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A Curated Collection of Powerful Talks for Black History Month: Empower Through Dialogue
- February 1, 2025
FocusQuest‘s mission is to provide a platform for learning, growth, and the empowerment of all communities through thoughtful, engaging content. In honor of Black History Month, we invite you to explore a series of thought-provoking talks that highlight key issues surrounding race, justice, and identity. These talks not only honor the history and legacy of Black culture but also encourage meaningful conversations that can lead to greater understanding and change.
“The Danger of a Single Story” by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Explore how diverse narratives shape perspectives.
In this powerful talk, novelist Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie explores how the stories we tell shape our perceptions. Through her own experiences, she uncovers the danger of a single narrative and how it distorts our understanding of others. By embracing multiple perspectives, we can avoid misunderstandings and see the world in its full complexity.
“How to Raise a Black Son in America” by Clint Smith
Gain insights into the challenges and aspirations of raising a Black son in America.
Clint Smith paints a poignant picture of the realities Black families face. In a heartfelt story about an interaction with his father, he sheds light on the fears, challenges, and guidance involved in raising a Black son in today’s America. His talk brings attention to the difficult yet important conversations Black parents have with their children.
“The Power of Vulnerability” by Brené Brown
Explore the significance of vulnerability in human connection.
Brené Brown’s TED Talk dives deep into the importance of vulnerability, empathy, and connection. By embracing vulnerability, we open ourselves up to understanding and belonging. Her research reveals how being open and honest creates deeper relationships, allowing us to connect more meaningfully with each other—critical themes for building a more empathetic world.
“Color Blind or Color Brave?” by Mellody Hobson
Navigate conversations on race with empathy and courage.
Finance executive Mellody Hobson tackles the complex subject of race in this enlightening talk. She argues that we must move beyond “color blindness” and embrace being “color brave.” Hobson emphasizes the importance of discussing race openly, especially in the workplace, to foster diversity and create a more inclusive society.
“We Need to Talk About an Injustice” by Bryan Stevenson
Understand the imbalance in America’s justice system.
Human rights lawyer Bryan Stevenson highlights the systemic racial injustice in the American legal system. In this gripping talk, Stevenson shares the hard truths about the disproportionate impact of the justice system on Black communities. His call to action urges us to confront uncomfortable truths and work toward real change.
Join the Conversation: #BlackHistoryMonth
These impactful talks offer a chance to engage in important discussions about race, identity, and justice. By listening to these voices and reflecting on their messages, we can continue to grow and empower each other. Let’s honor Black History Month by embracing these conversations and pushing for a more inclusive future.
At FocusQuest, we’re committed to fostering meaningful dialogue that drives understanding and action. Through these talks, we hope to inspire change and empower individuals to engage in the critical conversations that shape our world.
#BlackHistoryMonth #RacialBravery #ConversationsOnRace #TEDx #EmpowerThroughDialogue
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MedCerts & FocusQuest Unite Empowering Minority Students in Health & IT Careers
- January 22, 2025
LANHAM, Md., Jan. 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MedCerts, a nationally recognized leader in online healthcare and IT career training, and FocusQuest LLC, a passionate advocate for student success and educational access, are thrilled to launch a progressive partnership designed to provide minority students with expanded access to high-demand career pathways. In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy, MedCerts is proud to announce this collaboration with FocusQuest, whose partnerships with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) have supported more than 80,000 African American students in achieving their goals and advancing educational equity.
FocusQuest will offer minority students – spanning both high school and college levels – flexible allied health and IT training opportunities that lead to nationally recognized certifications. By equipping students with the skills to thrive in rapidly growing industries, this initiative leads the way for rewarding and stable careers while helping to alleviate critical workforce shortages.
“We strive to connect minority students with exceptional health-industry education,” said Sean-Reed McGee, CEO of FocusQuest. “These programs offer life-changing opportunities to pursue careers many students may not have thought possible. Our mission is to empower those who have ambition but need guidance and resources to succeed.”
This collaboration aims to level the playing field for minority students by providing them with the tools and training needed to succeed in today’s competitive job market. FocusQuest’s dedication to supporting HBCUs and MSIs aligns with MedCerts’ mission to make high-quality training accessible and impactful.
“We’re thrilled to provide students with opportunities to pursue in-demand careers, earn certifications that lead to immediate workforce entry, and build a foundation for financial stability—or even support their journey toward earning a degree,” said Robert Hiller, director of academic partnerships at MedCerts.
McGee added, “The right partnerships create unique opportunities, opening new possibilities for students who dream of achieving more. This collaboration is about breaking barriers and unlocking potential.”
More information on the partnership, these online certification programs and how to enroll, can be found here.
About MedCerts
MedCerts – a Stride Inc. company (NYSE: LRN) – is a national online training provider strengthening the workforce through innovative eLearning solutions. Focused on certifications in high-demand areas of Allied healthcare and IT, MedCerts delivers career training through HD-quality video-based instruction, virtual simulations, games, animations, and more. In 2023, MedCerts launched its Partner Solutions brand focused on building partnerships to bridge the gap between our students, job seekers, employers, higher education institutions, and workforce agencies. This new brand includes several partnership models, including recruitment, reseller, content licensing options, and more.
Since 2009, the company has developed over 50 career programs, trained and upskilled more than 100,000 individuals across the country, and partnered with over 400 American Job Centers and more than 1,000 healthcare organizations to build talent pipelines. For more information on MedCerts, visit medcerts.com. For more information on MedCerts Partner Solutions, visit partners.medcerts.com.
About FocusQuest:
FocusQuest is a student acquisition and success partner (SSP) firm exclusively dedicated to assisting HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) and MSIs (Minority Serving Institutions) in developing online educational programs for any of the in-class educational programs offered at the University. Since 2021, the company has developed corporate partnerships to directly build out and educate the next needed workforce, while expanding the convenience of online educational programs and creating student retention plans. For more information, visit www.focusquest.com.
Source: MedCerts
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New Year, New Focus
Dear Students,
As Student Success Coaches, we would like to take this opportunity to reach out and communicate with you directly. We understand that your academic journey can be challenging, but please know that we are here to support you every step of the way.
We want to remind you that your success is our top priority. We are here to provide you with guidance, resources, and support to help you achieve your academic goals. Whether you need assistance with time management, study skills, or navigating the university, we are here to help.
It is important to remember that you are not alone in this journey. For this reason we have created this entry to provide you with a direct message and to be able to contact us more directly. We hope you enjoy.
Student Success Coaches
New Year, New Focus
- January 2, 2025
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Welcome back, students! Whether you’re just beginning your educational journey or continuing your path, this moment matters. Your decision to pursue education shows courage and vision.
In our hyper-connected world, focus can be challenging. While our devices keep us connected, they can also derail our concentration. Remember: almost every notification can wait, but your education cannot.
Let’s address something crucial: asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness – it’s a strategy for success. Too many capable students miss opportunities for support simply because they don’t ask. Tutoring isn’t just for struggling students; it’s for smart students who want to excel. Don’t let outdated thinking block your path to achievement.
A simple truth: the most successful students are often those who utilize every resource available to them. Make this semester different. When you need help, reach out. Your professors, tutors, and support staff are there for one reason – your success.
At FocusQuest, we’re your champions. We believe in your potential and are here to support your journey. Make 2025 your year of focused determination and academic excellence.
Wishing you an extraordinary semester ahead!
Ndala M. Booker, Ed.D.
Chief Student Success Officer
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January 2025
January 2025
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Dear Students,
As Student Success Coaches, we would like to take this opportunity to reach out and communicate with you directly. We understand that your academic journey can be challenging, but please know that we are here to support you every step of the way.
We want to remind you that your success is our top priority. We are here to provide you with guidance, resources, and support to help you achieve your academic goals. Whether you need assistance with time management, study skills, or navigating the university, we are here to help.
It is important to remember that you are not alone in this journey. For this reason we have created this entry to provide you with a direct message and to be able to contact us more directly. We hope you enjoy.
Student Success Coaches
Finishing Strong, Looking Forward
- December 1, 2024
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As we wrap up this unique semester, I want to acknowledge the significant milestones many of you have achieved – from academic accomplishments to participating in your first presidential election. Regardless of outcomes, your engagement in these crucial moments shapes both your personal growth and our collective future.
Now, as final exams approach, think of yourself as an athlete in the last stretch of a marathon. You might feel you’ve given everything you have, but there’s always that remarkable surge of energy that appears in the final moments. That’s where you are right now. You’ve trained, you’ve prepared, and now it’s time for that final push toward the finish line. Keep your eyes fixed on your goals – they’re closer than they appear.
But remember, after the race comes rest. When exams end and the holiday break begins, give yourself permission to truly recharge. Step away from all of the screens that have dominated our lives. Bundle up and venture outside – yes, even if it’s chilly! Feel the fresh air fill your lungs. Watch the winter sky. Let nature remind you that life extends far beyond our digital walls.
To our entire FocusQuest community: may your holiday season be filled with moments of joy, warm embraces from family, and the kind of rest that renews your spirit. You’ve earned this break – make it count.
Here’s to finishing strong and embracing the peace that follows!
Ndala M. Booker, Ed.D.
Chief Student Success Officer
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Embarking on a "Quest for Success" with FocusQuest's New Course
- December 5, 2023
In a bid to empower the next generation with essential life skills, FocusQuest has recently unveiled its latest educational offering – the “Quest for Success” course. Excitement surrounds the more than 50 middle school students who have embarked on this transformative journey, which kicked off in the month of October.
Expanding our Reach: FocusQuest is extending its educational impact beyond higher education.
We now proudly offer courses that leverage our expertise to bring about positive change in middle and high school education, as well as lifelong learning beyond college and higher education. Acknowledging the crucial role of establishing a robust foundation for academic and personal success during these formative years, we are delighted to introduce our latest educational offering – the “Quest for Success” course.
What Does the Course Entail?
The “Quest for Success” course is a comprehensive program comprising eight modules that delve into the fascinating realm of critical thinking. Each module addresses key aspects crucial for a student’s academic journey, including topics such as “Discovering Yourself as a Student,” “Time Management,” “Study Skills,” “Test-Taking Strategies,” and practical applications of critical thinking.
Featuring an In-depth 90-Page Booklet by the FQ Team
As an integral part of the course, participants receive a 90-page booklet meticulously crafted by the FocusQuest team. This comprehensive resource serves as a guide throughout the program, providing additional insights, exercises, and valuable information to complement the module content.
Why is it Crucial for Middle School Students?
The foundation for academic and personal success is laid during the formative years of middle school. Recognizing this pivotal stage, “Quest for Success” aims to equip young minds with indispensable skills. Critical thinking, time management, and effective study habits take center stage in this course. These skills not only contribute to academic excellence but also prepare students for the challenges that lie ahead.
An Investment in the Future
Enrolling in “Quest for Success” is more than just participating in a course – it’s an investment in the future. FocusQuest believes in shaping well-rounded, thoughtful, and high-achieving individuals. By providing middle school students with the tools they need to navigate both academia and life, FocusQuest is paving the way for a generation of individuals poised for success.
As we witness the commencement of “Quest for Success” in the month of November, we anticipate the positive impact it will have on the lives of these middle school students, fostering a community of learners who are not just academically adept but also equipped with the skills to thrive in the complexities of life. Explore the full spectrum of our courses offerings and set the stage for academic excellence and students’ personal growth: FocusQuest Courses.
#education #course #academicskills
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The Future of Education: Embracing Online Learning
- November 8, 2023
In today’s ever-evolving world, education is undergoing a radical transformation. Traditional brick-and-mortar institutions are no longer the sole source of knowledge and skills. Online learning, often known as e-learning or digital education, is reshaping the educational landscape. The future of education now largely rests on online learning. In this piece, we’ll delve into what online learning means, how it bridges gaps in education, and the critical areas for future development.
Online learning effectively addresses several critical gaps in the traditional education system:
- Accessibility: It eliminates geographical barriers, democratizing education for those in remote or underserved areas.
- Flexibility: Online learning provides unprecedented flexibility, catering to modern learners’ diverse needs and schedules.
- Cost-Efficiency: Online courses are often more cost-effective, with savings on commuting, housing, and living expenses, and abundant free educational content available online.
- Personalization: It allows a high degree of personalization through adaptive technology and data analytics, tailoring course content to individual student needs.
- Lifelong Learning: Online learning encourages lifelong learning, enabling adults to acquire new skills and switch careers.
- Global Perspective: It fosters a global perspective by facilitating interaction with peers and instructors from diverse backgrounds.
As online learning becomes integral to the future of education, there are several key areas deserving attention:
- Quality Assurance: Rigorous course development and evaluation processes are vital to establish trust and credibility. Accreditation bodies need to adapt to online learning and set digital-era standards.
- Pedagogical Innovation: Instructors must learn to engage students in an online environment through interactive and participatory techniques.
- Digital Literacy: Both students and educators must develop digital literacy to ensure a smooth online learning experience.
- Access to Technology: Bridging the digital divide is essential, making technology more affordable and accessible, particularly in underserved communities.
- Student Support Services: Online students require additional support services to prevent feelings of isolation or being overwhelmed.
- Lifelong Learning Frameworks: Education systems should adapt to promote lifelong learning, recognizing its value throughout one’s career.
- Credentialing and Recognition: Employers and institutions should recognize the legitimacy of online qualifications and create transparent credentialing processes.
- Collaboration and Networking: Online learning fosters virtual study groups, online communities, and global collaborations.
FocusQuest offers comprehensive solutions for institutions looking to implement online learning effectively. Our expertise in course development, quality assurance, and digital pedagogy can empower institutions to lead the way in the education of the future.
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Puma Illustrates the Power of Black Excellence (We're Legends)
“We Are Legends” is PUMA’s new storytelling and product developing platform celebrating Black excellence and cultural impact.
The collection seeks to honor the Black creatives trailblazing influence on cultural progression around the globe and strives to empower and amplify the voices of our Black community—our legends. Championed and led by an internal collective of Black designers, the name, “We Are Legends,” reminds us to celebrate the now in Black culture and not just the rich history of past. The “We Are Legends” mission is to both increase representation within the design industry and drive real change within the very communities we are celebrating. The collective established a three-pillar model to ensure this initiative is making a tangible impact over time through donation, awareness, and community. Through “We Are Legends,” PUMA aims to be the brand that fights for representation in the design industry and the world.
“The name, We Are Legends, comes from the idea of celebrating the now in Black culture. Often when we celebrate Black culture, we look to the past. However, our collective wanted to help change this narrative
by empowering people to speak up in their most authentic voices now, to create their own legacy that will be legendary,” said Ariel Weeks, chair of the PUMA B-Bold ERG and footwear merchandising manager.
“WE ARE LEGENDS SHINES THE LIGHT ON BOTH THE LEGACY OF THIS DESIGN COLLECTIVE AND THE LEGENDS WITHIN THEIR OWN COMMUNITIES.”
“I am extremely proud to introduce the world to We Are Legends, a collective of Black designers who are a prime example of when employees step up to drive and be the change that they want to see. This first collection within the We Are Legends platform, The Yard, is a homage to the spirit of the beloved HBCU experience and a celebration of Black excellence.”
“The goal of We Are Legends is to not only tell stories that are authentic and highlight the beautiful aspects of Black culture, but through this platform PUMA will aim to lead the charge in activating the next generation of Black creatives through building early awareness and providing accessibility to roles in this industry via strategic partnerships, mentorship, and education,” said Michelle Marshall, director, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (PUMA North America).
The debut collection within the We Are Legends platform, “The Yard,” is inspired by Homecoming–a tradition in many high schools and colleges in the United States where they welcome back former students and members. The collection features men’s and women’s apparel in a bright palette of maroon, purple, and orange. Designs use material mixing and multi-placed collegiate graphics that unify schools, yard culture, and heritage. PUMA classics like the Suede are revamped with modern accents, shapes, and a neo-archival head-to-toe style. Design details references styles worn by HBCU students in the past and currently, capturing the culture’s deep history and honoring their contributions to American style.
“The Yard,” the first collection under the We Are Legends platform will release globally on Oct. 1, 2022, on the PUMA app and at the New York City Flagship store. On Oct. 3, 2022, the collection will be available on PUMA.com and select retailers worldwide with a retail price range of $40 to $120.
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IBM Teams with 20 HBCUs to Address Cybersecurity Talent Shortage
20 HBCUs will work with IBM to establish Cybersecurity Leadership Centers, giving students and faculty access to IBM training, software, and certifications at no cost.
During the National HBCU Week Conference convened by the U.S. Department of Education and the White House, IBM (NYSE: IBM) announced its collaboration with 20 Historically Black College and Universities (HBCUs) to help them establish Cybersecurity Leadership Centers.
With 500,000 unfilled cybersecurity jobs in the U.S., the need for expertise is critical: According to a recent IBM Security study, insufficiently staffed organizations average $550,000 more in breach costs than those that state they are sufficiently staffed.**
“Collaborations between academia and the private sector can help students prepare for success. That’s especially true for HBCUs because their mission is so vital,” said Justina Nixon-Saintil, Vice President, IBM Corporate Social Responsibility and ESG. “The Cybersecurity Leadership Centers we’re co-creating with Historically Black College and Universities epitomize our commitment to the Black community and STEM education; it also builds on our pledge to train 150,000 people in cybersecurity over three years.”
IBM will collaborate with the following 20 HBCUs across 11 states to co-create Cybersecurity Leadership Centers, helping to create talent for employers and opportunities for students. (Six of these collaborations were previously announced in May*)
- Alabama – Alabama A&M University, Talladega College, Tuskegee University
- Florida – Edward Waters University, Florida A&M University
- Georgia – Albany State University, Clark Atlanta University*
- Louisiana – Grambling State University, Southern University System*, Xavier University of LA*
- Maryland – Bowie State University, Morgan State University*
- Mississippi – Alcorn State University
- North Carolina – North Carolina A&T State University*, North Carolina Central University
- South Carolina – South Carolina State University*, Voorhees University
- Texas – Texas Southern University
- Virginia – Norfolk State University
- West Virginia – West Virginia State University
Through IBM’s collaboration, faculty and students at participating schools will have access to coursework, lectures, immersive training experiences, certifications, IBM Cloud-hosted software, and professional development resources, all at no cost to them. This includes access to:
Cybersecurity curricula: IBM will develop for each participating HBCU, a customized IBM Security Learning Academy portal – an IBM client offering – including courses designed to help the university enhance its cybersecurity education portfolio. In addition, IBM will continue to give access to IBM SkillsBuild.
Immersive learning experience: Faculty and students of participating HBCUs will have an opportunity to benefit from IBM Security’s Command Center, through which they can experience a highly realistic, simulated cyberattack, designed to prepare them and train them on response techniques. Moreover, HBCUs’ faculty will have access to consultation sessions with IBM technical personnel on cybersecurity.
Software: Multiple IBM Security premier enterprise security products hosted in the IBM Cloud
Professional development: Forums to exchange best practices, learn from IBM experts, and discover IBM internships and job openings
About IBM Education
As part of the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility efforts, IBM’s education portfolio takes a personalized, diverse, and deep approach to STEM career readiness. IBM’s pro bono programs range from education and support for teens at public schools and universities, to career readiness resources for aspiring professionals and job seekers. IBM believes that education is best achieved through the collaboration of the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors.
IBM SkillsBuild is a free education program focused on underrepresented communities, that helps adult learners, and high school and university students and faculty, develop valuable new skills and access career opportunities. The program includes an online platform that is complemented by customized practical learning experiences delivered in collaboration with a global network of partners. The online platform offers over 1,000 courses in 19 languages on cybersecurity, data analysis, cloud computing and many other technical disciplines — as well as in workplace skills such as Design Thinking. Most important, participants can earn IBM-branded digital credentials that are recognized by the market. The customized practical learning experiences could include project-based learning, expert conversations with IBM volunteers, mentors, premium content, specialized support, connection with career opportunities, access to IBM software, among others. As of February 2022, IBM SkillsBuild operates in 159 counties and is supporting 1.72M learners since its launch.
About IBM Security
IBM Security offers one of the most advanced and integrated portfolios of enterprise security products and services. The portfolio, supported by world-renowned IBM Security X-Force® research, enables organizations to effectively manage risk and defend against emerging threats. IBM operates one of the world’s broadest security research, development, and delivery organizations, monitors 150 billion+ security events per day in more than 130 countries, and has been granted more than 10,000 security patents worldwide. For more information, please check www.ibm.com/security, follow @IBMSecurity on Twitter or visit the IBM Security Intelligence blog.
* Announced in May 2022
** Cost of a Data Breach Report 2022, conducted by Ponemon Institute, sponsored & analyzed by IBM
Media Contact:
Ari Fishkind
IBM Media Relations
fishkind@us.ibm.com
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