-based care. The company launched the category-first Vella Pleasure Serum, giving women unprecedented agency over their sexual experiences through a science-backed, hormone-free approach. To learn more, visit www.vellabio.com.
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DETROIT — January 6, 2026 — After months of building behind the scenes, Byio is ready to welcome its community onto the platform.
Following sustained organic growth and rising inbound demand, Byio is preparing to onboard its first invited users, marking a clear shift from building privately to active participation across the platform.
Byio app interface highlighting invite-only access verification.
Access to Byio is intentionally restricted. Users may register for invitation consideration, but access is granted selectively through the community, beginning with users active in Byio's Discord and registered supporter base. This access model is permanent and central to how the platform operates.
While access is phased, the platform itself is fully functional. Invited users will be able to log in, post, engage, test features, and participate as the platform evolves. Originators will be able to monetize from day one through live streaming and gifting, without waiting for future programs or approvals.
Access Built into the PlatformMost social platforms treat access as a growth lever. Byio treats it as infrastructure.Community driven access is embedded directly into how the platform grows, allowing participation to be shaped intentionally rather than corrected later. The model is designed to reduce bad-faith behavior, protect culture, and create accountability without relying on opaque algorithms or reactive moderation.
Users interested in joining Byio can signal interest through the platform's website by completing the "Register" form. Supporters may also to lock in, which does not guarantee an invitation but serves as a stronger signal of commitment and alignment than registration alone. These signals help inform how early invitations are extended as the community shapes its first group of participants.
Sustained Organic MomentumSince first announcing its build in September 2025, Byio has experienced steady organic growth and rising inbound demand. Byio began generating revenue globally on September 1, 2025, through community lock-ins, ahead of platform access.
Additional indicators of momentum include:
Byio's community includes participants across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, South Africa, Nigeria, the Philippines, Pakistan, and South America, underscoring global demand for platforms built with intentional access and cultural safeguards.
Founder Statement"Most platforms talk about community while centralizing control elsewhere," said R.M. Easterly, Founder & CEO of Byio. "Byio was built to move differently. Access is not an afterthought; it is part of the foundation."
Community AccessRegister & Lock In: https://www.itsbyio.com Join the Discord: https://discord.gg/UKcdDE8auR
About Byio:
Byio (By Invite Only) is an AI-native SaaS platform operating as a premium social universe built around intentional access and community participation. Founded and led by Black women, Byio is designed to prioritize the Black community while remaining open to everyone. The platform enables sustainable growth, cultural protection, and creator monetization from day one through a community driven access model.
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LOS ANGELES — January 5, 2026 — Alabama State quarterback Andrew Body has entered the NCAA transfer portal following a standout 2025 season in which he was named the Stats Perform HBCU National Player of the Year and the SWAC Offensive Player of the Year. He helped lead Alabama State to its first 10-win season since 2004, the best streak in the last 21 years for this team.
Alabama State QB Andrew Body received the HBCU National Player of the Year Award, with Craig Haley presenting.
Body completed 70.9% of his passes for 1,770 yards, 20 touchdowns, and one interception, posting a 203.6 passer efficiency rating. He also rushed for 518 yards and four touchdowns, establishing himself as one of the nation's most efficient dual-threat quarterbacks.
"I'm grateful for Alabama State, and I'm ready to compete for a starting quarterback role at the highest level; this decision comes from a place of confidence, not uncertainty," Body said.
Body credited Alabama State University, his coaches, teammates, and the Montgomery community for their support, and said he will evaluate opportunities in the coming weeks with the goal of enrolling in time for spring preparation.
"I'm thankful for the opportunity Alabama State gave me to grow as a quarterback and as a man," Body said. "I'll always represent this program with pride."
On what's next, "I'm going to take my time," Body said, adding that the decision has to be the right one. For now, Body is leaving the door open and weighing his next move. With strong attention expected, he has not announced any future commitments just yet.
"My priorities are simple: competing for a starting role, system fit, working hard, and winning," Body said.
A multi-year starter, Body has experience in pro-style, spread and RPO-based offenses and is known for his decision-making, toughness, and leadership.
Body was recognized with the HBCU National Player of the Year award at the Stats Perform FCS National Awards Show on Jan. 3, 2026, accepting the famed award at the Woolworth Theatre in Nashville, Tennessee.
Body is represented by Los Angeles-based attorney Vance Owen, along with attorneys Robert Heil, and Justin Bronk of the Heil Law Firm (Houston, and Corpus Christi, Texas), who will assist in coordinating his NCAA transfer and representing him in NIL matters.
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WASHINGTON — January 2, 2026 — Phillis Wheatley Forever Stamp
What: The U.S. Postal Service is honoring Phillis Wheatley (1753-1784), the first author of African descent in the American Colonies to publish a book, with the 49th stamp in the Black Heritage series.
The first-day-of-issue event for the Phillis Wheatley Black Heritage stamp is free and open to the public. News of the stamp is being shared with the hashtag #BlackHeritageStamp.
When: Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026, at 11 a.m. EST
Where: Old South Meeting House - 310 Washington St. - Boston, MA 02108
RSVP: Attendees are encouraged to register at https://www.usps.com/philliswheatleystamp
Background:
Born in West Africa and brought to Boston on a slave ship, Phillis Wheatley was enslaved but educated in the Wheatley household. Wheatley published her first collection, "Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral," in 1773. This collection showcased her impressive mastery of various poetic forms, including hymns, elegies, and narrative verse, securing her place in history. Freed from slavery that same year, she went on to correspond with figures such as George Washington, who praised her poetic talent.
Wheatley's legacy continues to inspire generations, earning her the title "the mother of African American literature." Before the Civil War, abolitionists used her accomplishments to affirm the intellectual capability of people of African descent and argue against slavery. Today schools, libraries, community centers and university buildings across the country have been named for Wheatley, and she has been the subject of numerous inspirational books for children. In 2003, a statue of the poet was included in a new Boston Women's Memorial. The first full-length scholarly biography of Wheatley was published in 2011, with a second biographical study published in 2023, part of an ongoing effort to recognize her resilience in adversity.
Antonio Alcalá, an art director for USPS, designed the stamp using an existing portrait by Kerry James Marshall.
The Phillis Wheatley stamp will be issued in panes of 20. As a Forever stamp, it will always be equal in value to the current First-Class Mail 1-ounce price.
Postal Products
Customers may purchase stamps and other philatelic products through The Postal Store at usps.com/shopstamps, by calling 844-737-7826, by mail through USA Philatelic or at Post Office locations nationwide. For officially licensed stamp products, shop the USPS Officially Licensed Collection on Amazon. Additional information on stamps, First Day of Issue Ceremonies and stamp inspired products can be found at StampsForever.com.
Please Note: The United States Postal Service is an independent federal establishment, mandated to be self-financing and to serve every American community through the affordable, reliable and secure delivery of mail and packages to more than 170 million addresses six and often seven days a week. Overseen by a bipartisan Board of Governors, the Postal Service is celebrating its 250th year of service to customers amidst a network modernization plan aimed at restoring long-term financial sustainability, improving service, and maintaining the organization as one of America's most valued and trusted brands.
The Postal Service generally receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.
For USPS media resources, including broadcast-quality video and audio and photo stills, visit the USPS Newsroom. Follow us on X, formerly known as Twitter; Facebook; Instagram; Pinterest; Threads and LinkedIn. Subscribe to the USPS YouTube Channel. For more information about the Postal Service, visit usps.com and facts.usps.com
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