The University of Arkansas Clinton School Center on Community Philanthropy recently joined a partnership to launch the inaugural session of Higher Purpose Academy (HPA), an innovative community empowerment program for minority millennials in the Mississippi Delta. The academy took place on February 6 at Coahoma Community College in Clarksdale, MS. Tim Lampkin, resident of Clarksdale, founded Higher Purpose Academy. “I believe we are developing a best practice model to engage our minority millennials on several topics for the future such as advocacy, racial equity, financial literacy, and much more. Our aim is to empower people and provide resources to the next generation throughout the poorest region,” said Lampkin.
The Academy was offered for free to low to moderate income individuals ages 18- 35. The first session covered topics such as entrepreneurship, building and protecting your brand, networking, and community/economic empowerment. Seventy-five area residents participated. Julian Mitchell, an award-winning brand marketer, instructor and multimedia journalist, was the keynote speaker. “The Center on Community Philanthropy is proud of the partnership with Higher Purpose Academy as they empower minority millennials in the Mississippi Delta,” said Dr. Charlotte Williams, director of the Center on Community Philanthropy. “Knowledge sharing, community mobilization, and civic participation will help cultivate the next great leaders in the Delta region.”
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