The daughter of Haitian immigrants, Leyla McCalla uses folk traditions and African rhythms to bridge the past and present, exploring the experiences of the Black diaspora. Her blend of folk music, showcasing her mastery of the cello, banjo and guitar, …

Margaret “Meg” Turner discovered her passion for woodturning six years ago. It began with a class at Woodcraft, a local woodworking store for professionals and hobbyists. Captivated by the craft, she made it her main hobby and is now the …

CiNease Freeman, who was young and had no family history of the disease, ignored the symptoms of rectal cancer for two years. But at 28, she could no longer overlook the condition, which typically affects men around age 62 and …

Bernette Hardy-Keyes saw an opportunity when a stranger knocked on her door, inviting her to help charter the National Coalition of 100 Black Women -Richmond Metropolitan Area Chapter (NCBW-RMAC). She had been searching for a community service organization to join, …

Founded to provide educational opportunities to formerly enslaved persons, HBCUs continue to empower Black Americans in pursuit of racial equity. A study by the Institute for College Access and Success reveals that HBCUs account for only 3% of all colleges …

At 16, Andrea Daughtry already was carving out a place for herself in the music industry.

Bryce Robertson’s passion for uplifting his community has driven his work since his time as a student government leader at Atlee High School in Hanover County. His commitment to this cause remains steadfast, and he is determined to inspire others …

HBCUs have played a critical role in the achievement of African Americans and their contributions to the U.S. To maintain the legacy and secure educational opportunities for future generations, alumni proudly provide financial support. Patricia Jones leads the charge locally …

Dr. Robert A. Winn, a physician-scientist dedicated to community-engaged cancer research and eliminating health disparities, is deeply concerned about the potential impact of federal funding cuts on scientific progress.

Amma Gatty, founder of Cultural Encounters, didn’t experience a culture shock when she moved from Ghana, West Africa, to Richmond — it was more of a “people shock.”

With over three decades in mental health, Dr. Lynda Hyatt has witnessed significant progress in reducing barriers to treatment and services. Yet, she remains steadfast in her fight against the societal stigma surrounding mental illness.

The Richmond Peace Education Center, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting peaceful education, offers workshops on conflict resolution, trauma healing, gun violence reform, and restorative justice. Through its advocacy for nonviolence, the center works to address harmful environments and reduce the …

When doctors told Melissa Weaver the lump she had felt for six months was not cancerous and didn’t need to be removed, they suggested it was due to hormonal changes. However, she wasn’t convinced and sought more conclusive answers.

Rebecca McCray remembers settling in with a good book on her grandmother’s plaid couch as a child.

As a proud alumnus, Nakeina E. Douglas-Glenn exemplifies Virginia Tech’s motto, “That I May Serve,” through her career and community service. She is deeply committed to making a positive impact for the betterment of her community.