From performing for Maya Angelou at age 10 to winning an Emmy for her documentary, Rondo native PaviElle French has spent her life refining a craft that blends soul, theater, and community activism
blackexcellence
Posted inOdds and Ends
Nonstop hoopster Powers gets some family time
Aerial Powers returns to the WNBA with Indiana after a family-focused break, WNBA broadcaster rankings highlight Minnesota among top teams, and four HBCU conferences unite to form the HBCU4Us Association.
Posted inOdds and Ends
Detroit welcomes back its Football Classic
The Detroit Football Classic made its long-awaited return Sept. 7, 2025, as Kentucky State topped Central State 34–24 at Ford Field. Alumni and fans celebrated with tailgates, music, and HBCU pride.
Posted inArts + Culture
Robin Hickman Winfield: a life of vision and legacy
Robin Hickman Winfield, grandniece of Gordon Parks, has spent decades uplifting youth and community through film, storytelling, and doll artistry. Now, she’s stepping into a new creative chapter of her own.
Posted inNational
Black astronaut celebrates the journey from slave ship to spaceship
Thirty years after becoming the first Black man to walk in space, Dr. Bernard Harris Jr. is headed to the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame. He continues to empower underserved youth through STEM education and outreach.
Posted inBlacklight On Sports
Coach CC James talks basketball and leadership
The latest episode of Blacklight on Sports features Coach CC James, a former St. Paul Central basketball standout and a trailblazer in Minnesota basketball. Hosted by veteran sports journalists Charles Hallman and Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonald, the podcast explores James’ journey from athlete to coach and mentor. From St. Paul Central to coaching James, a […]
Posted inBlacklight On Sports
Courtney Brown: A Legacy of Leadership On and Off the Court
Courtney Brown’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and leadership. From starring in basketball at St. Paul Highland Park to playing professionally worldwide and joining the Harlem Globetrotters, his journey didn’t stop there. Now an educator, Brown is shaping young minds as a Physical Education and Health teacher at Gordon Parks High School, proving that true impact extends far beyond the game.
Posted inBlacklight On Sports
Blacklight On Sports: Maya Aflakpi Shares Her Journey in Sports Media
The latest episode of Blacklight On Sports with Charles Hallman and Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonald shines a spotlight on an inspiring figure in sports media: Maya Aflakpi. A versatile journalist, sports broadcaster, and content creator, Maya brings a dynamic voice to the sports world, connecting audiences with impactful stories and expert insights. A University of […]