If you need us, we’re somewhere relaxing...It’s our summer mental health break. #BeBackSoon #ObviouslyThisIsntGalveston
Happy Summer! You’ll notice that this week’s edition of the Defender Newspaper, as well as our award-winning website, is a little diferent than normal. Te reasoning is two-fold. Here at the Defender, we are big proponents of mental health. More than 160 million people are a part of the U.S. workforce today, and the average full-time employee spends approximately half of their waking life at work. Extensive psychological research shows nearly two in fve (39%) workers report that their work environment has had a negative impact on their mental health, according to American Psychological Association’s 2022 Work and Well-being Survey.
In fact, the U.S. surgeon general recently
issued guidance outlining how our jobs may actually be at the heart of the nation’s mental health crisis. While we love the work we do, we also believe in taking time to reset. Making mental health a centerpiece of workplace policies is more important than ever as the nation grapples with declining workforces, fnancial stressors, shifs in workplace culture exacerbated by the pandemic, and growing concerns about health and stress among Americans.
To that end, and under the leadership of our amazing publisher, Sonny Messiah Jiles, we have used this week to give our family (because that’s what we call our team) a mental wellness break. We’ve urged them to do something - travel, hang with family and
friends...or do nothing - lounge on the sofa binging Bounce TV. Whatever brings them peace. We encourage other businesses and organizations to rethink how they foster a sense of connection among workers, show employees that they matter, make space for their lives outside work, and support their growth.
Of course, we still have a job to do so we thought what better way to meet both goals - give the team a break and give the community News they Can Use - than to give insight into Te Best of Black Houston. We asked ourselves ‘If I were new to town and wanted to support a Black business,’ how would I fnd
it? Tat was the impetus for Te Best of Black Houston. If you’re looking for a Happy Hour spot, a barber, a burger, a place to smoke a stogie or connect with the Lord, we got you. Whether it’s working out, watching sports, having family fun or focking to a festival, we got you. Check out the centerfold so you can see all the categories we covered. By no means are we saying this is the best of the best...Houston is so diverse, we understand there are places we’ve yet to discover. So we hope you’ll head over to our social media pages and let us know your faves.
We’ll be back to normal business next week...but in the meantime, we hope you’ll fnd time to take your own mental health break. Believe us, it’s totally worth it!
The Texas Education Agency (TEA) is hoping to turn around HISD (under the direction of new superintendent Mike Miles). Part of that includes a new Board of Managers, which replaced the elected Board of Trustees.
TEA ofcials outlined specifc requirements for the district to meet before the reins will be returned to trustees. Tese include eliminating multiyear failing campuses, achieving full compliance with state and federal special education program requirements, and demonstrating improved governance focused on enhancing outcomes for all students in HISD.
Te primary objective of this intervention is to improve underperforming schools within the district.
The Defender talked with three Black representatives from the new Board: Angela Lemond Flowers, a veteran HISD educator; Cassandra Auzenne Bandy, HISD graduate and PTO volunteer; and Adam P. Rivon, HISD parent and military veteran.
DEFENDER: Whatpreviousexperienceandcommunity work have you done for the community at-largeandHISD?
FLOWERS: I began working in the district in 1993 at Jesse H. Jones High School. I also raised my children in the Tird Ward. We’ve been active in the Houston community our entire lives. We’re active at my church, Wheeler Avenue, active in Jack and Jill, other community events, and then raising my kids from South Central Little League to Boy Scouts. Tey are grown now. My oldest is 23, my youngest is 16. I’ve also worked outside of the school system with non-proft organizations that partner with HISD and other school districts. I’ve worked on principal pipelines, teacher pipelines, making sure that we have the best and brightest for Houston and drawing them in, providing support for leadership development. One of the things the research says is that the school principal, school leader is really the sole pivot for school change. We’ve got to have excellent principals. I’ve been doing this work for a while, I know the needs in HISD, and that’s one of the things that drew me to the work here.
BANDY: As far as community involvement, I started when I was an HISD student myself from Grissom Elementary, to TH Rogers to Booker T Washington High School. We live on the northeast side of town right now. My kids go to Hester House twice a week to do swimming lessons. My volunteer afliations are Delta Sigma Teta Sorority,
ANGELA LEMOND FLOWERS, is an experienced educator who started her teaching career at Jesse H. Jones High School in HISD, following in the footsteps of her mother. With over 20 years of experience as a high school English teacher and in administrative leadership roles in Houston-area schools, Flowers is committed to advancing children’s education. As a mother of four, including two HISD graduates, she brings a personal understanding of the district’s challenges and aspirations.
CASSANDRA AUZENNE BANDY , a Houston native and Houston ISD graduate, is a parent to fourth-generation HISD students. Actively involved in the Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) at her children’s school, Bandy also holds a background in chemical engineering and currently works as a business strategy manager at a global consulting frm.
ADAM P. RIVON is a Houston ISD parent and a military veteran. As the founder and owner of a small business in the real estate industry, Rivon’s experience in leadership and his service in the United States Army earned him a Bronze Star during combat operations in Iraq.
MD Anderson, AIDS Foundation of Houston, Junior League of Houston. I try to maintain my volunteerism in the community and try to teach my kids that’s the way to go and surround them with those types of opportunities as well.
RIVON: I grew up in Baytown (East Houston). Half of my childhood was there. Te second half was in Barbers Hill ISD, which is Mont Belvieu. However, when I got to Prairie View, I pledged Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity, began working with Big Brothers Big Sisters, a lot of our national programs. Later, I actually was able to become one of the presidents of the Alpha chapter of Alpha Lambda. I’m a member of Wheeler. Prior to the pandemic, you could see me regularly in children’s church. I’ve always kind of been involved there as one of the voluntary leaders. I also led the Lemonade Day for Houston for Wheeler.
DEFENDER: Howdoyouplantoactivelyengage withandinvolveBlackstudents,familiesandcommunities in shaping policies and decisions that directlyimpacttheiracademicsuccess?
FLOWERS: We have a community engagement plan. It’s starting with our superintendent and it includes all of the board. We are going to go out to the community and then bring the community in. We are now the school board. We are that voice for the community. All of us are At-large members, so it’s not one person for one district. You can literally reach out to us collectively. All of those things are going to start in the summer, even before the school year, because we need to hear from the community.
BANDY: We’ve outlined our network map of important stakeholders within the community. We are tapping into our networks. We’re spreading it wide. Te Defender needs to hold us accountable. You are how we’re speaking to our people. Te media is so powerful. Journalism is powerful. You guys can help us with this efort, because it’s all hands on deck.
RIVON: We’re already reaching out. We’re going to various community events to make sure that folks know who we are and know that they can reach us. We want to be available not only to the communities where many of us reside. Tird Ward is where I lived for the longest. I live in the Montrose area, but I’ll be going to diferent parts of the community to make sure that they are connected to us. We’re still accountable to you even though you didn’t vote for us per se. We want to make sure we are achieving our targets.
By Aswad Walker
Stacey Allen, founder of Nia’s Daughter Movement Collective, is on a mission to empower Black women and girls through dance. And she has been an incredible success at accomplishing just that.
“Our mission is to create and support art and wellness initiatives through the lens of Black women and girls,” said Allen. “We are a multi-generational group of like-minded Black women artists.”
This collective of sisters embodies a multigenerational and multidisciplinary approach to creating cultural arts events and wellness offerings that speak to our communities, and it was all inspired by Allen’s various life experiences.
“I was inspired to form Nia’s Daughter’s Movement Collective from a combination of life experiences, mainly motherhood, my experience teaching in public schools, and of course my experience in Black expressive culture, dancing and things like that,” said Allen. “But once I started having my own children, I realized I needed a structure that allowed for mothers to bring their babies into the practice. But I also wanted to create work that spoke to Black women and mothers. That’s kind of where our stories derive from and that’s like the meat of what we create.”
Stacey’s choreographic perspective is to cre-
Dunham technique. I just had a lot of dance experiences and I also, which is very important to me, taught dance in public schools. So, I’ve taught dance in every kind sector: charter schools, public schools, elementary, middle, high school, a little bit of college. That is how I’ve been able to get the inspiration to start the company.
Recent work includes “Formed in My Grandmother’s Womb” as a part of Project Row Houses’ Round 50: Race, Health, and Motherhood (2019), “A Single Thread Weaves a Future” as part of Fresh Arts’ SpaceTaking Residency (2021) and “The Fairytale Project” at Discovery Green (2022.) Stacey Allen is a currently a Project Freeway Fellow with Diverse Work (22-23.) Stacey also serves as the Director of Artistic Programming at Harris County Cultural Arts
My husband and my children are descendants of Jim and Winnie Shankle. ‘The Fairytale Project’ premiered last year at Discovery Green, and we’ve been on tour essentially since then.
Allen’s group performed “The Fairytale Project” on June 10 for the Kyle Texas Juneteenth Festival, an experience she says was part of a week she views as her group’s personal highlight, which ended the next day with incredible news.
“I was (recently) announced as one of the Houston BANF (BIPOC Arts Network Fund) Artist Awardee. So, that was an extreme honor. Out of almost 400 applicants, they selected 25 and I was one of them, and also SisterMama Sonya, who performed as our Granny Griot, was also selected as one of the 25 artists,” said Allen, who also has a master’s degree in cross-cultural studies from the University of Houston Clear Lake. Her advice for young sisters contemplating getting involved in dance.
pro
“Just do it. Dance can sometimes be the embodiment of colonialism and white supremacy, but know that our people have been dancing since antigua (ancient days) and tap into that and use that as inspiration to continue your practice.”
for many, many
at college, but most notably here in -
This year has been extremely productive for Nia’s Daughter, performing “Liturgy of Remembrance,” “Aesthetic Inheritances,” and “Fairytale Project: Pedagogy and Performance”
SXSW EDU.
“We created this show called ‘The Fairytale Project,’ and it’s essentially a historically inspired dance theater production based on the love story of Jim and Winnie Shankle, who are the founders of the Texas Freedom Colony Shankleville.
VOLUME 92, NUMBER 34 - JULY 6, 2023
Publisher | CEO Sonceria Messiah-Jiles
Strategic Alllance Clyde Jiles
Digital Content Manager Get Current Studios
Managing Editor ReShonda Tate
Associate Editor Aswad Walker Education Reporter Laura Onyeneho
Special Assignments Reporter Tannistha Sinha
Sports Terrance Harris Jodie B. Jiles
Photographer Jimmie Aggison
Social Media Manager Tia Alphonse Jordan Hockett
One of the nation’s largest and most influential events, the National Urban League Conference gives policymakers and thought leaders a chance to assemble and exchange ideas on advancing economic progress in African American and other communities.
With the NUL Conference coming up July 26-29, we’re honored to be one of the lead sponsors with our own commitment to joining business and political leaders in the fight for a low-carbon energy future to move everybody forward.
www.shell.us/getconnected
When it comes to finding things to do in Houston, there’s no shortage of activities.
We take a look at All Things Black in Houston - these are activities, businesses, events, ALL owned by Black folks. Take a look at some of the tops in the areas of: Social, family fun, Good eating, entertainment, self-care and faith. Head over to www.DefenderNetwork.com to see who made the cut in All Things Black in Houston. By no means do we think these lists are all-inclusive. In fact, we’d love for you to add to the discussion. Visit defendernetwork on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter and tell us your favs.
Top ‘Best Vibes’ Restaurants
Top Black-owned BBQ Restaurants
Top Soul Food Restaruants
Top Burger Spots
Top African Restaurants
Top Black Museums and Exhibits
Top Houston Landmarks
Top Black Festivals
Top Black-owned Food Trucks
Top Cigar lounges
Top Happy Hour Spots
Top Sports Bars
Top Hookah Lounges
Top Clubs
Top Baptist Churches
Top Catholic Churches
Top Methodist Churches
Top Non-Denominational Churches
Top Muslim Temples & Mosques
Top Comedy Shows
Top Concerts
Top Summer Plays
Top Summer Black Movies
Top Black Houston Musicians
Top Black Boutiques
Top Gyms
Top Masseuses
Top Barbers
Top Hair Stylists
One of the city’s largest Black-founded nonproft organization is hoping its new name, and new location can help create a collaborative space and synergy with like-minded non-proft organizations to create a thriving Tird Ward community.
Formerly known as Change Happens!, Civic Heart Community Services (Civic Heart) has relocated its headquarters to One Emancipation Center at 3131 Emancipation Avenue in Houston’s Tird Ward. Te 34-year-old organization has outgrown its previous location on Elgin Street, home to the organization for the past 18 years. Te new 10-year lease for 13,028 square feet allows Civic Heart to remain in the historic Tird Ward, while adding much needed space to accommodate the growing number of programs and services.
“Civic Heart has been a part of the historic Tird Ward for the past 34 years,” said Helen Stagg, Civic Heart CEO. “Tere is still a great need for community services in this area, so it was important to fnd our new headquarters right here to continue our work in this community and preserve our heritage. We are delighted to fnd our new home in One Emancipation Center, with its tenant mix including several other non-proft organizations working to create a thriving Tird Ward community. We are excited about the synergy of working in kinship with others whose mission closely aligns with Civic Heart.”
Since 2019, the organization increased its investment in the community by 240 percent and now ofers 25 programs in 59 Texas counties through grants and partnerships with a wide range of partners, thanks to its dedicated team of 75 culturally diverse employees and more than 280 volunteers. Te organization helps avert youth from a life entangled in the
youth justice system; enables families to access health insurance; acts to end HIV and prevent substance misuse; helps those experiencing homelessness with housing and other essential support including connection to employment and mental health treatment; provides mentoring to refugee youth as they adapt to living in a new country; and much more.
Located across Emancipation Park in Houston, One Emancipation Center was developed by the Midtown Redevelopment Authority (MRA) in partnership with the Center for Civic and Public Policy Improvement (CCPPI) as Houston’s frst central headquarters for afordable housing programs. Serving as a hub for afordable housing initiatives, ofce space, and community gatherings, the building opened in 2021 and houses a mix of organizations engaged in afordable housing advocacy, administration and support services.
The new office space provides additional meeting rooms to host community groups
and projects and to work on collaborative issues that afect people in the community. In addition, the expanded technology center will provide technology resources for area residents needed to learn, apply for jobs, complete resumes, or apply for health insurance. It also allows for students without access to computers
or internet at home to use technology to study, do homework and for tutoring on-site. Te site also provides functionality to accommodate the hybrid work model, allowing Civic Heart to not only meet the changing workforce demands but also address their growing space demands in a more cost-efcient manner.
To view current bid opportunities at San Jacinto College, go to www.sanjac.edu/purchasing – Bidding Opportunities for a list of current and previous bids. Register as a supplier in the College’s electronic bidding and supplier system to receive notice of future bid opportunities.
THE HARRIS CENTER FOR MENTAL HEALTH AND IDD REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SEALED PROPOSAL
6168 SOUTH LOOP EAST APARTMENTS
The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD is requesting Competitive Sealed Proposals pursuant to Chapter 2269 of the Texas Government Code and 2 CFR Part 200 from qualifed construction frms for construction of an apartment complex for consumers served by The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD. Federal labor standards provisions including but not limited to HUD Section 3, Davis Bacon and Related Acts, and City of Houston’s MWBE and Pay or Play will be enforced. The site will be 6168 South Loop East, Houston, 77087, Project Number: PUR-FY23-262.
Specifcations may be secured from The HARRIS CENTER, Purchasing Services located at 9401 SW Freeway, Houston, Texas 77074; telephone (713) 970-7279, The HARRIS CENTER website www.theharriscenter.org or the Electronic State Business Daily Site https://portal.cpa.state.tx.us/ beginning Monday, July 3, 2023. A mandatory in-person Pre-Proposal Conference will be held on Wednesday, July 12, 2023, 10:00 a.m. CST at 9401 Southwest Frwy, Room 104, Houston, TX 77074.
Deadline for prospective vendors to submit questions to this CSP is Monday, July 17, 2023, 5:00 p.m. CSP responses must be submitted to Purchasing, 9401 SW Freeway, Houston, Texas 77074 by 11:00 a.m. July 26, 2023, in a sealed envelope marked “CSP - DO NOT OPEN UNTIL–11:00 a.m. July 26, 2023 “6168 South Loop East Apartments”. A public opening of the proposals will occur immediately following the proposal submission deadline at 9401 SW Freeway, Houston, Texas 77074. Any questions pertaining to this solicitation should be addressed in writing to Sharon Brauner, C.P.M., Purchasing Manager, Sharon.brauner@theharriscenter.org, James Blunt, C.P.M., James.Blunt@theharriscenter.org, and Nina Cook, MBA, CTCM, CTCD, Director of Purchasing, Nina.cook@theharriscenter.org or fax to (713) 9707682. Minority-Owned Businesses and Women-Owned Businesses are encouraged to participate. The HARRIS CENTER reserves all rights to postpone, accept or reject any and/or all proposals, to waive formalities and reasonable irregularities in submitted documents as it deems to be in its best interests, is not obligated to accept the lowest proposal.
This solicitation (CSP) is subject to addenda, including but not limited to, an extension of the submission deadline, communicated through www.theharriscenter.org.
Did you know that July is BIPOC Mental Health Month? It’s a great opportunity for us to shine a light on the importance of mental health and well-being within the Black community right here in Houston.
Taking care of our mental health is crucial, so let’s explore five key things you can do to prioritize your mental well-being with some local resources in mind:
Find Supportive Resources: Houston is fortunate to have organizations that specialize in providing mental health support for the Black community. Reach out to organizations like The Harris Center, The Black Mental Health Alliance-Houston, or the African American Behavioral Health Center to access culturally responsive care and resources.
Seek Culturally Competent Therapists: Connecting with a therapist who understands and appreciates the unique experiences of being Black can make a significant difference. Check out directories like Therapy for Black Girls or the
Association of Black Psychologists to find local therapists who specialize in providing culturally competent care.
Engage in Community Healing: Houston offers various community events and programs focused on promoting mental well-being. Look for workshops, support groups, or healing circles specifically tailored for the Black community. Keep an eye on local community centers, churches, or cultural organizations for upcoming events.
Celebrate Black Culture: Embracing and celebrating our Black culture is a powerful way to nurture our mental health. Explore Houston’s vibrant arts scene and attend events that celebrate Black history, music, and art. The Ensemble Theatre, The Buffalo Soldiers National Museum,
and the African American Library at the Gregory School are just a few of the places you can visit to immerse yourself in our rich cultural heritage.
Practice Self-Care: Carve out time for self-care activities that resonate with you. Houston has plenty of green spaces, parks, and trails where you can take peaceful walks, meditate, or engage in physical exercise. Explore Hermann Park, Buffalo Bayou Park, or Discovery Green for some serene and rejuvenating moments. Don’t hesitate to reach out to these local resources and organizations in Houston that are dedicated to supporting the mental well-being of the Black community. Let’s make this BIPOC Mental Health Month a time of self-care, healing, and empowerment right here in our vibrant city!
Remember, taking care of our mental health is an ongoing journey, and it’s important to find what works best for you.
By Amaka Watson
Houston has long been a hub for musical talent, and the city continues to produce a new generation of extraordinary musicians who are breaking barriers and making their mark on the industry. In particular, young Black musicians are bringing fresh perspectives, unique sounds, and powerful messages that resonate with audiences far and wide. Here are the top fve popular Black musicians from Houston who are revolutionizing their respective genres and captivating listeners with their exceptional talent.
Megan Tee Stallion, whose real name is Megan Jovon Ruth Pete, is a Grammy-winning rapper and songwriter. Known for her ferce delivery and confdent persona, Megan gained international recognition with her hit singles like “Savage” and “Hot Girl Summer.” Her empowering lyrics and unapologetic style have made her a leading fgure in the modern rap scene.
Tobe Nwigwe is a Nigerian-American rapper and songwriter who has gained recognition for his unique blend of Afrobeat, hip-hop, and spoken word. His music often carries a powerful message, addressing social issues and personal growth. Tobe’s performances are known for their energy and thought-provoking lyrics.
Travis Scott, whose real name is Jacques Bermon Webster II, is a chart-topping rapper, singer, and producer. Known for his unique vocal style and atmospheric production, Travis Scott has pushed the boundaries of hip-hop and gained a massive following. His albums like “Astroworld” and “Birds in the Trap Sing McKnight” have been highly successful.
Beyoncé Giselle Knowles-Carter, is a global icon and one of the most infuential artists of our time. Hailing from Houston, Texas, Beyoncé rose to prominence as the lead vocalist of the R&B group Destiny’s Child before establishing herself as a solo artist. With her unparalleled talent, exceptional vocal range, and captivating stage presence, Beyoncé has become a powerhouse in the music industry.
LIZZO
Lizzo, born Melissa Viviane Jeferson, is a Grammy-winning singer, rapper, and futist. Known for her vibrant personality and body-positive anthems, Lizzo has brought a fresh and unapologetic energy to the music industry. Her hits like “Truth Hurts” and “Good as Hell” have become anthems of self-love and empowerment.
Leon Bridges is a soul and R&B singer-songwriter known for his retro sound and heartfelt lyrics. Drawing inspiration from the classic soul music of the ‘60s, Bridges brings a timeless quality to his music. His debut album “Coming Home” received critical acclaim and earned him a dedicated fan base.
Kam Franklin is the lead vocalist of Te Sufers, a Gulf Coast soul band hailing from Houston. Known for her powerful voice and dynamic stage presence, Kam brings a blend of soul, jazz, and R&B to the band’s music. Te Sufers have garnered acclaim for their authentic sound and energetic performances.
Maxo Kream, whose real name is Emekwanem Biosah Jr., is a Houston-based rapper known for his gritty storytelling and raw lyrics. Maxo’s music ofen refects his experiences growing up in Houston’s streets and tackles topics like gang violence, drug culture, and personal struggles. He has gained recognition for his vivid storytelling abilities.
Robert Glasper is a highly respected jazz pianist, composer, and producer known for his genre-bending approach to jazz. His music incorporates elements of hip-hop, R&B, and electronic music, creating a unique fusion. Glasper has collaborated with various artists and has received multiple Grammy Awards for his groundbreaking work.
By Jimmie Aggison
Westfield High School, under the guid ance of head coach Billy Goffney, is gearing up for an intense off-season of preparation after a mixed performance in the previous season. With a final record of 17-16 and a fourth-place finish in the district, Westfield found themselves trailing behind Benjamin Davis, MacArthur, and Nimitz. Although they secured a spot in the playoffs, their journey was cut short as they lost in the first round to Grand Oaks, by a score of 45-63.
“We have to start putting stuff together early so when we actually get to the season, we know who can do what and who’s the best fit,” said Goffney.
Goffney emphasizes the significance of off-season training, recognizing the team’s need to familiarize themselves with new players and build chemistry. Summer ball provides a valuable opportunity for Westfield to address their weaknesses and develop as a cohesive unit. Facing competitive teams with diverse strategies offers a more realistic environment compared to regular practice sessions.
One player, Gregg Boudreaux, is focusing on improving his shooting consistency from beyond the arc. Addi tionally, his towering stature demands that he becomes a better rebounder. Boudreaux brings experience to the team, having made significant contributions in the latter stages of the previous season. As a senior, he is expected to provide leadership and play a vital role in shooting the ball.
“He shoots the ball well, he stepped inside when his three ball wasn’t falling and hit a couple of mid-range jumpers,” said Goffney.
Class: 2024
Twitter: @GBoudreaux_12
IG: @weluv._g
Position: Shooting guard
Height & weight: 6-feet2, 163 pounds
Player he studies:
Klay Thompson
Jeremiah Cooper, another key player for Westfield, is working on his strength and catching ability, particularly when maneuvering deeper into the paint. With high hopes for a deep playoff run next season, Westfield’s success will rely on their ability to convert perimeter shots after Cooper attracts double and triple teams. Cooper’s proficiency in the paint has seen remarkable improvements, especially when he positions himself
Status: Uncommitted
Favorite artist: Brent Faiyaz
Favorite subject: Geometry
Shout-outs: Mom
Goffney.
Cooper’s passion for basketball began at an early age, inspired by watching his father play. He started playing varsity basketball during his freshman year and earned increased playing time in his sophomore season. Standing tall in the post, he poses a challenge for defenders.
Gregg Boudreaux’s basketball journey took an unexpected turn when he decided to trade in his football cleats for basketball shoes during his freshman year.
YouTubers. Despite his lack of prior experience, he now competes with the Cypress Bucks AAU team and leads by example within the team.
As Westfield High School gears up for a new season, coach Goffney and his team are diligently working to refine their skills, address their weaknesses, and foster team chemistry. With players like Cooper and Boudreaux honing their abilities, Westfield hopes to make a deep playoff run.
“If we continue to work, I feel like we could go undefeated and win district,” said Cooper.
IG: @headtap_jayy
Position: Center
Height & weight: 6-feet8, 200 pounds
Players he studies: DeMarcus
Cousins, Joel Embiid
Status: Uncommitted
Favorite artists: NBA
Youngboy, G Herbo, R. Kelly
Favorite subject: Math
Shout-outs: Mom, dad
We’ve invested nearly $100 million in workforce development. Alongside hundreds of other employers and community partners, we’re increasing the talent pipeline by helping our neighbors get the skills and experience to build careers that support families and fuel our economy.
Here in Houston, we’re investing in our community by investing in people’s futures. I’m proud of the work we’re doing to help train and identify talent for in-demand careers by contributing to local initiatives through employer and academic partners.
Hong Ogle President, Bank of America Houston
Learn more at bankofamerica.com/houston
What would you like the power to do?®
