Nurturing Unity: Meet Leia Hudson

Originally published on GoDaddy Resource Library

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your career journey.

Hi, I’m Leia, Senior HR Ops Analyst based in the United Kingdom. If you’re a Star Wars fan, you guessed right—my brothers named me after Princess Leia. I’m married to my childhood sweetheart, and we have four amazing children. I love spending time with my family and friends. Living close to the countryside, I adore going for long walks and enjoying the beauty of nature.

I began my career in payroll and finance before venturing into entrepreneurship, where I co-owned and managed a business with my mother. During that period, I discovered my passion for fostering a positive work environment and supporting the growth and success of both people and businesses. I also developed a keen interest in HR and Employment law. After 11 rewarding years, we decided to close the business to explore new individual opportunities, which led me to a career in HR. While working in HR, I began seeking new job opportunities and came across a GoDaddy job advertisement that resonated with me.

“We also embrace our diverse culture and offer a range of Employee Resource Groups. Have a side hustle? No problem. We love entrepreneurs! Most importantly, come as you are and make your own way.”

I remember thinking, could this be true? A company that champions you for just being yourself? I am immensely proud to say that GoDaddy is a trustworthy workplace where every employee feels empowered to bring their authentic self to work, making it a fantastic place to be.

How do you keep yourself motivated and inspired in your work?

My biggest motivation is doing the right thing, ensuring that I incorporate and implement the GoDaddy values not only in words but more importantly in actions. Our employees are so valued, and it is imperative that they receive the correct HR information and HR support at the right time. I am part of an amazing HR team that enhances the employee experience which empowers all employees to focus on their roles and contribute to the success of our impressive entrepreneurs.

Our employees, colleagues, customers, and my family and friends inspire me. I believe we all share the same goal: to make the world a better place and to do what is right.

What has been your most significant learning experience within the past year?

My most significant learning experience has been thinking creatively to identify process improvement opportunities in our ever-evolving industry. This has not only enhanced the employee experience but also made my role more efficient, fulfilling, and rewarding. It is a genuine sense of accomplishment in achieving meaningful process improvements to our HR service delivery.

What aspects of GoDaddy’s company culture do you appreciate the most?

I deeply appreciate our GoDaddy values, especially the principle of ‘Joining Forces.’ It is always exhilarating to collaborate with my colleagues and other teams. The collective drive to achieve a common goal fosters a genuine sense of unity and support. Being a part of a global company brimming with innovative, solution-oriented individuals is truly inspiring.

How do you stay up-to-date on the latest HR trends?

I stay up to date with HR trends by subscribing to HR newsletters such as CIPD and regularly check the Acas and government websites. I’m always eager to research HR topics and employment laws to deepen my understanding, which enhances me to continue to support and protect our employees and business.

What’s your motto or personal mantra?

I love quotes, mottos, and mantras, and my latest favorite is: “I am perfectly unique and incomparable to others.” This nurturing and truthful affirmation reminds us that everyone possesses their own exceptional value.

As someone of dual heritage, born in the United Kingdom to a beautiful Jamaican mother and British father, the Jamaican national motto, “Out of many, one people,” deeply resonates with me. It symbolises the positive spirit that has emerged from an adverse history, emphasising our unity despite our differences. Working for a global company, I experience this unity every day. By sharing knowledge and experiences, we come together, broadening our understanding. This collaboration helps us find the best solutions for our employees and customers, ultimately enhancing their experience.

Are you enjoying this series and want to know more about life at GoDaddy? Check out our GoDaddy Life social pages! Follow us to meet our team, learn more about our culture (Teams, ERGs, Locations), careers, and so much more. You’re more than just your day job, so come propel your career with us.

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Conference Board Report Says 80% of Corporations Adjusting ESG Strategies

The Conference Board, a leading nonpartisan think tank providing independent research and insights to organizations worldwide, recently conducted a survey focused on how policy shifts by the new U.S. administration are reshaping the way companies approach sustainability. Our Top Story this issue details key findings of the survey, which showed 80% of companies surveyed are reworking their ESG strategies in response to the policy shifts.

The survey of 125 sustainability executives from large U.S. and multinational companies was conducted between March and April 2025. Findings: 52% of the executives said they are reworking their sustainability messaging, including moving away from the term “ESG.” They cited the reason as a backlash against ESG language and climate goals, with 90% believing that ESG backlash will persist or intensify over the next few years.

78% of executives say the primary driver of this expected backlash is U.S. federal policymakers and regulators. This marked a major shift from two years ago, when activists and advocacy groups were seen as the leading source of ESG backlash.

According to Andrew Jones, author of the report and Principal Researcher at The Conference Board, “recent policy shifts have turned up the heat on ESG, which had already been facing mounting scrutiny.” He does not believe companies will stop implementing ESG strategies but instead will make adjustments. “In most cases, the backlash hasn’t made companies back down, but rather pushed them to recalibrate how they approach, communicate, and integrate these issues into their businesses.”

Another key finding of the survey is the sharp impact that tariff turbulence is having on corporate sustainability strategies. 66% of executives are concerned that tariffs or future trade restrictions will impede sustainability goals, with 45% concerned that investments in sustainable operations will be delayed and 42% expecting cost pressures on sustainable materials.

The top challenge for corporate sustainability efforts is regulatory fragmentation, with 49% of executives citing widening gaps in the reporting requirements between state, federal and international regulators.

Jeff Hoffman, Interim Governance & Sustainability Center Leader at The Conference Board, said, “corporate ESG strategies are shifting into a more fragmented, risk-oriented phase. Global regulators and several U.S. states are advancing new standards, even as federal action slows.”

The G&A team is continuously monitoring sustainability regulations and reporting requirements at all levels and will continue to bring you the latest developments. We are available to answer questions and work with you to develop and implement strategies to adapt to the evolving and challenging landscape.For more information contact us at: info@ga-institute.com.

This is just the introduction of G&A’s Sustainability Highlights newsletter this week. Click here to view the full issue.

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Two Discovery Education Solutions Honored With 2025 SmartBrief Readers’ Choice Awards

CHARLOTTE, N.C., June 5, 2025 /3BL/ – SmartBrief on EdTech has honored two Discovery Education services in the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards. The Readers’ Choice Awards 2025 presented by SmartBrief on EdTech celebrate the companies and products making a lasting impact on the education industry. Discovery Education is the creator of essential PreK-12 learning solutions used in classrooms around the world

The 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards recognize the innovative solutions, latest technologies, and pioneering problem-solving that are changing the education landscape for the better. The following Discovery Education services were selected as winners in the Readers’ Choice Awards 2025:

DreamBox Math: Math Instruction Category

DreamBox Math by Discovery Education is a K-8 online math program that supplements core instruction in the classroom or at home and is independently proven by several third-party research organizations to increase math achievement. Updated earlier this year with a host of improvements that empower teachers to create even more personalized learning experiences, DreamBox Math by Discovery Education adapts dynamically to the learner, providing tailored instruction within a highly engaging, gamified learning environment. DreamBox Math lessons are available in both English and Spanish and are standards-aligned 

Along with actionable reporting and tools that empower differentiation for all learners, DreamBox Math offers teachers content-specific professional learning and provides administrators critical insights into student progress. With DreamBox Math, every student is empowered to independently engage in interactive problem solving so they can develop conceptual understanding, apply a variety of strategies, and gain competence and confidence in mathematical reasoning and skills. 

Career Connect:  STEM and CTE Category

Career Connect promotes student curiosity by connecting classroom learning to potential careers. Through Career Connect, educators request virtual classroom visits from industry professionals, selecting from an array of job types, industries, languages, and locations. Then, students meet with professionals from industries like biotechnology, science, finance, computer engineering, human resources, education, and more, exploring potential career pathways through these interactions.

“These awards recognize and shine light on new and existing products and solutions that impact and transform education through technology. Our readers and subscribers have selected our winners as the best of the best. Every winner should be really proud of their accomplishments – a well-deserved congratulations from the entire awards team,” said the SmartBrief on Edtech’s editorial team.

Submissions were evaluated by both industry professionals and SmartBrief readers. SmartBrief is the leading digital news service for top-level education professionals in K-12, higher education, and specialized fields. Learn more about the SmartBrief Readers’ Choice Awards here.

“We are proud to be among those honored in the Readers’ Choice Awards! Thank you to the judges and educators who voted for DreamBox Math and Career Connect by Discovery Education,” said Brian Shaw, Chief Executive Officer at Discovery Education. “Every day, our team works hard to deliver to educators the solutions that will empower students to succeed. This award is a powerful validation of this work and will inspire us to continue creating the highest quality solutions for PreK-12 classroom worldwide.” 

For more information about Discovery Education’s award-winning digital resources and professional learning solutions, visit www.discoveryeducation.com, and stay connected with Discovery Education on social media through XLinkedInInstagramTikTok, and Facebook

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About Discovery Education 
Discovery Education is the worldwide edtech leader whose state-of-the-art, PreK-12, digital solutions support learning wherever it takes place. Through award-winning multimedia content, instructional supports, innovative classroom tools, and strategic alliances, Discovery Education helps educators deliver powerful learning experiences that engage all students and support higher academic achievement on a global scale. Discovery Education serves approximately 4.5 million educators and 45 million students worldwide, and its resources are accessed in over 100 countries and territories. Through partnerships with districts, states, and trusted organizations, Discovery Education empowers teachers with essential edtech solutions that inspire curiosity, build confidence, and accelerate learning. Explore the future of education at www.discoveryeducation.com.

Contact
Grace Maliska
Discovery Education
Email: gmaliska@discoveryed.com

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Green Mountain Energy and Treehouse Partner to Offer Customers Affordable Option for EV Charger Installation

HOUSTON, June 5, 2025 /3BL/ – Green Mountain Energy, the nation’s longest serving renewable energy retailer, has partnered with Treehouse, a software-enabled installation platform for electrification projects including home electric vehicle (EV) charging, to make home charger installation easier and more affordable by offering discounts available exclusively for Green Mountain customers.

Green Mountain Energy customers will receive a $100 discount on their installation with Treehouse and 5% off the purchase price of a Level 2 charger. Partnering with Treehouse removes uncertainty from what can be a daunting installation process for EV owners. By leveraging proprietary technology and operating as an end-to-end platform — managing quoting and design through to permitting and installation – Treehouse delivers a delightful, streamlined experience for EV customers.

“This partnership with Treehouse is a natural extension of Green Mountain Energy’s commitment to a cleaner, more sustainable future,” said Andrea Ortega-Toledano, senior director of sustainability at Green Mountain Energy. “By offering our customers an easier and more affordable option to power their EV’s, we’re helping to drive the transition to a smarter, cleaner energy landscape—one charge at a time.”

Level 2 charging (240-volt) requires a dedicated charging station or EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment) but is significantly faster than Level 1 (120-volt) charging, adding about 25 miles of range per hour. The voltage requirements for Level 2 chargers are similar to what’s needed for an electric dryer or range. Installation costs vary based on a home’s age, panel location, existing electrical setup, and preferred charger location. Treehouse will review a home’s electrical setup and provide customers with a transparent, personalized quote for installation.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Green Mountain Energy to make home EV charging more accessible and affordable for their customers,” said Eric Owski, Co-Founder and CEO of Treehouse. “Installing a home charger is one of the biggest hurdles for new EV owners, and our collaboration removes that friction—delivering a seamless, cost-effective solution so more drivers can enjoy the benefits of fast, reliable charging at home.”

Green Mountain Energy customers can receive a free, instant estimate or learn more about the partnership with Treehouse by visiting https://treehouse.pro/greenmountainenergy.

ABOUT GREEN MOUNTAIN ENERGY COMPANY
Green Mountain Energy is the nation’s longest serving renewable energy retailer, on a mission to inspire hope and motivate action through the use of clean energy. Green Mountain Energy offers consumers and businesses the choice of cleaner electricity products from renewable sources, as well as a variety of carbon offset products and sustainable solutions for businesses. Collectively, Green Mountain Energy customers have helped avoid over 125 billion pounds of carbon dioxide to date. Green Mountain Energy is lighting the path to a brighter future by supporting the sustainable projects of nonprofits through our charitable program, Green Mountain Energy Sun Club. To learn more about Green Mountain Energy, visit greenmountainenergy.com.

ABOUT TREEHOUSE
Treehouse is a software-enabled installation platform for electrification projects. The company’s mission is to accelerate the decarbonization of the places we live and work by simplifying the electrification journey. By operating as a centralized, end-to-end partner, Treehouse helps companies – including auto retailers and manufacturers, fleet providers, utilities, and electrification hardware manufacturers – scale electrification programs nationwide and deliver seamless, delightful installation experiences for customers. Treehouse has raised more than $25M in financing to date from investors and partners including Flourish Ventures, Eaton, Veriten, MassMutual Ventures and more. To learn more about Treehouse, visit treehouse.pro.

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The Quantum Dance: Recognizing Consensus, Honoring Dissent, and Admitting Ignorance

This is the third in an 8-part series reflecting on the International Year of Quantum’s guiding principles.

Embracing the Third Principle of the International Year of Quantum

As the world celebrates the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ) in 2025, marking the centennial of Werner Heisenberg’s groundbreaking formulation of quantum mechanics, we find ourselves standing at a fascinating crossroads between scientific legacy and future potential. Among the guiding principles that shape this global initiative, the third principle — “Recognize Consensus, Honor Dissent, and Admit Ignorance” —emerges as perhaps the most profound reflection of not just quantum science itself, but of the scientific endeavor as a whole.

Quantum Leaps

There is something deliciously appropriate about applying this principle to quantum science—a field that has, from its inception, challenged our most fundamental assumptions about reality. Just as quantum particles exist in states of superposition until measured, our understanding of quantum phenomena exists in a perpetual dance between what we collectively agree upon, what remains contested, and the vast expanse of what we have yet to comprehend.

When Heisenberg developed his mathematical formulation of quantum mechanics in 1925, focusing solely on observable relationships rather than theoretical constructs that could not be measured, he set in motion a transformation in physics that continues to reverberate through our technological landscape a century later. Yet even as quantum mechanics has become one of the most successful scientific theories ever developed — powering everything from the transistors in our computers to MRI machines in hospitals—it remains a realm where consensus, dissent, and acknowledged ignorance coexist in productive tension.

Recognizing Consensus: The Common Ground

Scientific consensus represents the accumulated weight of evidence and theoretical understanding that has survived rigorous scrutiny. In quantum science, there exists robust consensus on the mathematical framework that allows us to make astonishingly accurate predictions about quantum systems. The Standard Model of particle physics, quantum electrodynamics, and the principles of quantum computation all represent areas where sufficient evidence and theoretical coherence have established a common ground for further exploration.

Recognizing consensus is not about declaring absolute truth but about acknowledging the solid foundation upon which we build our expanding understanding. It represents the collaborative achievement of generations of scientists who have contributed to a coherent body of knowledge that works — that makes predictions which align with experimental results to extraordinary precision.

But the spirit of the IYQ’s third principle suggests something more nuanced than merely listing established facts. It invites us to recognize consensus as a dynamic, evolving state — one that provides essential stability while remaining open to refinement, extension, and occasional revolution.

Honoring Dissent: The Seeds of Tomorrow

If consensus provides the stable ground of quantum science, dissent offers the fertile soil from which new insights grow. Throughout the history of quantum physics, principled dissent has played a vital role in refining and extending our understanding. From Einstein’s famous resistance to quantum indeterminacy (“God does not play dice”) to ongoing debates about quantum interpretation, dissent has prevented premature closure of scientific questions.

Honoring dissent means creating space for alternative viewpoints that challenge the mainstream — not out of contrarianism, but out of genuine scientific curiosity and commitment to following evidence wherever it leads. It means acknowledging that today’s fringe theory might become tomorrow’s new consensus, just as quantum theory itself once occupied the scientific periphery.

In the quantum realm particularly, where multiple interpretations of the same mathematical formalism can lead to identical experimental predictions, honoring dissent acknowledges the philosophical dimensions of scientific inquiry. The Copenhagen, Many-Worlds, Pilot Wave, and other interpretations of quantum mechanics represent not failures of consensus but a rich ecosystem of thought that keeps quantum science intellectually vibrant and philosophically engaged.

Admitting Ignorance: The Wellspring of Discovery

Perhaps the most courageous aspect of the third principle is its explicit embrace of ignorance. In an era where experts often feel pressure to project certainty, admitting the boundaries of our knowledge represents an act of intellectual honesty that ultimately serves scientific progress.

Quantum science abounds with acknowledged unknowns: How do we reconcile quantum mechanics with general relativity? What is the true nature of quantum gravity? How does quantum coherence relate to consciousness? What are the ultimate limits of quantum computing? These questions remain open not because of insufficient effort but because they probe the very frontiers of human understanding.

Admitting ignorance is not an admission of failure but a recognition of opportunity. It maps the fertile territories awaiting exploration and prevents the premature closure of inquiry that can occur when we pretend to know more than we do. Paradoxically, by embracing what we don’t know, we open ourselves to discovering what we couldn’t previously imagine.

The Third Principle in Practice

As we celebrate the International Year of Quantum in 2025, this third principle offers practical guidance for how we might engage with quantum science and technology:

  • For scientists, it suggests a balanced approach that builds upon established knowledge while remaining open to revision, challenges mainstream views constructively, and clearly communicates the boundaries between what is well-established, what remains contentious, and what lies beyond current understanding.
  • For educators, it provides a framework for teaching quantum concepts that honors both the power of current models and their inevitable limitations, helping students navigate the tension between mastering established knowledge and cultivating the creativity needed to transcend it.
  • For policymakers and industry leaders, it offers a nuanced perspective that can inform decisions about quantum technology investments—encouraging confidence in well-established applications while maintaining appropriate humility about more speculative possibilities.
  • For the general public, it presents quantum science not as an intimidating monolith of esoteric certainties, but as an accessible, ongoing human adventure in which everyone can participate through curiosity, questioning, and wonder.

Beyond Quantum: A Principle for Our Time

While particularly resonant for quantum science, “Recognize Consensus, Honor Dissent, and Admit Ignorance” offers wisdom that extends far beyond this specific domain. In an era of polarization where knowledge claims are increasingly weaponized in cultural and political conflicts, this principle offers a middle path—one that values collective knowledge achievement without dogmatism, that respects challenge without cynicism, and that acknowledges limitation without despair.

As we stand at the threshold of quantum technologies that promise to transform computing, communication, medicine, and energy, this principle reminds us that our greatest scientific achievements have always emerged from a delicate balance—between what we collectively affirm, what we productively question, and what we honestly acknowledge we have yet to understand.

In this centennial year of quantum mechanics, as we celebrate the remarkable journey from Heisenberg’s mathematical breakthrough to today’s quantum technologies, perhaps the most fitting tribute to the quantum pioneers is to embrace this principle fully—recognizing the consensus they helped build, honoring the dissent that refined their insights, and admitting the vast ignorance that still awaits illumination by generations to come.

For in that balanced approach, we don’t just honor quantum’s past — we create the conditions for its future to flourish in ways we can scarcely yet imagine.

Start Your Quantum Journey with Keysight

Keysight’s strategic collaborations, specialized test and measurement solutions, quantum control systems, and quantum system design software tools are advancing progress in quantum computing research and commercialization. You can tap into expert insights and learn more about the tools driving quantum research forward by exploring Keysight Learn. Challenge yourself by enrolling for expert-led quantum bootcamps or exploring the growing library of quantum resources to expand your knowledge of this dynamic, emerging technology space.

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CougarD Redefines Mature Women’s Emotional Empowerment: Tech-Driven Platform Catalyzes Intergenerational Connection

2025 Report Highlights 62% of Female Users Rediscover Confidence, with Matching Efficiency 40x Higher Than Traditional Platforms

WASHINGTON, June 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — CougarD, a leading intergenerational social platform, today released its 2025 Mature Women’s Social Empowerment Report, uncovering how the platform is empowering mature women to reimagine their social connections and emotional well-being in today’s digital era. As global internet usage among women aged 50+ grows at 28% annually, CougarD pioneers a niche where life experience isn’t just valued—it’s the currency of connection, challenging ageist norms in digital dating. Key findings include a 75% Q1 increase in female VIP memberships and a 47% surge in high-income women (earning $300K+ annually), with 69% holding executive or entrepreneurial roles.

I. Mature Women’s Self-Discovery: Insights from User Feedback

Data from CougarD‘s annual user survey reveals a powerful narrative of self-empowerment among mature women. When asked about their experience on the platform, respondents highlighted:

* 62% reported feeling “a renewed sense of confidence, comparable to their younger years,” with many citing the platform’s focus on intellectual compatibility and life experience.

73% identified “professional expertise and life wisdom” as their most attractive qualities to others, shifting the focus from age to personal growth.

Representative Feedback from Surveys:

* “For the first time, I’m being seen for my career achievements and the stories I’ve lived, not just my age,” shared a 52-year-old financial industry user from Los Angeles.

* A 58-year-old entrepreneur from Chicago noted, “The connections I’ve made here are rooted in mutual respect. We discuss business strategies, life transitions, and what it means to thrive at any age.”

II. Cultural Shift: Redefining Attraction in the Digital Age

The report aligns with broader sociological trends, as 68% of mature women on CougarD opt to highlight professional achievements, philanthropic endeavors, or creative pursuits in their profiles, versus traditional dating platforms’ focus on physical appearance. As one survey respondent noted, “I’m not here to fit a stereotype—I’m here to connect with people who see the depth of who I am.”

III. Technology Redefining Connection: Quality Over Quantity

CougarD’s proprietary Wisdom Resonance Algorithm™ analyzes 300+ dimensions—including values, life stages, and interests—to deliver meaningful matches. With an 89% accuracy rate, the platform achieves a first-match success rate 35% higher than industry averages.

Key Metrics:

* Matching Efficiency: Users find 8 compatible profiles per 10 swipes, compared to just 2 per 100 swipes on traditional platforms.

* High-Value Community: Of the $300K+ female users, 69% hold leadership positions in finance, tech, and entrepreneurship.

Male User Perspectives:

* “Dating a mature woman on CougarD means having conversations that challenge my thinking. When she dissected my startup’s revenue model, I knew I’d found someone who matches my ambition,” shared a 32-year-old tech founder from New York City.

* A 29-year-old financial analyst from San Francisco noted, “I used to waste hours swiping on apps with little result. On CougarD, 8 out of 10 profiles intrigue me. It’s efficient, authentic, and refreshing.”

IV. Safety and Empowerment: A Female-Centric Ecosystem

CougarD prioritizes user safety and agency through:

1. Triple Verification: All female profiles undergo rigorous real-time video verification, manual review, and IP checks to ensure authenticity.

2. Female-Initiated Model: Features like “Wink Message” require female consent before messages can be sent, putting women in control of interactions.

3. Community-Driven Growth: “Hot Moments” has connected over 5,000 young professionals with mature female leaders, fostering experience-sharing and emotional engagement.

Surveys show 89% of female users appreciate the platform’s safety features, with one respondent stating, “The triple verification gives me peace of mind, and the ability to control when I start a conversation is a game-changer.” Another highlighted, “The ‘Moments’ feature lets me share my journey authentically, and the responses from younger users remind me how valuable my perspective is.”

V. Join the Movement: Where Experience Meets Authenticity

For mature women ready to embrace their power and young men seeking meaningful connections, CougarD offers a vision of dating beyond age stereotypes.

To Mature Women:

“Your story deserves to be heard. Join CougarD and step into a community where your wisdom is your greatest asset.”

To Young Men:

“Tired of superficial swiping? Discover 8 quality matches in 10 swipes—women who inspire, challenge, and grow with you.”

About CougarD

As a pioneering global social platform, CougarD sparks meaningful connections between mature women and younger men, fostering authentic relationships rooted in mutual curiosity and shared life goals. Through advanced algorithms, safety-first features, and community-driven initiatives, the platform empowers users to build relationships rooted in mutual respect and shared purpose. Visit https://www.cougard.net/ to learn more.

Note: All user quotes are anonymized and derived from CougarD’s 2025 user survey, which polled 10,000+ platform users. Data reflects responses from verified female users aged 50+.

 

Cision View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cougard-redefines-mature-womens-emotional-empowerment-tech-driven-platform-catalyzes-intergenerational-connection-302473015.html

SOURCE CougarD

Saint-Gobain Video Series: Success in the Making: Kris Skipper

With CertainTeed Insulation in Athens, Georgia, Maintenance Supervisor Kris Skipper found a company that gives him opportunities to grow and learn every day.

Saint-Gobain is an industry leader with thousands of talented team members who are dedicated to one unified purpose: Making the World a Better Home. With more than 160 manufacturing facilities throughout the United States and Canada, there are so many robust and fulfilling career opportunities available. You’ll have the opportunity to work with colleagues from a wide range of businesses, cultures, and experiences.

About Success in the Making

Anyone can be a manufacturer! Whether you are just starting out or transitioning your career path, the manufacturing industry presents opportunities for success. Saint-Gobain North America’s Success in the Making series features the stories of team members who built their careers in manufacturing and thrived!

Watch the full Success in the Making series on YouTube.

About Saint-Gobain

Worldwide leader in light and sustainable construction, Saint-Gobain designs, manufactures and distributes materials and services for the construction and industrial markets. Its integrated solutions for the renovation of public and private buildings, light construction and the decarbonization of construction and industry are developed through a continuous innovation process and provide sustainability and performance. The Group, celebrating its 360th anniversary in 2025, remains more committed than ever to its purpose “MAKING THE WORLD A BETTER HOME”.

€46.6 billion in sales in 2024 
More than 161,000 employees, locations in 80 countries 
Committed to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050 

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Planting Roses in China’s Desert: Romance and Beyond

BEIJING, June 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A news report from China.org.cn on China’s cause of environmental protection:

 

Recently, flowers have begun to bloom in China’s Taklimakan Desert, once known as the “Sea of Death”.

In full bloom were the 100,000 rose saplings planted last November in the final stretch of the Taklimakan “enclosure” project. Though delicate in appearance and swaying in the fierce desert winds, the roses turned out to be a highly drought-tolerant and adaptive variety. They were bred and grafted for these extreme conditions, deeply anchoring their roots beneath the sands and helping to stabilize and bind the shifting soil.

A 3,046-kilometer “green scarf” now encircles the shifting sea of sand, while the rose blossoms have added a touch of romance to it.

Comparing satellite images from 2014 and 2024, the difference is striking: growing expanses of greenery are now lighting up the once dull yellow desert. By the end of 2024, more than 17.25 million mu (1.15 million hectares) of man-made forest have been added in China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, consisting of 2 billion trees planted by hand. If the trees were planted at one-meter intervals, they could encircle the earth nearly 50 times. Statistics also show that China has effectively rehabilitated 53% of its reclaimable desertified land.

The success of China’s desertification governance is not only evident in the greening of the sands and the reduction of sand storms; it is also benefiting local livelihoods. For example, in Yutian County, where desert roses are widely planted, a diversified and integrated industry has materialized: More than 30 types of rose-based products, including rose hydrosol, rose tea, and rose-infused cosmetics enjoy a vast domestic market; the industry has created a wealth of jobs, while local tourism is also thriving — after all, blooming roses in a desert is a must-see wonder for tourists.

By virtue of the unique desert climate, green energy is now being steadily generated. The process begins with straw checkerboard grids being laid to “contain” the shifting sands. Then, photovoltaic panels are installed in precise angles, forming upright “sand barriers” that also allow them to generate clean energy while shading the plants growing beneath. The water used to clean the panel components is also repurposed for irrigation to sustain patches of greenery. Such model of “clean power generation above and sand stabilization underneath” has been commended by the UNEP as “an innovative solution”.

Today, China’s philosophy and practices in ecological protection are profoundly influencing the rest of the world. In the recent two decades, China contributed more than a quarter of the world’s new afforestation area, ranking first globally. China also leads the world in plastic waste recycling. Under the South-South cooperation framework, China has actively supported biodiversity protection efforts in developing nations, bringing positive changes to more than 80 countries…

A sound ecosystem is essential for the prosperity of civilization. As we mark the 54th World Environment Day today, the planet continues to be jeopardized by multiple environmental crises, and the road to protection remains long and challenging. We hope more and more people will join the cause of environmental protection, and commit to doing their bit to build harmony between humanity and nature.

China Mosaic 
http://www.china.org.cn/video/node_7230027.htm
Planting Roses in China’s Desert: Romance and Beyond
http://www.china.org.cn/video/2025-06/05/content_117912475.shtml 

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/planting-roses-in-chinas-desert-romance-and-beyond-302474175.html

SOURCE China.org.cn

Enterprise Community Partners Receives $300,000 Grant From KeyBank To Support the Rocky Mountain Resilience Program

DENVER, June 5, 2025 /3BL/ — KeyBank has awarded a $300,000 grant to Enterprise Community Partners (Enterprise) to help disadvantaged households in Colorado and Utah remain safely, stably and affordably housed through low-income housing options that are healthy and sustainable. 

The KeyBank grant builds on the momentum of Enterprise’s Rocky Mountain Resilience Academy, expanding hands-on support for housing partners in Colorado and Utah to advance their development and organizational goals. It will also help affordable housing providers access new federal, state, and local funding—positioning them to launch projects that reduce carbon emissions and boost community resilience. 

“Enterprise’s mission is to make home and community​​ places of pride, power and belonging, and platforms for resilience and upward mobility for all,” said Chris Picardi, KeyBank Colorado market president. “This mission aligns perfectly with KeyBank’s vision of investing to protect the environment, and we are honored to support this program with our grant.” 

The Rocky Mountain Resilience Academy – initially launched in 2023– offers affordable housing owners and operators access to training, tools, peer learning, technical assistance, and grants needed to achieve their program goals.

“Low-income and historically under-resourced communities are hit hardest by energy burdens and climate events. If we don’t act now to make affordable housing more resilient and energy-efficient, these families will face rising costs and housing instability,” Enterprise VP and Rocky Mountain Market Leader Jennie Rodgers said. “This grant provides affordable housing providers much-needed support to protect the health and wellbeing of their residents and communities.”

About Enterprise Community Partners

Enterprise is a national nonprofit that exists to make a good home possible for the millions of families without one. We support community development organizations on the ground, aggregate and invest capital for impact, advance housing policy at every level of government, and build and manage communities ourselves. Since 1982, we have invested $80.9 billion and created 1 million homes across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands – all to make home and community places of pride, power and belonging. Join us at enterprisecommunity.org.

About KeyCorp
In 2025, KeyCorp celebrates its bicentennial, marking 200 years of service to clients and communities from Maine to Alaska. To learn more, visit KeyBank Heritage CenterHeadquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, Key is one of the nation’s largest bank-based financial services companies, with assets of approximately $189 billion at March 31, 2025.  Key provides deposit, lending, cash management, and investment services to individuals and businesses in 15 states under the name KeyBank National Association through a network of approximately 1,000 branches and approximately 1,200 ATMs. Key also provides a broad range of sophisticated corporate and investment banking products, such as merger and acquisition advice, public and private debt and equity, syndications and derivatives to middle market companies in selected industries throughout the United States under the KeyBanc Capital Markets trade name. For more information, visit https://www.key.com/. KeyBank Member FDIC. 

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Mary Kay Ash Foundation® Remains Committed to Protecting Women – Starting at Conference on Crimes Against Women

Nearly 1 in 3 women will experience rape or attempted rape in their lifetime—a heartbreaking statistic that’s even higher among women of color and Indigenous communities, according to the Conference on Crimes Against Women (CCAW).

This month, the CCAW marked its 20th anniversary in Dallas, bringing together attendees from all 50 states and three countries. For the 18th consecutive year, the Mary Kay Ash Foundation® is honored to support this powerful gathering. It’s an event that unites thousands of people on the front lines—first responders, law enforcement, advocates, faith leaders, campus safety officers, nurses, legal professionals, child protective services (CPS) workers, tribal leaders, and more—who are all working together to end violence against women and change that statistic.

“Since 2006, the Mary Kay Ash Foundation’s unwavering support has made it possible for the Conference on Crimes Against Women to provide premier training for professionals addressing violent crimes against women,” said Becky Park, Executive Director of the Conference on Crimes Against Women. “This partnership ensures that frontline responders are equipped with practical tools and strategies they can implement in their communities—ultimately enhancing prevention, improving responses, and driving meaningful change.”

Attendees had access to over 250 comprehensive workshops, case studies and hands-on computer labs taught by experts that addressed important topics from forensic nursing and campus safety to stalking, trafficking and technology-enabled abuse. They learned the latest technology to prevent these crimes, heard stories from diverse voices across the field, shared knowledge and collaborated on strategies to address underlying issues that make women unsafe. Most importantly, they walked away with actionable learnings to truly make a difference in this fight.

One of the most moving moments came during the keynote session, featuring Nichole Schmidt and Tara Petito of the Gabby Petito Foundation. After losing Gabby to intimate partner violence, they turned their grief into action, creating a foundation focused on awareness, prevention, and support for missing persons. Their conversation, moderated by retired police chief Tom Tremblay, deeply resonated with everyone in the room.

“The Conference on Crimes Against Women is vital to ending domestic violence—its impact echoes far beyond Dallas,” said Anne Crews, Board Member of the Mary Kay Ash Foundation. “This work directly supports our mission to create a safer world for women. We are honored to stand alongside an organization that turns awareness into action and brings life-saving resources to individuals, families, and communities everywhere. This is a crisis that affects us all—and together, we are rising to meet it.”

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About Mary Kay

One of the original glass ceiling breakers, Mary Kay Ash founded her dream beauty brand in Texas in 1963 with one goal: to enrich women’s lives. Learn more at marykayglobal.com. Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, or follow us on X.

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