(Houston) October 12, 2022 – Aflac and Texas Southern University’s Center for Biomedical and Minority Health Research (CBMHR) announced the awarding of a $200,000 Aflac CareGrant. The grant will help to advance health equity for diseases that disproportionately impact underrepresented communities and will be split between community support/education and health-related research.
Aflac selected Texas Southern University for its CBMHR, which oversees robust research and community-level initiatives that support underrepresented communities both locally and nationally.
Following a check presentation, Aflac’s incoming president, Virgil Miller, and TSU President Dr. Lesia Crumpton-Young also unveiled TSU’s Aflac Park Bench, a natural space of rest, reflection, peace and comfort for the Texas Southern University community. The bench, which is bright blue and designed with the famous Aflac duck mascot, is located at the start of the TSU fitness trail behind Durley Stadium.
“The impact of this partnership with Aflac is felt in the lives of our students and also in the life of our community,” said Dr. Crumpton-Young. “It gives us an opportunity to focus on transforming the lives of our students and our faculty who will be engaged in the partnership activities. It allows us to tranform the lives of many individuals from the quality research we will conduct. We want to thank Aflac for coming to TSU to join us in the mission of transforming lives.”
Aflac’s CareGrants program supports the company’s commitment to supporting organizations that are helping close the gap for individuals and communities currently suffering from or highly exposed to medical debt. The program is informed by the Aflac Care Index, a nationwide study examining Americans’ awareness of and exposure to debt resulting from medical bills not covered by insurance. The Aflac Care Index identified 11 U.S. states that over-index for vulnerability to medical debt due to lack of savings; Texas was among the 11 states identified as having the most medical debt exposure.
“We are here today to honor and advance the work of TSU’s CBMHR, including its important research into diseases that disproportionately impact underrepresented populations and its critically important support of the local community,” said Miller. “Providing support to organizations like TSU helps ensure people get the care they need, when they need it. This shows the common vision between Aflac and TSU – helping to close the medical gap that many Americans face, especially here in the local community.”
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October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
