The Church of Jesus Christ strengthens global effort, doubling initial projections, helping improve the lives of more than 21 million women and children worldwide

SALT LAKE CITY , June 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As part of its ongoing responsibility to care for those in need, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is bolstering its global initiative to improve the well-being of women and children.

During meetings on Temple Square in Salt Lake City, Utah, on Thursday, June 5, 2025, Relief Society General President Camille N. Johnson told representatives from eight global humanitarian organizations that the Church is donating another US$63.4 million to this worldwide project first announced in 2023.

Last year, the Church announced a $55.8 million donation as part of this effort.

“Collaboration remains at the heart of this initiative; we create the greatest impact through our united efforts. Together, we look forward to another year of creating healthier futures for women and children and strengthening communities,” President Johnson said.

During the gathering, representatives shared key results from 2024, highlighting significant progress:

  • 21.2 million children and mothers received vitamins.
  • 1.87 million children were screened for malnutrition and treated if needed.
  • 1.6 million mothers were trained in nutrition best practices.
  • 219,000 pregnant mothers received prenatal care.
  • 141,000 families received seeds, training or now have home gardens with more nutrient-dense foods.
  • 41,000 people were trained in improved hygiene behaviors.
  • 17,000 government health workers were trained to support maternal and newborn care, child nutrition, breastfeeding, and the administration of vitamins.
  • 6,800 people benefited from improved water and sanitation facilities.
  • 159 newborns were resuscitated at birth.
  • 125 health facilities were trained to track clinical cases of malnutrition and provide treatment.

The Church has taken a leadership role in convening eight globally recognized nonprofits, and as part of four groups, each focused on projects benefiting women and children. These organizations are: CARE International, Catholic Relief Services (CRS), Helen Keller Intl, iDE, MAP International, Save the Children, The Hunger Project, and Vitamin Angels.

The four groups and their areas of focus and objectives are as follows

  • Group 1: Helen Keller Intl, Vitamin Angels, iDE

    Objective: Increase access to nutritious foods, vitamins, and medications in 12 countries (Bangladesh, Cambodia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ghana, Kenya, Mali, Nepal, Nigeria, Philippines, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Zambia).

  • Group 2: CRS, The Hunger Project, MAP International

    Objective: Improve maternal newborn care, water, sanitation, and hygiene, and nutrition in Ghana.

  • Group 3: Save the Children, MAP International

    Objective: Improve maternal newborn care and nutrition in Sierra Leone and Zambia.

  • Group 4: CARE, iDE, MAP International
    Objective: Improve agriculture and nutrition and upgrade medical clinics in Nepal.

“With our global reach, we are uniquely positioned to foster collaboration among these eight organizations. By leveraging our individual strengths and resources, we amplify our collective impact,” said Blaine Maxfield, managing director of Welfare and Self-Reliance Services. “What a blessing it is to come together to serve God’s children around the world.”

The announcement of new funding was part of activities, including an expert panel discussion scheduled for later in the day on Thursday, June 5, led by Bishop L. Todd Budge, Second Counselor in the Church’s Presiding Bishopric. The panel focused on health and nutrition for women and children.

The panelists were President Camille Johnson, Blaine Maxfield, Sharon Eubank (director of Church Humanitarian Services), Sarah Bouchie (CEO of Helen Keller Intl), Ana Céspedes (CEO of Vitamin Angels), Lizz Welch (CEO of iDE), and Abena Amedormey (Ghana country representative for CRS).

In 2023, the First Presidency asked the Relief Society to lead this global effort. President Russell M. Nelson has told women that they have a divine endowment to change lives. He said, “I am inspired by your diligence, dynamic leadership, and your ability to see a need and meet it.”

Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believe in following the Savior’s two great commandments: to love God and to love our neighbor. As part of this mandate, we seek to maximize our impact so our efforts bless not only those who receive help but also their families and communities. For more information on the Church’s effort to care for those in need, please visit the most recent “Caring for Those in Need” summary.

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SOURCE The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Boomer Family Demands Accountability Following Open-Casket Memorial for Dr. Marvin Boomer, Jr.

“We were just walking—and in an instant, everything changed.”

OAKLAND, Calif., June 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Following a powerful community memorial and open-casket viewing this afternoon at Acts Full Gospel Church in East Oakland, the family of Dr. Marvin Boomer, Jr.—a beloved educator killed during a police pursuit—is calling for full transparency, accountability, and urgent reform from law enforcement across California.

Dr. Boomer, 40, was killed on May 28 while walking with his partner, Nina Woodruff, near their Oakland home. The couple was struck by a vehicle fleeing California Highway Patrol officers. Dr. Boomer was pronounced dead at the scene. Ms. Woodruff sustained serious physical injuries and remains under medical care.

“This is not just about one family’s unimaginable loss,” said Michelle D. Bernard, a nationally recognized lawyer, political analyst, and spokesperson for the Boomer family. “This is about a growing pattern of reckless police chases over non-violent offenses that too often end in catastrophe—especially in communities of color. Marvin was doing everything right. He was walking in his own neighborhood. Public safety must mean protecting people like Marvin, not endangering them. We demand transparency. We demand accountability. We demand justice.”

On behalf of the family, Marvin’s sister, Ms. Tynesha Boomer, stated:

“My brother’s death is something I will never fully be able to put into words,” said Tynesha Boomer. “Marvin was joy. He was purpose. He was a visionary. And in the hours and days since losing him, I keep coming back to something he texted me in February. In that message, he told me what he wanted for Oakland — his city, his heart. He said he wanted community-based policing, real workforce readiness programs, hourly wages, not just stipends, youth summer programs that lasted the entire summer, not just a few weeks. He called for affordable housing and, ironically, better infrastructure — and he even put ‘potholes, etc.’ in parentheses. It breaks me to say that it was a pothole, a massive one, that the driver who took his life hit just before he struck and killed him. Marvin saw what Oakland needed  and he spoke it with clarity, love, and urgency. Now, we have to carry his vision forward. We owe him that much.”

Ms. Nina Woodruff, Marvin’s partner, who survived the crash, added:

“Seconds before impact, Marvin and I saw a police officer chasing the car—on his phone, driving recklessly through our neighborhood. We even had time to ask, ‘Is he seriously on the phone right now?’ Moments later, Marvin was gone, and I was bleeding. I’m in unimaginable pain. I ask the media and public to please respect our privacy and honor Marvin’s legacy with dignity, not headlines.”

Pastor Joseph Cottom, who led the service, offered this message:

“Marvin was a son, a scholar, and a light in this community. His death must awaken city leaders. Faith without works is dead—we must honor him not just with prayer, but with a call to justice. Oakland deserves better.”

Today’s memorial drew educators, advocates, and officials, including Mayor Barbara Lee and Assemblymember Mia Bonta. The Boomer family chose an open-casket viewing to show the devastating human cost of reckless police pursuits.

Michelle D. Bernard, Esq., President & CEO of The Bernard Center for Women, Politics & Public Policy, serves as spokesperson and legal counsel for the Boomer family and Ms. Woodruff.

All media inquiries should be directed to:
Michelle D. Bernard, Esq.
Email: mbernard@bernardcenter.org 
Phone: (301) 807-2394

Further updates will be issued solely through Ms. Bernard.

#JusticeForDrMarvinBoomerJr #SayHisName #PoliceReform #CivilRights

Contact:
Michelle D. Bernard, Esq.
President & CEO, The Bernard Center for Women, Politics & Public Policy
Email: mbernard@bernardcenter.org 
Phone: (301) 807-2394

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SOURCE The Family of Dr. Marvin Boomer, Jr.

STATEMENT OF ATTORNEY AND FAMILY SPOKESPERSON MICHELLE D. BERNARD Following Open-Casket Memorial for Dr. Marvin Boomer, Jr.

OAKLAND, Calif., June 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Good afternoon, beloved community.

We gather here today not merely in mourning, but in righteous indignation. We gather in remembrance—but also in resistance. Because a son of Oakland, a son of this nation, a brilliant Black man named Dr. Marvin Boomer, Jr., has been stolen from us.

Now I stand here today not only as an attorney, but as a sister in the struggle. I speak not only as a legal representative, but as a mother, a daughter, a woman who has seen too many families crushed under the weight of injustice. I speak with a heavy heart and a righteous fire, because Marvin Boomer, Jr. should be alive today.

He was not caught in a storm of his own making. He was not a suspect. He was not a statistic. He was a scholar, a teacher, a lover of justice, a defender of Black dignity. He was walking with his partner, Nina, when he saw death coming and put her safety before his own. He died a hero. And we will not allow that heroism to be silenced by bureaucratic excuses or policy failures cloaked in blue.

So we say his name today: Dr. Marvin Boomer, Jr.

And we will keep saying it until justice rolls down like water and righteousness like a mighty stream.

Let me be clear: had this happened in Mill Valley, or Tiburon, or Stanford, or Woodside—if this had happened on streets paved with privilege and protection—Marvin Boomer would be alive. But in East Oakland, where Black and Brown lives are too often deemed expendable, the rules were different. The pursuit policies were different. And the consequences, as always, were deadly.

This family is not only grieving—they are standing tall. They are saying enough is enough. And I am honored—deeply honored—to represent them in their pursuit of truth, accountability, and justice.

So now, I invite you to meet the voices behind the pain and the purpose:

  • His mother, a queen among women, Ms. Tina Boomer.
  • His father, steadfast and courageous, Mr. Marvin Boomer, Sr.
  • His sisters, each a beacon of strength and grace: Tynesha Boomer, Deborah Martin, and Brittany Boomer.
  • And the woman who loved him, and whose life he saved with his last breath, Ms. Nina Woodruff.

Hear them. See them. Stand with them. And say his name with us—not just today, but until justice is served.

#JusticeForDrMarvinBoomerJr
#SayHisName
#BlackLivesMatter
#NoMoreRecklessPursuits

May God bless this family. May God bless this movement. And may Dr. Marvin Boomer, Jr.’s legacy light the path forward—for all of us.

Contact:
Michelle D. Bernard, Esq.
President & CEO, The Bernard Center for Women, Politics & Public Policy
Email: mbernard@bernardcenter.org
Phone: (301) 807-2394

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SOURCE Bernard Center for Women, Politics & Public Policy

Investing in People: Gotion Illinois Supports Graduates of Local Workforce Development Program

Partnership with Calumet Area Industrial Commission prepares area residents for skills needed for modern manufacturing jobs

MANTENO, Ill., June 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Gotion Illinois, a global innovator in next-generation energy storage and batteries, welcomed 15 newly trained area residents to its manufacturing facility in Manteno. They are the first graduating class in a unique partnership that confirms Gotion’s commitment to local hiring.

The program, conducted by the Calumet Area Industrial Commission (CAIC), is designed to provide students with foundational and advanced skills in modern manufacturing processes. It emphasizes hand-on experience, safety, production systems and quality control, which are all key components of Gotion Illinois’ operation.

“Gotion Illinois is proud to collaborate with CAIC in building a strong manufacturing workforce in Manteno and the surrounding region,” said Mark Kreusel, General Manager of Gotion Illinois, “Programs like this reflect our shared commitment to creating real pathways to high-tech careers while investing in the future of the communities we call home.”

The training culminated in a graduation ceremony and plant tour, where students were recognized for their achievements. Most significantly, every graduate will have the opportunity to interview directly with Gotion Illinois for employment consideration, turning their training into potential careers.

“As CAIC continues to champion workforce development, partnerships like this illustrate the power of collaboration between community-focused organizations and forward-looking manufacturers,” said Ted Stalnos, President/CEO of CAIC. “When an employer like Gotion Illinois offers the potential for local, high-paying careers for CAIC Program Graduates, the incentive rises to meet the opportunity for our local workforce.”

Gotion Illinois is making a $2 billion investment, converting a large warehouse in Manteno into one of the most advanced energy storage and battery manufacturing facilities in the country. More than 300 are now working there, with up to 2,600 employed at full operations.

Registration for the next CAIC program begins on June 16. For more information visit the CAIC website: calumetareaindustrial.com. 

About Gotion Illinois:
Gotion Illinois is a cutting-edge energy story manufacturer, based in Manteno, Illinois. It specializes in energy storage solutions for home, industrial, transportation, and off-grid applications. With a “Local for Local” strategy, Gotion Illinois hires local talent, sources local materials and produces high-quality and innovative clean energy systems for both domestic and international markets.

About CAIC:
The Calumet Area Industrial Commission (CAIC) is a non-profit organization focused on industrial retention and expansion in the Greater Calumet Industrial Area, which covers the Far South Side of Chicago, Southern Cook County, Will County, Kankakee County and Northwest Indiana. CAIC provides programs and services in industrial advocacy, economic development, business development, workforce development and community outreach.

 

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SOURCE Gotion

Investing in People: Gotion Illinois Supports Graduates of Local Workforce Development Program

Partnership with Calumet Area Industrial Commission prepares area residents for skills needed for modern manufacturing jobs

MANTENO, Ill., June 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Gotion Illinois, a global innovator in next-generation energy storage and batteries, welcomed 15 newly trained area residents to its manufacturing facility in Manteno. They are the first graduating class in a unique partnership that confirms Gotion’s commitment to local hiring.

The program, conducted by the Calumet Area Industrial Commission (CAIC), is designed to provide students with foundational and advanced skills in modern manufacturing processes. It emphasizes hand-on experience, safety, production systems and quality control, which are all key components of Gotion Illinois’ operation.

“Gotion Illinois is proud to collaborate with CAIC in building a strong manufacturing workforce in Manteno and the surrounding region,” said Mark Kreusel, General Manager of Gotion Illinois, “Programs like this reflect our shared commitment to creating real pathways to high-tech careers while investing in the future of the communities we call home.”

The training culminated in a graduation ceremony and plant tour, where students were recognized for their achievements. Most significantly, every graduate will have the opportunity to interview directly with Gotion Illinois for employment consideration, turning their training into potential careers.

“As CAIC continues to champion workforce development, partnerships like this illustrate the power of collaboration between community-focused organizations and forward-looking manufacturers,” said Ted Stalnos, President/CEO of CAIC. “When an employer like Gotion Illinois offers the potential for local, high-paying careers for CAIC Program Graduates, the incentive rises to meet the opportunity for our local workforce.”

Gotion Illinois is making a $2 billion investment, converting a large warehouse in Manteno into one of the most advanced energy storage and battery manufacturing facilities in the country. More than 300 are now working there, with up to 2,600 employed at full operations.

Registration for the next CAIC program begins on June 16. For more information visit the CAIC website: calumetareaindustrial.com. 

About Gotion Illinois:
Gotion Illinois is a cutting-edge energy story manufacturer, based in Manteno, Illinois. It specializes in energy storage solutions for home, industrial, transportation, and off-grid applications. With a “Local for Local” strategy, Gotion Illinois hires local talent, sources local materials and produces high-quality and innovative clean energy systems for both domestic and international markets.

About CAIC:
The Calumet Area Industrial Commission (CAIC) is a non-profit organization focused on industrial retention and expansion in the Greater Calumet Industrial Area, which covers the Far South Side of Chicago, Southern Cook County, Will County, Kankakee County and Northwest Indiana. CAIC provides programs and services in industrial advocacy, economic development, business development, workforce development and community outreach.

 

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SOURCE Gotion

Seeds of Fortune Inc. and Marsai Martin Join Forces to Empower 10,000 Young Women Through Financial Education and Wealth-Building

NEW YORK, June 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Seeds of Fortune Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to the economic empowerment of youth, is proud to announce an exciting new partnership with award-winning actress and producer Marsai Martin and her Marsai’s Way Foundation. Over the next three years, the organizations aim to empower 10,000 young women through financial education and wealth-building initiatives.

This groundbreaking collaboration will officially launch at the Seed Forum: Women of Color Creating Wealth Summit, a premier event convening financial institutions, industry leaders, and aspiring young women. The summit serves as a launchpad for bold conversations and strategic solutions to close the racial and gender wealth gap—fostering a new generation of financially empowered leaders.

“At Seeds of Fortune, we believe education is the foundation of economic equity,” said Nitiya Walker, Founder & Executive Director of Seeds of Fortune Inc. “Our partnership with Marsai’s Way Foundation allows us to scale this mission and deliver financial literacy, mentorship, and career access to thousands of young women who deserve to build wealth and opportunity for themselves and their communities.”

Key components of the initiative include:

  • Wealth-Building Programs: A curriculum focused on budgeting, investing, entrepreneurship, college and career readiness.
  • Mentorship Opportunities: Young women will receive support and guidance from finance and business leaders.
  • Access to Exclusive Events: Two outstanding students will be selected to attend the Marsai’s Way Foundation Annual BBQ: Sai Summer Cookout, gaining exposure, inspiration, and networking with influential figures across finance and entertainment.

Marsai Martin, known for her groundbreaking work in television and film, created Marsai’s Way Foundation to help young people find confidence and power in their authentic selves.

“This partnership is about more than just finances—it’s about creating freedom,” said Marsai Martin, Founder of Marsai’s Way Foundation. “I want girls who look like me to know they can own their futures, build wealth, and become leaders in every room they walk into.”

Together with leading financial institutions, this initiative will provide young women with tangible tools to grow and manage wealth, pursue higher education, and launch careers across industries where women of color are often underrepresented.

About Seeds of Fortune Inc. 
Seeds of Fortune Inc. is an educational nonprofit that helps youth gain economic empowerment through college access, financial literacy, and career development. Since its founding, the organization has supported students in earning millions in scholarships and early-stage career opportunities.

About Marsai’s Way Foundation 
Marsai’s Way Foundation, founded by actress and producer Marsai Martin, empowers youth to explore their passions, lead with authenticity, and embrace mental wellness. The foundation builds safe spaces for young people to grow, learn, and thrive in creative and professional spaces.

Press Contact: 
Raven Robinson
Director of Communications
raven@pr2politics.com
www.seedsoffortune.org

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SOURCE Seeds of Fortune Inc.

LA Kings and Grades of Green Team Up To Create Vital Green Spaces for Students Through Adopt-A-School Program

AEG’s LA Kings teamed up with environmental nonprofit Grades of Green to revitalize green spaces at two schools in Inglewood, CA. The initiative sought to empower students through hands-on learning and environmental education as part of Grades of Green’s Adopt-A-School Garden Program.

On Wednesday, May 28, LA Kings employees along with volunteers from SoCalGas worked side by side with 60 students at Bennett-Kew Elementary School to transform the school’s garden into a vibrant learning environment. Before any digging took place, teams followed safety best practices by contacting 811 two business days prior to have underground utility lines marked. This important step helps prevents injuries, property damage, service disruptions, and costly fines. Throughout the day, volunteers dug, planted, and taught students about the importance of green infrastructure, how trees improve air quality, and how gardens contribute to community health.

Additionally, on Monday, June 2, LA Kings employees joined with volunteers from Farmacias Similares to revitalize a second campus garden at La Tijera K-8 School. The project kicked off with a speech from the school’s Principal Robbie Tate, who shared how the garden would serve as a vital outdoor classroom for students to explore science, sustainability, and career pathways in the environmental field. Students from grades K–8 then participated in digging, soil preparation, and vegetable and tree planting activities guided by environmental educators from Grades of Green.

“Our partnership with Grades of Green is about more than just planting gardens,” said Amanda Apel, Senior Director, Community Relations, LA Kings. “It’s about giving students a space to learn, grow, and connect with the environment. But it also gives our employees an opportunity to drive meaningful change in communities throughout Los Angeles. We’re proud to partner with organizations like Grades of Green, SoCalGas, and Farmacias Similares to make a lasting impact in our communities.”

“SoCalGas volunteers loved working alongside students of Bennett-Kew Elementary School with Grades of Green and the LA Kings to beautify their school and enrich their educational environment,” said Andy Carrasco, Vice President, Communications, Local Government and Community Affairs, SoCalGas. “It’s also an amazing moment for the students and community to learn about how to safely dig around schools, homes and businesses so that we can keep everyone safe – always call 811 before you dig.”

Grades of Green’s “Adopt-A-School” program helps create more green spaces for students and school community members to enjoy. This initiative not only provides a nurturing outdoor classroom that supports hands-on learning and career exploration in environmental sustainability and related fields but also give students the opportunity to learn about the many benefits of green spaces, including their positive impact on air quality, community health, and overall well-being.

Posted in UncategorizedTagged

Henkel Production Sites: On the Front Lines of Sustainability

From adhesives to laundry detergents to hand soaps to hair care, Henkel products are heavyweights in terms of performance. But these days, they are manufactured with less impact on the environment, thanks to ongoing efforts from employees at production sites across North America.

“Our manufacturing sites are key to Henkel’s goal to become climate positive by 2040. Our teams work tirelessly to identify new ways to conserve natural resources. Our employees want to work for a company that walks the talk on sustainability, and they are a big part of making that happen.”

Bjoern Jackisch, Henkel Adhesive Technologies Vice President of Operations & Supply Chain for the Americas region

In recognition of World Environment Day, celebrated annually on June 5, below are a handful of sustainability highlights from Henkel’s front lines.

Greenville, South Carolina

As part of Henkel’s NoWa (No Waste) initiative, the adhesives plant in Greenville, South Carolina, is saving 30,000 gallons of water and 56 tons of waste every year. Key to this success was the team’s approach using brainstorming and “waste walk” sessions eventually leading to process changes allowing for reuse of water for between-batch kettle cleans and the purges that occur when packaging begins. Additionally, the facility is transitioning to LED lighting and is using energy usage sensors, making Greenville a more energy efficient operation.

Salisbury, North Carolina

After taking a fresh look at water used in production, Henkel’s Salisbury adhesives plant updated processes to allow multiple use of caustic waste from cleanouts. Other conservation measures include eliminating flushes for compatible products, transitioning to larger mixers to reduce changeovers, and standardizing cleanouts.

Mentor, Ohio

The Mentor adhesives facility leveraged Renewable Gas Certificates (RGCs) to achieve full carbon neutrality, the first production facility in North America to reach this milestone. Organizations can purchase RGCs from renewable gas suppliers to offset the carbon emissions associated with their natural gas consumption. The Mentor team is also actively striving to implement operational efficiencies and energy-saving projects to lower the plant’s carbon footprint.

Bowling Green, Kentucky

Outside-the-box thinking helped the Bowling Green consumer brands facility achieve a 33% reduction in solid waste and significant cost savings. Previously, the plant paid to have cardboard waste recycled. Today, Bowling Green’s cardboard supplier buys back the plant’s scrap cardboard and uses it to recreate new cardboard that is resupplied to the plant.

Bay Point, California

Henkel’s Bay Point aerospace adhesive manufacturing plant significantly reduced water waste by replacing three outdated steam injection water heaters, which discharge water after one use, with efficient closed-loop systems, which recirculate water. Outside the facility, the Bay Point team replaced traditional green landscaping with drought-resistant plants and a drip irrigation system to save over 450,000 gallons of water annually and reduce maintenance costs.

Read more about Henkel North America’s efficient use of water at our North America operations facilities: Driving Sustainable Water Use in Operations

As these examples demonstrate, the teams at our production sites continue to bring Henkel’s spirit of innovation to resource conservation. Their willingness to challenge the status quo has made our site employees true pioneers in waste reduction.

Posted in UncategorizedTagged

Julie R. Smith Named Metiri Group CEO

Smith to Lead New Era of Client-Centered Growth

GENEVA, Ill., June 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Metiri Group, a leading expert and partner in environmental testing solutions, today announced the appointment of Julie R. Smith as Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. Smith has served as interim CEO since October 2024. She takes over from Cabot Earle, who now serves as Metiri Group’s Founder & Chief Strategy Officer, leading the company’s M&A strategy. 

These leadership changes complete Metiri Group’s Executive team, with Ronald Markle serving as Chief Financial Officer and Sally Cummins serving as Chief Commercial Officer. The strengthened C-Suite positions the company for continued growth and innovation.

In her new role, Smith will guide Metiri Group through a critical phase of growth and strategic transformation with a vision to unite the deep expertise of its legacy laboratory brands and rethink how laboratories and companies can work together.

“I’m honored and excited to be part of Metiri Group’s evolution as a breakout environmental testing partner,” said Smith. “This new chapter is all about helping our clients succeed. Our clients need a trusted partner who acts as an extension of their team and anticipates what’s ahead. Metiri Group is ready to deliver the data and insights they need to protect communities, comply with evolving regulations and lead with confidence.”

As CEO, Smith will elevate Metiri Group’s resources, expertise and leadership as an environmental testing partner. She will specifically focus on guiding team members to foster trust and deliver high-quality experiences at every point of the customer journey.

“This is a defining moment for Metiri Group,” said Smith. “We have a capable and energized team that is ready to align strategy and execution, drive strong organic and M&A growth and define a compelling client experience that goes beyond the transactional interactions that can be common in our industry.”

Smith has decades of leadership experience, building cultures where people thrive and connecting external engagement, client experiences and external performance. She has previously led nationally recognized organizations, including Homewatch CareGivers, Lincoln Educational Services and The Princeton Review.

“On behalf of the Board of Directors, I am excited to welcome Julie as CEO of Metiri Group. Julie is a savvy business leader with a track record of success in multi-site service companies. She has already demonstrated strong momentum at Metiri Group building upon our national network of laboratories and assembling a cohesive, high-performing team with the expertise and flexibility needed to deliver exceptional service to our clients both locally and nationwide,” said Eddie Sigman, investor at Goldman Sachs Alternatives and board member of Metiri Group.

For more information about Metiri Group, visit Metirigroup.com.

About Metiri Group

Metiri Group is a nationally recognized environmental testing laboratory specializing in air, water and soil analysis. We offer expertise in PFAS, TO-15, Incremental Sampling and wastewater treatment facilities analysis, maintenance and operations. With a focus on scientific integrity, rapid turnaround, and responsive service, we support clients across government, industry, and consulting sectors. Our accredited labs and expert team deliver actionable data to guide critical environmental decisions.

Follow Metiri Group on LinkedIn.

About Sustainable Investing at Goldman Sachs Alternatives

Goldman Sachs (NYSE: GS) is one of the leading investors in alternatives globally, with over $500 billion in assets and more than 30 years of experience. The business invests in the full spectrum of alternatives including private equity, growth equity, private credit, real estate, infrastructure, sustainability, and hedge funds. Clients access these solutions through direct strategies, customized partnerships, and open-architecture programs.

The business is driven by a focus on partnership and shared success with its clients, seeking to deliver long-term investment performance drawing on its global network and deep expertise across industries and markets.

Sustainable Investing at Goldman Sachs Alternatives seeks investments in thematic climate transition and inclusive growth opportunities by backing companies that have an impact in these two areas. The leadership and broader team bring decades of combined experience, broad investment knowledge across the sustainability landscape and a proprietary corporate network of sustainability leaders from global corporations – all supported by the broader resources of Goldman Sachs.

The alternative investments platform is part of Goldman Sachs Asset Management, which delivers investment and advisory services across public and private markets for the world’s leading institutions, financial advisors and individuals. Goldman Sachs has approximately $3.2 trillion in assets under supervision globally as of March 31, 2025.

Follow us on LinkedIn.

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SOURCE Metiri Group

Westbridge Renewable Provides Update on Normal Course Issuer Bid

TORONTO, June 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ – Westbridge Renewable Energy Corporation (TSXV: WEB), (OTCQX: WEGYF), (FRA: PUQ) (“Westbridge“, “Westbridge Renewable” or the “Company“) announced today that the TSX Venture Exchange (the “TSXV“) has approved the commencement by Westbridge Renewable of a normal course issuer bid program (the “NCIB“).

The Company wishes to clarify that the NCIB will commence on June 11, 2025 and will terminate on June 10, 2026 or on an earlier date if the maximum number of common shares sought in the NCIB has been repurchased, instead of June 9, 2025 and June 8, 2026, respectively, as previously announced.

About Westbridge Renewable Energy

Westbridge Renewable Energy Corp. originates, develops, and monetizes best-in-class, utility-scale solar PV projects. The Company has a portfolio of projects in four key jurisdictions, Canada, the U.S., the U.K., and Italy. Westbridge plans to deliver attractive, long-term returns by originating, executing, and developing an international portfolio of renewable assets for investors and utilities. Management has a strong track-record with 40+ projects developed worldwide, obtaining, and executing projects. As one of the very few listed pure-play Canadian solar development companies, Westbridge provides its investors with valuable access to greenfield solar projects. This means the Company can invest at the earliest stage of solar energy development benefiting from the full value chain, as well as the expected wider adoption of renewable energy going forward. Westbridge brings together regulators, corporate buyers, and landowners with the goal of delivering clean, sustainable electricity to end users.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain information set forth in this document contains forward-looking information and statements including, without limitation, purchases of the Shares made under the NCIB and the timing thereof, the duration of the NCIB, the management’s business strategy, management’s assessment of future plans and operations. Such forward-looking statements or information are provided for the purpose of providing information about management’s current expectations and plans relating to the future, including the duration of the NCIB, the purchases of the Shares if at all, as there is no assurance the NCIB will be completed for the full term or at all. Forward-looking statements or information typically contain statements with words such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “expect”, “plan”, “intend”, “estimate”, “propose”, “project”, “potential” or similar words suggesting future outcomes or statements regarding future performance and outlook. Readers are cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of such information may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on them as actual results may differ materially from the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include risks and uncertainties relating to Company’s ability to obtain regulatory approval or at all. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date hereof, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or information, except as required by law.

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SOURCE Westbridge Renewable Energy Corp.