UT Health San Antonio announces $6.5 million gift to strengthen pediatric health workforce through new Harvey E. Najim Pediatric Health Scholars Program

SAN ANTONIO, March 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — UT Health San Antonio, the academic health center of The University of Texas at San Antonio (UT San Antonio), has announced a $6.5 million gift from San Antonio philanthropist Harvey E. Najim to establish the Harvey E. Najim Pediatric Health Scholars Program to support future pediatric-focused professionals in dentistry, medicine and nursing in San Antonio and the surrounding region.

The Harvey E. Najim Pediatric Health Scholars Program will ease financial barriers during training, and will help attract and retain exceptional healthcare talent, expand access to pediatric specialty care and create lasting impact for children and their families in the San Antonio community.

The Najim Pediatric Health Scholars Program will support education and advanced training for 36 pediatric dental residents, 24 pediatric medical subspecialists and 32 pediatric nurse practitioners, expanding the pipeline of highly trained clinicians prepared to serve children and families in high-need communities. In addition, the program will fund three scholarships annually, one each in dentistry, medicine and nursing for students engaged in community service.

“A strong health workforce begins with meaningful, hands-on education,” said Najim. “Through specialized training, the Pediatric Health Scholars Program prepares students to care for children while helping meet the growing pediatric health needs across our region. By strengthening the pipeline of skilled, compassionate healthcare professionals, the program supports lasting improvements in children’s health outcomes.”

Najim has a long history of support, commitment and volunteer leadership with UT San Antonio, demonstrated through the establishment of the Najim Center for Innovation and Career Advancement, support of UTSA Athletics, giving toward student success initiatives and a long-term commitment to meeting students’ basic needs through the Roadrunner Food Pantry.

“Harvey has always believed deeply in empowering young people to thrive through education,” said President Taylor Eighmy. “His incredible generosity — now expanded to support pediatric health scholars — will have a significant impact in so many lives. We are deeply grateful for the passion and care he shows our students who will go on to care for the children throughout our community. There is no more powerful gift than to invest in the education of pediatric health care providers.”

By strengthening the pediatric workforce pipeline at UT Health San Antonio, the program is designed to expand access to timely, high-quality care for children and families in Bexar County, especially for low-income and uninsured families. The program will also increase the number of trainees entering pediatric-focused specialty pathways and strengthen recruitment into high-need pediatric disciplines.

“Harvey Najim’s generosity reflects a deep commitment to improving the health and well-being of children and families — they are our future,” said Francisco Cigarroa, MD, senior executive vice president for health affairs and health system. “This gift allows us to invest where it matters most, supporting the next generation of pediatric specialists who will care for our communities for decades to come. This transformational and innovative gift will make our children’s lives healthier and it will save lives.”

Across Texas, and especially in South Texas, shortages of pediatric dentists, pediatric medical subspecialists and pediatric nurse practitioners can delay care and place additional strain on families. The Harvey E. Najim Pediatric Health Scholars Program will directly address this challenge by providing competitive, merit-based support to residents, fellows and advanced-practice nursing students during critical training years, when educational debt and lower compensation can discourage pediatric specialization.

“The Harvey E. Najim Pediatric Health Scholars Program is a transformational investment in children’s health,” said Robert Hromas, MD, FACP, professor and dean of the Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long School of Medicine. “By supporting trainees in pediatric subspecialties, we are expanding access to expert care and strengthening the future of health for families across South Texas.” 

According to the leading health policy organization in the U.S., KFF — formerly the Kaiser Family Foundation — over 13% of Texas children were uninsured in 2024.

“Advanced Practice Registered Nurses help fill a need in the community to deliver pediatric primary care services to our most vulnerable children in Bexar County,” said Sonya R. Hardin, PhD, RN, APRN-BC, FAAN, dean of the School of Nursing. “This generous support removes barriers for nurses dedicated to pediatrict care, directly addressing the vital workforce needs for primary care across South Texas that helps change the lives of children.”

According to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and analyses of Graduate Medical Education outcomes, 58.9% of physicians who completed residency or fellowship training (GME) in Texas remained in Texas to practice, and retention increased to 86.2% among those who completed both medical school and GME in Texas between 2000 and 2019.

UT Health San Antonio’s workforce outcomes indicate that 94% of nursing (BSN) graduates, 88% of doctoral-level nursing graduates, and 64% of dental graduates remain in Texas following completion of their training. This data demonstrates that investing in Texas-based pediatric specialty training will be a proven workforce strategy for the San Antonio region.

“This important investment expands opportunities for our pediatric dentistry residents who face significant financial pressures,” said Kenneth Hargreaves, DDS, PhD, professor and dean of the School of Dentistry. “By supporting residents during the critical years of advanced education and training, we are strengthening the pipeline of pediatric oral health specialists and ensuring greater access to high-quality care for children across San Antonio and South Texas.”

Financial support through the Harvey E. Najim Pediatric Health Scholars program will enable the most promising candidates to train at UT Health San Antonio, strengthen the pediatric health workforce pipeline across dentistry, medicine, and nursing and measurably increase the likelihood that pediatric specialists will build long-term careers in San Antonio and surrounding communities.

Over time, graduates of the Harvey E. Najim Pediatric Health Scholars Program are expected to care for hundreds of thousands of pediatric patients across their professional careers, multiplying the impact of this philanthropic investment across generations.

UT Health San Antonio is the academic health center of The University of Texas at San Antonio (UT San Antonio), offering a comprehensive network of inpatient and outpatient care facilities staffed by more than 1,500 providers including medical, dental, nursing and allied health professionals who conduct more than 2.5 million patient visits each year. It is the region’s only academic health center and one of the nation’s leading health sciences institutions, supported by the schools of medicine, nursing, dentistry, health professions, graduate biomedical sciences and public health that are leading change and advancing fields throughout South Texas and the world. To learn about the many ways “We make lives better®,” visit UTHealthSA.org.

Stay connected with UT Health San Antonio on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube.

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SOURCE UT Health San Antonio

The Buzbee Law Firm Achieves $1.1 Billion Verdict for Child Assault Survivor — The largest child assault verdict in United States history

HOUSTON, March 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On the evening of March 26, 2026, The Buzbee Law Firm, led by lawyers Tony Buzbee, Colby Holler, David Fortney, and Hall Sasnett, achieved a jury verdict of $1.1 billion dollars for a child who was the victim of a brutal assault in a case brought on behalf of the minor child B.S. by parents Madison Ball and Stephen Sampson against Charles Edwin Brooks, Jr. The case was tried in Dallas County state court. In the civil lawsuit, the parents alleged that on the night of April 22, 2021, Brooks, who at the time was married to Madison Ball, was babysitting the minor child B.S., when he called Madison Ball (mother) to report that the child was unresponsive. When Madison Ball expressed alarm and insisted that Brooks call 911, he refused. Ball called instead. When first responders arrived, they found the child beaten severely, with bite marks on his legs. The child was non-responsive. The brutal beating caused severe brain injury, resulting in the child being confined to a wheelchair and requiring 24-hour care. Brooks later plead guilty to injury to a child and was sentenced to forty years in prison. Brooks is the great grandson of Percy Turner, one of the original investors of Humble Oil.

The verdict in the case included $291 million in compensatory damages for minor child B.S., along with $810 million in punitive damages for the child along with his parents. This verdict is the largest in U.S. history for the abuse of a child. According to lead counsel Tony Buzbee: “We claim to value children in our society. This Texas jury stepped up and showed that. Don’t mess with Texas children. I hope that through this verdict this precious child gets all the care he will need and hopefully make his life as good as it can be made under the circumstances.”

Brooks was defended by lead counsel Daniel Karp and the law firm Fee, Smith, and Sharp, LLP from Dallas. The case was styled Madison Ball, on behalf of minor child, B.S. v. Charles Edwin Brooks, Jr. and was tried in the 134th District Court in Dallas County.

The Buzbee Law Firm is located in downtown Houston, Texas and occupies the top floor of the tallest building in Texas. The Firm has been involved in the most high-profile sexual assault cases in the United States and has recovered more than $10 billion for its clients.

Inquiries:      

Attorney Tony Buzbee: tbuzbee@txattorneys.com; 713-223-5393.

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SOURCE THE BUZBEE LAW FIRM

Tablet to Game Day: Student Design Celebrating Black History Month Hits the Hardwood at UNC

By Laura Barefoot, Senior Manager, Integrated Marketing, Lenovo

A student design session supported by Lenovo at the Hargraves Community Center in Chapel Hill made its way to the Dean Smith Center, where one lucky student had their design worn by the University of North Carolina’s men’s basketball team.

Rooted in community

The Hargraves Community Center is a longstanding pillar of Chapel Hill’s Northside neighborhood and a place deeply rooted in the town’s historically Black community. Built by and for the community, Hargraves has served generations as a resource for education, recreation, and community involvement. Today, the center continues to support people and families across all ages in the Triangle area through programs that support academic, social, and recreational needs, making it a trusted environment for community engagement and growth.

From imagination to creation

Earlier this year, head coach Hubert Davis along with the Tar Heels players visited the Hargraves Center, joining local students for a collaborative design session in recognition of Black History Month. Powered by Lenovo technology, players worked alongside third- through fifth-grade students to transform their ideas into creative designs that could be shared beyond the classroom.

With guidance from UNC players, these tablets were used to bring ideas to life through a hands-on, interactive experience. The technology allowed students to experiment with colors, fonts, and digital effects, trying out different designs in real time, encouraging creativity and discovery. Throughout the session, the players provided feedback and encouragement, helping refine designs and build confidence. The Lenovo tablets were later donated to the Hargraves Community Center to expand access to technology and support continued learning and creativity.

After the design portion of the team’s visit, students had the opportunity to present their T-shirt designs on a big screen to show off their creativity and artistry. The players then voted and selected one student-created design to be printed on T-shirts that were shown off to UNC fans during pregame warmups before the February 23 game against Louisville. For the students, seeing their peers’ design showcased at the game served as an inspiring example of what can be achieved through collaboration and creativity.

Students working together on their design ideas

“Hargraves Community Center is an important reflection of the heart of Chapel Hill, a town my family loves,” said UNC Basketball coach Hubert Davis. “Introducing our players to the students and families in the Hargraves community serves all of us. It helps build a bridge to community activism for our players and it encourages the students our players interact with to dream big and believe they can achieve anything.”

Empowering through partnership

Through its collaboration with the Hargraves Community Center and continued partnership with UNC, Lenovo continues to deepen its commitment to the North Carolina community by providing technology that fuels learning and creativity. By providing students with the opportunity to explore design, collaborate with mentors, and bring ideas to life, Lenovo helps create hands-on experiences that extend beyond the classroom. Through this initiative, Lenovo reinforces its broader commitment to providing access to digital tools, supporting learning, and contributing to experiences that benefit communities and students.

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Circular Design Illustrated Through Four Cisco Products

At Cisco, circular design means building sustainability into our products and packaging from the start. It’s about designing with the full life cycle in mind: using materials efficiently, incorporating recycled content, reducing packaging waste, improving energy efficiency, and making products easier to repair, upgrade, and recycle.

This matters because choices made in the design stage can influence everything that follows — from how much raw material is used, to how long a product can stay in service, to how efficiently it runs for customers. Circular design also helps make the best use of critical raw materials and supports supply chain resiliency. 

Cisco continues meaningful work in this space over the years while measuring environmental impacts at a product level. 

Below are several examples that illustrate how different product teams are applying circular design in ways that reflect their unique technologies, use cases, and constraints.

UCS-X servers 

UCS-X servers

For over a decade, Unified Computing System (UCS) servers have been engineered to be more sustainable by design, and were awarded the 2023 SEAL Sustainable Product Award. UCS-X reflects how circularity and high performance can go hand-in-hand — especially in data center environments where energy and material choices can add up quickly.

Built with modular, easily removable components, its upgradeable designs help extend the use of the chassis, power supply, cooling, and other components, and it is optimized for repair, reuse, and eventual recycling. This architecture allows the X-Series to consume roughly 50% less raw material over three generations than traditional rack servers.

The latest X-Series architecture also features technology innovations such as efficient 54V power distribution, intelligent fan controls, zone-based cooling, and 80 PLUS Titanium-rated power supplies.

The team also eliminated wet paint and reduced powder coating by 62% compared to the prior generation — meaning less coating material is applied overall. This reduces the amount of raw materials that need to be produced, transported, and ultimately managed across the life cycle.

They also implemented post-consumer recycled (PCR) resin in 77% of non-commodity plastic parts, reducing the use of virgin plastic by using recycled material instead.

Packaging and accessories were also considered. Cisco offers multipack shipping for smaller units and high-volume orders to reduce packaging, and customers can opt out of product accessories they don’t need, such as power cords. Customers receive the product in packaging made of recycled materials, and, like most other Cisco products, can view documentation via QR code.

View the Product Carbon Footprint reports for various UCS products here

Webex Room Bar 

Webex Room Bar

The Webex Room Bar is a video collaboration bar for small meeting rooms. It was redesigned with a simplified architecture to reduce the number of internal components compared to its predecessor, resulting in over 32,000 pounds of material savings annually. It uses at least 55% PCR resin. Foam was eliminated from the packaging, replaced by a fiber-based, double-tray design. When connected to certain displays, the Room Bar can automatically configure the brightness and latency of the display for natural video conferencing upon installation and turn the display on and off automatically, thereby saving energy.

Desk Phone 9800 Series

Desk Phone 9800 Series

The Cisco Desk Phone 9800 series focuses on repairability, recycled content, packaging, and energy consumption.

93% of the product’s major components can be disassembled using common tools, which can improve the repair and recycling processes while extending material life cycles. It uses at least 74% PCR plastic resin.

Packaging also minimizes waste, using 100% recycled plastic bags or fiber-based alternatives, and eliminates unnecessary components such as plastic bags for cables, wipe cloths, and paper documents (except where legally required). 

Energy consumption is another focus, with multiple power-saving modes to meet different customer needs. Deep sleep mode can reduce power required to 0.3 watts, potentially reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by over 40% annually during its use phase. 

To help customers better understand and manage this, a sustainability dashboard reports real-time energy consumption and GHG emissions, enabling users to proactively manage and reduce their GHG emissions from use of the product. 

View the Desk Phone 9871 Lifecycle Assessment summary here

Nexus 9332D-H2R Switch 

Nexus 9332D-H2R Switch

The Cisco Nexus 9332D-H2R is a high-performance, 32-port 400 Gigabit Ethernet deep-buffer switch. In addition to delivering industry-leading performance, the team incorporated features that support both circularity and efficiency. To help manage energy use, the switch features an 80PLUS Platinum-rated power supply unit, and customers can use the Nexus Dashboard to gain insights into power consumption. 

The switch is built with 75% PCR content in non-commodity plastic parts and uses lightweighting techniques to reduce the amount of material used. The top cover was purposely designed to allow customers to easily access and upgrade the memory, which can extend the product’s use.

Emphasizing serviceability, key parts like fans and power supply units are modular, allowing for easy field replacement. 

The packaging consists of corrugated parts with at least 25% PCR content and foam parts with at least 60% PCR content, while accessories use fiber-based bags. The team continues to iterate these sustainability features while protecting the product during shipment.

Looking ahead

Cisco achieved several sustainability goals in our 2025 fiscal year (FY), marking significant progress in our journey. Moving forward, we will focus on maintaining Circular Design Principles in 100% of new products and packaging in FY26.

As we continue pursuing a more circular business model, we’re also expanding the criteria of our Circular Design Principles by listening to our customers, employees, regulators, investors, and other stakeholders. We’re updating these Principles to keep raising our bar for integrating sustainability into our products — readying Cisco for the future. We intend to focus on recycled plastic and materials, removing hazardous materials, improving packaging, and making our evaluation criteria more product-specific, recognizing that Cisco’s product diversity means there’s no one-size-fits-all approach.

We intend to maintain the progress achieved to date, remain accountable, and seek additional opportunities to drive impact.

As always, we will share our progress in our Purpose Reporting Hub and Purpose Report

 

1FY19 base year 

View original content here.

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Dr Le Thu MD of Boston, Massachusetts Launches 2026 Nationwide Grant for Environmental Conservation Initiatives

BOSTON, March 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The newly established Dr Le Thu Grant for Environmental Conservation is proud to announce its official opening for the 2026 award cycle in Boston, Massachusetts.

Inspired by the legacy of a physician in Boston, Massachusetts, who dedicated her life to healing others, this unique grant shifts the focus from human medicine to environmental stewardship.

The Dr Le Thu Grant honors the spirit of Dr Le Thu, MD, a trailblazing emergency medicine physician in Boston, Massachusetts, whose four-decade career was defined by crisis management, education, and a deep-seated belief in the power of dedicated action.

Scholarship Purpose and Impact

The Dr Le Thu Grant is designed to remove financial barriers for students in Boston, Massachusetts, who have a clear vision for environmental conservation. Whether it involves scientific research, community education, habitat restoration, or advocacy, the grant is intended to turn ideas into reality. Eligibility and Application Criteria

To be considered for the $1,000 award from this Boston, Massachusetts-based fund, applicants must submit a detailed project proposal outlining goals and methodology, provide evidence of prior experience in environmental science, and include a response to the required essay prompt.

Essay Prompt: In 500-700 words, describe a personal experience that deepened your commitment to environmental conservation and explain how receiving this grant from the Boston, Massachusetts, committee will help you advance your goals in preserving the planet’s future.

Important Dates

The application deadline for candidates in Boston, Massachusetts, is October 15, 2026, and the winner announcement will be made on November 15, 2026.

About the Namesake: Dr. Le Thu, MD

The grant is established in Boston, Massachusetts, in recognition of Dr. Le Thu, MD, whose career in emergency medicine spanned over forty years. A graduate of Northwestern University and Rush Medical College, Dr. Le Thu’s career included serving as an attending physician in high-volume emergency departments in Boston, Massachusetts, and as an instructor at prestigious institutions like Harvard Medical School and Brigham & Women’s Hospital. Her legacy of teaching and crisis leadership in Boston, Massachusetts, serves as the foundational inspiration for this conservation grant.

For complete details on eligibility and the application process in Boston, Massachusetts, please visit https://drlethugrant.com/.

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SOURCE Dr Le Thu Grant

Learning Beyond Paper Launches “Learning Beyond the Bell,” the First Fully Digital, Bilingual Curriculum Designed for Afterschool and Out-of-School Time Programs

New platform supports grades K–6 with project-based, standards-aligned curriculum across six learning domains

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla., March 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Educators across the country work tirelessly to support students during the school day. When the bell rings, however, millions of children lose access to structured learning opportunities. According to the Afterschool Alliance, 52% of children in the United States do not have access to quality afterschool programming (Afterschool Alliance, 2023).

The hours after 3 PM represent one of the most significant opportunities in education.

Learning Beyond Paper created Learning Beyond the Bell to help close that gap.

Parents want to know their children are learning and growing after school, not simply waiting for pickup. Program providers need resources that work within the realities of afterschool environments. Most importantly, students deserve engaging experiences during the hours between school and home.

Learning Beyond Paper today announced the official launch of Learning Beyond the Bell, the first fully digital, bilingual curriculum platform built specifically for afterschool, out-of-school time (OST), and camp programs serving students in grades K–6.

Developed by the educator-led team behind Learning Beyond Paper, a platform trusted by more than 100,000 teachers, administrators, and families nationwide, Learning Beyond the Bell extends that same mission into the hours after the school day ends.

Learning Tools Designed for Afterschool Programs

Afterschool environments are dynamic. Programs frequently operate with flexible schedules, mixed-age groups, and staff members who care deeply about children but may not have formal teaching backgrounds.

Learning Beyond the Bell was designed with those realities in mind.

The platform delivers project-based, play-centered activities across six learning domains:

  • Creative Arts & Expression
  • STEAM
  • Language & Literacy
  • Physical Play & Wellness
  • Social Studies & Civic Engagement
  • Soft Skills & Life Skills

All curriculum content is fully bilingual in English and Spanish. Grade-banded units are available for K–2, 3–4, and 5–6 learners.

Professional learning is embedded through Learning Beyond University, allowing staff members to deliver high-quality programming from their first day, regardless of experience level.

Programs can implement Learning Beyond the Bell immediately. The platform is fully digital, accessible from any device, and requires no printing or specialized hardware. Many programs can begin using the curriculum the same day they enroll.

Teachers using Learning Beyond Paper platforms report saving an average of three hours per week on lesson planning (Learning Beyond Paper, 2025). A straightforward pricing model eliminates hidden costs, printing expenses, and unexpected fees.

Built by Educators, for Educators

Learning Beyond the Bell was developed by a team with more than 300 years of combined experience in early childhood and elementary education. The team includes former Department of Education leaders, Early Learning Coalition directors, and classroom teachers.

Each activity and professional learning resource was designed for the real conditions of out-of-school time programs. These conditions include flexible schedules, mixed-age groups, and staff members who need to implement programming quickly.

The result is a curriculum grounded in classroom experience and shaped by the voices of educators who understand afterschool programs.

Quotes

Peter Smith, CEO/President, Learning Beyond Paper

“Afterschool programs play an important role in advancing educational opportunity, yet they have historically lacked dedicated curriculum resources. These programs are not simply childcare. They are learning environments that deserve tools designed specifically for their needs.”

“We did not convert a paper curriculum into a digital format. We built something new that works within the realities of out-of-school time programs. At the same time, we maintained the bilingual support and professional learning educators expect from Learning Beyond Paper.”

“We encourage program directors to experience the platform firsthand by scheduling a demonstration and seeing how a curriculum designed for their environment can support afterschool learning.”

Dr. Corinne Muller, COO, Learning Beyond Paper

“We worked directly with afterschool directors, teachers, and students throughout development. Their feedback shaped every unit, activity, and design decision in Learning Beyond the Bell. The curriculum reflects the voices of the people who know these programs best.”

Availability

Learning Beyond the Bell is available now.

Afterschool programs, school districts, Head Start programs, YMCA chapters, Boys & Girls Clubs, 21st CCLC programs, and camp providers can learn more or schedule a demonstration at:

www.learningbeyondthebell.com

For media inquiries or partnership opportunities, contact Suzanne Adinolfi, Ph.D.

About Learning Beyond the Bell

Learning Beyond the Bell is a fully digital, bilingual curriculum platform designed for afterschool, out-of-school time (OST), and camp programs serving students in grades K–6. Developed by educators with more than 300 years of combined experience in early childhood and K–12 education, the platform delivers project-based, standards-aligned learning across six domains: Creative Arts & Expression, STEAM, Language & Literacy, Physical Play & Wellness, Social Studies & Civic Engagement, and Soft Skills & Life Skills.

Designed to be affordable, accessible, and easy to implement, Learning Beyond the Bell supports meaningful learning experiences during the hours after the school day ends.

Learn more at www.learningbeyondthebell.com

About Learning Beyond Paper, Inc.

Learning Beyond Paper is an education technology company based in West Palm Beach, Florida. The company’s mission is to close the equity gap in early childhood and elementary education through affordable, accessible digital curriculum.

Serving more than 100,000 active users across the United States, Learning Beyond Paper platforms align with all 50 state early learning standards, Head Start ELOF, and CLASS indicators. The company provides 52 weeks of research-based lesson plans, more than 4,000 daily activities, embedded professional development, and ELBY, an AI-powered instructional coach available in 36 languages.

Learn more at www.learningbeyondpaper.com

References
Afterschool Alliance. (2023). America After 3PM: Demand grows, opportunity expands. Afterschool Alliance. https://afterschoolalliance.org/AA3PM/landing/

Learning Beyond Paper. (2025). Platform impact and educator outcomes report. Learning Beyond Paper, Inc. https://www.learningbeyondpaper.com

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SOURCE Learning Beyond Paper, Inc.

Waste Reduction Through Donation at Bath & Body Works

What You Should Know:

  • Bath & Body Works evaluates opportunities to reduce, reuse, recycle and compost waste, seeks to use fewer and more sustainable materials and advances end-of-life options for products.
  • Bath & Body Works diverts unsold products from landfills through innovative product distribution programs such as associate sales and donations to nonprofit organizations, including a partnership with Good360.

At Bath & Body Works, waste reduction and management play a key role in building a sustainable future. Reducing waste conserves raw materials and energy, which helps the company reach its climate targets, and effective waste management helps protect resources for the future and can decrease disposal costs.

The brand evaluates opportunities to reduce, reuse, recycle and compost waste whenever possible, prioritizing source reduction as the preferred method. This includes waste generated by operations in offices, distribution and fulfillment centers and stores, as well as company-owned inventory (e.g., packaging components) at third-party vendors when and where it requires disposal.

The company also looks for opportunities to use fewer materials and less packaging, to use more sustainable materials, including recyclable or recycled materials and to advance sustainable end-of-life options, such as reuse.

DIVERTING UNSOLD PRODUCTS FROM LANDFILL

In the retail sector, products that can no longer be sold to customers are a leading source of waste. Bath & Body Works has innovative recycling programs to help evaluate these materials for reuse and recycling feasibility. Through partnerships with external recycling partners, the brand works to help give a second life to some of its products, including soaps and surfactants, ethanol-containing products, aerosols and fragrance oils — all of which can be used for other products and purposes.

Bath & Body Works associates also have the chance to buy surplus products at heavy discounts. Through an annual sample sale, for example, the brand sold nearly 5,700 boxes filled with over 399,000 units of product in 2024.

Another way the brand keeps unsold products out of landfills is by donating them to nonprofit organizations that serve people in need. Since early 2023, Bath & Body Works has worked with Good360 to find donation outlets across various markets for marked-out-of-stock products (products unable to be sold to customers, e.g., end-of-season products). In 2024, the brand scaled its partnership with Good360 from a pilot program to a chainwide initiative across the U.S. and Canada with its stores and distribution and fulfillment centers donating over 1.4 million units of marked out-of-stock product. This waste and recycling/reuse data is based on fiscal 2024 information from contracted waste and recycling vendors of Bath & Body Works, and the company is continuing to further advance the collection of this data. In the interim, it’s important to note that some waste and recycling services are not included, some estimates are included for stores where the brand does not have visibility into waste bills, and this data has not been audited.

Learn more about how Bath & Body Works reduces waste and its contribution to Good360 in the 2024 Sustainability & Impact Report. For more information about Good360, visit good360.org.

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Firstline Brands Launches Texas Heat Collection

New lineup of multifunctional hair tools and accessories brings salon-quality results home.

HOUSTON, March 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Firstline Brands, the leading textured hair accessory company in the U.S., announces its NEW Texas Heat Collection is now available at select retailers nationwide. This comprehensive lineup features innovative styling tools and protective accessories designed to deliver professional-quality results at home.

Firstline launches NEW Texas Heat Collection; innovative styling tools delivering professional-quality results at home.

The collection takes its name from the hero product, the Evolve® Texas Heat Thermal Brush ($14.99), a curved thermal paddle brush engineered specifically for heat-based styling routines. The brush features a contoured paddle that follows the natural curve of the scalp, an ionic plate that supports even heat distribution and frizz control, and an easy-grip handle designed for comfort during extended styling sessions.

“We’ve been making hair tools for 40 years, and we’re still learning from the people who use them every day,” said Joni Odum, President and CEO of Firstline Brands. “This collection came together because our team listens to our consumer; they tell us what’s frustrating, what’s missing, what actually works. From there we’re able to create thoughtful solutions with intentional design that help them achieve their desired look.”

Firstline Brands offers a mix of hairstyling tools and maintenance essentials across its five-brand portfolio, Evolve®, WavEnforcer®, Camryn’s BFF®, DriSweat®, and Sleek®, with products tailored for women, men, tweens, fitness enthusiasts, and budget-conscious shoppers.

In addition to the Evolve® Texas Heat Thermal Brush, the full product range includes:

  • Evolve® Wash Day Bestie ($15.99) – A 3-in-1 brush with three distinct sides designed to support cleansing, detangling, and curl definition. The scalp side helps lift buildup while massaging, flexible detangling pins support slip and reduced tension, and the defining side helps redistribute product and revive curls.
  • Evolve® XL Mane-Tain Shower Cap ($13.99) – An extra-roomy, satin-lined shower cap designed to protect length, volume, and protective styles from steam and moisture.
  • Evolve® Mini & Me Detangler Set ($9.99) – A two-brush detangling set offering flexibility at home and on the go.
  • Evolve® Bonni Reversible Satin Beauty Cap ($14.99) –Double-sided satin provides two looks in one, with adjustable ties for a customized fit and lightweight construction for extended wear.
  • Evolve® Scoop & Swoop Edge Brush ($4.99) – A foldable 2-in-1 edge tool with a built-in edge gel scoop and boar-bristle edge brush. The built-in scoop supports hygienic use, while the compact design makes it perfect for travel.
  • Evolve® Carbon Rat Tail Comb Set ($6.99) – A 2-pack of heat-resistant carbon combs designed for precise parting and sectioning. Carbon construction holds up to heat tools, while the fine tail supports clean, sharp parts ideal for stylists, braiders, and silk-press enthusiasts.
  • WavEnforcer® Flex Detangler ($9.99) – A detangling brush for men with longer hair styles, designed to move with the hair. Flexible rows help reduce snagging, ideal for wet or damp detangling with conditioner.
  • WavEnforcer® Dually Twist Sponge ($9.99) – A dual-sided sponge designed to define twists and curls on short to medium hair. Features two textures for varied twist results in a compact size perfect for on-the-go grooming.
  • WavEnforcer® Loc Headband ($7.99) – An adjustable headband designed to comfortably hold locs, braids, and protective styles. The adjustable fit supports volume and length, while soft material helps avoid root tension.
  • WavEnforcer® Braided King Turban ($13.99) – A satin-lined turban designed to protect waves, curls, braids, and locs while looking polished.

“These new items represent our commitment to creating tools that work as hard as we do as consumers,” said Landria Jordan, Sr. Director of Innovation and Marketing at Firstline Brands. “Each product solves a real styling challenge, whether it’s achieving a sleek blowout or silk press, protecting styles overnight, or shortening your wash day routine. We’ve engineered these tools to make quality hair care simpler and more accessible.”

The Texas Heat Collection is now available at H-E-B, with additional retailers including Target, Whole Foods, Walmart, Walgreens and Amazon carrying select products throughout 2026. All products are crafted with high-quality, durable materials designed to support healthy hair care routines.

About Firstline Brands
Firstline, Incorporated is a leading textured hair accessory company with 40 years of experience and a deep commitment to embrace and accommodate the often-overlooked haircare needs of multicultural groups and hair types. Firstline offers a masterful mix of hairstyling and maintenance essentials from hairbrushes, combs, satin sleep maintenance items, and styling accessories across its brand portfolio that includes Evolve®, WavEnforcer®, DriSweat®, Sleek® and Camryn’s BFF® for girls and tweens. Firstline’s product assortment can be found nationwide at Walmart, CVS, Walgreens, Target, Sally Beauty, Amazon, and more. Learn more at FirstlineBrands.com and join the conversation online @FirstlineBrands everywhere.

CONTACT: Firstline@hos-pr.com

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/firstline-brands-launches-texas-heat-collection-302725634.html

SOURCE Firstline Brands

Firstline Brands Launches Texas Heat Collection

New lineup of multifunctional hair tools and accessories brings salon-quality results home.

HOUSTON, March 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Firstline Brands, the leading textured hair accessory company in the U.S., announces its NEW Texas Heat Collection is now available at select retailers nationwide. This comprehensive lineup features innovative styling tools and protective accessories designed to deliver professional-quality results at home.

Firstline launches NEW Texas Heat Collection; innovative styling tools delivering professional-quality results at home.

The collection takes its name from the hero product, the Evolve® Texas Heat Thermal Brush ($14.99), a curved thermal paddle brush engineered specifically for heat-based styling routines. The brush features a contoured paddle that follows the natural curve of the scalp, an ionic plate that supports even heat distribution and frizz control, and an easy-grip handle designed for comfort during extended styling sessions.

“We’ve been making hair tools for 40 years, and we’re still learning from the people who use them every day,” said Joni Odum, President and CEO of Firstline Brands. “This collection came together because our team listens to our consumer; they tell us what’s frustrating, what’s missing, what actually works. From there we’re able to create thoughtful solutions with intentional design that help them achieve their desired look.”

Firstline Brands offers a mix of hairstyling tools and maintenance essentials across its five-brand portfolio, Evolve®, WavEnforcer®, Camryn’s BFF®, DriSweat®, and Sleek®, with products tailored for women, men, tweens, fitness enthusiasts, and budget-conscious shoppers.

In addition to the Evolve® Texas Heat Thermal Brush, the full product range includes:

  • Evolve® Wash Day Bestie ($15.99) – A 3-in-1 brush with three distinct sides designed to support cleansing, detangling, and curl definition. The scalp side helps lift buildup while massaging, flexible detangling pins support slip and reduced tension, and the defining side helps redistribute product and revive curls.
  • Evolve® XL Mane-Tain Shower Cap ($13.99) – An extra-roomy, satin-lined shower cap designed to protect length, volume, and protective styles from steam and moisture.
  • Evolve® Mini & Me Detangler Set ($9.99) – A two-brush detangling set offering flexibility at home and on the go.
  • Evolve® Bonni Reversible Satin Beauty Cap ($14.99) –Double-sided satin provides two looks in one, with adjustable ties for a customized fit and lightweight construction for extended wear.
  • Evolve® Scoop & Swoop Edge Brush ($4.99) – A foldable 2-in-1 edge tool with a built-in edge gel scoop and boar-bristle edge brush. The built-in scoop supports hygienic use, while the compact design makes it perfect for travel.
  • Evolve® Carbon Rat Tail Comb Set ($6.99) – A 2-pack of heat-resistant carbon combs designed for precise parting and sectioning. Carbon construction holds up to heat tools, while the fine tail supports clean, sharp parts ideal for stylists, braiders, and silk-press enthusiasts.
  • WavEnforcer® Flex Detangler ($9.99) – A detangling brush for men with longer hair styles, designed to move with the hair. Flexible rows help reduce snagging, ideal for wet or damp detangling with conditioner.
  • WavEnforcer® Dually Twist Sponge ($9.99) – A dual-sided sponge designed to define twists and curls on short to medium hair. Features two textures for varied twist results in a compact size perfect for on-the-go grooming.
  • WavEnforcer® Loc Headband ($7.99) – An adjustable headband designed to comfortably hold locs, braids, and protective styles. The adjustable fit supports volume and length, while soft material helps avoid root tension.
  • WavEnforcer® Braided King Turban ($13.99) – A satin-lined turban designed to protect waves, curls, braids, and locs while looking polished.

“These new items represent our commitment to creating tools that work as hard as we do as consumers,” said Landria Jordan, Sr. Director of Innovation and Marketing at Firstline Brands. “Each product solves a real styling challenge, whether it’s achieving a sleek blowout or silk press, protecting styles overnight, or shortening your wash day routine. We’ve engineered these tools to make quality hair care simpler and more accessible.”

The Texas Heat Collection is now available at H-E-B, with additional retailers including Target, Whole Foods, Walmart, Walgreens and Amazon carrying select products throughout 2026. All products are crafted with high-quality, durable materials designed to support healthy hair care routines.

About Firstline Brands
Firstline, Incorporated is a leading textured hair accessory company with 40 years of experience and a deep commitment to embrace and accommodate the often-overlooked haircare needs of multicultural groups and hair types. Firstline offers a masterful mix of hairstyling and maintenance essentials from hairbrushes, combs, satin sleep maintenance items, and styling accessories across its brand portfolio that includes Evolve®, WavEnforcer®, DriSweat®, Sleek® and Camryn’s BFF® for girls and tweens. Firstline’s product assortment can be found nationwide at Walmart, CVS, Walgreens, Target, Sally Beauty, Amazon, and more. Learn more at FirstlineBrands.com and join the conversation online @FirstlineBrands everywhere.

CONTACT: Firstline@hos-pr.com

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/firstline-brands-launches-texas-heat-collection-302725634.html

SOURCE Firstline Brands

Testing the Future of Healthcare Wearables

Marie Hattar, SVP at Keysight Technologies

Marie Hattar, SVP at Keysight Technologies (Image courtesy of Healtchcare IT Today)

Originally published by Healtchcare IT Today
The following is a guest article by Marie Hattar, SVP at Keysight Technologies

Wearable devices are transforming healthcare through continuous monitoring, early detection, and personalized management of chronic diseases. These innovations are reinventing how health concerns are tracked and treated, with the goal of improving diagnostics, outcomes, and accessibility. However, they also introduce new technical challenges to overcome.

Factors like increasing health consciousness, aging populations, and advances in sensor technology and connectivity are helping fuel wearables’ popularity. Innovations such as sensor patches that continuously track ECG (electrocardiogram), respiratory rate, and other vital signs, to Oura rings and continuous glucose monitors are also contributing to this transformation. These devices combine sensors to monitor vital signs, utilizing Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or other IoT connectivity for seamless data transmission. With their ubiquitous nature, the healthcare wearables sector is set to grow from $103.4 billion in 2025 to $324.73 billion by 3032. In the US, research found that 45% of adults now own a wearable.

Continue reading here.

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