SISTERS A New Era VOLU M E X I | 2 0 2 3
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Message from the Chair
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Section News
Message from the President New Era of Leadership 60th National Convention Highlights New Era Welcome Reception Celebrating Dr. A. Lois Keith Board Retreat Recap Mary McLeod Bethune Birthday Tribute Programs and Development Advocacy in Action - Social Justice NCNW PEACE Youth Art & Culture Competition Upcoming Events New and Legacy Life Members Affiliate Spotlight New Additions to the Staff Staff Directory In Memoriam
National Council of Negro Women, Inc. 633 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20004 202.737.0120 www.NCNW.org Volume XI | 2023
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Message from the Chair Dear NCNW Family,
I
am deeply honored and excited to be a part of the NCNW New Era as your elected National Chair. I look forward to continuing to work with our president and CEO on mobilizing people, advancing policy, revitalizing programming, and solidifying infrastructure. As a member of the NCNW family for decades, some of my proudest moments include chartering Sections throughout the country and helping build on the solid foundation that Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, Dr. Dorothy Height, and all of our past presidents helped to create. Our Sections are the reason we thrive and may directly address the issues that cater to the specific needs of Black women. I thank you for being tireless and fearless in your leadership, focused and direct in your advocacy, and compassionate and caring towards the communities you serve.
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Our cross-generational approach has allowed space for new and innovative ideas for growing our organization
As I move forward in my new role, I hope to integrate the wisdom of our past chairs with the energy and excitement of our youth and collegiate members. NCNW prospers when we take special care to address the needs of Black women from all generations, and I am very proud to say that the NCNW Board is the embodiment of intergenerational cohesion. Our cross-generational approach has allowed space for new and innovative ideas for growing our organization, while anchoring NCNW to its roots from Dr. Mary McLeod’s Bethune’s initial vision. Our board members sacrifice their time and energy to carry out the NCNW mission, and I am so grateful for their hard work and support. Finally, I want my NCNW family to know that I am here to assist you with your needs as you carry forth the ideals of NCNW, the legacy of our Founder, and the “powerful potential” in our youth. I am your National Chair, and I am here to serve, and poised to lead. Sincerely,
Dr. A. Lois Keith, National Chair
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Message from the President Greetings NCNW Family,
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s the first President and CEO in the new NCNW infrastructure, I have nothing but hope and excitement for the future of NCNW. Our organization continues to reach new heights, as we find inspiration rooted in our past, to drive forward into a future where Black women achieve social, economic, and political equality.
The foundation of NCNW is built upon a legacy rich with quiet heroism and tremendous foresight. For 88 years, our “organization of organizations” has not only led, advocated for, and empowered women of African descent, their families and communities, but we have also given voice to marginalized people across the United States. Most recently, President Emerita Dr. Dorothy I. Height’s civil rights efforts in Mississippi inspired NCNW’s initiative to increase broadband access in the state, and Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune’s emphasis on utilizing science and technology to advance civil rights inspired the creation of the Project Height Scholars Program. We are constantly drawing from our rich legacy and the energy of our youth to create programs, policies, and initiatives that best serve all Black women.
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NCNW is built upon a legacy rich with quiet heroism and tremendous foresight
Under my administration, I have developed a strategic plan for NCNW to mobilize people, advance policy, revitalize programming, and solidify infrastructure. As a result of this vision, NCNW has been at the forefront of critical conversations about police brutality, healthcare access, student loan debt forgiveness, and several other initiatives forthcoming. With support of our Board of Directors, led by National Chair Dr. A. Lois Keith, as well as the generous efforts of our Sections, I can emphatically state that NCNW is strong and growing stronger every day. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve and lead this vast network of activists, community leaders, and public servants dedicated to NCNW’s crucial mission. Yours in Service,
Rev. Shavon Arline-Bradley, President & CEO, NCNW
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New Era of Leadership
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BY BERNADINE STALLINGS
or decades, NCNW has been an agent of change in the United States, influencing policy and being the voice for Black women, their families and communities. At the close of the 2022 National Convention and under the leadership of Dr. Thelma Thomas Daley, the legacy civil rights organization turned the mirror on itself to focus on a shift from within. A change in infrastructure was on the horizon when convention delegates voted to change the by-laws of the 88-year old organization to allow for a president and CEO. Then, the organization doubled down on its commitment to realign how NCNW operates and leads when the membership elected Dr. Lois A. Keith to be the Chair of the Board of Directors. The new structure was proposed by 7th President and Chair Dr. Johnnetta Betsch Cole. Based on her experience in serving simultaneously as the chair of the board and president, she felt the time was right for NCNW to move to a structure that is already in place in many women’s rights and civil rights organizations. With this new structure, the NCNW Board chair’s focus will be to convene the board to carry out its work that is centered in governance and major decision-making of the organization to set a tone for carrying out the vision and mission of NCNW. The president/CEO is charged with strategy and operations management, as well as maintaining the financial success of NCNW, while serving as the spokeswoman. This is the first time NCNW has designated separate leadership roles electing a board chair and hiring a president/CEO serving in a salaried position. “As the Chair of the Board of Directors of our beloved organization, Dr. Lois Keith will continue to be an exceptional NCNW leader. Over the course of her many years of service in NCNW, she has been known for solving problems and developing solutions collaboratively, said
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Dr. Cole in a statement announcing Dr. Keith’s new role. “She motivates others while always remaining humble about her own successes. Dr. Keith embraces the power of intergenerational efforts, and she has impeccable integrity. As Dr. Keith carries out her role as the Chair of NCNW’s Board, we can expect our organization to continue to move mightily onward. And it will!” The board did not waste any time beginning its search for a new president and CEO. By January 2023, the decision was made to hire Rev. Shavon Arline Bradley as the organization’s first President and CEO. “Being appointed as the first President and CEO of NCNW has been a surreal experience,” said President and CEO Arline-Bradley. “While attempting to assist in the search for candidates, I had the opportunity to study and learn from the work done by Mary McLeod Bethune and Dr. Dorothy I. Height that laid the groundwork for the foundation of NCNW. I even sent in names myself of candidates I thought could continue the legacy of Bethune, Dr. Height and all our NCNW past presidents. I am so honored that the board saw that same passion and concern in me for what happens to African Americans, particularly Black women, and their families.”
With 21 years of experience in healthcare, equity diversity & inclusion (EDI), government affairs, and executive leadership, Rev. Arline-Bradley was a clear choice to fill the seat. “We are excited to hire Shavon as our new president and CEO. She is an extraordinary communicator, and her expertise in the areas of public health and social justice is impressive,” said Dr. Keith in a statement announcing the new President and CEO. “She will exceed expectations because these are the areas in which NCNW would like to continue, as we bridge the generational gap.”
Who is Our New President and CEO? Rev. Shavon Arline-Bradley is the founding principal and CEO of R.E.A.C.H. Beyond Solutions, a public health, advocacy, and executive leadership firm promoting EDI, political and organizational strategy, risk management, government affairs, and technical assistance. Under her leadership, the firm’s gross profit grew exponentially in 5 years by broadening its client base to include federal government, foundation, corporate, non-profit, and political candidate entities in the United States and the Netherlands.
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Because of her passion for advancing EDI and improving the health and social outcomes of the most vulnerable, Rev. Arline-Bradley co-founded The Health Equity Cypher Group, a collective of health leaders advancing EDI and executive leadership in all sectors. She is a community advocate serving as president & chairman of Delta for Women in Action, a 501(c)4 organization, the vice-chair of the NAACP Board of Directors Health Committee, and the immediate past co-chair of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., National Social Action Commission. Rev. Arline-Bradley also serves as an advisory member of the Oprah Winfrey Network initiative “OWN Your Health.” In addition, she is an active member of the American Public Health Association, the Links, Inc., and Jack & Jill of America, Inc. A southern New Jersey native, she earned her bachelor’s and master’s in public health from Tulane University. She also graduated from the Samuel Dewitt Proctor School of Theology at Virginia Union University with a Master of Divinity, where she too became an ordained minister. Rev. Arline-Bradley completed an Executive Certificate of Business Management from Howard University and an Executive Certificate in Diversity & Inclusion from Cornell University.
Who is Our New Chair of the Board of Directors Prior to starting her firm, she served as senior advisor and director of external engagement during the Obama Administration in the Department of Health & Human Services for the 19th U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Vice Admiral Vivek H. Murthy, where she worked with congressional and global leaders to advance the administration’s public health agenda of building bi-partisan policies and solidifying public-private partnership opportunities to advance domestic and global health. Before her tenure in the Office of the U.S. Surgeon General, at the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) headquarters, Rev. ArlineBradley served as the executive vice president of strategic planning & partnerships, as well as former chief of staff, where she managed over $30 million portfolio, and senior director of health programs for 2,200 chapters and over 500,000 members.
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Dr. A. Lois Keith is a prolific educator, community organizer, and civil rights advocate who will steer the organization’s vision into 2023 and beyond. Dr. Keith brings her years of experience in leadership, advocacy, and education to guide NCNW and ensure that the organization’s goals of promoting social justice, STEAM education, entrepreneurship, and health equity are further realized in the upcoming years. Dr. Keith, a Legacy Life Member and Bethune Achiever, is actively involved in NCNW where she has dedicated so much of her life to its mission and its purpose. In 2016 at the NCNW’s 57th National Convention, served as co-chair of the event and was elected to the position of National Vice President. She has served as the National Membership Chair at the pleasure of both Presidents Dr. Dorothy I. Height and Ms. Ingrid Saunders Jones. In 2022, she was appointed to serve again as Vice President. Dr. Keith was a member of the NCNW
Transition Team and was a co-chair of the 60th Biennial National Convention. In addition, Dr. Keith has served as Executive Member-at-Large, member of the National Nominating Committee, member of the National Re-certification Committee, and National Assistant Secretary. Currently, she serves as co-chair of Membership and is a member of the President’s Circle. She has been a dedicated leader in her local DeKalb Section, currently serving as Chair of the Leadership Committee. Her prior roles in the DeKalb Section include: President, 1st Vice President, 2nd Vice President, Secretary, Assistant Secretary. She is also a charter member of the DeKalb Pacesetters Life Guild. In addition to her service at NCNW, Dr. Keith is also a champion for equitable education. She is a graduate of Alabama A&M University where she received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Secondary Education with a major in Mathematics and a minor in General Science. She received her Master’s in Middle School Education from Georgia State University and she also studied at Mercer University. She had a stellar teaching career with the Henry County School System for 30 years, in addition to serving as the Math Department Chair and Beta Club Sponsor. Her many accolades include Teacher of the Year 1991-92 and 2000-2001, nomination to Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers, and the Principal’s Award 1995-1996. Over the course of her expansive work in community service and education, Dr. Keith has received several awards and accolades including a proclamation from the State of Georgia for her service to NCNW and the community. In 2014, she was honored to have been the keynote speaker at the dedication and ribbon cutting ceremony at the new and first public Dorothy I. Height Elementary School in the state of Georgia. In late 2014, the DeKalb Section honored Dr. Keith as the first recipient of the Lois Keith Trailblazer Award for Exemplary Community Service, an award which was named in her honor. They also awarded her the Living the Legacy Award in 2014. Dr. Keith is a chartered member of the East Metro Orchids, where she served as the chartering secretary and is currently serving as 2nd Vice President. She is a member of Xi Beta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. where she serves as chaplain. Dr. Keith is an active member of the Move of God Church in Atlanta, Georgia.
The Path Forward Dr. Keith and Rev. Arline-Bradley will work collaboratively to bring the mission of NCNW to the forefront and expand the reach of the organization to communities across the United States. Both leaders understand the role NCNW plays in ensuring Black women have a seat at the table when decisions about their health, education, employment, and overall civil rights are being made. “The synergy between the board and our new administration is key,” said Rev. Arline-Bradley. “Dr. Keith has committed to being the leader of governance practices and ensuring fiscal sustainability of NCNW. Her leadership and leadership style have been put in place to ensure our membership has the models in place to execute our priorities. I also understand that I am here to help us to not only revitalize current programs but also bring in resources to ensure our programs are long-standing.” Rev. Arline-Bradley’s goal is to solidify the organization’s infrastructure while sustaining membership support, creating new partnerships, and reclaiming partnerships that may have fallen by the wayside. She also plans to create space for more engagement with the youth in this “new era.” “We are connected to and relevant to young people because NCNW creates space not only for community service, but also space to advance leadership opportunities,” Rev. ArlineBradley continued. “We here at NCNW, believe that young women are going to be positioned to be the next leaders. I believe the next Kamala Harris will be an NCNW member. I believe the next neurosurgeon, lawyer, judge might be sitting in one of our collegiate sections. But how do I know we are relevant? Because we also provide intergenerational opportunities for young women to connect with some of the leading women in varying industries all over the country.” NCNW will continue to promote education; encourage entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and economic stability; educate women about health and advocate for healthcare access; and promote civic engagement and advocate for sound public policy and social justice. “Our opportunity is now set in stone,” Rev. Arline-Bradley concluded. We are not only pulling together all of our resources to bring the vision of Mary McLeod Bethune and Dr. Height to fruition, but also relying on our membership to sound the alarm that NCNW is here.” Whitney Guilford and Tonita Perry contributed to this story.
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A NOBLE PAST SHAPING A POWERFUL FUTURE:
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HIGHLIGHTS from th THE NCNW NATIONAL CONVENTION After a year of advocating for increased voter participation in communities of color, promoting truthful information about immunizations, leading the charge on dismantling the racial wealth gap, corralling the Black community to get out the vote, supporting the nomination of the first Black female Supreme Court justice, celebrating the installation of Founder Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune’s statue in the U.S. Capitol and meeting with Vice President Kamala Harris to discuss reproductive health, NCNW ended the year with a hybrid 60th National Convention themed:
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Chaired by NCNW 8th National President Dr. Thelma T. Daley and planned by Vice-Chairs Dawna Michelle Fields of New York, Dr. A. Lois Keith of Georgia; Dr. Alotta Taylor of Virginia; and Dr. Helena Johnson of California, the convention took place December 2 - 4, 2022 at the Washington Hilton Hotel in Washington, D.C. More than 700 members descended upon the nation’s capital to convene in person for the first time since 2018. In addition to this number, more than 400 attendees joined the convention virtually while those attending in person participated in breakout sessions to discuss issues impacting Black communities such as maternal health, vaccine confidence, and human trafficking.
A Noble Past, Shaping
The convention was both a reflection and a celebration of NCNW’s core values. NCNW’s focus on housing equity was reinforced by a rousing speech by 18th Secretary of U.S. Housing and Urban Development Marcia Fudge. Secretary Fudge reiterated her commitment to reducing homelessness, increasing home ownership opportunities and reaffirmed her goal of increasing the stock of affordable housing.
NCNW also celebrated its longstanding commitment to supporting the accomplishments of Black women in the arts during a conversation with Emmy award-winning actress, Sheryl Lee Ralph. Ralph who starred as Deena Jones in the original Broadway production of Dreamgirls, and winner of the Best Supporting Actress Primetime Emmy Award for her role as Barbara Howard on Abbott Elementary in 2022. The organization also hosted an informative fireside conversation with actress Gugu Mbatha-Raw about her role as an human rights ambassador for the United Nations High Commission on Refugees. Mbatha-Raw is the current lead in Apple TV’s Surface. Jotaka Eady, founder and CEO of Full Circle Strategies, LLC, a social impact consulting firm, conducted an impassioned interview with Symone D. Sanders-Townsend, host of MSNBC’s Symone. Together, both Mbatha-Raw and Sanders-Townsend represent a new generation of Black women in the media and arts. Congressman Jamie Raskin (D-MD) brought remarks addressing social justice issues while highlighting the urgent need to curb partisan gerrymandering and voter suppression tactics threatening American democracy. This year’s convention held significant importance as delegates voted to change the organization’s bylaws and restructure NCNW’s leadership roles to reflect more modern trends. As a result, Dr. A. Lois Keith was installed as chair of the NCNW’s Board of Directors. Dr. Keith has served in numerous NCNW leadership roles including vice chair, national membership director, and DeKalb Georgia section president.
a Powerful Future.
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NCNW
Celebrates A NEW ERA of LEADERSHIP 10
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n Friday, March 31, 2023, NCNW held a welcome reception at the MGM National Harbor Hotel celebrating the appointment of Rev. Shavon Arline-Bradley as the organization’s first president and CEO. As the first woman to serve in the role under NCNW’s restructuring, Rev. ArlineBradley took the opportunity to unveil NCNW’s agenda under her leadership. She made it clear that the “New Era” agenda will focus on bridging the generational gap, engaging youth and collegiate sections, and providing progressive opportunities for the next generation of Black female leaders.
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The “Celebrating a New Era” event honored the vision and legacy of NCNW Founder, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune and President Emerita Dr. Dorothy I. Height yet encouraged the participation and activism of the current generation. Several college students were invited as honored guests for being part of the inaugural class of the Height Scholars program, a scholarship that honors excellence for work at the intersection of civil rights and technology. The scholarship program, a partnership between the Dorothy I. Height Education Foundation, and funded by Meta Platforms Inc., formerly Facebook Inc., granted awardees $10,000 each to complete their education.
The evening would not have been a success without the support of NCNW partner Meta; friends, Pitt Financial and Insurance Agency, American Cancer Society, Vertex; and associates, The Hub Strategists, Gramercy Research Group, and MBB Affiliates. NCNW is an “organization of organizations,” comprised of 330 campus and community-based sections and 33 national women’s organizations, that enlightens, inspires, and connects more than 2,000,000 women and men. Its mission is to lead, advocate for, and empower women of African descent, their families, and communities. It was founded in 1935 by Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, an influential educator and activist, and for more than 50 years, the iconic Dr. Dorothy Height was president of NCNW. Today, NCNW programs are grounded on a foundation of critical concerns that are now NCNW Priorities. The organization promotes education; encourages entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and economic stability; educates women about health and promotes healthcare access, and promotes civic engagement and advocates for sound public policy and social justice. On the future of NCNW, President Arline-Bradley said, “You know NCNW is prepared. We are poised and ready to lead. We are preparing to mobilize people, and to advance new policies that are affecting women of African descent and their families. We’re also revitalizing programs, and we are solidifying our infrastructure.”
New York Times best-selling author Luvvi Ajayi Jones served as emcee for the evening and guided community leaders, corporate sponsors and advocacy partners through a ceremony filled with African-American history and culture. The program inspired and enlightened guests of all ages as the Alfred Street Baptist Church Praise Team ushered in the Spirit before Rev. Dr. Howard-John Wesley, Senior Pastor, brought a powerful message. In his remarks, Pastor Wesley reminded the community of their role in supporting NCNW’s efforts to combat racial injustice. A surprise appearance from hip hop legend MC Lyte capped off the evening, as she played music from every era, allowing guests of all ages to share the dance floor.
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Dr. A. Lois Keith
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ELECTED NCNW BOARD CHAIR
he DeKalb Section of National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) honored Dr. A. Lois Keith at “Poised to Lead” Gala A Celebration in Honor of Dr. Lois Keith on March 4 at the Crowne Plaza Ravinia in Atlanta. This event was an inaugural event as the DeKalb Section plans to have this annual gala to recognize notable women in their community who possess leadership, who are poised and are committed to service. This first celebration gala recognized Dr. Keith’s work with the organization for many years on the local, state, and national levels, “We are so very proud of Dr. Keith and the work she does in the community and for NCNW locally, statewide, and nationally,” said Derrica Williams, president, DeKalb Section, NCNW. “While we have enjoyed having a National Chair from Atlanta, Sister Ingrid Saunders Jones, DeKalb County has never had the honor of being home to the person filling the position of NCNW National Board Chair. Her years of dedication cannot be ignored as we honored her for past, present, and future endeavors. We just love her. All of her contributions to the section, the county, the state of Georgia and this country made Dr. Keith the perfect person to honor at our inaugural Poised To Lead Gala.” Chronicles of her good deeds were shared by many guests to include Ga. State House Representative Rhonda Taylor, CEO of DeKalb County, Ga. Michael L. Thurmond, DeKalb County, Ga. Commissioner Lorraine Cochran Johnson, and DeKalb County, Ga. Clerk of Superior Court Debra DeBerry. Special guest Ambassador Andrew Young shared personal stories of Dr. Keith’s life’s work rooted in her dedication to education and uplifting her community.
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BY TONITA PERRY
Dr. Keith has a proven track record of leadership in the DeKalb Section and has served as the president, first and second vice president, recording secretary and has chaired several signature events like the Christmas Gala and Tea With A “Hat-Titude”. She continues to serve as a leader in the section and locally in the community, even though she holds the office of national chair. The section has a summer camp partnership with the DeKalb County Sheriff and DeKalb Section member Melody Maddox and Dr. Keith recently served as an advisor, mentor and guest speaker throughout the camp. During the 60th national convention held in Washington, D.C. on December 2022, she was elected chair of the board for NCNW After 88 years, the organization changed its governance structure to work more efficiently, and Dr. Keith will now serve as the national chair of the board charged with overseeing the implementation of the NCNW vision and mission. There were close to 500 people in attendance. To continue a month of recognitions for Dr. Keith, on March 26 she received the 2023 Trailblazer Award presented by U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson of the Fourth Congressional District of Georgia. Special guests Poet Laureate Hank Stewart recited a poem honoring the awardees and trumpeter Melvin M. Miller performed a solo to recognize the trailblazers. The Trailblazer Award is given in recognition of Women’s History Month and honorees being firsts in their fields. Dr. Keith, one of 17 recipients, was honored for being a community leader who advocates for teachers and youth.
Dr. Keith is a retired educator, who is a champion for equitable education. She had a stellar teaching career with the Henry County School System for 30 years, in addition to serving as the math department chair and Beta Club sponsor. Her many accolades include Teacher of the Year 1991-92 and 2000-2001, nomination to Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers, and the Principal’s Award 1995-1996. Over the course of her expansive work in community service and education, Dr. Keith has received several awards and accolades including a proclamation from the state of Georgia for her service to NCNW and the community.
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C O M C A STC O R P O R AT I O N .C O M / D I V E R S I T Y
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Retreat Recap
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CNW kicked off its first board retreat at the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C. April 1-2, 2023 – a fitting location for the historical first board retreat under the new organizational structure. Led by President and CEO Rev. Shavon Arline-Bradley and National Chair Dr. A. Lois Keith, the retreat consisted of team-building exercises and strategizing workshops conducted by Makani Themba, noted author, strategist and facilitator.
President and CEO Rev. Shavon Arline-Bradley discusses NCNW priorities and infrastructure changes during the first Board of Directors retreat at the Gaylord National Harbor (top) and the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C., April 1-2, 2023.
“At the heart of this retreat was the vision of what the essence of an NCNW woman should be,” President Arline-Bradley expressed to board members during the retreat.
health and freedom, the digital divide, Anti-Critical Race Theory legislation, equal pay for women, and policing policy, all of which have informed NCNW’s current policy agendas, communications and programming.
The board utilized the convening to not only realign themselves as a group, but to hone in on general areas of interest that NCNW will focus on in this new era of leadership. Issue areas, as voted on by the board, stemmed from Medicaid, reproductive
The weekend ended with a working breakfast at the Gaylord National Harbor Hotel where members of the board expressed renewed excitement about the new direction leadership wished to take NCNW and pledged to support their collective efforts as a board to launch NCNW into a new era.
NCNW BOARD MEMBERS Dr. A. Lois Keith, Chair of the Board Dr. Thelma T. Daley, Immediate Past President/Chair of the Board; Chair, Affiliates Dr. Alotta E. Taylor, Vice Chair Ms. Chanelle Johnson, Vice Chair (Young Adult), Tri-Chair, Young Adult & Collegiate Affairs Committee Ms. Dawna Michelle Fields, Vice Chair & Co-Chair, National Bethune/Height Recognition Program Ms. Tempress (Tee) Solomon, Vice Chair, Co-Chair, Affiliates Committee Ms. Willease Williams, Recording Secretary Ms. Diamond Butler, Assistant Recording Secretary Ms. Geralund Smith, Treasurer Dr. Linda Hunt, Assistant Treasurer Ms. Deborah Tucker, Member-At-Large Ms. Diane Larche, Member-At-Large & Chair, Membership Committee Dr. Helena J. Johnson, Member-At-Large Ms. Joan Durnell Powell, Member-At-Large Ms. Kieanna Childs Alexander, Member-AtLarge
Ms. Loretta Gray, Member-At-Large, Co-Chair, Human Trafficking Ms. Sandra Gipson, Member-At-Large, Chair, Human Trafficking Awareness Committee Dr. Barbara Williams-Skinner, Chaplain Ms. Deborah W. Foster, Historian Ms. Theljewa Garrett, Parliamentarian Mrs. Johnnie Walker, Co-Chair, National Bethune/ Height Recognition Program Ms. Alicia Lewis, Chair, Bylaws Committee Rev. Dr. Michele Hagans, Chair, Building Committee Ms. Loretta Tillery, Chair, Election Committee The Honorable Constance B. Newman, Chair, Finance & Audit Ms. Sharah Denton, Chair, Health Equity Committee Dr. Angelia Elgin, Co-Chair, Health Equity Committee Ms. Beverly Smith, Co-Chair, International Affairs Committee Ms. Leah Daughtry, Co-Chair, International Affairs Committee Ms. Regina Majors, Co-Chair, Membership Ms. Beverly Beavers-Brooks, Chair, Nominating Committee Ms. Paulette Norvel Lewis, Chair, Program Committee
Dr. Tamara Wilds Lawson, Co-Chair, Program Committee Ms. Roslyn Brock, Resource & Development The Honorable Patricia W. Lattimore, Co-Chair, Resource and Development Committee Dr. Doreen Loury, Co-Chair, Social Justice Committee Ms. Kimberly Underdue, Co-Chair, Social Justice Committee Ms. Arion Jamerson, Tri-Chair, Young Adult & Collegiate Affairs Committee Ms. Gabrielle Rogers, Tri-Chair, Young Adult & Collegiate Affairs Committee The Honorable Alexis M. Herman, Senior Advisor to the Chair The Honorable Minyon Moore, Special Consultant
NCNW EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP
Rev. Shavon Arline-Bradley, President & CEO Ms. Krystal Ramseur Ali, National Chief Operations Officer Ms. Janice L. Mathis, General Counsel
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The Economic Legacy of
DR. MARY McLEOD BETHUNE
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BY JULIANNE MALVEAUX
xcept at the college she founded, Bethune Cookman University, or in the halls of the National Council of Negro Women, we don’t often hear much about Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune. We should – she was a brilliant educator, thought leader, and connector. She worked tirelessly for racial and economic justice and racial equality. I enjoy reading her last will, an inspirational document that encapsulates her life’s work. Among the “future challenges” she enumerates, we also find the details of her economic legacy. “As long as Negroes are hemmed into racial blocks by prejudice and pressure, it will be necessary for them to band together for economic betterment. Negro banks, insurance companies, and other businesses are examples of successful racial economic enterprises. These institutions were made possible by vision and mutual aid.”
Dr. Julian Malveaux
In that small part of her will, Dr. Bethune laid out an economic philosophy of ujamaa, or cooperative economics, one of the seven principles of Kwanzaa. She reminds us of our economic foundations, of the historic enterprises that were successful because people came together. Our banks, insurance companies, and enterprises were all a function of us, in her words, banding together for economic betterment. Bethune expected us to spread out “far and fast,” and she eschewed economic separatism. But the economic exclusion of Black people is hardwired into the American system of predatory capitalism. Things changed since Bethune wrote her last will in 1955, the same year she died. We have more wealthy Black people, many highly visible. But, we still have persistent poverty, a gaping wealth gap, and unemployment rates twice as high as those of whites.
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In this context, the wisdom of Dr. Bethune is valuable, especially when she charges us to have more confidence in each other. It is also useful now as we are on the cusp of a recession. Stock prices are fluctuating and trending downward. Inflation is increasing. Interest rates are rising, pushing home prices and rents up. Gasoline prices average more than $5 a gallon. Her words suggest that we must both look outward for economic opportunities and inward with “confidence in each other” for ways to secure our economic future. As most Black people will feel an economic pinch, we must examine ways we can “help each other as we go.” The massacre at Tops market in Buffalo reminded us that many of us live in food deserts. Many of us don’t. Is there a way for nonprofit organizations to help us bridge the gap between those who live in food-rich areas and those who live in food deserts? Bethune would likely suggest there is such a bridge. COVID-19 hit the Black community hard but also enabled (or forced) many folks into entrepreneurship. Black men and women are offering a range of services, from educational services (tutoring and coaching) to food services (catering or selling baked goods), to information technology and web design, and more. Can we band together to seek out Black entrepreneurs to meet our needs? Our banding together doesn’t have to stay at the “mom and pop” level. Can Black entrepreneurs consider merging to create more economic efficiencies? Dr. Bethune’s wish that we develop enough confidence in each other to band together economically is especially relevant at “a time such as this.” Her powerful will is not only “must-reading” but also a compelling inspiration. We must savor her wisdom, augment her words, and embrace her economic legacy.
“confidence in each other” 20
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DR. MARY McLEOD BETHUNE WEEK
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BY PARYS A. GRIGSBY
n July 10, 2022, the 147th celebration of Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune’s birthday, NCNW had a special visit with Nancy Lohman, president of the Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Statuary Fund Board of Directors. During the visit she and master sculptor Nilda Comas toured the historic halls of NCNW’s headquarters, the only Black-owned building on Pennsylvania Ave., and admired the portraits of Dr. McLeod Bethue and Dr. Dorothy Irene Height. Mrs. Lohman commemorated the visit by becoming a Legacy-Life member of NCNW in honor of Dr. McLeod Bethune.
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HER LABOR OF LOVE COULD NOT BE CONTAINED IN HER YEARS ON THIS EARTH. The Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Statuary Fund is a 16-member board with a cross-section of Floridians responsible for funding and coordinating the marble statue for the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC. Unveiled on July 13, 2022, Dr. McLeod Bethune is the first Black American memorialized in the National Statuary Hall. Distinguished guests for the unveing event included: former Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi; Florida State Representatives Val Demings and Frederica Wilson; former House Majority Whip Representative James E. Clyburn; and NCNW’s then President Dr. Thelma T. Daley. Ms. Comas is the first Hispanic American woman to sculpt a statue for the National Satuary Hall. “Dr. Bethune’s statue represents the best we are, of Florida and of America,” Mrs. Lohman remarked during the ceremony. The unveiling cermony featured remarks from a range of state and national leaders, each heradling Dr. McLeod Bethune’s legacy of education and service to a range of audiences, including Presidents, veterans, and Black Americans. As a testament to this commitment, her statue shows her wearing a cap and gown, carrying a
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cane gifted by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, and holding a Black rose as a represenation of the many students whose lives she touched. Along with founding Bethune Cookman University (then known as Daytona Educational and Industrial Training School for Negro Girls) and serving as the founding President of NCNW, Dr. McLeod Bethune was named the director of Negro Affairs of the National Youth Administration under President Roosevelt, and was the only woman of color at the founding conference of the United Nations. She also played integral roles in founding the United Negro College Fund, integrating the Red Cross, and ensuring that Black youth across the country had access to education. “Her labor of love could not be contained in her years on this Earth. Her contributions will touch generations yet unborn,” said Representative Demings. The Bethune Statuary Fund also supported the bronze statue commissioned for Bethune Plaza in Daytona Beach Riverfront Esplanade Park, a feature-length documentary, a K-12 curriculum module, and the Daytona Beach Statue Exhibit.
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t starts with a dream and often those dreams start with representation. Very rarely can young Black women and girls turn on the tv or go to the movies and see reflections of themselves as a scientist, engineer or the boss of a major technology company. Those are not the dreams manifested for us on film and this is a problem for more than one reason. The lack of representation in Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) environments affects us every day in the work place by limiting the roles that employers and investors offer Black females. This lack of representation is not only personal – it is systemic. Discrimination and exclusion are built into the artificial intelligence (AI) and code which all human beings must interact with on a daily basis to survive in this digital age. Submitted a job application online? That’s AI, unlocked your cell phone with your face or finger? That’s AI. Did any banking? Chances are high that at some point in the process you interacted with AI. There is potential to be discriminated against before we have even been seen and before we have even said a word.
DEVELOPMENT
BY REBEKAH WATSON
It’s only for a while because the program is currently limited to its initial 14 billion dollar budget and uptake has been low. In fact, of the estimated 48 million households that qualify for the ACP the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has reported that so far only 10 million households have registered. To put this in perspective of the 100 percent of the persons eligible for the program only about roughly 20 percent of that number have taken up the offer. This is a problem and the FCC recognizes that and, in an effort to boost uptake the FCC in 2022 announced that they would be offering a grant to nonprofits and community organizations to get participation numbers trending upwards.
& PROGRAMS
ACP and Me
In March 2023, the FCC announced that NCNW had been the recipient of one of its outreach grants to the tune of $740,000.00 dollars. The NCNW is taking that grant money to do outreach work in rural Mississippi.
But how can we change this? How can we start to SEE ourselves? And make sure that decision makers in education, business and industry fully see our talent, drive and potential? The Answer? Narrowing the digital divide through digital equity and that starts with using the services and opportunities provided to us, services like the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The ACP is a U.S. government program that helps qualifying low income households pay for broadband service and internet connected devices. The program can provide households with up to $30 dollars off of broadband connections per month (up to $75 for qualifying Tribal land households) and a onetime discount of up to $100 towards the purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers* Many Internet Service Providers (ISPs) have broadband plans below or within this $30 dollar bracket which essentially means free internet at least for a while anyway.
We need this. The money under the ACP program is set to run out by mid 2024. If we don’t show the government that this is a needed program then it’s likely to be defunded. Without participation, without voices, without action, we cannot show the government that people take Internet access seriously and that it is not just nice to have, it is a necessity – a human right as equal to food and water. As Black mothers, sisters, educators and leaders, we need to see this as an opportunity to encourage our wards and ourselves to take advantage of
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every chance available to us through the use of the Internet. This is an opportunity to get online and learn a new skill like coding, find a new job, or even impart your knowledge on other out there who feel that their voice is not heard. This is your opportunity to be heard and seen and to discover and show off your God-given gifts and talents and to compete on the local and global scene. Let us use this opportunity to destroy those unseen barriers so that we as Black women can continue to rise so that in every environment and every context our children see that we take up space and cannot be ignored, we are represented. NCNW looks forward to your support as we continue to champion the need for equitable access to the internet so that black women and their families in America have the opportunity to thrive economically, financially, in their health and overall well being.
Bright Smiles, Bright Futures Grant BY JADE WALKER
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he Bright Smiles, Bright Futures Grant sponsored by Colgate promotes oral health for children with weekly social media posts, articles in Sisters Magazine, radio interviews, and quarterly virtual events. NCNW Sections are eligible to host the BSBF van that provides oral screenings and referrals to participating youth, free of charge. BSBF is promoted on radio, email, and social media platforms, specifically you can view one of the oral health webinars titled ‘Send Them Back to School with a Smile Easy Steps to Kids Oral Health’ on NCNW’s youtube page. NCNW has used this partnership to promote a variety of events such as dental career webinars and oral health townhalls where NCNW trained caregivers provided expert advice about the important roles that oral health plays in overall health. In addition to providing experiential anecdotes from parents and guardians, including BSBF parents and guardians about overcoming hesitation, reticence for dental care. Data from 2011 - 2016, has shown children from ages 2 to 5 years, 28% of non-Hispanic Black children had cavities in their primary teeth compared with 18% of non-Hispanic White children. In this partnership NCNW created a resource bank for parents, caregivers, and
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educators on the vital importance of oral examination and care for children ages 0-12 years old. NCNW hosted Town Halls which reach 100,000 families to inform them on the links between oral health and other overall health disparities that affect the African American communities. Oral health information has been sent to over 13,000 individuals and reached over 3,000 views on NCNW’s social media platforms. Colgate has been a partner in NCNW initiatives such as the CDC GoodHealthWins grant and events such as the 2021 Uncommon Height Gala: the partnership has been so successful this National Program has prompted events through NCNW Sections from Texas, California, New York State, Washington, D.C. and many more locations within the United States.
DIVA 2.0: 12 Life Lessons from Me to You
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re you ready for the Sheryl Lee Ralph DIVA 2.0 Book Sales Competition? The NCNW Section/ Affiliate/Group that sells the most books will receive a book talk with accomplished Emmy-award winning actress Sheryl Lee Ralph. To be eligible, all Sections/Affiliates/Groups must sell a minimum of $300 worth of books, hardback and/or e-book. The dollar amount sold beyond the minimum of $300 will be the determining factor as to which NCNW Section/ Affiliate/Group is the winner.
All books must be purchased through the NCNW book sales portal for NCNW Sections/Affiliates/Groups to receive credit for sales. The competition started on Oct. 1, 2023 and runs through Nov. 30, 2023, and the winner announced at the Uncommon Height Gala on Dec. 8. To receive credit for books sold, please indicate your Section/Affiliate/Group name in the “Optional Notes” section. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to NCNW. Good luck!
Good Health WINs - An Infrastructure of Trust to Build Vaccine Confidence BY SYNOVIA MOSS AND ADWOA OSEI
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s COVID-19 moves from pandemic to endemic, NCNW continues to answer the call to address health disparities in the US. Good Health Women’s Immunization Networks (Good Health WINs) is a CDC grant entitled “Partnering With National Organizations to Increase Vaccination Coverage Across Racial and Ethnic Disparities”. The Good Health WINS network is comprised of NCNW State Organizations/ Sections, National Affiliates, National Partners, and the National Pan-Hellenic Council(Divine Nine Greek Letter Organizations). Good Health WINs is now one of the largest African-American Networks of trusted messengers with a reach of 4.5 million people. As reputable and respected trusted voices in communities across the country, NCNW’s Good Health WINs initiative continues to build capacity and implement planned strategies, activities, and events to assure barriers to vaccines are addressed and that black communities experience fewer disparities during COVID-19. Good Health WINs provides thousands of vaccination opportunities, vaccination education, and works with the CDC to help identify the drivers of vaccine hesitancy. Our network of national and local sections, chapters, and community partners help raise the awareness of the importance of vaccines across the lifespan.
Use and share the link or scan the QR code to purchase your copy TODAY! https://bit.ly/SLRDIVA2
Through our innovative efforts, Good Health WINs and other community based organizations across the country helped to reduce COVID-19 disparities from 14 percentage points to less than 5 percent. Our trusted messenger network hosted health fairs, town hall meetings, vaccine clinics, vaccine tabling events, vaccine and voting events, distributed vaccine information at HBCU tailgating events, passed out thousands of “I’m Vaccinated” buttons, launched a “Get the Facts. Boost the Truth” media campaign, and so much more to address vaccine hesitancy and access. We continue to increase the range of trusted community messengers supporting vaccine education and delivery and deliver millions of community or populationspecific messages. The range and diversity of covid/ Volume XI | 2023
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flu/vaccination specific events and educational opportunities touch every demographic (adults, children, adolescents, college students, seniors, men and women alike). Good Health WINs infrastructure is solidified through thousands of partnerships between providers and community level sections and chapters. From private/ public partnerships with Uber to provide thousands of rides to vaccine clinics and pharmacies to creative events to touch the community at large, the Good Health WINs infrastructure of trust continues to showcase our “grassroots” response to the pandemic. Through the Good Health WINs initiative our collaborations include healthcare providers (healthcare systems, federally qualified health centers, mobile vaccine clinics, pharmacies, etc) to recommend COVID-19, influenza, and other life-saving vaccines. NCNW’s Good Health WINs initiative has not gone unnoticed. We recently provided presentations at the World Vaccine Congress(WVC), National Adult Influenza and Immunization Summit(NAIIS), National Conference on Immunization Coalitions and Partnerships(NCICP), American Public Health Association (APHA), and the National Governors Association Vaccine Summit for Governors Health Policy Advisors. NCNW Good Health WINs continues to increase equity in the distribution administration of COVID-19 and all vaccines. We strive to build community confidence in vaccines to reduce the stigma and implicit bias associated with vaccines.
Good Health WINs Project Managers and NPHC National Presidents
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Inaugural Project Height Scholarship Honors 27 Students BY WHITNEY GUILFORD
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echnology has proven to be an integral piece in the evolution of civil rights in the 21st century, with hashtags on Twitter demanding justice and police accountability, the rise of racially-biased Artificial Intelligence (AI), and the persistence of the digital divide, which leaves people of color without access to critical resources that provide necessities like healthcare and education. With these issues at the forefront, it is abundantly clear that investment in the next generation of leaders requires support for research efforts at the intersection of technology and civil rights. To address this need, in February 2023, NCNW in partnership with the Dorothy Irene Height Foundation (DIHEF) and Meta, launched the inaugural Project Height Scholarship, which provides financial support to undergraduate and graduate students with career interests at the intersection of technology and civil rights. Named after Dr. Dorothy Irene Height, who was president of NCNW for over 40 years, the program awarded twenty-seven scholarships of $10,000 to students across a wide range of disciplines throughout the country. Awardees were also invited to attend the NCNW “Celebrating a New Era” cocktail event, where they were presented with certificates from Meta representatives, and received personal congratulations from President and CEO Shavon Arline-Bradley, and National Chair Dr. A. Lois Keith. The students in fulfillment of their obligations towards the scholarship and in pursuance of their own personal and career growth had to complete several workshops led by Meta’s civil rights team including Meta’s Chief Technology Officer Andrew “Boz” Bosworth, Meta’s VP of Civil Rights and Facebook General Counsel Roy L. Austin , and Julie Wenah Associate General Counsel and Product Lead for
myeloma, but also develop the disease about five to 10 years earlier.
the Civil Rights Team. All workshops and seminars centered around the intersection of civil rights and technology and focused on topics such as data science and technology and privacy. The program continues to kick into gear over the summer months as NCNW, along with the DIHEF prepare to match the 27 students with mentors from its organizations to provide advice and a listening ear to help the scholars accelerate their personal and professional development in order to ensure success.
In efforts to spread awareness of prostate cancer and prevention, NCNW collaborated with 100 Black Men and will host a webinar opportunity in the fall of 2023 to discuss the importance of screenings and prostate health. As an organization of Black women, we understand the importance of keeping Black men healthy in efforts to sustain families and communities. Our conversations with 100 Black Men allows NCNW to explore ways to encourage the Black men in our community to get their screenings, be informed and take the weight of the shoulders off their loved ones. NCNW will also continue its work in the health equity space with an additional $200,000 awarded by Sanofi to continue our work on the very real threat of influenza, RSV and the steps we can take to stop the spreading of illness. Visit NCNW.org to learn more about this effort, how you can detect and prevent multiple myeloma and prostate cancer and how to support those living with it.
Congratulations again to the scholars, and with your continued hard work, success is all but assured. NCNW and the DIHEF would once again like to thank Meta for the partnership and all involved look forward to continuing to strengthen the relationship in the united goal of empowering Black women, their families, and their communities across the globe.
Sanofi and 100 Black Men Support NCNW Initiative BY DARA K. TILGHMAN
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CNW is proud to announce the recent award of $100,000 from Sanofi to bring awareness to multiple myeloma and prostate cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute, Black Americans are not only at twice the risk of white Americans for multiple
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advocacy in action National Council of Negro Women’s Inaugural Social Justice Committee BY DR. DOREEN LOURY, CO-CHAIR SOCIAL JUSTICE COMMITTEE Social justice is a quintessential aspect of the National Council of Negro Women mission. The work of Mary McLeod Bethune resonated with politicians, small business owners, and the average person looking to improve their condition in life. Ms. Bethune wrote extensively about transforming social and economic policy, and her writings have never been more relevant as the racial wealth gap continues to increase, and hate crimes have found a welcome home in extremist groups. In August 2022, 8th National President Dr. Thelma T. Daley appointed 13 women leaders from our membership to steer the inaugural NCNW Social Justice Committee. Social justice can be defined as pursuing the equitable distribution of political, economic, and social resources to enhance opportunities for marginalized groups. This committee was created, to be more intentional as we engage in critical social justice issues, seek to amplify the voices of African-American women and their families, advise on social and racial equity issues to our sections and leadership, and assist in developing strategies that will support NCNW continuing to be a vehicle of collective empowerment. Additionally, the Social Justice Committee will be “looking at the big picture” and then “connecting the dots” to immediate, specific and realistic goals and objectives that can make concrete improvements to the communities that we serve. At NCNW’s 60th National Convention the Social Justice Committee presented a session entitled: ‘What Does Social Justice Look Like for NCNW?” The goals of the session were to promote social justice in ways that were more than performative, and also accountable to marginalized groups. The session examined the five main principles of social justice which are: access to resources, equity, participation, diversity, and human rights. The committee also sought to examine how the five main principles align with the mission of NCNW “… to lead, empower and advocate for women of African
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descent, their families and communities;” impact the tenets of the “Four for the Future” programming; and guide both National and Section strategists as advocates for sound public policy and social justice. NCNW has always been in the forefront of understanding that the tenets of social justice are a communal effort dedicated to creating and sustaining a fair and equal society in which each person and all groups are valued and affirmed. This is accomplished as the organization and its affiliates work to facilitate efforts to end systemic violence, racism, and all systems that devalue the dignity and humanity of any person. We recognize the legacy of past injustices and how they still surround us; therefore, the Social Justice Committee hopes to position itself in ways that garner efforts to empower individual and communal action in supporting the full implementation of human and civil rights. MEMBERS OF THE SOCIAL JUSTICE COMMITTEE: CO-CHAIRS: Dr. Doreen Loury & Kim Underdue Kieanna Childs Alexander Iesha Brooks Susie Johnson Claudia J. Postell, Esq. (Thru 2023) Debora Richardson Crystal Robinson Rouse Dr. Elsie Scott Kuszchander Scott Dr. Latisha Forster Scott Bianca Shaw Selena Mendy Singleton, Esq. APPOINTED IN 2023: Tamia Booker Vanessa Gridden
NCNW Position Statement on Reproductive Justice In a time when the judicial system has been weaponized to remove a woman’s right to maintain bodily autonomy, NCNW is committed to ensuring women have access to life-saving reproductive health care. To answer this current threat, the National Executive Board of NCNW voted on and approved the following position statement on June 16, 2023: n
Freedom is the foundational tenet of American citizenship. For centuries, despite enslavement and Jim Crow atrocities, we have endeavored to achieve our treasured freedoms to worship, marry, learn, travel and express contrasting views.
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Among these sacred civil rights, NCNW believes passionately in the sacred freedom of every woman to make decisions about her own body. In 1989, and in collaboration with Black women leaders, our own visionary president, Dr. Dorothy I. Height, released: African American Women are for Reproductive
Freedom.” This public stance, and the passage of the NCNW resolution on women’s reproductive health during the December 2022 Convention, solidified our commitment to protecting Black women’s agency and accountability over their lives and continue to be core values for our membership. n
NCNW rejects and will resist efforts to deny, reduce or extinguish these freedoms, whether by legislators, courts, extremist activists, or economic circumstances. We do not presume to dictate how women choose to manage their health, or the health of their families, and neither should any other person or system of oppression. We stand firmly for the proposition that the government should not have the power to invade the sanctity of a woman’s conscience. Our determination to protect a woman’s right to choose from among the full range of safe and effective health care options is consistent with public policy, the beliefs of most Americans, and aligns with the liberation traditions of the Black experience. Any system that doubts or seeks to control the judgment or capacity of women of African descent will be met with peaceful resistance.
NCNW Rallys for Freedoms BY TONITA PERRY In Washington, D.C., the National Council of Negro Women led the Freedom to Learn Coalition in a rally on Wednesday, May 3, to mark National Day of Action. The act brought awareness to the Coalition’s dedication to defend against the banning of books in cities and school systems around the country, as well as demonstrated that giving into the demands of anti-woke legislative agendas is not an option. They also supported the teaching of Black History on K-12 levels with the understanding that Black History is United States history.
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Additional speakers for the occasion were Melanie Campbell of Black Women’s Roundtable; Wisdom Cole of NAACP – Youth and College Division; Dr. Freddie Haynes of Friendship-West Baptist Church – Dallas; Damon Hewitt of Committee for Civil Rights Under the Law; Darly C. Jones of Transformative Justice Coalition; Emily Leugers of National Black Justice Coalition; and Dr. Starsky Wilson of Children’s Defense Fund.
Close to 200 supporters, made up of the NCNW DMV sections, Morgan State University Collegiate Section and students, the Divine 9, social justice and civil rights organizations, and diverse individuals who believe in preserving these freedoms, marched from Dupont Circle Metro- South Entrance to the entrance of the College Board, where President and CEO Shavon Arline-Bradley led the charge in laying out the agenda for the cause. Her charge was supported by NCNW current board chair, Dr. A. Lois Keith, and immediate past board chair and president, Dr. Thelma Daley, who prompted the crowd in chants for them to continue to fight for justice through voting.
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Twenty-one states and counting have enacted statelevel measures that chill the honest examination of race and racism in this society. Such anti-truth legislation has been introduced in all but four states. The Freedom to Learn National Day of Action is a national resistance to interrupting the proliferating anti-equity, anti-truth movement that presents expanding threats to our democracy. The Coalition assumed a leadership role in fighting against widespread efforts by states to censor anti-racist thought and expression.
The Coalition is organized by African American Policy Forum and made up of NCNW; National Urban League; National Action Network; National Association for the Advancement of Colored People; The National Coalition on Black Civic Participation; Black Women’s Roundtable; Lawyer’s Committee for Civil Rights; Legal Defense Fund; The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights. Collectively, the organizations will assume a leadership role in fighting against widespread efforts by states to censor anti-racist thought and expression.
Other supported activations around the country for the day also included protests/rally, teachins, banned book read-a-thons, freedom circle or banned book club convening, community town hall, op-ed/blog publication, social media campaign, and/or engaging political/ education leaders.
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NCNW Supports Area Youth
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BY JANICE MATHIS, ESQ.
ifteen youth were named winners of the NCNW PEACE Youth Art and Culture Competition on Saturday June 17 during the Juneteenth Celebration at Cornish Park. The contest gave youth a voice in the future of their community. Victoria Jackson Swinney, former Mayor of Cambridge, commented, “We know teens are acutely aware of the social, economic and cultural forces that operate in the world around them. The PEACE competition is a way for them to express their thoughts and aspirations through art and culture.”
Christian Burton, a 13-year old student at Maces Lane Middle School, is pictured with his mother and Stephen Rideout, Mayor of Cambridge, MD. His artwork was inspired by his grandmother and the Black Lives Matter movement.
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PRIZE WINNERS INCLUDE TEENS: Christian Burton, Makayla Faulkner, Zyaye Bell, Timmia Brown, Ande Callahan, Keziah Cephas, Layla Cephas, Jazmyn Chandler, Oneisey Kreeger, Cassidy Mobray, Ta’nyha Murray, Amelia Schuyler, Kaleah Skinner, Brianna Smith, Laila Stafford. PEACE is an acronym for Protect, Encourage, Advise, Challenge and Empower.
Competition entries spanned video, drawings and poetry and expressed Black Lives Matter, mentoring, tolerance, economic opportunity, public safety and spirituality.
SECTIONNEWS ALBUQUERQUE SECTION On May 6th, the Albuquerque Section of NCNW held their Living Legends Awards Luncheon in partnership with Beta Nu Chapter of IOTA Phi Lambda’s Business Women of the Year Awards. The recipients of NCNW Living Legends were (pictured with Albuquerque
Neighborhood Center, their Community Engagement Team provided fresh vegetables, screenings, vaccines, and job opportunity information. Other vendors included members of the city’s Office of Emergency Management and Communication and Habilitative Systems, Inc. Our Health and Wellness members provided Blood Pressure screenings and distributed information on vaccines. Our speaker from the Cook County Sheriff’s Department educated teens and parents on the impact of opioids and fentanyl on our youth. There was also a seminar on Self-Care, along with Line-Dancing and Zumba for participants. Approximately 150 people, including volunteers, attended this phenomenal event.
FAYETTEVILLE AREA SECTION Economic Development/Financial Literacy
Section President, Cecilia Webb Whitehead) are Karla Causey, President of the NM Black Chamber of Commerce; Lori Waldon, General Manager of KOATTV 7; Nichole Rogers, Business Liaison in the Office of Black Community Engagement; and (not pictured) Cathryn McGill, Founder of NM Black History Month Organizing Committee and Director of Rainbow Studio Theater.
CHICAGO CENTRAL SECTION The Health and Wellness Committee of the Chicago Central Section, in partnership with the Will County Black Diamond Chapter of Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc., held a Community Health and Wellness Fair in Chicago on April 29, 2023. Held at Blue Cross Blue Shield
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The Fayetteville Area Section (N.C.) launched its FREE TAX PREPARATION program during the recent 2023 tax filing season. As an initiative of NCNW’s Economic Development/Financial Literacy, flyers were distributed. in the Greater Fayetteville community to African American churches, businesses and community centers to not only provide the free tax services, but to help them receive the refunds that they deserved. Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and TAX-Aid are IRSsponsored programs that provide free tax preparation for those who earn less than $60,000. These free tax filing sites are provided in-person, virtual, or drop-off. VITA filing locations serving the traditional African American community include Fayetteville State University (our
HBCU), Smith Recreation Center, Blue Street Senior Citizen Center, and Catholic Charities. Featured above are FAS President, Queen Degraphenreid (center), with Michael and Marilyn Henley, owners of Henley’s Vintage Kitchen, holding FAS Free Tax Preparation flyers that were distributed at their restaurant.
GREATER BRIDGEPORT SECTION
GEORGIA STATE UNIVERSITY COLLEGIATE SECTION
The Greater Bridgeport Section of NCNW worked with Habitat for Humanity of Coastal Fairfield County and local Harding High School students on a Beautification and Build Day event. We cleaned up approximately two square blocks where there are several Habitat for Humanity homes in a small section of the city. The Georgia State University Collegiate Section of the National Council of Negro Women is excited to share its award-winning community service initiative from the 2022-2023 academic year. The members of the Georgia State University section volunteered numerous hours with Discovery at various elementary schools in the Greater Atlanta community. Service involved engaging with students during their Saturday school programs in curricular, STEM, and recreational activities. The Georgia State University Collegiate Section was nominated for and awarded the Oustanding Community Service Program Award at Georgia State University’s Royal Flame Award Ceremony, where organizations are recognized for their contributions on and off campus. The section is elated to share this achievement with the national organization and looks forward to its continued commitment to service in the upcoming school year.
HOWARD UNIVERSITY COLLEGIATE SECTION Many influential women from NCNW’s history such as Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune and Dr. Dorothy Irene Height have committed themselves to eliminating obstacles to higher education. The Howard University Section is also committed to eliminating educational barriers. During April 2023, the section provided three scholarships to female high school seniors and college students in the Washington, DC area. The scholarship recipients demonstrated a commitment to making a difference in their community by demonstrating awareness and drive.
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LORAIN COUNTY SECTION Saturday March 18, 2023, the Lorain County Section, NCNW Inc. held its fifth annual Vision of Beauty Debutante Cotillion. The cotillion was held at the 8820 Venue in North Ridgeville, Ohio and was well attended by over 220 guests. The nine Debutantes that were introduced to the community during this family enrichment event were: Abigail Clayton, Elise McDonald, Jada McCall, Joy Benjamin, Kavonna Shepherd, Miriam Myers, Taviona Huff-Sales, Taylor Whitfield and Zaria Lee-Bruce. We are excited to witness how these brilliant minds will impact our world.
The Lorain County Section continues to fulfil the mission of NCNW to lead, empower and advocate for African American girls, their families and communities through family enrichment activities, events and collaborations. Congratulations to the Debutante Committee, their commitment to serve is greatly appreciated.
METRO JACKSON SECTION The Metro Jackson Section National Council of Negro Women, held its annual Senator Alice V. Harden Youth Summit in observance of Women’s History on March 3, 2023. Interactive sessions explored Health Equity, Social Justice, Economic Empowerment, and Education. Area business owners, elected officials, faith-based leaders, public policy educators, school officials, and mental health experts served as 36
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guest lecturers. Students in attendance received a certificate of participation. The Summit is named in honor of the late Mississippi Senator Alice Varnado Harden who dedicated her life to students enrolled in public school, had access to quality education, and community resources. The Metro Jackson Section NCNW is committed to continuing the work of Senator Harden and countless other Mississippi advocates for underserved children.Robinson is president of the St. Petersburg Section.
MORGAN STATE UNIVERSITY COLLEGIATE SECTION On Monday, April 17th, 2023, the Morgan State University section of the National Council of Negro Women kicked off their “Uplifting Sisters” week of events with a program titled “Black Women in the Arts.” Participants were able to learn about the contributions that Black women in the African Diaspora have made to the Arts and Humanities across various disciplines, such as fine art, film, theater, music, and authorship. Attendees enjoyed listening to an interview between bell hooks and Lil Kim, laughed at moments from the TV Show “Girlfriends,” and were inspired by the historic achievements of Ruby Dee and Gwendolyn Brooks. Morgan State N-Sistas gained familiarity with the personal and professional opportunities associated with art education and shared their personal reflections on why representation matters.
POTOMAC VALLEY SECTION
The Potomac Valley Section (PVS) of Silver Spring, MD, continues to celebrate its 25th anniversary by sustaining successful programs for youth. PVS’ signature Girls Rights of Passage (GROP) Program for nearly 25 years educates young girls 13-17 years of age in life skills development. In May 2023, PVS celebrated another class of graduates with a culminating Crossover Ceremony marked by special congratulatory tributes from Maryland’s U.S. Senators, U.S. Congressmen, area County/City Executives, and National NCNW’s President and CEO. Characterized by the year’s program theme, “Sisters of Powerful Positive Possibilities,” participants engaged in educational activities designed to help the girls strengthen their self-worth, spiritual values, and life skills as they transition from adolescence into adulthood. Workshops and activities covering various topics (e.g., effective communication, time management, conflict resolution, selfcare, stress management, community service) were facilitated by a Council of Elders comprised of professional educators, counselors, social workers, journalists, and health experts.
QUEENS COUNTY SECTION The Queens County Section in New York was awarded a $10,000 grant and held ‘The Power of Pregnancy’ events on 11/12/22 and 3/18/23 to address the Black maternal mortality crisis and racial inequities within the maternal health system. 22 pregnant residents of
color living in Southeast Queens and expecting fathers attended with their families to learn about this crisis and the benefit of receiving doula services to support healthier, equitable and safer experiences before, during and after birth. The program also included engaging presentations by the March of Dimes, an African-American OB/
GYN, fathering programs, maternal programs and a meditation instructor. NYC Mayor Eric Adams and NYC Councilmembers attended to pledge their continued support. Attendees were treated to a delicious lunch, relaxing chair massages and wellness gifts bags donated by several companies. Expecting parents were excited to receive gifts to help them prepare for birth. and parenthood!
RARITAN VALLEY SECTION The New Jersey Raritan Valley Section celebrated Black History Month by hosting an expert panel discussion titled “Shape the FutureRevitalizing the Promise of Public Education.” The panelist included education and community experts- Dr. Jacqueline Moore, Assistant Dean and Director of the School of Environmental and Biological Science, Rutgers University; Ms. Brenda Porter, MS, BSN, RN, CSN, East Orange STEM Academy; Ms. Maria C. Alvarez, Fund Development/Organizational Consultant. The interactive event was held at the Franklin Township Library in Somerset, NJ, with 30 attendees from local and nearby communities. Volume XI | 2023
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RESTON-DULLES SECTION the event was Dr. Ja’net Bishop-Nesbit, a skilled Certified Personal & Executive Coach specializing in life, wellness, and grief. With her expertise, she guided attendees in embracing all eight interconnected dimensions of wellness, empowering them to develop self-care habits and enhanced their quality of life. The event highlighted Spiritual, Social, Physical, Intellectual, Emotional, Occupational, Environmental, and Financial aspects of wellness. Reston-Dulles Section Celebrates 50th Anniversary! On April 16, 2023, the Reston-Dulles Section, NCNW, Inc. celebrated the 50th Anniversary of their Section with an Afternoon of Jazz in Reston, VA. Guests included local politicians and business owners, Sister Sections, NCNW affiliates and friends of NCNW. Founding member, Dr. Janice Winters, was in attendance and honored for her work in the community as well as her work as a founding member. Section anniversary recognitions were received from the Biden Administration, VA Senators Tim Kaine and Sen. Mark Warner and Rep. Gerry Connelly to name a few.
SAN GABRIEL VALLEY SECTION San Gabriel Valley Section of Southern California As part of its STEM program and partnership with the California Institute of Technology in Pasadena, CA (Caltech), the San Gabriel Valley Section (SGVNCNW) Young Legends (SGV-NCNW’s youth section) attended “Make a Difference Day” on May 20. 2023. The SGVNCNW group of 14 middle/high school students and 12 adults were treated to a campus tour of the
Good Health WINS was also a focal point of the event as we continue to promote health equity initiatives among our shared communities.
ROCKDALE-NEWTON SECTION The Rockdale-Newton, GA Section organized a community event called “8 Dimensions of Wellness,” aimed at promoting overall well-being. Leading
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institute, various presentations (a mix of sharing cool STEM research and nerdy hobbies), and lunch. During the past 2 academic school years, Caltech graduate/undergraduate students provided weekly one-on-one online Math tutoring to SGV-NCNW students in grade 1 - 12. This program helps students gain competency in Math foundations, improve skills, and prepare for college. SGV-NCNW receives excellent support from Caltech (a worldrenowned science and engineering institute) and is proud of this collaboration. SGV-NCNW looks forward to continuing this collaboration next school term.
SPRINGFIELD SECTION The National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), Springfield Section, donated professional attire to Central State University, Ohio’s only public HBCU. The initiative, inspired by Mary McLeod Bethune’s spirit, aims to empower college students preparing for interviews. The sizable gift aligns with the NCNW’s mission to empower young people. The Career Services Office expressed gratitude, recognizing the value of supporting students’ professional development. The university’s Marauder Closet provides essential resources, ensuring students have access to proper attire for professional events. This act of empowerment by the Clark County/Springfield Section echoes Bethune’s legacy and emphasizes the organization’s commitment to equipping emerging professionals. The Career Services Office expects the impact of this support to be far-reaching and an ongoing partnership will provide relationships to help students thrive. Section President Marsha Norris stated that supporting our HBCUs ensures the success of future generations and is high on the section’s agenda.
ST. PETERSBURG METROPOLITAN SECTION National President/CEO Keynote Speaker for the 81st Anniversary Celebration of the St. Petersburg Metropolitan Section NCNW national President/CEO Rev. Shavon ArlineBradly delivered the keynote address at the St. Petersburg Metropolitan Section’s 81st Anniversary with call for social action, “When Character Calls”. The event held on May 7, 2023 at the Marriott-St. Petersburg is an annual event that highlights the legacy of Fannye Ayer Ponder, the founder of the St. Petersburg Metropolitan Section which was established in 1942. The celebration’s message urged NCNW affiliates and friends to collectively band together to combat injustices. The call to action emphasized that NCNW is alive and well, that the character of the NCNW woman continues to shine, we are ready to fight for freedom and justice and that we are one NCNW who values intergenerational leadership and understand the power of collective action. President Arline-Bradley’s overarching take away was the question: “Are you ready to take on this mantle with us?”.
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SUFFOLK SECTION Members of the Kappa League at Wyandanch Memorial High School, Wyandanch, NY an organization started by Principal Paul Sibblies to keep young male students out of gangs went to Africa in Spring 2023 on an educational trip to put these young men in touch with their roots. They learned about the history and culture of Ghana.
the amazing accomplishments in the community that have been achieved through its programs. Some of the services provided to the community through the programs are: Saving Ourselves Sisters, its HIV – AIDS Awareness Program, its national Good Health Wins Program, and its partnership with The Knowledge Shop where members of View Park tutor students in reading, math, and science. During the Purple Hat Affair event, View Park honored Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell. Supervisor Mitchell represents the 2nd supervisorial district of Los Angeles County. View Park will continue its work while remembering Dr. Bethune’s vision to lead, advocate for, and empower women, families, & communities.
WESTCHESTER NY SECTION The NCNW Westchester NY Section held a successful Membership/Voter Registration Drive at the Greenburg Public Library in Elmsford, NY during Black History Month 2023. Invited guests reflected on the importance of voting to have all voices heard on matters affecting the Since their return, their mission was to send school supplies back to students living in Ghana. NCNW Suffolk Section was pleased to help provide bookbags with supplies for this worthy purpose. Featured in the photo is Mrs. Deborah Richberg, Suffolk Section 1st VP with members of the Kappa League.
VIEW PARK SECTION
NCNW View Park Section Los Angeles recently held its 3rd annual Purple Hat Affair High Tea Event. This event is View Park’s fundraiser for a few of its programs which includes Saving Ourselves Sister (SOS) Program, and its educational programs. View Park is excited about 40
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community. Speakers included Congressman Jamaal Bowman, County Executive, George Latimer, and Westchester Deputy County Executive, Ken Jenkins. Section members presented African American History and NCNW History. Performances included Praise Dance presentations by the TDYCC Falcons Youth Dance Team of the Theodore D. Young Community Center in the Town of Greenburgh, NY. An original Spoken Word by 15-year old Nathan Hinton and, in tribute to Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, the song “My Legacy” was performed by Mrs. Juana Johnson. Young adults as well as youth registered to vote and several joined the Westchester Section.
Upcoming EVENTS NCNW CALENDAR OF EVENTS, AFFILIATE EVENTS, AND NCNW BHRP EVENTS
Good Health Wins National Town Hall on the Flu With NFID and ApHA October 5, 2023 Affiliates President’s Meeting November 16, 2023 Richmond Section - Harambe Celebration November 16, 2023 NCNW Founders Day December 5, 2023 NCNW Affiliates Assembly December 6 - 9, 2023 National Harbor, MD NCNW Good Health WINs National Community-Based Organizations (CBO) Summit on Vaccine Access & Equity December 7, 2023 National Harbor, MD
AFFILIATE EVENTS National Coalition of 100 Black Women 2023 Biennial Conference Philadelphia, PA October 4-8, 2023
Chi Eta Phi Sorority, Inc. 2024 Middle West Regional Conference Flint, Michigan April 25-28, 2024
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. 2024 International Boule Conference Indianapolis, Indiana July 23 - 28, 2024
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. 2024 Boule Houston, Texas July 31-August 4, 2024
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. 71st Boule 2024 Dallas, Texas July 6-11, 2024
Women’s Missionary Society, AME Church 2024 Conference Columbus, Ohio August 21-28, 2024
Uncommon Height Gala December 8, 2023 National Harbor, MD
BHRPs South Carolina October 6, 2023 Mid-Atlantic October 21, 2023 Northern California November 12, 2023 Volume XI | 2023
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SISTERS New Legacy-LifeContributing Members AS OF JUNE 1, 2023
LEGACY LIFE MEMBERSHIP Ms. Susan Adams Ms. Morenike Allen Ms. Elsie L. Barrick Ms. Sharon J. Beard Ms. Ruth Bell Rev. Sarah E. Benjamin Ms. Marcia Bentley Ms. Mattie L. Blackwell Ms. Sandra Devoe Bland Ms. Janice M. Brown Mrs. Lisa Bullen Austin Ms. Diamond Butler Ms. Doris Caldwell-Reed Dr. Immacula Cann Ms. Cheryl E. Chapman Ms. Catherine Clark Ms. Grace Clark Ms. Gwyneth Inez Collins Ms. Lynda Costen Ms. Ruby N. Cotton Dr. Johni Cruse Craig Mrs. Constance Davis Ms. Helen Easterling Williams Ms. Latecia Engram Ms. Shirley M. Evbuoma Ms. Treva Fletcher Ms. Jewell N. Gaither Ms. Juanita Goudy Ms. Dorthula Green Ms. Jane Hargraves Ms. Erma L. Harmon Ms. Tracy L. Harmon Ms. Melissa Denise Hayes Dr. Kim Hickman Ms. Jeanette Hill Ms. Lillie A. Hunter Ms. Sophia H. Jones Ms. Liana King Mrs. Brenda King-Murphy Ms. Jennifer L. Legrand Ms. Celestine B. Lennox Mrs. Nancy Lohman The Honorable Tamika Mapp Dr. Joynicole Martinez Ms. Chantale Milord Ms. Deborah Morgan
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Mrs. Synovia Moss Dr. Maresa Murray Mrs. Rashell Victoria Paling Mrs. Sandra Patterson Mr. Ricardo Penn Ms. B. Sheila Beasley Reid Ms. Stanlee Richards Ms. Aletha Robinson Mrs. Barbette Rollins Ms. Kimberly Scott Ms. Georgia Shepard Ms. Alice Shumate Ms. Ayesha Simons Ms. Beverly Spruill Ms. Alisha N. Taylor Ms. Sharion Thurman-Reeves Ms. Holly Tomlin Ms. Michelle Travis-Mrowzinski Ms. Jo Van Turner Ms. Cleadel Waye Ms. Cherylann Westerfield Ms. Mary E. Wheeler Ms. Anita A. White Mrs. Effie Patricia Williams Ms. Gwendolyn Youngs
GROUP LIFE MEMBERSHIP Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. NewRock Chapter Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. Montgomery County Chapter Congressional Black Caucus Institute Women’s All Points Bulletin WAPB Naational Association of University Women
LIFE MEMBERSHIP Ms. Vanessa Adams Ms. Geraldine Agurs Ms. Mary Aiken Ms. Veronica Alexander Ms. Ariel Alford Ms. Sharron P. Allen Ms. Y’desha Alsup Ms. Nia Alvarez-Mapp Ms. Kimberly Anderson
Rev. Shavon Arline-Bradley Dr. Audrey Arthur Ms. Adjoa B. Asamoah Ms. Stephani Atkinson Ms. Gola Austin Ms. Delores Banks Mrs. Linda Banks Ms. Sarah L. Banks Ms. Deborah M. Barrett Ms. Theresa Barrett Mrs. Lera Battle-Mccullough Ms. Francenia Beech-Martin Ms. Marilyn Bell Mrs. Lydia Bell-Brooks Mrs. Rosalyn Bell-Matthews Mrs. Tuana Bennett-Vinson Mrs. Veetta Bess-Dukes Ms. Patrick Best Ms. Gwendolyn Bishop Ms. Patricia A. Blackmon Ms. Keisha Bogan Ms. Chelsea Bowens Ms. Tangela Boyd Ms. Connie Marie Bradley Ms. Gertie Bradshaw Ms. Donna L. Brazile Ms. Ellen Brewer Dr. Debra A. Bright Ms. Carolyn Brooks Ms. Iesha Brooks Dr. Dianne Brown Ms. Dorothy Brown Mrs. Felici C. Brown Ms. Linda Lee Brown Ms. Marilyn Brown Mrs. Naomi Brown Ms. Vanessa Brown Ms. Verneda Brown Mrs. Clara Brown Trimble Ms. Gwendolyn Brown-Anderson Ms. Lorraine Brown-Dwyer Dr. Wyeuca Bryd Johnson Ms. Amber Burgess-Greene Dr. Wyeuca Byrd Johnson Ms. Chrishawn Calloway Mrs. Stacy Collins Cameron Dr. Ferita Carter Mrs. Myra Carter
Ms. Carolyn Caver Ms. Shamika Chamberlin Ms. Jalene Chase Ms. Gwendolyn Chess Ms. Joyce Chilton Ms. Janel Chriss Mrs. Shirley Clark Mcclure Ms. Carolyn Clemons Mrs. Dorothy Cobb Ms. Louise Cole Mrs. Sandra Coleman Hale Ms. Tammy Nicole Cooper Ms. Susan Corbett Ms. Sonja Corbin-King Mrs. Theresa Crawley Ms. Monique D’almeida Dr. Deborah Daniels Ms. Bonita Davis Ms. Delphbro Davis Ms. Marsicia S. Davis Ms. Sheila A. Davis Dr. Yolanda Davis Dr. Deborah Deas Ms. Gwendolyn Dennis-Mack Mrs. Alfreda Denson- Butler Ms. Roberta Devine Ms. Gloria Dover Ms. Angela Dunbar-Johnson Dr. Michelle Dunlap Ms. Raechelle Ellison Ms. Candace Ervin Ms. Kellee Ewing Ms. Telia Farber Dr. Kysha L. Fedd Ms. Tamara Felton-Howard Ms. Linda Fennell Ms. Gwendolyn Fields Ms. Brigette Fitzgerald Mrs. Denise Russell Fleming Ms. Christina Flythe Dr. Latisha Forster Dr. Chantel F. Fuqua Ms. Emily A Gaddis Ms. Monica Gaines Mrs. Larhonda Gamble Ms. Julia Gant Ms. Theljewa Garrett Mrs. Wendy Gibbs Ms. Theretha Gilbert, Np Ms. Lashawn Glover Ms. Barbara Graham Ms. Briana Graham Ms. Stephanie Grant Ms. Jada Green Ms. Kirshana W. Green Ms. Charlene Greene Dr. Anita Greenlee Ms. Addie W. Griffin
Ms. Eresterine P. Guidry Ms. Delicia Guyton Ms. Tabitha Hadley Ms. Jocelyn Hair Ms. Barbara Hamilton Ms. Carolyn Harrington Mrs. Angela Harris Ms. Takisha Harris Ms. Alferdteen Harrison Mrs. Beverly A. Harrison-Griggs Ms. Charlitha Hawkins The Honorable Wendy Hazelton Ms. Dorothy Heatley Ms. Athena Hemphill Ms. Angela Henderson Ms. Glynis Hennegan Ms. Annette Henry Ms. Linda L. Hester Ms. Lori Hickman Ms. Alicia Hinson Ms. Pat Hodge Ms. Alexis Holman Mrs. Betty Hoskins Ms. Paulette Howard Ms. Debra Ann Marie Howell Ms. Beverly S. Hudson Mrs. Patricia Hunter Mrs. Teresa Hunter Mrs. Gladys Irwin Ms. Jacqueline Isaac Ms. Pamela Isabell Ms. Ambrekka Ivy Rev. Catina Jackson Ms. Chanta L. Jackson Ms. Jean Jackson Ms. Mary Jackson Ms. Quinae Jackson Ms. Tracey Jackson Mrs. Tyna Jackson Mrs. Sandra Jackson-Lett Rev. Renee Jamison Vaughan Ms. Carolyn Jenkins Ms. Adia Johnson Ms. Christini Johnson Mrs. Doris Johnson Ms. Elouise Johnson Mrs. Jamila Bess Johnson Ms. Shirley A. Johnson Ms. Crystal Jones Attorney Julie Jones Ms. Valerie Jones Ms. Sheila Jordan Ms. Mary Joseph-Hull Mrs. Lydia Joseph-Lubin Ms. Pullian Karen Ms. Nicole Kelley Ms. Kandi Kinder Ms. Windi King
Mrs. Gabrielle Andrews Lambert Mrs. Hazel Lambert Dr. Ruth Lambert Ms. Guerline Laurore Dr. Natrina L. Lawrence Ms. Meko Lawson Mrs. Gina Leggette-Fountain Mrs. Verlonda Leonard Proctor Dr. Brenda Neumon Lewis Ms. Killian A. Lewis Ms. Elease S. Lloyd Ms. Lechelle Mabry Ms. Georgia Mack Ms. Carole Evadne’ Mangum Ms. Angela Martin Ms. Trina Marie Martin Ms. Bonya Matthews Mrs. Carol McCallum-Shockness Ms. Joan McCarley Mrs. Lori R. McCoy Shuler Ms. Erica McCrae Ms. Kathleen McElroy Ms. Hattie McFarland Ms. Marcea McFarlane Ms. Carole McKinnies Dr. Rhea Miles Ms. Xanetta Miller Ms. Bianca Mitchell Ms. Elnetta Mitchell Ms. Gail Mitchell Ms. Mattie Mitchell Ms. Michelle Mitchell Ms. Geralund Morgan Smith Ms. Delores Morton Mrs. Deidre Mosely Arnold Ms. Karla Munden Dr. Rhella Murdaugh Ms. Gracie Murray Dr. Gwendolyn Murrell Ms. Jessie Mae Myers Mrs. Jamese Newsome-Williams Ms. Michelle Norflee Ms. Christa Norment Ms. Elizabeth Odle Mrs. Ellynn Osborne-Murray Ms. Tatiana Parker Ms. Akita Parmer Ms. Olivia Parsons Ms. Brenda Peake Ms. Laureen Pellegrino Ms. Bonita Perkins Ms. Ellen Peterson-Brewer Ms. Stephanie Phillips Ms. Bernadette Pinchback Mrs. Jacquelyn Pipkin Dr. Patricia Desma Pope Ms. Sandra Potts Dr. Kareen Premmer
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Ms. Mearl J. Pruitt Ms. Karen Pulliam Ms. Barbara Randall Ms. Diane Reed Ms. Antonica Reynolds Ms. Karla A. Rhodes Ms. Annette Richards-Crawford Ms. Flora Richardson Ms. Renthia Richardson Ms. Anjeanette Roberson Ms. Cathy D. Roberts Mrs. Retha Rose-Arnold Ms. Patricia Ross Ms. Sharhonda Rush Dr. Evelyn D. Russell Ms. Janice Russell Dr. Jennie L. Sanders Mrs. Mamie Sanford-Scott Ms. Vanessa Sanz Ms. Patsy Sawyer Mrs. Ellen Sayles-Lane Ms. Debra H. Schoening Ms. Linda Scurry Ms. Brenda Burton Seldon Ms. Annette Shack Ms. Deanna Shepherd Mrs. Deanna Shobe Tinsley Ms. Saundra Sidbury Ms. Mary Simmons Ms. Ruby Lee Simmons Ms. Theresa Simmons Ms. Lakeisha Simms Ms. Christina Singletary Mr. Mary Singleton Ms. Selena Singleton Ms. Lynn Sistruck Ms. Alexis Smith Ms. Ashley Smith Ms. Katie Smith Ms. Patricia Nira Smith Ms. Stacey K. Smith Ms. Carol Smith-Hassell Mrs. Eula Spivey Ms. Diane Stallings Ms. Kenberly Stephens Mrs. Rapunzel Stephens-Clements Ms. Mattie Stevens Ms. Rhonda Stewart Ms. Sandra Strapp Ms. Takara S. Strong Ms. Shavonda E. Sumter Ms. Ernestine Taylor Ms. June Taylor Ms. Pechola Taylor Ms. Sharmin Taylor Ms. Deborah Terrell Ms. Allie Robinson Terry Ms. Brianna A. Thornton
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Ms. Brittany A. Thornton Ms. Ieesha Turnage Ms. Shelease Valentine Mrs. Janet Vernon Dr. Rico Wagner Ms. Simone-Monet Wahls Ms. Delores Walker Ms. Tasha Wallace Ms. Tuesday Wallington Grimes Ms. Denise F. Ware Ms. Delia Ware-Tibbs Mrs. Denisha Warfield-Dawson Ms. Judith Warren Ms. Evetta Washington Ms. Tamara Washington-Bell Ms. Deborah Waters Ms. Monica Waters Ms. Ashley Watson Ms. Icyphine Welcher Dr. Kim West Ms. Lashanda Weston Ms. Atavia White Ms. Jacqueline D. White Ms. Paula White Ms. Ruth White Mrs. Valerie Whitney-Lowery Ms. Rhudine Wilkes Mrs. Katrina Braden Wilkins Ms. Beverly Williams Ms. Marjorie Williams Ms. Mayola Williams Ms. Michelle Williams Ms. Nikki Williams Ms. Patricia Williams Dr. Tonjua Williams Ms. Veronica Williams Ms. Wanda D. Williams Mrs. Natalie Williams-Coggins Dr. Janet Willis Ms. Carolyn Wilson Ms. Nicole Wilson Ms. Andrea Windley-Scott Ms. Lela Wingard Hughes Ms. Debra Anne Winston Ms. Chante N. Woods Ms. Gladys Woods Ms. Jacqueline Woods Mrs. Demecia Wooten-Irizarry Ms. Quintella Wright Ms. Teresa Wright Ms. Frankie Young Ms. Keisha Zeigler
CONTRIBUTING MEMBERSHIPS (INCLUDES DONATION)
LEADERSHIP CIRCLE
(ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP PLUS $100 DONATION) Mrs. Shekera Algarin Mrs. Kimberly Blackwell Ms. June Bryant Ms. Deidra Collins Mrs. Courtney Coulter Ms. Marquita Davis Dr. Mary E. Dilworth Ms. Bonita R. Durand Ph.D Rev. Sharon Finney Ms. Tracy Fleming Dr. Tanya Glenn-Butler Ms. Joy Guarneri Dr. Connie Hampton Ms. Kemya Hankerson Dr. Claudine Head Ms. Holli Holliday Dr. R. Jamille Jackson Ms. Victoria Romeo Jackson Ms. Adrienne Johnson Ms. Zakiya Johnson Lord Mrs. Tammy Jones Ms. Theresa Jones Mrs. Tamika Kinsey-Williams Dr. Luella Lewis Mrs. Yolanda Lewis Ms. Dolly Laura Marshall Mrs. Valerie Mattison Brown Ms. Victoria Janae McDowell Ms. Tina Nixon Mrs. Cindy O’Pharrow Rev. Tatum Osbourne Ms. Lenora Paige Ms. Jameece Pickney The Honorable Toni Rose Ms. Simone Safford Ms. Treesa Salter Dr. Mary Starks Mrs. Clarissa Stroud-Kemp Ms. Katrina Thomas-Markland Ms. Angela Tilghman Ms. Marilyn Tuitt Mrs. Joyce Walker Ms. Selma Ward Dr. Cheryl Watson-Harris
ADVOCATE
(ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP PLUS $50 DONATION) Ms. Jae Agu Ms. Amanda Ali Ms. Morenike Allen
Mrs. Natasha Allen Ms. Demetrice Askew Dr. Sherry Austin Dr. Kyeanna Bailey Ms. Jeanice Baker Ms. Lorrie Bethel Dr. Susan Black Ms. Metina Booze Ms. Nancy Boyd Mrs. Cheryl Brockington Ms. Carol Brooks Ms. Carla D. Brown Ms. Tamekia Brown Ms. Johnnie Bryant-Johnson Ms. Glenda Bubb Ms. Germaine Buchanan Mrs. Monica Burgess Ms. Michelle Burke The Honorable Rhonda Burnough Ms. Audrey Carmack Mrs. Angela Carter Dr. Nicole Carter Ms. Jeanetta Churchill Ms. Adria Clark Ms. Fiona Clarke Ms. Rosalind Clarke Ms. Kendra Antionette Clavon Ms. Perriyana Clay Ms. Catherine Clemons Ms. Alexis Cochran Ms. Yasheema Cook Ms. Gina Marie Cousin Ms. Pearlie Crain Ms. Sannah Crawford Ms. Kalyn Cromartie Mrs. Angela Cross Ms. Cheryl Curry Mrs. Lorraine Curtis Ms. Cheryl Davis Dr. Courtney Davis Mrs. LoToya Davis Ms. Elletta Denson Ms. Amira Dewitt Ms. Deandra Duncan Mrs. Lashyra Escobosa Dr. Regina Favors Ms. Charneice Fox Mrs. Lucille Frierson Sabb Ms. Candi Gardiner Ms. Courtney Garrison Ms. Michelle Gay Ms. Shanea Georges Ms. Maya Gilmore Mrs. Phyllis Godley Ms. Bethany Graham Ms. Coreen Grooms Ms. Leslee Grubbs
Mrs. Edwina Gwynn Mrs. Renessta Haigler Rev. Stephanie Handy Ms. Michelle Harris Rev. Marki Joy Harvin Mrs. Ronita Hemingway Mrs. Keisha Henderson Owens Mrs. Toni Hendrix Ms. Shanieka Hill Ms. Adaine Hillman Mrs. Taniqua Howard Mrs. Sharon Jackson Dr. Bonita Jackson-Vergara Ms. Demetrice Jennings Ms. Janice F. Jennings Ms. Annabelle Johnson Mrs. Minina Johnson Ms. Carol Jones Ms. Karen Jones Ms. Lavita Jones Ms. Rozella Jones Ms. Toy Jones Ms. Valerie Jones Ms. Tracy Jordan Ms. Lecreshia Joshway Ms. Jean Kennedy Ms. Mapo Kinnord Ms. Kelli Knight Mrs. Terrika Knox Mrs. Adrienne La Faye Mrs. Sheryl Leverett Ms. Alicia Linthicum Mrs. Iris Lundy Mrs. Yolanda Lupton Ms. Tiffanee Lymore The Honorable Theressia Lyons Dr. Doris Burroughs Mallory Bey Ms. Nikki Manus Ms. Deborah Martin Owens Mrs. Dessie Mathews Ms. Timfany Mayfield Mrs. Larae McCarty Ms. Vernelia McKnight Mrs. Regina Meacham-Devero Mrs. Toni Meyerkord Mrs. Gwendolyn Mike Ms. Joyce Mitchell Ms. Jamila Moore Mrs. Debra Murph Ms. Shazaan Napoleon Rev. Earline Nelson Ms. Lori Nelson Ms. Jannifer Nevilles Ms. Jean Newkirk Dr. Margaret Norris Ms. Dale Nunnery Ms. Angelica Oliver
Ms. Edith Perry Ms. Nickesha Pitter Ms. Gersha Porter Mrs. Pamela Pratt Ms. Tonya Prior Watson Rev. Shemaj Ragin Mr. Paul Randolph Ms. Sonya Randolph Mrs. Teneka Ray Ms. Rian Reed Ms. Geraldine B. Richardson Ms. Deborah Robinson Ms. Fatima Robinson Ms. Melissa Rolan Ms. Nyjat Rose-Akins Ms. Yolanda Saltmarshall Rev. Doreleena Sammons Hackett Mrs. Peggy Shelton Dr. Willie J Simmons-Canty Ms. Dara Skinner Mrs. Danyell Smith Ms. Jacqueline Smith Ms. Brandie Stallings Mrs. Amanda Stewart Ms. Karen Stewart-Ross Ms. Ronale Taylor Mrs. Lydia Thacker Ms. Rhonda Thomas Ms. Stacey Thomas Ms. Tonya Thomas Ms. Nicole Turner Mrs. LauraAnn Vaughn Ms. Kimberly Veiga Ms. Nalita Viney Ms. Barbara Walker Ms. Jeanette Walker Dr. Brenda Wallace Ms. Anissa Washington Ms. Nykia Washington Ms. Cynthia Waters Ms. Allisha Watts Mrs. Tamera Wells-Lee Mrs. Billie Whitfield-Mcgill Mrs. Keisha Wilkins Ms. Tamidra Wilkins Mrs. Bridgitt Williams Ms. Maria Willis
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LES GEMMES, INCORPORATED
Affiliate SPOTLIGHT
UPWARD, ONWARD, UNITED WE STAND OUR HISTORY Les Gemmes, Incorporated (French; means “the Jewels”, and pronounced “lay gem”), was founded in September 1955 in Norfolk, Virginia by four young ladies who had grown up as friends from childhood. Attending HBCUs in North Carolina and Virginia, Melvine Blakeley, Lena Siler, Queenie Branch, and Inez Mercer-Brown were educators as well as visionaries. However, it was in the interest of socializing and monetary saving that they envisioned a club that would ultimately affect positive change, encourage high scholastic achievement, and foster a greater sense of unity among its members.
Constance T. Davis National President, Les Gemmes, Incorporated
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The outreach to women in other cities in Virginia and subsequently in other states began the growth and expansion of the organization. A debt of gratitude is due to our Organization’s Incorporators. In an effort to ensure Les Gemmes’ permanence, the organization was incorporated in April 1968 in the state of Virginia with Jean Alexander of Norfolk as the first president.
OUR MISSION Les Gemmes, Incorporated is organized exclusively for charitable, educational, civic, and cultural purposes; and is committed to promoting positive influences within local communities. Our 2022-2024 national program is structured around six Dream Initiatives that are ”Fulfilling Dreams that Revive and Empower Our Communities”. The Dream Initiatives target Domestic Violence, Youth Mentoring and Tutoring, Healthy Lifestyles, Support for Seniors, Literary Arts, and Economic Assistance. Visit us online at lesgemmes1955.org. Here’s a closer look at our Youth Mentoring and Tutoring Program:
Dream: Improve Academic, Social, and Economic Prospects for Youth Challenge: 8 The impact of the pandemic on student learning is significant and has widened the achievement gap. 8 Students are averaging five months behind in mathematics and four months behind in reading. 8 Historically disadvantaged students were hit the hardest. 8 Nine million youth have fallen off track and have no adult to turn to for advice and guidance.
Our Goal: Provide youth with mentors and tutors who will help them deal with scholastic and day-to-day challenges.
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New Additions to the Staff EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP TEAM
Janice L. Mathis
Bernadine Stallings
Janice L. Mathis is the General Counsel for NCNW. In a previous role, she served as Executive Director of the civil rights organization. During her tenure as ED, she was responsible for implementing and expanding NCNW’s “Lead, Advocate and Empower” mission by activating its “Four for the Future” program, which focuses on education, health, entrepreneurship and values.
Bernadine Stallings comes to NCNW with extensive background in the communications field. She currently serves as the Vice President of Public Affairs. Prior to joining the NCNW team, Bernadine was the Deputy Communications Director for former House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn (SC-6) where she assisted in overseeing the Whip’s strategic communications operation and managed all communications activities, virtual outreach, and media relations for both the South Carolina and Washington, D.C. offices.
Prior to joining NCNW, Janice was Vice President for Legal Affairs for Rev. Jesse L. Jackson’s Rainbow PUSH Coalition. She is a former member of both the Georgia Power Company Diversity Advisory Council and the Coca-Cola Supplier Diversity Council. Janice and her sister Davida Mathis host “Sisters in Law” on News and Talk 1380 WAOK, a legal advice program, and they blog at sistersinlaw.blogspot.com. Janice formerly served on Delta Sigma Theta’s Sorority Inc.’s National Social Action Commission and was a member of the Rules Committee of the Democratic National Committee. She is on the national board of the League of Women Voters of the U.S. A native of Greenville, SC, Janice earned Bachelors of Arts degrees in both economics and public policy studies at Duke University. Janice also studied British Politics and History at Oxford University in England and earned a Juris Doctorate from University of Georgia School of Law.
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Ahead of her tenure in the House Leadership office, Bernadine served as the Communications Director for Congresswoman Nikema Williams (GA-5) and former Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge (OH-11). In both offices, she was responsible for developing and implementing communications strategies, coordinating press events, and preparing the Congresswomen for speaking engagements. In 2022, she was recognized as a Leader in Communications by the Black Women’s Congressional Alliance. Before her arrival on Capitol Hill, Bernadine served as Publications and Communications Specialist for Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., where she was also the editor for the Delta Journal. A native of Detroit, Bernadine earned a bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Michigan, and a master’s degree in Communications from Wayne State University. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP TEAM
Portia Reddick White
Shayna Banfield
Portia Reddick White, J.D. has over 20 years of experience in advocacy and policy, where she has held various positions that support her current role as Lead Policy Strategist for the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW). Prior to supporting NCNW in a consultant role, Mrs. White was the Vice President of Policy and Legislative Affairs at the Washington Bureau of the NAACP, and has worked with nonprofits such as AARP, National Education Association, Democratic National Committee, Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids and Transport Workers Union of America, AFLCIO, supplemented by her governmental role as senior advisor to the late former U.S. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, Jr from Nevada.
Shayna Banfield, MS, CHES, is the Vice President of Programs at The National Council of Negro Women and brings 15 years of experience in public health and non- profit management. Her work has focused on community health education, health policy, researching social determinants of health and advocating for equitable healthcare. Shayna has been the principal investigator and program administrator for a number of funded projects in Maryland, specifically in HIV/AIDS testing, cancer prevention programs and maternal mortality review.
Mrs. White earned her juris doctorate from the University of Baltimore, a Master of Education Administration and Bachelor of Arts from Oral Roberts University. Portia has enjoyed various awards and recognitions including being named National Black Caucus of State Legislators 2009 Labor Leader of the Year. The Huntsville, Ala. Native lives by the motto – “I walk with those that need support, listen with an open and honest heart and speak with passion for those that need a voice.”
Shayna earned her bachelor’s degree in biology from Morgan State University and a master’s degree in Community Health Education from Towson University. As a college student at Morgan State University, Shayna became a member of NCNW MSU section. This is where her love for serving and educating the community blossomed and has been the focus of her career path ever since.
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ADMINISTRATION
Parys A. Grigsby
Kiya McDonald
Parys A. Grigsby, an Executive Assistant at National Council of Negro Women, is a longtime executive support professional dedicated to helping small teams do big work. As a type B creative in a type A career field, she specializes in creating human-centric, efficient processes grounded in clarity while alleviating urgency in the workplace. She prides herself on working with team members across all organizational levels with respect, curiosity, and joy.
Kiya McDonald had 15 years of high-level support in education before joining the staff at the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW). For high school administrators, she was responsible for the organization, coordination, administration, and management of schools’ activities and programs, while also becoming an advocate for students who needed guidance. At NCNW, Ms. McDonald holds the position of Executive Assistant to the Chief Operations Officer, where she is responsible for the coordination of scheduling and calendar management, as well as creating a safe environment, monitoring budget development, and ensuring the flow of information to senior staff.
Ms. Grigsby is a proud graduate of the University of Georgia’s Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communications. (Go Dawgs!). When she’s not nerding out about continual process improvement and world news, you can find her hanging out with her pup, Cheddar Baé, driving her classic Mustang, Huny Baby, or wandering around Atlanta discovering the many joys of Black womanhood.
Rebekah S. Watson
Maintaining a busy schedule, Ms. McDonald is a mom of three to 10-year-old Isaiah and 8-year-old twins, Cameron and Lauryn, who keep her on her toes.
Rebekah S. Watson has always had a passion for helping others and for writing. In pursuit of her passions Rebekah graduated with honors with a bachelor’s degree in media and communications from the University of the West Indies, and in 2019, she graduated with a master’s in law from the University of Miami, where she was first introduced to the world of telecommunications law in the United States. In August 2022, Ms. Watson joined NCNW as a Technology and Communications Fellow, where she oversees initiatives related to the advancement of technology and communications strategies that will close the digital divide for Black and Brown women and their communities. Ms. Watson, a proud immigrant hailing from Jamaica, is a legal partner in the firm of Watson Mendes and Company in her home country and hopes that her time at NCNW will inspire Black children across the diaspora to keep fighting to shape a more equitable and connected world.
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COMMUNICATIONS/PUBLIC AFFAIRS
Whitney Guilford
ensuring that all students received a fair and equitable education. Her work at NCNW as Communications Media Manager is informed by her experience in education and advocacy.
Whitney Guilford is a life-long advocate for equity and social justice. A native of Savannah, Ga., she began her career working at various television stations in Atlanta before gravitating towards education. She spent years working in urban schools, dedicating her time to
Whitney graduated from Howard University with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and Culture. She then obtained a Master of Public Policy from George Mason University in 2022, specializing in social and education policy. In her spare time, she enjoys tutoring students, pursuing her musical passions, and spending time with her family.
DEVELOPMENT
Dara K. Tilghman relocating to the greater Washington, D.C. area in 2020, Mrs. Tilghman ran her own educational agency dedicated to assisting Black and Brown families with navigating educational options for their students, as well as guiding K-12 private schools in diversity, equity, and inclusion (D.E.I.) efforts and organizing HBCU fairs for K-12 students in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Dara K. Tilghman joined NCNW July 2022 as the Fundraising Assistant and has since moved into the role of Development Manager. A Maryland native, she comes to NCNW with a background in nonprofit work, volunteering, and entrepreneurship mainly in Texas. Before
Mrs. Tilghman attended George Washington University where she studied marketing at the School of Business Administration. She lives in the District of Columbia with her husband and two children and hopes to continue to do great things at NCNW. Her favorite quote is, “I want everyone Black to win!” – Issa Rae.
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MEMBERSHIP
Ashley Meads
Ashley Meads embarked on their unique college journey at 14 in San Antonio, Texas, which fueled their commitment to activism and special education. They earned a Bachelor’s in Political Science from Howard University, delving into politics and societal structures. Ashley’s time at Howard reinforced their dedication to community impact.
Now pursuing a Master’s in Social Work, Ashley champions personal and collective growth through community engagement. Their academic pursuits are driven by a genuine desire to empower others and enact positive change. Beyond academia, Ashley finds solace in creative expressions like sketching and sewing, while advocating for sustainability. Ashley’s journey reflects an unwavering quest for knowledge, a genuine passion for uplifting communities, and a heartfelt dedication to early education.
Danielle Tyson discretion, superb written and oral communication, consistent problem-solving, and exceptional critical thinking skills; both independently and in team environments.
Danielle Tyson is a seasoned and motivated administrator with over twenty (20) years’ experience in corporate and non-profit sectors with Human Resources prominence. Using professional decorum, her knowledge comprises: dependable administrative support, courteous and efficient customer service, chief confidentiality and
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Employing her professional talents in the non-profit sector, Danielle volunteers her time to churches and organizations with joy and dedication. She has volunteered at National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) membership for several years. Danielle also operates as the Administrator of Bethel Outreach Worship Ministries since 2008 and appreciates the opportunity to share her abilities in a Christian setting. Her diverse experience in membership management, data entry administration, benefits coordination, and human resources management makes her a poised, invaluable asset to the NCNW staff.
PROGRAMS
Afia Williams
Afia Williams, a dedicated Research and Evaluation Specialist with hands-on experience in communitybased program implementation. Afia attended Baylor University for undergraduate and graduate
school completing her Master of Public Health in May 2022. Afia is passionate about improving public health outcomes and creating positive change within communities. Her commitment to evidencebased research and evaluation methods has contributed to the success of numerous programs aimed at enhancing the well-being of individuals and communities. Afia’s work is driven by a deep sense of purpose, making her an invaluable asset in the field of public health.
Mr. Jamie Honored
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CNW’s longest facility employee was honored recently when Dr. Daley surprised him with a specially designed award. As staff watched, the devoted “Mr. Jamie” broke down in tears. Mr. Jamie, a native of El Salvador, has been with NCNW for almost a quarter century. He brings a warm personality every day as he goes quietly and methodically about taking care of the building. Everybody likes Mr. Jamie.
Dr. Height, in her verbal “will,” said that Mr. Jamie was never to leave NCNW. When a new facility company took over, special arrangements were made to transfer Mr. Jamie to the new firm. He loves NCNW and displays it in his work and the way he relates to staff, officers, and all who enter the building. He gives back to the community, also, as he uses his soccer skills to coach youth in the city.
Hats off to
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NCNW Headquarters Staff A D M I NI ST RAT I ON Shavon Arline-Bradley President and Chief Executive Officer Krystal Ramseur Ali Chief Operations Officer Janice Mathis, Esq. General Counsel
COMMUNIC ATIONS/ PUBLIC A FFA IRS Bernadine Stallings Vice President of Public Affairs Whitney Guilford Communications Media Manager Sandra Green Graphics Designer and Production Specialist
Parys A. Grigsby Executive Assistant to the President and CEO
DEVELOPMENT
Kiya McDonald Executive Assistant to the COO
Dara K. Tilghman Development Manager
Michelle Holder Office Manager/Volunteer Coordinator
MEMBERSHIP
Tarsha Small Financial Specialist Jade Walker Data Evaluation Specialist Rebekah Watson, Esq. Technology and Telecommunications Fellow
David Glenn, Jr. Director of Membership Danielle Tyson Membership Coordinator Ashley Meads Membership Assistant
POLICY A ND A DVOC ACY Portia Reddick White Lead Policy and Advocacy Strategist
PROGRA MS Shayna Banfield Vice President of Programs Afia Williams Research and Evaluation Specialist 54
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Alzheimer’s Association was a proud gold sponsor of
Alzheimer's Association is a proud gold sponsor of NCNW's 60th NCNW’s 60th National Convention. National Convention. 1st - December We continue to December support NCNW’s programs 4th and outreach efforts. About the Alzheimer's Association: The Alzheimer's Association leads the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. We believe that engaging diverse perspectives is critical to achieving health equity — meaning that all communities have a fair and just opportunity for early diagnosis and access to risk reduction and quality care. To learn more, visit alz.org. For support, Call us. We are available around the clock, 365 days a year at 800.272.3900.
In Memoriam Dr. Mildred Bonnie Hines, NCNW Legacy Life Member was the first female bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church. Hines, the 98th bishop of the AME Zion Church, died on May 23, 2022. She was the sole female bishop of the historically Black denomination that dates to 1796. She pastored Los Angeles First AME Zion Church before being elected as the first female bishop of the AME Zion Church in 2008. In 2013, she became the first woman to lead the board of bishops. Hines served as the presiding prelate of a West African district and later was assigned to the U.S. district that includes churches in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Texas, and West Tennessee. Most recently, she has overseen churches in South Carolina and Georgia. She was also the chairperson of the board of trustees of Clinton College in Rock Hill, South Carolina.
Sylvia Betty Jenkins Life Member, Queens County Section, NY
Sara E. Dennis, NCNW Legacy Life Member, President’s Circle Member, New York State BHRP Program Chair (the Program’s Energizer Bunny), BHRP State Honoree, and Immediate Past President, Manhattan Section, NY.
Jennette Rembert Member, Syracuse Section, NY
Lula Garland Life Member, Syracuse Section, NY
Alberta Coker Member, Syracuse Section, NY
Karen Laurete Nurse Life Member, Co-op City Section, NY
Maxine McDonald Life Member, Syracuse Section, NY
Angela Kitti Kates Member, Metropolitan Women’s Network Section, NY
Kathryn S. Hunt Legacy Life Member, Queens County Section, NY
Elizabeth “Liz” Jones Life Member, Durham Section, NC
Lee Burdia Epps-Thomas Member, Syracuse Section, NY
Myrtle Bell Life Member, Greater Austin Section, TX
Glenys Finigan-Pantaleon Legacy Life Member, Brooklyn Section, NY
Lisa Simmons Life Member, District of Columbia Section #2, DC
Robert A. Booze Life Member, Co-op City Section, NY
Mazie Lewis Life Member, Capital Area Section/ Raleigh, NC
AS OF JUNE 1, 2023
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THE POWER OF SISTERHOOD TAKES CENTER STAGE. Toyota Motor North America celebrates 88 years of the National Council of Negro Women’s unwavering dedication to empowering African-descent women and their communities. We are honored to sponsor such an incredible organization that has changed countless lives by breaking down barriers and helping women reach their goals.
©2023 Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.