COO Malik Nevels Reflects on Legacy, Leadership and Purpose as Men of Excellence Honoree
For this Chicago Defender Men of Excellence award recipient, the honor is more than a career achievement. It's an acknowledgment of the individuals, locations and principles who shaped him. “Being named a Chicago Defender Men of Excellence honoree is a profound honor. It’s a recognition not only of personal achievement but of the collective work of mentors, colleagues, and communities that have shaped and supported me along the way.," said Malik S. Nevels, chief operating officer of Treatment Alternatives for Safe Communities (TASC). "It's a validation of individual
Nayanna Ferguson Moves Spirits with Black-owned Tequila Brand
The tequila craze that’s been gripping the country for the past couple of decades shows no sign of tapering off anytime soon, and in fact, indicators point to an uptick in the consumption of distilled spirits derived from the blue agave plant. And as producers and distributors are experiencing remarkable growth in local and international markets, and the “shot, shot, shot,” chant continues to ring out in college bars and reputable restaurants alike, Black distillers are shifting the tides of tequila consumption. Mexico is the birthplace of tequila,
NFL’s Joique Bell Launches Free Summer Program at Wayne State to Empower Detroit Middle Schoolers Through Academics, Sports, and Mentorship
Born in Benton Harbor, "Detroit Made" former NFL running back for the Detroit Lions Joique Bell is taking his commitment to the city’s youth to the next level this summer, launching a five-week academic and athletic enrichment program designed to empower middle school students through a mix of STEAM learning, sports, mentorship, and real-world career exposure. Set to run from June 23 through July 29 at Wayne State University, the alma mater of Joique Bell, the Joique Bell Charity Summer Enrichment Program is completely free and open to
Women In Charge: Roz Clark Brings the Gift of Transformation to Women Who Want More
At a time when too many Americans are grappling with social uncertainty and the impact of declining resources for women’s health and fading support for advancing women in the workplace, Roz Clark is doubling down on her commitment to transforming the landscape and shoring up her efforts to empower women. Clark, a skilled communicator, proficient problem solver and sought-after life coach, uses her expertise to teach women to overcome obstacles and grow their capacities to experience and enjoy meaningful, productive and prosperous lives. “Here’s the thing, none of us
Ambassador Andrew Young Receives Honors for Work to End Childhood Disease
Ambassador Andrew Young’s distinguished and extensive career as a civil rights leader, lauded politician, and dedicated diplomat make him one of the most respected leaders in Atlanta, the nation and the world. As a venerated champion of social justice, Young remains one of the most recognized and appreciated figures in modern day history. Recently the former mayor of Atlanta and Ambassador to the United Nations received honors from National Jewish Health during the Forever Young Gala held at the Woodruff Arts Center in Atlanta where he received the
Michigan Chronicle Publisher Emeritus Mr. Sam Logan Will Receive Lifetime Achievement Award
The Society of Professional Journalists – Detroit Chapter will posthumously honor Mr. Sam Logan, the late publisher of the Michigan Chronicle, at its prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award during its May 14, 2025, annual banquet. For those who knew Mr. Logan personally—or those who knew him through the pages of the Chronicle—this honor is a powerful recognition of a life dedicated to journalism, justice, and the enduring power of the Black press. Mr. Logan was more than a publisher. He was a truth-teller, a community advocate, a businessman, and a
Trailblazer and Former Secretary of Labor Alexis M. Herman Remembered for History Making Moves
By Zenitha Prince AFRO Contributing Editor Pioneering civil servant and advocate Alexis Herman, who served as the 23rd and first African American Secretary of Labor, died April 25. She was 77. Herman achieved the historical first when then-President Bill Clinton nominated her for the Cabinet position at the beginning of his second term in the White House. “Hillary and I are deeply saddened by the loss of Alexis Herman, our friend of nearly fifty years. Alexis was gifted in so many ways. She was a skillful and creative administrator who, at
Appreciation for Social Workers Is on the Rise: S.W.A.G. Awards Recognizes Their Hard Work, Impact
THE HONOREES AT THE S.W.A.G. AWARDS, March 22, at the Sheraton Hotel Station Square. (Photo by J.L. Martello) If you can believe it, the annual Social Worker Appreciation of Greatness Awards, better known as the S.W.A.G. Awards, already has its date set for its 2026 event—March 7. It will be the sixth iteration of the S.W.A.G. Awards, which honors Pittsburgh's individuals, most of whom are Black, in the often-forgotten field of social work. It's best to mark the date on the calendar because the attendance for the event continues
Meet the Atlanta Business League’s CEO Awards Luncheon Chair, Bank of America’s Al McRae
Each year, the Atlanta Business League's (ABL) CEO Awards Luncheon shines a spotlight on business leaders who are driving innovation, creating jobs, and making a lasting impact on the economic landscape of Atlanta. As Chair, Al McRae will play a pivotal role in guiding the event's vision and execution. His leadership ensures that the luncheon not only honors outstanding accomplishments but also provides an inspiring platform for emerging entrepreneurs and professionals. The 2025 CEO event will be helmed by Al McRae, Private Bank Diverse Segments Executive President, Bank of America Atlanta. As President of Bank of America, Atlanta,
Former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms Announces Run for Governor of Georgia
Former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms has announced her intention to run for governor of Georgia during an appearance at this year’s Leading Women Defined Summit. Bottoms, Atlanta's 60th mayor is a graduate of Douglas High School, FAMU, and Georgia State University, served as a senior advisor to President Joe Biden and resigned the position, beating Donald Trump to the punch, who would go on to falsely claim that he fired her when he took office. “A day late and a dollar short,” Bottoms wrote on social media.