NFBPA 1st Quarterly Newsletter 2025 by NFBPASOFLO

THE LATEST!

The NFBPA, a professional membership organization dedicated to the advancement of Black leadership in the public sector, was founded in June 1983 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Over the years, its membership grew to include managers and executives in virtually all disciplines represented in state and local governments. In addition to public service professionals, the association's membership embraces graduate students, deans, and faculty at schools of public administration, community service professionals, and executives in the corporate sector.

Leon Pinder

Venice Howard

Sophia A. Nelson Kerry Arthurs

Kemarr L. Brown

Rikivia Kennerly

Marcia Conner

Bobbi Smith

Barbara Smith Paulette Herron Knickeita Bullock Tennille Decoste

VENICE HOWARD, MPA, MMC

ACTING CITY MANAGER

CITY OF LAUDERDALE LAKES

KENNIE HOBBS, JR., MS

INTREIM CITY MANAGER

CITY OF LAUDERHILL

CONGRESSIONAL AFFAIRS

SPECIALIST FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY (FEMA) JOINT RECOVERY OFFICE IN REGION FOUR

DR. PHILIP HARRIS

DIRECTOR OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

CITY OF GREENARCES

NADLIE CHARLES, MPA

Highlights, Events and Webinars

SERGINE S. METELLUS

2024 Dean’s list for Florida International University!

Awarded the ““Do Right Thing” Teacher of the Month Award!

DELORES HOLLEY

Most Prominent and Influential Black Woman in Business and Industry for 2024!

KIMBERLY DENNARD-KOHN

Most Prominent and Influential Black Woman in Business and Industry for 2024!

BRENDA-LEA MORRISON

Urban League of Broward Appointed Board Member

LASHAWN

M.S., RHIT, CCHP

Top 250 Professors in the United States based on the Total Study Action in a course, on Circleln.

FABIO CABRERA

LAWRENCE,

Highlights, Events and Webinars

2025 Corporate Spotlights

Hazen & Sawyer is a forward-thinking firm dedicated to delivering tailored, strategic solutions for organizations navigating today’s dynamic business landscape. With an emphasis on blending deep industry insights with innovative problem-solving,thecompany’sapproachcentersonforginggenuinepartnerships thatempowerclientstoachievemeasurablesuccess.

Byharnessingacollaborativemethodology,Hazen&Sawyerworkscloselywithits clients to understand their unique challenges and goals. This enables the firm to craftbespokestrategiesthatnotonlyaddressimmediateneedsbutalsopavethe way for sustainable long-term growth. Their comprehensive suite of services is designedtostreamlinedecision-makinganddriveoperationalexcellence,making thefirmatrustedadvisorinanever-evolvingmarket.

Hazen&Sawyerwashonoredwiththeprestigious2024NFBPASouthFloridaChapter President’sAppreciationAward,recognizingitsoutstandingserviceandsupportas a Corporate Sponsor. In a statement released by the company, Hazen & Sawyer expressed deep gratitude for the recognition and highlighted its ongoing commitment to a collaborative partnership with the NFBPA South Florida Chapter. The company reaffirmed its dedication to advancing shared goals, particularly in makingameaningfulimpactwithinthecommunitiestheyserve.

The award ceremony acknowledged not only the company’s exemplary contributionsbutalsoextendedspecialthankstoDr.AneishaDanielandtheentire NFBPA South Florida Chapter for their collective efforts. Reflecting its core values, Hazen&Sawyeremphasizedthebeliefthatachievingexcellenceispossiblethrough strongandstrategicpartnerships.

Highlights, Events and Webinars

FUNDRAISING CRUISE FEBRUARY 21-24, 2025 2025 Celebrating Black Excelle

TheNationalForumforBlackPublicAdministrators(NFBPA)SouthFlor recently hosted the "Celebrating Black Excellence" fundraising February21-24,2025.Thiseventbroughttogethermembersandsup memorable journey that combined relaxation with a shared com advancingBlackleadershipinthepublicsector.

Throughout the cruise, attendees engaged in networking op professional development sessions, and cultural celebrations, a fostering connections and supporting NFBPA's mission. The event's s made possible through partnerships with Royal Caribbean and Odyssey Travel Group,whosecollaborationensuredaseamlessandenjoyableexperienceforall participants.

TheNFBPASouthFloridaChapterextendsitsgratitudetoeveryonewhocontributedto theevent'ssuccess.Forthosewhomissedthecruiseorwishtorelivetheexperience,a recaphighlightvideoisavailableonourofficialInstagrampage.

AstheorganizationcontinuesitsdedicationtotheadvancementofBlackleadershipin publicadministration,membersandsupportersareencouragedtostayconnectedand participateinfutureevents.

Highlights, Events and Webinars

The National Forum for Black Public Administrators (NFBPA)SouthFloridaChapterproudlypartneredwith the American Society for Public Administration (ASPA)SouthFloridaChapterforthe19thAnnualBest Practices Conference, held on February 7, 2025, at MiamiDadeCollege–NorthCampus.

This premier event brought together public administration professionals, scholars, and students to discuss critical issues, emerging trends, and the latest research in the field. As a supporting partner, NFBPA South Florida Chapter contributed to the conference's success by fostering an environment of collaborationandknowledgesharing.

Theconferencefeaturedaseriesofworkshops,panel discussions, and keynote speeches from esteemed leaders in public service. Attendees had the opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogues, exchangebestpractices,andbuildnetworksthatwill enhance their professional development and the communitiestheyserve.

NFBPA South Florida Chapter remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote excellence and innovation in public administration. We look forward to future collaborations with ASPA South Florida Chapter and other organizations dedicated to advancingpublicservice.

Highlights, Events and Webinars

SouthFloridaChapterbroughttheexcitementandenergyof Super Bowl 2025 to life with a dynamic Family Fun NetworkingEventonFebruary9,2025,atMikki’sSpeakeasy inNorthLauderdale.

With the Kansas City Chiefs facing off against the Philadelphia Eagles, members, friends, and families gathered to watch the big game in style while enjoying an evening filled with laughter, connection, and community celebration. The event ran from 5 PM to 11 PM and featured games,food,raffles,andinteractivefunforattendeesofall ages.

Thiswasn’tjustawatchparty,itwasanopportunitytobuild relationships across sectors, strengthen our professional network, and celebrate the power of Black excellence in publicadministration.Fromtheyoungestfansenjoyingthe family zone to seasoned leaders cheering on their teams, theenergywaselectricandthevibesunmatched.

The NFBPA South Florida Chapter thanks all who attended and contributed to making this night a touchdown of success. Stay connected for more engaging communitybuildingeventsandopportunitiestogrowtogether!

Highlights, Events and Webinars

We hosted a Membership Webinar as part of its SoFL Connect series to help members and prospective members maximize the full potential of the NFBPA Connect platform. Held on February 18 and March 18, 2025, the webinar was led by Chapter Chair Dr. Shirley SimsandCo-ChairRichardMorris,Jr.

Withover3,000professionalsacrossthecountryonthe Connect platform, this informative session provided attendeeswiththetoolsandknowledgeto:

SeamlesslynavigatetheConnectsystem

Build professional relationships through networking features

Discover exclusive member benefits offered by the NFBPANationalandSouthFloridaChapters

Learn about chapter leadership engagement opportunities

Stay up to date on events, jobs, and initiatives in publicservice

Whetheryou'reanewmemberoralongtimesupporter, this webinar was designed to ensure every participant feels empowered to make the most of their NFBPA membershipandplugintoathrivingnationalnetworkof Black public administrators committed to leadership, equity,andinnovation. Missedthewebinar?

Don’t worry—more sessions and resources are coming soon!

https://news.palmbeachstate.edu/2025/02/27/high-school-seniors-explorecareer-paths-in-trade-industry-at-pbsc/

Highlights, Events and Webinars

On a beautiful day in Palm Beach, the National Forum for Black Public Administrators (NFBPA) South Florida Chapter proudly joined hundreds of families, advocates, and supporters at the AutismSpeaksWalk–PalmBeach.Ourparticipationhighlighted our chapter's continued commitment to community engagement, inclusion, and advocacy for individuals with developmentaldisabilities.

TheAutismSpeaksWalkistheworld’slargestautismfundraising event,dedicatedtoimprovingthelivesofpeoplewithautismand theirfamiliesthroughadvocacy,research,services,andsupport.

TheSouthFloridaChaptershowedupinunity—walkingtogether, raising awareness, and contributing to a cause that aligns with ourvaluesofequityandsupportforvulnerablepopulations.

By participating, we also honored families and public servants whoworktirelesslytoprovideservicesandresourcesforchildren and adults on the autism spectrum. NFBPA South Florida members took the opportunity to engage with community leaders, nonprofit partners, and local residents, reaffirming our chapter’s dedication to inclusive public service and community wellness.

We are grateful to everyone who joined our team, donated, or supported the walk in spirit. Together, we’re not only advancing the mission of Autism Speaks—but also strengthening our own missiontoupliftcommunitiesthroughresponsiveleadershipand advocacy. LearnmoreaboutAutismSpeaksandhowyoucangetinvolved: www.autismspeaks.org

Highlights, Events and Webinars

On March 15, 2025, the NFBPA South Florida Chapter proudly collaborated with The Links, Incorporated – North Broward County (FL) Chapter, and a host of dedicated community partners to support the Black Family Wellness Expo at Shirley Branca Park in Miramar, FL. This impactful event brought togetherfamilies,healthprofessionals,andlocalorganizations foradayofwellness,education,andempowerment.

Asakeypartner,NFBPASouthFloridajoineddozensofagencies to provide resources and support to residents of all ages. The Expofeatured:

Free health screenings (blood pressure, glucose, mental health,andmore)

Ablooddrive

Educationalpresentationsandlegalinformationclinics

Access to county services, eldercare resources, and voter registration

AvibrantKidsFunZone

Andexcitinggiveawaysthroughouttheday!

Our chapter members helped promote civic engagement and provided information about public administration careers, leadership opportunities, and community impact through NFBPA’slocalandnationalinitiatives.

This collaborative effort reflects our chapter’s unwavering commitment to equity in public health, access to information, and community-centered leadership. We extend our gratitude to The Links, Inc., and all the incredible partners—including AARP, Florida Blue, American Red Cross, WAVE, YMCA, Genentech,andmore—whomadetheeventapowerfulsuccess.

Highlights, Events and Webinars

SoFlo Cares About You!

Let’s all participate in “Wellness Check Wednesday!”

Reach out to a fellow colleague through text, email, phone call or any platform and check in on them. Be sure to ask them if they are coming to the next meeting.