Jocelyn E. - Expect Miracles Foundation
Jocelyn E. received an EMF SAMFund grant following her treatment from breast cancer, read her story of resilience| Expect Miracles Foundation
Jocelyn E. received an EMF SAMFund grant following her treatment from breast cancer, read her story of resilience| Expect Miracles Foundation
Associate Professor Minjie Li was recognized with the Early Career Teaching Excellence Award from the Advertising Division of the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC) at this year’s conference in San Francisco. This award honors outstanding undergraduate teaching and is given to individuals who have completed at least two full academic years […] The post Associate Professor Minjie Li Wins AEJMC Advertising Division Early Career Teaching Excellence Award a...| College of Communication and Information
At just 24 years old, Devon C. was charting a promising course in his career when an unexpected cancer diagnosis turned his world upside down.| Expect Miracles Foundation
Expect Miracles Foundation at Fenway Park 2025: Supporting another successful year of fundraising, Expect Miracles Foundation presented a check to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute before the Boston Red Sox game at Fenway Park on Friday, July 25. The post Expect Miracles Foundation at Fenway Park 2025 appeared first on Expect Miracles Foundation.| Expect Miracles Foundation
Ontay Johnson (he/him) I will never be the same and haven’t been since.” The National Urban Fellows program took Ontay on a journey that catapulted his personal and professional growth. As part of that experience, Ontay was compelled to critically evaluate his lived experiences and how they fit into the larger narrative of racial equity […]|
Essen Otu (he/him) Essen reached a point in his career where he knew he wouldn’t progress without furthering his education. When his boss told him he needed to get a Master’s, Essen knew he needed more than just a degree. In search of mentorship and community, he found a program that would clarify his path […]|
Benita Benavides (she/they) As a public servant motivated by labor empowerment, Benita recognized something was missing, hindering them from effectively building more inclusive communities. They knew something needed to change. When Benita found National Urban Fellows, they were thrust into a space they’d never seen coming. While placed at the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, Benita […]|
Calvin Williams (he/him) Calvin Williams reached an inflection point in his career. He was stuck in positions that didn’t allow him to make the level of impact he knew he could, if he were only given the opportunity. Seeing colleague after colleague with the same level of work and educational experience achieve promotion after promotion, […]|
Angelique Salizan (she/her) Angelique spent years building her career on Capitol Hill, but continued to hit a ceiling, seeing some of her colleagues with the same level of education moving through their careers at a faster pace. National Urban Fellows became her catalyst to break through those barriers, obtain an advanced degree and increase her […]|
In May, I sat down with A. Toni Young for Melanated Movement storytelling series, Movement Talks, where we had a robust conversation on what’s next and what need more attention in the fight to end the HIV epidemic. In the words of Young, “What is old, is new”. Young’s introduction to the HIV epidemic began […] The post Movement Talks: A Conversation with A Toni. Young appeared first on AIDS United.| AIDS United
Life took an unexpected turn in 2021 when Jennifer B. was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer. Amid her battle with cancer and its aftermath, Jennifer found hope and support through Expect Miracles Foundation (EMF).| Expect Miracles Foundation
Before she contacted CSE, Amy was struggling to keep up with the rising costs of energy and other necessities.| Centre for Sustainable Energy
The Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis (RAC) awarded a total of $3,723,212 in funding following the organizations’ 2025 grants cycle for arts and| Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis
Leo Events was recognized with a Rocky Top Business Award. Pictured from left to right are: Spencer Broocks, VP of Finance, Kevin Brewer, Co-Founder and Partner, Cindy Brewer, Co-Founder and Partner, and David Kenyon, Senior Vice President of Production. College of Communication and Information alumna Cindy Brewer (’91) believes exceptional professional communication is the most […] The post Rocky Top Business Award Alumni Feature: Cindy Brewer (’91), Co-Founder of LEO Events appeared f...| College of Communication and Information
From left: School of Journalism and Media Professor Emerita Dorothy Bowles; Lisa Hood Skinner (’80), Mack Hufford (Bonnie’s brother), and Fatima Hyder (’94). Bonnie Hufford put her all into what she did, whether she was teaching students proper grammar and Associated Press style or fundraising for the American Cancer Society. Before she passed away after […] The post Journalism & Media Alumni Team Up to Create Bonnie Hufford Endowment appeared first on College of Communication and Inf...| College of Communication and Information
When Kristina Clement (’18) took on her current role as assistant director of academic engagement and instruction for collegiate librarians at Kennesaw State University, she quickly began having informal conversations with library employees that inspired her to approach a colleague with an idea. It wasn’t long before Clement and her coworker, Karen Doster-Greenleaf, had a […] The post SIS Alumna Earns ALA Equality Award for Transforming Hiring Practices at KSU Libraries appeared first o...| College of Communication and Information
From lemonade stands to national recognition, Mike Maddux (’83) has achieved remarkable success with Moonshine Mountain Cookie Company. His entrepreneurial journey began long before the company was founded. As a child, he sold Kool-Aid and mistletoe. Now, as the owner of Moonshine Mountain Cookie Company, he’s earning national recognition from USA TODAY. Maddux’s career has […] The post Rocky Top Business Award Alumni Feature: Mike Maddux (‘83), Owner of Moonshine Mountain Cookie Co...| College of Communication and Information
MSIS Student Ginny Edwards is Changing Lives through Volunteering on Awards Committees| School of Information Sciences
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville’s School of Information Sciences master’s program has been ranked 13th in the nation among public universities by U.S. News and World Report. This is a significant achievement for the university, the College of Communication and Information (CCI), and the School of Information Sciences (SIS). These rankings highlight the growing strength […] The post UT’s MSIS Program Ranks 13th Among Public Institutions Nationally in U.S. News & World Report Ran...| School of Information Sciences
From being one of the fastest runners in the Bahamas to competing at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Javonya Valcourt is an exceptional track and field athlete and a dedicated junior studying information sciences at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Originally from the Bahamas, Valcourt’s journey took her to the United States, where she attended high […] The post Javonya Valcourt: Academic Achiever, Athlete, and Information Sciences Student appeared first on School of Information Sciences.| School of Information Sciences
Associate Professor Rachel Fleming-May’s passion for libraries didn’t originate from a family member or a past teacher; rather, it was inspired by a comic series she loved during her childhood. “If I’m being completely honest, I idolized Batgirl as a child. I watched Batgirl on the old Batman television series after school. Barbara Gordon, who […] The post Rachel Fleming-May Associate Professor: Empowering Students and Alumni appeared first on School of Information Sciences.| School of Information Sciences
Frankie Perry (’24) enjoys her role in the circulation department of the University of Memphis Ned McWherter Libraries. She has worked for the University of Memphis for over 30 years, spending the last 20 years in the library. However, until recently, she did not have a degree in information sciences. “I’ve been assisting the librarian […] The post Frankie Perry is Advancing Her Career Graduating with her Second Master’s in Information Sciences appeared first on School of Informat...| School of Information Sciences
Jeremiah King is a dedicated student at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, who recently completed a practicum experience at the Lenoir City Public Library. He has made significant contributions to the library and its community, particularly by focusing on expanding services for Spanish-speaking residents. King is in his second year of the Master of Science […]| School of Information Sciences
For many students who participate in a Tombras School of Advertising and Public Relations networking trip, it represents either their first or last major experience with the Tombras School and the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. These trips can inspire students’ career paths and enlighten them about opportunities and environments in their industry they would never […] The post Tombras School Students Gain Career Insights During Chicago Networking Trip appeared first on College of Comm...| College of Communication and Information
Eric Jackson (’90) never imagined he would own his own business when he began pursuing an advertising degree at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Today, he is the owner of Elements 47, LLC and a recipient of the 2025 Rocky Top Business Award. As a first-generation college student who became a successful business owner, Jackson […] The post Rocky Top Business Award Alumni Feature: Eric Jackson (’90), Owner of Element 47, LLC appeared first on College of Communication and Information.| College of Communication and Information
Kayla Siddell (‘13) is eager to mentor students and help them prepare for the real world, as she remembers what it is like to be in their position. Siddell earned her master’s degree in information sciences from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, in 2013. She is currently the chief operational officer (COO) of the Atlanta […]| College of Communication and Information
The School of Information Sciences recently held its Spring 2025 Awards Reception, honoring the outstanding achievements of students and alumni in both the bachelor’s and master’s programs, along with its faculty. Surrounded by family, friends, faculty, and staff, recipients were celebrated for their academic excellence, service, innovation, and impactful contributions to the SIS community. The […] The post SIS Recognizes 2025 Student, Faculty, and Alumni Award Winners appeared first on...| College of Communication and Information
Graduating senior and information sciences major Jenna Muetterties’ interest in web design and information technology began at a young age. “I remember always auditing different websites and seeing how they could be improved. I came to UT and discovered they had a UX design concentration, which was perfect for my skills and interests,” she stated. […] The post SIS Graduate Reflects on Lessons, Growth, and What’s Next appeared first on College of Communication and Information.| College of Communication and Information
From sports to sustainability, Ashlyn Miller is spending her senior year building a diverse background in public relations and communications. This semester, Miller was awarded the Shelton Group Fellowship, which is granted to one senior during the spring semester at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville’s College of Communication and Information. The fellowship includes a $2,500 […] The post Spring 2025 Shelton Group Fellow Ashlyn Miller Heads to New York, Fueled by College Opportunitie...| College of Communication and Information
After Joseph Edgerton graduates with his Master of Science in Information Sciences this May, he will begin his new role as a research data management librarian at the University of Virginia. His journey to this position was unexpected, but his experiences along the way helped him discover his true passions. “It feels really accepting and […] The post How CCI’s MSIS Program Helped Joseph Edgerton Launch a Fulfilling Career appeared first on College of Communication and Information.| College of Communication and Information
There have been many impactful moments in and out of the classrooms at the College of Communication and Information for Addison Lafayette, who is majoring in communication studies. Whether she was learning how to refine her public speaking skills, making new friends, going on networking trips around the country, or sitting in a class taught […] The post Graduating Senior Addison Lafayette Found Confidence & Impactful Opportunities at CCI appeared first on College of Communication and Inform...| College of Communication and Information
Even though junior Sydney Eyerly has five domestic trips and one study abroad trip with the School of Communication Studies under her belt, she was still blown away by her experience during the school’s newest student trip destination: Atlanta. Eyerly said learning about career options from professionals and networking with alumni in the Georgia metropolis […] The post Communication Studies Launches Inaugural Atlanta Networking Trip for Students appeared first on College of Communication ...| College of Communication and Information
The Alan and Wendy Wilson Communication and Leadership Academy, which will kick-off its inaugural year this fall, was dedicated April 11, 2025, in Circle Park. Along with several notable University of Tennessee, Knoxville, administrators and faculty, the event was also attended by students from the inaugural cohort of the Wilson Academy and media outlets that […] The post Alan and Wendy Wilson Communication and Leadership Academy Dedicated appeared first on College of Communication and Info...| College of Communication and Information
The Tennessee Library Association (TNLA) Conference was held this year at the Chattanooga Convention Center in downtown Chattanooga. TNLA is a professional organization dedicated to supporting librarians and library staff throughout Tennessee. Its mission is to promote quality library services, collaborate with related agencies, and support its members. Founded in 1902, TNLA is headquartered in […] The post SIS Strengthening Connections and Bringing the Volunteer Spirit to TNLA Conference a...| College of Communication and Information
When Ginny Edwards started to volunteer on different award committees, she didn’t think her vote could change the course of an author’s life. Edwards is currently pursuing her master’s degree in information sciences while working full-time as a children’s and teen librarian at Irondale Public Library in Irondale, Alabama. Her love for libraries began when […] The post MSIS Student Ginny Edwards is Changing Lives through Volunteering on Awards Committees appeared first on College o...| College of Communication and Information
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville’s School of Information Sciences master’s program has been ranked 13th in the nation among public universities by U.S. News and World Report. This is a significant achievement for the university, the College of Communication and Information (CCI), and the School of Information Sciences (SIS). These rankings highlight the growing strength […] The post UT’s MSIS Program Ranks 13th Among Public Institutions Nationally in U.S. News & World Report Ran...| College of Communication and Information
Five filmmakers were granted a total of $500,000 to create feature films and documentaries in St. Louis. Check out the project summaries.| Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis
Featured Image Springboard to Learning By Kallie Cox As the Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis celebrates its 40th anniversary, the organization has| Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis
Featured Image Metro Theater Company. From big, lively productions to intimate shows that move you, St. Louis’ performances are etched into its| Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis
By Kallie Cox Featured Image Courtesy of The Bach Society of St. Louis; Photo by STL Photo The Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis is a large part of what makes the city unique, and its funding of the art cements it as a destination of culture in the region. For over 40 years, RAC […] The post 40 Years of Funding Beauty: The Art Making the Gateway City a Destination appeared first on Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis.| Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis
Graciela has struggled to make ends meet as a single mom with four kids.| CEPAD
By Kallie Cox If you’ve ever enjoyed walking through the city and checking out its eye-catching murals, attending a free Shakespeare play in Forest Park,| Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis
For Hdayet, Bright Green Future provided a unique opportunity to connect with others who share his passion for the environment.| Centre for Sustainable Energy
The post Meet Felicia Beard: Changing the Narrative to Open Hearts & Minds appeared first on Greater Buffalo Racial Equity Roundtable.| Greater Buffalo Racial Equity Roundtable
The post 2023 Roundtable Partner Event appeared first on Greater Buffalo Racial Equity Roundtable.| Greater Buffalo Racial Equity Roundtable
Buffalo Futures provides current information on local career pathways that have low barriers to entry and pay family sustaining wages | Greater Buffalo Racial Equity Roundtable
Michael's home was so cold that his grandchildren couldn't visit him, leaving him isolated. Here's how our energy advisors helped.| Centre for Sustainable Energy
The post Meet Lt. David Mann: Advancing Equitable Outcomes in Juvenile Justice System appeared first on Greater Buffalo Racial Equity Roundtable.| Greater Buffalo Racial Equity Roundtable
Malawi’s Ministry of Health used DHIS2 Tracker to register and track its vaccine cold-chain equipment, cataloging more than 300 pieces of equipment across 20 districts in only four weeks.| DHIS2
Johandy, like many young adults in rural Nicaragua, found himself going to Costa Rica or other nearby cities in search of work. He is studying to be a primary school teacher and is passionate about working with youth. When CEPAD started to provide workshops in his community, Johandy got involved with our Youth Leadership Program, where he learned about stress, mental health, bullying, drug and alcohol abuse, teen pregnancy, and more. He felt more committed to staying in his community and help...| CEPAD
How do we create hope from tragedy? Move forward from something that sets us back? Create real and meaningful change? The Buffalo Together Community Response Fund (BCTRF) is on a collective journey looking for ways our community can come together to address these questions, the systemic issues behind them, and create long-term, transformative solutions for the East Side of Buffalo.| Greater Buffalo Racial Equity Roundtable
“Being in the program has helped me a lot. Before, I didn’t really like socializing with others; I was really shy. Now, I’m able to share about what I’ve learned with other youth in my community through games and conversation.”| CEPAD
“The land was the inheritance of our ancestors, which they gave us. I want to provide this same inheritance to my own children, adding in all that I’ve learned in CEPAD’s program.”| CEPAD
Enrique, a father to six daughters, was struggling to provide for his family as he tried farming staple crops like corn and sorghum. When he was invited to join CEPAD’s Sustainable Agriculture Program, Enrique learned new and organic farming techniques, which has allowed his farm to flourish.| CEPAD
Annemieke and Tim were struggling with damp and mould in their extension. Here's how taking part in a not-yet-green open home event helped.| Centre for Sustainable Energy
“I want my son to grow up with potable water, electricity, and good roads to walk on. I want to help create a community where the kids of the future feel dignity and aren’t embarrassed about where they live.“| CEPAD
Maura, along with her husband, are caring for their three small grandchildren now that their children have left the country in search of work. They were struggling to make ends meet and often struggled just to put food on the table. | CEPAD
Hannah Roth received an EMF SAMFund grant following her treatment from Hodgkin's lymphoma, read her story of resilience.| Expect Miracles Foundation
“CEPAD is the first organization that I have gotten involved with. The staff is very kind, organized, and responsible with the work that they do. They are always available for questions, helping not only with the Youth Leadership Program, but also with farmers and women. They involve the whole family.”| CEPAD
Much of rural Nicaragua continues to be a machista society, with women being constrained to traditionally women’s roles. CEPAD is trying to change that by empowering women and putting them in positions of leadership. Silvia is just one of the women leaders who is learning how to advocate for her community’s needs. | CEPAD
Garnell (left) is pictured here with Thomas Beauford, Dr. LaVonne Ansari and Felicia Beard, Associate Vice President, Racial Equity Initiatives at the Community Foundation, at a Community Foundation event, where they spoke on a panel about the Buffalo Together Community Response Fund.| Greater Buffalo Racial Equity Roundtable
Listen to EMF's Maggie Dombroski speak on the NicsaTalk Podcast where host Justine Phoenix dives deep into the 2024 Distance Challenge event.| Expect Miracles Foundation
“With no hidden agenda, we move the culture forward by telling people’s stories.” That is the tagline of The Blindspot, an interviewing platform dreamed up by Jamall Lewis Jr., a partner of Buffalo Futures, which is an initiative of the Racial Equity Roundtable’s Youth Employment Coalition. “I want to create a safe space for people in our community to be able to not only tell their stories, but to thrive in that space of communication,” said Jamall.| Greater Buffalo Racial Equity Roundtable
