Dr. Bernard E. Anderson, Ph D
Whitney M. Young Jr. Professor Emeritus, The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania
Senior Economic Advisor, National Urban League

The U.S. economy added 151,000 jobs in February, reflecting a resilient labor market, though growth has moderated.

Employment among white workers declined several thousand while white unemployment edged up.  In comparison, Black employment rose slightly while there was little change in Black unemployment. As a result, the Black/White unemployment gap declined to an unprecedented level of 1.57, down notably from the earlier 2:1 ratio, but still reflective of systemic disparities in the workforce.

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The Urban League of the Upstate (Greenville, SC) nears the completion of its $3.5 million campaign for the McClaren Institute of Health & Quality of Life. 

The local nonprofit organization is transforming the McClaren Medical Shelter in downtown Greenville into a wellness, education and outreach center for Black and underserved communities. 

“The McClaren Institute will provide essential services and inspire the community to come together and invest in long-term solutions for health and wellness,” said Gail Wilson Awan, president and CEO of Urban League of the Upstate.

After a five-year hiatus, the Urban League of Springfield’s (Springfield, MA) signature fundraising event is back in person, bringing the community together for an evening of celebration, impact, and renewed energy. The Rise Up Anniversary Celebration taking place on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at the MassMutual Center, will mark the organization’s 112th anniversary with an elevated elegant experience designed to honor the changemakers who embody its mission.

The keynote speaker, Danielle R. Holley, is the twentieth president of Mount Holyoke College. She is a noted legal scholar and educator. Holley served as Dean of the School of Law at Howard University (2014 – 2023) prior to joining Mount Holyoke. She holds a B.A. from Yale University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Holley also previously served as a law clerk to Judge Carl E. Stewart on the U.S. Courts of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit.

President and CEO, Urban League of Rochester (Rochester, NY)

Years in current role: 6

What was the most significant challenge your organization faced in 2024, and how did you address it?

The Urban League of Rochester faced the challenge of meeting growing community needs while maintaining service excellence. We conducted a strategic evaluation of our strengths and those of our partners to ensure every service was delivered at the highest level. By shifting certain programs to organizations better equipped to provide them, we strengthened the overall support system while focusing on what we do best. This decision allowed us to enhance impact and prioritize community needs. In the end, it reinforced our belief that our work is about impact, not just effort.

What trends or innovations in your industry do you anticipate having the biggest impact in 2025?

What an incredible lineup of women who are trailblazing industries and communities! Congratulations to all those who made Crain’s 2025 Women of Influence list, showcasing their extraordinary talent and ability to lead Chicagoans with passion and purpose. The women featured include: