Curated Newswire & Signature Events
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.
###
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.
###
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.
###
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.
###
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.
###
'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.
###
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.
###
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
###
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
###
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.
###
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.
###
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.
###
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.
###
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.
###
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.
###
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.
###
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.
###
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.
###
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
###
Copyright © 2026 HBCU White House - All Rights Reserved.
#HBCU #HBCUalumni #colleges #college #entertainment #talkshow #media #celebrity #interviews #HBCUs #BlackColleges #education #travel #sports #digitalshow #HBCUwhitehouse #politics #bipartisan #lifestyle #business #entrepreneurship #entrepreneur #consumer #consumertrends #trends #popculture #products