Meharry Medical College’s School of Applied Computational Sciences has received a $1 million grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation to advance medical education and promote health equity through technology. The funding will support initiatives like augmented and virtual reality integration, community partnerships, and interdisciplinary training, strengthening the College’s mission to prepare diverse health professionals for underserved communities.
Author Archives: Press Release
Securityplus Federal Credit Union proudly supports The AFRO’s Black Business Matters EXPO
Securityplus Federal Credit Union sponsored and participated in The AFRO’s Black Business Matters EXPO to celebrate entrepreneurship, support small businesses and strengthen Baltimore’s community connections.
National HBCU Orator Competition open to current HBCU students
The HBCU Oratorical Challenge, a national competition highlighting the public-speaking talents of students attending historically Black colleges and universities, is now accepting submissions through Dec. 15, 2025. The event offers HBCU students opportunities to strengthen communication, leadership and creative expression across four categories, with national finals set for April 18–19, 2026, in Atlanta.
The Presidents’ Roundtable announces leadership transition and strategic revitalization for 2026
The Presidents’ Roundtable has appointed longtime Baltimore business leader James Makia as its new chair, succeeding Jeff Hargrave, as the organization launches a 2026 Strategic Plan focused on revitalization, innovation, and expanded impact for minority entrepreneurs.
Maryland joins national fight to protect inclusive sex education programs
Maryland joins other states in defending comprehensive, evidence-based sexual health education against federal overreach.
United Way of Central Maryland names Tykia Warden as senior vice president and chief development officer
Tykia Warden is the new senior vice president and chief development officer for United Way of Central Maryland. Warden brings more than two decades of proven leadership in fundraising, nonprofit management and community engagement to the organization’s executive team.
City Schools CEO named the superintendent-in-residence at The Broad Center at Yale School of Management
Baltimore City Schools CEO Dr. Sonja Brookins Santelises has been named superintendent-in-residence at The Broad Center at Yale School of Management, where she will mentor, teach and support education leaders nationwide while continuing to lead City Schools. Her appointment recognizes her years of leadership and commitment to transforming urban education.
First all-Black high school polo team makes competition debut
The Atlanta BEST Academy Polo Team, formed by the Ride to the Olympics Foundation, made its competition debut at the 8th Annual Atlanta Polo Party during the 2025 Soul Symphony Weekend, achieving a 4-3 victory over the Starr Creek Polo Club.
Baltimore Arts Realty Corp. hosts 10-year anniversary celebration for Motor House
Motor House, a creative hub in Baltimore’s Station North Arts and Entertainment District, is celebrating its 10th anniversary with a free public celebration featuring live performances, food tastings, a documentary short premiere, and a dance party.
Lewis Museum opens new satellite gallery at The Village at Mondawmin with ‘Blacks In White’ exhibit
The Reginald F. Lewis Museum will open its first satellite gallery at The Village at Mondawmin with a ribbon cutting. Museum leadership, community partners and elected officials will gather at 10 a.m. on Sept. 19 to mark the launch of The Lewis at Mondawmin.
Kick off the start of the school year with Baltimore Center Stage’s family-friendly programming
Baltimore Center Stage launches its fall season of family-friendly programming on Sept. 13 with productions designed to spark wonder, laughter, and creativity. Highlights include “Magic & Hypnosis featuring David Anthony” (Sept. 13), “Cat Kid Comic Club: The Musical” (Sept. 26-28), and “Santa Claus Is Comin’: A Motown Christmas Revue” (Nov. 6–Jan. 4). Tickets and details are available at centerstage.org.
Morgan State University secures $1.75M grant from Robert Wood Johnson Foundation to plan launch of public, nonprofit M.D. medical school
Morgan State University has received a $1.75 million grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation to develop a plan for launching a public, nonprofit M.D. medical school — the first of its kind at Maryland’s largest HBCU. The two-year initiative aims to expand opportunities for underrepresented students, produce physicians committed to underserved communities, and strengthen Maryland’s health care workforce pipeline.

