Black Male Impact Series: Antoine Smith on Leadership and Legacy

Throughout my life and career, I have learned that representation matters profoundly. As we celebrate a century of recognizing Black History Month, I am reminded of the impact that diverse voices and stories have in shaping our cultural landscape. My journey has taught me that the strength of our communities lies in our ability to uplift one another and share our narratives,” she said. “It is essential to honor the contributions of Black leaders, artists, and innovators who have paved the way for future generations.” “As we celebrated last month, let us commit to fostering inclusivity and ensuring that marginalized voices are not just heard but celebrated. At the Museum of Pop Culture, we strive to create spaces that reflect the richness of our shared history and inspire new generations to dream big. Together, we can build a future where everyone’s story is valued and acknowledged.” Grateful for the highlight and feature in The Root's piece, honoring the 100th anniversary of Black History Month, https://lnkd.in/gzRMXuQm

The discussion of the glass cliff is such a great term. I have met so many leaders from marginalised backgrounds that are elevated only when institutions are already in crisis and are then blamed when structural problems inevitably persist. It raises an important question: should we focus on reforming these institutions, or on building new ones? In my experience, and as I have done, it can sometimes be easier to lead independently than to struggle within corporate charity structures. I'm on a mission to expose this culture and those that uphold it! Great article. I will be emailing you for a copy!

I’m so encouraged to see more and more studies being conducted on Black women in educational leadership and leadership more broadly.

I'm pleased to present the second article in our three-part series on Black feminist leadership, titled "A Holistic Black Feminist Framework for Thriving in Leadership." In school psychology and other professional environments, Black women often face "glass cliffs," "concrete ceilings," and unique systemic pressures that can result in burnout and disengagement. The same challenges apply to other leaders with marginalized sociocultural identities. Our article introduces a framework based on Black feminist theory to help marginalized leaders go beyond mere survival and achieve true thriving. We explore:  💫 Moving from tokenism to structural inclusion 💫 The power of storytelling and community care 💫 Culturally responsive strategies to foster more affirming environments for all leaders Thank you, Erin A. Harper, PhD, and April T., for leading this article! I'm also grateful to all my co-authors for their brilliance and vulnerability: Aleah Hayes, Areana Padilla, Amber M. Sessoms, DEd, NCSP, Erika Wood, PsyD., NCSP, Carleta Joseph, and Nikki Sutton, Psy.D., NCSP. NASP members can read it here: https://lnkd.in/g6_Bu_F7 Also, check out the first article of the series, "Reimagining Leadership Through the Lens of Black Feminist Thought," at this link: https://lnkd.in/gTp5z9NP Others, feel free to message me or email me (celeste.malone@howard.edu) if you are interested in getting a copy of the article. #SchoolPsychology #SocialJustice #Leadership #BlackFeministThought #BlackFeministLeadership

This is what it looks like when strategy, leadership, and real-world experience come together in one room. The Black Wealth Summit 2026 is bringing together a diverse group of speakers across real estate, finance, artificial intelligence, policy, business, and personal development—all focused on one objective: Building, protecting, and scaling wealth in today’s evolving economy. These are leaders, operators, and professionals who are actively doing the work—not just talking about it. 📍 May 1–2, 2026 The Westin DC Downtown Washington, D.C. This experience is designed for those who are serious about creating long-term, generational impact. Supported by leading financial institutions and corporate partners committed to advancing Black economic empowerment. The room is building. Make sure you’re in it.

Leadership should not cost you your well-being. Rooted & Restored is an 8-week coaching experience for high-achieving Black women who want practical boundary skills, stronger emotional clarity, and sustainable ways to protect their capacity. If you’re ready to lead without resentment or burnout, explore the program on our website and apply today.

Where It Applies. Where does this work apply? Wherever leadership, policy, and organizational systems shape outcomes. The Invisible Black Woman® framework is applied across higher education, corporate environments, and community-based systems to examine how visibility, advancement, and economic positioning are influenced by institutional structures. This cross-sector application strengthens its relevance for both analysis and implementation. #Leadership #HigherEducation #InstitutionalStrategy #Oyinkansola

There are some conversations you don’t just read—you recognize yourself in them. This is one of those. I’m celebrating my colleague and friend Dr. Michelle Hector II on the release of The Constant Outsider. What she’s put into the world here isn’t just research—it’s language for experiences so many Black women have been navigating quietly, skillfully, and often alone. Working in #globaleducation, I’ve seen this play out across borders, institutions, and cultures—the brilliance, the resilience, the constant negotiation of visibility and invisibility. Being “the only one in the room”… and still choosing to lead, to build, to transform. Michelle’s work feels like both mirror and map. A reflection of lived truth, and a guide forward. If you’re in leadership, education, or any space where equity isn’t just a buzzword but a daily practice—this is a conversation worth stepping into. And especially for Black women in global education… I’m curious: Where have you found your power in spaces that weren’t built with you in mind? Let’s talk. 👇🏾

🌟Celebrating Black History Month with Career Insight, Leadership, and Connection As part of Baruch College’s celebration of Black History Month, more than 30 students recently gathered for a dynamic panel discussion on professional growth, resilience, and leadership. The event, “Next Gen Leaders: Learning from Black Professionals,” created a space for honest conversation about building meaningful careers with authenticity, confidence, and pride. Panelists shared how they arrived at their current professions, offering students a behind‑the‑scenes look at the challenges, pivots, and triumphs that defined their paths. Read more https://lnkd.in/eXDsFij6 #BaruchStarr #BaruchCollege #BlackHistoryMonth Baruch College Baruch College Office of Alumni Relations Zicklin School of Business

Dr. Blanche Penn is a reminder that real leadership doesn’t ask for permission—it moves with purpose. For nearly three decades, she has transformed lived experience into action—advocating for youth, challenging systems, and documenting truth through her writing. From becoming the first Black woman to chair a Parks & Rec board to standing firm even when it cost her position, her work proves that impact often comes with resistance. What stands out most is her commitment to ownership. Not just of ideas, but of voice, story, and community responsibility. Her books aren’t just stories—they’re records of lived truth, lessons, and legacy. In a time where visibility is often mistaken for impact, Dr. Penn represents something deeper: substance, accountability, and real work. If you’re building, leading, or creating—this is your reminder: document it, stand on it, and protect it. Read the full article at https://lnkd.in/ecWSRBHh