"Black Women Rock!" models after 'Black Girls Rock!', which first aired on B.E.T. November 7th, 2010. Our program honors African-American women in Columbia, who are making a difference through giving back to the community and who serve as role models to young women. Black Women Rock! will also recognize those who have impacted the Columbia community with outstanding accomplishments. Three years ago, Dreana Johnson, a recent graduate of The University of Missouri, had a vision and created this exceptional event for our campus. Our committee is dedicated to carrying on the legacy of Ms. Johnson's vision.

 

In the past four years, Black Women Rock! has recognized over 70 women in the Columbia area, including Jill Young-Menears and Sonja Steptoe, both Mizzou alum. The 2013 Black Women Rock Recipient was Lyah Beth LeFlore, a New York Times bestselling author and member of the Stephens College Board of Trustees. Black Women Rock! also received statewide recognition in the Missouri State House of Representatives' Resolutions for our commitment to uplifting the Columbia community. Last year's speaker was Commissioner Mary E. Nelson.  She was the first African-American woman to be elected to partnership with Lashly & Baer. Commissioner Nelson is also a graduate of the Missouri School of Law.

 

The 2015 Black Women Rock! award recipient and keynote speaker [was] Ololade "Lola" Siyonbola, MU alumna, entrepreneur, holistic health advocate and poet.

 

 

-Mariah Brannan (2015 BWR! Coordinator)