By Megan SaylesAFRO Staff Writermsayles@afro.com The National Center on Institutions and Alternatives (NCIA) closed out national Second Chance Month with a $500,000 federal grant secured by Congressman Kweisi Mfume (D-Md.-07) during the federal appropriations process to support returning citizens and prevent recidivism. The funds, which were delivered on April 27, will be used for 50 […]
Category: !Front Page Baltimore News
Coppin State University Ball hosts ‘powerful’ night of Black excellence
By Kendra BryantSpecial to the AFRO Coppin State University (CSU) hosted its annual ball, “An Ode to Black Excellence,” on May 2 at the Baltimore Marriott Waterfront, celebrating 126 years of nurturing potential and transforming lives. Each year, the ball serves as a time to honor the past, while also drumming up financial support for […]
Conway leads MONSE oversight hearing after IG report findings
By Tashi McQueen AFRO Staff Writer tmcqueen@afro.com Councilman Mark Conway (D-District 4) led a public safety legislative oversight hearing on April 28 focused on the Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement (MONSE). The hearing followed an investigative report from the Baltimore City Office of the Inspector General (OIG) that raised concerns about potential fraud […]
‘Hats, gloves and brilliance’: Black community shines at the AFRO’s 2026 Baltimore Tea
Nearly 1,200 guests gathered in Baltimore for the AFRO’s 2026 Baltimore Tea, celebrating Black excellence and honoring women leaders across corporate, nonprofit and civic spaces. The annual sold-out event highlighted the achievements of Black women in executive roles while fostering community, tradition and intergenerational connection.
Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott named president of African American Mayors Association
Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott is now president of the African American Mayors Association. Read more about the selection and the organization’s recent conference in Washington, D.C. on AFRO.com.
The AFRO’s Baltimore Tea returns with spotlight on women in the C-suite
The AFRO’s 2026 Baltimore Tea will be held April 25 at Martin’s West from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Each year the event serves as a time to celebrate the Black community and bring together the best of Baltimore. Shown here, 2025 attendees Jade Madden (left), Michelle Johnson and Dikesha Robinson.
Philadelphia’s Jermaine Dawson named new CEO of Baltimore City Public Schools
Dr. Jermaine Dawson has been announced as the new CEO of Baltimore City Public Schools.
Branson Oduor, 27-year-old missing Baltimore man, found dead
Baltimore police recovered the body of 27-year-old Branson Oduor on April 14 in the Inner Harbor after he was reported missing following a night out in Fells Point almost two weeks prior. Authorities are still investigating the cause of death. Loved ones remember him as a caring, outgoing person deeply connected to the city.
Funeral home founder Al Wylie celebrates his 80th birthday with street renaming ceremony
Community members gathered to celebrate the 80th birthday of funeral home founder Al P. Wylie on April 10 at Wylie Funeral Homes. Wylie received personal certificates from Baltimore City State’s Attorney Ivan Bates and Baltimore City Police Department Western District’s Major Natalia Preston and a street was renamed in his honor.
Devin Allen takes the helm for SCOUT, Baltimore’s affordable art fair
Baltimore photographer Devin Allen has been named curator of SCOUT 2026, the city’s affordable art fair held as part of Artscape. As curator, Allen will spotlight local and national artists while helping build stronger connections between creators and the community.”
Moore unveils Baltimore Transit-Oriented Development Plan
State and local officials unveiled the Baltimore Regional Transit-Oriented Development Strategy at Rogers Avenue Metro Station on April 6. The strategy aims to boost housing, expand transit access and drive economic growth, including 400 new housing units and major Light Rail investments.
Baltimore Police Department launches neurodivergent individuals database, expands tools to support safer interactions
By Baltimore Police Department In recognition of World Autism Acceptance Month and World Autism Awareness Day on April 2, the Baltimore Police Department (BPD) is proud to launch a new initiative designed to better support neurodivergent individuals and enhance safe, effective interactions with law enforcement. BPD’s Community Partnerships Unit is introducing a Neurodivergent Individuals Database, […]

