
community Hub
Black Excellence Spotlight: Dr. Charles Champion
The Memphis Urban League Remembers
Born in Memphis in 1930, Dr. Champion made serving the community and developing products that promote healing with natural ingredients his life’s work. The quintessential pharmacist and herbalist met and befriended many a number of people during his life’s journey, to count them would be difficult to calculate.

A 1955 graduate of Xavier University College of Pharmacy, he was drafted into the U.S. Army shortly after obtaining his degree. He served as a pharmacist in Germany during a two-year tour of duty. Back in Memphis, he began working at John Gaston Hospital’s pharmacy, solidifying his place in history as the first African American pharmacist to work in a Memphis hospital. After 12 years at John Gaston, Dr. Champion took a job at Katz Drug Store and became the first African American pharmacist hired by a chain in the city.
Champion’s Pharmacy and Herb Store is a family business established by Dr. Champion and his wife, Carolyn Bailey Champion, in 1981. Champion’s Pharmacy and Herb Store has been the center of a community orbit anchored by Dr. Champion, who had the enviable quality of leaving the individuals he met with the sense that he appreciated their uniqueness as part of the whole. Dr. Champion passed away on January 21, 2023.
Our News & Announcements
Memphis Urban League’s Mardi Gras Gala Celebrates Community Empowerment on Beale Street
Memphis Urban League's Mardi Gras Gala Celebrates Community Empowerment on Beale Street The Memphis Urban League invites you to "Let the Good Times Roll" at the MUL Mardi Gras Gala while supporting its mission to empower communities. The event is...
Memphis Urban League Boosts Careers with Free Keyboarding Training
Memphis Urban League Boosts Careers with Free Keyboarding Training MEMPHIS, TN – The Memphis Urban League is excited to announce a free keyboarding skills training sessions designed to provide individuals with essential job skills and ensure their continued...
A Legacy of Leadership: Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future
As we reflect on the rich history of our community and its leaders, it's essential to remember those who have forged paths for others to follow. This week, we spotlight some incredible pioneers whose courage and commitment to justice have left us a legacy of...