BLK Leadership Accelerator
A capacity-building program for Black nonprofit leaders who are navigating the systemic challenges and are committed to building impactful and sustainable organizations that support the overall well-being of the community.
Course Description
2026 Program Features
Now in its third year, the BLK Leadership Accelerator has supported two completed cohorts of Black Executive Directors (2023–2024 and 2024–2025), engaging leaders across Maryland in focused leadership development, peer learning, and organizational growth.
The 2025–2026 cohort has been selected, and applications for this cycle are now closed.
Information about future Accelerator cohorts will be shared through the BLK ED Network website and newsletter.
Curriculum Format:
● 90 minutes
● Interactive
● In-person/Virtual (Hybrid)
● Course released each month
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Legal Structure for Non-Profit
Are you protecting your non-profit intellectual property? A non-profit needs legal protection, and this course will give you the basic insight into what you need and why.
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Non-Profit Finances
This course will teach you how to manage your revenue and expenses and other key factors around grant reports and knowing your numbers. Understanding your NPO finances helps you to build and sustain your budget.
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Board Governance
Board of Directors has fiduciary responsibilities and maintains the lifeline to your community. You will need to understand board governance and responsibilities.
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Fundraising 101 - Grants / Corporate Sponsors / Earned Revenue
Fundraising is the top priority for any organization. This course will provide you with information about the different streams of income such as grants, corporate sponsors, and earned revenue.
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Executive Presence
How you show up as a leader matters. This course focuses on building confidence, authenticity, and authority in professional settings. You’ll learn practical tools for public speaking, board interactions, and high-stakes conversations so you can represent yourself and your organization with clarity and strength.
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Value of Collaboration
Understanding the value added to collaborating with other organizations. Collaborating with other organizations can help you serve more people in the community, opportunities for more funding, and build community.
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Know Your Numbers - Theory of Change / Program Evaluation
Do you know how many people you serve per year? How much money do you need to run your organization? This course will help you identify key metrics around data evaluation. We will also introduce the Theory of Change methodology to understand what solution to provide to the community.
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Mental Health & Leadership
Sustaining your organization starts with sustaining yourself. This course integrates mental health strategies into leadership practice, helping you recognize burnout, set healthy boundaries, and create supportive cultures for your team. You’ll leave with tools to manage stress and foster resilience in both your personal and organizational leadership.
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Networking: Building Relationship
Social Capital is a part of the formula to maintain your NPO organization. Do you have relationships with your funders? Networking is the key to building community and creating opportunities for all. Learn the key components of networking within the philanthropy industry.
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Business of Giving
Treating your nonprofit like a business. How to use your business mindset to give back to the community. This course will include Case studies of other non-profit organizations such as Rolex/ Churches/ NFL/ Black Lives Matter. Book Reading suggestion: Dan Pallotta, Charity Case
BLK Leadership Accelerator
2025-2026 application form
The BLK Leadership Accelerator is designed for Black Executive Directors and senior nonprofit leaders who want to strengthen their leadership skills, expand their networks, and increase their organizational impact. The application period for the 2025–2026 cohort is now closed.
2025-2026 cohort
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Shawna R. McMillan
Shawna R. McMillan is an educator and systems-builder with nearly a decade of experience advancing equitable education for children and families. She leads Navigating Advocacy for Meaningful Education (N.A.M.E.) and serves as Lead Educator and Program Coordinator at SAFE Alternative Foundation for Education, supporting special education advocacy, workforce readiness, and family-centered learning across Baltimore.
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Johnny D. Martin Jr.
Johnny D. Martin Jr. is the Founder and Executive Director of Cooperative Community Development Inc., leading resident-driven revitalization efforts in West Baltimore. His work centers workforce development, cooperative economics, and neighborhood pride through initiatives that create jobs and strengthen community infrastructure.
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Namia G. Vance
Namia G. Vance is the Founder and Executive Director of Suitable Attire, Inc., a Baltimore-based nonprofit providing workforce development training and professional attire to young adults entering the workforce. With over 20 years of experience across HR, government, and community organizations, she is committed to preparing future leaders for long-term career success.
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Mark Breland
Mark Breland is the Founder and Director of Nuvoterz America, a nonprofit using art and creative media to promote youth voter literacy and civic engagement. With a background in performing arts, entrepreneurship, and energy brokerage, he brings creative strategy and community-focused leadership to social impact work.
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Yvonne V. Terry, MBA
Yvonne V. Terry is the Executive Director of Baltimore Outreach Services, where she leads housing and trauma-informed support programs for women and children experiencing homelessness. With more than 15 years of nonprofit leadership experience, she brings expertise in fund development, strategic growth, and community engagement.
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Teara Q. Booker
Teara Q. Booker is the Founder and Executive Director of Well Rooted Birth & Wellness, a maternal health organization providing culturally responsive care, education, and advocacy for families. With more than two decades of public service and maternal health experience, she leads community-centered programs grounded in safety, dignity, and informed choice.
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Nayanie Henriquez
Nayanie Henriquez is the Founder of Sacral Roots and Program Manager for the P.E.A.C.E. Project, where she supports maternal mental health and perinatal care coordination for birthers and families in Maryland. A Certified Maternal Mental Health Peer Specialist and Full-Spectrum Doula, she designed Maryland’s only Doula Partnership Cost-Share Program and brings lived experience, advocacy, and compassion to advancing equitable maternal care for Black families.
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Cari A. Harris, MS, PMP
Cari A. Harris is the Founder and Principal Consultant of The Butterfly Effect and Founder and President of the CCT Foundation, where she advances organizational strategy, economic development, and community-centered change. Through her leadership, she launched the Greater Baltimore Climate Initiative and serves on multiple state and regional advisory bodies focused on climate, clean energy, and environmental quality.
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Shayla S. Simmons
Shayla S. Simmons is an award-winning actress, arts educator and Executive Director of NguzoArt. She leads principled, performance-based programming celebrating cultural heritage and history. Her work integrates culturally responsive arts learning, social-emotional development, and interactive instruction to increase student engagement while strengthening confidence, communication, literacy, and critical thinking in youth and young adults.
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Corey P. Holland
Corey P. Holland is the Founder and Executive Director of Charm City Impact, a fiscal sponsorship and capacity-building organization supporting emerging Black-led nonprofits across Baltimore and the DMV. Through coaching, compliance support, and financial stewardship, he helps founders move from idea to sustainable impact with clarity and accountability.
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Robin Ann Neverdon
Robin Ann Neverdon is the Founder and Executive Director of In Our Neighborhood and You Are Never Alone, leading initiatives that support women in recovery, re-entry, and long-term stability. A Baltimore City Women’s Commissioner and recipient of multiple community recognitions, including a Governor’s Citation, she advances access to transitional housing, mental health support, and economic opportunity for women across Baltimore.
2024-2025 cohort
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Anthony Hudgins II
Anthony Hudgins II is the Executive Director of Southwest Sports and Fitness Alliance, Inc., where he works to expand access to quality youth and adult sports programs in Southwest Baltimore. Inspired by his own childhood in Philadelphia, where sports built lifelong friendships and strengthened community bonds, Anthony is committed to creating similar opportunities in his current neighborhood. With a career rooted in sports and recreation, he leads efforts to bring impactful programs and facilities that promote health, connection, and positive change.
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Ashley Esposito
Ashley “Ash” Esposito is the Executive Director of Baltimore Unity Hall, bringing a unique blend of fundraising expertise, artistic vision, and community leadership. With a decade of experience as a freelance artist and over ten years at the Maryland Department of Human Services, specializing in automation and development, she bridges creativity with operational excellence. Ash’s past leadership with organizations like the Baltimore Abortion Fund and Baltimore Renters United reflects her commitment to accessibility, storytelling, and community placemaking, skills she now channels into fostering inclusive, vibrant spaces at Unity Hall.
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Chanay Banks
Chanay Banks is the Founder and Executive Director of Charlene’s Circle of Support, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering youth whose lives are impacted by parental mental illness, substance abuse, or incarceration. Drawing on her background in finance and higher education—, and her own firsthand experience of the power of community, Chanay leads programs that nurture mental well-being through care packages, group mentorship, and educational resources. Her work equips vulnerable youth with the skills, tools, and support systems they need to overcome challenges and pursue their goals with confidence.
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Darell Calicker
Darrell Calicker is the Founder and Executive Director of Insurance Knowledge Evolution (IKE), a nonprofit dedicated to preparing minority youth for careers in the insurance and financial industries. With over 20 years of experience in insurance, Darrell founded IKE to address the industry’s lack of representation by offering education, mentorship, and paid internships. Since launching in 2022, IKE has introduced more than 500 youth to these fields, including 300+ in 2024 alone. His vision is to expand IKE into a multi-state organization, reaching over 1,000 youth annually and creating pathways for long-term career success.
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Dr. Nia Imani Fields
Dr. Nia Imani Fields is the Executive Director of GreenLight Fund Baltimore, where she leads efforts to identify and launch proven programs that address the city’s most pressing needs. With over 17 years of experience in youth development, leadership, and community engagement, she has held senior roles in both nonprofit and public sectors. Dr. Fields earned her doctorate in Urban Educational Leadership and is recognized for her equity-driven approach to creating opportunities for underserved communities. She is committed to fostering economic mobility, leadership, and long-term impact for the next generation.
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Dr. Yusef Bunchy Shakur
Dr. Yusef Bunchy Shakur is the Co-Executive Director of the Michigan Roundtable for Just Communities, where he works to build Just and Beloved communities across the state. A lifelong neighborhood organizer in Detroit’s Z8ne, he draws inspiration from the love, humor, and sacrifices of his late mother, Ava Jo. Known for his commitment to racial and social justice, Dr. Shakur brings a deeply rooted community perspective to his leadership. He holds a PhD in Public Policy & Social Change from Union Institute & University and an MSW from the University of Michigan.
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Fatima Askew
Fatima Askew is the Founder and Executive Director of Faith in Family Community Center Inc., a Baltimore-based nonprofit established in 2018. The Center serves as a community hub that enriches lives through educational workshops, cultural events, and a welcoming atmosphere where residents of all ages can connect, learn, and grow. Fatima leads the organization with a deep commitment to inclusion and empowerment, creating a space where families and neighbors come together to thrive.
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Keisha Blake
Keisha M. Blake is the founder and executive director of The I AM Me Project Inc., a Baltimore-based nonprofit that empowers young women ages 11-18 through leadership development, life skills, and self-advocacy. Since 2015, she has led programs that help participants build confidence, embrace their identity, and expand their opportunities. Keisha holds degrees in Human and Family Services and Human Service Administration, along with certifications in ACEs Interface, Youth Mental Health First Aid, and Healthy Outcomes from Positive Experiences. With over 20 years of experience in pediatric radiology at The Johns Hopkins Hospital, she blends professional expertise with a deep commitment to youth well-being.
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Dr. Meleny Thomas
Meleny Thomas, PhD serves as the executive director of the South Baltimore Community Land Trust. With more than 15 years of experience supporting youth, families, and community-led initiatives, she is committed to fair and inclusive growth. Meleny holds a Bachelor’s in Psychology, a Master’s in Nonprofit Management and Leadership, and a Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration with a specialization in Nonprofit Management and Leadership. In her role, she oversees multi-million-dollar funding allocations to create permanently affordable housing in South Baltimore and advocates for the needs of marginalized communities, including her own.
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Michael Fountain
Michael Fountain is an active member of Black Professionals in International Affairs, bringing 1-3 years of experience and a strong interest in building professional connections. Based in Alexandria, VA, Michael participates in both in-person and virtual spaces, focusing on networking strategies and personal branding. His commitment to professional growth is matched by his enthusiasm for engaging with peers and industry leaders to expand opportunities in the international affairs field. Michael is eager to connect with others, share insights, and contribute to collaborative learning environments.
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Nicole Bryant
Nicole Bryant founded We Responders Inc. in 2022 to equip everyday people, especially in underserved and high-risk communities, with essential life-saving skills like CPR, Stop the Bleed, and emergency response. Her passion for preparedness stems from growing up in Baltimore City and experiencing profound personal losses, including the death of her father from a fentanyl overdose and her 1-year-old nephew in 2020. Under her leadership, We Responders has trained thousands and expanded its mission to include overdose prevention, substance abuse awareness, trauma-informed care, and mental health support. Nicole’s dedication reflects her vision of building safer, more resilient communities where neighbors are ready to act when every second counts.
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Robin Ann Neverdon
Robin Ann Neverdon, Founder and Executive Director of In Our Neighborhood, is a committed leader in women’s recovery, re-entry, and long-term stability. A graduate of Western High School, she serves as a Baltimore City Women’s Commissioner and has received nine citations and recognitions, including a Governor’s Citation for her extensive community work. Robin also founded You Are Never Alone, a nonprofit providing supportive housing and wraparound services for individuals in recovery. Through In Our Neighborhood, she expands access to transitional housing, mental health support, and economic opportunities for women. She also serves on two community boards focused on recovery, homelessness, and life transformation, reflecting her deep commitment to advocacy, equity, and service.
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Tracey Malone
Tracey Malone is the Founder and Executive Director of Eddie B Productions, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to creating safe spaces where joy, celebration, and community connection thrive. Based in Baltimore, MD, the organization has been serving the community through events and gatherings that bring people together in uplifting, welcoming environments. Eddie B Productions operates with the belief that “celebrating is a must,” ensuring every occasion is filled with smiles, positivity, and a sense of belonging. Under Tracey’s leadership, the nonprofit continues to provide spaces where all are welcomed and valued.
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Tanasha Dalton
Tanasha Dalton is the Founder and Executive Director of ATRISK Girls, Inc., a Baltimore-based nonprofit redefining what “at-risk” means for middle school girls. Officially incorporated as a 501(c)(3) in April 2024, the organization builds on Tanasha’s work at Westport Academy during the 2023-2024 school year, where she led a co-curricular program for girls navigating complex challenges. Through close collaboration with school staff and direct engagement with students, she saw the urgent need for consistent, positive enrichment. Today, ATRISK Girls provides programming that supports girls’ growth, confidence, and resilience in the face of early exposure to trauma.
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Taylor Mitchell
Taylor Mitchell is the Executive Director of Platform of Hope and a bilingual leader with nine years of experience developing multicultural, multigenerational teams. A graduate of the University of Maryland, College Park, with a degree in Spanish Language, Literature, and Culture, she began her career in education through City Year DC, where she built an equity-focused mindset that continues to guide her work. Most recently, she directed a large before- and after-school enrichment program for a diverse bilingual community. Fluent in Spanish and English, Taylor has designed training for microbusiness managers in Nicaragua, tutored Spanish students, and remains committed to mentorship, coaching, and advocacy for multilingual education.
2023-2024 cohort
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Geri McCarter
Geri McCarter, “Coach G,” is the CEO of Coach G Academy, Inc., which empowers youth to prosper academically, physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially by providing programming shaped by 5 Pillars of success, access to artistic and athletic outlets, and access to mentorship.
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Jayson Green
Jayson Green is the Executive Director of New Song Community Learning Center in Sandtown-Winchester. Building on its rich history as a community-based non-profit, New Song Community Learning Center is creating a dynamic community wellness hub through partnerships, collaborations, and community engagement that focus on education, health, and workforce development.
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Dyon Davidson
Dyon Davidson is the Founder and Executive Director of Beadly Speaking Jewelry. A seasoned educator with 21 years of experience, Dyon faced a pivotal moment in 2004 when her mother suffered a brain aneurysm. In response, she taught herself how to make jewelry, inadvertently creating a therapeutic outlet that not only aided her mother's recovery but also became a catalyst for positive change in her community.
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Tamaneisha Thibodeaux
Tamaneisha Thibodeaux is the Founder and Executive Director of Tammy’s Angels, an organization dedicated to providing support and resources to those experiencing poverty and homelessness in Baltimore, MD. Tammy’s Angels seek to create a world where all individuals, regardless of their housing status or beliefs, can access the resources and support they need to live a better life daily.
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Janice Bryant-Baker
Janice Bryant-Baker is the Founder and Executive Director of The Real Wings, Inc., an organization designed to be a positive, interactive program that brings confidence and pride to teen and preteen girls and boys. R.E.A.L stands for Realist, Enthusiastic, Adaptable, and Loving. W.I.N.G.S stands for Where Impressive Notable Girls Shine. The organization will teach etiquette, poise, finance, health, and spiritual awareness in ways that participants will enjoy.
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Andrea Scott
Andrea Scott is the Founder and Executive Director of Green Dollar Project, Inc., an outreach program based in Maryland that provides wrap-around services to clients and their families. The Green Dollar Project focuses on life coaching with its 3 pillars: Peer-to-Peer Mentorship, Financial, and Soft Skills Training.
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Dr. Heather Lamb
Dr. Heather Lamb is the Founder and Executive Director of Social & Economic Empowerment through Knowledge, Inc. (SEEK). Social & Economic Empowerment through Knowledge, Inc. (SEEK) was established in 2019 to provide education, training, social justice awareness, adult literacy, and empowerment to at-risk and underserved adults and individuals.
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Shay Sharpe
Shay Sharpe is the Founder and Executive Director of Shay Sharpe's Pink Wishes. The organization educates, advocates, mentors, supports, shares resources, and grants wishes to children & young women under the age of 40 who have been affected by terminal breast cancer.
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Donna Bruce
Donna Bruce is the Founder and CEO of Donna Bruce Unlimited Inc., an organization that integrates life skills education and arts alongside innovative education in untraditional ways. DBU’s mission is to equip individuals with transformative peer support and trauma-informed cosmetology training, fostering empowerment and holistic well-being.
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Nicole Davis
Nicole Davis is the Founder and Executive Director of H.U.R Stories Outreach. The organization was created to prepare young women for womanhood and encourage them along the way. We want our women to learn how to love themselves from the inside out. This will allow them to create a strong foundation, acknowledging that they are worthy of greatness.
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Kammeran Giggers
Kammeran Giggers is the Founder of R.I.S.E., an organization that provides a multidisciplinary arts education to a diverse range of youth while placing a special focus on underserved communities and youth and young adults with autism and/or other intellectual disabilities in Baltimore City.
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Alexandria Maloney
Alexandria J. Maloney, MPA, currently serves as the President of The International Association of Black Professionals in International Affairs (BPIA), an organization founded in 1989 to increase the involvement of African Americans and those of African descent in international affairs.
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Maleeka Glover
Dr. Maleeka Glover is the Executive Director of WCAPS. The organization believes that global issues demand a variety of perspectives; that’s why it created a platform devoted to women of color that cultivates a strong voice and network for its members while encouraging dialogue and strategies for engaging in policy discussions on an international scale.
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Jarvis Patterson-Askew
Jarvis Patterson-Askew is the Founder of Community Harvest. CH’s mission is to strengthen and nourish communities with healthy food at the center of every table every day in Baltimore.
Participant testimonials
Donna Bruce, CEO & Founder
“Thank you for the incredible experience and support throughout this program. Your guidance has been instrumental in helping me build upon my repertoire. It was an honor to be among such amazing community leaders. I look forward to watching the impactful work you all will continue to do. Remember, community is everybody's business.”
Nicole Davis, Founder & Executive Director
“The accelerator has helped me with making sound decisions for my organization and helped me become more aware of the issues that can arise.”
Tamaneisha Thibodeaux, Founder & Executive Director
“We have implemented new policies to attract board members - thanks to the accelerator program”
2024-2025 Cohort Member, BLK Leadership Accelerator (Anonymous)
“Being a part of this cohort has helped me recognize my potential and encouraged me not to give up on myself. I realize I am not alone; everyone faces challenges along their journey. I have learned the importance of asking for help from others. I understand that when I confront a difficult situation, I need to set aside my pride and involve my board and volunteers so we can work together as a team to resolve the issue. As a result, I have learned how to delegate effectively.”
2024-2025 gallery
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Inspire
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Connect
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Succeed
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Collaborate
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Grow
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Elevate
2023-2024 gallery
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Inspire
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Connect
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Succeed
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Collaborate
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Grow
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Elevate
INVEST IN OUR LEADERS
Uplift, grow, and advocate
Through our community, we seek to address the disparities in nonprofit leadership by creating mentorship, professional development, and the collective sharing of thoughts and ideas in culturally safe spaces where black leaders are affirmed in their identity.
BLK ED Network is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization.