Sept./Oct. 2024
Volume 5 Issue 9
Johnson C. Smith University
1st
HBCU Esports & Gaming Trifecta
Let Your Actions Offer Hope To Others
A Letter From The Editor
You never know who is watching. In everything that we do in life, regardless of whether an audience is present or not, we must know that someone is always watching. While some may be in the form of support or encouragement, others may show up just to learn. I would describe myself as a learner.
Throughout my life, the answers and solutions I’ve needed to survive haven’t always come from those who I would expect them to. Often times I didn’t have what a young and impressionable male needed to grow and maneuver, and because of this, I failed and made many mistakes. Yet, I thank God for grace and for placing help along my way, to ensure that what He has planned and purposed shall be done.
I recently celebrated a birthday. It was cool. I didn’t make a lot of noise, but instead, I enjoyed the blessing of being alive. It was also around this time that the Olympic games were taking place in Paris. As Simeon Biles captivated the world with yet another remarkable performance, my interest was consumed by what American Runner Sha’Carri Richardson accomplished. As many may recall, a few years ago, Sha’Carri made headlines for her mistakes off the track. As I watched the Olympic games, I celebrated her victory, but I also celebrated her determination and her perseverance. Sha’Carri has proven to her naysayers and critics that she can block out distractions and lock in what is most important.
Watching Sha’Carri fueled my fire in some ways. It also reminded me to appreciate the opportunities that God gives us to correct a mistake. As I always say, “no one is perfect, except God’ and life throws a few curve balls here and there, we must stand firm and erect at the plate, always ready to swing for the fences. The greatest opportunity to exhibit our strength happens on our way back up.
I want to encourage everyone to keep moving and believing that our greatest days are still yet to happen. God has given all of His children purpose, and has also provided provisions to see them occur. As we continue along our journey’s, let’s do it with a heart of faith and assurance, because you never know who is watching. We must allow our actions offer hope to others.
Terry L. Watson
Johnson C. Smith University
Dr. BerNadette Lawson-Williams
Charlotte, NC
Health System Expands
Atrium Health
Charlotte, NC
Black Alumni Chapter Program
UNC-Charlotte
Charlotte, NC
Community Awards Come To Charlotte
Huami Magazine Community Awards
Charlotte, NC
Building Relationships
Black Massage Therapist Conference
Lanisha Hunter has been named one of NC’s Top 100 Nurses. Learn more about who she is. Greensboro, NC
He is Huami Magazine’s Cutest Baby. Introducing one cute kid. His name is Jaylen Hardy.
Harvey Gantt Center
Bertha Maxwell-Roddey
Heal Charlotte Greg Jackson
Deborah Callaway
Chisholm
The Gantt Center Mourns the Loss of Co-Founder Dr. Bertha Maxwell-Roddey
It is with great sadness that the Gantt announces the passing of Dr. Bertha Maxwell-Roddey on March 20, 2024. She was 93.
Dr. Roddey was a trailblazer early in her education career. Born in 1930 in Seneca, South Carolina, she graduated from Oconee County Training School and received a Bachelor of Arts from Johnson C. Smith University, a Master of Education from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, and a doctorate from Union Graduate School in Cincinnati, Ohio.
She worked in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School system as a teacher and principal and was one of Charlotte’s first Black women to serve as an administrator in a predominately white school. During the late 1960s and early 1970s, post-civil rights movement, college students held sit-ins on campuses, demanding a forum to acknowledge the rich history and contributions of Black people in this country. Campus leaders heeded the rallying cry of the students and developed a process to structure what became the Black Studies Center, now the Africana Studies Department. As an associate professor at UNC Charlotte, Dr. Roddey (née Maxwell) served as the Center’s founding director and she also emphasized the importance of students giving back to the community. She also founded and served as the first chair of the National Council for Black Studies, which helped institutionalize the Black Studies field and continues to be its premier professional organization.
Along with UNC Charlotte assistant professor, Mary Harper, she cofounded the Afro-American Cultural and Service Center, now the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture. Their brilliant idea, vision, and diligent work live on as the Gantt celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2024.
Information obtained from The Harvey Gantt Center
She has served on more than 50 boards and commissions, co-founded the Theodore and Bertha M. Roddey Foundation, started the first Head Start program in Charlotte, and received numerous awards for her dedication. Some of her awards include the Thurgood Marshall Award of Education, Order of the Long Leaf Pine, Elizabeth Catlett-Delta Legacy “Women Making a Difference,” and Eagle Fly Free Award from the Institute for the Advancement of Multicultural & Minority Medicine.
Dr. Roddey was a member of the Gamma Lambda Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and served as Charlotte Alumnae Chapter President, National First Vice-President, and the 20th National President. She also worked with Habitat for Humanity, leading the process of building more than 350 houses in the United States, the Caribbean, and Africa.
Her legacy lives on!
Atrium Health Opens New Orthopedic Urgent Care
Location in Greater Charlotte
Information obtained from Press Release
Atrium Health is opening its first orthopedic urgent care location in the greater Charlotte market, offering walk-in care seven days a week. This new location, housed within the existing Atrium Health Musculoskeletal Institute clinic located at 3030 Randolph Road, will provide quick and convenient care for orthopedic and sports injuries.
The new orthopedic urgent care aims to enhance patients’ access to specialized care for bone, joint and muscle injuries. The facility is designed to address a wide range of urgent orthopedic needs, providing same-day diagnosis and care for fractures, sprains, strains, sports injuries and many other injuries. With a team of experienced orthopedic specialists, the clinic ensures patients receive the highest standard of care close to home.
“We’ve made a promise to deliver convenient and unparalleled healing for the communities we serve,” said Dr. Claude “T” Moorman, president of Atrium Health Musculoskeletal Institute. “This orthopedic urgent care is a testament to our ongoing investment to fulfill the evolving needs of our patients and ensure they are receiving the highest quality care possible.”
The orthopedic urgent care location is open every day, including extended hours Monday through Friday from 5 to 9 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. to better serve patients. Walk-ins are welcome and no appointment is needed. It will be staffed by orthopedic specialists and will have the ability to perform x-rays and casting on-site.
Atrium Health Musculoskeletal Institute is a leader in the field of orthopedic and sports medicine care, providing comprehensive, patient-centered care for a wide range of conditions. The institute brings together experts in orthopedics, sports medicine, rheumatology, and physical therapy and rehabilitation to provide patients with the most advanced treatments and specialized care. With a focus on research and innovation, the Musculoskeletal Institute is dedicated to improving the lives of patients and advancing the field of musculoskeletal care. For more information about Atrium Health Orthopedic Urgent Care, please visit our website or call 704-863-HURT (4878.)
Johnson C. Smith University
“The Rise of HBCU Esports”
By Dr. Marrissa R. Dick
Photos Provided by Todd Youngblood
In today’s world, video games are dominating the scene and have become part of the culture and community known as esports. Esports stands for electronic sports, which translates to competitive video gaming. Those who participate in this culture travel the world to join in gaming tournaments that enable them to win cash prizes and recognition. Today, gaming has excelled to the heights of tournaments, leagues, and matches, just like conventional sports. Now, students can learn about the theoretical framework that recognizes the value of the esports and gaming industry.
One person who helps students achieve their passion for video gaming is Dr. BerNadette Lawson-Williams, founder and coordinator of Johnson C. Smith’s Sport Management Esports and Gaming Trifecta and Professor of Sport Management Program. She has worked at JCSU professionally for more than 20 years and is a tenured full professor and a gamer. Thankfully, she is not a novice at implementing, coordinating, and designing curricula.
While an Assistant Professor at South Carolina State University (SCSU), she developed academic programs in Sports Communication and Physical Activity Management, both the first of their kind in the State of South Carolina. Forging ahead, she continues to be a pioneer and trailblazer in academia. Dr. Lawson-Williams is the Founder and Coordinator of the first HBCU Esports and Gaming Trifecta, which consists of the first esports and gaming academic program of any kind to be offered at a Historically Black College and University (HBCU), the first HBCU Esports Lab, and a highly-competitive Esports Club.
Dr. Lawson-Williams states, “Esports involve competitive video gaming among solo and multiple players, much like tennis, basketball, or football. The term esports was coined in 1999. Prior to that, it was simply known as video gaming. I was a gamer girl in the 80s, so I understand gamers’ attraction to video games. Most people aren’t aware that the United States of America has been competing in video games for fifty-two years. The first esports tournament was held at Stanford University in 1972, and it is widely documented that video games were being developed at MIT in the 1960s. However, what’s most transformative is that out of the 100+ HBCUs,
Johnson C. Smith University became the first HBCU to recognize the impact that the esports and gaming ecosystem could have on collegiate scholars when we launched the first Esports and Gaming Trifecta at an HBCU. At the time, there were over 200 Predominately White Institutions (PWIs) that were offering an esports and gaming presence on their campuses and zero HBCUs. There are now over 67 HBCUs offering esports and gaming programming, which is truly exceptional, particularly because 67 has a special meaning at JCSU. Our institution was founded in 1867. This makes this finding twice as special to us, as we view it as an affirmational nod to our dynamic impact in the HBCU Esports and Gaming landscape. We are not only widely recognized as the blueprint, but also the black-print of HBCU Esports. As the only HBCU in Charlotte, NC, we provide exceptional academic programming that is fueled by innovation, practicality, and experiential learning. We are indeed experiencing a New Era of Excellence at JCSU!”
The initial planning phase of the Esports and Gaming Trifecta began in 2019, and the Esports and Gaming Management program was officially launched at JCSU in January 2020. Dr. Lawson-Williams says, “It was a campus-wide process. We were fortunate to have the unwavering support of our university president, provost, deans, chairs, faculty, staff, and students to implement this program. Having this type of support is monumental because it means that our entire JCSU campus community not only recognizes the program’s value but also embraces and appreciates it. As academicians, we continually value ingenuity and are adamant about gaining exposure to innovative concepts that will recruit, retain, and graduate our scholars, many of whom are accustomed to more traditional academic offerings, such as biology, mathematics, and psychology. These are some of the most prevalent academic offerings at the majority of colleges and universities, so when we proposed esports and gaming as a viable option, naturally, many of my colleagues were skeptical. When I first introduced the concept of developing this program in March 2019, I had to first introduce and explain the importance and benefit of esports through a certain lens that I knew would entice my fellow academicians to understand its value, specifically how the program would provide an interdisciplinary approach that would foster our scholars’ acquisition of the soft and technical skills that are commonly associated with esports and gaming. For instance, most gamers utilize acute soft skills such as situational awareness, critical thinking, and problem-solving during their engagement in video game play and technical skills such as
programming, game development, technology, etc. In fact, many of our program’s scholars have selected academic fields of study in highly technical areas such as computer science, computer engineering, and cybersecurity. Therefore, a minor in Esports and Gaming Management is cohesive with their interests in software development and game development. The esports and gaming discipline has galvanized all of the fields of study offered on our campus since every major program that we offer connects with esports and gaming, whether sport management, business, criminology, psychology, biology, public health, or communication arts. For instance, the psychological, wellness, mathematical, and business aspects of video gaming can be studied through our Esports and Gaming Management minor combined with our majors in Psychology, Public Health, Mathematics, and Business. We are using esports and gaming as a platform to showcase our scholars’ talents and to demonstrate how impactful experiential learning can be when it is utilized both inside and outside of the classroom. Our Esports Lab is the place where theoretical and experiential learning meet face-to-face. At Johnson C. Smith University, we believe that impactful learning will not only change the lives of our scholars and their families but will also have a long-lasting impact on the communities that we serve and beyond. No matter where our Golden Bull scholars may go throughout the world during their matriculation or upon their graduation from JCSU, they will always hold high, the Gold and Blue!”
Dr. Lawson-Williams also shares that, “The coursework for esports and gaming is focused on the business side of the industry, including esports marketing, business trends, esports technology, and project management. The curriculum is also versatile as it aims to maintain alignment with the ever-changing trends of the esports and gaming industry. There are conversations underway regarding future course offerings that will encompass esports broadcasting, diversity in esports, and artificial intelligence.” She is humble in recognizing that she did not achieve this monumental accomplishment without the help of her esteemed colleague and co-founder, Professor John Cash, who instructed the first esports and gaming special topic course in January 2020, which solidified his official status as the first HBCU Esports and Gaming Professor. That course helped to position the curriculum as a viable program on the campus of JCSU and among all HBCUs. It also was a testament to students’ interest in learning more about the business of the esports and gaming ecosystem.
At JCSU, we aim to connect our students with corporations that can bring their industry insight to our campus. This enables our students to collaborate with industry leaders who will ensure that they are ascertaining the knowledge and experiences they need to secure highly competitive employment opportunities.”
Dr. Lawson-Williams’s role at JCSU is diversified. Not only is she the founder and coordinator of the Esports and Gaming Trifecta program, but she is also the coordinator of its online Sport Management Program, which is also the first of its kind at an HBCU. With her knowledge and unwavering passion, she plans to continue shifting the paradigm and heightening its trajectory by ensuring that all students at JCSU are receiving innovative educational opportunities and experiences that will duly prepare them for success in their desired career pathways.
Dr. Lawson-Williams shares that her vision for the program is continuous growth. In regard to student enrollment as it relates to the Trifecta’s engagement with its campus community and external community, she adds, “We’ve already partnered with several mega esports and gaming corporations, many of which publish the video games that our students play, including, but not limited to Activision-Blizzard, Riot Games, and Epic Games. In fact, the former General Manager and SVP of Call of Duty, which is one of the world’s biggest-selling video games and published by ActivisionBlizzard, was an invited guest on our campus last year. Johanna Faries, who currently serves as the President of Blizzard Entertainment, one of the most prominent esports and gaming companies, and I co-hosted a session for JCSU students, faculty, staff, as well as community members. We also hosted over 400 middle, high school, and college students on our campus for the historic HBCU Esports and Gaming Week event over two days. At JCSU, we aim to connect our students with corporations that can bring their industry insight to our campus. This enables our students to collaborate with industry leaders who will ensure that they are ascertaining the knowledge and experiences they need to secure highly competitive employment opportunities.”
Dr. Lawson-Williams added, “Recently, six of our esports athletes attended and competed in the world’s largest esports tournament, the Evolution Series Championship (EVO), which was held in Las Vegas. This experience provided them with the opportunity to compete at the highest level of esports. With over 10,000 players and competitors representing 63 countries, it was an opportunity for our gamer-scholars to gain insight into the esports and gaming culture and compete with some of the best gamers in the world, and they were ready. Several placed in the top 25% of their respective titles. This moment catapulted their self-confidence and self-efficacy to another level. While competing against professional and amateur gamers, they showcased their gaming prowess as esports athletes. We also utilized this opportunity to expose them to different career pathways within the esports and gaming ecosystem, as well as opportunities to gain insight regarding the soft and technical skills that they would need to employ in order to succeed in the esports and gaming industry. Resilience, flexibility, adaptability, perseverance, and tenacity are essential components to succeeding in any field, so I was immensely proud to see our Golden Bulls charging ahead and exhibiting these character traits!”
Johnson C. Smith University is the first HBCU to take the plunge into the academic and competitive esports arena and is a formidable force representing all HBCUs within the collegiate ecosystem. This is evidenced by their past victories against varsity teams and Esports Clubs at Power 5 institutions, such as Duke University, Michigan State University, Virginia Tech, the University of North CarolinaCharlotte, and Louisiana State University, among many others. Dr. Lawson-Williams shares, “When our esports athletes defeated teams at PWIs that are widely known for their high-reputable athletic programs, everyone was aghast. However, we always knew our gamer-scholars were capable of competing and defeating their opponents at the highest level of competition, both academically and athletically!”
Dr. Lawson-Williams hopes to increase the visibility of the African American population in the esports and gaming field. She says, “Only two to four percent of professionals in the esports and gaming field identify as African Americans, although 83% of HBCU students play video games daily and weekly. Our presence should be more prevalent within esports and gaming corporations.” Still, the number of African Americans working within these companies is minimal. Nevertheless, she and her team are adamant about bridging that gap within the esports and workforce.
The curriculum designed for the Esports and Gaming Management academic program is rigorous. Dr. LawsonWilliams states, “The curriculum entails all necessary content that is geared at providing our students with hands-on experiences with planning, organizing, and executing small and large-scale tournaments. The curriculum is a win-win because students can tailor it to fit the career fields within esports and gaming that they wish to pursue. We are excited to revamp our certificate program, which was also launched in 2020, to include other innovative tracks like game development, game design, and artificial intelligence. The uniqueness of our program is that it complements every major program. The crossover is amazing; it is one of the most popular minor programs on JCSU’s campus. Our program is a huge draw for our Gen-Z students, who have practically grown up with technology in their hands!”
Not only does our entire JCSU campus community support our program, but we also receive support through a Department of Education Title III grant. This funding has enabled JCSU faculty, staff, and students to participate in professional development events and field trip experiences and to compete in esports tournaments throughout the nation, including the world’s largest esports tournament in history.
Dr. Lawson-Williams says, “It’s about JCSU’s students realizing that they not only have a seat at the table but also have a plate and utensils. “Our gamer-scholars are directly benefiting through the program’s offering. Last academic year, our Esports Club President was a young lady, and it was phenomenal witnessing her exert herself and exude confidence within the space. Most people don’t realize this, but 48% of American gamers are women. Not only is our
program all-inclusive, but it also reaches the community and prevents youth from having too much idle time on their hands. We want to cultivate an environment that engages our K-12 gamer-scholars, so we host various educational events throughout the academic year that enable our young gamers to visit our Esports Lab and gain an understanding of the innumerable benefits of participating in esports and gaming. We hosted the first HBCU Esports and Gaming Summer Camp for high school students in 2023. This pipeline is purposeful. We want to position future Golden Bulls for success through esports and gaming. We equip our scholars with the tools necessary to succeed!”
Dr. Lawson-Williams encourages gamer-parents to permit their children to delve into their passion for gaming instead of forcing them to invest in academic interests that their parents consider to be a “safe” route for gainful employment. She suggests, “I would like for gamer-parents to encourage their children to pursue recreational, competitive, and career opportunities within the esports and gaming ecosystem. Instead of telling them to put down their controllers, encourage them to use their controllers to learn the mechanical and business intricacies of the esports and gaming industry. With a background in esports and gaming, your child can work for mega esports corporations like Riot Games, Activision Blizzard, or Epic Games, develop new video games, or your child can become an entrepreneur and own a game truck. I want parents to know that there are innumerable career opportunities and pathways for their children through esports and gaming. As a gamer-parent, I am an advocate for my twin sons’ advancement in the esports and gaming sector. They have been playing video games since they were four years old and competing in tournaments since they were nine years old. Now, at 15 years old, they are thriving competitively and enthusiastically pursuing the next steps in preparing to pursue a future within the industry. As parents, we want our children to connect with their passion point, and whatever that passion point is, in this case, if it’s esports and gaming, then let’s recognize and respect their talent and position them to experience success in that area. This will ensure that they can follow their passion journey all the way to the finish line, where success will be waiting!”
Dr. Lawson-Williams graduated Cum Laude with a B.S. degree in Physical Education from South Carolina State University (SCSU). She completed her M.S. in Exercise and Sport Science with a concentration in Sports Administration from the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse and received her Doctorate with Honors in Sport Management from the United States Sports Academy. She has also completed post-graduate coursework at North Carolina Central University’s prestigious School of Law. Additionally, she has received numerous awards, including but not limited to being named a recipient of the Dean’s Distinguished Service Award for the College of Business and Professional Studies at JCSU in May of 2024. In 2023, she received the NC SHAPE College/University Sport Management Educator of the Year award. She was also a recipient of the Tepper Sports and Entertainment Achievement Award in 2022.
Dr. Lawson-Williams is a staunch advocate for fostering gamer-scholars’ exposure to innovative and experiential learning opportunities that will enable them to excel with and beyond their controllers!
Huami Magazine Community Awards 2025
Charlotte Marriott Center City - Charlotte, NC
We are coming to the Queen City of Charlotte, NC.
Please mark your calendars for June 7th, 2025, as the Huami Magazine Community Awards will take place at the Charlotte Marriott City Center. Following up on our first gala of 2023, we are excited for the opportunity to present Black Excellence from various parts of the Huami Magazine network, which covers more than 23 states around the country.
Community Leaders, Business Leaders, and NonProfit Organizations will be honored and recognized for the great work they have done and continue to do in their respective communities. There will also be some great speakers, good food, and entertainment. This a formal, black tie event, and one that you don’t want to miss.
The evening will begin with a Red Carpet Reception at 5:30 pm. The Gala Reception will start at 6:30pm
For more information, please call 336-340-7844. Seating is limited and group packages are available. Tickets are on sale and can be purchased at the link listed below. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. For sponsorship information, please send a detailed email to mykelmediaco@gmail.com h
www.read-huamimagazine.com/awards-gala-2025
Greg Jackson Heal Charlotte
By Terry L. Watson
Provided by Greg Jackson
Greg Jackson has a huge heart for the Charlotte community.
He is the Founding Executive Director of Heal Charlotte. Most importantly, he is a Man of God and a great father to his three girls. In 2021, he was honored as the Charlottean of the Year.
While serving others has always had a place in Greg’s heart, he has done a lot more. He was a rapper and a sous chef when protests began following the Keith Lamont Scott shooting in 2016. Greg led a group to protest at the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department headquarters, and a crucial conversation that day changed his trajectory. Shortly after, he started the non-profit Heal Charlotte, through which Greg has helped train officers to communicate with the community in volatile situations, launched mentorship and development programs for at-risk youth, and deployed efforts that focus on revitalizing the Sugar Creek corridor and northeast Charlotte area with a holistic approach to the family unit.
Most recently, Heal Charlotte received a $2.25M grant in a unanimous decision by Charlotte City Council (in September 2023) to gain a master lease of what was once the Baymont Inn but is now Heal Charlotte Community Campus. With this, Heal Charlotte is working to house displaced families and facilitate access to resources that nurture upward mobility.
Greg says, “The mission of Heal Charlotte is to Build your integrity-create a wall of positive characteristics that protects your Integrity from the enemy. Find your passions. We all have passions, and some of them are connected to a gift. Find those passions and work on them. They will ultimately lead you to your divine purpose. Walk into your purpose. The reason GOD created you to operate as a vessel on earth for the Glory of the KINGDOM. When what you do naturally aligns with who you are spiritually. Serve your Community. If everyone does a little bit, no one will have to do a lot. Build a Legacy. Attach yourself to a Legacy that’s bigger than you. This Legacy must be for the greater good of all who are involved.
Serving the community and being a bridge of communication between the residents and its local officials is what drives him.
Photos
2nd Annual Black Massage Therapist Conference
“Building Relationships”
By Terry L. Watson - Photos Provided by Davonna Willis
On October 8th and 9th, 2024 The 2nd Annual Black Massage Therapist Conference will take place, at the Hilton Charlotte Airport Hotel in Charlotte, NC. This year’s theme is “Building Relationships.”
Led by Davonna Willis, the founder of 4 Nineteen Education and Wellness, this year’s event is slated to expound upon the success of 2023. The focus of the conference comes from a passage in the bible from Hebrews 10:25, which says, “If we come together, it becomes much easier to network and find close companions who will help us do the right thing. We see things more clearly when we bounce ideas off one another. We usually work smarter and not as hard when we work as a unit. Consequently, it is difficult to do any of these things when we remain in isolation. In fact, we should come together even more frequently, eager to encourage and urge each other onward as we anticipate that day dawning.”
At the Black Massage Therapist Conference, Davonna and the many other industry professionals in attendance have a simple goal in mind. They aim to provide a platform for business leaders to come together and share their insights and experiences. “Our mission is to inspire and empower attendees to take their businesses to the next level. We bring together industry experts and thought leaders to share their knowledge and expertise. Our speakers are carefully selected to provide attendees with the most valuable and relevant information,” Davonna says.
In addition to informative sessions, the Black Massage Therapist Conference provides ample networking opportunities for attendees to connect with like-minded professionals. Their events are designed to foster meaningful connections that can lead to valuable partnerships.
8th & 9th, 2024
Davonna
Willis
4 Ninteen Education & Training
Hotel accommodations are available at a discounted rate. In addition to various levels of sponsorship options, donations are much appreciated. Davonna says, “By giving to Black Massage Therapist Conference, you’ll be able to help us assist members of the black massage community to have a place of belonging, celebration, networking and education.”
Eloria Smith Wellness Technique
Los Angeles, CA
Behind everything you see, there is a curtain concealing the magic. Whether it is television, film, music, real life, production, creative, domestic, or contracting – there is always a team of folks who are first to arrive and last to leave, who put their bodies through the most!
Eloria Smith is the body relaxation tailor to the BTS (behind the scenes) artisan. A graduate of The National Holistic Institute for Massage Therapy, Eloria Smith is the owner of The Wellness Technique – a mobile massage service based in Los Angeles, CA whose primary focus is on serving those with labor-intensive or physically demanding positions. However, acutely aware that every body still requires therapeutic touch, her commitment to personalized care that caters to each client’s unique needs is the driving force behind her practice.
As a professional bodyworker with training and experience in multiple massage modalities, including aromatherapy, stretch therapy certification, shiatsu, and lymphatic massage, Eloria uses massage therapy to restore, preserve, and promote optimal health and quality of life by creating a relaxing environment where clients feel safe, secure, and comfortable.
As a professional bodyworker, one of Eloria’s main objectives is to promote the importance of body autonomy and self-care practices. Especially to deflate the common notion in our community that massage is a luxury allotted only to a certain demographic rather than a viable means of necessary healthcare for all. Having always been dedicated to helping people, facilitating individuals’ achievement of their optimal health through a serene holistic approach to wellness through massage therapy is her passion.
Originally from New York, Eloria now resides in San Fernando Valley, California. She values her family and a close-knit circle of friends. Most of her time is spent enjoying traveling and writing. Her mission is to provide an exceptional experience that leaves each client feeling prioritized, refreshed, and revitalized...every time. That’s her Wellness Technique.
Marie Antoinette Jones
Chicago, IL
Marie Antoinette Jones is a Licensed Massage Therapist and owner of Your Massage Fix, LLC, located in Oak Park, IL, a near-west suburb of Chicago).
After working in the Fashion and Merchandising industry, Marie decided to switch careers during the recession and found a new love in the Massage industry. After graduating from the Illinois School of Health Careers in 2007, she began a long, successful career as a Massage Therapist.
Throughout her career, she held the roles of Lead Massage Therapist and Clinic Manager for one of the largest massage franchises. She was consistently nominated for Massage Therapist of the Year for four years and was also nominated for Clinic Manager of the Year. Marie also Co-owned a Continuing Education company (Synergy Consulting Continuing Ed.) that was accredited by NCBTMB (National Certification Board for Massage & Bodywork). She provided extensive hands-on training and advanced knowledge of many massage modalities and Ethics. That company would later provide Corporate Massage Therapy Services for some of Chicago’s top Companies and hospitals.
Currently, Marie has a private Massage Therapy and Wellness Practice, Your Massage Fix, LLC. With a consistently booked schedule for months out, she is hard to get an appointment with but very worth it, according to her many satisfied clients. “While I have years of expertise and training in numerous modalities, I also bring an intuitive approach to each session. This helps provide a customizable and unforgettable Massage Experience”.
Recently, she attended the Inaugural Black Massage Therapist Conference held in Charlotte, NC, in October of 2023. The conference, started by Davonna Willis( founder of 4Nineteen Education and Training), provided continuing education classes, much-needed recognition for Black Massage Therapists, and a safe community in which to share their experiences within the industry. During the conference, Marie was the recipient of a Business Grant sponsored by Massage Magazine Insurance Plus for her continued contributions.
Marie is also currently providing self care workshops for women in her community. She recently added the title of Reiki practitioner to her belt and hopes to introduce her knowledge of alternative healing in many forms to women who struggle with taking care of themselves, especially women of color.
Lemar Storey Life Touch Massage
Birmingham, AL
A native of Birmingham, Alabama, Lemar Storey graduated from Berea College in Berea, Kentucky, in 2002 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Child and Family Studies. After serving in the social service field for two years and comprehending the effects of stress on families and their environment, Lemar decided to extend his reach of social service by attending Virginia College’s School of Massage Therapy.
In 2005, Lemar opened Life Touch Massage, which provides professional massage services at an affordable price in communities that lack health and wellness alternatives. Lemar recognized the importance of educating the minority population, so he provided educational material to churches, schools, and other organizations teaching the benefits of massage therapy. Additionally, Lemar and his team donate chair massage services throughout the year to individuals and organizations, such as the YWCA, to promote a positive, caring touch to those individuals who may have experienced negative or abusive touch.
In 2014, Lemar was nominated by Governor Bentley to serve on the Alabama Board of Massage Therapy, where he served five years, ending his service as the board chair. In 2021, Lemar purchased a commercial building and opened the Olive Branch Mind and Body Suites, a wellness collective aimed to provide massage therapy, mental health counseling, yoga, and sound and vibrational therapy for underserved and underresourced communities.
The primary focus of The Olive Branch is to offer a secure, non-judgmental therapeutic environment for individuals of color to navigate life’s stressors while adopting healthier behaviors to break free from generational cycles of unhealthy patterns.
Lemar believes in the Connect, Love, Grow philosophy. We believe that touch is a means of Connection, an avenue to spread Love, and a tool to facilitate Growth. h
LaToya Hill Hill’n Hands Massage
LaToya Hill, a dynamic entrepreneur and seasoned massage therapist, has long been recognized for her profound resilience and dedication to personal and professional growth. Born and raised in North Carolina, LaToya’s journey is marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence, underscored by her commitment to fostering wellness and business acumen in others.
LaToya’s career began in the world of massage therapy after receiving her diploma from Southeastern Institute. Her skills quickly set her apart, leading her to work with professional athletes and earn a reputation for excellence in sports massage. Despite the successes, the physical and emotional demands of the industry led to a stress-induced illness, which became a turning point in her life. Instead of succumbing to adversity, LaToya chose transformation, pivoting from hands-on therapy to empowerment through education.
In this next chapter, LaToya founded Hill’n University, an innovative educational platform designed to elevate the skills of massage therapists and business owners alike. The institution offers a diverse range of courses and consulting services, aimed at helping individuals at every stage of their career ladder—from budding entrepreneurs to established professionals—find their purpose and thrive. Her expertise in business is complemented by her academic achievements, holding an Associate’s degree in Paralegal Technology and a Bachelor’s in Sport Management. Beyond her entrepreneurial ventures, LaToya is deeply committed to giving back to her community. She serves as the organizer of the Black Massage Therapist Conference hosted by 4 Nineteen Education and Training, a role that allows her to champion the advancement of Black professionals within the wellness industry.
LaToya is also a published author, with several eBooks on Amazon, and a regular columnist for Spunq Sports Magazine, where she shares insights from her extensive experience in sports and wellness. Her writings reflect her philosophy of resilience and empowerment, principles she lives by daily.
Personal peace and happiness remain at the forefront of LaToya’s life goals. As a single mother, she is devoted to guiding her daughter through high school and into a world where she can live unapologetically and express herself freely. LaToya’s life and work are a testament to her belief in the transformative power of education, wellness, and the pursuit of one’s passions, making her a beacon of inspiration and a leader in her community.
Davonna Willis
4 Nineteen Education & Training
Phoenix, AZ
As a respected health and wellness practitioner, an acclaimed entrepreneur, and educator, Davonna Willis is a passionate advocate for her colleagues and students. She has a Masters Degree in Health Education and Bachelors Degree in Athletic Training (Sports Medicine).
Davonna has over 20 years of experience in the health and wellness field. Starting in the Bronx and moving her way west, Davonna is a well-rounded business professional, especially accomplished in the area of holistic physical rehabilitation therapy.
As Founder and CEO of 4 Nineteen Education & Training, Davonna is committed to establishing and sustaining high-quality standards of care in the industry. As the leader of an award-winning business, Davonna is widely known as someone who cares deeply about collaboration and Relationships.
Davonna Willis is a nationally accredited CE Provider for Massage Therapists and Athletic Trainers through the NCBTMB & BOC.
She facilitates a variety of medical massage curricula and also offers consulting on marketing and strategy to new business enterprises.
Davonna is committed to the health and the development of her colleagues and students. She is an advocate for elevating the way massage is perceived in society so that people fully recognize the power of healing in an expert’s human touch. She received a Certificate of Excellence from MT Banquets in 2021. She has been on many podcasts and has been featured in articles. She has also written articles and has been a speaker/instructor at various conferences, private businesses, and academic entities.
Davonna is Founder of the Black Massage Therapist Conference which had the successful inaugural event on October 14, 2023 in Charlotte, NC. Due to the success of the first year, the Black Massage Therapist Conference will be an annual event every October.
Nurses LanishaHunter
Voted one of NC’s Top 100
By Terry L. Watson
Photos
Provided
by
Visionsofgracephotography-Deseree
Blount 1610stillgrowing-Ashley Stovall
“Leap and the net will appear!”
Lanisha Hunter of Greensboro, NC, describes the feeling of being named one of NC’s Top 100 Nurses to that of winning a Grammy award for nursing. Out of a group of nearly 153,000 nurses, being selected as one of the 2024 Great 100 is quite remarkable.
Since 2015, Lanisha has served as a Director of Nursing for Cone Health, which is also located in Greensboro, NC. Her responsibilities include nursing director of a general surgery, trauma, and palliative care unit. “I like to say it is a nice “gumbo” of things,” Lanisha shares. “I manage over 60+ employees who vary in roles. I’ve also had the opportunity to open a trial department and worked as an interim leader for several other areas in the past couple of years.”
The field of nursing requires compassion, kindness, empathy, and love; qualities that Lanisha exudes without effort. “I am a humble, God-fearing, and thoughtful individual who is passionate about my work. Most importantly, I try to do all things with a spirit of excellence. Though I am short in stature, I have a big personality and an even bigger smile,” she says.
Lanisha’s character has a lot to do with her upbringing. Her father is a pastor in Statesville, NC, where she spent most of her childhood years. She is one of four children, and along with her sister, she still sings on the praise team at her church every Sunday. Most recently, her life was made complete when she married her love, Bryon Long, in May of 2024, and together, they are learning and growing in this new chapter. Lanisha is also active in her community and enjoys being a part of a wonderful sisterhood.
Lanisha’s journey in nursing began nearly 18 years ago. After obtaining her undergraduate degree in nursing from the distinguished North Carolina A&T State University and began working at Cone Health in 2006. Amazingly, Lanisha never thought of herself as a leader. She was always a quiet and timid person, but she says that nursing has taught her to have a backbone, speak up when needed, and advocate for what is right. She is also thankful for someone recognizing her potential and pushing her to do more. Additionally, Lanisha has obtained her Masters and Doctorate in Healthcare Administration.
I am a humble, God-fearing, and thoughtful individual who is passionate about my work. Most importantly, I try to do all things with a spirit of excellence.
Being named one of NC’s Top 100 Nurses has also refreshed Lanisha’s love and passion for serving others and provided a sense of confirmation on why she chose this career. She says, “One of the most rewarding things about being a nurse is making a difference in the lives of others. I love seeing the light bulb come on in a new nurse and the appreciation of patients for receiving great care. My cup is often filled when I can help others see the potential that lies within, supporting them to foster it and watching them walk in their purpose. When you hear people say nursing is a calling, I believe that wholeheartedly. It is more than a profession. Even on the hard days, there is usually a moment or action that brings me back to my why. You do the work with integrity and only hope and pray that you are making a difference. This award has shown me that I have done just that. I have tried my best to strengthen the nursing profession in my circle of influence. I hope the seeds I have planted in others will continue to blossom in the years to come. I am blessed to be a part of this sacred work.”
Lanisha credits her parents with having the biggest impact on her life and career. “Neither of my parents went to college but always wanted more for my siblings and me. Growing up we always had what we needed and were taught to value the relationship of family. My father is one of the most resilient people I know,” she says. “He has truly defined what it is to be independent, a hard worker, and to strive to always do your best. My mom is a kind and gentle soul and has taught me to treat others with respect, to not give up on my dreams, and to always keep God first. I have learned many life lessons from them both, and I hope that I have made them proud.”
While Lanisha has enjoyed her career in nursing, it hasn’t come without a few challenges. One of the biggest challenges she has encountered as a nursing leader has been recovery after Covid. She says, “As we know, Covid turned life upside down for many, and working a job where I could not run from it shifted how I looked at healthcare. We really rallied through the pandemic together. The aftermath has been staff retention, burnout, and competition with competitors. As a leader, you have to be flexible, listen to your team, and get creative to do things differently. Allowing the staff to have a voice and become a team of problem solvers has really helped with managing such difficulties.”
For those who may follow a path similar to hers, Lanisha offers some sound and encouraging advice. “Experience is your best teacher. The more you work at your craft, the better you will get at it. Someone is always watching, so make sure that you give them something to see. My father often says, are you going to be a thermostat or a thermometer? Be a thermostat so that you can create the atmosphere around you. I pray that I will have added value and richness to the lives of those I encounter.”
As Lanisha plans for her future, she states that she doesn’t want to look back with any regrets. Besides traveling and spending time with her family, she also intends to work on her nursing craft. Lanisha would also love to create a scholarship for other future medical professionals, open up an adult day center, and continue to mentor future nurses. As stated previously, she isn’t afraid to leap and is more comfortable with taking a leap of faith in life and in nursing.” h
The UNC-Charlotte Black Alumni Chapter (BAC) Excellence in Leadership Program
Information Obtained from www.charlotte.edu
The UNC Charlotte Black Alumni Chapter (BAC) Excellence in Leadership program was established in 2011 under the leadership of former BAC President Dr. Gregory Davis ‘76. The purpose of the program is to recognize the accomplishments of UNC Charlotte alumni and friends who have achieved “excellence” in the following areas:
Activism & Advocacy
The Activism & Advocacy Award recognizes UNC Charlotte Black alumni who have demonstrated unwavering dedication to driving positive change in our community. Through their tireless efforts, they have advocated for social justice, environmental justice, equity and human rights, inspiring others to join their cause and make a lasting impact on the communities they serve.
Arts & Culture
The Arts & Culture Award celebrates creative culture and artistic expression. This award honors UNC Charlotte Black alumni who have enriched our lives through their contributions to visual arts, performing arts, literature, fashion, graphic design and other artistic expressions. Recipients of this award have left an indelible mark on the cultural fabric of their communities.
Education
The Education Award recognizes UNC Charlotte Black alumni who have dedicated their lives to nurturing knowledge and fostering learning. Whether in traditional classrooms or through innovative educational initiatives, these honorees have empowered others to grow, develop critical thinking skills and realize their full potential.
Emerging Leader
The Emerging Leader Award acknowledges UNC Charlotte Black alumni who are blazing trails and have shown remarkable promise as well as leadership potential. These individuals are making waves in their respective fields, demonstrating innovation, resilience and the ability to inspire others, all while paving the way for a brighter future.
Entrepreneurship
The Entrepreneurship Award celebrates the UNC Charlotte Black alumni pioneers of business and innovation. Recipients have demonstrated exceptional entrepreneurial spirit, creating and scaling ventures that not only drive economic growth but also spark innovation, create jobs and contribute to the evolution of industries.
Equitable Economic Development & Leadership
The Equitable Economic Development and Leadership (Community Economics) Award acknowledges UNC Charlotte Black alumni who have played a pivotal role in promoting economic growth and prosperity, especially in Black and historically marginalized communities, in their roles as financial services, contractors, developers, urban planners, decisionmakers and other community leaders.
Health & Wellness
The Health & Wellness Award shines a spotlight on individuals or initiatives that have made outstanding contributions to the well-being of individuals and communities. Recognizing the importance of physical, mental and emotional health, this honor celebrates those UNC Charlotte Black alumni who have worked tirelessly to promote healthy lifestyles, provide access to essential healthcare services and improve overall quality of life. Whether through medical advancements, advocacy or community programs, recipients of this award have played a vital role in ensuring that people lead healthier and more fulfilling lives.
Philanthropy & Humanitarianism
The Philanthropy & Humanitarianism Award pays tribute to UNC Charlotte Black alumni who exemplify the true essence of giving. Through their selfless acts of kindness and generosity, recipients have improved the lives of the less fortunate (and historically marginalized), driven positive social change and uplifted communities facing challenges.
Research & Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
The Research & Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Award honors UNC Charlotte Black alumni whose groundbreaking research and innovations have advanced our understanding of the world and pushed the boundaries of human knowledge and capability.
Dr. Gregory Davis Visionary Leadership Award
The Visionary Leadership Award is the highest honor of the Excellence in Leadership Awards, celebrating UNC Charlotte Black alumni who have demonstrated transformational and innovative leadership. This award is reflective of alumni who have given back to the university through time, talent or treasure and are passionate about the university while making a meaningful impact on the community. In the spirit of Sankofa where “it is not taboo to fetch what is at risk of being left behind,” this award shines a light on alumni who have shown deep commitment to creating a better future for the university and the community.
Learn More About My Experience of Being A Caregiver For My Mother
By Terry L. Watson
CHAPTER SIX: Caring and Love Go Hand in Hand
As a young boy growing up with my other siblings, I watched my mother wear so many hats. Now, as a full-grown man, I am even more amazed at how she did so much with it only being her. My mother was everything to a whole lot of people, and by being so, I watched how it wore her down. Still, she never spoke about how tired she was. She just kept pushing and moving, and pushing, and moving.
What I learned more than anything from watching my mother was that she had a heart the size of Jupiter, and she shared her love with anyone. It was like she never met a stranger. It didn’t matter if it was a neighbor at church, a stranger in the grocery store, or a co-worker. My mother always seemed to attract new friends and treat them all the same: with love, compassion, and empathy.
I’ve always wondered why Mama was so loving and giving. I didn’t get my answer until I was a lot older. One of her neighbors who had known her as a young girl told me that my mother reflects the upbringing that her grandmother gave her. My mother was raised by her, and when I heard this, it made perfect sense. My grandmother was so classy and so loving. She was the sweetest person I knew, next to my mother, of course. My mother’s neighbor also shared that as a young girl, my mother was taught how to care for others. My mother was a caregiver, but not just for the sick and ill; she cared for everyone.
Fast-forward to today, I think it makes perfectly good sense for me to care for her. Out of all of the traits and qualities I reflect on my mother, it’s my ability to care and love for her that I am able to connect with. In order to effectively care for her, I must love her. I also believe those two traits go hand in hand; they must be present in all capacities when attempting to meet the needs of others with dependencies such as hers.
During a trip to a rehabilitation session for my mother, I observed how healthcare professionals interacted with other patients. As my mother received physical and occupational rehabilitation, there were others present who also had suffered from similar ailments as her: stroke, brain injuries, motor vehicle accidents, and more. Their degree of disability varied, but what they all had in common was a need for the assistance of others. I witnessed how the therapists managed each individual. It was obvious that the goal was to improve their client’s quality of life and lessen their dependence on assistance, but getting to that place required some work.
I learned that it required a genuine love for people. I believe that the therapist must have really loved their work and, most importantly, loved and cared about their clients. I also felt as if I was in a familiar or sort of friendly and accommodating environment. Possibly because I embody those same qualities and depend on them daily while caring for my mother.
As I continue to care for my mother, I am at peace knowing that not everyone is equipped to be a caregiver. It is not for everyone. It doesn’t mean that I am better or greater than anyone; it only means that I have decided to allow my heart to lead me. I am so grateful for the opportunity to show my mother how much she is appreciated and that all of her hard work didn’t go unnoticed. She deserves to be loved each and every day. h
I decided to share my experience as a full-time caregiver for my mother to consult, console, and inform other families who may be going through a similar situation. As a son, caring for my mother never feels like work; if so, it is a labor of love. Please continue to follow this message, Becoming A Caregiver, in Huami Magazine. I hope that sharing my experience will help others. From one caregiver to the next, God Bless You!
Deborah Callaway Dr.
Life After NYSP and NC A&T State University
By Terry L. Watson
Photos Provided by TMFPhotography
Dr. Deborah Johnson Callaway has lived a very interesting life.
Dr. Callaway is a native of the Blandford community in Petersburg, VA. She was raised alongside two older brothers by two hard-working parents. She shares that her parents didn’t have much education; her dad worked on a produce truck, and her mother worked in housekeeping. With her being the only girl and the baby, Dr. Callaway says she got all of the attention.
Dr. Callaway says her parents were able to afford to send her to college. However, that didn’t stop her. After graduating from high school, she attended Virginia State College, now Virginia State University, and majored in Health and Physical Education. She marched in the band, played basketball as well, and was a member of the first women’s basketball team at VSU. After graduating from there, Dr. Callaway entered the workforce and worked as a middle school teacher in the Martinsville City School system. She would eventually return to college at Virginia Commonwealth University and receive her Masters Degree in Guidance Counseling before returning back to the public school sector, working as a Guidance Counselor at Amelia County High School. During this time, Dr. Callaway also served in the United States Army as a Drill Sergeant. Far from being done with her educational pursuits, Dr. Callaway went back to college at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, VA, to receive her doctorate degree.
After graduating from Virginia Tech, Dr. Callaway began work in higher education at Barber-Scotia College in Concord, NC. “My intention at Barber-Scotia was to be a teacher on staff. However, things went a little different. The President of the college notified me that I would also be the Department Head. I didn’t have any experience, but I was told that I was selected because I was the only one with a degree. I was then notified that I was going to be the head basketball and softball coach. I had never coached a day in my life, and I had to do all of that while at Barber-Scotia,” she says. Amazingly, things would again change for Dr. Callaway.
She stayed at Barber-Scotia for about four years. While there, the school was going through the accreditation process. Dr. Callaway shared that she received word that someone was trying to reach her. It was a man who was on the state team, and eventually, he showed up at the gym where Dr. Callaway was working. “This man introduced himself as Dr. Al Walker, the Dean of the School of Education at North Carolina A&T State University. He told me that before coming on this team, he heard there was a female head of the Physical Education Department at BarberScotia. He shared with me about a position available he had at NC A&T. He invited me to participate in an interview. I was a little familiar with NC A&T but still a little hesitant about the opportunity, mainly because I had no experience in something of that magnitude, and I let him know that. He didn’t really pay any attention to what I was saying. So, I decided to go to the interview, and Dr. Walker offered me the position. I pondered over my decision for a short while and eventually made my way to the home of Aggies.”
“I didn’t have any experience, but I was told that I was selected because I was the only one with a degree. I was then notified that I was going to be the head basketball and softball coach.”
The year was around 1985 when Dr. Callaway arrived at NC A&T. She served as the Department Chair for 14 years. She would also serve as Interim Athletic Director for Dr. Edward B. Fort. She also served as a Senior Women’s Administrator and as an Interim Dean for The School of Education. On the day she arrived back at Corbett’s gym, Dr. Callaway was contacted by Dr. Stanley Battle. He wanted her to work in his office. “I had just got back to Corbett’s gym, but I couldn’t say no to the Chancellor. I would eventually work as the Special Assistant to the Chancellor until Chancellor Harold Martin would arrive,” she says.
For the most part, the most significant role Dr. Callaway has led was her assignment with the National Youth Sports Program (NYSP). At NC A&T, Dr. Fort approached her with an interest in revamping the program. “Dr. Fort shared that he wanted me to bring the program back to A&T’s campus. He didn’t like the way the program ended previously, and he wanted to have it back. He gave me full authority to run and manage the program. I told him “yes”. I left his office and, stopped by his secretary’s desk and asked her what the NYSP was. I had no clue!”
Dr. Callaway would learn very quickly what NYSP was. The program was a nationally known program, and every HBCU in the country participated. There was also participation from Hawaii. Funded by the NCAA, NYSP was intended to serve low-income families, and there were very strict rules and guidelines that were to be followed. Under Dr. Callaway’s direction, she created a program that offered summer jobs to public school teachers, and they were paid very well. To meet the criteria set by the NCAA, there had to be at least 300 kids enrolled. Each participant received a physical exam before being accepted, and that required partnering with several Black physicians to get them done. The participants also received two hot meals each day, which were provided by NC A&T’s food service department. Additionally, Dr. Callaway served as a Special Assistant under Chancellor Battle and Chancellor Martin, and led NYSP, along with an excellent staff, to five national awards.
Dr. Callaway would continue to work with NYSP for nearly six years before transitioning into the role of NYSP Evaluator, allowing her to evaluate programs at 12 other HBCU’s.
Dr. Callaway would retire from NC A&T in 2014. Since then, she continues to enjoy her life. She also appreciates the friendships and relationships that were made throughout her life and career. “I love staying at home and tending to the house, as well as making frequent trips to the beach,” she says. “Who would have ever thought that a girl from Virginia would do so much in life.” h
Sherri Chisholm Leading On Opportunity
Sherri Chisholm is bringing change to Charlotte’s community.
A graduate of Harvard University, has faced some adversity throughout her career. One was a personal tragedy that altered the course of her career. She is presently the leader of Leading On Opportunity, and focused on improving the Queen City’s social and economic mobility.
Sherri Chisholm joined Leading on Opportunity as its director in September 2020, bringing nearly a decade of experience as an educational and nonprofit strategist to the role. She has worked in senior leadership at national nonprofits and major school districts across the country, where she drove transformation through strategic planning, organizational effectiveness, and leadership development.
Leading on Opportunity works alongside CharlotteMecklenburg’s exceptional community partners to create long lasting, transformational change in economic mobility outcomes. They help partners across Charlotte-Mecklenburg solve complex social challenges that no single person or organization can tackle on their own.
Prior to joining Leading on Opportunity, Sherri served as the founding Executive Director of Urban Alliance Detroit, a national youth workforce development nonprofit that aims to expand access to economic Opportunity for youth from under-resourced neighborhoods through paid internships, job skills training, and mentoring.
She is also the founder and CEO of FreeSpace Consulting Group, where she has worked to guide and support districts and nonprofit organizations across the country seeking to effect positive change in public education. Leading on Opportunity has five areas of focus. The organization takes a systemic approach to addressing the key determinants of Early Care and Education, Child and Family Stability and College and Career Readiness while simultaneously focusing on the cross-cutting factors of the Impact of Segregation and Social Capital. When addressed together, they believe these can have the greatest impacts on the opportunity trajectory of an individual.
To learn more about Leading on Opportunity, please visit their website.
