Howard University alumna Skyler Buchanan and Bowie State University alumna Chanel Turner have each carved unique paths in entrepreneurship—Buchanan with her custom rug business, Decor Ones, and Turner with her premium vodka brand, FOU-DRÉ. From a home studio to international shelves, both women continue to grow their ventures with persistence and a clear creative vision.
Tag: Howard University
Howard University president announces departure
By Ashleigh Fields Special to the AFRO Dr. Ben Vinson III will soon depart from his role as president of Howard University, just two years after being selected to lead the historically Black institution. Howard University officials announced that Vinson would step down from the role on Aug. 31 with former President Wayne A.I. Frederick […]
Not a monolith: Reflections on ralph lauren, oak bluffs, and the beautiful complexity of Black legacy
By Lynn “Elle” Selby When Ralph Lauren unveiled his latest collection honoring Morehouse College, Spelman College and the Black American tradition of summering in Oak Bluffs, it wasn’t just about clothes. It was a quiet affirmation of something many of us already know: we are not a monolith. For some, the collection was a revelation. […]
Howard University partners with Google to launch AI speech recognition initiative
Howard University President Ben Vincent III touts groundbreaking initiative to include Black dialect in artificial intelligence (AI) development.
How Tee J Mercer turns compassion into action for college-bound youth leaving foster care
Tee J Mercer, a Howard University alumna, founded Move-In Day Mafia to support college-bound foster youth attending HBCUs by providing move-in assistance, monthly care packages, and lasting mentorship. Since its founding, the initiative has helped 84 students across 21 HBCUs and continues to grow, with Mercer calling on more “miracle makers” to join the mission.
Building confidence and change through theatre
Over nearly 50 years, Penumbra Theatre in Saint Paul, Minn. has evolved from a pioneering Black arts institution into a national leader in racial healing and artistic excellence. Meanwhile, Tacoma Urban Performing Arts Center empowers Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) youth with classical arts training that builds confidence, discipline and cultural pride.
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority returns to D.C. for 57th National Convention
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. hosted its 57th National Convention in Washington, D.C., drawing more than 20,000 members to the city where it was founded in 1913. The five-day event celebrated over 111 years of sisterhood, scholarship and service, and featured public meetings, civic engagement and educational forums focused on issues impacting the Black community.
NABJ set to host their annual convention – and celebrate 50th anniversary – in Cleveland
The National Association of Black Journalists will celebrate its 50th anniversary at its annual convention in Cleveland this August, honoring its legacy of advocating for Black media representation. The event will feature major industry partners, career opportunities, and a focus on uplifting young Black journalists.
Shawn Joseph shares first 100-day plan as Prince George’s County’s interim superintendent
Shawn Joseph, a former deputy superintendent for Prince George’s County Public Schools, has returned to lead the district as interim superintendent following Millard House II’s resignation. Joseph says his top priorities include improving academic outcomes, strengthening community engagement and ensuring the district’s operations run efficiently.
Deltas on the Fairway: Celebrating the legacy of Helen Webb Harris
Helen Webb Harris, a pioneering educator and founder of the nation’s first African American women’s golf club, will be recognized at the Deltas on the Fairway National Golf Tournament on July 8 at the University of Maryland Golf Course.
Shaping the future: Black leadership in tech regulation
Black EdTech leaders are advocating for inclusive policies and IP protections to ensure their innovations are culturally relevant and equitable, and to build a digital future that works for all.
Howard University and PNC National Center for Entrepreneurship convenes entrepreneurs, investors and HBCU leaders for Empowerment Summit
Howard University and the PNC National Center for Entrepreneurship are hosting the 2025 HBCU Entrepreneurship Empowerment Summit in Washington, D.C., bringing together innovators, investors, and HBCU leaders to foster business growth, collaboration and economic impact.

