About the Memphis Urban League

The Memphis Urban League mission is to assist youth, senior citizens, and those in underserved communities to expand economic opportunities and secure equality, power, and civil rights.

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Media Contact:

Angelika Woods

Director of Communications & Outreach

Memphis Urban League

Phone: (901) 272-2491

Email: awoods@memul.org

About the Memphis Urban League

The Memphis Urban League mission is to assist youth, senior citizens, and those in underserved communities to expand economic opportunities and secure equality, power, and civil rights.

###

Media Contact:

Angelika Woods

Director of Communications & Outreach

Memphis Urban League

Phone: (901) 272-2491

Email: awoods@memul.org

About the Memphis Urban League

The Memphis Urban League mission is to assist youth, senior citizens, and those in underserved communities to expand economic opportunities and secure equality, power, and civil rights.

###

Media Contact:

Angelika Woods

Director of Communications & Outreach

Memphis Urban League

Phone: (901) 272-2491

Email: awoods@memul.org

About the Memphis Urban League

The Memphis Urban League mission is to assist youth, senior citizens and those in underserved communities to expand economic opportunities and secure equality, power, and civil rights.

###

Media Contact:

Angelika Woods

Director of Communications & Outreach

Memphis Urban League

Phone: (901) 272-2491

Email: awoods@memul.org

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Memphis Urban League is proud to announce its newly appointed board members and leadership roles for 2025, marking a significant step in its mission to empower communities and transform lives.

Joining the Board of Directors are:
• John Webb, president of Tri-South Cigna Care
• Cathryn Stout, Ph.D., communications and strategic partnerships director at the
Tennessee Department of Health
• Dr. Andre Johnson, Ph.D., professor at the University of Memphis

“I am thrilled to welcome such an accomplished and dynamic group of leaders to our Board of Directors,” said Gale Jones Carson, president and CEO of the Memphis Urban League.”Their collective expertise and passion for service will undoubtedly strengthen our ability to empower communities and drive meaningful change.”

These distinguished individuals bring substantial experience and expertise to guide the Memphis Urban League as it continues to advocate for economic self-reliance, equity, and social justice for
African Americans and other underserved populations.

In 2025, Dr. Sidney Malone will continue as board chair, while Judge Ernestine Hunt Dorse will remain as vice chair. Cynthia Bradford has been appointed secretary, and Makita Surgeon will serve as treasurer.

“I am honored to continue serving as board chair for the Memphis Urban League in 2025,” said Dr. Sidney Malone. “Working alongside such a talented and dedicated leadership team is both inspiring and rewarding. Together, we remain steadfast in our commitment to fostering partnerships and advocating for systemic change that will uplift our community. I look forward
to building on our successes and driving impactful initiatives that make a lasting difference in the lives of those we serve.”

The Memphis Urban League remains committed to fostering meaningful partnerships and advocating for systemic change in the Memphis community. With this dynamic leadership team, the organization is poised to deepen its impact and broaden its reach in 2025 and beyond.
For more information about the Memphis Urban League, its programs, and its leadership, please visit www.memul.org.  

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Media Contact:

Angelika Woods
Director of Communications & Outreach
Memphis Urban League
Phone: (901) 272-2491
awoods@memul.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

12/23/2024

Memphis Urban League Launches Blueprint to Opportunity Apprenticeship Readiness Program

MEMPHIS, TN — The Memphis Urban League is excited to announce the launch of “Blueprint to Opportunity,” a transformative apprenticeship readiness initiative in partnership with Mid-South Construction Careers. Applications are now open for the inaugural class starting on January 6, 2025.

This program is designed to prepare individuals for high-demand careers in the construction trades, offering valuable skills, career pathways, and financial empowerment along the way.

No prior experience is required, making this program accessible to anyone eager to build a future in the construction industry. The goal of this program is to expand access to quality Apprenticeship Readiness Programs (ARPs) in the construction sector and support vital retention initiatives aimed at reducing barriers for historically underrepresented individuals in the building trades.

“We’re excited to offer this unique opportunity to individuals in the Mid-South, especially those who are underrepresented in this industry, specifically women and people of color,” said Wayne Gillard, director of workforce and economic development initiatives at the Memphis Urban League. “Blueprint to Opportunity is more than just a training program—it’s a pathway to a brighter future with competitive wages, job stability, and long-term growth in the construction trades.”

Key Benefits Include:

• Earn as You Learn: Participants will receive a weekly stipend throughout the program.

• Career Advancement: Graduates will gain direct career assistance with one of the program’s affiliated trades, offering competitive starting wages, health insurance, and retirement benefits.

Affiliated Trades Include:

• Electricians

• Ironworkers/Welding

• HVAC/Service Technicians

• Plumbers

• Laborers

• Carpenters

“We are proud to collaborate with the Memphis Urban League and several local union trade schools to provide Memphians with hands-on training from industry professionals,” said Matthew Brown, director of Midsouth Construction Careers. “Together, we are working to build the people who will build tomorrow.”

For more information or to apply, visit memul.org/blueprint-to-opp or email Wayne Gillard w.gillard@memul.org.

About the Memphis Urban League

The Memphis Urban League is a nonprofit organization dedicated to securing resources and implementing programs aimed at reducing social and economic barriers. Its mission focuses on empowering African Americans and underserved communities by expanding economic opportunities and achieving parity, power, and civil rights.

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Media Contact:

Angelika Woods
Director of Communications & Outreach
Memphis Urban League
Phone: (901) 272-2491
awoods@memul.org

In the spirit of Women’s History Month, it’s crucial to spotlight the trailblazing journey of Vice President Kamala Harris, whose tenure in office has been marked by historic milestones and impactful leadership. Despite facing criticism, her unwavering commitment to advancing opportunity, protecting freedoms, and supporting the Black community underscores the importance of rallying support for her continued efforts.

A Legacy of Firsts

Vice President Kamala Harris has shattered glass ceilings, becoming the first woman, the first Black American, and the first South Asian American to hold the vice presidency. Her election represents a monumental step forward in the ongoing fight for representation and equality in the highest echelons of American politics. Harris’s journey, inspired by her parents’ active involvement in the civil rights movement, reflects her lifelong dedication to building coalitions that champion the rights and freedoms of all people.

Historic Advocacy for Reproductive Rights

In a groundbreaking move, Vice President Harris became the first sitting vice president to visit an abortion clinic, underscoring her role as the administration’s most vocal defender of abortion rights. This visit, part of a nationwide tour to advocate for reproductive freedoms, highlights her proactive stance in safeguarding access to abortion services amid growing restrictions in conservative states. Her actions offer a vivid illustration of the shifting dynamics around abortion rights, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to this critical issue.

Productivity Amidst Criticism

Despite facing scrutiny and underwhelming approval ratings, Vice President Harris has demonstrated significant productivity and leadership. She has spearheaded efforts on contentious issues such as reproductive rights, infrastructure investment, and climate change, showcasing her ability to navigate complex challenges and effect change. Her historic tie-breaking votes in the Senate further exemplify her pivotal role in advancing the administration’s legislative agenda. Harris’s work, particularly in championing the CHIPS and Science Act to bolster domestic semiconductor production, underscores her commitment to strengthening the U.S. economy and national security.

The Need for Support from the Black Community

The narrative surrounding Vice President Harris’s impact and achievements often remains underrepresented in traditional media. It’s imperative for the Black community and organizations like the National Urban League to amplify her accomplishments and the significance of her leadership. By fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of her contributions, we can ensure that her groundbreaking work receives the recognition it deserves and continues to inspire future generations.

Connection to the National Urban League

Vice President Harris has a career-long dedication to civil rights, social justice, and economic empowerment and this aligns closely with the mission of the National Urban League. Her efforts to build strong coalitions and fight for the rights of marginalized communities resonate with the League’s objectives, suggesting a natural partnership in advancing shared goals.

Vice President Kamala Harris’s historic journey and productive tenure exemplify her commitment to serving the nation and advocating for underrepresented communities. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, let’s recognize her achievements and rally support to ensure her groundbreaking work continues to pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.