Category: Website Stories

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Education, Website Stories

The Jewel Institute: Building Confidence in Math: How Autumn Shead Is Helping Students Succeed

Damita Miller-Shanklin, Writer When I was in school, math was always a challenge for me. From learning the abacus in elementary school to taking courses in college, it never quite clicked. Looking back, I realize one thing I didn’t take advantage of was tutoring—something that might have made a real difference. That’s why I found the work of Autumn Shead so interesting. As the Founder … Continue reading The Jewel Institute: Building Confidence in Math: How Autumn Shead Is Helping Students Succeed

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From Survival to Purpose: A Woman’s Journey from Trauma to Freedom

Interview with Dannece Shawnta Crocker By Cheri’ Angelique’ Grant-July Today, I had the pleasure of interviewing with a beautiful woman who had experienced various trials and obstacles before becoming the D.I.V.A. (Divine Inspired Valued Asset) she is today. There are moments in life that divide time into “before” and “after.”For her, that moment came at thirteen. Before that age, she was like many children — … Continue reading From Survival to Purpose: A Woman’s Journey from Trauma to Freedom

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Black History Month: Standing on the Shoulders of Survivors

A Legacy of Faith, Excellence, and Unshakable Roots Lady Madelyn Patterson, Contributor There’s something profound about looking back with older eyes on memories that seemed ordinary when you were young. What once felt like simple family visits now reveal themselves as sacred inheritances—moments when legacy was being quietly transferred from weathered hands to eager hearts. The Geography of Memory As an Air Force brat, my … Continue reading Black History Month: Standing on the Shoulders of Survivors

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Austinites – In 2026, Can We Love Without Rules – Starting with Me

Phyllis Everette, Contributor “Mom, I left some Dove chocolate on the counter for you!” she called, already halfway down the hall, already halfway to the next flight, the next beginning. She knows my sweet spot, I thought, smiling at the small sweetness left behind. I pictured it later with Law & Order, a quiet companionship: me, the couch, the hum of sirens making sense of … Continue reading Austinites – In 2026, Can We Love Without Rules – Starting with Me

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Website Stories

March 10-National Day of Rest for Black Women

On today, March 10, 2025, we will commemorate the day of Harriet Tubman’s passing as the ultimate day of rest for Black women. We will reclaim our right to rest from our daily labor, from our work on behalf of others and sow into ourselves. Today is a reminder to pause, reflect, and renew. Take a moment to check in with yourself—what’s working? What needs … Continue reading March 10-National Day of Rest for Black Women

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