100 Quarterly May 2025 Annual Conference Issue

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The 38th Annual Conference hosted by the 100 Black Men of America, Inc. is four intensive days of transformative experience with like-minded individuals and dynamic leaders.

June 4 - 8, 2025

New Orleans, LA

Letter from the Editor

Dear members, We are excited to invite you to our 39th Annual Conference in New Orleans, a significant event for the 100 Black Men of America, Inc. every year. In this issue, we are proud to highlight a few of our Collegiate 100 chapters.

Being involved with the 100 Black Men has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It’s more than just an organization—a brotherhood, a mission, and a movement rooted in purpose and service. I joined to give back, but I’ve gained a more profound sense of meaning and responsibility.

What I appreciate most is the opportunity to make a direct impact on the lives of young people. Through mentoring, workshops, and community programs, we don’t just talk about change—we create it. Watching a young man gain confidence, set goals, and rise above his circumstances because someone believed in him is something you will never forget. Being part of that transformation is humbling.

I also value the leadership and professionalism of the men around me. The 100 attracts individuals who are passionate, driven and committed to excellence. Their example pushes me to grow as a mentor and a leader in every part of my life.

Our work in education, health, economic empowerment, and advocacy strengthens our communities and builds a legacy of empowerment for future generations. It’s an honor to be part of something so meaningful.

Being involved with the 100 Black Men reminds me that when we come together, we can change lives. And that change begins with us—showing up, speaking up, and lifting others as we climb. That’s why I’m proud to be part of this powerful organization.

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

Highlights from Our Excellent Leadership Summit in Houston

The 100 Black Men of America, Inc. hosted its highly anticipated 2024 Leadership Summit in Houston, Texas. The summit brought together chapter leaders, emerging voices, and national stakeholders for a powerful weekend of strategy, inspiration, and unity. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Houston, it served as a pivotal moment for refining the organization’s vision and expanding its impact nationwide.

From the opening session, the energy was electric. Attendees were welcomed with Southern hospitality and a spirit of brotherhood that set the tone for a transformative experience. With a focus on leadership development, strategic planning, and operational excellence, the summit tackled the pressing issues facing both the organization and the communities it serves.

This Leadership Summit was grounded in the theme of Elevating and Empowering Members, Youth, and Communities. The 100 Black Men of America’s Leadership Summit is a dynamic and transformative gathering that is a cornerstone of our commitment to elevating and empowering African-American communities across the United States. Rooted in its mission to uplift and uplift the lives of young people through mentorship, education, and community engagement, this annual conference represents a pivotal moment in their ongoing journey.

The recent 2024 Leadership Summit was a remarkable gathering of minds and hearts dedicated to advancing our mission. With the vibrant energy of collaboration and the shared purpose of empowering our communities, we came together to continue our work to Future Proof The 100. The summit showcased our network’s strength

and members’ passion, from thought-provoking discussions to impactful decisions. For those who joined us, we thank you for your engagement.

At its core, the Leadership Summit is designed to equip our network of dedicated chapters with the tools, knowledge, and resources they need to thrive and expand their impact. The mission is to support and enhance the capacity of these chapters as they continue to serve as beacons of hope and opportunity in the communities they call home. The organization is committed to bolstering its ability to bring about real and lasting change by fostering a platform for knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and inspiration.

This Leadership Summit is about convening leaders, a unique group like this crowd of accomplished and decorated individuals, to lock arms to collaborate and become better leaders for the communities that we serve. This year’s summit allowed you to dive into the art of policy management and chapter growth at our Leadership Summit! Join discussions with leaders from 100 networks and discover top-notch program strategies.

The Leadership Summit was a highly motivating experience. The conference provided valuable information on various subjects, including best practices, while equipping chapters with the knowledge, tools, and resources needed to thrive and excel.

One outstanding highlight of the Leadership Summit was Chairman Milton H. Jones Jr.’s State of the 100 speech, the conference presented an opportunity to fellowship and build camaraderie among members from different regions, which is vital to any 100-member gathering.

As we worked with our students, their resilience was always displayed because “What They See Is What They’ll Be.” The 2024 Leadership Summit provided insights that equipped us to be better beacons for our upcoming youth.

When our communities and young people see what we can accomplish, TOGETHER – leaders from leaders from across the spectrum, business, education, military, government, medicine, and law to help us achieve our goals; .

We thank our host chapter, 100 Black Men of Metropolitan Houston, and President Darnell Joseph for their invaluable assistance and warm hospitality.

We also want to thank the chapter leaders who served as workshop moderators and panelists and shared their experience, expertise, and passion.

Houston was more than a host city—it symbolized resilience, growth, and forward momentum. As the summit concluded, attendees left with renewed purpose and equipped to return to their communities as more effective mentors, leaders, and change agents.

The Georgia Coalition of 100 Black Women and the Georgia District Chapters of 100 Black Men engaged with the Georgia Senate and House legislative members. Both organizations received resolutions from the floor and actively participated in several lunch panels that were crucial in addressing maternal healthcare concerns, gun safety, and DEI fears in the current political environment.

leadership. Whether you are a seasoned leader, an emerging professional, or a dedicated community advocate, this conference will empower you with the practical knowledge and valuable connections to drive meaningful change, leaving you prepared and confident.

The 100 Black Men of America, Inc. Annual Conference isn’t just an event—it’s a movement. As the world’s largest network of Black male mentors, we empower communities through leadership, education, and career development and will include:

•Inspiring Learning – Gain insights from top leaders on business, health, financial empowerment, and leadership.

•Unmatched Networking – Connect with professionals, pioneers, and changemakers.

•Career & Business Growth – Access tools for entrepreneurship and workforce success.

•Youth & Collegiate Development – Empower the next generation with mentorship and resources.

•Global Impact – Join a worldwide network driving change across continents.

As the 100 Black Men of America, Inc. prepares for its upcoming Annual Conference, excitement builds around a lineup of powerful, transformative sessions aimed at healing, empowering, and educating. Designed to address the Black community’s physical and structural challenges, this year’s conference focuses on innovative approaches to chronic disease management and nonprofit financial leadership.

One of the conference’s most anticipated components is the focus on modalities—nontraditional healing methods that offer an alternative or complement to conventional medical treatments. These therapeutic strategies were carefully selected to align with the 100’s ongoing mission to prevent and manage chronic diseases that disproportionately impact Black men and their families.

From guided meditation and massage therapy to nutrition-based healing and movement therapies like tai chi and yoga, the modalities offered during the conference are more than just wellness trends—they represent a holistic approach to health. Attendees will gain firsthand experience with practices that relieve stress, reduce inflammation, and support overall wellness.

The modalities initiative is not simply about relaxation but about education and empowerment. Expert practitioners will guide attendees through each technique, explaining its benefits and applications in daily life. Whether someone lives with high blood pressure, diabetes, or arthritis—or wants to

Ultimately, the conference reaffirms the 100’s commitment to uplifting the community through innovation, education, and empowerment. Whether attendees come seeking healing, certification, or connection, they will leave with tools to lead, inspire, and impact lives across the country. This is not just a gathering—it is a movement.

An extraordinary event that will take place at the conference is the Business Summit. Join 100 Black Men of America, Inc. as we offer entrepreneurs of all levels an evening of panel discussions, roundtable presentations, and networking. Industry subject matter experts will share their knowledge to help you expand the possibilities for the future growth of your business. The 100 Business Summit is set to:                                                 Link corporate and government buyers with minority business enterprises. This will provide minority business owners with direct access to corporate buyers and an opportunity to pitch their businesses to contract decision-makers. Demystify how to access capital that is currently available.

Another great highlight will be the 100 Town Hall: The Future of Black America. This powerful town hall brings together some of the nation’s most prolific and influential leaders across business, politics, education, health, and social justice for a candid conversation on the future of Black America. Panelists will discuss the pressing issues facing our communities, from economic empowerment and policy advocacy to leadership development and cultural influence. Attendees will gain insights into actionable solutions, collective progress, and our role in shaping a stronger, more equitable future. This is more than a conversation; it’s a call to action for the next era of Black excellence and empowerment.

There will be various competitions throughout the conference, such as The Brace B. Godfrey, Jr. African American History Challenge, created by 100 Black Men of America, Inc., which is more important now than ever. In a time when historical narratives are being challenged and rewritten, this competition empowers students to learn the true stories of their ancestors’ struggles and triumphs. Mentees gain a deeper understanding of Black history through an engaging and competitive format, equipping them to challenge misinformation and take pride in their heritage. Junior and Senior Division teams will compete in preliminary rounds for a chance to advance to the finals, proving that knowledge is power and history matters.

Dollars and $ense Youth Investment Competition, powered by 100 Black Men of America, Inc., in partnership with State Farm, equip the next generation with knowledge and skills to build wealth and achieve financial freedom. Designed to close the financial literacy gap among youth of color, this dynamic program empowers mentees with real-world investing and saving strategies. Get ready to witness the nation’s top young financial minds go head-to-head in an exciting competition for scholarships, the championship title, and the coveted trophy.

HIGHLIGHTS

Collegiate 100 Texas Southern

Collegiate 100 LSU and Southern

Collegiate 100 Florida A & M University

Collegiate 100 Morgan State University

Collegiate 100 Cheyney University.

100 Member News

ARE YOU READING WEDNESDAY WEEKLY?

Hello, everyone; we want to increase the readership for our weekly newsletter, Wednesday Weekly. This is an e-newsletter that provides you with important updates, valuable resources, and upcoming events from the 100 Black Men of America, Inc. From now on, we will be consistent with the information you want to hear from our National Office and Chapters.

Soon, we will release a calendar to prepare you for what we plan to do with your districts and when you will be featured in an issue. We want all members, regardless of their role or location, to feel not just included, but like an integral part of our communication process. Your voice matters and we value your input.

Our Chairman charged us with ensuring we communicate more, with the aim of fostering a stronger sense of community and shared purpose. I am asking for your help; please assist me when I contact you.

We are open to suggestions for things you want to see in the Wednesday Weekly. Could you email me at james.wade@100BMOA.org.

Dear Members,

If you wish to request the presence of the Chairman or any other Officer at your chapter or require a video message, we kindly urge you to utilize our Appearance Form. This form facilitates the process of inviting the Chairman or any other Officer within the 100 to participate in your event. We kindly request that you refrain from contacting the Chairman and other Officers directly to request their attendance at chapter events. Instead, please utilize the provided link to submit your requests.

Thank you for your cooperation.

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