Outspoken St. Petersburg Democratic Rep. Michele Rayner delivered an emotional farewell to the House, reflecting on her legislative career, personal hardships, and cross-party relationships as she prepares to pursue a Senate seat.
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In collaboration with the American Constitution Society and Federal Bar Association student organizations, Cooley Law School hosted a Florida Rights Restoration Coalition presentation on March 5. The goal of the event was to educate attendees on restoring voter rights and shed light on critical areas of criminal justice reform.
Centered on the theme “Rooted in Legacy, Rising in Excellence,” this year’s observance carries historic significance as the university celebrates the leadership of its 15th president, William C. McCormick Jr., a proud alumnus whose presidency represents a full-circle moment in the institution’s 147-year journey.
From a teen perspective, learning about Wendell Scott feels like discovering a hero who refused to let history box him in. When most people picture early stock car racing, they don’t imagine a Black driver fighting for space on the track, but Scott did exactly that. He raced during a time when opportunities weren’t just limited; they were actively blocked. Still, he showed up with skill, confidence, and a determination that said, I belong here too.
Some journeys don’t begin with a plan. They begin with a nudge. A conversation. Someone saying, “You’re ready,” even when you’re not completely sure you are. That’s how my path into the National Forum for Black Public Administrators (NFBPA) began, unexpectedly, without a roadmap, but fueled by encouragement. I said yes without knowing exactly where the road would lead. What I’ve learned since is that the road doesn’t always make sense at first, but it stretches you in the ways you need most.
Cannabis is poised to be a major issue in 2026, as a federal effort to lower its classification moves forward and some states face initiatives to roll back adult-use laws. In Florida, lawmakers are weighing changes to medical marijuana policy, while a proposed constitutional amendment to legalize recreational marijuana failed to qualify for the November ballot.
We recently received a meaningful donation in support of our School Safety Project from Lori Alhadeff, CEO and founder of Make Our Schools Safe, a nationally recognized school safety organization. Ms. Alhadeff’s advocacy work and continued commitment to protecting students nationwide made this contribution especially impactful for our school community.
Empowered To Thrive Inc., founded by Deetra Sands Durham, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to building meaningful partnerships and sharing knowledge, awareness, and essential services to support all women affected by cancer particularly minority women who often face disparities in care and re-sources.
Col. Nichole Anderson, who made history in 2019 as the first African American woman to serve as undersheriff at the Broward Sheriff’s Office, is no longer second in command following a leadership shake-up announced by Sheriff Gregory Tony.
On Thursday, February 26, the South Florida Branch of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) co-sponsored a powerful forum at The Circuit on Sistrunk Boulevard in partnership with South Florida Community Partners, Inc. (SFCP), an environmental justice organization serving the region since 1996.