Leading the Charge: Shaping Black Opportunity through Civic Leadership and Community Empowerment
In a world where systemic inequities persist, the power of civic leadership and community empowerment has never been more essential. This piece delves deep into the dynamic journey of how proactive individuals and organizations are pioneering efforts to reshape opportunities for Black communities. It examines the pivotal role of civic leaders—those who tirelessly advocate for policy changes, spearhead local initiatives, and mentor the next generation of changemakers. By highlighting the transformative impact of grassroots movements, collaborative projects, and policy reforms, this piece underscores the importance of collective action in driving societal progress. Through inspiring narratives and actionable insights, we explore how cultivating strong, empowered communities can pave the way for equitable opportunities, fostering an environment where every individual has the chance to thrive.
Please join us in welcoming our Keynote Speaker to Duke Sanford and Durham, NC!
Mayor Karen Williams Weaver
Former Mayor of Flint, Michigan
Dr. Weaver was born and raised in Flint, Michigan. She attended Flint public schools and graduated from Flint Northern High School, after graduation, she attended University of Michigan-Flint before transferring to Tougaloo College in Tougaloo, Mississippi where she graduated with her Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Psychology.
She obtained a Master of Arts (MA) degree in Applied Psychology from Long Island University in Brooklyn, NY, followed by a Ph.D. in Child and Family Clinical Psychology from Michigan State University with a specialization in pediatric psychology,
Karen Williams Weaver served as the first female Mayor of the City of Flint from November 2015 until November 2019. While serving as Flint’s mayor, she was 2nd Vice President of the African American Mayors Association and on the Advisory Board of the US Conference of Mayors. In December 2019, U.S. presidential candidate Michael Bloomberg selected her to be a surrogate for his campaign, as did Presidential candidate Hillary Clinton in 2016.
Following her tenure as Mayor, she continued her commitment and passion for community and economic justice for black and brown residents and underserved populations. She continued using her voice on the popular radio station 910 am Superstation as the host of a new show called “Karen About Flint”. She was also tapped to become the Interim Executive Director for the African American Mayors Association where she is currently serving.
In 2016 she created the Karen Williams Weaver Foundation (KWWF). KWWF is a national voice of advocacy for communities to garner resources necessary to rebuild infrastructure in a way that protects health, creates economic opportunities, and safeguards the fundamental right to safe and affordable water.
She is also a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and a lifelong member of Vernon Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church (AMEC). Dr. Karen Williams Weaver has received many awards and honors.
Dr. Karen Williams Weaver says, “my philosophy of life is I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13). From a child up, my parents always inspired me to be a leader, and stand up for what I believe in. They taught me the importance of having God in your life first and foremost, love of family, and being active in your community.”
She has been married for over 37 years to Dr. Wrex A. Weaver, III. He is a second-generation dentist in the City of Flint. They are the proud parents of three adult children, Adrienne Marie, Alanna Nicole, and Douglas Quentin, and granddaughter Brooke Lynn.