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Community: The True Return on Investment

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What’s Up Inside:

Featured Content:

10.

16.

20.

42.

NAACP: New Leadership

Tommy’s Diner: Michael Pappas Has Done a Wonderful Job of Maintaining the Legacy

2026 Class of Extraordinary Men

Chief Bryant’s Positive Impact

18. Atlanta and the Art of Possibility

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46. Artist Spotlight: Copacetic

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FOUNDER/PUBLISHER C. Sunny Martin ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Alisha Martin alishaclara1@gmail.com DIRECTOR OF CLIENT EXPERIENCE, PARTNER Ajah Potts ajahpotts614@gmail.com OFFICIAL PHOTOGRAPHER Clique Photography DIRECTOR OF SPECIAL PROJECTS Steve Clark DIRECTOR OF MEDIA OUTREACH Brianna McNary CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Monica Lehman GRAPHIC PRODUCTION JPS Print www.jprintshop.com EDITORIAL BOARD ADVISORS Roger D. Blackwell, PhD. Alisha Martin Sean Grant Melinda Carter MAHOGANY CENTER STAGE PRODUCTION HOST Jerry Revish VIDEO/PODCAST PRODUCTION The Dreamcatchers Production ADVERTISING INQUIRES Sunny@CSunnyMartin.com Phone: 614-937-3390 EVENT NEWS/PRESS RELEASES Sunny@CSunnyMartin.com

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Mahogany Media Group LLC publishes Six (6) Issues a Year, January/February March/ April, May/June, July/August, September/October, November/ December All contents of this magazine are copyrighted© 2026 Mahogany Media Group LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use without permission of any editorial or graphic content in any manner is strictly prohibited. Publisher assumes no responsibility whatsoever for return of unsolicited articles or materials. Our address is 1445 Goodale Blvd. Columbus, Ohio 43212. Periodical postage paid at Columbus, Ohio.

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Our Purpose. Our Legacy. Our Commitment.

very issue of Mahogany Columbus begins with a simple belief: every community has people whose stories deserve to be seen, celebrated, and remembered.

Mahogany was founded on that belief by my father, C. Sunny Martin—a visionary publisher, entrepreneur, and community leader who dedicated his life’s work to ensuring that the accomplishments, leadership, and excellence within our communities would never go unnoticed. His legacy continues to guide every page we produce and every story we choose to tell. Today, that mission remains unchanged. We exist to celebrate the leaders, innovators, educators, entrepreneurs, artists, public servants, and everyday difference-makers who are shaping Central Ohio. Through intentional storytelling, we hope not only to recognize achievement, but to inspire the next generation to see what is possible. This issue proudly recognizes our 2026 Men of Influence—men whose leadership extends far beyond titles and accomplishments. They lead with integrity, create opportunities for others, strengthen families, build businesses, mentor young people, and leave a lasting impact throughout our community. Influence is not measured by status or recognition. It is measured by service, consistency, character,

and the lives we help improve. The men featured in these pages embody those qualities and remind us that true leadership is rooted in purpose and responsibility. At Mahogany Columbus, we believe recognition matters because representation matters. When we intentionally highlight excellence within our own communities, we preserve history, strengthen connections, and create a record of achievement that future generations can look to with pride. As you read this issue, we encourage you to celebrate those featured while also considering the individuals in your own life who quietly lead, serve, and inspire others every day. Communities grow stronger when we intentionally recognize one another and invest in the people who make them thrive. Thank you for continuing to support Mahogany Columbus and for believing in the power of storytelling. Together, we will continue honoring excellence, preserving legacy, and shining a light on the remarkable people who make our community extraordinary. Here’s to another year of celebrating those who lead with purpose and leave a legacy worth remembering.

tin r a M Alisha ublisher

P Associate

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NAACP: New Leadership

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he Columbus Branch of the NAACP enters a new season with charged up group of people who’ve decided to stand together un-waivered by setbacks. After more than 500 days of branch administration, new leadership rises not as a uniform ideology, but as a

coalition of conscience: thought leaders and change agents, activists and academics, pastors and politicians, Democrats, Republicans, independents, and progressives — united by a single belief that justice belongs to all of us, or it will eventually belong to none of us. Incoming President Sean Walton has been clear from the beginning:

the purpose of leadership isn’t to hoard power, but to distribute it for the benefit of the people the branch serves. That vision matters now because the times we’re in demand more than symbolism. They demand structure, courage, and collective action. Across this nation, we’re witnessing attempts to narrow the meaning of what democracy

PAGE 14 means. Voting rights protections are under assault. Diversity and inclusion efforts are being dismantled. Black public servants, educators, and civil rights safeguards are being pushed aside while economic insecurity deepens for working families. In Columbus, we’ve watched hate march openly in our streets. We’ve seen fear weaponized and division ignites distraction. But we know the deeper truth: it is not political party that divides us. Our greatest enemy is apathy — the dangerous temptation to believe that our voices no longer matter. They do.

institution-building. Through legislative advocacy, legal strategy, and grassroots organizing, it has remained one of the nation’s most effective civil rights organizations. The Columbus branch’s new leadership understands something equally important: awareness without organization can’t secure permanent change. That’s why under Sean’s leadership, he’s using the NAACP framework to empower 21 officers — experts in their respective fields — to help transform protest into policy, outrage into action, and hope into durable reform. This branch is committed to mobilizing voices, and build systems that protect Black communities and all marginalized people long

It’s going to take more than one court battle, petitions ,protests and phone calls to tame the tide we’re facing. But history has never been changed by silence. History changes when ordinary people decide that doing nothing is no longer acceptable. The moment we think we have no power- we lose it. To surrender our influence is to abandon our communities to the whims of a small and fearful few.

after the Dispatch’s headlines fade.

The NAACP has endured for more than a century because it understands both resistance and

We also understand that we need the community

We’re not going to surrender joy or our humanity. We believe in collaboration, self-determination, civic engagement, grassroots organizing, and the obligation to care for one another. Each member of this new leadership team believes a movement is strongest when every person can find their role within it.

PAGE 15 to find roles where they can use their gifts. Some can write letters. Some can organize phone banks. Some will march. Some can mentor. Some can donate treasure where they can’t give time. Every contribution matters because every person matters. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. reminded us: “Power at its best is love implementing the demands of justice, and justice at its best is power correcting everything that stands against love.”

Sean Walton, Jr.-President W. Kay Wilson-1st VP (of Community Development & Equity) Charity Martin-King2nd VP (of Engagement & Empowerment) Jaquan Yawn- 3rd VP (of Accountability & Justice)

That’s the work before us now.

Nadia Howard Brown-Secretary

We fight to deepen voting rights protections and federal civil rights legislation. We fight to remove white supremacy from every level of government and civic life. We fight to imagine a nation that isn’t governed by cruelty or indifference, but by systems of care that transform our neighborhoods, city, county, state, and country into places where all people can live with dignity. We fight to empower and uplift our youth-teaching them, they are somebody and they have contributions that will make this world better.

Ibrahima Sow-Assistant Secretary

Most of all, we fight for each other. Because at the end of the day, we’ve got us. And that is why we will rise and hope you will join us.

Shaquille Alexander-Treasurer Mo McGee-Assistant Treasurer Charles Hillman-MEMBERS-AT-LARGE Randy Burley-MEMBERS-AT-LARGE Rodney Blount-MEMBERS-AT-LARGE Janet Jackson-MEMBERS-AT-LARGE Bo Chilton-MEMBERS-AT-LARGE Dr. Tiffany Polite-MEMBERS-AT-LARGE

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Honoring a Legacy, Building a Future: Trinity Baptist Church Brings the Scarborough Senior Housing Community to Life

By Níel M. Jurist, APR he sign has stood outside Trinity Baptist Church since the congregation put down roots on Saint Clair Avenue nearly a century ago.

an empty lot, and construction fencing carries the names of the people helping build what comes next. Neighbors see it every day. Drivers slow down. People stop to ask questions.

“Compelling the world to salvation and discipleship.” Established in 1924. Dr. Victor M. Davis, Senior Pastor.

What is rising across from one of Columbus’ historic Black churches is not a luxury development or speculative investment. It is the Scarborough Senior Housing Community, 84 units of affordable housing for adults 62 and older, developed by the same church that has served this community since Calvin Coolidge was president.

Directly across the street, a new message is taking shape. Heavy equipment moves across the site. A drill rig reaches into the sky. Gravel covers what was once

PAGE 19 Trinity broke ground in January 2026. Construction is underway. Completion is expected in early 2027.

in the completed development. That distinction matters.

“The ministry of the church is not just spiritual,” said Pastor Dr. Victor M. Davis. “We must provide resources for the whole person: mind, body, soul, and human rights. We are honored to be good stewards of this property, which will remain owned by the church, and proud that this project will strengthen our community for generations to come.”

The church is not simply making land available. It is preserving community ownership, creating a longterm asset, and making certain that the benefits of this investment remain connected to the institution and the neighborhood that made it possible.

The project honors Rev. Dr. N. L. Scarborough, Trinity’s third pastor and the first Black mayor of Bronzeville, who led the congregation through the Great Depression and helped establish a tradition of faith-based leadership and civil rights advocacy that continues today. That legacy shaped more than just the name. The Scarborough will offer income-restricted one and two-bedroom apartments for seniors earning between 30% and 80% of Area Median Income. The development is supported by a $9 million HUD Section 202 capital grant, along with public and private investment, bringing the total project cost to $29 million. Through its community development corporation, Revival Development Corporation, Trinity will retain ownership of the land and maintain an ownership stake

The development team reflects the same philosophy. National Church Residences, the nation’s largest provider of senior housing and resident services, serves as a core partner. Ray Nix of Nix Development, a Black-owned firm with more than 1,500 residential units in its portfolio, is leading project coordination. Attorney and housing finance strategist Lark T. Mallory of Mallory Economic Development Advisors, a Black woman-owned firm, is providing strategic counsel to protect the church’s long-term stewardship interests. Moody Nolan Architects, a nationally recognized Black-owned firm, designed the project. Even the construction fence tells a story. From design through construction, the partnership intentionally created opportunities for minority-owned businesses, reflecting Trinity’s commitment not only to housing but also to economic mobility and community wealth-building. “Within the first minute of our initial meeting, Pastor Davis introduced himself and immediately launched into a powerful, heart-led vision for expanding Trinity’s ministerial reach far beyond its walls and deep into the community,” said Ray Nix, President of Nix Development. “The selfless decision to activate a portion of Trinity’s campus for the public good speaks volumes about the church’s courage, character, and devotion to its mission.” “This project illustrates what is possible when faith, vision, and economic strategy come together,” Dr. Davis said. “We are not only building housing. We are building legacy.” On Saint Clair Avenue, that legacy is becoming visible. The church sign still stands on one side of the street. Across from it, the future is already taking shape. Trinity Baptist Church is located at 461 Saint Clair Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43203. For more information about this project, visit trinitycolumbuscares.org.

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Atlanta and the Art of Possibility By Tyler Clodfelter

hat happens when young people are given the opportunity and exposure to see success that looks like them? What can students absorb when they step outside their everyday surroundings and experience something new? More specifically, what can their future become? Those questions were answered firsthand when a cohort of Black students from the city of Columbus traveled to Atlanta, Georgia, in early April. There, they witnessed the power of representation and experienced what it looks like to thrive in spaces built on excellence, leadership, and opportunity. But where did it all start, and how did this experience become possible? The journey began with The Student Stakeholders, a program founded by CEO Anthony King. The mission of the program is to elevate student voices by recognizing students as “primary stakeholders in education” and placing them at the center of decision-making. The organization envisions an educational ecosystem where student initiatives drive equity and excellence, empowering young people to make meaningful impacts in their schools and communities. This experience brought together three programs: Lead the Way Learning Academy, St. Stephen’s Community House, and City of Grace. These groups were represented by students and dedicated mentors, who played an important role in guiding and encouraging them throughout the trip. Upon arriving in Atlanta, the experience began with an unforgettable matchup between the Atlanta Hawks and the New York Knicks, which foreshadowed their playoff series later that month. Students and mentors were met with immediate excitement as cheerleaders and the team mascot energized fans entering the arena, creating an atmosphere filled with anticipation and energy. Students also observed the many careers that make a professional sports organization run, including roles in marketing, technology, media, and leadership. The next day, the journey continued with visits to Georgia State University and the Georgia Institute of Technology, where students were

PAGE 21 introduced to new academic environments and career possibilities. Both campuses are located near downtown Atlanta, giving students a firsthand look at urban college life. As they walked through each campus, students were able to envision themselves in these spaces and better understand the opportunities that come with pursuing higher education. Between campus visits, the students stopped at Centennial Olympic Park, where Ms. Martin shared the significance of the park to the city of Atlanta. She explained how the 22-acre downtown landmark, built for the 1996 Summer Olympics, welcomed more than 2 million visitors during its opening summer. Martin also highlighted the realities of Atlanta’s thriving Black communities, home to Black lawyers, doctors, entrepreneurs, and many other professionals whose success reflects the possibilities available to future generations. The trip then deepened students’ connection to Black history through visits to Morehouse College and Spelman College. These institutions allowed students to see the power of representation firsthand while being surrounded by the legacy of leaders and changemakers who came before them. At Morehouse, the young men learned about the values of brotherhood, service, and leadership. At Spelman, the young women experienced a culture centered on empowerment, academic excellence, and supportive learning environments. The final stop took place at the Atlanta Community Food Bank, where students participated in community service and learned the importance of giving back. Together, they helped prepare 8,820 meals for Atlanta neighbors in need. The experience reinforced the idea that leadership is not only about personal success, but also about using one’s time and talents to make a positive impact on others. Through each experience in Atlanta, students gained a new understanding of what is possible when opportunity and exposure come together. The trip became more than a visit; it became a “see you for now,” as many of the students left envisioning themselves returning one day to pursue their goals and build their futures there.

Success Isn’t Meant to Be Silent Ajah Potts Director of Client Experience, Mahogany Columbus

oo often, remarkable people accomplish extraordinary things quietly. They earn the promotion, launch the business, lead the nonprofit, mentor the next generation, or transform their communities without ever sharing the journey that got them there. While humility is admirable, silence comes at a cost. When we don’t tell our stories, we unintentionally leave others wondering if success is possible for them. Every accomplishment has a beginning, a first opportunity, a setback, a mentor, a lesson learned, or a leap of faith. Those moments are just as valuable as the achievement itself because they remind someone else that greatness isn’t reserved for a select few. It’s built through perseverance, resilience, and the willingness to keep moving forward. Representation matters, but storytelling gives representation its power. Seeing someone who looks like you in a position of influence is inspiring. Hearing how they overcame obstacles, navigated

challenges, and remained committed to their purpose is transformational. That’s why platforms like Mahogany Columbus exist. We believe stories do more than celebrate success they preserve history, strengthen community, and inspire the next generation of leaders. Every entrepreneur, educator, executive, artist, and community advocate we feature leaves behind more than a headline. They leave behind a blueprint. As you read this issue highlighting some of Central Ohio’s most influential men, we encourage you to look beyond the titles and accolades. Pay attention to the journeys, the lessons, and the values that shaped these leaders. Then ask yourself: What story am I writing with my own life? Because success was never meant to be hidden. Your experiences, your victories, and even your setbacks have the power to encourage someone you’ve never met. The stories we choose to tell today become the inspiration that helps someone else believe tomorrow is possible.

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We Salute

Our 2026 Class of

Extraordinary Men

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ome people discover their purpose early in life. Others spend years searching for it. For me, entrepreneurship was never a carefully planned career path. It was a journey fueled by curiosity, resilience, and a passion for bringing people together. Growing up in South Linden on the north side of Columbus, I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to become. What I did know was that I loved music, people, and the energy created when communities came together. Those early experiences shaped not only my career but also my commitment to creating opportunities for others. While I was in college, I promoted my first event and soon produced my first concert in Louisville, Kentucky. Financially, it wasn’t successful, but it changed my life.

far more than what’s happening on stage. It’s about creating memories, strengthening communities, and giving people a reason to come together. That philosophy eventually led me into hospitality with the opening of my first venue in 2005, which evolved into ICON and other ventures throughout Columbus. It also inspired signature events like SUMMER614 and 614 Funk Fest. Celebrations of music, culture, and community that create economic impact while showcasing the best of our city. As my career evolved, so did my sense of purpose. Through the 22nd Foundation, I work to expand opportunities for young people through education, mentorship, sports, and community engagement. I also launched Music Is Therapy 614 after realizing that music does more than entertain;

Bobby Ferguson

Executive Director, 22nd Foundation

Where others saw a setback, I saw possibility. I became fascinated by the business of entertainment and the power of live events to connect people. Over the next three decades, that passion grew into a career spanning concert promotion, festival production, hospitality, venue development, and community engagement. Along the way, I have sold more than two million tickets, worked with hundreds of artists, and helped create experiences that have brought millions of people together throughout Columbus and the Midwest. A turning point came when I promoted a Ginuwine concert at the Palace Theatre and later began producing large-scale events at Cooper Stadium. Those experiences taught me to think bigger and reinforced an important lesson: entertainment is about

it heals, connects, and gives people hope. Looking back, I realize my entrepreneurial journey has never really been about selling tickets or opening businesses. Those accomplishments are simply milestones along a much larger mission. My work has always been about creating experiences, building community, opening doors, and proving that where you start does not determine where you finish. South Linden taught me resilience. Entertainment taught me vision. Entrepreneurship taught me perseverance. Community taught me purpose. Those lessons continue to guide me as I work to leave Columbus stronger, more connected, and filled with greater opportunity for future generations.

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he 100 Black Men of Central Ohio has truly been on fire, experiencing renewed energy, growth, and impact under the leadership of Mr. Brian Winston. With a clear vision, unwavering passion, and a commitment to excellence, Mr. Winston has helped position the organization as one of Central Ohio’s leading mentoring and community service organizations dedicated to empowering youth and strengthening families. Mr. Brian Winston is a respected community leader, mentor, and youth advocate who has dedicated his life to creating opportunities and positive outcomes within underserved communities. He currently serves as the President of 100 Black Men of Central

Director of Retention Services for Franklin County Treasurer Cheryl Brooks Sullivan, where he works closely with residents to help them navigate resources. In addition to his professional leadership, he also serves as the Associate Pastor at Traveler’s Rest Missionary Baptist Church in the Linden community. Mr. Winston has devoted much of his career to youth advocacy and community engagement. He is also the founder of the DREAM Mentoring Program, an initiative focused on empowering youth through mentorship, leadership development, accountability, and life skills training. Born and raised in Youngstown, Ohio, Mr. Winston is the third of five children born to Mr. and Mrs. Donald Winston. He is a

Brian Winston

Director of Retention Services, Franklin County Treasurer’s Office Ohio, Inc., where he leads the organization and its mission to improve the quality of life in local communities and enhance educational and economic opportunities for African Americans. Through innovative programming and strategic partnerships, the organization continues to impact youth and families through mentorship, leadership development, and civic engagement, health and wellness initiatives, and economic empowerment programs. Under Mr. Winston’s leadership, the chapter has expanded its reach and visibility throughout Central Ohio by launching and strengthening impactful initiatives designed to inspire the next generation of leaders. His leadership style is rooted in service, accountability, compassion, and the belief that mentorship can transform lives and communities. Professionally, Mr. Winston serves as the

proud United States Navy Veteran and attended Youngstown State University and Missouri Baptist Bible College. Mr. Winston currently resides in Columbus, Ohio with his wife, Patrice, of more than 30 years. Together, they have three adult children and are grandparents of nine grandchildren. In his spare time, he enjoys Golfing, traveling and cheering for the Pittsburgh Steelers. His Favorite quote is Dr. King “Everybody can be great, because everybody can serve.”

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY PURPLE STAR PHOTOGRAPHY

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r. Derek H. Anderson serves as the Assistant Director of Programs for the City of Columbus Department of Neighborhoods, where he provides strategic leadership for community engagement initiatives and cross-sector partnerships designed to enhance the quality of life for residents throughout the city. He oversees major initiatives including My Brother’s Keeper Columbus, the New American Program, the Commission on Black Girls, the Community Relations Commission, and Rise Up CBUS!, ensuring that programs are equitable, resident-centered, and impactful. A respected leader in public service and community development, Dr. Anderson

selection as a 40 Under 40 honoree by Rejuvenate Magazine. In recognition of his commitment to justice and leadership, he was inducted into the Board of Sponsors of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel at Morehouse College. He is also a member of the Ohio Association of Commodores, a graduate fellow of Leadership Ohio and the African American Leadership Academy, and a graduate of the FBI Citizens Academy. Dr. Anderson has served the African Methodist Episcopal Church at every level of the denomination. He currently serves as Pro Tem of the Trustee Board at Historic St. Paul AME Church in Columbus, Ohio. He dedicated twelve years to the AME Church Board of Trustees and served ten years as

Dr. Derek H. Anderson

Assistant Director of Programs, City of Columbus, Department of Neighborhoods

has dedicated his career to advancing equity, strengthening neighborhoods, and promoting meaningful civic engagement. He previously served as Chairman of the Environmental Health Sciences Advisory Board for The Ohio State University College of Public Health and as a member of the National Diversity Expertise Panel for the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), helping shape inclusive workplace practices and organizational culture. His commitment to public service also includes serving as Chairman of the Franklin County Alcohol, Drug and Mental Health (ADAMH) Board, where he provided governance and strategic oversight for behavioral health services throughout the county. His leadership and service have earned numerous distinctions, including recognition in Who’s Who in Black Columbus and

International President of the Richard Allen Young Adult Council. Elected to the Judicial Council—the highest court of the AME Church—at the 50th General Conference, he currently serves as Secretary of the Council. Dr. Anderson holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Marshall University and both a Master of Religious Leadership and Doctor of Ministry degree from Payne Theological Seminary. He also is a graduate of the Duke University Executive Leadership Program for Water Resource Management.

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ome memories stay with us because they shape who we become.

For State Representative Dontavius L. Jarrells, that memory began on a Cleveland bus. At 12 years old, while growing up in the Hough neighborhood, he watched a group of older boys mock a homeless woman as adults looked away. She sat quietly, trying to disappear. Jarrells waited for someone to intervene. No one did. Finally, the seventh grader spoke up. “Leave her alone.” The boys turned their attention toward him before the bus driver stopped the bus and removed them. As the woman quietly thanked him with tears in her eyes, Jarrells didn’t feel

in faith, sacrifice, and community, Jarrells grew up understanding both hardship and resilience. In Hough, he witnessed poverty, homelessness, and families struggling to make ends meet, but he also saw the power of neighbors supporting one another. While studying Political Science and Economics at Hiram College, Jarrells recognized that many of the challenges he witnessed were connected to public policy. That understanding became the foundation of his commitment to service. In six years in the Ohio House, Jarrells has introduced more than 50 bills and passed 11 into law. His accomplishments include securing $150 million for lead poisoning prevention, passing the Pay Stub Protection Act to strengthen workers’ rights, and championing the Homebuyer Protection Act to combat housing discrimination.

DONTAVIUS L. JARRELLS

Ohio House Of Representatives District 1

like a hero. He wondered why it had taken a child to defend someone’s dignity. He never forgot that moment. Today, Jarrells represents Ohio’s First House District, serving Columbus and surrounding communities in the Ohio House of Representatives. A former Assistant Minority Leader and one of the youngest Black lawmakers to hold that role, he has built a reputation as a legislator focused on creating meaningful change for everyday Ohioans. “Every bill I introduce starts with this: a state that loves its people must show it through its laws,” Jarrells says. “Government’s true test is whether people feel its care in their everyday lives.” That belief was shaped by his upbringing. Raised in a working-class union family rooted

His work on lead prevention is personal. As a child, Jarrells survived lead poisoning and understands the lifelong effects of environmental neglect. “When I fight for lead prevention, I’m fighting for the child I once was—and for every child who deserves better,” he says. From protecting working families and foster youth to advocating for disability rights and justice for the Randolph Freedpeople, Jarrells remains guided by one question: Who has been unseen, unheard, or left unprotected? “I want to be the kind of legislator I never saw growing up,” he says. “One who recognizes the full humanity in every person.” Behind every bill he introduces is the memory of a young boy on a Cleveland bus who chose compassion over silence.

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ichael Pappas is the owner and operator of Tommy’s Diner, located at 914 W. Broad Street in Franklinton, Ohio. Now in its 37th year of business, Tommy’s has become a beloved neighborhood institution, serving breakfast and lunch to generations of loyal customers while fostering a strong sense of community. The diner was founded in 1989 by Michael’s parents, Kathy and Tommy Pappas. Tommy immigrated from Sparta, Greece, bringing with him an extraordinary work ethic and a passion for serving others. He was known for warmly greeting customers at the door and treating everyone like family. Kathy built a reputation for preparing authentic, home-

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impact. He returned to the family business and worked side by side with his father until Tommy’s passing in 2024. Today, Kathy remains actively involved, and Michael proudly carries forward the family tradition. Under Michael’s leadership, Tommy’s continues to thrive while staying true to the values that have defined it for decades: hard work, hospitality, and genuine care for others. The diner has earned numerous accolades, including being ranked the No. 2 Best Roadside Diner in America by USA Today and being featured on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives with Guy Fieri in 2023. Michael’s success would not be possible without the unwavering support of his

Michael Pappas

Owner & Operator, Tommy’s Diner

cooked meals that blended traditional diner favorites with influences from the family’s Greek heritage. Tommy’s Diner embodies the classic American diner experience. Red vinyl booths, black-and-white checkered floors, and walls filled with family photos, community leaders, and cultural icons create an atmosphere that is both nostalgic and welcoming. For many patrons, Tommy’s is more than a place to eat—it is a place to connect. Although Michael spent much of his youth working weekends and summers at the diner, he initially planned a different career path. After graduating from Ohio University with a degree in Finance, he realized that helping his parents build upon their legacy was where he could make the greatest

wife, Melanie, and their sons, Athan and Costa. Their encouragement helps sustain the family-centered culture that has always defined Tommy’s Diner. He is equally grateful for his dedicated staff, whose hard work, loyalty, and commitment to exceptional service make Tommy’s the welcoming place it is today. Michael remains committed to ensuring every guest feels welcomed and valued. Through his leadership, Tommy’s Diner continues to be a place where food, family, and friendship come together—a lasting reflection of his parents’ vision and the enduring power of community.

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n an era when many leaders focus on influence, Pastor Michael Young is focused on impact. As the Lead Pastor of City of Grace Church in Columbus, Ohio, Young has emerged as a dynamic voice of hope, transformation, and unity, bringing together people from every walk of life under a shared vision for a stronger church and a stronger community. The church’s motto, “No Perfect People Allowed,” reflects his deeply held belief that every person deserves a place where they are seen, valued, and equipped to thrive. Known for his charismatic leadership, entrepreneurial mindset, and unwavering commitment to people, Young believes the future of leadership extends far beyond the four walls of a church building. His vision is not simply to grow an

PAGE 35 meaningful dialogue around issues affecting families and neighborhoods throughout Central Ohio. Those who know him best often point to his unique ability to bring together diverse voices around a common purpose. He recognizes the value of collaboration and believes that government officials, business leaders, faith communities, educators, and grassroots organizations can accomplish far more together than they can independently. While many leaders are measured by what they build, Young is increasingly focused on what will remain long after his leadership tenure. His vision centers on creating systems, programs, and partnerships that produce lasting impact for future generations. Through faith, mentorship, education, economic empowerment, and community engagement, he seeks to

Pastor Michael Young Lead Pastor, City of Grace Church

organization but to cultivate a movement that empowers individuals spiritually, physically, relationally, and financially. Whether engaging political leaders, business executives, entrepreneurs, families, or individuals facing significant life challenges, he is intentional about creating environments where people can discover purpose, develop their potential, and pursue meaningful transformation. His leadership philosophy emphasizes inclusion, collaboration, and the conviction that healthy communities are built when opportunities are accessible to everyone. Beyond his pastoral role, Young has earned respect as a community leader, bridge builder, and advocate for social justice. He has consistently used his platform to champion equity, expand opportunities for underserved populations, and encourage

establish pathways that help individuals move from survival to significance. This long-term perspective continues to shape his work and influence throughout the region. That vision is advanced through the dedicated support of Executive Pastor Rick Jones and a committed leadership team who help translate strategy into action while fostering a culture of excellence. Looking ahead, Young envisions City of Grace as a hub of transformation where faith inspires action, leaders are developed, families are strengthened, and people discover both purpose and possibility. Through vision, compassion, and courageous leadership, Pastor Michael Young continues to build a legacy that extends beyond a single generation—one that empowers communities, restores lives, and creates lasting change.

PAGE 36

Sean Walton Jr

Founding Partner, Walton + Brown LLP President, NAACP Columbus Branch

ean Walton Jr. is a trial lawyer, legal strategist, and community builder dedicated to making the justice system work as intended. As Founding Partner of Walton + Brown LLP in Columbus, alongside Chanda Brown, he has built a nationally recognized civil rights practice that has secured landmark victories in cases involving police misconduct, wrongful death, catastrophic injury, employment discrimination, and constitutional rights. His work extends beyond courtroom victories, using litigation to influence public policy, strengthen accountability, and drive institutional reform. Sean has handled some of the country’s most consequential civil rights cases, often taking on matters many believed would never result in criminal charges or meaningful accountability. He helped secure the nation’s first murder indictment of a law

enforcement officer in a case without video evidence or eyewitness testimony, which later resulted in a reckless homicide conviction and a $7 million settlement with Franklin County. He also established the first known murder indictment of an on-duty police officer in the death of a pregnant woman. In Columbus, he led the city’s first police shooting civil jury trial in approximately fifteen years and helped obtain a $5.75 million settlement for demonstrators injured during the 2020 racial justice protests, the largest protest-policing settlement in Ohio history. His practice has also produced the two highest known racial discrimination settlements for Ohio police officers, along with numerous seven- and eightfigure recoveries. Outside the courtroom, Sean is equally committed to building stronger institutions. As President of the NAACP Columbus Branch, he is expanding one of Ohio’s oldest

PAGE 37

civil rights organizations into lasting infrastructure for advocacy, leadership, and community empowerment. He serves on the Boards of Trustees of both the Ohio Association for Justice and the American Association for Justice, advises Axon’s Ethics and Equity Advisory Council on racial equity and public safety technology, and teaches civil rights litigation as an adjunct professor at Capital University Law School. Together with his wife, Jennifer, he co-founded Ground x Grind, a cultural hub that supports Black entrepreneurship, creativity, and community in Columbus.

Our 2026

Man of the Year

Sean earned his bachelor ’s degree from the University of Cincinnati as a Coca-Cola Darwin T. Turner Scholar before receiving his J.D. from Capital University Law School. He has been recognized as a Super Lawyers Rising Star every year since 2018 and has been featured by The Washington Post, The New York Times, CNN, and NBC Nightly News. His honors include the Poindexter Award, the Barrister ’s Salute, and Capital University Law School’s Graduate of the Last Decade Award. He is also a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and 100 Black Men of Central Ohio. At home, he is grounded by his wife, Jennifer, and their daughters, Sabella and Skyla, whose futures remind him that the pursuit of accountability and justice is ultimately about the generations to come.

PAGE 38

ore Than a Quarterback

Most people know Stanley Jackson as the quarterback who led Ohio State onto one of college football’s biggest stages. But ask Jackson how he hopes to be remembered, and the conversation quickly shifts away from football. Long before the stadium lights and soldout crowds, Jackson’s foundation was built in Paterson, New Jersey, by a family that valued integrity, discipline, resilience, and faith. His father taught him character. His mother modeled extraordinary strength through adversity. His brother demonstrated perseverance through action, and coach Almond “Lou” Mathis introduced him to the discipline required to pursue excellence. Together, they shaped the leader he would

PAGE 39 his identity had been tied to competition. Faith, trusted mentors, and a willingness to embrace a new purpose helped him navigate the uncertainty. Looking back, he believes football wasn’t the end of his story—it was preparation for it. That preparation eventually led him somewhere he never imagined. As co-founder and Commercial Lender at Buckeye State Bank, Jackson found another field on which to compete— not for championships, but for stronger communities. Today, he takes the greatest pride not in the bank’s growth, but in knowing families have careers, entrepreneurs have opportunities, and communities are stronger because of the institution he helped build. To him, community banking has never been simply about dollars and cents; it’s about creating opportunities that strengthen

Stanley Jackson

Co-Founder & Commercial Lender, Buckeye State Bank

become and instilled a lesson that still guides his life today: you get what you give. At Ohio State, Jackson learned lessons that extended far beyond the football field. While fans remember the victories, the Big Ten Championship, and the Rose Bowl, he remembers the relationships. “The trophies eventually collect dust,” he reflects. “The people, the lessons, and the memories stay with you forever.” As quarterback, he discovered that success is never permanent. Every accomplishment raises the standard, and excellence must be earned again each day. That mindset would prove just as valuable after football as it was during it. Like many athletes, Jackson faced a difficult transition when the game ended. For years,

lives. That same commitment continues through Buckeye State Bank’s Economic Summit, where Jackson brings together business and community leaders to share ideas, strengthen relationships, and help shape the future of Central Ohio. People may always introduce Stanley Jackson as a former Ohio State quarterback. He’s perfectly comfortable with that. “I’ll always be a quarterback,” he says. “But football was what I did—not who I was. It was God’s classroom, preparing me to become the husband, father, coach, banker, and leader I was created to be.”

PAGE 40

PAGE 41

or more than four decades, Tim Brown has dedicated his life to one mission: helping people discover that true success is measured not by what you achieve, but by the legacy you leave behind. An author, educator, minister, coach, and motivational speaker, Brown has become one of Columbus’ most respected voices in youth development, leadership, and faith-based mentoring. As the creator and host of the Be a Baller Podcast, he has built a platform that reaches far beyond sports, inspiring listeners to intentionally build lives of purpose, service, and impact. Through candid conversations with leaders in business, education, ministry, athletics, and community service, Brown challenges his audience to answer one powerful

to helping young people, particularly young men, realize their God-given potential. As the Central Ohio Ministry Director for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), Brown has spent decades investing in thousands of students through sports camps, school assemblies, mentoring programs, and leadership development initiatives. He is also a licensed and ordained minister who has served as a chapel speaker for The Ohio State University football, men’s basketball, and women’s basketball teams, while continuing to pour into student-athletes throughout Central Ohio. In 1985, Tim and his wife, Karmen, founded T.A.K.E. ABC (Talented Athletes and Artists Kompeting for Excellence, Achievers, Believers and Challengers), a nationally recognized girls’ AAU basketball program that has helped hundreds of young

Tim Brown

Central Ohio Ministry Director, Fellowship of Christian Athletes

question: What legacy are you building? The podcast’s message has grown into a movement, leading to the publication of his book, Living a Legacy, which features the inspiring stories and wisdom of Be a Baller guests and encourages readers to live with intentionality and leave an enduring impact on future generations. Brown’s passion for mentoring stems from his own story. Born in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and raised in East Cleveland, Ohio, he grew up without knowing his biological father. However, through the love of a strong mother, the foundation of faith, and the guidance of positive male role models, he discovered the transformative power of mentorship and community. Those experiences shaped his lifelong commitment

women earn college scholarships and pursue higher education. A graduate of Ohio University, Brown is also the author of Boys Won’t Be Boys and Uncommon Athletes, books that equip young people to live with character, purpose, and faith. Whether speaking on a stage, mentoring a student, hosting his podcast, or serving his community, Tim Brown’s life’s work remains the same: empowering others to live intentionally, lead courageously, and build a legacy that will outlive them. Tim and Karmen have been married for 41 years, have three children and one grandson, and continue to call Columbus, Ohio, home.

Under the leadership of Charles D. Hillman, Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority has become one of the nation’s most innovative housing organizations, helping drive economic growth, strengthen communities and expand opportunity across Central Ohio. Through visionary leadership and a commitment to service, CMHA continues to create housing and partnerships that support residents, neighborhoods and the future of our region. We proudly celebrate Charles D. Hillman’s recognition among Mahogany Magazine’s Power 100 in Central Ohio.

PAGE 44

Chief Bryant’s Positive Impact

ive years ago, few moments in Columbus’ civic life carried more uncertainty than the search for a new police chief.

The city was emerging from the upheaval of a global pandemic. Demonstrations following the murder of George Floyd had exposed deep fractures between police and the communities they served. Crime was rising. Morale inside the department was low. Calls for reform grew louder by the day. Mayor Andrew Ginther made a choice that would define not only the future of Columbus’ Division of Police, but possibly his own political legacy. He chose Elaine Bryant. The decision was anything but conventional. Chief Bryant arrived from Detroit after more than two decades in law enforcement, becoming the first external candidate ever selected to lead the division and the first Black woman to hold the position. Critics questioned the move. Some opposed bringing in an outsider, while others wondered whether someone unfamiliar with Columbus could navigate a department confronting cultural change while also addressing violent crime. “This was a bold change, one of historic proportions,” Ginther would later say. Today, the numbers help illustrate that narrative. In mid-June 2021, Columbus had already recorded 95 homicides. As of mid-June 2026 that number stood at 30, the lowest year-to-date homicide total in at least 25 years. Felony assaults have also dramatically declined. Under Bryant’s leadership, the division posted a homicide clearance rate exceeding 123 percent in 2025, solving not only current-year cases but cases from previous years. Yet statistics alone do not explain Bryant’s impact on the city. Plenty of leaders inherit challenges, but far fewer manage to alter the culture around them.

PAGE 45

Bryant arrived with a broad resume. During her 21 years with the Detroit Police Department, she worked patrol, domestic violence investigations, internal affairs, civilian oversight, and community relations. She built partnerships with faith leaders and served in neighborhoods often overlooked by institutions. She said these experiences gave her a working philosophy that would become central to her tenure in Columbus. “People like to say protect and serve,” said Bryant. “I have made it my personal mission to serve then protect.” Serve, then protect. Bryant often repeats the phrase, but more importantly, the people who work alongside her say she lives it. Eryn Hathaway, executive director and co-founder of EPIC Youth, remembers Bryant’s first visits to her organization. She said Bryant did not arrive with prepared speeches or cameras in tow. She came to listen. In neighborhoods where trust in law enforcement could not be assumed, Bryant and her leadership team sat with young people, community advocates, and families. They asked questions. They listened. They set the tone for a relationship grounded in presence, trust, and partnership. “Their leadership reflects a real investment in the community, especially in young people,” Hathaway said. “You can feel that they care, not just about safety, but about what our young people need today and in their future.” That approach has become a hallmark of Bryant’s tenure. Community events such as Trunk or Treat, the Senior Valentine’s Day Dance, and the Rich Street Roar car show might seem worlds apart from homicide investigations and crime analytics, but Bryant sees them as connected. Public safety, in her view, begins long before an arrest is made.

PAGE 46 Collaboration with the community helps keep the focus on prevention, not just enforcement. Bryant has paired building relationships with a distinctly modern approach to policing. She helped develop the city’s Crime Gun Intelligence Center, an interagency partnership that dramatically accelerates the tracing and analysis of crime guns. Evidence that once took months to process now arrives in days.

assistant chief classification was created, allowing Bryant greater flexibility in assembling a leadership team aligned with her vision. A voluntary retirement incentive accelerated generational change within the department and expanded opportunities to recruit a more diverse workforce. The message from City Hall was clear—Columbus was committing to a new direction.

She also launched a nonfatal shooting team that treats shootings without fatalities with the same urgency traditionally reserved for homicide investigations. In

As Bryant embarks on another five-year term, she speaks less about accomplishments than unfinished work. She talks about engaging youth, increasing

the neighborhoods where the pilot program operates, the closure rate has reached 92 percent, substantially higher than elsewhere in the city.

technology, accountability, and continuing to strengthen relationships between officers and residents.

While those initiatives reflect Bryant’s strengths as a reformer, they also reflect something else: support.

“Public safety is a shared responsibility, and support and collaboration are critical to our success,” said Bryant. “We are seeing progress. Let’s keep going.”

Ginther understood that a change in leadership alone would not be enough. Prior to bringing Bryant onboard, the city undertook structural changes designed to give a new chief room to succeed. An

Columbus today is safer than it was when Bryant first arrived. Trust has grown. The division has changed. And the city is better for it.

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PAGE 48

Edward Hill

Founder, Copacetic

Artist Spotlight

or Edward Hill, music is more than notes, chords, or melody. It is connection, ministry, and a way to bring people together. As founder and saxophonist of Copacetic, Hill leads a contemporary jazz group known for blending gospel, jazz, soul, and smooth grooves into a sound that just feels good. The name Copacetic means “all is well” or “everything is cool,” and that uplifting spirit shapes every performance.

Copacetic began with friends gathering for a gig, discovering something special, and deciding to keep building on it. Hill, along with original members David Jordan and Derek Brown, helped shape the group’s signature sound. That signature sound was expanded through collaborations with Christopher Brown, Charles Beacham, Derrick Kendrick, and, at times, Mark Hampton, Colin Easton, and Brandon Howard. Together, these seasoned musicians create performances that feel more like intimate conversations—warm,

PAGE 49 rhythmic, honest, and alive. For Hill, Copacetic is more than a band; it is an extension of his faith, community spirit, and desire to leave people feeling that all is well. Hill’s musical journey began in Centralia, Illinois, where the church piano bench became one of his earliest classrooms. Music grew into a lifelong path of performance, education, and service. He earned music degrees from Southern Illinois University and The Ohio State University, spent 13 years as a music educator in Columbus City Schools, and continues to invest in the next generation through private instruction. Over the years, Hill has performed from London to Harlem’s Apollo Theater, from playing the National Anthem at Chicago’s Wrigley Field to appearing on the main stage at Columbus’s Jazz and Rib Festival. Whether before thousands on the Columbus Commons as member of the orchestra with the Harmony Project or in an intimate club, Hill brings the same purpose to every setting: creating moments that connect people. Offstage, Hill carries that same rhythm of service. As a Navigator with the Greater Columbus Arts Council, he helps artists access resources that strengthen Columbus’ creative community. He also serves on the OhioHealth Learning Advisory Board, sharing with board members to positively impact the health community. He is a member of the Gahanna Charter Review Commission serving the residents there, and he consults with Culture Connect Group LLC. Across each role, his focus is consistent: helping people, strengthening community, and using his gifts with purpose. At the center of it all is faith. As a Deacon at New Salem Baptist Church, Hill’s service is grounded in the belief that gifts are meant to be shared. That belief shapes his love for people, devotion to his wife, Melanie, and their children, and commitment to community. For Hill, music is more than performance—it is a ministry. That passion will be on full display when Copacetic performs at the 2026 Jazz in the Creek event on Saturday, August 29, 2026, in Pickerington, Ohio. Tickets are available now for a memorable evening of music, culture, and community. Whether through music, teaching, civic work, or quiet service, Edward Hill continues to live a simple but powerful message: when purpose meets passion, the result can be truly copacetic. Where he goes, Hill seeks to make the situation, that place, that moment better than it was before he arrived.

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PAGE 52

XYZ PROFESSIONALS: MOVE WITH CONFIDENCE

YZ supports you fully. Before buying, selling, dividing, or building, trust XYZ Professional Services, LTD to guide you confidently.

Easton, COCIC Land Trust, Columbus Parks, Public Utilities, COTA, developers, and homeowners. The Angie’s List Gold Medal Service Award reflects their quality and client focus.

When Melva WilliamsArgaw, AIA, founded the firm in 2006 as Ohio’s first African American woman-owned architectural firm, she aimed to protect and build on every client’s investment. Starting as a single-service firm, it grew into a multi-disciplinary company known for value, vision, and expertise. In 2017, Columbus Business Journal named XYZ a top 50 minority-owned firm in Columbus. Williams-Argaw has since strengthened the firm’s unique service mix.

Williams-Argaw is Ohio’s second licensed African American woman architect and one of about 560 nationwide, showing her leadership. She earned her architecture degree from Hampton University, learning resilience and vision are key to success. Celebrating twenty years is meaningful. She also holds a Master of Arts in Public Policy and Management and a Master of City and Regional Planning from Ohio State University. With eighteen years in public-sector architecture, her credentials strengthen the firm. She serves on the Columbus AIA Board and Historic Resource Commission. Many former surveying clients return for architecture, valuing XYZ’s expertise and permitting skills. WilliamsArgaw prides herself on design rooted in land development knowledge.

Operating as XYZ Survey Service, LTD dba XYZ Professional Services, LTD, the firm began with land surveying. Twenty years ago, after meeting ODOT’s Jack Marchbanks and Columbus City Schools’ Dr. Jean Harris, Williams-Argaw realized every project starts with the land. This inspired her to start a surveying company as a path into architecture in a male-dominated field. Six months later, she left her job to build the business. Early success came with guidance from Ernest Walker, Jr. and Bemba K. Jones, III, two of Ohio’s few African American registered land surveyors then. Over eighteen years, XYZ earned a strong reputation, running up to three two-person crews. They provided surveying for OSU Don Scott Airport, John Glenn International Airport, ODNR gas projects, Nordstrom

As XYZ marks twenty years, the milestone highlights vision, resilience, and trusted service. What started as a bold idea is now a respected firm with a legacy of protecting investments, shaping communities, and guiding clients from land to design to approval. This anniversary celebrates two decades of achievement, relationships, reputation, and purpose driving XYZ forward.

PAGE 53

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PAGE 56

THE NEW ALBANY LECTURE SERIES RETURNS FOR 14TH SEASON

By: The New Albany Community Foundation

Former White House Chief of Staff Reince Priebus and political icon James Carville were interviewed by ABC’s Linsey Davis, seen here with The New Albany Community Foundation President Craig Mohre.

PAGE 57

Co-Anchor of ABC’s Good Morning America Robin Roberts was interviewed by Pelotonia Vice Chair and Founder of Orli, Doug Ulman during the 13th season of The New Albany Lecture Series.

n May, The New Albany Lecture Series and New Albany Student Lecture Series successfully concluded their 13th season. Presented by The New Albany Community Foundation, this nationally acclaimed program has hosted more than 70 distinguished speakers since its debut. The series regularly features Nobel Laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, diplomats, technology innovators, and prominent mental health advocates. The Foundation is deeply grateful to the corporate and individual sponsors whose generosity enabled nearly 40,000 students from 50 Central Ohio high schools to participate in the student lecture series this season. With the recent announcement of the 14th season that has expanded to six programs, tickets will be on sale later this summer at newalbanyfoundation.org.

Students from New Albany High School interviewed Christian Slater who discussed his career and the topic of mental health at The New Albany Student Lecture Series.

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE, HONORING IMPACT Encova Insurance proudly congratulates three remarkable leaders recognized by Mahogany 100 as some of Central Ohio’s most influential African Americans.

Archie M. Griffin Board Member, Encova Insurance

Yvette McGee Brown Board Member, Encova Insurance

Marchelle E. Moore Senior Vice President, External Affairs, Chief Inclusion and Belonging Officer and President, Encova Foundation of Ohio

PAGE 59

The “Free” Press is Dying & Black Media Must Rise

By Morgan Harper

his month, Trump’s Department of Justice approved the merger of Paramount Skydance and Warner Brothers Discovery. The deal would put household-name media brands like CBS News and CNN under one corporate umbrella, run by David Ellison, son of Donald Trump’s billionaire megadonor and technology company, Oracle, founder, Larry Ellison. States attorneys general and European officials could still block the merger, but regardless of what happens, the proposed deal demonstrates the need for the growth of Black media in Columbus and beyond. Paramount had been trying to buy Warner Brothers since last year, reportedly to make up for its dying television assets like Comedy Central with WBD’s high-value assets like the Harry Potter brand. At first, it seemed like Warner Brothers wasn’t interested. They rebuffed Paramount’s offers and appeared to settle on a deal with Netflix, the streaming giant. But by February 2026, Warner Brothers changed course and announced a proposed deal with Paramount valued at $111 billion. The deal drew immediate backlash from over 5,000 Hollywood workers, writers, and actors, including the Hulk himself, Mark Ruffalo, claiming it would kill Hollywood studios and reduce movie choices for consumers. Experts also highlighted how combining CNN and CBS News under the control of a Trump donor could further erode press independence, and open the door for more censorship at two of the largest news networks remaining in the U.S. So, it’s no surprise the Trump administration greenlit the merger, especially after David Ellison hosted dinners honoring the president this spring. The deal is not done yet. State attorneys general could sue to block the merger, and European officials also have their own authority to stop it. But regardless of what happens, media consolidation due to Big Tech and mergers has already threatened the existence of a free press. In particular, Black-owned outlets and journalists, especially at the local level, have struggled to remain financially viable and grow.

But we have been here before. Before we had rights, we had a Black press. The first Black-owned outlet, Freedom’s Journal, was founded in 1827 as an abolitionist paper. The Crisis, a publication founded in 1910 by the NAACP, sought to end violence towards Black people and featured many writers from the Harlem Renaissance. And leading up to the enactment of the Civil Rights Act, Black journalists covered the work of activists. Black America on the brink of this country’s 250th anniversary again needs a robust Black press and media ecosystem. Luckily, in Columbus we have a head start. In addition to this publication, the Columbus Association of Black Journalists is training the next generation to work in the news industry, and Columbus Can’t Wait is a local podcast covering political news, including from activists. We need to double down on our support of these efforts. It will take a movement to beat the corruption that has defined the Trump and neoliberal takeover of U.S. society, and a courageous Black press to follow along. Morgan Harper is a lawyer, the Director of Policy & Advocacy at the American Economic Liberties Project, a DC-based think tank, and co-founder of Columbus Stand Up!, a grassroots civic engagement organization.

PAGE 60

UNDERSTANDING PREECLAMPSIA: PROTECTING THE HEALTH OF BLACK MOTHERS AND BABIES

regnancy is often a time of excitement and hope for families, but it can also bring health challenges that require careful attention. One of the most serious pregnancy-related conditions is preeclampsia, a disorder that affects blood pressure and multiple organs during pregnancy. In the United States, African American women experience higher rates of pregnancy complications and maternal mortality, making awareness of conditions like preeclampsia especially important for our community. Preeclampsia typically develops after the 20th week of pregnancy and is most often identified by high blood pressure and signs of organ stress, such as protein in the urine. However, doctors now recognize that it is more than just a blood pressure problem. It is a multi-system condition linked to problems with blood vessels and the placenta, the organ that supplies oxygen and nutrients to the baby. When preeclampsia occurs,

it can affect the kidneys, liver, brain, and other organs, and in severe cases may lead to seizures, stroke, or complications for the baby. Several factors can increase the risk of developing preeclampsia. These include chronic high blood pressure, kidney disease, diabetes, obesity, and first pregnancies. Women who are carrying twins or who have a family history of preeclampsia may also be at higher risk. Unfortunately, African American women are more likely to have conditions such as hypertension and kidney disease, which may partly explain the higher rates of pregnancy complications seen in our community. Recognizing the warning signs early can save lives. Symptoms may include severe headaches, swelling of the hands or face, vision changes, shortness of breath, or sudden weight gain. Expectant mothers should attend all prenatal visits, where healthcare providers routinely check blood pressure and screen for signs of the condition. Healthy lifestyle habits before and during pregnancy—such as maintaining a healthy weight, managing blood pressure, and following medical advice—can also help reduce risk. The most important message is that early care and awareness matter. If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, partner closely with your healthcare provider and speak up about any concerning symptoms. Protecting the health of mothers protects the health of families and strengthens our entire community. Christopher Brown, MD, MPH, FACP, FASN, DipABLM Chief Executive Officer & Chief Medical Officer, PressureMD® Lifestyle Medicine Physician | Hypertension & Kidney Health

By Dr. Chris Brown, MD, MPH, FACP | Founder, PressureMD

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