Category Archives: Society

The Latest news about what is effecting Society in North America, These PR articles, bring the newest technologies, initiatives and helpful tools to those who need them.

Society: Christianity

Churchill Stateside Group Announces Closing of Benjamin O. Davis Veterans Village in Detroit, Michigan

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CSG Provides a Forward Permanent Loan Commitment to The Benjamin O. Davis Veterans Village Community which will Provide Affordable Housing to Veterans and Disabled Individuals

CLEARWATER, Fla., Nov. 9, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Churchill Stateside Group, LLC (CSG), a real estate and renewable energy financial services company, is pleased to announce the closing and groundbreaking of Benjamin O. Davis Veterans Village, a new affordable housing construction development in Detroit, Michigan. Benjamin O. Davis will provide essential affordable housing and supportive services for both homeless veterans and residents with disabilities. Churchill provided an unfunded forward permanent loan commitment totaling $3,145,000, via Churchill’s Forward Permanent Loan program. Benjamin O. Davis Veterans Village will provide 50 one-bedroom apartments. Half of these units will be dedicated to permanent supportive housing for individuals experiencing chronic homelessness, with a specific emphasis on assisting veterans. The remaining 25 units will be available for residents with disabilities. To ensure accessibility for all, project-based vouchers from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority and the Detroit Housing Commission will guarantee that each resident pays no more than 30% of their monthly income towards rent.

Benjamin O. Davis Veterans Village is the outcome of a partnership between leaders in affordable housing, behavioral health, and veteran healthcare. Residents will have access to an array of resources, including therapeutic services, nursing services, substance abuse assistance, adult case management, hospital liaison services, mental health services, and employment services. In 2021, approximately 1,120 individuals in the Detroit Continuum of Care were identified as part of the chronically homeless population. This classification applies to individuals who have received a long-term disabling diagnosis and have experienced homelessness four or more times within the past three years, or have been continuously homeless for a year due to a disabling condition.

Dan Duda, Senior Vice President and National Director of Originations and Acquisitions for CSG, said, “Churchill Mortgage Investment is excited to provide an unfunded forward commitment of a $3,145,000 permanent loan on Benjamin O. Davis Veteran Village. The vision of RAD Conversion Specialists LLC, Communities of Hope, and Central City Health, to help end veteran homelessness, is outstanding and much needed in the community. We are very thankful to be a financing partner and looking forward to successful construction of the community.”

The development will boast an array of fantastic unit amenities, such as walk-in closets, dishwashers, central air conditioning, intercoms, and self-cleaning ovens. Building amenities will include an interior camera system, administrative office, two 100-square-foot supportive service offices, an elevator, five units accessible to individuals with physical disabilities, a spacious 1,300 square foot accessible community room, a dining room, a kitchen, a resident lounge, a barber/beauty shop, an exercise room, and both an indoor bike rack and an outdoor patio. Construction for Benjamin O. Davis Veterans Village is already underway, with lease-up anticipated to occur by August 2025.

Keith Gloeckl, Chief Executive Officer of CSG, added, “The Benjamin O. Davis multifamily affordable housing complex is a much-needed facility serving veterans and homeless in the Detroit area. Churchill and our capital partners are pleased to be able to provide financing for this critical need of housing for veterans with long-term health needs. This project honors Benjamin O. Davis JR., who was commander of the World War II Tuskegee Airman and the first African American to become a general in the US Air Force.”

For more information about CSG’s multifamily finance programs and services, please contact Dan Duda, SVP and National Director of Originations and Acquisitions, at (727) 415-9556 or via email at [email protected].

About Churchill Stateside Group
Churchill Stateside Group and its wholly owned affiliates (CSG) serve the affordable housing and commercial renewable energy industries. CSG sponsors tax credit equity investment funds for institutional investors and provides a variety of construction, permanent, and bond financing solutions. With over $6 Billion of assets under management, CSG has long-standing and successful investment relationships with numerous corporate investors. The company’s investor and developer clients benefit from our experienced staff, prominent and proactive senior leadership, and attractive debt and equity platforms. The company, through its subsidiary Churchill Mortgage Investment LLC (CMI), is an approved USDA Rural Development and HUD/FHA MAP and LEAN lender and Ginnie Mae Issuer, seller and servicer.

For more information, please visit http://www.CSGfirst.com.

Media Contact
Carter Daignault, Churchill Stateside Group, 7272330614, [email protected], CSGfirst.com

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SOURCE Churchill Stateside Group



Society: Christianity

The Honor Foundation to Pay Tribute to Special Operations Forces at Salute to SOF Gala in Washington D.C.

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“This event will be one of our most memorable of the year. Here, in our Nation’s Capital, we draw together our greatest supporters, patrons, partners, and of course, the veterans we serve to salute to the great sacrifices our service men and women have made while protecting our freedom. Their brave pursuits deserve our deepest gratitude, as well as our service in return. Events like Salute to SOF allow us to better serve our veterans—increasing our reach, growing our programs, and ultimately improving the post-service lives of these men and women and their families,” said THF CEO Matt Stevens of the event.

The event comes at a time when gaps in the traditional transition programs offered to SOF veterans transitioning out of the military are becoming more evident. Many post-9/11 Special Operators are nearing retirement age, and there is a pressing need to better ensure that they have fulfilling lives after their military careers. The funds raised at Salute to SOF will help THF reach even more of these veterans with their proprietary program.

Full details and tickets to the event can be found here: https://www.classy.org/event/salute-to-sof-gala-or-washington-dc-or-2023/e456498

For more information about The Honor Foundation, visit https://www.honor.org.

ABOUT THE HONOR FOUNDATION

The Honor Foundation (THF) is a career transition program for U.S. Special Operations Forces that effectively translates their elite military service to the private sector and helps create the next generation of corporate and community leaders. It achieves this through a three-month program which provides tailored executive education, one-on-one coaching, and access to a nationwide professional network. This program was built by the desire to serve others with honor for life, so that their next mission is always clear and continues to impact the world. Every step is dedicated to preparing these outstanding men and women to continue to realize their maximum potential during and after their service career. The Honor Foundation has 2,200+ graduates to date and has campuses in San Diego, CA; Virginia Beach, VA; Camp Lejeune, NC; Fort Liberty, NC; Eglin, FL; Tampa, FL; JBLM, WA; Fort Campbell, TN and a virtual program (THFv). The Navy SEAL Foundation is a Founding Partner of The Honor Foundation.

About Surefox North America

Surefox North America is a security consulting firm founded in 2016 by combat veterans who saw an industry-wide need for the planning, skills, and support veterans could provide. Our mission is to provide security solutions tailored to individual client needs with discretion, integrity, and professionalism. Our diverse team of professionals has built an inclusive community and culture that differentiates us from our competitors and has directly established Surefox’s personnel retention rate as one of the highest in the security industry. Because of our tenured and skilled team, our clients receive the highest level of professionalism and attention they need to protect their most vulnerable assets.

Media Contact

Emily Burkle, The Honor Foundation, 1 7602131300, [email protected], https://www.honor.org

SOURCE The Honor Foundation

Society: Disabled Issues / Disabilities

Partum Health Launches in Houston to Expand Its Interdisciplinary Pregnancy and Postpartum Care Model

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In Texas, the need is great. A report, updated in October 2023 by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, found that 90% of the state’s pregnancy-related deaths are preventable, with mental disorders listed as the second leading cause of pregnancy-related death. The Commission’s number one recommendation for achieving better outcomes is improving care coordination and access to comprehensive health services.

“Partum was created to help fill the critical gap in support for maternal health and well-being, particularly during the vulnerable postpartum period,” said Meghan Doyle, co-founder and CEO of Partum Health. “We selected Texas as our second launch market because we see tremendous opportunity to address patient and provider needs across the state. Our goal is to improve outcomes for patients by partnering with OBs and midwives to provide complementary, interdisciplinary care to their patients.”

Partum’s offerings are focused on addressing and preventing the most common complications of pregnancy, including perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, pelvic floor dysfunction, and avoidable C-sections. Care plans are tailored to the needs of each family, and services are offered both virtually and in-person. The company has transparent pricing and no membership fees and it works with major health plans, including BCBS, United, CIGNA, and Aetna, to ensure that many of its services are covered by insurance.

Partum plans to enter additional markets within Texas in 2024. The company’s leaders recognize the financial barriers to finding quality health and mental health care, and as the company expands, they are committed to increasing the number of in-network insurance providers that cover its services.

For more information about Partum Health, please visit www.partumhealth.com.

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About Partum Health

Partum Health believes all families deserve comprehensive, whole-person care that supports their mental, physical and emotional health needs throughout the pregnancy and postpartum experience. Through digital care coordination and patient education as well as interdisciplinary services offered virtually and in person by expert care providers, Partum Health makes this a reality for families. Partum Health aims to elevate the current standard of maternal care in the U.S., ensuring that all birthing people and their families have the support they need for healthy and more joyful parenting. For more information about Partum Health, please visit www.partumhealth.com or follow Partum Health on Instagram, Facebook, X and LinkedIn.

Media Contact

Jen Singerman, Partum Health, 1 877-381-5221, [email protected], partumhealth.com

SOURCE Partum Health



Society: Disabled Issues / Disabilities

Miami Entrepreneur Frances Rios Launches Anthology Book Showcasing Latina Business Leaders’ Rise to Excellence; Reframing Perspectives presents 21 Puerto Rican authors

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Beyond her business accolades, Rios champions empowerment through the Latina Next Foundation. Her mission is crystal clear: fortifying professional Hispanic women with tools for a secure financial future, alleviating fears of a destitute retirement.

The anthology showcases the tenacity and drive of Latina professionals. It encompasses compelling stories from General Managers of Fortune 500 giants to heartening narratives from local business leaders, offering readers a dose of inspiration, hope and strategies for business and career success.

This book launch transcends a mere debut; it’s a festival of Latina excellence, a guiding light for aspiring leaders, and a testament to the boundless possibilities when perspectives shift.

Contributing authors include:

  •     Melissa Rivera-Roena – Country Manager, ManpowerGroup, Inc.
  •     María Milagros Soto Matos – Regional VP for Walmart Puerto Rico
  •     Doris Barroso Vicéns – Managing Partner, RSM Puerto Rico
  •     Iliette Frontera – Vice President of Operations Boston Scientific
  •     Milagros Cabrera – Founder and CEO, The Retail Group
  •     Agnes B. Suárez Méndez – President & CEO of Agnes B. Suarez Consulting LLC
  •     Flavia D. Tejada – President of Mentor Technical Group
  •     Brenda Abad Vega – General Manager of Pepe Abad
  •     Lizette C. Vélez-Rivé – Founding Member at Saldaña, Carvajal & Vélez-Rivé, P.S.C.
  •     Ilia M. Ríos Reyes – President and Managing Partner at V Architecture
  •     Lisette Villavicencio – President at Villavicencio & Associates Construction
  •     Maricelis Rivera-Santos – President of Access All Services
  •     Josely Vega Maldonado – President and CEO of Universal Insurance Group
  •     Alexandra Caraballo Vega – General Manager of Lopito, Ileana & Howie
  •     Clarivette Diaz Sosa – General Manager of Puerto Rico Terminals
  •     Frances T. Berríos Meléndez – President of the College of Electrical Experts of Puerto Rico
  •     Gladys T. Nieves Vázquez – President of EDP University Puerto Rico
  •     Camalis Flores Polanco. – Partner, SVP, Business Development RiskOne Solutions
  •     Debbie Alonso Rodriguez – General Manager, Mayagüez Resort & Casino
  •     Olga I. Ramos Carrasquillo – President of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Puerto Rico
  •     María del C. Betancourt Vázquez – Owner and Principal Consultant for DNV Consulting, LLC.

Rios passionately conveyed the uniqueness of the anthology, noting the absence of such a focus on Puerto Rican businesswomen. For some, this book was the realization of a cherished dream. “This book is their legacy, an avenue to inspire and guide the next generation of women leaders,” she mentioned.

She accentuated the transformative essence of the stories. “To ascend in one’s profession or entrepreneurial journey, comprehending the ethos of these accomplished leaders is invaluable,” she stated. “It’s about embracing their ethos, their choices, and their support systems.”
Rios extends an invitation to readers: “Delve into these narratives, journey with these women, and let their stories shape your own.”

“Reframing Perspectives: Latina Leaders Who Have Taken Their Stories to the Next Level” is available on Amazon.

About the Book:
“Reframing Perspectives: Latina Leaders Who Have Taken Their Stories to the Next Level” is an enthralling anthology, spotlighting the journeys of 21 dynamic Puerto Rican women who steered their destinies with resilience and determination. The book bridges the experiences of Fortune 500 executives and innovative business owners, encapsulating tales of grit, triumph, and unwavering willpower. It embodies the essence of self-discovery and the transformative power of reshaping one’s narrative.

Media Contact
Marie Lazzara, JJR Marketing, 630-400-3361, [email protected], https://jjrmarketing.com/

SOURCE Frances Rios

Society: Social Services

PAHRC and NLIHC Release Report on Natural Hazards and Federally Assisted Housing

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Report reveals the need to protect federally assisted housing against the growing threat of natural hazards through better planning and stronger investments in resilience

WASHINGTON, Nov. 8, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — The Public and Affordable Housing Research Corporation (PAHRC) and the National Low Income Housing Coalition (NLIHC) released today a new report, Natural Hazards and Federally Assisted Housing. The report analyzes the risks posed by natural hazards to federally assisted housing and its residents using the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) National Risk Index (NRI). Among other findings, the report reveals that nearly a quarter of federally assisted homes are in census tracts with the greatest risk of negative impacts from natural hazards, and that heat waves are the most prevalent natural hazard threatening residents of federally assisted homes.

“The disproportionate exposure of federally assisted homes to heat risk raises important questions about both the siting and quality of these homes, as well as policies regarding utility allowances in federal housing programs,” said NLIHC President and CEO Diane Yentel. “Greater investments must be made to improve heat resilience in neighborhoods, such as by improving tree canopy coverage in communities where federally assisted homes already exist and siting new assisted housing in neighborhoods with less exposure to extreme heat. Congress must also pass the bipartisan Reforming Disaster Recovery Act, which includes key improvements to federal recovery policy that would benefit federally assisted homes.”

Accounting for approximately 10% of the nation’s rental housing, federally assisted housing is a limited but critical resource for the lowest-income renters, who disproportionately struggle with housing costs. Increasingly frequent and severe weather events pose a growing threat to federally assisted housing and its residents, who are often the least prepared to respond to and recover from disasters.

“Most federally assisted homes are in census tracts at high risk of losses for at least one of the 18 natural hazards we studied,” says PAHRC’s Manager of Research and Industry Intelligence Kelly McElwain. “Affordable housing organizations need resources to improve the resilience and energy efficiency of their properties as the threat of severe weather grows so that they can provide stability for families for generations to come.”

By analyzing natural hazard risks using FEMA’s NRI and data from the National Housing Preservation Database, the report finds that 24% of federally assisted homes are in census tracts with the greatest risk of negative impacts from natural hazards nationwide. In eight states, more than half of federally assisted homes are in census tracts with the greatest risk of negative impacts.

The report reveals important geographic differences in vulnerability. For example, federally assisted homes in rural areas are more vulnerable to the negative impacts of natural hazards than homes in urban areas: 30% of federally assisted rental homes in rural areas are in census tracts with the greatest risk for negative impacts, compared to 23% of federally assisted rental homes in urban areas.

Heat waves are the most prevalent hazard threatening residents of federally assisted homes, according to the report. Twenty-eight percent of federally assisted rental homes are in census tracts with the greatest risk of losses from extreme heat. Meanwhile, 25% of federally assisted rental homes are in census tracts with the greatest risk of losses from tornadoes, and 23% are in census tracts with the greatest risk of losses from riverine flooding.

The report makes several recommendations about how to better protect federally assisted housing from the impacts of natural hazards. In general, greater resources for mitigation and better recovery planning are needed at all levels of government. At the federal level, Congress should pass the bipartisan Reforming Disaster Recovery Act, which would permanently authorize the Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) program and thereby expedite the allocation of federal recovery funds while also prioritizing one-for-one repair or replacement of federally assisted housing impacted by disasters.

Given the risks posed by extreme heat, there is also a need to improve energy efficiency and air conditioning in older federally assisted homes, while expanding utility allowance policies in federal housing programs to cover air conditioning for all residents.

Read the report at: https://preservationdatabase.org/reports/natural-hazards-and-federally-assisted-housing

About the Public and Affordable Housing Research Corporation

The Public and Affordable Housing Research Corporation (PAHRC) is a non-profit research center dedicated to conducting research that promotes the national conversation about the importance of affordable housing. PAHRC spotlights the impact, outcomes, and value affordable housing brings to the families it serves and to the communities it supports, delivering data and tools that assist researchers, practitioners, and advocates to build an evidence-based case for why affordable housing matters. For more information about PAHRC, please visit www.pahrc.org.

About the National Low Income Housing Coalition

The National Low Income Housing Coalition is dedicated to achieving racially and socially equitable public policy that ensures people with the lowest incomes have quality homes that are accessible and affordable in the communities of their choice. NLIHC educates, organizes, and advocates to ensure decent, affordable housing for everyone. For more information about NLIHC, please visit www.nlihc.org.

Media Contact

Courtney Rice, Public and Affordable Housing Research Corporation (PAHRC), 1 203-649-6553, [email protected], www.pahrc.org 

Jen Butler, National Low Income Housing Coalition (NLIHC), 1 202-662-1530 x239, [email protected], www.nlihc.org 

SOURCE Public and Affordable Housing Research Corporation (PAHRC)

Society: Social Services

America Mentors Collaborates with Fidelity Investments to Help Underserved Students Persist to Graduation Through Mentoring

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America Mentors, powered by MentorcliQ’s award-winning mentoring software, has transformed the lives of over 5,000 first-generation, Pell Grant-eligible college students to date. America Mentors equips students with the mentoring and support they need to navigate the complexities of higher education and persist to graduation.

“Investing in education is a cornerstone of our social impact initiatives,” said Dwayne Logan, VP Social Impact at Fidelity. “We are honored to partner with America Mentors, an organization that complements our dedication to creating equal opportunities for every student to thrive in their academic journey and beyond.”

The partnership with Fidelity Investments will further America Mentors’ reach, enabling the organization to support more students and contribute to building a future where every student has the opportunity to attain higher education.

“We are profoundly grateful to Fidelity Investments for their collaboration and belief in our mission,” said Kendele Hickombottom, Director of Corporate Social Responsibility at MentorcliQ. “This partnership amplifies our efforts to bridge the educational gap and empower first-generation, Pell Grant-eligible college students to achieve their academic and career aspirations.”

To learn more about America Mentors visit www.americamentors.org.

The application window for the Fidelity Scholars Program is open through January 11, 2024. Learn about student eligibility and apply here.

About America Mentors

America Mentors is a non-profit organization that helps first-generation, Pell Grant-eligible college students successfully persist to college graduation. America Mentors is offered at no cost to colleges, universities and community organizations and is powered by MentorcliQ’s award-winning mentoring software. Learn more about America Mentors at www.americamentors.org.

About Fidelity Investments

Fidelity’s mission is to strengthen the financial well-being of our customers and deliver better outcomes for the clients and businesses we serve. With assets under administration of $11.7 trillion, including discretionary assets of $4.5 trillion as of June 30, 2023, we focus on meeting the unique needs of a diverse set of customers. Privately held for over 75 years, Fidelity employs over 70,000 associates who are focused on the long-term success of our customers. For more information about Fidelity Investments, visithttps://www.fidelity.com/about-fidelity/our-company.

Media Contact

Kendele Hickombottom, America Mentors, 1 708-606-9399, [email protected], www.americamentors.org

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SOURCE America Mentors

Society: Christianity

WJA Ruby Gala Shines Bright, M arking 40 Years of Empowering Women in the Jewelry and Watch Industries

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“The most beautiful part of the evening was seeing WJA members, leaders, founders, and friends celebrating old friendships and forging new ones. When we come together as an industry, we do great things, we create opportunities, and we continue to build our legacy. Thank you all for your support and your presence at our 40th Anniversary Gala. The work we do raising funds for the association and foundation nonprofits is powerful, meaningful, and the key to a brighter future. As we look to 2024, your support remains pivotal to reach more members. Please join us as a member, corporate member, or angel sponsor!” says Susan Chandler, WJA President and Chief Merchandising Officer for Citizen Watch America.

The elevated cocktail reception, featuring gourmet delights presented by Major Food Group, left guests delighted and satisfied. Acclaimed performers, including harpist Lexie Lowell by Élan Artists, a percussionist, duo aerialists by Astarte Creative, and the urban rhythm musicians Drumadics by Élan Artists, provided an unforgettable experience. Astarte Creative dazzled with a glamorous dance act performed to a custom montage of diamond and jewelry-themed tracks— a spellbinding delight with hundreds of crystals and giant burlesque feather fans. Topping off the evening, Lorenzo Laroc entranced all with an electrifying performance on his signature five-string plexiglass electronic violin, playing an array of attractive genres for guests throughout the night. During the evening, current international board members and past presidents were acknowledged for their volunteer work and photographed onstage, while The Pool emanated a sea of dazzling ruby red, from the gowns and jewels of guests in attendance. John Green, President & CEO of Lux Bond & Green, emceed the night with a contagious enthusiasm.

The highlight of the night was the thrilling auction led by Caroline Ervin via Lydia Fenet Agency, showcasing a luxurious five-star corporate retreat package generously provided by Inspirato for Good. The auction raised funds to support the Women’s Jewelry Association International non-profit and its Foundation arm, ensuring women continue to thrive in the industry for generations to come. In addition to the luxurious corporate retreat package provided by Inspirato for Good, a new second priceless experience was unveiled. Generously provided by Balmain, this extraordinary package included a VIP invitation for two to Balmain Paris Fashion Week show (choice of Fall 2024 or Spring 2025), attendance at Balmain’s exclusive party and cocktail reception, a private dinner designed for Balmain’s top clients, and an exclusive opportunity to tour Balmain’s showroom and place a pre-order on the collection. The second auction item also offered a private shopping experience at Balmain’s Madison Ave. flagship store, or a store in the winner’s city. Balmain would close the store for the winner and up to 10 friends to shop for a full look, complete with champagne and styling assistance from a senior sales associate. Additionally, a percentage of sales goes towards a donation.

“We are very grateful to all that came out to celebrate this significant milestone. The energy and the spirit of generosity demonstrated by leaders in our industry further illuminates they believe in all that the WJA does to provide meaningful networking, professional development, and financial support to women in our industry. ‘Belief’ is a powerful motivator, and it was evident in the funds raised for the foundation that the industry truly believes in all that we do,” says Gabrielle Grazi, President of the WJA Foundation and VP, Head Retail Strategy and Partnerships, Natural Diamond Council.

Monica Elias, CEO and Executive Producer of Elias World Media, curated the evening as WJA Gala Event Chair, which celebrated the beauty, creativity, and passion of the jewelry and watch industries. Susan Chandler was Sponsorship Chair of the WJA Ruby Gala, with both Monica and Susan being supported by WJA committee members: Aida Alvarez, Kendra Bridelle, Gabrielle Grazi, and Ivette Nersesyan-Stephanopoulos, as well as by Anna Samsonova, Jen Cullen Williams, Rachel Jurisz, and Jacqueline Cassaway. The gala brought together prominent names in jewelry, fashion, entertainment, and philanthropy, including Kimberly and Steven Rockefeller, Kayla Rockefeller, Angel Pai, Julia Haart, Lucy Horowitz, Isabelle Bscher, and Janna Bullock. Industry VIPs included: Jack Gabriel, David Kellie, Matthijs Braakman, Howard Hauben, Anne Russell, Caryl Capeci, Adam Black, Esther and Ruth Fortunoff, Annie Doresca, Nancy Orem Lyman, Grant Mobley, Rob Bates, Jill Newman, and Adrianne Sanogo. Acclaimed jewelry designers were in attendance, including: Stephanie Gottlieb, Monica Rich Kosann, Lorraine West, Malyia McNaughton, Joan Hornig, Lorraine Schwartz, Ofira Sandberg, Olivia Landau, and Kyle Simon, Maria Valim, and Steven Lagos.

“The evening was magical and a testament of what can be achieved when thought leaders and industries come together to support a good cause. We were determined to create an evening that was big, bold, and unique. Taking a chance, we incorporated many new elements not seen before, like bespoke dance and musical performances, an auction featuring luxury packages generously donated by famed brands, and the invitation of notable names in philanthropy, fashion, and entertainment,” says Monica Elias. “Yielding publicity leading up to the event from high-profile outlets, this level of exposure is good for the entire industry, putting everyone on the map for the fundraising of important causes. The excitement and energy that filled the room was lifting. Guests were thrilled to be a part of the evening and motivated to give back. We honored the past and present, and toasted to the future. We are grateful for the support of the industry and everyone who helped make this night a big success.”

The Women’s Jewelry Association would like to extend heartfelt thanks to its gala sponsors: De Beers, Jewelers Mutual, Citizen Watch America, GIA, Elias World Media, JCK, Krainz Creations, Platinum Guild International, Stuller, The Centurion Jewelry Show, BOSS Logics, Chrysmela, Goldstar, Heritage Auctions, Instore, Lux, Bond & Green, Marco Bicego, Richline Group, Sheetal, Uni-Design, V&A Group, and Casadevall Group.

The WJA 40th Anniversary Gala not only celebrated the organization’s achievements but also raised critical funds to support women in the jewelry and watch industries. The gala was a testament to the enduring impact of WJA in advancing and empowering women professionals in the field.

To further donate to the WJA cause, donations will be collected on their site at https://wedoauctions.com/d/donate.php?slug=wja. For more information about WJA, or to join, visit https://www.womensjewelryassociation.com/ or email [email protected]. For inquiries regarding this press release, contact Pietra Communications by calling 212-913-9761 or email [email protected].

About the Women’s Jewelry Association:
The Women’s Jewelry Association (WJA) is a trailblazing organization dedicated to empowering and advancing women within the jewelry and watch industries. In 1983, WJA was founded on the belief that women could create lasting change by connecting, mentoring, and recognizing one another’s accomplishments. Today, WJA stands as a global network of professionals spanning diverse roles, from designers and manufacturers to retailers and media representatives. The organization’s mission is to facilitate professional growth through networking, education, leadership development, and a wide range of member services. Through its numerous chapters across the U.S. and around the world, WJA offers a spectrum of benefits, including networking events, educational programs, mentoring initiatives, scholarships, and grants.

About the Women’s Jewelry Association Foundation:
The WJA Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the Women’s Jewelry Association (WJA), dedicated to furthering the organization’s mission of providing women in the jewelry and watch industries with educational and business opportunities to help them achieve their full career potential. The Foundation operates as a 501(c)(3) corporation, actively engaging individuals and corporations to contribute and make meaningful impact through the distribution of scholarships and grants.

Media Contact

Olga Gonzalez, Women’s Jewelry Association, 212-913-9761, [email protected], https://www.womensjewelryassociation.com/ 

SOURCE Women’s Jewelry Association

Society: Christianity

Greenberg Traurig’s Natalie Gallego Appointed to HNBA’S Young Lawyer Division Board

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Natalie Gallego, an attorney in global law firm Greenberg Traurig’s Corporate Practice in Boston, was appointed to the Young Lawyer Division Board of the Hispanic National Bar Association (HNBA) through September 2024.

BOSTON, Nov. 7, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Natalie Gallego, an attorney in global law firm Greenberg Traurig‘s Corporate Practice in Boston, was appointed to the Young Lawyer Division Board of the Hispanic National Bar Association (HNBA) through September 2024.

“I am excited to serve alongside young Hispanic attorneys from across the country and focus on developing HNBA membership,” Gallego, who serves as the board’s co-chair of membership, said.

The Young Lawyer Division’s mission is to further the HNBA’s goals of serving the Hispanic community and legal profession, to represent and advocate for young Hispanic lawyers in the HNBA, and to create a forum for young Hispanic lawyers to discuss their views and the legal culture in which they practice, according to the organization.

Gallego focuses her practice primarily on mergers & acquisitions, emerging company and venture capital matters, debt and equity financings, commercial transactions, and general corporate governance matters. She has particular experience representing clients acquiring and financing renewable energy projects, as well as clients in the technology, life sciences, entertainment, transportation, and manufacturing industries.

About Greenberg Traurig’s Boston Office: Established in 1999, Greenberg Traurig’s Boston office is home to more than 85 attorneys practicing in the areas of banking and finance, corporate, emerging technology, energy, environmental, gaming, governmental affairs, intellectual property, labor and employment, life sciences and medical technology, litigation, public finance, real estate, restructuring and bankruptcy, tax, and white collar defense and investigations. An important contributor to the firm’s international platform, the Boston office includes a team of nationally recognized attorneys with both public and private sector experience. The team offers clients the value of decades of helping clients in complex legal matters and hands-on knowledge of the local business community, supported by the firm’s vast network of global resources.

About Greenberg Traurig’s Diversity Initiative: From its inception, Greenberg Traurig has been committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. Greenberg Traurig is a uniquely empowering and diverse firm built on a foundation of fairness, equality, and authenticity. Through its Social, Racial, and Economic Justice Action Plan, the firm has committed $5 million over five years to help combat systemic racism and support impoverished communities. In addition, the firm’s efforts have been recognized through its Mansfield Rule 6.0 Certification Plus, administered by The Diversity Lab, and by local, national, and global publications and organizations including Chambers and Partners.
Web: https://www.gtlaw.com/en/general/our-firm/diversity Twitter: @GT_Drives.

About Greenberg Traurig: Greenberg Traurig, LLP has more than 2650 attorneys in 47 locations in the United States, Europe and the Middle East, Latin America, and Asia. The firm is a 2022 BTI “Highly Recommended Law Firm” for superior client service and is consistently among the top firms on the Am Law Global 100 and NLJ 500. Greenberg Traurig is Mansfield Rule 6.0 Certified Plus by The Diversity Lab. The firm is recognized for powering its U.S. offices with 100% renewable energy as certified by the Center for Resource Solutions Green-e® Energy program and is a member of the U.S. EPA’s Green Power Partnership Program. The firm is known for its philanthropic giving, innovation, diversity, and pro bono. Web: http://www.gtlaw.com.

Media Contact
Lisa Murray, Greenberg Traurig, 978.750.0333, [email protected], gtlaw.com

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SOURCE Greenberg Traurig



Society: Social Services

Illustrative Mathematics and Kiddom Form Curriculum Partnership

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“We are thrilled to name Kiddom as an IM Certified Premium Partner for the next edition of IM’s curriculum,” said Bill McCallum, CEO and cofounder of Illustrative Mathematics.”Kiddom is committed to supporting IM’s problem-based instructional model and the technology itself is designed to enhance mathematical discourse. We look forward to working with them to develop even more innovative features that facilitate lively interaction between students and teachers.”

For Kiddom, the partnership with IM is mission-aligned. “A lack of access to high-quality curriculum significantly undermines student equity, increasing disparities in educational outcomes,” said Ahsan Rizvi, CEO at Kiddom. “We are proud to offer IM 360 on the powerful Kiddom platform to ensure these high-quality materials are fully accessible in classrooms across the entire country.”

Teachers using IM 360 on the Kiddom platform will be able to leverage time-saving lesson planning and instructional delivery tools, as well as actionable student performance reporting. School and district leaders will also gain a dedicated set of tools and views to implement IM 360 with integrity at scale. “Administrators and teacher leaders work so hard to select the right materials, but the hard work truly starts after the selection process,” noted Abbas Manjee, Kiddom’s cofounder and chief academic officer.

Districts will also have the ability to tailor the curricula to meet the needs of their local communities. “With Kiddom, districts can localize and republish versions of IM 360 that are right for their respective populations,” Manjee continued. “And once they do, we give them a real-time perspective on core curriculum usage and student achievement. The insights they can unlock with that kind of data are incredibly powerful.”

IM 360 powered by Kiddom will be available for implementation in the 2024-2025 school year.

To learn more, please visit illustrativemathematics.org.

About Illustrative Mathematics

Illustrative Mathematics is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating a world where all learners know, use, and enjoy mathematics. To learn more, visit illustrativemathematics.org.

About Kiddom

Kiddom is a paradigm shifter for equitable learning experiences, merging dynamic technology with high-quality instructional materials. Kiddom partners with high-quality curriculum providers, like Illustrative Mathematics, to transform print materials into engaging, insightful digital learning experiences. Kiddom helps educators understand, customize, implement, and measure the impact of core curriculum on a simple, powerful platform. To learn more, visit Kiddom.co.

Media Contact

Illustrative Mathematics, Illustrative Mathematics, 1 (608) 216 7300 107, [email protected], https://illustrativemathematics.org/

SOURCE Illustrative Mathematics

Society: Christianity

Women In Trucking Association Names Shelley Simpson as 2023 Influential Woman in Trucking

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Finalists for the 2023 award included Tori Blake, Chief Financial Officer and Co-owner, Western Logistics Express and WLX, and Megan Ferguson, Vice President of End-to-End Delivery Acceleration, Walmart.

“It’s a privilege for Women In Trucking to recognize Shelley Simpson as our 2023 Influential Woman in Trucking award winner,” said Jennifer Hedrick, WIT President and CEO. “Shelley’s passion and leadership for this field, including her commitment to expanding gender diversity in transportation, have been evident throughout her nearly 30-year career.”

“On behalf of Daimler Truck North America, our congratulations to all of the remarkable finalists for the 2023 Influential Woman in Trucking award who have and continue to work tirelessly to create expanded opportunities for women in our industry,” said Angela Lentz, Chief People Officer, DTNA. “In addition, I want to congratulate Shelly Simpson for being named the 2023 Influential Woman in Trucking. Her amazing and vast career, commitment to others and impact on trucking are all impressive accomplishments worthy of this unique recognition.”

Simpson’s career at J.B. Hunt reflects the company’s continued progression as an innovative leader in the transportation and logistics industry.

Since joining J.B. Hunt as an hourly customer service representative, she has held multiple positions for business segments across the company, including most recently serving as Chief Commercial Officer and Executive Vice President of People and Human Resources.

In 2007, Simpson was named President of Integrated Capacity Solutions (ICS), a business unit she helped create. While continuing to develop ICS, Simpson assumed sales and marketing executive responsibilities in 2011 and was appointed Chief Marketing Officer. She took on additional leadership in 2014 as President of J.B. Hunt’s Truckload business segment, helping improve the efficiency of the company’s fleet.

Simpson was named Chief Commercial Officer in 2017, leading strategic direction of marketing, sales, customer experience, and external product development, including J.B. Hunt 360°, the company’s technology platform for freight matching and operational efficiency. As the company evolved J.B. Hunt 360 and its technology-driven services, Simpson was also responsible for commercializing them on a global scale as the leader of International Services. In 2020, she was named Executive Vice President of People and Human Resources, leading the company’s efforts to create a more inclusive culture and work environment.

Simpson was named President in 2022, and currently provides management and performance oversight for all company business units, in addition to emerging technology, developing services and People and Human Resources.

Simpson serves on the board for multiple organizations, including the Mercy Health Foundation and the Dean’s Executive Advisory Board for the Sam M. Walton College of Business at the University of Arkansas, in addition to serving on the DSA Selection Committee for the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals.

In 2016, she received the Distinguished Woman in Logistics award by Women In Trucking and was named 2017 ATHENA Woman of the Year at the NWA Business Women’s Conference. In 2020, she received the Power50 Award by the National Diversity Council and was named a 2020 Top Influencer by Arkansas Money & Politics. In 2021, she was named one of the Top 100 Women in Supply Chain by Supply Chain Digital and has been named one of the top 100 HR Professionals by the National Diversity Council in 2022. She recently received the 2022 Woman of the Year in Innovation award by the Women’s Foundation of Arkansas and the Excellence in Free Enterprise Award from Economics Arkansas.

Originally from Russellville, Arkansas, Simpson graduated from the University of Arkansas with a bachelor’s degree in marketing. She lives in Rogers, AR with her husband David and three children.

About Women In Trucking Association, Inc.
Women In Trucking Association, Inc. is a nonprofit association established to encourage the employment of women in the trucking industry, promote their accomplishments and minimize obstacles faced by women working in the trucking industry. Membership is not limited to women, as 17 percent of its members are men who support the mission. Women In Trucking is supported by its members and the generosity of Gold Level Partners: Arrow Truck Sales, Bridgestone Americas, Daimler Truck North America, FedEx Freight, Great Dane, J.B. Hunt Transport, Michelin North America, Navistar International, Inc., PACCAR, Penske Transportation Solutions, Ryder System, Walmart, and WM. Follow WIT on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. For more information, visit http://www.womenintrucking.org or call 888-464-9482.

Media Contact

Courtney Bloom, Women In Trucking Association, 405-760-8464, [email protected], https://www.womenintrucking.org

SOURCE Women In Trucking Association