LONG TIME DOORMAN BERTHAS
DIXON
BORN 7-18-36
DIED 5-3-25
Worked for T.Smith and Sons on the Riverfront he was a Longshoremen
YOUNG, GIFTED, AND S.T.E.M.
By: KaTrina Chantelle Griffin
In a city celebrated for its music, food, and cultural resilience, one native son is conducting a very different kind of symphony—one made of circuits, coding, and chemistry. Dr. Calvin Mackie, founder and CEO of STEM NOLA and STEM Global Action, is spearheading a national movement to bring highquality STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering,
and Mathematics) education to communities that have too often been left behind.
This year, Dr. Mackie was named Tulane University’s 2025 Outstanding Social Entrepreneur of the Year, an honor bestowed by the Albert Lepage Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation. The accolade was presented at a gala hosted at New Orleans’
Audubon Tea Room and celebrated individuals whose innovations are transforming communities. Dr. Mackie’s honor came alongside recognition of acclaimed chefs Emily and Alon Shaya, highlighting the diversity of entrepreneurship alive in the Crescent City.
But Dr. Mackie’s work isn’t just about innovation—it’s about liberation.
FROM THE CLASSROOM TO THE COMMUNITY
Before founding STEM NOLA, Dr. Mackie built an impressive academic career. He earned a Ph.D. in mechanical engineering and became a tenured professor at Tulane University. But he recognized that the traditional path— prestigious though it may be—wasn’t reaching the kids who needed it most.
So in 2013, with the support of his wife, Tracy Mackie, a registered pharmacist, he stepped out of the classroom and into the streets—
literally. He began holding hands-on STEM sessions in church basements, community centers, and even front yards. That grassroots beginning evolved into STEM NOLA, a nonprofit that would ultimately engage more than 200,000 students nationwide.
By 2024, through its national expansion arm STEM Global Action, the organization had reached nearly 41,000 students in 14 states and 36 cities, delivering culturally responsive, high-impact STEM education to Black and Brown communities often left behind by traditional systems.
WHY STEM? WHY NOW?
Dr. Mackie is crystal clear about the “why” behind his mission.
“The world is being driven by STEM,” he says. “Technology is shaping every sector—from healthcare to agriculture to entertainment. If our kids aren’t equipped to participate in those fields, we’re locking them out of economic mobility and generational wealth.”
The statistics back him up. Black and Hispanic workers make up just 9% and 8% of the STEM workforce, respectively, despite representing
nearly a third of the U.S. population. And while demand for STEM jobs continues to outpace other industries, the access pipeline remains inequitable.
Dr. Mackie’s work is changing that. His programs don’t just teach students how to build robots or code—they show students how to believe in themselves.
“It’s not enough to teach a kid how to do math,” he explains. “You have to show them why it matters. You have to connect it to their world. You have to let them see themselves
as engineers, scientists, inventors.”
And the results are real. In communities where STEM NOLA has taken root, parents report increased academic engagement, higher confidence, and a deeper curiosity about the world around them. Teachers note measurable growth in problem-solving and collaboration skills. And students? They just know they’re doing something powerful.
A FAMILY OF FIRSTS: CAPTAIN AMERICA AND THE STEM
VISIONARY
Dr. Mackie’s success is part of a remarkable family legacy. His younger brother, Anthony Mackie, is a celebrated actor who made history as the first Black Captain America in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. His portrayal of Sam Wilson—a workingclass Black man stepping into one of the most iconic roles in pop culture—has inspired millions.
But the real-life impact of the Mackie brothers extends far beyond Hollywood.
“We come from the same place as so many of these kids,” Dr. Mackie said during a keynote address.
“The same schools, the same challenges, the same odds. Anthony chose acting to change the narrative. I chose education. We just want young people to know— they get to choose too.”
Their synergy is palpable. Anthony has supported STEM NOLA’s work, appearing at events and
lending his platform to amplify the mission. The brothers see their work as two sides of the same coin: reimagining representation and expanding possibility.
When Anthony became Captain America, Dr. Mackie shared a photo of them together on social media with a simple, powerful caption: Two brothers. Two heroes. One mission—empower the next generation.
SCALING IMPACT: FROM LOCAL LEGACY TO NATIONAL MOVEMENT
Though it began in New Orleans, STEM NOLA is now a national model. Through Tech Camps, STEM Saturdays, and STEM Fests, students receive hands-on exposure to subjects ranging from aerospace to biomedical
engineering to climate science. The organization also leverages the power of college student mentors, industry partners, and community volunteers to scale its reach.
In 2021, STEM NOLA received the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring, the nation’s highest honor for organizations working to broaden participation in STEM. And in 2025, the organization unveiled a new 42,000 sq. ft. STEM Innovation Hub in New Orleans East, further cementing its role as a
powerhouse of education transformation.
But Dr. Mackie is thinking even bigger.
“Our dream is a million kids engaging in STEM every weekend. STEM on every block. STEM in every barbershop, every community center, every home,” he said in a recent interview. “Because STEM is the future—and our kids belong in that future.”
Beyond the Buzzwords: Real Equity, Real Outcomes
Dr. Mackie is often asked about the secret to
STEM NOLA’s success. His answer is simple: community trust.
“Too many programs are designed for communities, not with them,” he explains. “We listen first. We meet people where they are. And we show up consistently.”
That consistency has been key to building relationships with families, schools, and local leaders. It’s why parents continue bringing their children to STEM events month after month. It’s why college students become lifelong mentors. And it’s why major corporations and
philanthropic foundations are investing in STEM Global Action to replicate the model nationwide.
But Mackie is careful not to get caught up in the hype.
“This isn’t about charity,” he says. “This is about capacity. Our communities are brilliant. They just need the opportunity to shine.”
LOOKING FORWARD: FROM STEM TO SYSTEMIC CHANGE
Dr. Mackie’s vision extends well beyond classrooms. He’s pushing for broader policy reform, workforce investment, and institutional accountability.
He’s advocated for K–12 funding equity, proposed state-level strategies to scale STEM access, and championed partnerships between HBCUs and STEM employers. His organization actively tracks metrics on program impact, college enrollment, and job placement to ensure real, measurable outcomes.
“Every child is born with genius,” Dr. Mackie says. “The question is whether the system sees it—and supports it.”
At the 2025 Tulane gala, he reminded attendees that social entrepreneurship isn’t about saving people—it’s about empowering them to save themselves.
A Hero in His Own Right
In a world hungry for authentic leadership, Dr. Calvin Mackie is the real deal. Grounded, brilliant, and unapologetically devoted to his community, he’s reshaping what it means to be a scientist, an entrepreneur, and a servant leader.
His brother may wear the shield on screen, but Calvin Mackie is Captain America in real life— fighting for a future where every child, no matter their background, can build and dream and soar.
YOUNG.
GIFTED. AND STEMPOWERED. THE REVOLUTION HAS ALREADY BEGUN.
AFFORDABLE LIVING
RAHSAANA ISON
By: Rahsaana Ison
Rahsaana Ison is a dynamic New Orleansborn creative force — a singer, actress, playwright, studio teacher to the stars, and founder of the revolutionary sound known as Jazzy Bounce (aka Jaounce).
As the visionary behind the Gorgeously Gray movement, she’s empowering Black women to reclaim their roots — silver strands and all. Whether directing youth theater, writing powerful stage plays, or celebrating the legacy of New Orleans music, Rahsaana blends rhythm, purpose, and unapologetic flair. She doesn’t just perform culture — she creates it.
Rahsaana Ison is a lifelong native of New Orleans and a passionate connoisseur of all things art. Immersed in music, fine art, and literature from an early age by her mother, Rahsaana’s artistic journey began when she won her first writing competition in the 3rd grade. Currently serving as a dedicated studio teacher, theater educator, and the proud mother of two young adults, she continues to nurture creativity and imagination in herself and others.
Rahsaana is a prolific playwright, actress,
singer-songwriter, and distinguished jazz vocalist who has recently introduced an innovative musical genre known as Jazzy Bounce or Jaounce— sounds indigenous to her beloved New Orleans. Her deep musical roots stem from a long lineage of musicians, enriching her performances and creative works with authentic, soulful resonance.
As an author whose passion for literature sparked early and flourished into writing children’s books, stage plays, and musicals,
Rahsaana’s insatiable curiosity and imaginative spirit captivate diverse audiences. Her compelling storytelling, combined with a unique blend of vibrant New Orleans musical traditions, positions Rahsaana Ison as an influential voice and visionary in contemporary art and culture.
Rahsaana has a new hit song and line dance to accompany the smooth jazz and bounce sounds together, titled Mister Magic.
I’m Candy Mathieu! The Head Queen Networker in Charge of Networking with Queens, we’re a Social & Pleasure Sisterhood for Leo Women ONLY
However, as Leo Women we believe in community and love, support and collaborate with all women.
networkingwithqueens. wixsite.com/mysite/ paytonetwork
ESSENCE FESTIVAL 2025: WHERE CULTURE, COMMUNITY & CRESCENT CITY MAGIC COLLIDE
Every summer, New Orleans does what it does best—turns the volume all the way up on culture, joy, and unapologetic Black excellence. And in 2025, the Essence Festival of Culture is back and bolder than ever, ready to ignite the city with four days of music, empowerment, style, and soul food that you just can’t find anywhere else.
Now in its 31st year, Essence Fest is more than a festival. It’s a pilgrimage. A reunion. A celebration of Black womanhood, creativity, and resilience. From July 3–6, hundreds of thousands of people from across the globe will pour into the Crescent City, transforming it into a vibrant sea of melanin, movement, and magic.
A STARSTUDDED MUSICAL LINEUP YOU CAN’T MISS
Let’s be clear—Essence knows how to do a stage. The 2025 lineup promises a mix of living legends, chart-topping icons, and rising stars that span genres and generations.
Headlining this year:
• Usher, bringing his Vegas-residencylevel energy back to the Superdome, this time with a 30th anniversary celebration of My Way.
• Megan Thee Stallion, who’s returning with a new album and a fierce reminder that hot girls never left.
• Charlie Wilson, the forever-favorite uncle of R&B, promising a soul-stirring, twostepping good time.
• And Jazmine Sullivan, whose powerhouse vocals will surely leave the Dome speechless once again.
New Orleans own Trombone Shorty, Tank and the Bangas, and PJ Morton will be repping for the home team—because it wouldn’t be Essence without the sound of brass, bounce, and soul rooted in the city that birthed jazz itself.
EMPOWERMENT THAT HITS HOME
Essence isn’t just about the music—it’s also about the movement. During the day, the Convention Center becomes the festival’s heart and brain: a buzzing hub of thought leadership, policy discussion, beauty activations, and wellness experiences.
THE ESSENCE
EMPOWERMENT
Experience returns with panels and keynotes that hit on everything from reproductive justice and Black maternal health to wealth building,
tech equity, and civic engagement. Expect appearances from powerhouse women like Tarana Burke, Nikole Hannah-Jones, Mayor Karen Bass, and Tracee Ellis Ross, just to name a few.
This year, the festival introduces the “Legacy
Lounge”, a new space designed to honor generational wisdom with conversations led by civil rights elders, cultural icons, and scholars exploring the enduring legacy of Black resistance and joy.
STYLE THAT SHUTS IT DOWN
Let’s talk fashion— because Essence is a runway, and the people are the main event. From custom Ankara prints to perfectly styled locs, from 90’s throwbacks to cutting-edge couture, the looks never miss.
New for 2025: the “Style & Street” Pavilion, where fashion houses and indie designers alike will showcase collections that blend Diaspora tradition with modern edge. Expect fashion shows, beauty masterclasses, and even on-the-spot makeovers by celebrity stylists and MUA royalty.
Pro tip: Come dressed to be photographed. This isn’t just about what
you’re wearing—it’s about how you wear it. Essence fashion is bold, joyful, and entirely unapologetic.
THE FLAVOR OF THE CITY
No trip to New Orleans is complete without a plate full of gumbo, a fried shrimp po’boy, or the holy grail: beignets dusted in powdered sugar. And Essence Fest serves as the perfect
excuse to indulge. Food vendors this year are being curated with a renewed focus on local Black-owned restaurants and chefs. Look out for pop-ups from New Orleans staples like Dooky Chase’s, Lil Dizzy’s, Willie Mae’s Scotch House, and vegan soul innovator Sweet Soulfood.
The Cultural Cuisine Corner, set up just outside the convention
center, is the place to be between sessions. This year’s theme: “Taste of the Diaspora,” where Caribbean, African, and Southern dishes will sit side by side in delicious unity.
WHY ESSENCE
IS SO NEW ORLEANS
Yes, the Essence brand is global. Yes, it’s backed by national sponsors and draws A-list talent. But let’s not forget—this
festival is New Orleans to its core.
From the moment you step off the plane and hear a second line at baggage claim, to the way Bourbon Street pulses with after-hours energy, the city is the
soul of Essence. It’s in the sound of brass bands playing on Frenchmen, in the scent of crawfish boiling on corners, in the rhythm of Black joy that bubbles up like a pot of red beans.
The locals know it. The tourists feel it. And that’s why Essence has to continue deepening its investment in the local community.
There’s a growing call to ensure that more New Orleans-based artists, vendors, and youth organizations are centered in the festival experience. Cultural gatekeepers—from Masking Indians to Social Aid and Pleasure Clubs—deserve a greater platform. After all, Essence couldn’t thrive anywhere else.
A FESTIVAL WITH IMPACT
Beyond the celebration, Essence has a serious economic footprint. In 2024, the festival pumped an estimated $300 million into the local economy. Hotels, restaurants, retail shops, rideshares, and gig workers all benefit from the influx of tourists.
But the impact is also emotional. This is a space where Black women are prioritized, celebrated, and seen. A space where generations gather— mothers, daughters, aunties, cousins—to reconnect, recharge, and revel.
And for the city of New Orleans, still navigating
post-pandemic recovery, Essence is more than an event. It’s a lifeline.
Whether it’s your first Essence Fest or your fifteenth, there’s nothing like being in New Orleans for that first night in the Dome, surrounded by thousands of people who look like you, feel like you, and are ready to dance, think, heal, and shine. Essence Festival 2025 isn’t just a party. It’s a promise—to uplift, to empower, to celebrate Black culture in all its glory—and to always do it with that signature New Orleans flavor.
LAISSEZ LES BONS TEMPS ROULER— ESSENCE STYLE.
BERNETTE ‘JOSHUA’ JOHNSON
BOOK COMING SOON
INSPIRED BY HIS WORD
by Laverne Woods Dunn
SCRIPTURE ENCOURAGES US TO REMEMBER WHAT GOD HAS DONE IN YOUR LIFE AND TALK ABOUT IT TO OUR CHILDREN AND OTHERS. I WILL EXALT YOU, MY GOD AND KING, AND PRAISE YOUR NAME FOREVER AND EVER. I WILL PRAISE YOU EVERY DAY; YES I WILL PRAISE YOU FOREVER. GREAT IS THE LORD! HE IS MOST WORTHY OF PRAISE! NO ONE CAN MEASURE HIS GREATNESS. LET EACH GENERATION TELL ITS CHILDREN OF YOUR MIGHTLY ACTS; LET THEM PROVLAIM YOUR POWER. I WILL MEDITATE ON YOUR MAJESTIC, GLORIOUS SPLENDOR AND YOUR WONDERFUL MIRACLES.
PSALMS 145:1-5 NLT
8
Fresh Food Assasin
1900 N Claiborne Ave, New Orleans, LA 70116
504.224.2628
Asante Foundation
2635 Aubry St.
New Orleans, LA 70119
504.416.9699
Ashe’ Cultural Arts Center
1712/1724 O.C. Haley Blvd.
New Orleans, LA 70113
504.569.9070
Beaucoup Eats
2323 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70119
504.603.4888
Beep-Me
Plumbing, Heating & A/C
419 S Salcedo St #2, New Orleans, LA 70119
Ben Council
Attorney at Law
419 S Salcedo St #2, New Orleans, LA 70119
Bright Moments
2249 C Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. New Orleans, LA 70113
504.592.1800
Cafe’ Reconcile
1631 O. C. Haley Blvd.
New Orleans, LA 70113
504.568.1157
Carney Auto Title & So. Security School Inc. 2518 Tulane Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70119
504-352-6038
Central City Economic Opportunity Corporation
2020 Jackson Ave
New Orleans, LA 70113
504.524.3484
The Boulevard Business Directory
Central City Senior Program
2010 Phillip Street
New Orleans, LA 70113
504.524.3484 ext.116
Charles F. Webb
6600 Plaza Dr. #210
New Orleans, La 70127
504.242.1781
Cresent City Pharmacy
2240 Simon Bolivar Ave. Ste A
New Orleans, LA 70113
504.267.4100
Community Connection Programs, Inc.
1332 O. C. Haley Blvd.
New Orleans, LA 70113
504.522.4304
Connect 2 Black 2635 Aubry St.
New Orleans, LA 70119
504.416.9699
Dryades YMCA
2220 Oretha Castle
Haley Blvd.
New Orleans, LA 70113
504.299.4310
FFLIC
1307 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. New Orleans, LA 70113
504.708.8376
Franklin Avenue
Baptist Church
7 O’Clock Dental
2101 So. Claiborne Ave, Ste F
New Orleans, LA 70113
504.309.3077
Good Work Network
2024 O. C. Haley Blvd.
New Orleans, LA 70113
504.309.2073
Good Look Creative goodlookcreative.com
504.383.4426
Gulf Coast Housing Partnership
1610-A O. C. Haley Blvd. New Orleans, LA 70113
504.525.2505
HOPE Community Credit Union
1726 O.C. Haley Blvd.
New Orleans, LA 70113
504.585.2858
Hot Spot Barber and Beauty Salon
1416 Simon Bolivar Ave. New Orleans, LA 70113
504.581.9633
Juvenile Justice Project of LA
2018 O. C. Haley Blvd. New Orleans, LA 70113
504.522.5437
Liberty Bank 6600 Plaza Drive
New Orleans, LA 70127
800-883-3943
Mackie One Construction MackieOneConstruction.com
504.821.1530
Majestic Mortuary Services
1833 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. New Orleans, LA 70113
504.523.5872
Natural Sisters Lock Alliance 11020 Roger Dr
New Orleans, LA 70127
504.344.8360
New Orleans Driving School 2518 Tulane Avenue New Orleans, LA 70119
504-821-5334
New Orleans Jazz Orchestra/Jazz Market 1436 Oretha Castle Haley, Blvd. New Orleans, LA 70113
504.301.9006
NOLA.Tv
2635 Aubry St. New Orleans, LA 70119
504.416.9699
O.C. Haley Blvd. Merchants & Business Association
1712 O.C. Haley Blvd, Unit 302 New Orleans, LA 70113
504.528.1806
Piety & Desire Chocolate
2727 S. Broad Street New Orleans, LA 70125
Richard Disposal Inc. 11600 Old Gentilly Road New Orleans, LA 70129
504.241.2142
Smiley’s Grill New Orleans 3716 Downman Rd, New Orleans, LA 70126
504. 248.7270
Swanson & Associates, Inc 5301 Elysian Fields Avenue New Orleans, LA 70122
504.821.0303
Up&Adam Eatz
3903 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70119
504.708.7237
Vyoone’s Restaurant
412 Girod St. New Orleans, LA 70130
504.518.6007
