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Build on the Roots of Remarkable Impact
Giving back is important to you — especially during the season of giving. Wherever your charitable passions and priorities lie, you can make an even greater impact by giving through your local community foundation.
Join Foundation For Black Philanthropy for Rhythm & Roots: Jazz, Blues and You on November 13 at The Carolina Theatre . Enjoy performances by legendary and local artists and honor Charlotte’s Black philanthropic leaders who shape our city. Ticket information is available at www.fftc.org/FFBP.
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Your values inspire vision
By Steve Bagwell CEO of the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority
Charlotte Is a City That Shines Through Its People
At the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority, we are proud to share that story each day, promoting our city as a leading destination for leisure travel, meetings, conventions and events. We also have the privilege of managing some of the region’s most recognized gathering places, including the Charlotte Convention Center, Bojangles Entertainment Complex, the NASCAR Hall of Fame and Spectrum Center.
Our mission reaches beyond tourism. We believe the visitor economy should reflect the people who make Charlotte what it is. That means supporting diverse voices, celebrating local stories and ensuring opportunity is shared across every neighborhood and community.
Charlotte’s growth and spirit are grounded in belonging. Whether it is passing around a plate at Uptown Yolk, cheering on the Hornets or finding joy at the Durag Festival, visitors experience a city that welcomes them and values who they are.
Through efforts that uplift Black-owned and multicultural businesses and through platforms such as Charlotte Love Notes that celebrate the voices of our community, we are telling a story that honors everyone who calls Charlotte home.
Together, we are shaping a city that inspires pride, connection and possibility. We invite you to experience the warmth of the Queen City, where every visit feels like coming home.
Steve Bagwell, CEO Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority (CRVA)
Photo courtesy of the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority
CEO/Publisher
Dee Dixon
Editor
Alicia Michele Benjamin
Copy Editor
Sonja Whitemon
Lead Writer
Angela Lindsay
Creative Director
Larry Preslar
Design & Production
SPARK Publications
www.SPARKpublications.com
Distribution
©Watch Dog Entertainment® LLC
Digital Content Distribution
Account Executive
Nikelle Fesperman
Public Relations
Nepherterra Estrada Best
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All rights reserved. Copying or reproduction, in part or in whole, is strictly prohibited.
Pride Magazine reserves the right to deny any advertisement, listing or feature that does not meet Pride Magazine standards or that is outside the scope or mission of our magazine. Pride Magazine assumes no responsibility for information, products, services, or statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.
Vol. 33 No. 6 November–December 2025 All rights reserved for PRIDE Communications Inc. Pride Magazine prints with soy ink. Find us on Facebook: Facebook.com/PrideMagazineNC Find us on Instagram: @pridemagazinenc Find us on LinkedIn: Pride Communications, Inc.
Charlotte’s African-American Magazine
By Dee Dixon
Print and Print Advertising Still Matter
Let’s face it folks — we are no longer in control. Algorithms are. Think about it. The onus is on us to do more and more online, from paying bills, making appointments, checking test results from doctors, conferring with teachers, reviewing bank statements and the list goes on and on! There’s an app for everything; each requiring yet another username and password. Simply reading an article online becomes a humungous challenge thanks to all the endless pop-ups, auto-play videos and other distractions fighting for our attention. In addition, let’s not forget the ever-present scams lurking around every click, waiting to devour. Help me somebody!
I’m not alone
According to a Two Sides Trend Tracker 2025 survey, 68% of consumers reported they understand and retain information better when reading on paper compared to screens. This survey also reveals while the digital world is convenient, print is more trustworthy and less likely to be misleading. People like the tangible feel of paper and it’s easier on the eyes.
Now here’s something for the record. According to Media Max, younger generations, Gen Z and Millennials, are turning towards print. They are in search of credible content and a break from screen fatigue. They find a sense of nostalgia and
find the tactile (sense of touch) experience of print appealing.
So, what about advertising?
According to MaketingSherpa, studies consistently reveal that 82% of readers trust print ads over digital.
With this in mind, I decided to ask ChatGPT about advertising in Pride Magazine. The answer was amazingly spot on. Let me quote what it spit back at me instantly.
“In today’s fast-paced world of algorithms and fleeting digital ads, Pride Magazine offers something rare — a trusted, tangible and culturally rooted space for brands to connect with a loyal audience. The publication has been the heartbeat of Charlotte’s African American community for over 30 years and advertising with Pride means more than visibility — it means legacy, impact and community trust.”
Furthermore, let me share a few more reasons to advertise with Pride:
• It’s trusted by readers
• Less ad clutter and fewer distractions
• Long shelf life — Pride is read and reread with high pass-along activity
• Precise demographic targeting
• Supports powerful local story telling
• Brand visibility is elevated
• Complements and enhances digital campaigns
Bottom line
Print is not dying. It’s evolving. In a world oversaturated with algorithms and ads that vanish in half a second, readers are overwhelmed, stressed and exhausted. Pride Magazine and the advertising therein remain a meaningful, credible and enjoyable experience — deeply rooted in legacy and culture. P
MILLS AUTOMOTIVE GROUP
Driven by Family, Built for You
For over 20 years, Mills Automotive Group has been more than a place to buy a car—we’ve been a part of the community. As a proud family-owned business with more than 35 dealerships and 29 trusted brands, we make it easy to find the right vehicle for every stage of life.
What sets us apart is simple: we put people first. From your very first test drive to years of trusted service, our team is here to treat you like family and make sure you drive away with confidence.
Whether it’s a reliable first car, a family SUV, or that dream ride you’ve been working toward, we’re committed to helping you get there. Because at Mills Automotive Group, your journey matters.
NOTABLE NAMES
By Charles Harris
RACHEAL BAKER, CRVA, ASSISTANT GENERAL COUNSEL
Racheal Baker serves as Assistant General Counsel for CRVA, a position she’s held for just over a year. “A major part of my role has been working on real estate transactions, construction projects, and procurement/ contracting,” said Baker. “My goal is always to make sure these complex projects not only get done but get done in a way that moves Charlotte forward.”
Baker, a native of Northampton County, completed her undergraduate program in English, African American Studies and Women and Gender Studies from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She earned her master’s and law degree from UNC-Chapel Hill with a concentration on city and regional planning.
Baker said she especially appreciates the impact of her work with CRVA. “Each [project] has the potential to change the trajectory of the city or create new opportunities for the people who live here,” she said.
Baker also works as a legal advisor to small business owners, nonprofits and mission-driven projects on real estate, land use and business strategy. “I get great joy from helping people bring their visions to life, especially when those visions contribute to stronger, more inclusive cities,” she said. “The opportunity to contribute to city-building in this way is something I’m deeply passionate about.”
This passion is something that carries over into her CRVA work as well. “Economic development is about more than venues and investments. It’s about shaping the places where people live, work and thrive,” Baker said. “CRVA has a unique position in making sure our region grows thoughtfully, equitably and sustainably.”
KEVIN THOMAS, CRVA, DIRECTOR OF DEI
GERARD LITTLEJOHN, OWNER OF CREATORS COLLAB
Gerard Littlejohn, 40, is the owner of Creators Collab, a Charlotte-based video production company specializing in culturally driven storytelling.
“We work to create content that authentically connects with multicultural audiences,” said Littlejohn, a University of North Carolina at Charlotte graduate.
CRVA has partnered with Creators Collab to develop exclusive content aimed at engaging diverse and often overlooked minority groups. “Our goal is to bridge the gap where brands often miss cultural cues and diverse creatives lack opportunities,” he said.
Littlejohn recently oversaw the creation of the “Charlotte Love Notes” video series for the CRVA Charlotte’s Got A Lot website. “For the Charlotte Love Notes project, we supported the production and creative execution of a campaign that uplifts the voices of Hispanic, Latino, Afro-Latino, and Latin American residents,” he said. The video shorts each tell the story of a Charlotte-area couple who are also involved in local business.
“We deeply appreciate CRVA’s commitment to authentic representation and its mission to elevate community prosperity,” Littlejohn, a married father of two explained. “We value their commitment to partnering with local creatives who reflect the diversity of our community.”
Littlejohn calls CRVA a “vital asset” to the region’s economic progress. “[CRVA] in turn creates jobs and opportunities,” he said. “CRVA’s initiatives to engage with diverse partners speaks to the organization not only driving economic growth but also fosters a welcoming and inclusive cultural environment for diverse suppliers like Creators Collab.”
Kevin Thomas, 46, is the first person to fill the role of CRVA Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion since the position was created three years ago. In this position, Thomas works to develop, support and maintain an employee-centered culture of engagement and involvement.
“The reason I love working for CRVA is their core values. We want everyone to feel included,” said the Miami native and Johnson C. Smith University graduate. Thomas, who spent almost two decades as a diversity educator, is also proud to be part of an organization that has done so much for the Queen City.
“We’re really about growing the city, making it a place where people want to visit and people want to live,” he said. “[Charlotte] has become one of the most viable cities in the South, and CRVA has had a lot to do with that.”
Thomas, who has a 13-year-old daughter, is also the creator and curator of Black Xperience 365, a traveling Black history exhibit featuring art and artifacts related to centuries of Black culture. “Our mission is to gather, engage and educate by celebrating and encouraging all to truly appreciate the invaluable contributions and achievements made [by Black people],” he said.
By Dawn HiltonWilliams
The Digital Table: Reshaping the Feed, Reclaiming the Plate
Screens hold a permanent seat at our tables now and with strong Black buying power and higher-than-average media use, every click and pause becomes profit for companies that track, sell and trade our data. What we see online mirrors the food apartheid too many of us live offline where choices are limited, defaults are unhealthy and profit is built on our harm. But the good news is we harness the power to retrain the feed, reclaim the plate and reset the legacy we pass on.
Access in the Aisles
Access is rarely equal, with food and beverage companies pouring nearly $14 billion a year into advertising, directing most of it to fast food, candy, cereal and sugary drinks while targeting Black and Brown communities with precision.
Every placement, from candy at the register to chips set at a child’s eye level, is designed to move products that erode health, and both corporations and retailers understand the harm before the products ever reach the shelves. The same logic drives our digital feeds, where algorithms amplify the products that profit bottom lines, not health lines.
Separating Fact from Feed
The hardest challenge is shaking loose what’s real from what’s designed to keep us consuming. Algorithms don’t just track what we search; they track where we pause. Stop on a candy ad or a flashy food reel and the feed fills with more of the same. What looks like education is often marketing in disguise, pushing products that profit corporations, not people.
Separating truth from hype means seeking out educators and influencers who cite science, respect culture and budget and teach skills you can use in your own kitchen. It also means recognizing that much of what passes for advice is really a paid campaign. The safeguard is holding tight to whole food, plant-based principles, even when the feed tries to bury them.
Evidence and Healing
Dr. Brooke Goldner, MD, has documented lupus and autoimmune patients whose symptoms resolved within weeks and stayed in remission for years when they flooded their plates with raw greens, cruciferous vegetables, plant-based omega-3s and water while cutting out processed foods. Her findings echo what’s been published across the field of lifestyle medicine and nutrition science. Thousands of physicians, along with researchers and organizations like the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, confirm that whole food, plantbased nutrition can prevent, arrest and even reverse many of the lifestyle-driven illnesses that devastate families: high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes. These outcomes aren’t random; they’re the predictable result of what fills our plates and patterns our lives. That science shows up in everyday foods. Fiber from beans and greens helps lower blood pressure, cutting saturated fat lowers LDL cholesterol, and a steady plate of whole plants drives repair across the body, restoring balance, protecting against disease and fueling long-term health. When we turn our kitchens into farmacies, we don’t just change the menu, we change the outcome.
Shift to Change
If the feed can be trained by clicks, our bodies can be trained by habits. Start with these shifts:
1 Build at least three meals this week with leafy greens, beans, whole grains or root veggies.
2 Swap processed snacks for fruit or a handful of nuts you’ve portioned ahead.
3 Share this column and its recipe with two friends and an elder, asking them to cook it, post the results and tag you so the ripple spreads.
Legacy on the Plate
The digital table is already set. What we choose to click, cook and share doesn’t just fill our plates today, it sets the table for the generations that follow. The choices are clear: a legacy of preventable lifestyle-driven chronic illness and profit-driven traps, or one of health, equity and truth. That legacy is recalibrated each time we reach for food that restores and reject the systems that profit from our harm. P
Scan the QR code below to view the recipe for Easy Purple Cabbage by chef Dawn Hilton-Williams.
Proud to Serve Those Who Protect
By Angela Haigler
From the Planets, Southern Gothic Tales and More: Great Reads for the Fall & Winter
“Psychopomp
& Circumstance”
by Eden Royce
Eden Royce’s Pomp shimmers with the eerie beauty of a hymn sung under moonlight. Phee St. Margaret’s journey through grief, legacy and selfdetermination unfolds like a Southern Gothic spell — equal parts haunting and healing. Royce blends magic, memory and womanhood with an elegance that lingers. Every mirror in this story reflects more than it shows. It’s a bold, graceful debut that reclaims the Gothic for Black Southern womanhood.
“Just Visiting This Planet: Revised and Updated for the Twenty-First Century” by
Neil deGrasse Tyson
Just Visiting This Planet is Neil deGrasse Tyson at his most playful — science served with a wink and wonder. Through Merlin’s cosmic Q&A, Tyson reminds us that curiosity is its own form of travel. Each question bends your mind just enough to make you look up a little longer. It’s astronomy without the ego, full of laughter and awe. A delightful orbit through mystery, mischief and meaning.
“Catacombs”
by William Demby
The Catacombs feels like a voice calling out from the deep — revived, resonant, and still ahead of its time. Bill Demby blurs the line between writer and witness, truth and invention, until you can’t tell where life stops and story begins. Set in Rome but rooted in the Black expatriate experience, it hums with tension and self-interrogation. Reading it now feels like opening a time capsule and finding your own reflection inside. A rediscovered classic that reminds us genius doesn’t expire — it just waits to be heard again.
Children’s Choice
“Black,
White, Colored:
The
Hidden Story
of an
Insurrection,
a
Family,
a
Southern Town, and Identity
in
America” by Lauretta Malloy Noble and LeeAnet Noble
Black, White, Colored pulls back the curtain on a buried chapter of American history with both rigor and reverence. The Nobles reclaim the story of Laurinburg’s Black excellence — and the violent attempt to erase it — with a researcher’s precision and a descendant’s heart. Their work restores dignity where history tried to draw a blank. Every page feels like an act of truth-telling and homecoming. This is remembrance as resistance, beautifully done.
“Searching for Mr. Johnson’s Song” by Ariel Vanece; Illustrated by Jade Orlando (Children’s Choice)
Searching for Mr. Johnson’s Song is a tender reminder that connection doesn’t require perfection of memory — just heart. Caius’s quest to find his neighbor’s lost song unfolds like a quiet hymn to community and care. Ariel Vanece captures the ache and beauty of aging with grace, never pity. The story hums with warmth, sunlight, and front-porch wisdom. It’s a gentle masterpiece about remembering what really matters. P
Atrium Health Levine Children’s Adds Virtual Well-Child Care Option for Kids
New primary care model offers well-child and sick visits virtually for active, on-the-go families
For families juggling busy schedules, finding time for medical appointments can be a challenge, but with the latest virtual care advancements from Atrium Health Levine Children’s, parents can now consult with dedicated pediatricians for more than just sick visits. The launch of Atrium Health Levine Children’s Pediatrics Virtual gives families the ability to receive well-child care and follow-up care from the comfort of their own home.
Offering extended hours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week, Levine Children’s new pediatric virtual primary care practice provides the flexibility to receive the same high-quality, comprehensive care provided at a traditional in-person primary care office, just in a place that is most convenient and comfortable for families.
“We are thrilled to introduce pediatric virtual primary care to leverage technology in a way that makes primary care more accessible for families while still providing the same trusted support they need to keep their children healthy and happy,” said Callie Dobbins, senior vice president of Atrium Health Levine Children’s. “The virtual well-child care option is a gamechanger for delivering preventive care in a more flexible, but thorough manner.”
Atrium Health Levine Children’s Pediatrics Virtual provides a range of offerings addressing preventive care, including well-child visits; common health concerns, such as respiratory infections and skin conditions; chronic condition management, like asthma; behavioral health conditions, such as anxiety; and medication management.
“Our goal with pediatric virtual primary care was to create a solution that was easier and less stressful for time-crunched families,” said Dr. Lyn Nuse, senior medical director of primary care at Atrium Health Levine Children’s. “Virtual primary care is an excellent option for families who prefer reduced in-office time, need more flexible
scheduling and want distraction-free time with their provider.”
During virtual well-child visits, the pediatrician reviews the child’s medical history and gives a quick assessment of the child through the video platform by asking the child to move around, speak or perform simple tasks to observe their development. After this part of the visit, the child may leave the call while the caregiver has dedicated time to ask questions and discuss the child’s development, behavior, nutrition, sleep, mental health and more. At the end of the discussion, a Levine Children’s teammate schedules a brief in-person follow-up visit at a nearby in-person pediatric practice for another provider to conduct a brief physical exam and provide vaccinations or order lab work as needed.
“We’ve thoughtfully designed our virtual practice model to include strong
partnerships with in-person practices and locations so that we can provide comprehensive well-child care and manage conditions that require hands-on evaluation,” said Nuse. “The model also works in reverse where an in-person pediatrician can refer a child for follow-up treatment with a virtual provider who can spend more time explaining a condition, medications and daily management, all at the convenience of the family’s schedule.”
Virtual visits are user-friendly and compatible with desktop computers, laptops, smartphones or tablets so that families can participate in a setting that is most comfortable for them.
Learn more about Atrium Health Levine Children’s Pediatrics Virtual and what non-urgent, urgent and emergency care options are available for families 24/7.
Charlotte Welcomes Black Travelers with Culture and Connection
By Loán Lake
Black leisure travelers in the U.S. spend an annual average of $145 billion, and they’re shaking up the travel industry, according to a fall 2024 study by MMGY Travel Intelligence and the National Coalition of Black Meeting Planners (NCBMP).
Top Left: Visitors take in an exhibit at the Sullenberger Aviation Museum
Bottom Left: Guests enjoy a swing at the Wildwoods Playground, part of the U.S. National Whitewater Center in Charlotte
Center Right: Visitors enjoying a stroll through the McGill Rose Garden on North Davidson Street in Charlotte
A report from DK Shifflet’s TRAVEL PERFORMANCE/MonitorSM, which gathered feedback from 2,000 Black leisure travelers, and an online survey of 200 NCBMP members, offer detailed analysis of Black leisure travelers’ plans, motivations and spending habits.
Charged with delivering experiences that enrich the lives of visitors and residents, this data helps the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority (CRVA) determine how Charlotte is positioned in this important market.
CRVA maximizes the region’s economic potential by encouraging visitor spending and creating jobs and opportunities for the community through its promotion of the Charlotte Convention Center, Spectrum Center, Bojangles Entertainment Complex, NASCAR Hall of Fame, Charlotte Film Commission and Visit Charlotte.
According to CRVA Tourism Brand Manager Chacara Harvin, Charlotte is at the heart of Black travel in the United States.
“MMGY’s findings show that the South attracts the largest percentage (32%) of U.S. Black leisure travelers, and North Carolina ranks #7 in the nation, just ahead of Georgia. Couple that with Charlotte’s
Photo courtesy of Jamey Price
identity as the state’s largest city, with the world’s 6th busiest airport, its cultural heartbeat, and you see why we’re naturally positioned to meet this audience,” said Harvin.
With a plethora of restaurants, hotels, a nationally recognized airport, and a variety of activities for travelers to indulge in, Charlotte’s infrastructure and accessibility have a lot to do with it. Since 79% of Black overnight leisure trips are made by car, Charlotte’s location along Interstate 85 provides a natural advantage. Additionally, Visit North Carolina, the state’s tourism marketing agency, reported that Mecklenburg County led the state’s tourism economy with $6.4 billion in visitor spending in 2024.
Promoting the fun and excitement of Charlotte
What this means for Charlotte is that Black travel is no longer a niche market. It is a movement that is driving and shaping leisure tourism globally – where travelers are seeking culturally diverse destinations that are appealing, affordable, and accessible. As part of its strategy, the CRVA taps into the 42 percent of visiting friends
and relatives who rely on recommendations from their loved ones, and 15 percent of travelers who come to the Queen City for special events.
The Brand Marketing team proactively promotes Charlotte as a choice destination in the Southeast through original storytelling and with the help of digital influencers, online travel communities and travel media. Online campaigns such as “Charlotte Love Notes,” which aired on CRVA’s social media channels, features high-profile, local couples who provide travelers with a personal view of the city.
“Our digital audience responded with the highest engagement in CRVA history — showing that authentic representation resonates deeply with audiences. Since then, we have launched three new installments of Love Notes focusing on the LGBTQ+, Asian-American and Pacific Islander and Latino/Hispanic communities in Charlotte,” Harvin said.
CRVA also highlights other fun and adventurous events and attractions in the area such as the Sullenberger Aviation Museum, an aviation museum on the grounds of Charlotte Douglas International Airport, the Whitewater Center and McGill Rose Garden near NoDa.
The aviation museum’s mission is to educate and inspire young people to explore careers in aviation and aerospace. They offer an immersive experience where visitors can explore the aircraft and artifact collections, and diverse figures that shaped aviation history. Visitors get to experience the museum’s extensive collection of aircraft, artifacts and several interactive exhibits.
The intentionality does not stop there. Last year, Harvin and her team partnered with NOMADNESS Travel Tribe, a global travel community, to host NOMADNESS Fest at Camp North End. The festival brought hundreds of BIPOC travelers, writers, content creators and media to
“MMGY’s findings show that the South attracts the largest percentage (32%) of U.S. Black leisure travelers, and North Carolina ranks #7 in the nation, just ahead of Georgia.”
—Chacara Harvin
experience Charlotte firsthand to provide their followers with an inclusive tourism story. It also provided CRVA with an opportunity to engage BIPOC business owners and industry leaders to ensure that attendees had an authentic experience.
With a rich mix of cultural experiences and historic places, Charlotte is enticing for Black visitors, and the CRVA ensures that Black-owned businesses benefit from tourism’s economic boom.
“Our approach is long-term, and the proof is the partnerships. We’ve collaborated with visionaries like Greg and Subrina Collier at BayHaven Restaurant Group, popup dinner series Serving the Culture, Black Travel Summit, the Durag Fest, Harvey B. Gantt Center, Charlotte NC Tours and so many more,” Harvin said.
“These aren’t just names on a list — they’re the entrepreneurs and storytellers shaping what it feels like to visit Charlotte. When travelers experience our food, our tours, our festivals, our art, and our shopping, they experience Black Charlotte” said Harvin.
Laura White, CRVA Chief Brand & Strategy Officer agreed. “I’m really proud of brand activations and content partners that have grown tremendously year over year,” she said.
CRVA’s commitment to Black travelers has not gone unnoticed. The team’s commitment has been recognized with industry honors, such as being named a finalist for the Skift IDEA Awards’ “Changemaker” award.
“We are powered by a very diverse team – passionate about the work that we do and about Charlotte period!” said Harvin. “We want Black travelers to know that Charlotte isn’t just a place to pass through; it’s a destination that sees you, celebrates you and invests in making your experience feel like it’s personal.” P
Charlotte NC Tours owner Dianna Ward gives a guest a Segway tour of Charlotte.
Photo courtesy of DME Imagery
CRVA Tourism Brand Manager Chacara Harvin
Photo courtesy of Rick Southers
Charlotte Shines as CRVA Hosts Historic NAACP National Convention
By John Burton Jr.
Uptown Charlotte pulsed with rare energy this summer. Streets filled with delegates in bold-colored suits, local vendors set up bustling pop-up shops, and the sound of gospel music and jazz riffs spilling from “The Hub,” the heart of the NAACP National Convention.
For one week in July 2025, Charlotte wasn’t just hosting a gathering — it was the gathering. The city became the epicenter of history, culture and civil rights dialogue, thanks to the careful planning
and vision of the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority (CRVA).
The NAACP National Convention, one of the country’s most influential gatherings, could have landed in any American city. Instead, it returned to Charlotte for the first time since 1996. Securing the convention was no small feat.
“Charlotte’s story has been shaped by people who paved the way for progress, and that spirit still defines our city today,” said Beth Butler, CRVA Director of
Left to right: Christa George, Amanda Carpenter, Beth Butler, Corine Mack, Mayor Vi Lyles, City of Charlotte Chief of Staff Kay Cunningham, Evonne Tisdale and James Mitchell, at-large member of the Charlotte City Council.
Photo courtesy of Charlotte Regional Visitors Association
Members of the CRVA NAACP planning team (left to right): Mike Butts, Beth Butler, Amanda Carpenter, Vicki Steiner, Rubye Wallace and Christa George.
Photo courtesy of Charlotte Regional Visitors Association
Destination Services. “Hosting the NAACP National Convention again was truly an honor. It gave us the chance to showcase our city and be part of a gathering with such history and meaning — a responsibility we didn’t take lightly.”
For Christa George, CRVA National Sales Manager-Religious & Multicultural, the pitch went beyond logistics. “From the beginning, we knew Charlotte could offer both convenience and a memorable experience,” George said. “Our location made travel easy for members, and our vibrant neighborhoods created a seamless package. Beyond that, the city’s restaurants, cultural attractions and walkable layout allowed the convention to spill beyond meeting rooms and into the heart of Charlotte itself.”
Competition for the NAACP convention was fierce. Yet Charlotte brought something unique to the table: unity.
“What set us apart was the way Charlotte rallied together,” Butler explained. “Our mayor, city officials, business leaders and hospitality partners were all behind the effort. Visitors weren’t just attending an event here; they were experiencing Charlotte at its very best.”
George agreed, adding that Charlotte’s proven record with large, diverse gatherings helped seal the deal. “The city itself has grown tremendously since the last time NAACP was here. We were able to show them a destination that not only had the infrastructure they needed but also a proven record of welcoming groups of all sizes with care and attention.”
If the Convention Center served as the official stage, The Hub was its beating heart. A vibrant gathering place open to delegates and the general public, it buzzed daily with
panel discussions, cultural showcases, and local pop-up shops.
“One of my favorite parts was watching The Hub take shape,” Butler said. “Seeing small local businesses set up and connect with attendees-and with each other-was really special. It felt like the city itself was woven into the fabric of the convention.”
From locally roasted coffee to handstitched African garments, The Hub represented Charlotte’s diversity. It became a place where national leaders brushed shoulders with local entrepreneurs, creating a rare sense of community.
The magnitude of the convention required partnerships across all levels. The mayor’s office, Mecklenburg County leaders, the corporate community and the Charlotte branch of the NAACP, led by Rev. Corine Mack-all played pivotal roles through a BlueRibbon Committee.
“We’re fortunate in Charlotte to have strong relationships with our city and county leaders,” said Butler. “Their collaboration helped us create a truly welcoming atmosphere for thousands of visitors. When the right people come together with a shared purpose, it elevates the entire experience. That’s exactly what happened here.”
One of the most powerful themes of the 2025 convention was bridging divides, and nowhere was this more evident than in youth programming.
“What set us apart was the way Charlotte rallied together. Our mayor, city officials, business leaders and hospitality partners were all behind the effort. Visitors weren’t just attending an event here; they were experiencing Charlotte at its very best.”
—Beth Butler
“For me, it was the youth programming,” Butler shared. “More than 200 students took part in a Community Service Day where they built 25 Little Free Libraries for schools and neighborhoods across Charlotte. It was about more than building libraries. It was also about building connections across generations and showing these students how powerful it feels to give back.”
The sight of teenagers hammering nails and painting bright blue library boxes, while elders looked on proudly, captured the convention’s spirit: honoring the past, empowering the present and planting seeds for the future.
Even with high-profile guests from civil rights leaders to entertainers, George found herself most inspired by the way local voices were uplifted. “It was meaningful to see Charlotte’s own leaders, advocates, and entertainers showcased on such a big stage. It reminded me that our community has incredible talent and stories to share right alongside national leaders.”
For Butler, the memory she’ll carry forward isn’t a keynote speech but a moment at the Market at 7th Street. “One of those Little Free Libraries we built was placed there. Seeing families using it reminded me that the convention’s impact will last long after the lights dim.”
The convention’s economic boost was clear — hotels were full, restaurants bustled, and small businesses flourished — but its deeper legacy is reputation.
“Hosting the NAACP Convention was an incredible opportunity,” said George. “Events like this aren’t just about filling hotel rooms. They create jobs, boost small businesses, and leave a lasting impact. NAACP was intentional about connecting with the community while they were here, from supporting local businesses in The Hub to opening experiences to the public. That kind of engagement showed Charlotte at its best.”
As the last delegates departed and Uptown’s streets grew quieter, one thing was clear: Charlotte had not just hosted the NAACP National Convention — it had risen to the occasion, leaving an indelible mark on all who attended. P
North Carolina Congresswoman Alma Adams was one of the speakers at the NAACP Convention held in Charlotte in July 2025.
Photo courtesy of NXxx
President and CEO of the NAACP, Derrick Johnson, spoke at the NAACP Convention in July.
Photo courtesy of NAACP
In the Place to Be Charlotte newcomers give their impressions of the Queen City
By Derik Hicks
Charlotte’s appeal is undeniable — its booming job market, thriving Black entrepreneurial scene, growing cultural footprint and moderate cost of living (compared to several major metro areas in the country) have made it a steady magnet for newcomers since the early 2000s.
According to the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance, 157 people move to the Charlotte area every day. Charlotte’s current population is approximately 943,000 with a total of 1.2 million people living in the larger Mecklenburg County area.
We checked in with a few new Charlotteans to find out what brought them here, what they think of their new home, and what kind of life they dream of enjoying in Charlotte.
manager in change management and human resources and lives with her son in North Charlotte.
What brought you here? We have family in this area and have visited over the past years. After several years of island living, covid and my son preparing to enter high school, the timing seemed right to make a change.
Joshua Scott, who is from Atlanta, moved to Charlotte three years ago to serve as a pastor at a local church. He lives in Highland Creek with his wife Lauren and their two dogs.
What were your first impressions of Charlotte? I was struck by the numerous well-established neighborhoods, the diversity visible throughout the city, and the abundance of great places to eat.
What do you like most about Charlotte? Charlotte feels like a hub for growth. It’s full of opportunities for entrepreneurs launching new ventures while also supporting strong, established traditions.
What don’t you like about living here? I miss my relatives, friends, and network back in Atlanta.
What do you do for fun in Charlotte? Date nights with my wife, exploring different restaurants, attending Panthers games—especially when they play the Cowboys—and learning more about the city’s history.
Have you found it easy to connect with people here? Somewhat. I’ve connected with people through church and the gym, but I’m still looking forward to building more relationships and being exposed to new perspectives.
Have you discovered any favorite cultural spots? What do you like about them? Not yet, though I’m eager to visit the Mint Museum soon and start exploring Charlotte’s cultural scene.
As a Black person, have you felt represented or supported here? Yes, in many ways. Still, there’s always more work to be done.
What are your hopes for your life in Charlotte? I hope to lead a healthy, vibrant church, connect with people who are passionate about cultivating change, and one day look back and say moving to Charlotte was one of the best decisions I ever made.
Zenzi Hodge, who moved to Charlotte in August 2021 from Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, is a widow and currently single. She works as a program
What were your first impressions of Charlotte? It has big city metropolitan access with a very hospitable networks that allowed a variety of opportunities for us to thrive. Having lived in both Atlanta and Denver, I liked the thriving black community and access to sporting teams, theater, and social life.
What do you like most about Charlotte? I like how quickly it was able to feel like home. Within a short time, I was able to go from event to event and see a familiar face, other than the family I already had here. That was when I knew I liked it here.
What don’t you like about living here? There’s a lot more developed (dining, shopping, etc.) on the south side of Charlotte and that requires a bit of driving to do that. When we first moved, I wasn’t excited about that. However, that forced me to get to know the places around me and that became an adventure and welcomed experience.
What do you do for fun in Charlotte? I really enjoy the theater. Being able to access Broadway in Charlotte is the BEST.
Have you found it easy to connect with people here? I was intentional about how we would engage and interact in our new city. I’m a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated and immediately joined the alumnae chapter upon arrival. I’m also and an alumna of Florida A&M
University and joined the Charlotte Rattlers as well. This allowed me to find my “tribe.”
Have you discovered any favorite cultural spots? What do you like about them? I like the Gantt Museum. Its culture and history and continue to be an epicenter even as skyscrapers grow up around it.
As a Black person, have you felt represented or supported here? I feel represented but there is always the need for more.
What are your hopes for your life in Charlotte? I hope to continue to immerse myself into my life here in Charlotte, not only making it my home but being recognizable as a resource in the Charlotte community, be it at work, in my organizations, or with others in my network.
Terrence J. Wade, who moved to Charlotte about 1 1/2 years ago from Houston, is a single accountant and lives in Uptown Charlotte.
What brought you to here? Charlotte has been a city I’ve always wanted to relocate to when looking at colleges and city relocations. A career move gave me the opportunity to make the move to Charlotte.
What were your first impressions of Charlotte? My first impression of Charlotte was slow pace. Relocating from Houston, the city didn’t offer many options for entertainment and nightlife.
What do you like most about Charlotte? The people. Since moving here, I’m able to network and create new connections with individuals that’s willing to open their doors and allow me to create a space of comfort to explore new ideas and opportunities.
What don’t you like about living here? Without a doubt the traffic. That’s a lot for me to say coming from a big city like Houston.
What do you do for fun in Charlotte? I enjoy trying new restaurants, bars and exploring the uptown nightlife since I live a few blocks away.
Have you found it easy to connect with people here? Absolutely! Charlotte has some very open and friendly people. I guess it’s a southern thing.
Have you discovered any favorite cultural spots? What do you like about them? I haven’t discovered any cultural spots but with the connections I have and currently establishing, I’m sure that will change very soon.
Do you feel well-adjusted to the area, or are you still finding your way? A mixture of both. I am getting adjusted to the city and its surrounding areas, but I have some ways to go. Just when I think I’ve graduated to mastering the geographics of the city, I’m proven wrong when I turn off the navigation in my car.
As a Black person, have you felt represented or supported here? 100%. Even with the diversity of the city, I still feel the presence of the black community. It’s represented around the city.
What are your hopes for your life in Charlotte? I took a huge leap of faith relocating here and it has turned out to be very rewarding, mentally and financially … In the short time I’ve been here, Charlotte hasn’t disappointed me — not one bit.
Nicole Y. Bertrand Nixon was born in Houston, Texas and raised in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. She moved to Charlotte in April with her husband James Nixon and works in the hospitality space. They live in the Northlake area and plan to move to Huntersville when their new house is completed.
What brought you here? My husband accepted a position last year where we could have stayed in Dallas; however, we were looking to get back to the East Coast. What neighborhood do you live in? Building a home in Huntersville, temporary housing behind Northlake Mall (too new to know what you call this “neighborhood”), but I chose this area to have close access to the new home site and access to all highways (485/77/85) for quick acclimation.
What were your first impressions of Charlotte? Big, small town. It reminds me of Philadelphia’s “little sibling,” metropolitan, but not intimidating.
What do you like most about Charlotte? Everyone that I have encountered is genuinely kind, the assimilation process has been wonderful. What don’t you like about living here? It’s disheartening to see people discouraging potential transplants from relocating here. I see too many “we’re full” comments across social media platforms. The abundance of homelessness and/ or lack of resources. Please fix the DMV process. Of all my DMV experiences (in other states), this is by far the least efficient and most expensive process. What do you do for fun in Charlotte? Discovering local Black history, restaurants and culture
Have you found it easy to connect with people here? Very easy, but in fairness, I have crossed paths with more transplants than native Charlotteans so I guess we are all yearning to establish community.
Have you discovered any favorite cultural spots? Thus far, I’ve enjoyed the Gantt Museum, Blumenthal Theatre and Carolina Theatre. I’ve enjoyed learning about each venue’s rich and local history and look forward to attending future events!
As a Black person, have you felt represented or supported here? Definitely represented. Growing up in the Virgin Islands gave me the opportunity to see and know “us” at every station in life … Representation is everything, to know that anything’s possible. Charlotte is reminiscent of such time for me … Throughout my adventures, it’s been refreshing not to always be the “only” everywhere I go.
What are your hopes for your life in Charlotte? To establish solid roots, build a well-rounded community and give back however possible. P
It’s easy to talk about making a difference, but meaningful change requires getting involved and doing the work. That’s why we’re proud to partner with individuals, organizations and communities that are creating a brighter future for us all.
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Preserving History and Building Hope
Charlotte’s shotgun homes reimagined as affordable housing
By Brenda Porter-Rockwell
After years of determined planning and collaboration,
Charlotte’s West Side has welcomed a powerful symbol of preservation and progress: two historic “shotgun homes,” relocated and repurposed as affordable housing.
More than a housing solution, the project — spearheaded by a coalition of community partners including the West Side Community Land Trust (West Side CLT), Lakeview Neighborhood Alliance, the Harvey B. Gantt Center for AfricanAmerican Arts + Culture and the City of Charlotte showcased the benefits of community-led development and the value
of protecting affordability in neighborhoods rich with history and resilience.
It’s a community thing — preserving homes
In 2023, the Gantt Center, the most recent owners of the shotgun homes, reached out to West Side CLT with a simple request: Help save the houses
and preserve a bit of history before the homes were demolished to make way for a new affordable housing development.
“We were creative and thoughtful about how we would use the shotgun homes. Over time, it just kind of morphed into an idea where we would use them as tiny house [accessory dwelling units (ADUs)],” said Charis Blackmon, Executive Director of the non-profit West Side CLT.
ADUs are small, self-contained living spaces on the same property as a primary residence.
From the first conversation with the Gantt Center, West Side CLT only had about one year to identify an appropriate site and move two historic houses. Blackmon said the search for a neighborhood included keeping West Side CLT’s mission and values at the forefront.
“We’re founded by neighbors. Everything that we develop, everything we do, is at the request of neighbors,” said Blackmon, who added that multiagency collaboration required West Side CLT to work within guidelines from local government entities like the CharlotteMecklenburg Historic Landmarks Commission.
“We had to make sure that not only were we being responsive to community needs, but that we were also honoring the history of the homes and not renovating them too extensively,” said Blackmon.
Finally, a piece of land in the Lakeview neighborhood came into focus. Lakeview became the prime location after West Side CLT researched other avenues to repurpose the houses
Blackmon said she began to wonder: “What if we pilot the accessory dwelling units on this site by moving the shotgun homes here and keeping them as tiny units?”
West Side CLT eventually entered a partnership with Lakeview Neighborhood Alliance (LNA) after learning LNA was already envisioning a community ADU model to boost affordable housing.
History gets a new address
The houses, built in the1890s, were originally located on West Bland Street in an area called Blandville. One house was occupied by Lula McCullough and the other by her son, James. Considered
Photos
Below: This is how the houses looked until 2020-2021 under ownership by the Gantt Center.
Right: This is how the shotgun homes look today on Norwood Drive in Charlotte.
LNA’s Director, Jamaal Kinard echoed the sentiment.
“I think value alignment is key. We have to be very intentional and very strategic in how you go about doing things. I think that [shotgun houses project] helped us launch and show our proof of concept,” said Kinard. Since the historic houses were relocated to Lakeview, Kinard and one of his neighbors have each added an ADU to their property.
“Now we have these four proofs of concepts, and an example of how we can be intentional about affordable housing,” Kinard said.
The story of “Lula” and “James”
affordable rental units at the time, the houses were the last remaining shotgun homes in the neighborhood.
In 1986, the houses were moved from West Bland Street to the corner of East Seventh and North Alexander Streets where they were renovated and used by Charlotte’s Afro-American Culture Center, and later the Gantt Center to educate visitors about the city’s rich Black history. In 2020, West Side CLT acquired both houses and relocated them to their current site on Norwood Drive as affordable housing in a rapidly gentrifying area of Charlotte.
Charlotte is in desperate need of affordable housing. According to the United Way of Greater Charlotte, only 8% of the city’s rental housing stock is considered affordable.
Charlotte is in desperate need of affordable housing. According to the United Way of Greater Charlotte, only 8% of the City’s rental housing stock is considered affordable. Contributing
factors include redevelopment, high property values, increased construction and renovation costs, and businesses purchasing available stock.
Blackmon said the project is a key example of aligning partners and the community alongside groups like LNA and historical preservation in service of creating affordable housing.
“One of our core values with the land trust is recognizing neighbors as the experts of their community. So, I think one of the important components of preserving these shotgun homes and bringing them to Lakeview was to demonstrate what’s possible in this community with neighbors versus external sources coming in and trying to solve problems,” Blackmon said.
Today the historic homes are affectionally named “Lula” and “James.” The renovation process was meticulous, ensuring historical accuracy while incorporating a modern aesthetic. For example, the homes incorporate a partial pier and beam foundation around the front, a building style reminiscent of the original construction. Then foundation then transitions into a modern wall as you move to the rear of the home.
“If you look closely at our houses … we can still mark exa ctly where those original piers were to honor the original history and esthetic of the house,” said Blackmon, adding that history doesn’t have to be excluded to drive more affordable housing. P
Above: Each shotgun house on Norwood Drive sits behind a larger, primary dwelling, but has its own entry and exit driveway.
Right: What the shotgun houses look like inside now.
Jamaal Kinard
Craig Little Builds Community by Serving Veterans
By Angel M. Brown
When Craig Little talks about service, it’s never just about himself. The Charlotte resident and 12-year Marine Corps veteran has built a life dedicated to mentoring, advocating and preserving history. From reactivating the Charlotte chapter of the Montford Point Marine Association in 2019, to securing lifechanging benefits for fellow veterans as an Accredited Claims Agent, Little’s journey is rooted in impact. His work recently earned him recognition as one of Charlotte’s Great 28 — a distinction he calls humbling.
“I don’t chase cameras,” he said. “I just want the work to speak. If someone sees what I’m doing and it inspires them to help too, that’s the reward.”
Little credits his time in the Marine Corps with shaping the communicator and leader he is today. Mentoring young Marines on their first deployments taught him patience, empathy and the importance of reading the room — skills he still uses daily as an audit supervisor.
At home, his shared military background with his wife, Pia, also a Marine veteran, has been a source of strength. “Sometimes you just need quiet,” Little said. “She gets that. She knows when I head to the gym or just sit with a book, I’m okay.”
That same sense of structure guides his parenting. His children and their friends remember him as “no-nonsense” — firm but fair. “I believed in values, responsibility, and independence,” he said. “That’s what the Marine Corps instilled in me, and it carries through.”
Montford Point Marines
While many know the Tuskegee Airmen or Buffalo Soldiers, fewer know the story of the Montford Point Marines — the first Black Marines who trained at a segregated camp in North Carolina from 1942 to 1949. They endured substandard conditions, built their own barracks, and wore hand-me-down uniforms, yet still passed the Corps’ toughest training.
Marine Corp veteran Craig Little
Street renaming of Montford Point Street with Craig Little (left), Lieutenant General Walter Gaskins and President of the National Montford Point Marine Association, Dr. James Averhart
“The Marine Corps was the last branch to end segregation,” Little said. “Montford Pointers proved they could endure it all and still excel. They were the best of the best.”
Charlotte’s ties run deep. Howard P. Perry, the first Montford Point recruit, was from Charlotte, and Lt. Frederick C. Branch, the first Black officer in the Marine Corps, studied at Johnson C. Smith University. Little helped ensure those legacies were remembered — most visibly through the renaming of Phifer Avenue to Montford Point Street in 2021. He is now advocating for a Frederick C. Branch Road on JCSU’s campus.
“History shouldn’t be hidden,” he said. “It should be embraced — not just as Black history, but as American history.”
Little credits his time in the Marine Corps with shaping the communicator and leader he is today. Mentoring young Marines on their first deployments taught him patience, empathy and the importance of reading the room — skills he still uses daily as an audit supervisor.
Reactivating a chapter
When Little took on the presidency of Charlotte’s Montford Point Marine Association in 2019, he said he quickly set the chapter in motion. His proudest achievements include the
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Craig Little at his oldest daughter’s wedding
street renaming, a Toys for Tots partnership and securing direct accreditation from the Department of Veterans Affairs, allowing the group to file disability claims for veterans across all branches.
“We refuse to be put in a bubble,” he says. “In the Corps, everyone’s green — light green, dark green — but still green.”
This year, Little stepped down as local president after being elected to national leadership. In his place, Carolyn Hayes, an Army veteran, became the first female president of Chapter 40 — a milestone he proudly supported.
One of the chapter’s most impactful initiatives is its Scholarship Gala, which awards $2,500 scholarships to students their first year, and no less than $1,000 for each subsequent year until graduation.
“We’ve had incredible students — 4.1 GPAs, ROTC leaders, young women and men of all backgrounds,” said Little. “It’s about supporting veterans’ families, no matter who they are.”
This year, Little stepped down as local president after being elected to national leadership.
Advocacy and legacy
As an Accredited Claims Agent, Little has helped countless veterans secure benefits, sometimes full disability ratings, by combing through records for overlooked injuries. He compares the VA process to dealing with insurance companies: “Their job is to pay as little as possible. My job is to make sure veterans get everything they’ve earned.”
He refuses to charge for his work, asking only that veterans join the association or support its events. “Helping is contagious,” he said. “When people see it works, they want to pay it forward.”
Being named one of Charlotte’s Great 28 left Little nearly speechless. “I don’t belong to every circle or clique,” Little added. “So to be recognized just for serving — that means a lot.”
Looking ahead, he envisions growth under new leadership and more women veterans stepping into visible roles. His own legacy, he hopes, is simple — that he preserved history, served those who served, and built bridges across communities.
“You may not always see us coming, but you’ll know we’re there.” P
Craig Little (center), Montford Point Marine Association members and Marine Reserves at a Toys for Tots event in Charlotte
Exploring Modern College Majors in the 21st Century
New programs of study at many universities are being created to reflect the rapidly changing needs of modern society as we sit in the early days of the 21st century. While majors like AI prepare students for the new technological age, a host of unconventional academic programs are also redefining what it means to pursue higher learning.
N.C. A&T University’s Undergraduate Degree in Artificial Intelligence
By Charles K. Harris
Even digital neophytes have been unable to escape one of the biggest buzz words of recent years, artificial intelligence, commonly known simply as AI.
For some, AI conjures frightening images from bad sci-fi movies and comic books. Others imagine a future world run with impeccable efficiency by robots. A university engineering professor and dean gives a more simple definition.
“Artificial intelligence is the ability to train computer systems to perform tasks and make decisions similar to how humans would,” said Stephanie LusterTeasley Pass, PhD, who is Dean of the College of Engineering at North Carolina A&T State University. “Basically, the computer or the machine is able to learn and make
decisions without a human interacting with the system.”
Through engineering, machines can be given cognitive abilities relegated only to humans in the past. Reasoning ability, language comprehension and problem solving are some of these skills which can be built into software.
AI is all around us. Some examples include apps that use algorithms to offer users personalized content suggestions or the rising trend in chatbot customer service models. Luster-Teasley Pass explained that part of AI’s growth is the ability for AI services to be used in virtually all industries.
“(AI) helps navigate everything from home and work devices,” she highlights, adding that AI can continue to improve “transportation, manufacturing, finance, healthcare and other areas,” she said.
Projections show that the computer science and engineering fields will continue to expand at a rapid pace in the next decade. To keep up, many colleges and universities have incorporated AI courses into existing degree programs and fields of study. N.C. A&T is one of them — the inaugural undergraduate class of started this fall semester. Currently, N.C. A&T is the only HBCU that offers such a degree.
“AI is being incorporated into many technologies that we use every day,” said Luster-Teasley Pass. “A&T felt it was important to be at the forefront of the next wave of innovators in tech and education.” According to the HBCU online database, The Hundred-Seven, N.C. A&T produces more of the nation’s Black engineers than any other HBCU.
The university has also reported the highest enrollment figures annually amongst HBCU for over 10 consecutive years, according to OnlineU. Speaking of future graduates of the AI program, Luster-Teasley Pass said, “They will be the innovators.” She added that these students will leave A&T with the skills needed “to develop codes, platforms, [as well as] enhance current AI programming and applications.”
N.C. A&T’s novel AI bachelor’s degree program is divided into two areas of concentration: AI Engineering and Computing Systems at the school’s College of Engineering (COE) and Applied AI through the N.C. A&T’s College of Science and Technology (CoST).
Since the school’s classes first began in 1893, N.C. A&T has been devoted to providing an “Ivy League” quality education to African American students who all too often lack the benefit of accessibility and resources their white counterparts may have. Holding fast to that vision, N.C. A&T continues to offer competitive tuition costs, remaining one of the most affordable universities in the state.
The AI program via the College of Engineering will focus on the programming and coding necessary to improve and
Stephanie LusterTeasley Pass, PhD
enhance AI tools. Meanwhile, the A&T CoST curriculum concentrates on creating specific applications for use in AI. Classes are available on campus and online.
“The curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary learning,” Luster-Teasley Pass said. “Combining technical rigor with real-world applications, informed by the latest developments in AI science, ethics, and policy.”
The N.C. A&T office of University Relations also recently confirmed that discussions about an AI graduate program are already underway.
More Unique College Majors for a New Age
By Alicia Michele Benjamin
Although there’s a high demand for students who major in high technology and science-based fields such as cybersecurity, data science, sustainable energy, and healthcare and biology when they graduate, some students will want to go down less traditional paths of academic study.
Here are a few of the more modern nontraditional paths of study some of the 21.8 million higher education students in the U.S. can choose from.
EcoGastronomy
EcoGastronomy is the study of how food gets from farms to people’s plates, and
the University of New Hampshire offers a degree in it, which is actually a dual major in business and economics, and life sciences and agriculture. The program links the study of the fields of sustainable agriculture, regional cuisine, hospitality management and nutrition.
Potential fields the students can pursue include chef, dietary technician, farm manager, nutritionist, public policy analyst, sommelier, teacher and more.
Foresight
The University of Houston offers a Master of Science degree or graduate certificate in Foresight — the study of change to help us head toward the “futures we want and avoid those we don’t,”
according to the university. Students study systematic methodology to help us make better decisions today. Graduates learn to forecast the future to know what will happen and to be ready for whatever that is.
Some of the courses students in this program study are advanced strategies for futures planning, introduction to foresight and futures research. Examples of places where graduates may work after graduating from this innovative program include commercial firms, government agencies, nonprofit organizations and futures-related research firms.
Cannabis Biology and Chemistry
Colorado State University offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Cannabis Biology and Chemistry that prepares students for graduate study in biology or chemistry and for jobs in the emerging field of cannabis science.
Students in Colorado State’s bachelor’s degree program can choose one of two emphasis areas: analytical or natural product. The analytical track focuses on chemistry and prepares students to work as biological technicians, biochemists and biophysicists. The natural product path includes the study of biology and advanced coursework in genetics, neurobiology and natural products.
All areas of concentration prepare students to work in biology, chemistry or cannabis labs, to pursue graduate degrees in biology or chemistry, and explore professional opportunities in natural products, plant chemistry and cannabis research. P
These indoor cannabis plants were trained to grow flat in order to take better advantage of the grow lights and increase yields.
Organic vegetables are used in EcoGastronomy because their production method aims to minimize environmental harm and is part of a more conscious, sustainable food system.
Photo courtesy of Missvain
Photo courtesy of Plantlady223
Space to Be Creative Tommy Nichols creates a hub for Charlotte creatives, learners and leaders
By Angela Lindsay
Across from Harding University High School on Alleghany Street sits a building that members of the community will find is so much more than just a workspace. It’s an inspired vision stemming from a deep desire to create a space where creativity, technology and community intersect — especially for underserved communities that often lack access to these kinds of resources, according to its founder Tommy Nichols.
CLT Creative Workspace, which opened in 2024, is a 5,200-square-foot hub offering co-working desks, training rooms, a podcast and video production studio with four microphones, an artificial intelligence and cybersecurity lab, a recording studio, a meeting/event space and access to technical equipment. It also provides video production, live streaming and digital media workshops.
However, the most important thing visitors to this unique workspace will find is opportunity.
“The purpose is simple: to provide an affordable, collaborative space where nonprofits, entrepreneurs, artists and filmmakers can create, connect and grow. “We offer flexible office space, studios, meeting rooms and event areas, alongside technology resources and training opportunities,” said Nichols, executive director of PowerUP USA and founder of CLT Creative Workspace. “Our mission is to
instance, motivated by his service in the U.S. Air Force and his vision for equity, Nichols launched PowerUP USA in the early 2000s as a 501(c)(3) organization ensuring underserved youth, adults and seniors could access the tools and training needed to thrive in a digital world.
Today, his new effort, CLT Creative Workspace houses organizations that include the Charlotte Black Film Festival, the Queen City Arts Fest, and the Center for Digital Churches — each advancing community impact through technology, arts and faith-based innovation.
His latest venture, CLT Creative Workspace, was a challenging but rewarding process, Nichols said — one that both helps fill a void and clear assumptions about certain communities.
“West Charlotte has a rich cultural history but also faces challenges in access to resources and investment. I wanted to bring this concept here to bridge that gap and honor the community’s legacy by creating a place where innovation and creativity thrive right in the neighborhood,” he said.
Support for the project was “pieced together,” he said, with community partnerships, program support through PowerUP USA and personal investment. While there were no large investors, Nichols said his team relied on strategic collaborations and sheer determination. Fees to use the space are structured to remain affordable, with membership and hourly options to fit different needs.
serve small businesses, nonprofits, creatives, and the youth of Charlotte who need access to tools and mentorship.”
The Dayton, Ohio, native has called Charlotte home for the past 16 years. In that time, he has built several creative and community-based ventures here. For
Above: Production Assistant Bootcamp session with Los Angeles-based filmmakers held at CLT Creative Workspace in May 2025.
Left: The mayoral candidate forum, held at CLT Creative Workspace in July 2025, featured candidates from the Charlotte mayoral and City Council primary races.
Photos courtesy
oTommy Nichols
complete or promote their projects,” he said. “By supporting them, we’re nurturing diverse voices in film and giving young filmmakers the confidence to tell their stories authentically.”
CLT Creative Workspace is dedicated to expanding its community reach on many levels. They have already hosted Mayor Vi Lyles and a district representative candidates’ forum, an educators’ retreat, nonprofit trainings, business workshops, youth coding and media sessions, and various community forums. They have also provided space for local organizations to host town halls, screenings and networking events.
“Charlotte is one of the fastestgrowing cities in the country, but many creative voices and small organizations don’t have access to spaces that foster innovation, particularly on the West Side,” Nichols said. “CLT Creative Workspace provides equity in opportunity — helping ensure that growth includes everyone.”
Response to the workspace has been overwhelmingly positive. One story that stands out is when a nonprofit organization that serves youth used the space to host a digital filmmaking workshop. The young participants produced short films and saw themselves as storytellers for the first time.
“That moment captured exactly why we created this space—to inspire and empower,” said Nichols.
Another way CLT Creative Workspace inspires and empowers is through its awarding of $70,000 in microgrants to emerging filmmakers and $5,000 to Harding University High School in partnership with the Charlotte Black Film Festival and PowerUP USA.
“Many of these artists would not otherwise have the financial means to
Nichols said he hopes CLT Creative Workspace becomes a model for community-driven creative hubs across Charlotte and beyond. He also said he’d love to replicate the concept in other neighborhoods. Success for him, he added, looks like individuals and organizations walking through the doors, finding the tools and support they need and leaving empowered to make a difference.
“I want readers to know that creativity is for everyone. Spaces like CLT Creative Workspace are about breaking down barriers and creating pathways where dreams can become reality,” Nichols said. “Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, nonprofit leader or student, this is your space to grow and shine.” P
Above: Tommy Nichols, founder of the Charlotte Black Film Festival, gives grants totaling $70,000 to emerging filmmakers at CLT Creative Workspace in March 2025.
Right: Singer Anthony Hamilton during a podcast interview at CLT Creative Workspace.
Below: Students learning tech skills in a class held at the workspace in West Charlotte.
Inside the HomeSick Program Repairing homes and improving health outcomes
By Rosanny Crumpton
For many Charlotte area families, the greatest health risk begins at home. A loose floorboard, a missing handrail or a broken step may seem insignificant, but for older adults living on fixed incomes, these hazards can mean the difference between remaining independent and being forced into a care facility after a preventable injury.
Rebuilding Together of Greater Charlotte (RTGC), a local non-profit that serves five surrounding counties, has seen it firsthand. Their new initiative, HomeSick, shines a light on a quiet truth: housing isn’t just about shelter — it’s about health.
Unsafe housing fuels preventable health crises, explains Shereese Floyd, Director of Development and Communications at
Rebuilding Together. She explained that in Charlotte, one of the most urgent health risks tied to unsafe housing is a fall in the home, something many of us don’t think about until it happens.
According to the North Carolina Department of Human Services, falls are the
leading cause of non-fatal, injury-related ER visits. In Mecklenburg County, older adults are admitted at rates above the national average, and women are hospitalized more often than men.
Another serious concern is lead exposure. Even ingesting a small amount
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can cause lasting cognitive and behavioral challenges in a child’s development. When a home has leaks, pests or poor ventilation, it can trigger asthma and other respiratory issues. Outdated wiring and aging heating systems can expose residents to toxic materials and other safety hazards.
Even when no injury occurs, the toll is heavy. Living in unsafe conditions can create chronic stress, disrupt sleep and even worsen existing medical conditions. In some of the worst cases, families are pushed out of their homes altogether, leaving them to face the possibility of homelessness and a dangerous cycle of instability.
RTGC takes a holistic approach to health and housing. They follow a 25-point health and safety standards guide. Their three cornerstone programs — Safe at Home, Critical Repairs, and Building a Healthy Neighborhood—address urgent needs that range from major issues like broken HVAC systems to simpler but equally critical fixes such as installing missing grab bars.
The average critical repair costs $25,000, nearly equal to many of their clients’ annual income; yet those dollars stretch far. Floyd shared that in North Carolina, each $1 invested in
essential repairs for seniors or people with disabilities saves up to $19 in Medicaid spending.
“These aren’t just construction costs,” Floyd said. “They’re healthcare costs avoided.” RTGC has always repaired homes, but HomeSick takes the work further, redefining housing as healthcare.
These conditions are not equally distributed. Marginalized neighborhoods bear a heavier share of these risks, which further deepens health disparities in the region. “Your genetic code may predict disease, but your Zip code predicts your chances of surviving it,” said Floyd, citing a CDC finding.
The campaign also includes preventive education through [Re]build & [Re]claim Workshops — “a little R&R for the home.” Just like an annual check-up, these workshops give homeowners tools to spot small problems before they become major hazards.
Floyd stresses that everyone has a role to play:
• Volunteer: Whether skilled or not, join a repair day to paint or build a ramp.
• Give: Financial contributions directly prevent medical emergencies.
• Advocate and share: Invite RTGC to share their message in workplaces, faith communities, and civic groups.
• Partner: Corporate sponsors and community groups can multiply impact through service and investment.
Most importantly, Floyd urges our community to listen to homeowners. She explains that amplifying stories supports our neighbors and shifts the conversation to support the idea that safe housing is a healthcare matter.
Simply put, unsafe housing is a public health crisis. “We believe everyone deserves a safe and healthy home. By focusing on these urgent needs, we’re not just repairing homes, we’re preventing medical emergencies and proving that housing is healthcare,” Floyd added. “Our work sits at the center of healthcare conversations and leads us directly back to our mission: repairing homes, revitalizing communities and rebuilding lives.”
To get involved, visit rebuildingtogetherclt.org P
Ways to Support Ada Jenkins Center
Rebuilding Together of Greater Charlotte helps fix homes for older adults
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Area President of M/I Homes Brings Affordability and Quality to Homebuilding in Charlotte
By Anders J. Hare
Alan Beulah has spent nearly three decades in homebuilding, rising through the ranks of national and regional firms across the Southeast. Now, as the new area president for M/I Homes in Charlotte, he is focused on guiding the company through a maturing housing market, one he calls “the most competitive” he has ever worked in, while maintaining affordability, quality and customer trust.
Beulah’s path to real estate was unconventional. The Maryland native, who holds both an undergraduate degree and an MBA from Frostburg State University, began his career in federal government administration in Washington, D.C. His introduction to real estate came when a new position at the General Services Administration required him to obtain a real estate license. Within 90 days of earning it, he left his government job to pursue real estate full time.
“I started selling homes part-time, and before long, I was all in,” Beulah said. “That decision changed the course of my career.”
Beulah’s journey took him through several leadership roles in operations, sales and management with builders in Virginia,
Florida and Georgia before he settled in Charlotte nearly two decades ago. He joined M/I Homes 10 years ago and has served as vice president of operations, sales and marketing, and division vice president before assuming his current post as area president.
“This milestone means a lot personally and professionally,” Beulah said. “I have a strong team here; people who care about our customers and understand the responsibility that comes with building someone’s home.”
Beulah takes the helm at a pivotal time for Charlotte’s housing market. The city, once described as a “mini-Atlanta,” has evolved into one of the fastestgrowing metros in the nation, drawing new residents from across the country. Yet that growth has brought challenges: rising prices, limited supply and a widening affordability gap.
“We’re committed to offering homes that reflect where families want to live and what they can afford,” he said. “Affordability is key. Whether it’s a $250,000 townhome or a million-dollar single-family home, it’s likely the largest investment that buyer will ever make.”
Charlotte’s housing market is undergoing a slow but steady correction after several years of record demand. According to Rocket Homes, the median home sold price in the Charlotte area reached $424,825 in May 2025, up 2.4% from a year earlier. Statewide, North Carolina’s housing supply reached 5.7 months of inventory, approaching what economists consider a balanced market.
“We look at the whole picture — location, design and long-term value,” Beulah said. “That’s how we make sure families feel confident they’ve made a good investment.”
He also intends to deepen M/I’s community involvement by supporting local infrastructure projects and working closely with municipalities to identify growth corridors. “It’s about being a responsible builder,” he said. “We want to plant a flag in Charlotte and be known not just by the number of homes we build, but by the families we touch.”
As M/I Homes approaches its 50th anniversary next year, Beulah said he feels proud to lead the company’s Charlotte operations into the next chapter. He has no plans to slow down anytime soon.
“I’m enjoying what I do,” said Beulah. “We have big goals and a great team. My focus is on helping M/I Homes remain a toptier builder — one that people are proud to say they bought from.”
Beulah believes the company’s greatest asset is its people. “What makes us different is our people,” he said. “When a family chooses us to build their home, we don’t take that selection lightly. It’s more than a transaction, it’s a trust.” P
Alan Beulah, area president if M/I Homes in Charlotte
Exterior of an M/I Homes house, Willoughby Park in Monroe, N.C.
From Charlotte to New Mexico Scouting troop’s mission teaches life lessons of resilience.
By Sasha Manley
As thunderstorms loudly rumbled, the scouts of Troop 63 climbed over 900 feet to their campsite in northern New Mexico. With the threat of lightning, survival skills kicked in, and the team got down in a lightning safety crouch position to protect themselves from being struck by Mother Nature.
Hypothermia became a concern as the rain had no plans of letting up. The Lead Ranger quickly guided the crew to change into dry gear. The evening simmered down, and the group remained safe from the elements.
It was the inaugural day for the Charlotte Scouting of America Troop 63, chartered at Friendship Missionary Baptist Mission in New Mexico. Several members recently visited for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Troop history
Formally known as Boy Scouts of America, Troop 63 is now a part of Scouting America, which prides itself on challenging the youth on their moral compass and lays the foundation of the Scout Oath and Law.
Troop 63 also takes pride in community collaborations and ministries, such as working with Friendship Community Garden, a community-focused initiative that provides healthy food options, and the DeiVision of Children and Youth.
The original Troop was founded nearly 100 years ago by Charlotte Native, Frederick Alexander, on March 31, 1993. He is known to be the First Scoutmaster of Troop 63. The group is open to males in 6th through 12th grades and meets weekly through May 2026.
Troop 63 Key Leaders are:
• Aaron Johnson, Scoutmaster of Troop 63
• Sherri Johnson, the Troop Committee Chair
Formally known as Boy Scouts of America, Troop 63 is now a part of Scouting America, which prides itself on challenging the youth on their moral compass and lays the foundation of the Scout Oath and Law.
• Tommy Lee Hayes-Brown, the Charter Organization Representative
• Carnell Hampton, Assistant Scoutmaster and Philmont Crew Advisor
The mission
Last June, a selected team (Philmont Crew) from Troop 63 (6 scouts and four
Above: Troop 63 crew members take a rest after rock climbing; Right: Just before the rain and hail arrived, the crew set up the Day 1 campsite and prepared dinner.
Above: Troop 63 participated in a trail ride guided by rangers who instructed the scouts and adults on how to take care of the horses.
Charlotte Scouting Troop 63
adults) completed the trip to Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimarron, New Mexico. According to philmontscoutranch.org, Philmont Scout Ranch is the “Scouting America’s largest National High-Adventure Base” established in 1938.
“The goal of our crew was to challenge ourselves physically and mentally by completing a 7-day, 32+ mile backpacking trip on rugged backcountry trails,” said Carnell Hampton, Assistant Scoutmaster and Philmont Crew Advisor.
Philmont Ranch quick facts
• Over 1 million scouts and explorers have visited Philmont
• Elevation ranges from 6,500 to 12,441 feet
• The terrain covers 140,177 square miles of mountains and nature
Hampton went on to provide some insight on what backpacking really meant for the scouts: “Backpackers carry everything they need for the trip with them on their backs — things like personal shelter (tent), their sleeping bag and sleeping pad, clothing, food (1.5 to 2.5 lbs. of food per person, per day of backpacking).”
Hampton added, “The youth lead the way with leadership stepping in when needed. Hampton further explained this: “creates a ‘safe place to fail’ as scouts contend with the pressure of planning, execution, team dynamics, and how to lead with influence.”
The mission was 2 years in the making. In October 2023, the Troop began their extensive readiness that involved fundraising and training. Hampton explained how they prepared mentally and physically.
“Not only did we need to be physically ready to hike 6-10 miles per day over 7 days, but we also needed to sharpen our outdoor skills. Four members of our crew attended a multi-day training in Wilderness First Aid. Our crew did several prep hikes designed to test our skills,” he said.
They also had two hiking training sessions with 30-40 pound backpacks in Tennessee on the Appalachian Trail.
Learning lessons
Besides accomplishing their daily missions. The team also walked away with growth in several ways. “We experienced the terrain, the history, and the culture of New Mexico, which was unfamiliar to any member of our crew,” Hampton said.
Acknowledging the world around them was priceless, he added. “There was natural beauty, but also an appreciation of the responsibility of maintaining the land so that others could experience unspoiled areas set aside for scouts.”
The future is now
Looking ahead, Troop 63 plans to continue their efforts to help the community. They also plan to take local backpack trips to keep their skills sharp. The other three national treks are also on the goal list for successful accomplishment. Hampton mentions
“The opportunity for black scouts, “An African-American crew is rare at Philmont. Many don’t know about the long tradition of Blacks in Scouting. It is a tradition that inspired us, even when the days on the trail were long, the packs were heavy, and we felt every mile in our aching muscles. We kept going because we couldn’t quit knowing that historically, Black scouts may not have had this opportunity.”
There are many ways to help the Troop with their efforts and success. Some key items, like gear and camp supplies, go a long way to help families.
Contact Scoutmaster Johnson or Assistant Scoutmaster Carnell Hampton at dontwasteurlife7@gmail.com for more information. P
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Vibrant Senior Living at Windsor Run
At Windsor Run®, Southeast Charlotte’s premier senior living community, experience senior living with style, ease, and independence. With everything you need just steps from your door, you’re free to live a worry-free retirement with the safety net of support of an Erickson Senior Living®-managed community.
Live Stylishly
At Windsor Run, you don’t just gain a beautiful residence. Stunning homes like The Bradford, a one bedroom, one and a half bath, and The Hawthorne, a two bedroom, two bath, are perfect for maintenance-free, stress-free senior living.
Plus, you gain freedom from the hassle and high cost of home maintenance and surprise repairs. Enjoy modern finishes and appliances as well as the option to customize your space to make your new home truly yours.
Live Comfortably
We are dedicated to you and your safety no matter your needs. You can rest easy with an onsite medical center and additional levels of care should you ever need it.
Live Social
There are plenty of opportunities to be active and social at Windsor
Run. Take a fitness class. Have dinner with a friend at a one of our many, on-campus restaurants. You could join a new club or activity. Visit the pool. With plenty to do, you have options to engage as much or as little as you want.
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Considering All Sides: Seniors and Downsizing
By Charles K. Harris
Moving is stressful for anyone. This can be especially so for seniors transitioning from their private home into a senior living community.
Senior advocate and owner/president of Care Connect Direct, Christina Drumm-Boyd, explained. “Embracing change is very difficult, and most seniors that are considering moving into an independent living environment have already had a change in health status and/ or experienced the loss of a spouse or life partner.”
Boyd, whose firm specializes in providing comprehensive planning, legal assistance and other services for senior citizens and their families nationwide, said difficulty for seniors is not strictly about adjusting to new circumstances.
“This decision marks embracing the fact that one is aging and may be in need of a more supportive environment, demonstrating a loss of control,” said Boyd.
For self-sufficient seniors, independent senior living communities provide a secure, supportive environment without sacrificing privacy and autonomy.
“Independent living is a great option for seniors who are seeking freedom
“The biggest fear some seniors have is the act of downsizing and learning to live with less. Parting with possessions can reinforce fears of losing independence.”
—Alverita Peeples
and [practical assistance],” said Alverita Peeples, Executive Director of Trevi Vibrant Senior Living in Charlotte.
Independent senior living facilities offer apartment-style units which allow for privacy while still offering easy access to practical help and socializing at one’s own pace and schedule. Common amenities include housekeeping, shopping and transportation to appointments.
Another especially valuable component of independent senior living communities is access to social opportunities.
“Many seniors find themselves isolated after the loss of a spouse [or] after experiencing health challenges,” Boyd said. “[A] senior community provides a tremendous opportunity to regain a sense of community and purpose.”
To help new residents ease into Trevi’s community, each new arrival is paired
Christina Drumm-Boyd, senior advocate and owner/president of Care Connect Direct
Despite the potential risks of misplacement, the overall effect of successful transition into independent senior living communities can provide security, contentment and engagement for residents, and guilt-free peace of mind for their loved ones.
with an “ambassador” (an experienced resident) to help minimize anxiety or isolation, Peeples said. Most independent senior facilities also offer a wealth of activities keeping residents active physically and mentally, key contributors to maintaining vitality.
“Trevi offers restaurant-style dining, outdoor courtyards and pickleball, a billiards [and] card room, wellness and social programs, chapel and library,” said Peeples.
Also, extra attention given to senior-specific safety precautions such as handicap accessibility, elevators, emergency pull cords and 24-hour concierge service, offers additional peace of mind not available in a private home.
Yet, despite the advantages, many seniors still experience great apprehension about making such a move. “Seniors often assume that all communities are ‘nursing homes’ or warehousing facilities for the aged,” Boyd said.
Another common fear is that any “quality” facilities will be prohibitively expensive.
“Many seniors assume that moving into a rental environment will be more expensive than staying in their own home,” said Boyd. “This is not always the case, as property taxes, maintenance and the costly risk of remaining in a [potentially unsafe] environment ... can be much more expensive than the combined costs associated with [independent living communities.] “
Many communities also offer transportation, allowing residents to relinquish personal vehicles, eliminating the costs of car ownership.
“The biggest fear some seniors have is the act of downsizing and learning to live with less,” said Peeples. Parting with possessions can reinforce fears of losing independence.
Other common fears include adjusting to new surroundings, moving away from friends and neighbors and a fear of boredom. Boyd recommends loved ones validate and assuage these fears when dealing with a reluctant senior, without sacrificing honesty.
“Approach the process with patience and empathy,” says Boyd, “However, always temper the options with the fact that safety and health must take precedence.”
Even when a senior is agreeable or initiating the move themselves, careful planning is critical.
First, have an “open and honest” discussion about current and future financial and healthcare needs, Boyd said. “This [allows] you to plan in advance and avoid medical, emotional and financial crises.” With a clear understanding of specific needs and a budget, a deeper search can begin.
“We invite [prospective residents] to come spend one or two nights in our guest apartment to experience life at Trevi,” Peeples said, adding that an immersive experience goes far in revealing compatibility.
Boyd encourages asking current residents, their loved ones and employees as these individuals can often be the “best source” of unfiltered feedback. Other support options include contacting state licensing agencies, local senior citizen organizations or geriatric social workers.
Although independent housing might not cost as much as some fear, the prices can still be steep for many seniors. The U.S. Census Bureau reported in 2022 that more than 17 million senior citizens (65 and older) were economically “insecure,” with income significantly below poverty level. Unsurprisingly, these rates are considerably higher among Black seniors.
Identifying additional financing sources can be critical to finding a budget-friendly community that isn’t short on quality. Because funding requirements and rules of eligibility vary greatly and often use complex medical or legal terminology, professional support can also be helpful.
Senior advisors and organizations such as Boyd’s can reduce the legwork and headache in selecting a facility that offers both quality of life and financial compatibility.
Despite the potential risks of misplacement, the overall effect of successful transition into independent senior living communities can provide security, contentment and engagement for residents, and guilt-free peace of mind for their loved ones. P
