Conference Program
The goal of this free conference is to create a meaningful dialogue around expanding the pipeline of college admission and success among men of color in Philadelphia. Emphasis will be placed on conversations that engage, educate and empower through a lens of care and equity, while acting to advance education at local, regional and national levels.
Conference Location
Community College of Philadelphia's Main Campus is located at 1700 Spring Garden Street, Philadelphia PA, 19130. The entrance to the Bonnell Building is on 17th Street, between Spring Garden and Callowhill streets. Parking is available in the Main Garage with entrances on 17th and 18th streets.
Conference Schedule
Registration Opens at 8:30 a.m. in the Bonnell Building Lobby
Keynote Address with Dr. Keith Leaphart
9:45 to 10:30 a.m.
Bonnell Building, Large Auditorium, Room BG-20
Enterprise Executive Vice President and Humana Chief Health Equity and Community Impact Officer, Thomas Jefferson University, Jefferson Health and Jefferson Health Plans
Dr. Keith Leaphart is an innovator whose expansive, parallel careers in medicine, business and philanthropy have driven him to help redefine what it means to be a philanthropist. Through his service as a board member and current Chair of the Lenfest Foundation, Keith has a deep understanding of the philanthropic ecosystem; its advantages, and its most under-maximized assets. Everyday individuals make up nearly 70 percent of all giving each year. Keith believes everyday people, more than foundations or corporations, should be given every opportunity to optimize their philanthropic impact. That’s why he founded Philanthropi, a fintech company leading the next generation of philanthropy through its innovative giving platform, which democratizes giving for everyone, and amplifies its impact. By partnering with financial institutions, employers, universities, and non-profit organizations, Philanthropi fosters new levels of engagement and empowers everyday donors to support their favorite nonprofit organizations with the click of a button. Keith also serves on the boards of the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce, Philadelphia Health Management Corporation, Philadelphia Media Network, and Comcast Corporation’s external Joint Diversity Advisory Council.
Morning Breakout Sessions, 10:45 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Fathers as Advocates: The Role of Men of Color in Shaping Inclusive Education
Location: Bonnell Building, Room TBD
Learning Track: Administrators, Students
Presenters: Jamiel Owens, Family Relations Coordinator, The Center for Autism Research at CHOP; Co Presenter, Jamilah F. Bashir, The IEP Coach; Jamiel Owens, Family Relations Coordinator, CHOP Research Institute
In the evolving landscape of special education, the role of fathers—particularly men of color—has become increasingly critical in advocating for more inclusive educational environments for their autistic children. This session will explore the unique challenges and opportunities that fathers of color face in the educational system and how their active involvement can significantly impact the inclusivity and success of their children’s education. This presentation will equip fathers with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) process, engage effectively with educators, and advocate for culturally competent and inclusive practices within schools. Attendees will gain insights into overcoming cultural barriers, the importance of representation in education, and the power of community engagement. This session brings together expertise in special education advocacy and lived experience from a father of an autistic child, offering a comprehensive and impactful perspective on this important topic.
Overcoming Adversity: The Power of Resilience and Mentorship
Location: Bonnell Building, Room TBDLearning Track: Administrators, Students
Presenter: Al Zama-Chi, Youth Mentorship Coordinator, African Family Health Organization; Co-presenters: Emmanuel Oyelami, Sheku Kallon, Kenechukwui David Onyebolise, Mohamed Ezeldin Hassan Ibrahim
Gun violence has plagued our communities, disproportionately affecting young Black men. Yet, amidst this adversity, stories of resilience and triumph emerge. This session explores the experiences of Black immigrant boys and young men who have overcome traumatic backgrounds and pursued higher education. We will delve into the strategies that have enabled them to navigate challenges and achieve academic success. The Impact of Gun Violence Philadelphia has grappled with a devastating surge in gun violence, with young Black men bearing the brunt of the consequences. In 2021, homicide was the leading cause of death for Black men aged 15 to 43. The city recognized the urgent need for intervention and partnered with organizations like the African Family Health Organization (AFAHO) to address this crisis. AFAHO has provided essential support to at-risk youth. This session will highlight the experiences of three young men who have overcome adversity and achieved academic success. We will discuss the role of mentorship, safe havens, and trauma-informed practices in fostering resilience and promoting positive outcomes.
They Not Like Us!
Location: Bonnell Building, Room TBD
Learning Track: Administrators, Students
Presenter: Amir Fralin, Creator and Founder, PRES! Please LLC
This presentation will be geared around the transition for young men of color to a post-secondary space that looks different from the spaces that they have grown up around and become accustomed to. Whether that be college, trade school and/or career. We will speak about how to build confidence, leverage and be successful in those spaces. The goal is to have these young men leave the space knowing that, yes, it will be different, but look at that the word different as a positive, instead of a negative, taking their own personal situations, experiences, knowledge and understanding that it is not like anyone else's.
Never Be Hungry Again!
Location: Bonnell Building, Room TBD
Learning Track: Students
Presenter: Jenavia Weaver, Director, Student Engagement, Community College of Philadelphia
The Pew Research Center's most recent report indicates that "the Black population of the United States is growing." In 2021, there were an estimated 47.2 million people who self-identified as Black, representing 14.2% of the country's population. According to Feeding America, in 2020, 24% of Black individuals experienced food insecurity, which was more than three times the rate of white households. The Black community consistently faces high rates of hunger due to social, economic, and environmental challenges. To address the high rates of food insecurity amongst Black people, many people in the Black community are returning to their agricultural roots to ensure their neighbors have access to nutrient-rich foods. In 2017, the U.S. had 48,697 producers who identified as Black, accounting for 1.4 percent of the country's 3.4 million producers, and they lived and farmed primarily in southeastern and mid-Atlantic states. Their farms were smaller and the value of their agriculture sales was less than 1 percent of the U.S. total of $1.4 billion. Never be hungry again. Start where you are. Urban agriculture includes the cultivating, processing and distribution of agricultural products in urban and suburban areas through community gardens, rooftop farms, hydroponic, aeroponic, and aquaponic facilities, and vertical production. Plant a seed and put food on your table. Participants will learn how to build raised beds, plant and grow in any setting—apartments, homes, limited space, or any space. You, your family, your children and your community will never be hungry again!
Addressing Health Disparities: A Focus on Men of Color
Location: Bonnell Building, Room TBDLearning Track: Administrators, Students
Presenter: Walter Copeland, Professor, Community College of Philadelphia
In this presentation, I will address the deeply personal and critical issue of health disparities affecting men of color, an area that resonates with both my professional and lived experiences. As someone who has dedicated years to studying and addressing the inequities within our health care system, I have seen firsthand how men of color are disproportionately impacted by chronic diseases, mental health challenges, and a lack of access to quality health care. My journey in this field has been shaped by a commitment to understanding and dismantling the systemic barriers that have long marginalized these communities. Together, we will explore how socioeconomic factors, educational attainment, employment opportunities, and community support intersect to hinder or promote health equity. The heart of this presentation will focus on the social determinants of health that perpetuate these disparities. I'll discuss how economic instability, limited educational opportunities, and adverse environmental conditions create obstacles to achieving optimal health. But more importantly, I'll share stories and strategies that demonstrate how these barriers can be overcome through targeted, culturally sensitive interventions. I believe in the power of community and collaboration to drive change. As such, I will propose strategies that emphasize the importance of engaging with and empowering men of color to take control of their health outcomes. Together, we can work toward a future where every man of color has the opportunity to live a healthy, fulfilling life.
The Value of Using Your Voice: Embracing Authenticity and Authority
Location: Bonnell Building, Room TBD
Learning Track: Students
Presenter: Malika Rahman, Founder and President, Be A Great You, Inc.
In an era where genuine representation and self-assurance are paramount, "The Value of Using Your Voice" is a transformative session designed to empower Black men to operate with authenticity and authority. This session will address the challenges and opportunities of expressing oneself boldly in various personal and professional contexts. Participants will explore the significance of being true to oneself and how authenticity fuels confidence and personal growth; learn strategies to assert oneself effectively, communicate with impact, and leverage one's unique voice in leadership and advocacy roles; discuss common obstacles faced by Black men in expressing their true selves and practical ways to overcome these challenges; and engage in dialogue with peers to share experiences, gain insights, and build a supportive network focused on mutual empowerment and collective advancement. Ideal for Black men at various stages of their personal and professional journeys, including students, young professionals, and established leaders seeking to enhance their impact and authenticity, this session uses education as a tool to empower and uplift participants.
The PAI Model
Location: Bonnell Building, Room TBD
Learning Track: Administrators
Facilitator: Tamir Harper, Director of Development & External Affairs, Philadelphia Academies Inc.; Co-presenter: F. Christopher Goins, President & CEO, Philadelphia Academies, Inc.
Founded in 1969 to address the dropout rate among Black males in Philadelphia, Philadelphia Academies, Inc. (PAI) has evolved into a leading organization that connects education and workforce development to create pathways for student success. This session will explore PAI’s innovative approach to supporting middle school and 9th grade students through its Success Networks and integrated workforce development initiatives. Participants will gain insight into PAI’s impact over the decades, with a focus on its strategies for engaging students at critical points in their education. We will highlight how PAI’s collaborative partnerships with local businesses and industries provide students with real-world experiences and career exploration opportunities directly within the school setting. Attendees will understand how PAI’s model improves student retention, increases graduation rates, and prepares students for future careers. Practical tips and strategies will be provided for replicating PAI’s success in other schools, emphasizing culturally responsive practices and equity in education.
Booker T. Washington: The Architect of Progressive Education
Location: Bonnell Building, Room TBD
Learning Track: Administrators, Students
Presenter: Dr. Donald Guy Generals, President, Community College of Philadelphia
The session will focus on the genius of Booker T. Washington and his contribution to American education. Living in the shadow of W.E.B. Dubois, Washington has been historically maligned and his reputation has been distorted. The presentation will set out to set the record straight.
Lunch, 12 to 1 p.m. | Winnet Student Life Building, Great Hall, Room S2-19
Afternoon Breakout Sessions, 1:10 to 2:25 p.m.
Purpose to Pathway
Location: Bonnell Building, Room TBD
Learning Track: Students
Presenters: Aaron Helton-Holloman and Cameo Pritchett, Academic Advisors, Community College of Philadelphia
This workshop is designed to help students understand the basic foundations of finding their purpose in life. It encourages students to view themselves as a work in progress, and to use their life/college experience and self-reflection as tools for exploring their purpose. Through interactive discussions, self-assessment exercises, and guided activities, students will gain a clearer understanding of what purpose means and how it plays a crucial role in personal and professional fulfillment. The workshop will introduce the Ikigai model, a Japanese concept that combines passion, mission, vocation and profession to help students further discover their own unique purpose.
The Role of Community in Supporting College Success
Location: Bonnell Building, Room TBD
Learning Track: Administrators, Students
Presenter: Reginald Howard, Reginald A. Howard & Associates
The presentation will highlight the importance of creating formal and informal support structures, such as mentoring programs, peer support groups, and culturally relevant counseling services, that are tailored to the unique needs of men of color. The session will emphasize the role of community organizations in creating a sense of belonging and providing resources that help students cope with stress, overcome obstacles, and build resilience. Participants will be encouraged to consider the broader definition of “community,” which includes not only family and friends, but also faculty, staff, and local organizations that contribute to a supportive and empowering environment. The session will also address the importance of community advocacy in promoting policies and practices that enhance access to mental health services, academic support, and career readiness programs for men of color. Through case studies and examples of successful community-based initiatives, the presentation will demonstrate how these networks of support can significantly enhance the college experience for men of color, leading to improved retention rates, academic achievement, and personal growth. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of how to engage and mobilize communities to support the success of men of color in college, as well as practical strategies for implementing these ideas.
Empowering Men of Color to Mitigate Harm and Foster Healing through Restorative Practices
Location: Bonnell Building, Room TBD
Learning Track: Administrators, Students
Presenter: Jack Drummond, Director of Restorative Practices, University of Pennsylvania; Co-presenter, Sarah Byker James, Assistant Professor of English, Community College of Philadelphia
Restorative practices provide a wonderful framework for addressing and reducing harm in our communities, schools, and workplaces, especially for men of color who often face systemic challenges and social injustices. In this session, we will introduce restorative practices as a tool for empowering men of color to actively engage in healing and uplifting their communities. By emphasizing dialogue, accountability, relationship-building, restorative practices create a powerful pathway to transform conflicts and lessen the impact of harm on both individuals and communities. The session will explore restorative circles, mediation and community conferencing, showcasing how these approaches can be used to tackle issues like gun violence, stigma, and disparities in educational and professional settings. Participants will discover how restorative practices can cultivate safe spaces for open conversations, encourage mutual understanding, and nurture a culture of respect and support among men of color. Attendees will walk away with practical strategies for implementing restorative practices, empowering them to become positive agents of change in their communities.
Black Male Empowerment and Living Full
Location: Bonnell Building, Room TBD
Learning Track: Students
Presenter: F. Christopher Goins, President & CEO, Philadelphia Academies, Inc.; Co-presenter, Tamir D. Harper, Director of Development & External Affairs, Philadelphia Academies Inc.
In a nation where the life expectancy of Black men starkly lags behind that of their white counterparts, the urgency to confront this reality is more pressing than ever. This session will engage, educate and empower young Black men by shedding light on the often-overlooked statistics that shape our lives. As we navigate through the sobering data of life expectancy rates in the United States—particularly in Philadelphia—we'll explore the social, economic and health disparities that contribute to these alarming numbers. But awareness is just the beginning. Our session will dive into the root causes behind these disparities, from systemic inequalities to health-related stigmas, and will challenge the audience to reflect on the ways these factors have impacted their lives and communities. Participants will be encouraged to share their experiences, thoughts, and strategies for overcoming these challenges. We will not only discuss the problems, but will focus on actionable solutions. Attendees will leave with practical steps to take control of their health, advocate for themselves and their communities, and break the cycle that has kept life expectancy rates for Black men disproportionately low. The goal is to inspire a collective movement toward change—equipping every man to defy the odds and contribute to a future where Black men not only live longer, but thrive. Join us in this critical conversation, where we will flip the script and redefine what it means to live a full and healthy life as a Black man in America. Together, we can change the narrative and empower each other to create a brighter, healthier future.
Do Black Men Deserve Joy?
Location: Bonnell Building, Room TBD
Learning Track: Administrators, Students
Presenters: Carl Jones and Tyrell Bradshaw, Center for Male Engagement (CME), Community College of Philadelphia
This presentation will not only exemplify why black men deserve joy, but we will be highlighting the many ways in which black men have gone about spreading joy throughout our community at large. From highlighting the achievements of former CME members to breaking down statistical data and best practices, we will showcase the progression of black men in our community while seeking ways to enhance their feelings of belonging within modern society. How to go about breaking generational curses, celebrating vulnerability, and investing in our youth are only a few topics that we will be addressing in our presentation.
They Not Like Us!
Location: Bonnell Building, Room TBD
Learning Track: Administrators, Students
Presenter: Amir Fralin, Creator and Founder, PRES! Please LLC
This presentation will be geared around the transition for young men of color to a post-secondary space that looks different from the spaces that they have grown up around and become accustomed to. Whether that be college, trade school and/or career. We will speak about how to build confidence, leverage and be successful in those spaces. The goal is to have these young men leave the space knowing that, yes, it will be different, but look at that the word different as a positive, instead of a negative, taking their own personal situations, experiences, knowledge and understanding that it is not like anyone else's.
Never Be Hungry Again!
Location: Bonnell Building, Room TBD
Learning Track: Students
Presenter: Jenavia Weaver, Director, Student Engagement, Community College of Philadelphia
The Pew Research Center's most recent report indicates that "the Black population of the United States is growing." In 2021, there were an estimated 47.2 million people who self-identified as Black, representing 14.2% of the country's population. According to Feeding America, in 2020, 24% of Black individuals experienced food insecurity, which was more than three times the rate of white households. The Black community consistently faces high rates of hunger due to social, economic, and environmental challenges. To address the high rates of food insecurity amongst Black people, many people in the Black community are returning to their agricultural roots to ensure their neighbors have access to nutrient-rich foods. In 2017, the U.S. had 48,697 producers who identified as Black, accounting for 1.4 percent of the country's 3.4 million producers, and they lived and farmed primarily in southeastern and mid-Atlantic states. Their farms were smaller and the value of their agriculture sales was less than 1 percent of the U.S. total of $1.4 billion. Never be hungry again. Start where you are. Urban agriculture includes the cultivating, processing and distribution of agricultural products in urban and suburban areas through community gardens, rooftop farms, hydroponic, aeroponic, and aquaponic facilities, and vertical production. Plant a seed and put food on your table. Participants will learn how to build raised beds, plant and grow in any setting—apartments, homes, limited space, or any space. You, your family, your children and your community will never be hungry again!
Fathers as Advocates: The Role of Men of Color in Shaping Inclusive Education
Location: Bonnell Building, Room TBD
Learning Track: Administrators, Students
Presenters: Jamiel Owens, Family Relations Coordinator, The Center for Autism Research at CHOP; Co Presenter, Jamilah F. Bashir, The IEP Coach; Jamiel Owens, Family Relations Coordinator, CHOP Research Institute
In the evolving landscape of special education, the role of fathers—particularly men of color—has become increasingly critical in advocating for more inclusive educational environments for their autistic children. This session will explore the unique challenges and opportunities that fathers of color face in the educational system and how their active involvement can significantly impact the inclusivity and success of their children’s education. This presentation will equip fathers with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) process, engage effectively with educators, and advocate for culturally competent and inclusive practices within schools. Attendees will gain insights into overcoming cultural barriers, the importance of representation in education, and the power of community engagement. This session brings together expertise in special education advocacy and lived experience from a father of an autistic child, offering a comprehensive and impactful perspective on this important topic.
Booker T. Washington: The Architect of Progressive Education
Location: Bonnell Building, Room TBD
Learning Track: Administrators, Students
Presenter: Dr. Donald Guy Generals, President, Community College of Philadelphia
The session will focus on the genius of Booker T. Washington and his contribution to American education. Living in the shadow of W.E.B. Dubois, Washington has been historically maligned and his reputation has been distorted. The presentation will set out to set the record straight.
The Impact of Positive Parenting
Location: Bonnell Building, Room TBD
Learning Track: Administrators, Students
Presenter: Emmanuel Harris
This session will highlight the crucial role of strong parenting in the lives of young men of color, providing participants with valuable insights into the impact of positive parental relationships, having a strong and positive figure in their lives that may not be a parent, effective communication strategies, and the importance of setting high expectations. By focusing on the importance of strong parenting, this session aims to empower young men of color to build positive relationships with their parents, understanding that even if there isn’t a parent that is involved, they can seek an adult that they look up to that is a positive influence in their lives, develop essential life skills, and achieve their full potential.
Closing Session, 2:30 to 3 p.m., Speaker TBD
Bonnell Building, Large Auditorium, Room BG-20
About the Conference
Far too often, society's discussions relative to Black and Latine males takes on a deficit-based approach. In Philadelphia, where the Black and Latine male segments jointly account for more than a quarter of the city's population, it is essential that we focus on their strengths and the empowering opportunities that exist within and around these communities. True transformative empowerment requires engagement and education, and this conference aims to do all three.
The goal of this free conference is to create a meaningful dialogue around expanding the pipeline of college admission and success among men of color in Philadelphia. Emphasis will be placed on conversations that engage, educate and empower through a lens of care and equity, while acting to advance education at local, regional and national levels.
The conference’s theme, There Must Come a Change, is in honor of Octavius V. Catto. Born in 1839, Catto was a pioneer and the greatest civil rights leader in post-Civil War Philadelphia. He pledged that Black men would be able to freely vote and worked tirelessly to get Pennsylvania to ratify the 15th Amendment, which was accomplished in October 1870. Tragically, Catto was gunned down in 1871 as he cast his own vote on election day. Today Octavius V. Catto is remembered for progressively leading generations of leaders to fight for and create change. Through the Catto Education Project, there are many schools named in his honor, teachings and workshop classes, and scholarship programs, including Community College of Philadelphia’s Octavius Catto Scholarship. Combining last-dollar funding with special wrap-around support services, the scholarship addresses obstacles like tuition and fees, as well as burdens that hit many Philadelphians particularly hard, including costs associated with food, transportation and books.
In remembering his legacy, this conference will serve as a call to action to make education more accessible, affordable, equitable and inclusive for everyone. It is a call to rise up against the inequitable structures that continue to exist in our educational system.
“There must come a change which shall force upon this nation that course which providence seems wisely to be directing for the mutual benefit of peoples.”
—Octavius V. Catto
By attending this event, you agree to be photographed and/or filmed and give permission to use your likeness in promotional and/or marketing materials.
Community College of Philadelphia welcomes participants with disabilities. If you require an accommodation related to disability to participate in this event, please contact Erica Harrison at eharrison@ccp.edu as soon as possible to allow the College to make appropriate arrangements.