Tag: 3BL

By Candace Higginbotham | April 10, 2025

Regions associates often contribute their subject-matter expertise outside the bank on a volunteer basis – a kind of community side hustle.

The Regions Making Life Better Institute® (MLBI) hosts a few programs that take advantage of the vast in-house knowledge and experience at the bank. One example is the Regions Skills in Service® volunteer program, which matches the talents of associates with specific needs of community partners to provide assistance where it’s needed most.

Another important program is the MLBI’s Important Insights for Nonprofits webinar series. In this series, Regions associates with background and experience in specific areas participate in informational seminars, addressing topics that are important for nonprofit leaders as they fulfill their mission.

“It’s important to us to listen to our community partners and understand their challenges and opportunities.”
Leroy Abrahams, Regions head of Community Engagement

“It’s important to us to listen to our community partners and understand their challenges and opportunities,” said Leroy Abrahams, head of Community Engagement at Regions. “Then we can help with solutions, whether that’s financial, or providing volunteer support or technical assistance. Making smart investments that will directly benefit people in our communities is a great use of our resources.”

The most recent Important Insights webinar featured Miguel Encarnação, head of Data Visualization at Regions, which is part of the Technology, Operations, Digital and Data division.

Encarnação has spent more than 25 years in technology and innovation roles across corporate, nonprofit and academic fields.

He currently leads a team of Regions data visualization developers that work to design and develop visual front-ends of data products that help stakeholders detect, explore, and understand trends and patterns.

For this webinar, Encarnação presented information about data storytelling – taking data and creating a visually compelling story for greater understanding and impact. Though this particular presentation was targeted to nonprofits, Encarnação said that everyone, in any industry or role, can benefit from learning how to better utilize data to communicate to their stakeholders.

What is Data Storytelling?

Data is everywhere, it’s at the core of every business, according to Encarnação, and that’s a good thing. “Data driven companies make better decisions, increase margins, reach goals quicker,” he said. “It’s important to create value from all the data we have to justify the investment in its collection, management, and governance.”

Data storytelling gives visual form to information and numbers to communicate complex narratives more effectively.

Humans process visual information quicker and easier, with greater retention. By incorporating graphics and other visual tools and techniques, data can be reimagined to help people understand and trust complex concepts and encourage them to take action.

“Data storytelling can be fun and engaging when you do it right,” Encarnação said. “But it’s based on a thoughtful and complex process of translating data into understandable terms to inform a business decision, action or to engage an audience.”

Why Data Storytelling is Important for Nonprofits

Data is especially critical for nonprofits. Communicating performance and outlining how they execute their mission is key for these organizations. No matter their size or scope, community organizations produce reports, create websites and generate materials targeted to their boards, donors, community members, corporate partners, government agencies, grant makers and funders.

Numbers and statistics are a big part of those materials. But numbers on a page don’t tell a story. To effectively engage with the audience and communicate a message that inspires action, data storytelling can be a helpful tool.

Nearly 240 people from more than 160 community organizations across the Regions footprint attended the virtual meeting to learn more how to bring numbers and data to life to tell an accurate, well-researched story.

“In today’s world where we are surrounded by so much information, sifting through it to find what is meaningful, truthful and actionable is a challenge,” said Gina Sian, head of the Regions Making Life Better Institute. “At the webinar, we were excited to learn alongside our community leaders about ways that each of our organizations can be intentional and thoughtful in leveraging data to affect change.”

“At the webinar, we were excited to learn alongside our community leaders about ways that each of our organizations can be intentional and thoughtful in leveraging data to affect change.”
Gina Sian, head of the Regions Making Life Better Institute

How to Tell Your Story Using Data

For effective visual presentations of data, Encarnação encouraged the webinar participants to first think through the message they want to convey, understand the audience and their interests and values, and then determine the relevant data to communicate.

Data enables you to base actions on facts, and trust and credibility are vital. It’s very important to present truthful information that does not mislead. Encarnação encouraged the audience to be vigilant about “graphical integrity” — using the right graphic in the right situation and showing what really matters. He cautioned about omitting or reducing certain information to make your point.

Then think through the appropriate way to communicate the information. Some key takeaways:

• Convey insight, not data. Make sure you’re explaining the information, not forcing your audience to analyze and interpret. Action items or summaries are helpful tools.
• Focus on the message and select graphics that best communicate what’s important.
• Combine multiple perspectives for clarity, so the audience can easily consume and understand your recommendation.
• Drive action, not speculation. Reducing data to what’s important and interpreting it for the audience enables them to take action.
• Design for consumability and comprehension. Simplify the information when possible.
• Avoid meaningless visuals. Decode complex information for your audience and tell them what should be done about this data. Encarnação recommends this tactic to shorten meetings!

Encarnação outlined different genres or design patterns, such as flow charts, video, slide shows, charts and comic strips. Each of these formats communicate experiences using data and can be used effectively for different messages and audiences.

As a wrap-up, Encarnação introduced some best practices with a quote from expert Stephen Few: “Numbers have an important story to tell, and they rely on you to give them a clear and convincing voice.”

• Avoid distractions: Don’t obstruct effective decision making by drawing attention to the wrong data, skewing visual perception, introducing bias or distracting from data and message.
• Support the focus and avoid TMI: “Information abundance might work for analysis, but not for communicating insight,” according to Encarnação.
• Avoid inappropriate visuals: Make sure graphics are the right fit for what you’re communicating.
• Eliminate poorly designed dashboards and analytical displays: Bad design makes for difficult decision-making. More is not necessarily better!
• Misleading visuals introduce risk and undermine credibility.
• Use color thoughtfully: Overcoding can be confusing, don’t be afraid to limit to one color. Poor color choice and use can create more confusion than clarity.

Based on feedback from nonprofit leaders, this was a topic they’re very interested in, and the tips and best practices will be put to good use. Yvonne Kilama, development manager for IndyGo Foundation, an Indianapolis-based nonprofit that helps connect people to accessible public transportation solutions, said the webinar exceeded her expectations.

“The techniques and best practices shared will directly influence how we communicate complex information within our organization,” Kilama said. “The skills and knowledge gained from the training will be invaluable in shaping how we present data-driven insights across teams and to external stakeholders.”

SEOUL, South Korea – On April 28, 2025, Direct Relief formally accepted the 2025 Seoul Peace Prize, one of the world’s most distinguished honors for humanitarian achievement, in recognition of the organization’s unwavering commitment to aiding people affected by poverty, disasters, and conflict.

“Peace is not just about the absence of conflict, but the presence of dignity, opportunity, and hope for all people,” said Dr. Byron Scott, Chief Executive Officer of Direct Relief, at the award ceremony today in Seoul. “This is what Direct Relief strives to create through our work—by ensuring everyone, regardless of where they live or their ability to pay, has access to the healthcare they need to live full and healthy lives.”

Established in 1990 to commemorate the Seoul Olympic Games, the Seoul Peace Prize recognizes individuals and organizations making significant global contributions to peace, development, and human welfare. Direct Relief, the 17th laureate, joins distinguished previous awardees such as Kofi Annan, Václav Havel, Ban Ki Moon, and Doctors Without Borders.

“It is with great sincerity that I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Direct Relief, an international medical relief organization, on being named laureate of the Seoul Peace Prize 2025, an award of deep and lasting significance,” said Jaeho Yeom, Chairman of the Seoul Peace Prize Cultural Foundation. “Direct Relief has exemplified true humanitarianism by providing medicines and medical supplies around the world—not through temporary aid, but sustained, patient-focused support uniquely tailored to each region. By maintaining the highest financial transparency and relying solely on private donations, Direct Relief maximizes the impact of giving, delivering medical assistance precisely where it’s most urgently needed.”

In presenting the prize, Christopher Koo, Chairman of the Seoul Peace Prize Selection Committee, underscored the urgency of Direct Relief’s work:

“The current global landscape, regrettably, continues to challenge our relentless efforts toward peace. In particular, countless victims of war and natural disasters are dying due to the lack of access to essential medicines and medical supplies. … Direct Relief was highly regarded for its unwavering commitment over the past 76 years to advancing peace through medical aid. The organization has quietly but powerfully carried out its mission to deliver healthcare where it is most needed.”

Since 2000, Direct Relief has delivered more than $16 billion in medical assistance to 136 countries and every U.S. state.

“This prize is a reminder that peace begins in the most fundamental way—in supporting the health and well-being of every person,” Dr. Scott concluded. “This is the peace we aim to foster every day.”

Click to continue reading highlights from Dr. Scott’s acceptance speech.

CHARLOTTE, N.C., May 5, 2025 /3BL/ – Discovery Education today announced the recipients of the second annual Discovery Education Awards. The Discovery Education Awards honor districts, schools, and educators who accelerate achievement among students by inspiring curiosity and connecting learning to the world beyond the classroom.

The Discovery Education Awards recognize those who have positively impacted student learning by adapting and personalizing instruction to better pique curiosity and engagement. Recipients were selected through a competitive nomination and application process, which highlighted entrants’ commitment to fostering student growth.

The recipients of the 2025 Discovery Education Awards are:

Districts of the Year

• Baldwin County Public Schools – Alabama
• Los Angeles Unified School District – California
• Nash County Public Schools – North Carolina

Schools of the Year

• Autism Inspired Academy – Florida
• Montana Digital Academy – Montana
• Fairfield Career and Technology Center – South Carolina

Educators of the Year

• Annissa Grimes, Friendly High School, Prince George’s County Public Schools – Maryland
• Josephine Mesina, International High School at Largo, Prince George’s County Public Schools – Maryland
• Dr. Sequoyah Wharton, Brentwood High School, Brentwood Union Free School District – New York
• Emma DeVine, St. Andrews Episcopal School – Texas
• Seyyed Sharifi, Hartvigsen School, Granite School District – Utah

To learn more about each of these distinguished winners, visit the Discovery Education Awards website here.

Discovery Education is the creator of essential K-12 learning solutions used in classrooms around the world. Serving 4.5 million educators and 45 million students worldwide, Discovery Education helps educators inspire student curiosity through award-winning multimedia content, instructional supports, innovative classroom tools, and corporate partnerships.

“The districts, schools, and educators honored with this year’s Discovery Education Awards have gone above and beyond the call of duty to drive the academic success of all learners,” said Brian Shaw, Chief Executive Officer of Discovery Education. “Congratulations to all those recognized in this year’s awards program. Discovery Education is proud to work alongside you on our joint mission to accelerate student growth, scale teacher impact, and motivate learning.”

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

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

Contacts
Grace Maliska
Discovery Education
Email: gmaliska@dicoveryed.com

NEW ORLEANS, May 5, 2025 /3BL/ – Entergy experienced a transformational year in 2024 and there’s additional growth potential for our company and region in the year ahead, Chair and Chief Executive Officer Drew Marsh told shareholders during Entergy’s 76th annual meeting on Friday, May 2.

“Fundamentally, we believe all our stakeholders have a bright future ahead, and Entergy is championing a better future through fostering growth within our service area and investment in cleaner, more reliable and more resilient energy,” said Marsh.

Entergy is focused on initiatives to improve outcomes and deliver value for all our stakeholders, including capturing customer growth, resolving key regulatory priorities, creating opportunities for employees, making the energy grid more resilient, continuing to enhance our restoration response for our communities, furthering progress on renewable energy, and building generation resources to meet customer-driven needs.

Marsh highlighted several business achievements in 2024:

• “We continued to see strong industrial customer growth, fueled by the competitive advantages of our region. Last year, both Entergy Mississippi and Entergy Louisiana signed electric service agreements with hyperscale data center customers. These new customers bring significant value to our stakeholders, including good jobs, infrastructure improvements and tax revenues for our communities.”
   
• “Driven by customer interest, we continued to make progress in advancing renewable energy and other clean technology solutions. We brought more than 700 megawatts of solar resources online last year.”
   
• “Our commitment to corporate social responsibility had a positive impact in 2024, resulting in an economic impact of over $153 million for our customers and communities. Our dedicated employees played a pivotal role in our economic impact, contributing more than 122,000 hours of volunteer service valued at more than $4 million across our service area.”
   
• Serving as a founding partner of the New Orleans Super Bowl LIX Host Committee, Entergy strengthened our stakeholder engagements leading up to the big game. “In partnership with the Host Committee, the New Orleans Saints, the NFL Foundation and other philanthropic organizations, we created the charitable legacy program, Impact 59 Powered by Entergy. Through Impact 59, we awarded more than $3.5 million in impactful grants to local nonprofit organizations. This program is making a positive impact in the Greater New Orleans community and has left a legacy of philanthropy that will endure long after the Super Bowl ends.”
   
• “Finally, we effectuated a 2-for-1 stock split and again delivered strong adjusted earnings per share growth last year, in the top half of our guidance range. We also grew our quarterly dividend per share by approximately 6% and, importantly, we continued to make positive progress on our credit metrics in 2024, which provides financial flexibility as well as long-term customer benefits through lower cost of capital.”

Explore Entergy’s 2024 Performance Report to learn about our latest progress and the growth opportunities ahead.

Other business

Additional business conducted during Friday’s meeting:

• Entergy shareholders elected all 10 director nominees to the company’s board of directors.
   
• Two management proposals related to the appointment of the company’s independent public accountants and executive compensation were voted on and approved by shareholders.
   
• Marsh responded to several shareholder questions on a range of topics, including the growth potential for data centers and new industrial customers for the Entergy region, our progress on hardening the energy grid for severe weather events, potential tariff impacts on our operations, and how the company is integrating artificial intelligence into its operations.

A replay of Entergy’s annual shareholders meeting and responses to questions asked during the meeting will be published on our Investor Relations website this week.

About Entergy

Entergy (NYSE: ETR) produces, transmits and distributes electricity to power life for 3 million customers through our operating companies in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. We’re investing for growth and improved reliability and resilience of our energy system while working to keep energy rates affordable for our customers. We’re also investing in cleaner energy generation like modern natural gas, nuclear and renewable energy. A nationally recognized leader in sustainability and corporate citizenship, we deliver more than $100 million in economic benefits each year to the communities we serve through philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy. Entergy was a founding partner of the Host Committee for Super Bowl LIX played in New Orleans, Louisiana, the home of Entergy’s corporate headquarters. A Fortune 500 company, Entergy has approximately 12,000 employees. Learn more at entergy.com and connect with @Entergy on social media.

Cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements

In this news release, and from time to time, Entergy Corporation makes certain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements regarding Entergy’s 2025 earnings guidance; financial and operational outlooks; industrial load growth outlooks; statements regarding its climate transition and resilience plans, goals, beliefs, or expectations; and other statements of Entergy’s plans, beliefs, or expectations included in this news release. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this news release. Except to the extent required by the federal securities laws, Entergy undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements, including (a) those factors discussed elsewhere in this news release and in Entergy’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, any subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and Entergy’s other reports and filings made under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; (b) uncertainties associated with (1) rate proceedings, formula rate plans, and other cost recovery mechanisms, including the risk that costs may not be recoverable to the extent or on the timeline anticipated by the utilities and (2) implementation of the ratemaking effects of changes in law; (c) uncertainties associated with (1) realizing the benefits of its resilience plan, including impacts of the frequency and intensity of future storms and storm paths, as well as the pace of project completion and (2) efforts to remediate the effects of major storms and recover related restoration costs; (d) risks associated with operating nuclear facilities, including plant relicensing, operating, and regulatory costs and risks; (e) changes in decommissioning trust values or earnings or in the timing or cost of decommissioning Entergy’s nuclear plant sites; (f) legislative and regulatory actions and risks and uncertainties associated with claims or litigation by or against Entergy and its subsidiaries; (g) risks and uncertainties associated with executing on business strategies, including (1) strategic transactions that Entergy or its subsidiaries may undertake and the risk that any such transaction may not be completed as and when expected and the risk that the anticipated benefits of the transaction may not be realized, and (2) Entergy’s ability to meet the rapidly growing demand for electricity, including from hyperscale data centers and other large customers, and to manage the impacts of such growth on customers and Entergy’s business, or the risk that contracted or expected load growth does not materialize or is not sustained; (h) direct and indirect impacts to Entergy or its customers from pandemics, terrorist attacks, geopolitical conflicts, cybersecurity threats, data security breaches, or other attempts to disrupt Entergy’s business or operations, and/or other catastrophic events; and (i) effects on Entergy or its customers of (1) changes in federal, state, or local laws and regulations and other governmental actions or policies, including changes in monetary, fiscal, tax, environmental, international trade, or energy policies; (2) changes in commodity markets, capital markets, or economic conditions; and (3) technological change, including the costs, pace of development, and commercialization of new and emerging technologies. 

Investor inquiries:
Liz Hunter
504-576-3294
ehunte1@entergy.com 

Media inquiries:
Neal Kirby
504-576-4238
nkirby@entergy.com

Published by Action Against Hunger.

NEW YORK and JERUSALEM, May 5, 2025 /3BL/ – Today marks two months since the blockade of humanitarian aid entering Gaza, and Action Against Hunger’s food supplies is expected to last three weeks in the north and two weeks in the south. Of all partners of the United Nations’ World Food Programme, which announced that it ran out of food on April 25th, Action Against Hunger is one of few to have remaining supplies in northern Gaza. “We have been forced to prioritize and distribute aid based on the degree of need,” says an Action Against Hunger worker in Gaza. “This is a very difficult measure, as it means some families do not receive aid despite facing emergency circumstances. At times, children’s needs for nutritional supplements have exceeded the stock available to our nutrition programs.”

Humanitarian organizations have more than 171,000 metric tons of food stocks — enough for three to four months of food rations for the entire 2.1-million-person population — waiting to be granted access into Gaza. “Humanitarian aid remains the primary food source for 80% of households in Gaza while food production and food systems are severely weakened,” explains Natalia Anguera, Head of Operations in the Middle East for Action Against Hunger. “That means that if the entry of humanitarian aid continues to be blocked, 8 out of 10 families in Gaza won’t be able to access food.”

Action Against Hunger and other organizations are witnessing an increase of families adopting strategies to stretch remaining supplies from past aid distributions; for example, mixing crushed macaroni with flour, reducing size and frequency of meals, and limiting daily bread consumption to one piece per family member or reserving it for children. However, it is not enough to meet nutritional needs. “The lack of food, clean water, and medicine is causing child malnutrition to increase, leading to stunting,” alerts Anguera. “Afflicted children need sufficient quality and quantity of nutrients to survive.”

No aid entry for 60 days has pushed the Palestinian population to extreme levels of vulnerability. Without an immediate opening of all border crossings and lifting of the siege, the crisis could reach unforeseen levels. Action Against Hunger continues to provide vital assistance, but the entry of aid supplies will be essential to sustaining programs. “Parties to the conflict and the international community must not wait to act until famine is declared. By that time, we will have collectively failed to stop preventable deaths from happening,”

Immediate entry and distribution of humanitarian aid is imperative 

Nearly two-thirds of Gaza is now inaccessible due to continued displacement orders and hostilities. “Repeated displacement orders have caused instability and tensions, hampering our access to targeted areas and impacting the timely delivery of aid,” Anguera says. Action Against Hunger needs full and unhindered access to all parts of Gaza, as is in line with international law, to conduct critical interventions. “Hunger and humanitarian aid must never be used as bargaining chips,” insists Anguera.

At this critical time, Action Against Hunger reaffirms its commitment to supporting the people of Gaza. “We are doing our best to continue providing vital services,” says anonymous Action Against Hunger worker in Gaza. “The nutrition team continues to make significant efforts, especially for pregnant and lactating women, and to provide them with practical guidance so they can take care of their health and that of their children in these harsh conditions. But the situation is becoming more complex by the day. We sincerely hope for an urgent response that will support our efforts and enable us to meet the growing needs, especially among the most vulnerable groups.”

Action Against Hunger and calls on governments and international organizations to act decisively to alleviate the suffering of millions of people. The organization calls for the immediate entry and distribution of humanitarian aid governed by humanitarian principles, the release of all hostages, and a permanent ceasefire. It is essential that the needs of Gaza’s 2.1 million people are prioritized, and obligations required by international humanitarian law are met.

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Action Against Hunger has been assisting the population in Gaza for more than 20 years. Responding to the escalating crisis, our teams have mobilized to provide hot meals and fresh and dry food, distribute hygiene kits, connect people with shelters, and truck clean water into communities. Since the start of the conflict, under restricted access and frequent blackouts, Action Against Hunger has assisted more than one million people in Gaza and the West Bank.

Facing challenges like job loss, isolation or addiction can push anyone to their limits. Carrie knows this first hand – after a violent incident, she found herself caught in a cycle of emergency room visits with no clear path forward.

While some are fortunate to have the support of a caring community, others are not as lucky. The Boehringer Ingelheim Cares Foundation (Boehringer Cares), along with its nonprofit partners, is dedicated to transforming lives through essential healthcare initiatives.

From providing critical medical care and nutritious food to supporting the unique bond between humans and animals, Boehringer Cares addresses vital needs. Through partnerships with organizations like Nuvance Health Foundations and Feeding America, individuals like Carrie receive assistance – ensuring that both people and pets receive the care they need.

Learn how Boehringer Cares is committed to improving the well-being of communities across the U.S., one compassionate act at a time in Imagine: our sustainability story hub.

Imagine a world where innovation meets sustainability and explore our sustainability story hub here: Imagine – sustainability story hub | Boehringer Ingelheim

Originally published on U.S. Bank company blog

Last year, amid the festivities for the 2024 graduating seniors at Florence Crittenton High School, a team from U.S. Bank was there to open bank accounts for some 20 graduating seniors, and each was given a $250 check to fund the newly opened accounts.

The new accounts were a part of a broader financial literacy initiative provided by U.S. Bank to cover the basics of banking for the students at the Denver nonprofit Florence Crittenton Services (FloCrit), a two-generation wraparound service provider for teen mothers that offers a Denver Public School system high school for the mothers and an early childhood education center for their children.

“It was an incredible experience for our graduating seniors and an impactful event to ensure they were prepared to take the next step,” said Theresa Garcia, FloCrit director of development. “One of our goals at Florence Crittenton is to prepare these young women to succeed, and how much can you really do in the world without a bank account? Being able to give them that opportunity, show them how online banking works, how to log in into the app and how to keep personal information safe is important.”

Financial education efforts like the senior bank account day are among the reasons FloCrit will recognize U.S. Bank with the 2025 Charles Crittenton Community Partner Award, given annually to an individual or institution that supports the work of Florence Crittenton Services, at a gala later this month.

“FloCrit has been a U.S. Bank Foundation grantee for over a decade, but the efforts outside of financial contributions have made this a true partnership,” said Marcia Romero, community affairs manager at U.S. Bank. “They do such an incredible job in the way they empower their students, creating a culture of belonging and inclusivity. We’re proud to fit into their programming in an authentic way.”

Reloadable card program

FloCrit has provided direct cash assistance to families for many years via a combination of petty cash and gift cards for needs like gas, food and parenting supplies. During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the program faced challenges including the inability to see students in person to provide funds in a pinch.

FloCrit brought the problem to U.S. Bank, which was able to provide a solution through a reloadable debit card program that allowed FloCrit to load funds onto the cards, get them in the hands of the students and reload them as needed.

“Our staff quickly delivered the cards throughout the Metro area,” Garcia said. “Whenever there was a need, a student could talk to their family advocate, who would put in a request for more funds. It made everything so much simpler.”

Aside from the flexibility the cards provided, they were also a natural opportunity to teach the students basic financial literacy skills.

“It was a great experience to teach the students how to use a debit card, budgeting and accountability,” Garcia said. “Financial education for young people opened up so many more opportunities for us.”

The nonprofit still uses the card program, giving each student a card that they can use at stores, withdraw funds at ATMs and reload as needed. U.S. Bank community affairs manager Marcia Romero, an advocate for the program, attributes the program’s success to the partnership with the bank’s business lines to quickly solve the problem.

“U.S. Bank has always had an open and transparent relationship with FloCrit, so when they came to us with the challenges of delivering funds, we quickly got to work,” Romero said. “I made a few phone calls to our bankers, and we were able to get things in place in just a few weeks. There were some hurdles, but I am proud of the way we rallied together to get these students and teen mothers the financial resources they needed at a time when they needed them most.”

A Full Circle Moment

At the 2024 graduating senior bank account day event was Gina Chavez, manager of a U.S. Bank branch in south Denver and a Florence Crittenton graduate herself.

Before joining U.S. Bank 30 years ago, Chavez was pregnant with her daughter and facing the challenges of a mother-to-be while trying to finish her schooling when she learned about FloCrit.

“With everything going on at the time, I knew how important it was to finish my high school education,” Chavez said. “It wasn’t only meaningful for me, but for the future of my baby. Florence Crittenton provided me the support I needed, whether that was through education, the nurses on staff, free baby supplies and lessons that prepared me to succeed in my career.”

Chavez said her career at U.S. Bank is a testament to the doors that FloCrit opened for her, and she feels love and passion for both organizations.

Chavez said she recently opened accounts for a current third-year student at FloCrit.

“I asked her what her plans were after graduation and how she wanted to utilize these accounts,” Chavez said. “The young woman told me said she wanted to get into nursing to help deliver babies and purchase her first car. I knew she was on the right path.”

CLEVELAND, May 5, 2025 /3BL/ — KeyBank (NYSE: KEY) has introduced the Certified Cash Flow Advisor Program, marking a significant advancement in its commitment to deliver differentiated solutions and advice for small-to-midsize businesses. The certification program is reshaping business banking by focusing on a consultative approach that empowers owner-operators in addressing their complex financial needs.

Launched in 2024, the Program arms KeyBank professionals with a framework for engaging business owners in meaningful discussions – called ‘Key Conversations’ – offering structured, yet flexible advice on how to tackle critical cash flow and financial challenges and better optimize operations.

Rooted in a deep understanding of each owner’s specific business needs, advisors provide tailored solutions that aim to improve efficiency and profitability in key areas, such as payments and receivables, invoicing, liquidity management, process automation, and fraud protection. By end of March 2025, ~900 KeyBank advisors have completed the rigorous certification process, with ~285 more advisors moving toward completion, demonstrating the bank’s substantial investment in elevating the advice KeyBank provides.

“This approach represents a fundamental shift in how we serve our business clients,” said Mike Walters, President of Business Banking at KeyBank. “Owner-operators are experts in their trade and serve as ‘chief everything officers’ for their business. Their time and attention are pulled in every direction and they are often without dedicated business support that could help them truly thrive. When we use the Key Conversation, we’re putting the client at the center, with a framework to understand how the money flows through their operation and where there may be opportunities to benefit from managing their collection and payable processes differently. Our Certified Cashflow Advisors work holistically across the business to reduce friction and free up time and capital so our clients can run stronger, more efficient businesses.”

KeyBank’s approach goes beyond traditional banking and offers strategic insights that help owner-operators make informed decisions to reach their financial goals. “This commitment to putting owner-operators first and delivering collaborative financial guidance marks a shift in how financial institutions serve small-to-midsize businesses, setting us apart from those who focus primarily on product-driven solutions,” said Walters.

By emphasizing an advice-driven philosophy, KeyBank aims to strengthen relationships with business owners and help them achieve long-term success in an increasingly complex financial landscape. To learn more about how KeyBank can serve your business, visit www.key.com/smallbusiness.

ABOUT KEYCORP

In 2025, KeyCorp celebrates its bicentennial, marking 200 years of service to clients and communities from Maine to Alaska. To learn more, visit KeyBank Heritage Center. Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, Key is one of the nation’s largest bank-based financial services companies, with assets of approximately $189 billion at March 31, 2025.

Key provides deposit, lending, cash management, and investment services to individuals and businesses in 15 states under the name KeyBank National Association through a network of approximately 1,000 branches and approximately 1,200 ATMs. Key also provides a broad range of sophisticated corporate and investment banking products, such as merger and acquisition advice, public and private debt and equity, syndications and derivatives to middle market companies in selected industries throughout the United States under the KeyBanc Capital Markets trade name. For more information, visit https://www.key.com/. KeyBank Member FDIC.

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All credit products are subject to collateral and/or credit approval, terms, conditions, availability and subject to change.

CFMA #250410-3149628

Earlier this week, AB in partnership with the Emerging Markets Investors Alliance (EMIA) and Societe Generale hosted the Impact and Blended Finance Conference. Over the course of the day, we heard from key industry leaders, asset owners and multilateral institutions on key trends in blended finance, opportunities in the space, outcome bonds and debt-for-nature swaps.

Learn more about AB’s approach to responsibility here.

 

Cummins

“The core value of teamwork at Cummins is very important to our culture.”
Shavonn Blueitt

It was seventh grade when Shavonn Blueitt received her first pair of Jordans. The powder blue and crisp white ‘University Blue’ Air Jordan 5s were pristinely clean without a single crease, and radiated power, dedication and top-tier attention to details. Originally introduced to the public in 1985 Jordans were designed to replicate the same ferocity and competitive technique Michael Jordan displayed on the court. Nike designer, Tinker Hatfield, even likened the shoe to an American WWII fighter plane.

For most kids, it would have just been another pair of cool shoes. For Shavonn, however, the Jordans were a catalyst for something even more powerful in her life.

Conversations with peers in school hallways quickly shifted from her Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita (AMC), a condition that affects muscle and joint development throughout the body, to a shared passion for sneaker culture and design.

“It was one of those things where, you know, people watch! You walk down the hallway and they’re like ‘Oh my gosh! You got those?’” Shavonn laughs. The new kicks weren’t a calculated tactic to be cool or join the cool kids club. It wasn’t about climbing the popularity latter. Shavonn sought a place of belonging and acceptance. “That was big for me growing up in high school.”

Shoes inspired by a record breaker broke down barriers for Shavonn and introduced her not only to lifelong friends, but to a world of visual expression. 

AMC may have prevented Shavonn from participating in sports, but she quickly directed her creative energy into art and academics. Art was an instant passion for Shavonn, something she remembers loving since she was young. Yet, it was and continues to be more than a passion. It serves as a connection to her older brother, Jerry Jr.

Jerry Jr. was passionate about art, with a talent for drawing. Though they were ten years apart in age, Shavonn mirrored her big brother, gravitating toward the activities, hobbies and passions he pursued. At just 21 years old, however, Jerry Jr. unexpectedly passed away in his sleep, reshaping eleven-year-old Shavonn’s future and family forever.

“He was so early into his career,” Shavonn shares. “He’s had a big impact on me having an interest in design…. In a sense, I’m trying to extend upon his legacy and the things that he was passionate about.” 

Shavonn did just that and pursued graphic design, receiving her bachelor’s degree from the Art Institute of Indianapolis. She is also a self-taught photographer and videographer, and while she never boasts about her successes, occasionally, and only after persistent inquiry, will Shavonn gently mention a project she’s worked on – photographing for the “Indiana Mike” Netflix Special, capturing behind-the-scenes moments at Babyface concerts and designing graphics for Gladys Knight performances. 

As her artistic pursuits evolved and flourished, Shavonn became more aware of design’s ability to tell stories and bring people together, something she had first recognized in sneaker culture and design. Throughout the years, Shavonn continued to feed her passion for sneakers as voraciously as she had graphic design. A self-dubbed ‘sneakerhead’, Shavonn’s personal collection of shoes grew but she wanted to take it to new heights. 

In the years she had been working in design, Shavonn had found a niche that had become a favorite. “As a graphic artist, color psychology and color combinations play a big role in my world,” she shares.

Shavonn decided to use her design skills in shoe design and began entering competitions for independent brands. Shavonn could apply her graphic design skills to create compelling colorways, or, in layman’s terms, different combinations of colors and patterns found on sneakers. Several of her designs have gone into production with independently owned-shoe companies.

“It’s a great feeling to know that hundreds or thousands of people are wearing my colorway on their feet every day.”

There is deep sense of pride Shavonn feels for her shoe designs and their contribution to the continuation of visual storytelling. Yet, it’s her role with Cummins Inc. that Shavonn says she’s most proud of, one that also has an invisible tether to Jerry Jr. who was working in the trucking industry at the time of his passing.

Today, Shavonn is a Content and Creative Communications Senior Specialist for Cummins’ engine business. She uses the transformative power of design to tell the story of another transformation: the company’s journey toward Destination Zero™. She creates graphics, animations and supports teams with visual needs that ultimately help customers understand complex technical product information in detail.

When working with Shavonn, her attention to detail and ability to understand the customer’s perspective is second to none. As much as she brings her design expertise to the table, she matches that with her dedication to customer experience. Shavonn can see the nuances of a creative asset that escapes most of us, yet she takes the time to educate her teammates and stakeholders within the process. Her commitment to excellence is palpable, whether she’s designing marketing materials or ensuring technical accuracy in marketing images.

“At the time [Shavonn joined Cummins], Destination Zero was just launching,” Shavonn states. “I like this role so much because of how the engineers and the marketers are helping shape what the future of our country and the global market in general looks like. So that, in itself, was really what pushed me to want to pursue [Cummins] despite not knowing anything about engines.” 

Shavonn makes technical excellence visually compelling in her work on Cummins HELM™ engine platforms, products a part of the company’s Destination Zero strategy. The platforms are designed to support customers on their unique paths toward reduced emissions. Shavonn’s design expertise not only brings products and their stories to life but does so in a way that makes the technology accessible and appealing to diverse audiences.  

“I love assisting my team with any projects that may come down our pipeline, and they also know that they can reach out to me for assistance because, in the process of helping my team, I also like explaining and teaching them new things about my world.” 

The transition to reduced emissions and alternative power technologies requires more than technical innovation – it needs storytellers who can help people, businesses and communities evolve and navigate the energy transition through ways that work for them and meet their needs. Shavonn’s journey at Cummins embodies the very transformation she helps communicate: the power of design can change perceptions, build connections and shape the future.  

Whether she’s creating graphics for the latest Cummins technology or creating color palettes for shoes that help people express themselves, Shavonn’s work demonstrates that the most powerful transitions often begin with helping people see possibilities they hadn’t imagined before.