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LIFESTYLE LETTER
A Different Kind of September
September 2026 PUBLISHER
Michelle Taylor Willis michelle.taylorwillis@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R
September has always felt different to me. Maybe it’s because it’s my birthday month. Maybe it’s because another year has a way of asking questions we don’t always make time to answer. This year, one question has stayed with me: What am I really leaving behind? Not what I’m building. Not what I’m buying. Not even what I’m accomplishing. What will still matter because I was here? As you read this issue, you’ll notice it’s our annual Fashion Issue. Fashion has always been about expression. It’s how we present ourselves to the world. It tells a story before we ever say a word. But after the clothes are put away, the trends have changed, and the cameras are gone, another question remains. What is your signature? Not your signature style. Your signature impact. Who is better because they crossed your path? Who have you encouraged? Who have you mentored? What opportunity did you create? What problem did you help solve? What community did you strengthen? Those are the things that never go out of style. If you’ve been following me for a while, then you know significance is my thing. Success is what we do, and it’s about us. Significance is who we are, and it’s about everybody but us. So as I celebrate another birthday, I’m taking inventory—not of the years I’ve lived, but of the lives I’ve touched. And I hope you’ll do the same. Before you turn the page, I want to leave you with one final question. What is one thing you can do today that someone will remember long after you’re gone? Maybe it’s making the phone call you’ve been putting off. Mentoring a young entrepreneur. Supporting a local business. Forgiving someone. Investing in your community. Telling someone you believe in them. Whatever it is, don’t wait. Because the most important thing you’ll ever wear isn’t your wardrobe. It’s your legacy. Here’s to living a life of significance. M I C H E L L E TAY L O R W I L L I S , P U B L I S H E R @SOFULIFESTYLE1
Erikka Searles Mitchell | emitchell@citylifestyle.com AC C O U N T M AN AG E R
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CARE YOU CAN TRUST, CLOSE TO HOME Grady’s Camp Creek Comprehensive Care Center brings trusted care to the heart of Atlanta’s southwest side. It’s our largest neighborhood health center yet – built to serve growing families, busy professionals, and seniors alike with the expert care you expect from Grady.
From primary care and lab testing to specialty services and chronic disease WHY management, we’ve got everything you need to stay healthy – all in one place, right in your neighborhood. CAMP CREEK Primary Care COMPREHENSIVE •• Adult Pediatric Care CARE CENTER? Specialty Services • Behavioral Health • Eye Exams
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inside the issue SE PTE M B E R 2 02 6 | STYL E
14 Featured
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Print Prestige Meets Digital Power.
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WHY CHOOSE BETWEEN PRESTIGE AND PLACEMENT?
Departments
FALL in Love with Bold Design
Sol1dAtlanta
Presenting Exclusive Limited Edition Urban Luxury
Miss College Park 2026
Jada Nicole Howard Crowned!
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Lifestyle Letter
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City Scene
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Business Monthly
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Trend Setter STYLE + BEAUTY
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Fashion Forward STYLE + BEAUTY
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Road Trip LIFE + CULTURE
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Local Limelight LIFE + CULTURE
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Travel Journal TRAVEL
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Education Corner EDUCATION
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On the Cover Hoodie by Trunks by PTC. Graffiti illustrations while globetrotting is the assignment! Wear this in Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport on your way to sunnier locales! This is truly #SoFuStyle! Photography: Patrick T. Cooper
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city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
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1: Academy for Innovation in Medicine held a ribbon cutting for a new building on Piedmont Road. 2: The academy is enrolling middle school students interested in pursuing careers in the medical field. 3: AIM Ribbon Cutting 5: CEO and AIM Founder Dr. Kristy Beam
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SEPTEMBER 2026
business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S
“Purpose” at Alliance Theatre Opens the 58th season Written by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins and directed by Keith Arthur Bolden, “Purpose” tells the story of the Jasper family, the embodiment of Black political power and public virtue. Over the course of one unforgettable evening, old wounds reopen, loyalties are tested, and the truth threatens to upend everything the family has built. This production runs on The Coca-Cola Stage, Aug. 28 – Sept. 20. Opening night is Friday, Sept. 4. Veanna Black is pictured at left.
Scan to read more
Atlanta Airport Rotary Club Honors First Responders at Appreciation Luncheon The Atlanta Airport Rotary Club proudly hosted its Annual First Responders Appreciation Luncheon, bringing together community leaders, elected officials, business partners, and residents to recognize the extraordinary service and sacrifice of the police officers and firefighters who protect South Metro Atlanta. Held at the Kimpton Overland Hotel, they celebrated the finest from six local jurisdictions, including City of Atlanta Department of Aviation, College Park, East Point, Forest Park, Hapeville, and City of South Fulton.
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“Hamilton” Returns to the Fox Theatre “Hamilton” will play in a two-week engagement at the Fox Theatre from Sept. 2-20 as the first show in the 2026/2027 Regions Bank Broadway in Atlanta season. “Hamilton” is the epic saga that follows the rise of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton as he fights for honor, love, and a legacy that would shape the course of a nation. “Hamilton” features book, music, and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda.
Scan to read more Photography by Joan Marcus
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FALL in Love with Bold Design
As the seasons shift and crisp autumn days begin to unfold, so does the opportunity to redefine your personal style. This curated collection celebrates visionary designers, artisans, and creators whose work proves that fashion is more than what we wear. It is an expression of purpose, craftsmanship, and individuality.
From statement accessories and signature fragrances to timeless apparel and inspired home st yle, each selection was chosen to elevate your season. Consider this your invitation to “Fall” in love with bold design, exceptional talent, and the art of dressing with intention.
ARTICLE BY PATRICK T. COOPER
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T R E N D SE T T E R | STYL E + BE AU T Y
Eyewear ANWULI EYEWEAR Design, comfort, and representation is the intersection where Dr. Nwamaka Ngoddy begins her legacy in optometry. Bold designs with a mindset that eyewear is not a one-size-fitsall moment, Anwuli sees the future in a bright season of international purpose. Let's see this fall illuminated by culture and clinical expertise. Price $175.00 - $350.00 Available at https://anwulieyewear.com.
Hoodie TRUNKS BY PTC Get ready to take a walk on the "Wild Side" in Trunks by PTC. Graffiti illustrations while globetrotting is the assignment. This FALL, as you board aircraft to escape the cold climate, snuggle in these BOLD prints, sure to be a conversation starter throughout any airport terminal. Price $49.99 Available at https:// trunksbyptc.com.
Handbag WALTER CALVIN Not just any bag. The Legacy Satchel is built on legacy, craftsmanship, and purpose. Inspired by values of integrity, education, and service, the brand was built on three pillars: legacy, craftsmanship, and purpose. Walter Calvin's inaugural collection is rooted in namesakes that reflect refined silhouettes. Don't FALL into making the mistake of choosing name brands that are not centered on craftsmanship. Be the torch that burns a new pathway in style! Price $1475.00 Available at https://waltercalvin.com.
Cape JOLIE JORDAN ITALIAN FRINGE STUDDED CAPE Designer contemporary to custom leather silhouettes, Lori Land-Lastra continually elevates style for men and women alike. However, this Italian cape deserves a red carpet standing ovation. Be it a trip to Aspen or just scooting around Atlanta, you will be elegantly appointed for the occasion. Leather for any type of weather, and this fall is no exception! Price $1200.00 Available at https://joliejordan.com/
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Jewelry KZNOEL "OK, fantastic, my love," are the words your mate will speak when they adorn the artistic interpretation of designer KZ Noel. Perhaps the Fall galas will present the opportunity to display this custom, one-of-akind dangle of opulence. Diamonds, emeralds, and pink tourmaline set in oxidized sterling silver. Price Available Upon Request Available at https://kznoel.com.
Book STYLE MADE SIMPLE: 10 TIPS TO DECORATING WITH STYLE Eric Samuel Green defines style. For the novice or ill-informed, consider yourself supercharged for FALL. This fall, you don't have to guess or be led astray by alleged experts. I am an authority offering you first-hand expertise from a genius. Grab this read and elevate your personal sanctuary. Price $20.00 Available at https://www.amazon.com/StyleMade-Simple-Tips-Decorating/dp/1986587738
Fragrance
Pant RYE 51 Price: TBD Available at https://rye51.com/
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LEIƏR Fall definitely presents that time to layer. So, why not LEIƏR (pronounced "layer") with creator Bria Bryant? From dewy pear to bergamot, this collection reflects a myriad of notes. Rejecting the concept of fragrance as adornment, the brand functions as a modern scent system designed to be worn alone or layered. Beyond the scent, this brand is laserfocused on what they can sustain, with 10% of every sale flowing through The Dweller Foundation to support climate resilience and humanitarian relief for marginalized communities. Let's RISE, RESIST, REBEL, and perhaps make it REIGN this FALL! Price $55.00 - $111.00 Available at https://leierfragrances.com.
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SOL1DATLANTA Presenting Exclusive Limited Edition Urban Luxury ARTICLE BY JALEN HENDERSON PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
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FASH ION F OR WA R D | STYLE + BE AU T Y
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2026 Essence Festival of Culture
A RECAP BY SOFU WRITER JASMINE TIFFANY AND CHIEF OF STAFF CAROL MANGUM ARTICLE BY JASMINE TIFFANY AND CAROL MANGUM
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MORE THAN A FESTIVAL: HOW ESSENCE BECAME AMERICA’S FAMILY REUNION BY JASMINE TIFFANY
Every July, New Orleans becomes the cultural heartbeat of Black America. It becomes a homecoming. A reunion. A sacred space where Black culture isn’t just celebrated; it’s centered, protected, and amplified in ways that feel both deeply personal and profoundly collective. And that’s the true purpose of ESSENCE Festival. Yes, there are chart-topping performances and unforgettable celebrity moments. But at its core, ESSENCE
is about something far greater: creating a space where Black voices are heard, Black stories are honored, and Black futures are imagined without limitation. It begins in the streets, where the Mardi Gras Indians’ procession moves with pride and purpose. Generations of tradition come alive, and it’s a reminder that culture isn’t something you consume. It’s something you inherit, nurture, and pass on. Inside the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, that purpose deepens. The energy shifts from celebration to conversation, from performance to empowerment. CONTINUED >
“What makes ESSENCE Festival truly captivating isn’t just what happens on stage; it’s what happens within you. The conversations that spark new ideas. The sense of belonging that stays long after the weekend ends. ESSENCE Festival isn’t just an event; it’s a movement.”
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Panels aren’t just discussions; they’re moments of truth. Mara Brock Akil and Sherri Shepherd speak candidly about ownership and identity, while Tayari Jones explores the emotional layers of family and belonging. When Michelle Obama and Keke Palmer take the stage, the room doesn’t just listen, it leans in. Their dialogue felt intimate, like a conversation shared among generations, rooted in resilience, purpose, and possibility. Nearby, Dr. Bernice A. King and Dr. Ilyasah Shabazz remind attendees that legacy isn’t something we wait for; it’s something we actively build. Then there’s the Marketplace, where purpose meets power. Black-owned businesses line the aisles, each brand representing its products and vision. From beauty empires to handcrafted heirlooms like Kim Alexis Newton’s quilts, every booth tells a story of perseverance, creativity, and community investment. In the evening, the celebration continues inside the Caesars Superdome. With Latto, Kehlani, Cardi B, and more igniting the crowd with energy, Brandy and Monica delivered a nostalgic, soul-stirring performance that brings generations together in song. It’s joy, memory, and connection all wrapped into one unforgettable experience. But what makes ESSENCE Festival truly captivating isn’t just what happens on stage; it’s what happens within you. The conversations that spark new ideas. The sense of belonging that stays long after the weekend ends. ESSENCE Festival isn’t just an event; it’s a movement. A living, breathing reflection of Black culture in all its brilliance, complexity, and beauty. And once you experience it, you don’t just attend. You return.
EMPOWERING PURPOSE THROUGH LEADERSHIP, FAITH, AND TRANSFORMATION BY CAROL MANGUM
Some conversations do more than inspire. They ignite possibility, strengthen purpose, and remind us that leadership is most impactful when it is rooted in authenticity and faith. Carol Mangum recently had the privilege of moderating the Faith and Entrepreneurship panel during the Glambitious All White Brunch at the Essence Festival of Culture in New Orleans. Hosted by visionary entrepreneur Lillie Mae, founder of the Glambitious Brand, the event brought together five accomplished women entrepreneurs who shared powerful perspectives on building businesses with courage, resilience, and unwavering faith. Together, the panel explored the realities of entrepreneurship, from making difficult decisions and developing
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intentional daily habits to overcoming challenges, embracing uncertainty, and trusting God’s direction throughout every season. While each woman shared her own unique journey, one message resonated throughout the conversation: True success is built on purpose, perseverance, and faith. Serving as moderator allowed Mangum to do what she is most passionate about: creating space for authentic conversations that empower people to think differently, lead intentionally, and leave transformed. She also had the opportunity to share her own entrepreneurial journey, reflecting on how faith has remained her foundation through career transitions, leadership opportunities, and the continued growth of Empower 3sixty by CM. That experience reflects the very heart of Empower 3sixty by CM. Empower 3sixty was created to help individuals, leaders, and organizations move beyond potential and into purposeful action. Through executive coaching, leadership development, strategic consulting, and designing transformational experiences, we help people strengthen their leadership, align with their purpose, and create meaningful, lasting impact. Whether in a boardroom, on a conference stage, or within the communities we serve, our mission remains the same: to empower growth, drive change, and achieve excellence. This year has provided incredible opportunities to live that mission in action. In addition to moderating at Essence Festival, Empower 3sixty has partnered on transformational experiences including serving as site coordinator and host for the Atlanta stops of Dr. Zeb Talley III’s Self Awareness Tour, leading volunteer teams, coordinating event execution, and creating memorable audience experiences. Most recently, Mangum also served as Production Manager for the 2026 Legends Ball and continues to serve as Chief of Staff for Gagnant Media, helping bring impactful community initiatives to life. “I am deeply grateful to Lillie Mae and the entire Glambitious Brand for creating a platform that celebrates women, amplifies purpose-driven leadership, and fosters meaningful dialogue that extends far beyond the stage. It was an honor to guide a conversation that encouraged entrepreneurs to lead boldly, build faithfully, and pursue success without compromising their values,” she says. “Because every transformation begins with one decision: the decision to believe that where you are today does not have to define where you are capable of going tomorrow.” For those ready to elevate, evolve, and lead at the next level, connect with Carol Mangum of Empower 3sixty by CM at www.carolmangum.com.
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Ran'de Walker 1st Runnerup Miss College Park 2026, Jada Nicole Howard Miss College Park 2026, Christina Eason 2nd Runnerup Miss College Park 2026
MISS COLLEGE PARK 2026 Jada Nicole Howard Crowned!
ARTICLE BY JOLENE BUTTS FREEMAN
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History was made in the city of College Park as brilliance, beauty, leadership, and purpose took center stage during the Miss College Park Pageant.
State Representative Rhonda Burnough Georgia State House District 77 Jada Nicole Howard Miss College Park 2026 Councilwoman Tracie Arnold, Ward 3
Under the leadership of Councilwoman Tracie Arnold, Ward 3, five outstanding contestants took the stage at the Georgia International Convention Center, showcasing their talents, sharing advocacy platforms, and demonstrating their commitment to service as they competed for the coveted title. The pageant was created to empower women to embrace leadership, civic engagement, and excellence while serving as ambassadors for the city of College Park. At the conclusion of the competition, Jada Nicole Howard was crowned Miss College Park 2026. A native of Macon, Georgia, Howard is an entrepreneur, executive administrative professional, actress, singer, spoken word artist, and passionate community advocate. A graduate of Georgia Southern University with a degree in communication, she is the founder of Jada Nicole, LLC, where she provides operational support to nonprofit organizations, entrepreneurs, and small businesses. Through her work with organizations such as the Mary Parker Foundation, TREF Legacy Center,
and The Living Legends Foundation, Howard has championed scholarship initiatives, youth development, and community outreach. Her career has also included appearances in productions such as “A Madea Family Funeral,” “Greenleaf,” “The Vampire Diaries,” and “Genius: Aretha,” while using her gifts in music and spoken word to inspire audiences to lead with confidence and purpose. “This pageant was about much more than a crown,” said Councilwoman Arnold. “It celebrated the importance of developing leaders, celebrating excellence, and creating opportunities for young women to use their voices and to inspire positive change throughout our community. “Congratulations to Jada Howard, our Miss College Park; she represents intelligence, grace, service, and leadership and will serve our city with distinction,” Arnold said. “I am extraordinarily proud of every contestant who participated in the pageant. Each young lady displayed their own unique talents and represented themselves and their families very well.” CONTINUED > S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S O F U
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“It celebrated the importance of developing leaders, celebrating excellence, and creating opportunities for young women to use their voices and to inspire positive change throughout our community.”
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The pageant was coordinated by Tiffane Nicol, Founder and Executive Director of Style Mobb University, the first and only nationally accredited cosmetology university with an HBCU culture, and Aungelique Proctor of FOX 5 Atlanta served as the event’s mistress of ceremonies. Other pageant partners are listed below: • State Representative Rhonda Burnough, Georgia State House District 77
• Clayton County Chairwoman, Dr. Alieka Anderson-Henry • Clayton County Municipal Association (CCMA) • Twanna Brown, Twanna Party Planning • Learning Innovation Alliance • Georgia International Convention Center (GICC) The Miss College Park Pageant was spectacular! In case you missed it, check out the video on the city of College Park Facebook page or visit MissCollegeParkGA.com.
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The Perfect Napa Girls Weekend
ARTICLE BY TOMEKA JONES
Sip, Spa, Smile, and Repeat: 30
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Three women in our 40s, 50s, and 70s embarked on the first family girls’ getaway together, and Napa Valley did not disappoint. Here’s how the destination became the perfect blend of exceptional food, wine, wellness, and quality time with my stepmom and stepsister. Our first stop was lunch at Stateline Road Smokehouse, Napa’s first Blackowned restaurant. From the moment we walked in, the staff greeted us with warm hospitality and patience as we debated what to order from the Kansas Cityinspired barbecue menu. Yes, there are many tempting options, from burnt ends and brisket to Rancho Gordo beans and greens, and Yukon Gold potato salad. But I couldn’t resist the chicken and waffles. It turned out to be one of the best waffles I have ever had. The waffle was crispy and flavorful while the chicken thighs were, quite simply, chef’s kiss. A special moment during our visit was meeting Chef and co-owner Darryl Bell, who shared his passion for bringing authentic BBQ to Napa Valley. We stayed at The Meritage Resort & Spa (MeritageResort.com), a beautiful resort where we spent most of our 48-hour getaway together. Between indulging in the seared salmon salad with a side of fries, along with a Mimosa Margarita at Olive & Hay and strolling the resort’s picturesque vineyard, we were truly living our best lives. Each night, we lounged around our spacious two-bedroom suite in matching pajamas, talking and laughing long after sunset. One night, we even found ourselves enjoying the live music from the Blue Note Summer Sessions concert happening just below our balcony. CONTINUED >
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Now, you can’t visit Napa without at least one wine-tasting experience. We chose Brown Estate, Napa Valley’s first Black-owned estate winery, and visited its gorgeous tasting room in downtown Napa. We ordered the Furthermore Flight, which included four wine tastings for $50. Every pour was delicious, but my personal favorite was the House of Brown Rosé—so smooth, light, and refreshing. Beyond experiencing Black excellence on my palate, I appreciated learning about the Brown family’s history and their contributions to Napa Valley’s wine industry since 1980. No girls’ getaway is complete without a little pampering. We prioritized our time to unwind at Spa Terra, The Meritage’s onsite spa, located inside an underground estate cave. In celebration of the resort’s 20th anniversary, we treated ourselves to the Turning of the Vines Body Treatment, the special of the month, featuring a body scrub followed by an antioxidant-rich body mask inspired by the time of year when Napa’s grapes begin their transformation. By the end of the experience, all three of us agreed it was exactly the reset we needed. The best part of our Napa Valley escape wasn’t the award-winning wine, incredible food, or rejuvenating spa treatments. It was the uninterrupted time we shared together. Our first girls’ trip became more than a weekend getaway—it marked the beginning of a new family tradition. For more travel stories, follow @travelinstylewithtomeka on IG.
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ARTICLE BY SHANDRA HILL SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIM EVANS
Largest Graduating Class in 4 Years and Kicking Off Fall 2026!
Morris Brown College Morris Brown College kicked off its Fall 2026 start in mid-August with a continuously growing enrollment — as it gears up for the school’s Oct. 3 homecoming, and on the heels of celebrating a host of achievements. This includes graduating its largest class in nearly four years. In May, the college celebrated Commencement for its largest graduating class (93 scholars) since the school regained accreditation in 2022, after a 20-year loss of accreditation. Eighty-one percent of Morris Brown’s 2026 graduates finished with honors. Also, more than 90% of the 2026 graduates have a job, a job offer or have been admitted to graduate school, with some being accepted to Ivy League institutions. In addition, this spring Morris Brown College received reaffirmation of accreditation for five years through 2031.
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