Coppin State University brought together elected officials, business leaders and community advocates for its 2026 Economic Inclusion and Innovation Research Conference, focusing on strategies to expand economic mobility and investment in West Baltimore. Panelists highlighted ongoing revitalization efforts along the West North Avenue corridor, including housing redevelopment, small business support and workforce development initiatives aimed at strengthening neighborhood wealth-building opportunities.
Tag: Delegate Melissa Wells
Baltimore County delegate elected chair of Maryland Legislative Black Caucus
Delegate N. Scott Phillips (D–District 10) has been unanimously elected chair of the Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland following leadership shifts in the General Assembly. Phillips, the first chair from Baltimore County, pledged to center policies that advance Black Marylanders, while Sen. Shaneka Henson was elected first vice chair after Delegate Melissa Wells’ appointment to a new House committee. Founded in 1970, the caucus now counts 67 members statewide.
Maryland District 40 and 45 candidates discuss strategies to support Black businesses
Candidates for Maryland’s Districts 40 and 45 gathered at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum to discuss ways to strengthen Black-owned businesses, improve access to capital and expand workforce development opportunities. Panelists highlighted the need for unbundled contracts, stronger apprenticeship programs and targeted investment in historic Black business corridors.
Maryland leaders praise Speaker Adrienne Jones as she steps down from historic, transformative tenure
News of Maryland House Speaker Adrienne A. Jones’ immediate departure from her speakership role in the state legislature has led to an outpouring of love and appreciation for her time as the first woman and first Black person to hold the role. Leaders across the state credited her with steady, principled leadership through crises, landmark legislative victories, and major investments in HBCUs and underserved communities.
Baltimore residents attend annual legislative evening in Annapolis
Maryland State Sen. Antonio Hayes and Delegates Marlon Amprey and Melissa Wells invited over 100 Baltimore residents to “An Evening in Annapolis with District 40” to learn about the work their representatives are doing in the General Assembly on their behalf.

