Education
Re-Imagined
LIFE HAS CHANGED!!! The world as we know it has gone through a radical transformation that no one was prepared for or expected. As we traverse these uncharted waters it has become paramount that we change our way of thinking and re-imagine how education needs must be revamped to tackle the challenges before us today in preparation for meeting a successful tomorrow.
Zoom Training Project
In January 2021, the Education Committee of the Metro-Richmond Area Chapter (M-RAC) of the National Congress of Black Women (NCBW) sponsored a Zoom Training Project for our membership and constituents. It was a special treat to have our National President & CEO, Dr. E. Faye Williams join us, along with members from sister organizations. The goal of the project was two-fold – to enhance our skills using the Zoom technology and to prepare for new leadership opportunities that have unfolded since the occurrence of the COVID-19 pandemic. The training program was divided into four sessions, where participants kicked off the year, meeting on successive Monday’s. Using a skill-building format, we started with the foundations of the Zoom Program and closed out focusing on advanced meeting functions and other customizations.
Mr. Ditu Kasuyi, President and Leadership Coach of Kasuyi & Associates, LLC, exceeded our expectations in providing a hands-on learning experience that felt personable, despite a group size of twenty women. Feedback in the closing session was very positive where each group member stated great satisfaction in having met personal goals. Collectively, our growth was apparent as well, as we foresee numerous ways to use what we have learned in being the catalyst for growth and change within our communities. Overall, the Education Committee was pleased to have served as host, where we have grown in our knowledge of technology and its impact upon our leadership capabilities.
​
Members of the Education Committee are: Joyce Bassette, Felandria Jackson, Joyce Knight, Maria Poindexter, Marian Spencer Shearin, Shelley White, and Atarah-Sheba Young. Carrie Knighton is the Chair of M-RAC, NCBW.
Phase l: In conjunction with our national NCBW initiative "College for Kids ", M-RAC has developed our youth conference entitled Step Up & Step Out. This annual event is an interactive one day conference which encompasses a clear concise look at the obstacles and perils of the journey of middle and high school as the students prepare for career and/or college preparation.
Phase ll: Transformative Experience, the signature multi-year plan of Virginia State University is designed to prepare a student to be a 21st century innovator, a future leader with the knowledge and insight necessary to change our world for the better. In conjunction with VSU, our national NCBW Initiative College for Teens program, M-RAC seeks to forge a partnership entitled Transformative Education-The Future. This program will give each student and their parents a thorough indoctrination in preparation for the college experience and career development path. This program is interactive to include an introduction to college life, virtual college tours, VSU Professor and student interaction, financial aid options, and other pertinent information. This will truly be a hands-on, all-inclusive program and a wealth of information.
Phase lll: Education Re-Imagined means re-thinking career choices. College is not be the only path for high school graduates. More and more, it has become evident that Certification Programs are needed to meet the ever growing demand in the trades; welding, construction, plumbing, heating and air conditioning, and masonry just to name a few of the skills that undergird the entirety of life. Adding to this are new technologies with specialties in coding, drones, etc., requiring different skill sets. The Health Care industry has created numerous opportunities. These career paths will provide opportunities for small business development and job creation.
