Catalyst
PUBLISHER: REDFERN II
CITYLIGHT FOUNDERS:
JOE & GLADYS GR I M A U D
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER:
LUELLA J. REDFERN, PH.D
ECUMENICAL UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT:
DR JAMES L. FELDER
OPERATIONS MANAGER:
DR GWEN BYRD
DIRECTOR OF PRESERVATION:
FELICIA YVONNE YOUNG TROWER
DIRECTOR OF ESTHER WOMEN:
SEPTEMBER 5, 2024 AT 12 NOON BROOKLAND BAPTIST BANQUET CENTER BUFFET LUNCH $12.99/ $11..99 SENIORS
WELCOME DR. JAMES L. FELDER PRESIDENT, ECUMENICAL UNIVERSITY
INVOCATION REV. BERNARD BYRD
PURPOSE
INTRODUCTION OF HONOREES DR. BOBBY DONALDSON ECUMENICAL UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT DR. JAMES FELDER
DIRECTOR OF HISTORIC PRESERVATION FELECIA YVONNE TROWER
ESTHER WOMEN OF INFLUENCE WORLDWIDE DR. LUELLA REDFERN
REMARKS & BENEDICTION BISHOP REDFERN II
Simon Bouie, a name that resonates with courage and resilience, played a pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement, mainly through his involvement in the landmark case . Born when segregation and racial injustice were rampant across the United States, Bouie's actions ght for equality and justice, making him a civil rights hero whose impact reverberated far beyond his hometown of Columbia, South
On March 14, 1960, Simon Bouie and fellow student Talmadge J. Neal courageously participated in a sit-in at an Eckerd's drugstore lunch counter in Columbia, South Carolina. This act of de fi ance against the segregation policies of the time was more than a protest; it was a statement. The lunch counter, which served only white customers, became a battleground for the fight
Simon Bouie: Civil Rights Hero and Pioneer
against racial inequality. After peacefully sitting at the counter, Bouie and Neal were arrested for breach of the peace and criminal trespass. Their convictions, however, would soon become a central point in a legal battle that reached the highest court in the land.
The case of Bouie v. City of Columbia reached the United States Supreme Court, where the core issue was whether the retroactive application of a judicial construction of a criminal statute violated the Due Process Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. The South Carolina Supreme Court had broadened the interpretation of the trespass statute to include remaining on the premises after being asked to leave, a construction that was not previously explicit. The U.S. Supreme Court, in a majority opinion delivered by Justice William J. Brennan Jr., found that this retroactive application deprived Bouie and Neal of their right to fair
warning of criminal conduct, a fundamental principle of due process. On June 22, 1964, the Court reversed their convictions, establishing a critical legal precedent.
Critical Response
The Bouie v. City of Columbia decision was part of a broader legal and social movement that sought to dismantle institutionalized segregation in the United States. The case was one of five significant Supreme Court decisions on June 22, 1964, which collectively addressed segregation protests. Although the Court did not directly tackle the constitutionality of segregation in public accommodations in these cases, the rulings occurred just days before the Civil Rights Act of 1964 was passed by the U.S. Senate, effectively outlawing segregation in public spaces.
The timing of the Bouie decision is significant, as it provided judicial reinforcement to the growing momentum for civil rights legislation. By ruling against the retroactive application of an ambiguous criminal statute, the Supreme Court underscored the importance of fairness and due process, cornerstones of American jurisprudence. This decision not
only protected the rights of Bouie and Neal but also sent a powerful message against the arbitrary enforcement of laws designed to uphold racial segregation.
Impact on the National Movement
Simon Bouie's bravery and subsequent legal victory in Bouie v. City of Columbia profoundly impacted the National Civil Rights Movement. The case highlighted the judiciary's role in protecting individual rights against discriminatory practices and reinforced the broader legal and moral battle against segregation. It demonstrated that through courage and determination, ordinary citizens could challenge and change unjust laws.
Bouie's actions and the Supreme Court's decision in his favor became a beacon of hope and a symbol of the relentless pursuit of justice. The case inspired further civil rights activism, encouraging others to stand up against racial injustice. It also added to the growing body of legal precedents that would eventually lead to the dismantling of Jim Crow laws across the South.
Legacy
Simon Bouie’s legacy as a civil rights pioneer is indelibly etched in American history. His willingness
Continued on page 30
Honoring their Achievements: Felicia Yvonne Young Trower and Shirley Caldwell Pride
The names Felicia Yvonne Young Trower and Shirley Caldwell Pride shine brightly in the annals of civil rights history and the pursuit of equal opportunity. Both women have made enduring contributions to South Carolina and the nation, and their legacies continue to inspire future generations. As we honor their achievements, we reflect on their profound impact in their respective fields and beyond.
Felicia Yvonne Young Trower: A Pillar of the Civil Rights Movement
Born on March 12, 1942, in Blair, South Carolina, Felicia Yvonne Young Trower’s life has been a testament to resilience, dedication, and the unwavering pursuit of justice. From a young age, Felicia was immersed in the struggles of the African American community, attending segregated schools and witnessing fi rsthand the harsh realities of racial inequality.
Felicia’s activism took a pivotal turn when she participated in the civil rights protest in Columbia, South Carolina, where she and 185
other students were arrested for marching around the State House. This bold act of defiance was part of a broader movement challenging the systemic racism of the time. The students were represented by notable civil rights attorneys Matthew Perry and Lincoln Jenkins, leading to a landmark ruling by the United States Supreme Court in the case Edwards v. South Carolina. This decision affirmed the right of individuals to peacefully demonstrate without fear of retribution, a significant victory in the fight for civil rights.
Beyond her activism, Felicia’s contributions to education and community service have left an indelible mark. She earned her bachelor's degree in business education from Benedict College. She pursued graduate studies at various institutions, including California State University in Los Angeles and the University of South Carolina. Felicia dedicated her life to nurturing young minds as a teacher in the Los Angeles Unified School District and later in Fairfield County, South Carolina
Felicia Yvonne Young Trower
Even after her retirement in 2000, she continued volunteering as a tutor, ensuring the gift of knowledge was passed on to the next generation.
Caldwell Pride
Felicia’s influence extended into the world of fashion as well. While in Los Angeles, she graduated from prestigious modeling schools and became a model with New Breed, LTD, appearing in prominent publications like Sepia Magazine. Her versatility as a teacher, model, and civil rights fighter exemplifies how she has contributed to society.
Shirley Caldwell Pride: A Champion for Equal Opportunity
Shirley Caldwell Pride’s career is a testament to her unwavering commitment to equal opportunity and her profound impact on state government in South Carolina. Born and raised in the Palmetto State, Shirley earned her bachelor's degree from Benedict College in 1964 and embarked on a storied career in public service.
Shirley’s journey began in the athletic department at South Carolina State College. Still, her passion for helping others soon led her to the Employment Guidance Center, where she served as an employment counselor. Her role evolved as the center transitioned into the Greater Columbia Community Relations Council, and eventually, in 1979, she became the C.E.T.A. administrator for the Columbia Housing Authority.
In 1980, Shirley joined the South Carolina Human Affairs Commission, where she held various roles, including Equal Employment Opportunity Commission consultant and senior intake investigator in the Division of Intake and Referral. Her work in these positions was instrumental in advancing equal employment opportunities and ensuring that the rights of all citizens were protected. Shirley’s contributions extended beyond her professional career.
Shirley
She was actively involved in numerous professional organizations and community initiatives. Her dedication to community service was evident in her involvement with the Windsor Lake Homeowners Association, the Meals on Wheels program, and the Richland County Sheriff's Department's Citizens Academy Alumni Association. Her commitment to the American Red Cross as a blood donor since 1995 further highlights her spirit of giving and service.
Shirley was honored with the State Governor's Award upon her retirement in 2005 in recognition of her outstanding contributions. Her name was also unveiled on a historical marker commemorating the 1961 State House March, a significant moment in the civil rights movement in South Carolina.
A Legacy of Courage and Commitment
Felicia Yvonne Young Trower's and Shirley Caldwell Pride's achievements serve as powerful reminders of the importance of perseverance, courage, and a steadfast commitment to justice. Both women have left an indelible legacy in civil rights and equal opportunity, and their stories continue to inspire those who follow in their footsteps.
As we celebrate their contributions, we are reminded that the fight for equality and justice is ongoing. Felicia and Shirley's legacies remind us that through dedication and action, individuals can make a profound difference in their communities and beyond. Their lives are a testament to the power of standing up for what is right, and their impact will be felt for generations.
BOUIE Continue from page 7 rights pioneer is indelibly etched in confront injustice and the significant legal victory in his case helped pave the way for the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and subsequent advancements in the struggle for equality. Bouie’s story is a reminder that the fight for civil rights was waged in the streets and the courts, where the principles of justice and fairness were upheld against the forces of oppression.
As we reflect on Simon Bouie's life and impact, we honor him not only as a hero of the past but also as a guiding light for the ongoing struggle for justice and equality in America. His courage and the legal precedent set by his case continue to inspire generations of activists, reminding us all of the power of standing up for what is right, even in the face of overwhelming odds.
Jackie J. Whitmore
Historian
A Lifelong Commitment to Community and Heritage
Jackie J. Whitmore is a man whose roots run deep in the rich soil of South Carolina, and his dedication to community service, education, and the preservation of African American history has made him a standout figure in his state. The younger of two children born to the late Jerome Levy and Rebecca Whitmore, Jackie was raised by his maternal grandmother, Lucinda Jackson Whitmore, and his paternal grandfather, Chappelle Levy. Growing up in the Bluff Estates community of Columbia, Jackie was shaped by strong family values and a deep connection to his heritage.
Educational and Professional Journey
A proud 1987 graduate of Dreher High School in Columbia, Jackie pursued higher education with a focus on social work and service to others. He completed his undergraduate studies at Allen University in 1993 and earned a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of South Carolina in 1999. His academic achievements laid the foundation for a career dedicated to public service.
Jackie’s professional life has been defined by his work as a community social worker with the South Carolina Department of Health and
Preservation of African American History
Environmental Control (DHEC) and Palmetto Health. His compassion and commitment to improving the lives of those in need were evident in every role he undertook. In addition to his work in social services, Jackie shared his knowledge and passion for social science as a professor at Midlands Technical College and Voorhees College, where he influenced and mentored countless students.
Service to Church and Country Jackie’s commitment to service extends beyond the professional sphere and into his personal life. A lifelong member of Bibleway Church of Atlas Road, he serves both as a deacon and one of the church’s historians, preserving the rich history of his congregation. His faith has been a guiding force in his life, shaping his approach to service and leadership within the church community.
In addition to his church work, Jackie is a proud veteran of the South Carolina Army National Guard, having served a tour of duty in Bosnia. His military service reflects his dedication to his country and his willingness to protect and serve others.
He is also an active member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, which emphasizes brotherhood, scholarship, and service—values that Jackie exemplifies in all areas of his life.
Preservation of African American History
One of Jackie’s most notable achievements is his work in preserving and honoring African American history in South Carolina. With the support of family and friends, Jackie successfully coordinated the installation of six state historical markers across Richland, Calhoun, and Williamsburg counties, all of which
Jackie J. Whitmore
Family and Reunion Coordination
highlight the signi fi cant contributions of African Americans in the region. These markers stand as permanent reminders of the rich history and enduring legacy of African American communities in the state.
Jackie also spearheaded efforts to erect memorial stones in Fort Motte, South Carolina, honoring his relatives Senator Samuel L. Duncan and Representative Edward I. Cain, both of whom served in the South Carolina Legislature during Reconstruction. His dedication to preserving their memory underscores his commitment to recognizing the contributions of African American leaders who paved the way for future generations.
In addition, Jackie created the Ben Hanes Historical Display in Fort Motte, further contributing to the preservation of local history. His work in this area has made a lasting impact on the way South Carolina remembers and honors its past.
Family is at the heart of everything Jackie does. He coordinates four family reunions, each of which plays an important role in keeping the bonds of family strong and ensuring that the stories and heritage of past generations are passed down. The reunions he coordinates include the United Family Reunion Descendants and Related Families of Lang Syne Plantation, the BruortonBrewington Reunion, the United Levy Reunion, and the Old Guard Military Reunion. These gatherings are more than just family events; they are a celebration of history, heritage, and the enduring strength of family connections.
Jackie is married to Mrs. Stephanie Tucker Whitmore, and together they have two children, Jackson and Rebecca. His family is his foundation, and their support has been central to his many accomplishments.
Dr. James L. Felder, President
The Making of the Ecumenical University
Equipping New World Ministers with the Tools and Skills for Modern Societal Needs
Ecumenical University was founded to address the educational and vocational needs of ministers and the underserved who could not access traditional colleges and seminaries due to financial and logistical constraints. Its mission is deeply rooted in the historical relationship between education and religious institutions, similar to the earliest English and American colleges. Ecumenical University was founded with the same motivations as the founders of Oxford and Cambridge
Bishop Redfern II established Ecumenical University with the support of Ecumenical Bishops
Gladys Grimaud, Ph.D., Dr. Stephen Manley, Mwalimu Dieudonne, Victor Evans, Asiimwe, Eddy Patrick Donkeng, Charles Mpagi, David Eyoma, Andrew Jeyaran Dev, Donal James, Emily Kadega, Edward Langat, Wycliffe Ombecha, Luella J. Redfern, and George Njoroge. Their unique approach was to counter the trend of universities becoming more secular. Ecumenical University shares a historical relationship with other educational institutions founded to address the needs of underserved communities deeply rooted in religious traditions.
The earliest American colleges were established primarily to train clergy. For example:
Harvard University (1636): Founded by Puritans to prepare ministers for service in the New World.
College of William & Mary (1693): Anglican-affiliated, focused on training clergy and civil servants. Yale University (1701): Established by Congregationalist ministers to train clergy.
Princeton University (1746): Explicitly founded to train Presbyterian ministers. Columbia University (1754): With Anglican origins, emphasized clergy education.
Bishop Stephen Manley’s theological work in establishing the Cross Style School of Practical Ministry in 40 countries aimed to train pastors and lay leaders in the worldview of Jesus Christ. Drs.
Olivet Nazarene University (1907): Located in Bourbonnais, Illinois, one of the oldest Nazarene institutions.
Joseph and Gladys Grimaud noted the work of Phineas Bresee and The Church of the Nazarene, which established several colleges to integrate academic excellence with the Christian faith, reflecting their holiness tradition. Examples include: Northwest Nazarene University (1913): It began as an elementary school and grew into a university.
Southern Nazarene University (1899): Started as Beulah Heights Academy and Bible School, evolved into a full university.
Trevecca Nazarene University (1901): Started as a Bible training school and expanded into a liberal arts college.
Eastern Nazarene College (1900): Began as the Pentecostal Collegiate Institute in Saratoga Springs, New York, before relocating to Quincy, Massachusetts.
establishing churches and colleges. The African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church founded several colleges to provide higher education opportunities to African Americans during a time when they were largely denied access to mainstream institutions. Examples include:
Wilberforce University (1856, acquired by AME in 1863): Played a significant role in higher learning and the advancement of African Americans.
Paul Quinn College (1872): Founded to educate freed slaves and their descendants.
Edward Waters College (1866): Aimed to educate newly freed slaves.
These institutions were foundational examples of the Christian framework of Ecumenical University. Bishops Mwalimu Dieudonne, Victor Evans, Asiimwe, Eddy Patrick Donkeng, Charles Mpagi, David Eyoma, Andrew Jeyaran Dev, Donal James, Emily Kadega, Edward Langat, Wycliffe Ombecha, Luella J. Redfern, and George Njoroge led missionary volunteers in East and Central Africa, India, and the Caribbean to identify, train, and empower local leaders to establish education centers. Each center was equipped with a "Seminary in a Box," which included video classroom instruction on DVDs, a DVD player, a television, and a generator for
Ecumenical University students in Bungoma,
areas without electricity. These training kits have been distributed to rural churches and groups in underdeveloped countries worldwide for twenty years.
As the program evolved, students desired formal recognition of their studies. Initially, a certificate of completion was awarded, which eventually progressed to degrees and diplomas. In 2006, the university began holding graduation ceremonies with caps and gowns. As graduates started using their certi fi cates and diplomas for references in their local churches, with the government, and as prerequisites for ordination and ministry work, it became evident that a central worldwide facility was needed to authenticate and curate their educational achievements.
Thus, Ecumenical University was chartered in Columbia, South Carolina, USA, on April 11, 2012, by Redfern II, the Presiding Bishop and General Overseer of the Ecumenical Church Worldwide.
With its establishment, a Board of Regents was created to oversee a global system for maintaining records of former students, standardizing the curriculum, grading systems, and documenting students' certificates, degrees, and diplomas.
As the program evolved, students desired formal recognition of their studies.
As the program evolved, students desired formal recognition of their studies. Initially, a certificate of completion was awarded, which eventually progressed to degrees and diplomas. In 2006, the university began holding graduation ceremonies with caps and gowns. As graduates started using their certi fi cates and diplomas for references in their local churches, with the government, and as prerequisites for ordination and ministry work, it became evident that a central worldwide facility was needed to authenticate and curate their educational achievements.
Thus, Ecumenical University was chartered in Columbia, South Carolina, USA, on April 11, 2012, by Redfern II, the Presiding Bishop and General Overseer of the Ecumenical Church Worldwide. With its establishment, a Board of Regents was created to oversee a global system for maintaining records of former students, standardizing the curriculum, grading systems, and documenting students' certificates, degrees, and diplomas.
Under the Leadership of our 3rd president, Dr. James L. Felder Ecumenical University maintains its worldview of God as central to all of man’s endeavors. It does not deny or avoid scientific achievements and embraces new technological advancements in learning and development.
Ecumenical University is building 5,000 schools, churches and campuses Worldwide
Supercharge Your Education with AI Technology
Ecumenical University offers a unique education program designed to help students achieve their career goals efficiently with the support of advanced AI technologies. Here are the key features of our program:
Flexible Learning Options: We provide online and in-person classes, catering to diverse learning preferences and schedules. Accelerated Education : Our innovative curriculum, enhanced by AI, enables students to complete their degrees in one to two years instead of the traditional four years.
Affordable Tuition: While many institutions charge between $30,000 and $60,000 annually, Ecumenical University keeps education accessible, with tuition costs ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 annually.
Range of Degrees: At Ecumenical University, we believe in empowering our students with a wide range of educational opportunities. That's why we offer various programs, including Bachelor's, Master's, and Ph.D. degrees, allowing you to choose the path that best suits your career goals.
Advantages of a Degree from Ecumenical University
At Ecumenical University, our programs are designed and taught by industry-leading experts with extensive real-world experience. Our faculty's deep expertise ensures that students receive the highest quality education, preparing them for success in their chosen careers.
Curriculum
Our comprehensive curriculum covers a wide range of subjects, providing students with the knowledge they need to excel in their fields. We emphasize both theoretical understanding and practical application, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the challenges of the modern workforce
Access to Advanced Tools with AI Technology
Ecumenical University offers an accelerated education program that allows students to complete their degrees in one to two years. This efficient approach, combined with our use of advanced AI technologies, ensures that students can quickly gain the skills and credentials they need to advance their careers without compromising on the quality of their education.
Career Opportunities
Ecumenical University prepares students for a wide range of career opportunities across various fields, including:
Theology and Ministry
• Pastor/Minister
• Youth Pastor
• Chaplain
• Missionary
• Religious Educator
Marketing and Communications
• Marketing Coordinator
• Social Media Manager
• Content Creator
• Public Relations Specialist
• Communications Manager
Human Resources
• HR Assistant
• Recruiter
• HR Coordinator
• HR Manager
Nonprofit Sector
• Program Coordinator
• Development Officer
• Fundraising Manager
• Nonprofit Administrator
Business and Management
• Project Coordinator
• Business Analyst
• Operations Manager
• Entrepreneur/Business Owner
Healthcare Administration
• Medical Office Manager
• Health Services Manager
• Patient Coordinator
• Healthcare Administrator
• Medical Records Manager
Government and Public Service
• Policy Analyst
• Public Affairs Specialist
• Administrative Officer
• Government Program Coordinator
• Community Service Manager
Preserving a Legacy:
Felicia Young Trower's Mission is to Restore the Thompson House, Celebrate Gethsemane Church, and commemorate the Gethsemane School.
In the heart of Fairfield County, South Carolina, the Thompson House stands as a monument to the resilience of one of the first Black landowners in the area, Bunyon Thompson. Today, Felicia Yvonne Young Trower, a great-granddaughter of Bunyon Thompson, leads a determined effort not only to restore this historic home but also to revitalize the deep-rooted Historical importance of Gethsemane Baptist Church and the Gethsemane School—two critical institutions her family helped build that shaped the Gethsemane community.
Felicia’s mission to preserve these landmarks reflects her deep personal connection. The Thompson House, built by her great-grandparents Tommy Lee and Eunice Shelton Thompson in the 1930s, became a gathering place for the community. It was located across the road from the Gethsemane Baptist Church, a stone church built with timber from the Thompson family land, and the Gethsemane School, where Eunice taught for 35 years. Recognizing the historical significance of these sites, Felicia
Felicia’s efforts began with recruiting a diverse team of volunteers, including historians, local preservationists, church members, and descendants of the Gethsemane community. Together, they crafted a multi-phase plan to renovate the Thompson House, celebrate the Gethsemane Baptist Church, and commemorate the Gethsemane School. Each of these landmarks represents a unique chapter in African American history and the central role the Thompson family played in uplifting the community. Their collective efforts are a testament to the power of community in preserving our shared heritage.
The Thompson House
The renovation of the Thompson House is focused on restoring the home’s structural integrity while preserving its original woodwork and historical features. But Felicia's vision doesn’t stop there. Recognizing that the Thompson House, Gethsemane Church, and Gethsemane School are intertwined, she has also spearheaded efforts to rebuild the church’s historic stone foundation and revitalize the school that educated generations of Black children in Fairfield County.
Felicia and her team are currently gathering historical records, oral testimonies, and archival photographs that tell the intertwined stories of the Thompson family, the church, and the school. These efforts aim to preserve the physical structures and share their invaluable history.
With support from the local community and the involvement of Dr. Bobby Donaldson and historical preservation experts, Felicia has made significant progress toward having all three sites—the Thompson House, Gethsemane Baptist Church, and Gethsemane School—recognized by the National Register of Historic Places. This significant step not only ensures their protection but also highlights the role these landmarks played in the struggle for freedom, education, and equality in the post-Reconstruction South, giving us hope for their future.
will continue their legacies as pillars of faith and education. Through these efforts, Felicia is ensuring that the stories of the Thompson family and the Gethsemane community remain a source of inspiration and pride.
September 2024 CityLight.org. | 23
Bunyon Thompson Family
Gethsemane Baptist Church
Bishop Luella J. Redfern, Ph.D. Empowering Esther Women to be Agents of Change
Bishop Luella Redfern, Ph. D., serves as the International Director of Esther Women of Influence (EWOI), a global ministry focused on empowering women through prayer, economic development, and community leadership. Under her dynamic leadership, EWOI has expanded its reach, transforming lives by combining spiritual growth with practical initiatives. Bishop Redfern’s vision emphasizes the importance of creating sustainable change for women, families, and entire communities through faithbased programs that equip women to become leaders in their homes, churches, and societies.
One of the core components of EWOI’s mission is the establishment of prayer groups worldwide. These groups serve as spiritual support networks, allowing women to deepen their relationship with God while also encouraging one another. By focusing on prayer, Bible study, and mentorship, the prayer groups help women strengthen their faith and equip them to face life’s challenges with confidence and grace. These groups have become a foundational aspect of EWOI, bringing together women from diverse backgrounds and uniting them in a common purpose.
independence for women. Through EWOI, she has launched several agro-business initiatives, enabling women to start and manage their own farms and agricultural enterprises. These programs are particularly impactful in rural areas, where opportunities for women to earn a livelihood are often limited. By providing resources and training, EWOI helps women grow and sell crops, creating a sustainable source of income that supports their families and communities.
In addition tospiritual empowerment,
Micro-lending programs are another vital aspect of EWOI’s economic initiatives. These programs offer
Bishop Luella Redfern has strongly emphasized economic
Bishop Luella Redfern has strongly emphasized economic independence for women. Through EWOI, she has launched several agro-business initiatives, enabling women to start and manage their own farms and agricultural enterprises. These programs are particularly impactful in rural areas, where opportunities for women to earn a livelihood are often limited. By providing resources and training, EWOI helps women grow and sell crops, creating a sustainable source of income that supports their families and communities.
Micro-lending programs are another vital aspect of EWOI’s economic initiatives. These programs offer small loans to women who otherwise wouldn’t have access to traditional financial institutions. With the capital provided by these loans, women can start businesses, invest in their children’s education, and improve their overall quality of life. Bishop Redfern has seen
firsthand how these programs have empowered women to lift themselves out of poverty, gain financial independence, and become role models within their communities.
A key collaboration in Bishop Luella Redfern’s mission is with Jasmine Jones, the young founder of the Daughters of Ruth, a youth organization affiliated with EWOI. Jasmine shares Bishop L. Redfern’s passion for education and has focused her efforts on building schools across African countries. Together, EWOI and the Daughters of Ruth have worked to raise funds and build educational facilities, ensuring that girls in rural areas have access to quality Christian education. Jasmine’s leadership and vision align perfectly with Bishop Redfern’s, creating a powerful partnership that continues to make a lasting impact.
The schools built through this collaboration serve more than just
communities, these school buildings are multi-use structures that function as healthcare facilities, council halls, and centers for various community services. These schools provide a safe and nurturing environment for children to learn, while also addressing the broader needs of the community. By offering a place where families can access healthcare, clean water, and other essential services, these schools become a lifeline for rural communities.
Providing tuition for girls in African countries is another critical aspect of the partnership between EWOI and the Daughters of Ruth. Many families in rural areas need help to afford the costs associated with schooling, which often results in girls being left behind. EWOI steps in to bridge this gap, ensuring that girls have access to education and the financial support they need to succeed. This initiative has already helped countless girls pursue their dreams and break the cycle of poverty in their families.
In addition to their work in Africa, Bishop Luella Redfern and EWOI continue to empower women through special events held worldwide. These events range from prayer retreats to leadership conferences, all aimed at equipping women with the spiritual and practical tools they need to thrive. The annual retreats, such as the Myrtle Beach retreat, offer women a chance to step away from the demands of daily life and reconnect with their faith and each other. These events have become a source of renewal and empowerment for many women.
Bishop Luella Redfern’s leadership has inspired countless women to join the Esther Women of Influence and participate in its life-changing work. To expand its reach even further, EWOI has launched a renewed recruitment campaign with the goal of attracting 1,000 new members by May 2025. This ambitious goal reflects Bishop Redfern’s belief that empowering more women through prayer,
mentorship, and economic opportunities will lead to greater community transformation.
The recruitment campaign focuses on connecting with women from all walks of life seeking to make a difference. EWOI offers them a platform to grow spiritually, develop leadership skills, and contribute to the organization’s global mission. By joining EWOI, women become part of a movement that is dedicated to improving the lives of others service, and empowerment. This growth is expected to strengthen the organization’s capacity to impact more communities worldwide.
EWOI’s work is especially important in areas where women face significant challenges, such as poverty, lack of education, and limited access to resources. By addressing these issues head-on, Bishop Redfern and her team have created opportunities for women to rise above their circumstances and become change-makers in theircommunities. Whether through prayer, business ventures, or
Continued on page 31
Esther Women Cultural Center Under construction in Camaroon
A Vision for the Future:
An Alumnus Submits
a
Bold Business Plan for the Booker T. Washington Cultural Center
An Alumnus of Booker T. Washington High School recently submitted a transformative business development plan to the Booker T. Washington High School Foundation Board, outlining a visionary project to create the Booker T. Washington Cultural Center. This proposed center would serve as a cornerstone for educational and cultural programs that honor the school’s rich legacy while addressing current community needs.
The plan calls for creating community programs ranging from educational workshops to cultural events and STEM initiatives, all designed to benefi preserve the values of excellence that defined the historic high school. Recognizing the need for strong leadership, the Alumnus stressed the importance of hiring a professional staff led by a dynamic CEO to ensure effective operations and long-term success.
To secure the financial foundation of the center, the plan proposes establishing an endowment and leveraging New Market Tax Credits, which would attract investors and provide funding for construction and ongoing community initiatives. This innovative funding strategy aims to revitalize the local economy while ensuring the center’s sustainability.
One key recommendation in the plan is the formation of a new subsidiary under the Booker T. Washington High School Foundation. This subsidiary would bring together alumni and descendants of other closed historically Black high schools in South Carolina, forming the South Carolina Association of Historical Black High Schools (SCABHS).
This association would preserve the legacies of these institutions and ensure their contributions are recognized and celebrated. Additionally, the plan introduces the concept of the Millennium Legacy Members—a group of dedicated alumni and supporters who will provide ongoing financial support for the center’s mission. With this strategic approach, the Booker T. Washington Cultural Center is envisioned as a beacon of educational and cultural enrichment while also honoring the legacy of closed Black high schools across the state.
This ambitious plan marks a significant step toward ensuring that Booker T. Washington High School's values—and those of the broader network of closed Black schools—continue to inspire and uplift future generations.
Ecumenical University spearheads an initiative to end health disparities by integrating artificial intelligence (AI)
The university recognizes that inequities in healthcare access and quality disproportionately affect marginalized communities, particularly people of color and those in low-income areas. By leveraging AI, the institution aims to improve diagnostics, streamline care coordination, and provide more equitable, personalized treatment options.
The AI-driven system will enable healthcare providers to access realtime data and patient history, ensuring timely and accurate diagnoses. This approach can particularly bene fi t rural areas where medical resources are scarce, enabling earlier detection of conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and cancer. With AI, medical decisions are based on vast data points, improving the consistency and quality of care. Ecumenical University is also focusing on using AI to address biases in medical treatment, aiming to ensure that underserved communities receive the same level of care as their wealthier counterparts. Through advanced machine learning models, healthcare providers can pinpoint disparities in
treatment plans and outcomes, fostering a system where every patient receives the attention they deserve.
The university's initiative, led by a team of experts in healthcare and technology, is set to revolutionize medical care delivery. Their mission is to treat diseases and prevent them through better health monitoring and predictive analytics, ensuring that health equity becomes the standard, not the exception.
EWOI Continued from page 7 education, EWOI equips women to lead confidently and purposefully.
The collaboration with Jasmine Jones and the Daughters of Ruth adds a dynamic youth element to EWOI’s mission. This partnership expands the scope of EWOI’s work and ensures that the next generation of women is prepared to carry on the legacy of empowerment and service. Through their combined efforts, Bishop Redfern and Jasmine are building a foundation for long-term success, ensuring that the vision of empowering women and girls continues to grow.
As EWOI looks toward the future, Bishop Redfern remains committed to expanding the organization’s impact. With prayer groups, agrobusinesses, micro-lending programs, and educational initiatives at the forefront, EWOI is poised to continue transforming lives. The goal of reaching 1,000 new members by May 2025 is just one step in a broader mission to empower women worldwide,
"X-Maleya Launches Women's Shelter in Cameroon to Combat Gender-Based Violence"
Cameroonian musical group XMaleya is taking a bold step in the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) with the launch of a women's shelter in Yaoundé. The initiative, part of their broader SAFE Project, aims to create a safe and supportive environment for women and girls affected by violence. The shelter will provide critical services, including traumainformed psychosocial care, case management, and access to legal, medical, and socioeconomic support, offering a holistic approach to helping survivors rebuild their lives.
In addition to immediate support, X-Maleya's project focuses on empowering women through vocational training and skills development, allowing them to regain financial independence and reintegrate into society. The shelter will also serve as a hub for community outreach, with educational programs designed to raise awareness about GBV and encourage positive social norms. By involving community leaders and mobilizing local support, X-Maleya aims to foster a culture of gender equality and resilience against violence.
X-Maleya's involvement in combating GBV goes beyond their music, as they leverage their influence to bring attention to this critical issue. With support from partners like the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives and UNFPA, the group is determined to create lasting change. Their women’s shelter is not only a refuge for survivors but a symbol of hope and empowerment for communities across Cameroon, demonstrating the power of art and advocacy in tackling societal challenges.
