FunTimes Magazine

The nation’s historically Black college and universities (HBCUs) play critical role in the economic mobility of African Americans. These institutions were created during the 1800s, at a time when educating Black students was not encouraged in this country.

Aiisha Herring-Miller is a native of Harrisburg, PA and has lived in Philadelphia, PA, since 1998. For 16 years, Aiisha has worked for the City of Philadelphia focusing on community and economic development initiatives. She is currently the Director, Economic Development Zones for the Department of Commerce. She is responsible for leading efforts for the Empowerment Zone’s legacy program, the Neighborhood Funding Stream, a $31 million endowment that provides resources for commercial and industrial development, business development, financial literacy, and job creation.

Cherri Gregg is the community affairs reporter for KYW Newsradio 1060. Cherri has a B.S. from Boston University, a J.D. from Howard University School of Law and a M.J. from Temple University’s College of Communications and Theater. She is the past president of the Philadelphia Association of Black Journalists and is a member of the Pennsylvania and Georgia Bars.

Councilwoman Cherelle L. Parker proudly serves the Ninth Council District in Philadelphia, which stretches through northwest and northeast communities including East Mt. Airy, East and West Oak Lane, Olney, Lawncrest, Lawndale, Burholme and Oxford Circle. As chair of Council’s Labor and Civil Service Committee, Cherelle is working to ensure that all workers have financial security in their retirement. She is also focused on addressing deteriorating infrastructure and an overall lack of investment in middle neighborhoods, illustrating her passion for stabilization and home preservation