Paragon Marketing Group’s Post

🌟 Celebrating the Legacy of Historic Black Universities: A Testament to Progress 🌟 Yesterday marked a significant milestone as one of our Senior Advisors, Mervyn Jones, coordinated pivotal meetings for Fisk University at both the Department of Education and Capitol Hill. HBCUs have long stood as beacons of opportunity, resilience, and excellence in higher education. They have played an instrumental role in shaping the trajectory of countless lives, breaking barriers, and fostering innovation, including the lives of two of our Partners, Rontel Batie, MPS (FAMU) and Eboni M. Batie (Hampton/Howard.) At Batie and Associates, we recognize the profound impact that HBCUs have on our society and economy. That's why we are proud to stand in solidarity with these institutions, advocating for their interests at the highest levels of government. Our efforts not only amplify the voices of HBCUs but also pave the way for meaningful dialogue and action. In an era where diversity, equity, and inclusion are paramount, supporting HBCUs is not just a moral imperative but a strategic necessity. They serve as engines of opportunity, empowering generations of students from diverse backgrounds to pursue their dreams and make meaningful contributions to society. Let us recommit ourselves to championing the cause of HBCUs and advancing equity in education. Together, we can build a future where every individual, regardless of race or background, has the opportunity to thrive and succeed. #HBCUs #Diversity #Inclusion #GovernmentRelations #Equity #Education #Leadership

Continuing to educate & diversify our countries future leaders through HBCU is critical.

Allyship with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) is more than just a marketing campaign. 🤝Since the 1800s, HBCUs have been a driving force in developing successful Black professionals in America, and over the past five years, brands have begun to align themselves with HBCUs and diverse communities more often, but brands need to show they care with actions rooted in authenticity. B Code’s Senior Marketing Strategist Will Ayers shared why now is the time for brands to build meaningful bridges with HBCUs to enhance the student and post-grad experience. So what does it take for brands to tap into #HBCU culture in meaningful ways? ✅Investing in Campus Infrastructure ✅Empowering Students Through Mentorship ✅Building Talent Pipelines Click below to read more from Will on how #advertisingandmarketing brands can positively impact HBCUs on Adweek  ⬇️ https://bit.ly/3N3llXO

#BytheNumbers: According to a White House report, HBCUs have produced approximately 40% of all Black engineers, 50% of all Black lawyers, 70% of Black doctors and 80% of Black judges. These prestigious colleges and universities have also produced close to 50% of the teachers in America. HBCU’s have accomplished so much – many of the brilliant minds in our society today have walked HBCU campuses. Although HBCUs sit at the four-way intersection of authenticity, academia, culture and commerce, they’ve faced the challenge of being underfunded. Brands across America can bridge the gap, not only by showing up during key moments throughout the year but also making meaningful long-term investments in HBCU students and institutions. How can brands support HBCUs? Here are some ways: invest in campus infrastructure, empower students through mentorship, and build talent pipelines. Read more: https://lnkd.in/gAeZnq-w #HBCUs #BlackProfessionals #Mentorship #Empower #ThoughtLeadership

I’m a product of the #hbcu community and 100% agree with Mr Robert F. Smith’s assessment! As we approach February- the month where LOVE and American History is celebrated, I hope more organizations see the value of investing capital in historically underfunded colleges and universities. #blackhistorymonth #deistrategy #wealthmanagement #intergenerationalwealth

February is Black History Month. Though understanding and celebrating our differences should be practiced every month, I want to share this excerpt from “The Mentor’s Guide” to emphasize just how important it is: “In recent years, with issues of race and social justice prevalent in the social dialogue through movements in the United States and elsewhere, like Black Lives Matter, discussions about race in the workplace have become at once more necessary and more polarizing. Although we grew up in different generations (for Lois, the Traditionalist generation, and for Lisa, GenX), for most of each of our working lives, we were taught, explicitly and implicitly, that it was important to be color-blind at work. That is, that we couldn’t talk about or even acknowledge any racial or ethnic differences between us and our colleagues. The general feeling was that by avoiding any discussion of difference, we could avoid any inference of prejudice or discrimination. Though perhaps the intent was correct, we now know that the instruction was misguided. Employees feel a sense of belonging when they feel comfortable with being themselves at work. If we want to have effective mentoring relationships, we must encourage authenticity rather than minimize the differences that represent our mentee’s truth. To do this, we have to create enough psychological safety that mentoring partners can have conversations across difference. When you and your mentee have different racial or ethnic identities, it is critical to keep in mind that you will likely have had different life experiences and hold vastly different perspectives on the opportunities that are available to you and the barriers you face in your career. Honor your mentee’s perspectives and seek to understand their lived experiences and perceptions. Particularly when it comes to race and ethnicity, one’s perception of barriers and prejudice is one’s reality. Seek to understand these differences. It will create a safe space for your mentee to share and will undoubtedly broaden your perspective.” #BlackHistoryMonth #BridgingDifferences #DEI

The Milestones We Mark and the Paths We Pave! As we usher in Black History Month, I found myself in quiet reflection today on the concept of being 'the first.' In a small town where I am among the 5% Black population, I hold several roles where I might just be the inaugural face of diversity — the first Black PTO president at my son's school, perhaps the first dad to coordinate for the athletic association, or even the first Black coach for the middle school basketball team. Why is acknowledging these potential 'firsts' vital, especially for my colleagues in education and youth leadership? Because every 'first' is a testament to progress, a beacon for inclusive leadership, and a powerful call to action. It underscores the importance of representation, of showing our young people the infinite possibilities that lie ahead. For principals, superintendents, and directors, recognizing 'firsts' challenges us to reflect: How are we fostering environments that not only welcome but celebrate diversity? How are we ensuring that these 'firsts' are not onlys or one-offs but the start of a new norm? To my peers in youth-focused organizations and schools, our role is clear. We must continue to break barriers and cultivate Inclusive Spaces where every 'first' can lead to many. Where a young person does not feel isolated by their uniqueness but empowered by their potential and supported by their community. As the founder of Inclusive Spaces, my mission is to transform these singular milestones into waves of change, inspiring the next generation to not just dream of 'firsts' but to see them as their rightful place in the world. Let's honor this month by not only celebrating the 'firsts' but by committing to create a continuum of opportunity that ensures no one is the 'last' or the 'only.' #BlackHistoryMonth #Leadership #DiversityInEducation #InclusiveSpaces #FirstsNotLasts #ReflectingOnFirsts #InclusiveLeadership #InclusiveSpaces #BreakingBarriers

Top 10 Pioneering Achievements of HBCUs in American History: Explore the top 10 achievements of HBCUs and their impact on education, culture, and society, showcasing their enduring legacy and innovation. The post Top 10 Pioneering Achievements of HBCUs in American History appeared first on HBCU Lifestyle – Black College Living.

So I received this news a couple of weeks ago from Black Mentorship Inc. who I have supported through mentoring over the last several years. A wonderful recognition - highlighting one of my personal pillars - mentorship in our community. One of the best ways to build inclusion, equity and opportunity across every industry is through mentorship. Lifting up the next generation of professionals, leaders, and entrepreneurs within our community starts with equipping them with the skills and confidence they need to propel their careers forward. At the heart of mentoring within our communities is building relationships that encourage self-advocacy and boosts confidence. Mentoring connects mentees to opportunities, resources, and people that can help them develop their existing skills and increase their visibility in a positive manner. Mentoring does not make inequitable systems equitable, but it can increase access to important relationships, experiences, and opportunities that can help these individuals rise and thrive. Join us on February 3rd at the Black Mentorship Inc Black Excellence Celebration: This year, BMI’s theme is “Empower Now, Propel Our Future.” Paying homage to the exceptional contributions of Black individuals and professionals across diverse fields and to recognize the imperative work ahead in empowering and equipping future generations. https://lnkd.in/gfg_sHSz #BMI2024BlackExcellence #mentorship #blackprofessionals #equityandopportunity #leadershipanddevelopment #SJW

February, Black History Month, reminds us of the vital contributions Black individuals have made across all fields, including the vibrant world of technology. Yet, #systemicbarriers still hinder equal access and advancement for #Blacktalentintech. This month, let's go beyond celebration and take action to dismantle these barriers: 1)Advocate for Change: - Amplify Black voices: Seek out and share content created by #Blacktechprofessionals, highlighting their expertise and perspectives. - Demand diverse hiring practices: Encourage and hold companies accountable for implementing #inclusivehiringinitiatives and #talentpipelines. - Support relevant organizations: Donate to initiatives promoting #diversity and inclusion in tech, like #blackgirlscode or National Urban League Technology & Telecommunications Center. 2)Create Inclusive Workplaces: - Challenge unconscious bias: Educate yourself and others on implicit bias and its impact on decision-making within organizations. - Mentor and #sponsorBlacktalent: Actively offer guidance, support, and opportunities for growth to #Blackcolleagues, fostering their success. - Create safe spaces for open dialogue: Encourage honest conversations about experiences and challenges related to race and inclusion in the workplace. 3)Invest in the Future: - Support #educationalinitiatives: Donate to programs that encourage Black students to pursue STEM education and careers in technology. - Organize mentorship programs: Connect #techprofessionals with young #Blackstudents, providing role models and career guidance. - Promote accessible resources: Share information about scholarships, internships, and #careerdevelopmentopportunities relevant to #Blackcommunities. By advocating for change, creating inclusive workplaces, and investing in the future, we can all play a role in #dismantlingbarriers and ensuring equal opportunities for #Blacktalentintech ✊ It's not just about celebrating the past, but actively shaping a more equitable future. Let's make this Black History Month a catalyst for #meaningfulaction and lasting change. #BlackHistoryMonth #BlackInTech #DiversityInTech #DismantleBarriers #AmplifyBlackVoices #TakeAction #FutureofTech