Celebrating Black History Month

February marks Black History Month, celebrating the achievements and impacts of African Americans. Over on The Network, our own Wylia Sims has been highlighting notable black leaders from our community, while encouraging alumni to turn their “attention to the achievements and unrecognized contributions of all Americans under-represented in our history books” every day.

You can read the entire thread and join the conversation on The Network – login here.

In addition to honoring leaders who shaped our past, we recognize that there are countless Leadership Foundation alumni who are creating an impact for people of color. Today, I’d like to introduce you to alums Ryan Cobbins, Michelyn Johnson and Norma Paige.

Ryan – an alum of Leadership Denver 2016 – was inspired by his three daughters to create a community gathering place in the historic Five Points neighborhood. Since 2010, he’s run Coffee at The Point, hosting neighbors and visitors alike, from teachers grading papers and book clubs holding meetings to game nights and live music.

Michelyn – an alum of Impact Denver Fall 2016 and LD 2019 – is a co-founder of RISE 5280, which has already introduced nearly 500 students of color from the Denver metro area to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in just two years while advocating the importance of investing in our youth so they will in turn invest back in our community.

Norma – also an LD 2019 alum – is vice president of 100 Men Who Cook, which supports Denver’s youth by helping grassroots nonprofit organizations that have a proven track record of raising operating capital to sustain their goals and objectives. The 100 Men Who Cook Gala was started in 1984 by Vivian Kerr, regional director of the United Negro College Fund, and aligned with an annual telethon supporting scholarships for students attending HBCUs. When the fundraiser returned in 2012, Norma, Vivian’s sister, was there to take the lead.