Tag: 3BL

Originally published on Guiding Stars Health & Nutrition News

by Allison Stowell

Date night, whether with a partner, friend, or even yourself doesn’t have to mean restaurant indulgence. It can be a simple, nourishing moment made special at home—an opportunity to explore a new recipe and enjoy time in the kitchen. Maybe you’re alone with your favorite music, or sharing the work with a loved one. Whatever your preference, staying in saves you money and lets you make a meal that’s tailored to your tastes.

Keep It Simple

In a world of “Instagram-perfect” dinner plates, it’s easy to forget that yours doesn’t have to look pretty. Your only goal is to make a dish that’s nutritious, balanced, and delicious. Think of it as assembling a meal, not necessarily cooking one. Go for protein + grain + vegetable (or fruit) + flavor and you’ll have the bowl or plate that works for you. To make it even easier, maintain a pantry and freezer stocked with Guiding Stars-earning convenience. Add assorted citrus, spices, oils, and lower-sodium sauces for flavor, and you’re all set.

Nutrition Boost

One of the costs of dining out (or ordering in) is the “cost” of nutritional compromises. Preparing food at home, however, allows you to manage the ingredients. Choose more heart-healthy fats and go for whole grains for a fiber boost. You can also control the amount of salt in your meal. This may mean significantly less salt—one restaurant meal can contribute almost a third of our daily sodium intake. Try Guiding Stars-earning, nutritious dishes that rival restaurant-made meals like Curried Vegetable Lo Mein or Spicy Fish Taco Bowls.

Flavor & Color

It’s common to choose restaurant meals over dining in when we don’t think we can recreate bold flavors or appealing plates on our own. Today, however, it’s much easier to make meals at home with international flair, flavor depth, and interesting ingredients. Most supermarkets have a robust sauce and marinade aisle, abundant grains and pasta shapes, and produce from around the world. Surprise yourself with homemade Peruvian Shrimp with Green Sauce or Chicken Shahi Korma.

Beyond Date-Night Dinner

When you’re savoring a slow night at home, making delicious food is precious. Compared to busy days that pull you in so many directions, just the time to slow down is an indulgence. But what if these moments of relaxation also helped make the upcoming week easier? Lean on weekend dinners that also make prepped ingredients for easy weekday meals. Make sheet pan meals, which provide the building blocks for salads, grain bowls, wraps, omelets, and more in the upcoming week. Or go for a dish that’s likely to leave plenty of leftovers, like a roast or stew. You’ll be enjoying your evening and giving your future self a gift too.

About Guiding Stars

Guiding Stars is an objective, evidence-based, nutrition guidance program that evaluates foods and beverages to make nutritious choices simple. Products that meet transparent nutrition criteria earn a 1, 2, or 3 star rating for good, better, and best nutrition. Guiding Stars can be found in more than 2,000 grocery stores, in Circana’ Attribute Marketplace, and through the Guiding Stars Food Finder app.

Image: Herb Rubbed Roast Beef with Orange Salsa – 2 Guiding Stars

 

MetLife

NEW YORK, January 27, 2026 /3BL/ – MetLife Foundation announced a $1.7 million grant to U.S. Soccer Foundation, the national leader for sports-based youth development. This partnership will help improve the well-being of 220,000 young people, their families and local communities through the power of sports and mentorship, preparing them for more confident futures. This work will create more opportunities for people and communities to get involved in the excitement around the sport.

With 16 million youth in the U.S. lacking a mentor, the two-year partnership will train and equip teachers and coaches across MetLife communities to help fill this gap, including 850 in the New York and New Jersey area as part of the U.S. Soccer Foundation’s evidence-based Soccer for Success program and Yes, Coach!^TM movement. These programs equip coaches with essential youth development skills and empower teachers to use soccer to improve the physical and mental health of their students.

The partnership will create new safe spaces to play with the opening of six mini-pitches – small, hard-court fields – in cities nationwide. U.S. Soccer Foundation’s evaluation of mini-pitches proved these spaces strengthen communities and expand opportunities with 86% of youth who have access to them demonstrating positive behaviors and 98% of residents reporting that their neighborhoods feel safer. To build on this impact, MetLife Foundation is supporting community-led soccer programming at additional locations through the U.S. Soccer Foundation’s Just Ball program.

“We’ve seen how powerful sports can be, not just for kids, but for families and entire communities,” said Tia Hodges, President and CEO of MetLife Foundation and Head of Corporate Giving and Employee Volunteerism at MetLife. “Together with U.S. Soccer Foundation, we’re creating more opportunities to play and engaging MetLife employee volunteers to help young people and their communities build stronger futures.”

U.S. Soccer Foundation and MetLife Foundation will open mini-pitches in Dallas, TX, and Philadelphia, PA, by the end of 2025. They plan to open additional locations in California, Georgia, New Jersey and New York in 2026. These will serve as community hubs, hosting ongoing soccer events and activities, with support from MetLife employee volunteers.

“Soccer is having a moment in our country, and we’re proud to partner with MetLife Foundation to ensure this moment reaches millions of youth and families in under-resourced communities nationwide,” said Ed Foster-Simeon, President & CEO of the U.S. Soccer Foundation. “By creating safe places to play, expanding proven in- and after-school programs, and training more coaches to serve as mentors and community leaders, we’re making sure the game leaves a lasting impact for generations to come.”

MetLife Foundation’s partnership with U.S. Soccer Foundation builds upon its recent $9 million commitment as a founding donor of the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, which aims to expand access to quality education and soccer for young people around the world.

For more information on the work of MetLife Foundation, visit www.metlife.org.

About MetLife Foundation

At MetLife Foundation, we are committed to driving inclusive economic mobility. We collaborate with nonprofit organizations and provide grants aligned to three strategic focus areas – economic empowerment, financial health and resilient communities – while engaging MetLife employee volunteers to help drive impact. MetLife Foundation was established in 1976 to continue MetLife’s long tradition of corporate contributions and community involvement. Since its inception, MetLife Foundation has contributed over $1 billion to strengthen communities where MetLife has a presence. To learn more about MetLife Foundation, visit www.metlife.org.

About U.S. Soccer Foundation

As the national leader for sports-based youth development in under-resourced areas, the U.S. Soccer Foundation is on a mission to let soccer do what it does: change absolutely everything. Founded as a legacy of the 1994 FIFA World Cup, the Foundation provides underserved communities with access to innovative play spaces and evidence-based soccer programs that instill hope, foster well-being, and help youth achieve their fullest potential. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the U.S. Soccer Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization. For more information, visit www.ussoccerfoundation.org or follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram.

MetLife Foundation: 
Olivia Janicelli
347-751-5728 
olivia.janicelli@metlife.com 
 

U.S. Soccer Foundation: 
Jennifer Arnold 
jarnold@ussoccerfoundation.org

Building an inclusive digital workforce

The disconnect between skilled talent and open jobs has become one of the most pressing challenges worldwide. Cisco Networking Academy and Indeed, the world’s #1 job site*, have joined forces through a global strategic partnership to address this gap—creating a seamless, end-to-end pathway from tech skills training to employment.

For over 28 years, Cisco Networking Academy has empowered millions of learners and instructors with the skills needed to succeed in a digital world. Now, with Indeed’s mission to help 30 million job seekers facing barriers get hired by 2030**, this partnership marks a new chapter in bridging education and employment at scale.

A proven model for a global vision

To begin our collaboration, we launched an initial pilot in the United States to build a customized career hub. Our model features a co-branded career hub on Indeed, tailored specifically for Cisco Networking Academy learners to streamline the journey from skills to jobs by offering:

• Curated job boards: Pre-filtered roles directly aligned with Cisco Networking Academy’s curricula, including Cybersecurity, Networking, AI & Data Science, Programming, and more.
• AI-enhanced tools: Personalized career advice, AI-powered resume builders, intelligent job matching, and comparison tools help learners put their best foot forward.
• Career services: Access to free and discounted resources, including resume writing, mock interviews, and negotiation preparation.
• Career preparation workshops: Free, comprehensive sessions to help learners plan their career goals and enhance their professional profiles.

Since the U.S. pilot launched in August 2024, the results have been remarkable, with tens of thousands of job applications started by Cisco Networking Academy students. This high level of engagement highlights the value of connecting verified tech talent with real-world opportunities and demonstrates a proven model for bringing our global vision to life.

India: The next step in a global rollout

Building on the success of the U.S. pilot, we’re expanding our reach to the first dedicated Career Hub outside of the United States. As the world’s third-largest digital economy***, with over 70 percent of India’s youth aspiring to work in tech****, India’s potential to shape the future of tech is extraordinary. By launching our career hub model in India, Cisco and Indeed are providing localized, high-impact opportunities for a workforce that is ready to lead the next wave of digital innovation.

Powering potential at scale

Cisco’s goal to train 25 million learners by 2032, combined with Indeed’s global reach, creates a powerful force for social and economic impact—and this launch is just the beginning. By creating a seamless connection between education and employment, we aim to power potential and advance inclusion for learners everywhere and build the workforce of tomorrow—starting today.

“Cisco Networking Academy offers access to in-demand digital skills for learners across the globe,” says Par Merat, Vice President, Learn with Cisco. “Now, our collaboration with Indeed helps those learners find jobs best aligned to their skills. By combining our industry-leading curriculum and global community with Indeed’s world-class platform, we’re creating a bridge from skills to jobs that will change lives and help close the talent gap.”

How to get started

• Explore the Career Hub: Explore the new Career Hub to discover local opportunities matched to your skills.
• Update your profile: Make sure to add “Cisco Networking Academy” to your Indeed and LinkedIn profiles. This is a critical step to boost your visibility with employers!
• Showcase your skills: Follow these steps to Stand Out with an Optimized Indeed Profile. This guide will help you add your earned badges, certificates, and certifications to your profile.
• For employers: When using Indeed products such as Smart Sourcing, search for “Cisco Networking Academy” or relevant Cisco Networking Academy certifications to build a pipeline of job-ready tech talent.

Visit the Career Hub now

 

*Total Visits, Comscore, March 2025.

**Sustainability: Breaking Down Job Market Barriers to Help 30M Job Seekers Get Hired, Recruit Group, November 2025. View source

***State of India’s Digital Economy (SIDE) Report, Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER), 2024. View source

****Gen Z and Millennials: Reshaping the Future of Workforce, Nasscom, December 2022. View source

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At Elanco, our commitment to a healthier future extends beyond animal health. It encompasses the health of our planet and our people. We are thrilled to announce that our new global headquarters has achieved LEED Certified status, a testament to our dedication to sustainable design and operation. This significant accomplishment reflects a proactive approach to environmental stewardship, ensuring our workspace is as innovative and forward-thinking as our mission.

What is LEED Certification?

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is the most widely used green building rating system in the world. It provides a framework for healthy, highly efficient, and cost-saving buildings. There are four levels of certification: Certified, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. LEED addresses everything from energy and water use to materials, waste management and indoor environmental quality. Our building project underwent verification and review by Green Building Certification Inc. and received points for satisfying certain credit requirements. Elanco is pleased to have achieved the Certified level.

LEED certification is about more than just a plaque on the wall. It’s about a holistic approach to sustainability, considering people, planet, and profit. It ensures that buildings are designed, constructed, and operated to minimize environmental impact while maximizing occupant well-being.

The certification process began at the very inception of the building’s design back in 2020. When we decided to pursue certification, we started by collaborating with the design team to determine which credit categories we would target. Energy efficiency was the first discussion; we then branched out to other goals and carried them through with the contractor team. It was a multi-layered decision-making process with owners, architects, engineers, landscape architects, contractors, and consultants such as RATIO, CSO, F.A. Wilhelm, Anova, and GAIA Blueprint all coming together to ensure we met the sustainability goals.

 

Sustainable Design and Construction Highlights

Our new headquarters boasts a range of innovative features that contributed to its LEED certification:

Energy and Atmosphere:

• Optimized Energy Performance: One of the most impressive features is the energy recovery wheel system, which is a sustainable AHU component that transfers sensible and/or latent energy between incoming fresh air and outgoing exhaust air, reducing HVAC loads by up to 70-80%.
• Enhanced Commissioning: An independent commissioning agent verified that our HVAC systems are installed and operating precisely as designed, ensuring optimal performance.

Location and Transportation:

• Brownfield Site Redevelopment: Our headquarters is built on a brownfield site, an abandoned area that we are giving new life to. This is what LEED calls a ‘high-priority site’ for sustainable development.
• Enhanced Connectivity: This campus, along with elements of connectivity such as a logical public street grid, sidewalks, lighting and greenspaces, set a framework for ongoing connectivity in the downtown Valley Neighborhood. The upcoming Innovator Way bridge across the White River will connect central downtown to the OneHealth Innovation District and the Valley neighborhood. The new bridge includes the Indianapolis Cultural Trail, further integrating our campus into the urban environment and all its important venues. The new Innovator Way bridge includes four large circular rings, a unique feature that will contribute to the skyline.

 

Measurable Environmental Impact

The sustainable choices made during design and construction translate into significant environmental savings:

• Water Efficiency: By selecting lower-flow fixtures for toilets, sinks, urinals, and showers, Elanco’s headquarters saves an impressive 542,668 gallons of water every year. That’s just over 4/5ths of an Olympic swimming pool, or almost five years of water for one household!
• Waste Reduction:
  • Construction Demolition and Waste: Instead of sending construction waste to landfills, we partnered with a provider to divert and recycle materials. A remarkable 75.9% of construction waste (1300 tons) was diverted from landfills.
  • Operational Recycling: The building features numerous recycling points throughout, including dedicated battery recycling.
• Heat Island Reduction: To combat the urban heat island effect, our campus incorporates a reflective roof and uses concrete instead of asphalt in key areas.

Thoughtful Material Sourcing and Indoor Quality

We selected the materials for our headquarters with both environmental impact and occupant well-being in mind:

• Sustainable Materials: Over 20% of our raw materials were sustainable products, incorporating recycled content and locally sourced materials.
• Indoor Environmental Quality: We prioritized low-emitting materials for furnishings, paints, and carpets. These materials produce fewer toxic odors and off-gases, improving indoor air quality for all employees.
• Thoughtful Material Sourcing: At Elanco, a table represents unity and connection. This belief drove our thoughtful sourcing of communal cafeteria tables in our new building. They were designed and manufactured by Purposeful Designs, an organization dedicated to employing homeless men, putting them on a path to self-sufficiency and a living wage.

 

Employee Experience and Well-being

Beyond environmental benefits, the sustainable design of our headquarters significantly enhances the daily experience for Elanco employees:

• Improved Indoor Air Quality: The use of low-emitting materials directly contributes to a healthier indoor environment.
• Natural Lighting and Views: The building’s design maximizes natural lighting and offers views of the Indianapolis skyline and Lucas Oil Stadium, fostering a more pleasant and productive workspace.
• Art and Comfort: Features such as the Water in Dripping, River sculpture, and bronze table sculpture enhance the building’s aesthetic appeal and overall sense of well-being.

Elanco’s LEED Certified headquarters is more than just a building; it’s a living embodiment of our commitment to sustainability, innovation, and the well-being of our global community. We are proud to lead by example, creating a workspace that is healthy for our employees and responsible for our planet.

PORTLAND, OR., February 25, 2026 /3BL/ — The Portland Thorns have signed a multi‑year agreement with KeyBank, naming the financial institution the club’s Official Retail Bank and launching a slate of programs focused on community impact, youth development, and financial empowerment.

The partnership centers on expanding opportunities for girls and young women in Portland, with investments supporting several cornerstone Thorns initiatives, including Community Captain, the Thorns Academy, and the Lead(HERS) of Tomorrow program.

Alexis Lee, President of Business Operations for the Thorns, said the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to building pathways for young women both on and off the field.

“When you hand someone a key, you’re saying this space is yours and that’s what this partnership represents,” Lee said. “With KeyBank, we can strengthen the resources around girls at every stage of their journey, expanding access, investing in growth, and bringing opportunity forward in tangible ways.”

Josh Lyons, KeyBank’s Oregon and Southwest Washington Market President, said the partnership aligns with the bank’s focus on strengthening local communities.

“This collaboration is a true testament to our commitment to Portland,” Lyons said. “Together, we’ll expand access to financial empowerment resources and inspire the next generation—both on and off the pitch.”

Spotlighting Community Leaders

As part of the agreement, KeyBank becomes the presenting sponsor of Community Captain, an in‑stadium recognition program that highlights individuals making a difference in the region. Honorees will be celebrated on the field before regular‑season home matches and featured across Thorns platforms.

Investment in Player Pathways

KeyBank will also serve as the front‑of‑kit sponsor for the Thorns Academy, marking a major investment in the club’s youth development system. The support will help fund opportunities for young athletes and milestone events such as the Academy Gala and Senior Signing Day.

Programs for Girls and Women

The partnership extends to Lead(HERS) of Tomorrow, a Thorns initiative that provides leadership development, career exposure, and mentorship to young women. The organizations will jointly launch a scholarship program for girls from underserved communities and create original content blending soccer education with financial literacy.

Fan and Player Engagement

Fans can expect Thorns‑themed experiences at KeyBank branches, while players will have access to financial education and career‑planning resources. KeyBank will also continue its role as the presenting partner of the “Girl of the Game” feature during home matches.

Activation of the partnership will roll out across Providence Park, local neighborhoods, and digital channels throughout the 2026 season.

Lenovo Manufacturing Solutions has earned three prestigious global honors: Platinum Winner at the TITAN Business Awards for Business Technology Solutions, Manufacturing Solution, Product of the Year at the BIG Awards for Business, and the Middle East Technology Excellence Awards 2025 in the AI – Manufacturing category.

These accolades underscore the strength of Lenovo’s AI-powered manufacturing solutions and its ability to help customers enhance production quality, strengthen supply chain resilience, and modernize operations with smarter, more efficient, and secure technologies.

• The BIG Awards recognize organizations and leaders that turn vision into performance, reshape markets, and drive positive change across industries. Lenovo Manufacturing Solutions was named Product of the Year, reflecting strong industry validation for its AI-powered capabilities that enable end-to-end automation, real-time data visibility, and advanced intelligence across warehouse automation, production lines, and supply chains.
• The 2025 TITAN Business Awards celebrate global business leaders for entrepreneurial drive, corporate excellence, and international impact. Selected from more than 5,200 entries across 65 countries, Lenovo received the Platinum award in the Business Technology Solutions – Manufacturing Solution category, affirming its position among an elite group of organizations setting new benchmarks for innovation and excellence.
• The Middle East Technology Excellence Awards honor outstanding achievements by both regional and international companies shaping the region’s rapidly evolving technology landscape. Lenovo was recognized for its comprehensive, end-to-end manufacturing solutions that seamlessly integrate supply chain, shop floor, and warehouse operations.

Lenovo Manufacturing Solutions continues to deliver proven business outcomes through real-world deployments. By combining decades of manufacturing expertise with a global partner ecosystem, Lenovo enables manufacturers to boost productivity, improve efficiency, and advance sustainability by accelerating the shift toward the next era of intelligent, human-centric manufacturing.

“Our wins reflect not just our leadership in technology, but the trust our customers place in us to co-design AI-powered solutions that are practical, scalable, and built for real-world impact,” said Andy Zheng, General Manager, Lenovo Manufacturing Solutions. “As a manufacturer ourselves, we understand first-hand the pressures organizations face to do more with less, to operate sustainably, and to keep people at the center of innovation. That perspective shapes our commitment to helping customers automate intelligently, build resilience, and move confidently into the next era of manufacturing.”

Delivering measurable real-world impact for customers across industries

A widely recognized example of Lenovo’s real-world impact is its collaboration with ST Logistics. Partnering with Lenovo, ST Logistics streamlined and integrated its systems while introducing Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) to optimize routing, prioritize urgent shipments, and enhance workplace safety, laying the foundation for future innovation. As a result, the company reduced turnaround times and improved storage efficiency by increasing order processing by up to 40%, reducing energy consumption by 30%, and boosting workforce productivity by up to 30%. Hamarian Mohamad, General Manager, Homeland Security, ST Logistics said, “Choosing the right partner and technology was crucial—not just to enhance efficiency but to prepare for future automation and AI potential. Lenovo’s capabilities best fit our visions and strategic plan for future development, delivering immediate benefits while integrating with our existing systems.”

Lenovo has also recently completed a warehouse automation program for leading regional retailer, Guardian Health & Beauty, part of DFI Retail Group. The AI-led solution deploys a fleet of 47 autonomous robots to support warehouse operations, delivering tangible improvements in accuracy and efficiency. Proving to be another example of Lenovo’s practical business impact, the solution led to an increase in goods picking accuracy, reaching almost 100%, and picking efficiency increasing by 35%. This innovation helped Guardian Malaysia secure the

In addition, Lenovo’s enabled the leading Chinese dairy producer to derive actionable insights from daily user feedback through AI-powered social listening, while delivering a seamless customer experience across digital platforms. Lenovo also supported the deployment of a supply chain control tower that reduced shortages and overstock, mapped the end-to-end procurement-to-sales journey, and enabled more agile marketing and logistics planning. “Lenovo has extensive experience in AI and manufacturing and is actively exploring and building diverse AI capabilities. Over the past few years, we have collaborated with Lenovo to develop and continuously refine multiple applications. These capabilities have significantly improved employee efficiency and helped us better serve our customers.” says Tiger Shang, General Manager of the Data Technology Center, Yili Group.

Together, these real-world deployments demonstrate how our AI-driven automation is accelerating the manufacturing industry’s shift toward Industry 5.0 that emphasizes human-centricity in human-intelligent machine interactions.

Building on this momentum, Lenovo Manufacturing Solutions will continue to showcase how organizations can automate, sustain, and adapt for long-term productivity and growth at upcoming global platforms, including Lenovo Tech Day, LEAP in the Middle East, and Hannover Messe in Germany.

The Chemours Company, a global chemistry company, and 2CRSi, a pioneer in high-performance, eco-responsible server technology, today announced a Joint Development Agreement (JDA)¹ following the successful qualification of Chemours’ Opteon™ two-phase immersion cooling fluid in current-generation 2CRSi servers. This milestone sets the stage for accelerating the development and deployment of advanced two-phase cooling technologies—including direct-to-chip and immersion systems—for high-density IT infrastructure, supporting AI and next-generation chips.

Building on this qualification success, the partnership will combine Chemours’ advanced thermal management expertise and 2CRSi’s server design leadership to deliver substantial end-user and environmental benefits, meeting near- and long-term data center and IT cooling demands.

“At Chemours, we firmly believe two-phase liquid cooling is the key to unlocking the next generation of high-performance computing, and we’re thrilled to partner with 2CRSi to meet the unprecedented demands of AI and advanced IT workloads—while dramatically reducing energy and water consumption,” said Nathan Blom, Vice President of Liquid Cooling at Chemours. “This partnership will not only deliver innovative cooling solutions; it will empower customers to future-proof their infrastructure and accelerate the transition to more efficient, resilient digital ecosystems.”

Chemours’ Opteon™ two-phase liquid cooling solutions can deliver up to a 90% reduction in data center cooling energy compared to traditional air cooling, a power usage effectiveness (PUE) approaching 1, dramatic reductions in water consumption, and a circular solution through fluid recovery and reuse. Additionally, accelerated life cycle testing confirms compatibility with industry-standard IT components.

These environmental and operational advantages align with 2CRSi’s commitment to decarbonizing digital infrastructure. Leveraging Chemours’ next-generation fluids, 2CRSi has successfully commercialized ultra-high-density servers—such as the Atlas 1.8GG 2PIC model—housing 8 NVIDIA H200 GPUs in a 1U format, a technical achievement enabled by two-phase cooling.

“2CRSi has always been a pioneer in server cooling. As the industry embraces liquid cooling, we are proud to collaborate with Chemours to deliver some of the most efficient and innovative solutions available today,” said Alain Wilmouth, CEO at 2CRSi. “This partnership reflects a shared vision to address the surging energy demands of AI and GPU-accelerated computing. Together, Chemours and 2CRSi are paving the way for compact, energy-efficient edge data centers capable of powering low-latency applications such as autonomous vehicles, 5G/6G networks, and intelligent embedded systems.”

The companies will focus on pushing technological boundaries to deliver efficient, high-density servers for AI and HPC, targeting advanced formats like 15 kW, 1U servers powered by Nvidia GPUs.

¹ This agreement formalizes an in-depth technological collaboration between the two companies, following several years of successful testing conducted on 2CRSi’s Atlantis™ and Octopus™ servers with the Opteon™ 2P50 fluid developed by Chemours.

This announcement originally appeared on Chemours.com. 

Originally published on newsroom.marykay.com

When Dr. Lucy Gildea talks about Mary Kay, you can hear the spark. After 15 years at Procter & Gamble working across healthcare, beauty, and personal care industries, she joined the iconic brand in 2017 and quickly realized she had found her “home” – a place where science, marketing, and purpose all collide. Now as Chief Brand and Scientific Officer, she’s steering Mary Kay’s transformation, evolving the portfolio of advanced beauty solutions and sharpening the brand’s competitive edge through meaningful innovation, personalization, and emotional connection.

In this exclusive interview, Dr. Gildea reflects on the innovative spirit shaping the next chapter of growth of the #1 Direct Selling Brand of Skin Care and Color Cosmetics in the World^[1]. Dive in with Lucy as she uncovers the scientific force and brand values supercharging the product portfolio in six questions that spark discovery at every turn!

What drives women’s loyalty to the Mary Kay brand?

• Women stay loyal to Mary Kay because they genuinely love the brand – and the experience that comes with it. Yes, we offer great products, but what truly sets us apart is our deep sense of purpose. Every day, we wake up knowing exactly why we do what we do: to transform lives, to inspire hope, to enrich women, and to give back to the communities we serve. That commitment is not a marketing statement; it is who we have always been. It is our calling. And it all started with our founder Mary Kay Ash – an unstoppable trailblazer whose vision still guides us. Her legacy gives us a “timeless DNA” and that is what makes this brand so special and so enduring.

How has Mary Kay consistently stayed ahead in product innovation over the years?

• Staying ahead of the curve requires a disciplined focus on emerging consumers, beauty, and innovation trends. At Mary Kay, we combine robust internal research with insights from external partners, industry studies, and social listening.
• Just as importantly, we tap into one of our most valuable sources of real-time intelligence: our global network of Independent Beauty Consultants – millions of women who engage with consumers daily.
• We also look beyond the beauty sector for fresh inspiration, drawing ideas from adjacent industries and broader cultural shifts. By synthesizing this diverse input, we translate it into meaningful product experiences for both consumers and our Independent Beauty Consultants.
• Our goal is not to compete on every front or be everything to everyone; it is to remain clear about what differentiates us and to deliver a focused, thoughtful product portfolio that our beauty consultants can champion with confidence.

^{Unmask the Possibilities – The newly launched Mary Kay® Hydrating Cream Mask (Photo Courtesy: Mary Kay Inc.)}

How do you balance legacy, strong brand identity, and constant innovation?

• As a scientist, I like to say that innovation is in our DNA. While product innovation is a big part of that, we are constantly evolving across every touchpoint of the business, balancing progress with tradition can create “healthy tension,” a challenge that legacy companies face.
• We work intentionally to move the company forward in ways that keep us relevant, staying true to our identity and culture, focusing on decisions that strengthen the Mary Kay brand.

How do you assess your product portfolio and decide on future product development?

• We research, develop, and manufacture innovative skincare, color cosmetics, and fragrances for 40 markets and offer nutritional supplements in selected markets. Imagine a world where beauty meets innovation, and our products reach millions across continents Being a global company with a broad portfolio naturally brings complexity. That is why we take a strategic, focused approach, always putting our Independent Beauty Consultant at the center, always looking at what supports “her” ability to grow her business successfully.
• Our product portfolio assessments also integrate health and wellness for instance through supporting skin barrier and skin microbiome, Artificial Intelligence (AI), immersive beauty experience, and sustainability. Consumers’ needs evolve, and so do the needs of our Beauty Consultants. We thrive on the challenge of delivering bold solutions that align with trends, offer functional depth, sensory delight, and redefine confidence and a sense of community for both our beauty consultants and consumers.

^{Mary Kay Clinical Solutions® Barrier Restore 1:1:3 helps get fast-acting barrier repair and visible redness relief in one single step. (Photo Courtesy: Mary Kay Inc.)}

How do you attract the new generation of brand lovers?

• Mary Kay is by essence a purpose-driven multi-generational brand. We have been living our values for over 62 years, and we want to keep sharing that purpose in a way that resonates with every new audience. Let me walk you through two examples.
• AI-driven beauty personalization. A first in the direct selling industry, Mary Kay® Foundation Finder uses advanced artificial intelligence to scan a customer’s face on their mobile phone and provide personalized shade recommendations in just seconds. Think flawless foundation meets technology!
• Millennials and Gen Z consumers also prioritize sustainability and transparency, choosing brands that align with their values to make a positive environmental and social impact. They are not just buying a product – they are also buying into what a company believes in. The Shea ingredient at the heart of our newly launched Mary Kay® Hydrating Cream Mask and our Satin Body®, Hands® and Lips® lines is sustainably sourced through the Global Shea Alliance, contributing to the empowerment of millions of  women, who are the “She behind the Shea” in West Africa. That is one of the things I love most about my role: showing how our brand identity enhances every product we launch and every opportunity we offer.
   

^{The Mary Kay AI Foundation Finder helps consumers find their best foundation match. (Photo Courtesy: Mary Kay Inc.)}

Can you give us a glimpse into Mary Kay’s most recent launches or upcoming launches?

• I am so glad you asked! We just recently launched^[2] the Mary Kay Clinical Solutions® Barrier Restore 1:1:3 which is the most recent innovation in our Clinical Solutions line inspired by widely used professional dermatologic and aesthetic treatments.
• Mary Kay Clinical Solutions® Barrier Restore 1:1:3 provides fast-acting skin barrier repair support and visible redness relief in one formula. Working hand in hand with a favorite moisturizer, this exclusive Barrier Restore Technology formulated mimics the skin barrier’s natural lipid ratio to replenish the key components that help keep the skin barrier strong, keeping out pollutants and bacteria while retaining critical moisture and nutrients. If you know anyone who suffers from skin redness, dryness, itching, rough texture, or overall sensitivity, tell them to give this wonderful product a try!

^{The Mary Kay Clinical Solutions® skincare line (Photo Courtesy: Mary Kay Inc.)}

Did You Know:

• Topping the charts: In 2025, Mary Kay was named the #1 Direct Selling Brand of Skin Care and Color Cosmetics in the World^[3] by Euromonitor International for the third consecutive year. Mary Kay has just ranked #2 on the Forbes Best Customer Service Companies 2026 List and ranked #9 on the Forbes Best Brand for Social Impact 2025 List.
• Women-led: 62% of our global Research & Development team is led by women and 81% of our Global Brand Marketing & Creative Design Studio team is made up of women.
• World-class manufacturing: Mary Kay’s Richard R. Rogers Manufacturing and R&D facility in Lewisville, Texas features 20 product-packaging lines & the capability to produce up to 1 million units per day.

Learn more about Mary Kay products here.

***

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.
 

^{[1] “Source Euromonitor International Limited; Beauty and Personal Care 2025 Edition, value sales at RSP, 2024 data”}

^{[2] The Mary Kay Clinical Solutions® Barrier Restore 1:1:3 launched in the U.S. and will be rolling out into the international markets in 2026 and beyond.}

^{[3] “Source Euromonitor International Limited; Beauty and Personal Care 2025 Edition, value sales at RSP, 2024 data”}

CHARLESTON, S.C., February 24, 2026 /3BL/ – The City of Charleston in partnership with the national Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund (CFE Fund) announced the grand opening of Charleston’s Financial Empowerment Center (FEC), offering professional, one-on-one financial counseling and coaching as a free public service to the local community.

At the Charleston FEC, professionally trained financial counselors help individuals and families with low and moderate incomes manage their finances, pay down debt, increase savings, establish and build credit, protect assets, prepare for legacy planning and access safe and affordable mainstream banking products.

At the core of the FEC model is the integration of counseling into other social services, such as housing and foreclosure prevention, workforce development, benefits access, domestic violence services, and more. Charleston FEC services are offered to the public through close partnership with local nonprofit, Increasing HOPE, an established financial training center with over 20 years of experience in the community. Residents can access Charleston FEC services by visiting www.Charleston-sc.gov/FEC. The national FEC initiative is funded by a $1 million grant from the Wells Fargo Foundation, along with support from other generous partners.

“At Wells Fargo, we are committed to opening pathways to economic advancement and helping to build stronger communities,” said Kristy Fercho, Head of Financial Inclusion and Opportunity at Wells Fargo. “Our support of Charleston’s Financial Empowerment Center is a tangible way to help individuals and families strengthen their financial futures.”

“Local leaders know first-hand the connection between family financial stability and community financial stability – and this connection is especially important during the current crisis,” said Jonathan Mintz, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund. “Mayor Cogswell and the City of Charleston is part of a growing national movement to bring free, high-quality financial counseling as a public service to their residents; we are proud to partner with Mayor Cogswell to help residents work towards a stronger financial future.”

About the FEC Movement

First piloted in New York City under Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg in 2008, FECs across the country have worked with over 200,000 clients, helping them reduce individual debt by over $344 million, and increasing their families’ savings by more than $69 million. In addition, a CFE Fund evaluation showed that this program works even for residents with very low incomes and other complex financial challenges. The City of Charleston is one of over two dozen local governments working to launch a local FEC initiative. The Charleston FEC is supported by the CFE Fund, Wells Fargo, JP Morgan Chase, and Pinnacle Financial.

About the Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund (CFE Fund)

The CFE Fund supports municipal efforts to improve the financial stability of households by leveraging opportunities unique to local government. By translating cutting edge experience with large scale programs, research, and policy in cities of all sizes, the CFE Fund assists mayors and other local leaders to identify, develop, fund, implement, and research pilots and programs that help families build assets and make the most of their financial resources. The CFE Fund is currently working in over 150 cities and counties, and has disbursed over $75 million to city governments and their partners to support these efforts. For more information, please visit www.cfefund.org or follow us on Twitter at @CFEFund.

For further information, please contact Macy Adams at adamsm@charleston-sc.gov.

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DETROIT, February 24, 2026 /3BL/ – Comcast announced it has awarded a $50,000 grant to St. Patrick Senior Center, Detroit’s largest community organization dedicated to supporting the health and wellness of adults over the age of 55.

The grant will enhance St. Patrick Senior Center’s Digital Technology Program, which helps older adults build confidence and skills to navigate today’s digital world. The program provides training in basic digital literacy, job readiness, and access to essential online resources, while introducing immersive experiences that foster social connections.

“Technology is no longer a luxury — it’s a lifeline for many of our residents,” said SaTrice Coleman-Betts, Executive Director of St. Patrick Senior Center. “This grant from Comcast will enable us to empower older adults with the digital skills they need to stay connected, access critical resources, and explore new opportunities. Together, we’re breaking down barriers and ensuring that age is never a limitation to learning or thriving in a digital world.”

Open to Detroit and surrounding communities, the program serves residents aged 55 and older and offers instruction on staying socially connected, accessing benefits and basic needs resources, preparing for employment opportunities, and using mobile technology. Participants also gain knowledge about broadband services and access to updated devices.

“Comcast has deep roots in Detroit, and we’re committed to investing in programs that strengthen this community,” said Ben Miller, Executive Director of Government and Community Affairs for Comcast Michigan. “Our partnership with St. Patrick Senior Center reflects that commitment —helping older adults gain the digital skills they need to stay connected, access vital resources, and embrace new opportunities. Together, we’re building a more connected Detroit for generations to come.”

This grant is a part of Project UP, Comcast’s $1 billion commitment to expand internet access, deliver digital skills training, and drive economic mobility.

About St. Patrick Senior Center
St. Patrick Senior Center is Detroit’s largest health and wellness center for older adults. Located in Midtown, over 3,300 older adults from Detroit and the surrounding communities receive services to support them aging in place. Recognizing digital literacy and adoption is essential, St. Patrick Senior Center’s services are offered at over five community sites and increases immersive experiences such as virtual reality to help keep them connected to the digital world.

About Comcast Corporation 
Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information.