Empowering Girls, Igniting Futures, Celebrating the International Day of the Girl & STEAM Career Exploration Sister to Sister International (STSI) proudly joined forces with the Westchester Children’s Association to celebrate the International Day of the Girl Conference on October 9 at Manhattanville College’s historic Reid Castle . The inspiring day brought together young women from across Westchester and the Hudson Valley, including students from the Charter School of Educational Excellence in Yonkers and North Rockland High School , to celebrate leadership, confidence, and opportunity. The keynote address was delivered by Lauren N. Morris , Founder and CEO of Loola Doola Boutique and Loola Doola Design & Manufacturing Inc. , who also serves as an STSI Board Member. Her story of entrepreneurship, creativity, and perseverance inspired attendees to embrace their power and purpose as future leaders. The conference also featured the interactive workshop “Code & Conduct, Real-World Etiquette for Future Leaders,” facilitated by Lydia K. Smith, MBA, STEAM Program Consultant at Sister to Sister International . Participants practiced real-world scenarios through role-plays and group challenges, learning how to make strong first impressions, communicate with confidence, and navigate digital spaces with integrity and grace. Later that month, STSI continued its commitment to empowerment through Igniting Potential, Discovering STEAM Career Paths , held on Saturday, October 18 at the Grinton I. Will Library in Yonkers. Moderated by Cheyenne Stephens , STSI STEAM Academy President, the event invited students to explore the exciting world of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) through hands-on activities and conversations with accomplished industry professionals. Featured speakers included: Dr. Chiatogu Onyewu , STSI Board Member and Senior Director, RGM Program Management & Operations, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Mara Calderon Guerra , STSI Board Member and Senior Director, PepsiCo Global R&D Beverages Sade Amazan, MBA , STSI Steering Committee Member and Vice President, Sponsorships & Brand Partnerships Marketing, J.P. Morgan Private Bank Together, these two powerful events reflect STSI’s mission to equip girls and young women with the skills, confidence, and exposure they need to thrive as scholars, innovators, and leaders shaping the future. Meet Our 2025–26 STSI STEAM Academy Student Leadership Team Sister to Sister International is proud to announce our newly elected STSI STEAM Program Student Leadership Team for the 2025–26 program year. Leading with passion, purpose, and pride, these young women are ready to amplify youth voices, inspire innovation, and model what it means to lead through sisterhood and service. President – Cheyenne Stephens An 11th grader at New Rochelle High School , Cheyenne brings creativity, poise, and a deep commitment to empowering girls in STEAM. Her focus this year is on strengthening mentorship opportunities and creating spaces for young women to explore leadership with confidence and curiosity. Vice President – Destiny Pierre A 9th grader at Cardinal Spellman High School , Destiny’s enthusiasm, energy, and insight shine in every space she enters. She is eager to help connect new members, build bridges across cohorts, and spark collaboration across our programs. Board of Representatives – Sagar Sarr Now a freshman at SUNY Geneseo , Sagar continues on the leadership team as a thoughtful and committed voice for her peers. Her perspective and creativity will be key in shaping youth-led initiatives and ensuring all STSI scholars are represented in our planning and programming. Together, these remarkable young women embody the spirit of “lifting as we climb.” We look forward to seeing how their leadership will continue to advance the mission of Sister to Sister International and the growth of our STEAM Sistahs community. Upcoming Events & Announcements Please RSVP for the following upcoming STSI STEAM Academy events: November 11th – Hiking Excursion , Anthony’s Nose Trail 22nd – Friendsgiving Luncheon , STSI Home Office Goals & Gatorade (Mandatory Session for All STEAM Participants) This month, all STEAM participants are required to attend one of two “Goals & Gatorade” sessions  designed to set personal and academic goals for the year. Personalized goal sheets will be shared via email in advance. Session 1 :  Tuesday, November 11 (No School) | 6:00–7:00 PM Session 2 :  Saturday, November 15 | 10:00–11:00 AM Please RSVP for the session your child will attend so we can prepare materials accordingly. December 13th – Code, Create, Survive: The Darwin DNA Challenge , Dolan DNA Learning Center 28th – Kwanzaa Celebration , NOMA Hotel Call to Action Ready to keep the momentum going? Invite Black girls and girls of color in your life to join the STSI STEAM Academy, kicking off October 2025. We offer year round tutoring, hands on industry trips, leadership workshops, and a sisterhood that lifts as it climbs. Send a quick email to lsmith@s2si.org to learn more or to get started today. Lydia K. Smith   STEAM Consultant and STEAM Camp Coordinator   Sister to Sister International   Dr. Cheryl Brannan   Founder and President   Sister to Sister International

Celebrating HBCU Pride at the 2025 Classic This September, our STEAM Sistahs had the unforgettable opportunity to attend the HBCU NY Classic at MetLife Stadium, thanks to the generous support of the NCNW Westchester Section . The game, featuring Howard vs. Morehouse , was more than just football—it was an immersive celebration of HBCU culture, community, and pride. From the electrifying halftime show and marching bands to the spirited energy in the stands, our girls experienced firsthand the unique traditions that make HBCUs such vital institutions. The day was also deeply personal for our STSI family, as we proudly celebrated alumna Sachi Russell , daughter of Board Member Dr. Darlene Russell, who took the field with the Morehouse I Spelman University band . Seeing one of our own shine on such a stage was a full-circle moment, inspiring our current students to imagine themselves in future spaces of leadership, artistry, and academic excellence. This outing was a powerful reminder of the importance of exposure, showing our girls possibilities beyond their immediate communities and helping them see themselves reflected in spaces of excellence. STSI Board Member Dr. Chi Onyewu and STEAM Sister Amarachi O. Alumni & S TEAM Sistah, Sachi Russell, shines at the HBCUNY Classic Global Conversations Through The Woman King Earlier in September, our STEAM Sistahs came together for a special virtual discussion of the film The Woman King , in partnership with our sister organization, Bridge to Africa Connection (BTAC) in Ghana . The movie sparked rich dialogue about leadership, resilience, and representation, with students exploring what it means to lead with courage and compassion. Together, girls in the U.S. and Ghana reflected on: How the Agojie warriors challenged gender roles by leading as protectors and strategists. The importance of unity, resilience, and sacrifice in building strong communities. Ways they themselves could lead—in their schools, on their sports teams, and in their families. One camper shared: “Using our voices and fighting for education is essential.” Another added that the film reminded her of the importance of standing beside her sisters, just like the Agojie stood for one another. This cross-continental dialogue not only deepened students’ understanding of the film’s themes but also strengthened bonds between our STEAM Sistahs and the BTAC girls. Together, they celebrated sisterhood, empowerment, and the possibilities of leadership across borders. STEAM Impact Snapshot 74% of students served this year were Yonkers youth , underscoring our deep local impact. 92% of campers reported increased confidence in public speaking and leadership skills. Parents shared that their daughters came home “excited about STEAM, inspired to try new things, and more confident about their future.” Call to Action Ready to keep the momentum going? Invite Black girls and girls of color in your life to join the STSI STEAM Academy, kicking off October 13, 2025. We offer year round tutoring, hands on industry trips, leadership workshops, and a sisterhood that lifts as it climbs. Send a quick email to lsmith@s2si.org to learn more or to get started today. Additionally, join us on October 18th at the Grinton I. Will Library  for STSI’s Sistah’s Circle: Igniting Potential , facilitated by our very own STEAM Sistah Cheyenne Stephens  and featuring dynamic women leaders sharing their journeys in STEAM careers. Don’t miss this empowering conversation! RSVP today ! Lydia K. Smith   STEAM Consultant and STEAM Camp Coordinator   Sister to Sister International   Dr. Cheryl Brannan   Founder and President   Sister to Sister International

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Yonkers, NY — Sister to Sister International (STSI) extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Con Edison Foundation for their generous donation of tickets to the July 27th Phillies vs. Yankees game, which provided an unforgettable experience for our STEAM Sistahs. Thanks to Con Edison’s support, the girls enjoyed an exciting day at Yankee Stadium, where they cheered on the Yankees, bonded with their peers, and immersed themselves in the electric atmosphere of the game. Many participants noted that this outing was a highlight of their summer, creating memories they will cherish for years to come. “We are incredibly thankful for the Con Edison Foundation's commitment to empowering our youth,” said Dr. Cheryl Brannan, Founder & President of Sister to Sister International . “Opportunities like this not only create joy but also foster strong community ties and encourage the development of our girls in STEAM fields.” The event was not just a game; it was a celebration of teamwork, empowerment, and exploration for our youth. The laughter and enthusiasm were truly infectious, and we are immensely grateful for the chance to provide this experience. This Yankees outing was part of STSI’s year-round STEAM Academy, which combines hands-on learning, career exposure, leadership training, and cultural enrichment to prepare girls of color for success in education, careers, and life. For more information, please visit www.s2si.org or contact us at info@s2si.org . About Sister to Sister International: Sister to Sister International is dedicated to empowering girls and women through education and community engagement, specifically in the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) fields. Our programs aim to inspire the next generation of leaders and innovators, promote academic excellence, and encourage civic engagement. About Con Edison Foundation: The Con Edison Foundation is committed to building stronger communities and enhancing the quality of life in the areas we serve. Through education, community development, and sustainability initiatives, the Foundation supports various programs that uplift and empower individuals and families. Lydia K. Smith   STEAM Consultant and STEAM Camp Coordinator   Sister to Sister International   Dr. Cheryl Brannan   Founder and President   Sister to Sister International

Yonkers, NY – July 2025  — Sister to Sister International, Inc. (STSI) proudly hosted its 16th Annual STEAM Camp, continuing its legacy of empowering young black & girls of color with transformative, hands-on experiences in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM). Held at the Yonkers Riverfront Library from June 30 to July 11, 2025, this free camp welcomed 21 middle and high school girls from across Westchester County for two weeks of dynamic learning, career exposure, and community building. A Holistic Approach to the STEAM Experience Campers participated in a packed schedule of activities designed to cultivate curiosity, confidence, and career readiness. Mornings began with public speaking, academic prep, and team-building.  Enriching, Interactive Workshops Across the two-week program, campers rotated through a slate of skill-building sessions led by seasoned professionals and STSI alumnae: Healthy Cooking with Maria Vele, Cornell Cooperative Extension Snap-Ed NY – hands-on nutrition session where girls blended fruit-forward smoothies and built healthier pizzas while decoding nutrition labels. Dress for Success with Lauren Morris, STSI Board Member – a confidence-boosting style clinic that showed campers how to create polished, age-appropriate looks for interviews, presentations, and lab tours. Code & Conduct with Anette White  – fast-moving role-plays and an “Etiquette Challenge” that sharpened first impression, digital communication, and boundary-setting skills. Cybersecurity for Young Adults with April Bourne, STSI Steering Committee Member – practical demos on safeguarding personal data, building unbreakable passwords, and spotting phishing & smishing traps. Exploring Civic Power with Cammie Jones-Friedrichs, STSI Steering Committee Member – an interactive primer on using individual and collective voices to drive community change. Advocacy 101 with Angel Gray & Gabriella Nanna, Westchester Children’s Association, Community Partner – issue-mapping and message-crafting exercises that turned passion into policy action. Intro to Podcasting with Lydia Smith  – digital storytelling workshop where campers scripted, recorded, and edited pilot podcast segments to amplify youth perspectives. Global Conversations & Purposeful Paths A highlight of the camp was a virtual book discussion of The Girl with the Louding Voice  with girls from Bridge to Africa Connection (BTAC) in Ghana, fostering reflection and global sisterhood. Dr. M. Morris, Director of Labor & Delivery at NewYork-Presbyterian, visited the camp to share her inspiring and non-linear journey in medicine, reassuring campers that finding your path takes time and resilience. Hands-On Field Trips & Experiential Learning Experiential trips offered real-world context to STEAM exploration: Consumer Reports Lab Visit:  campers stepped behind the scenes at the renowned CR Product-Testing Center in Yonkers for a whirlwind tour of its state-of-the-art laboratories and an insider look at how science, engineering, and data protect everyday consumers. The CR field trip fused engineering, chemistry, physics, and media literacy into an unforgettable, day-long immersion showing campers how rigorous science underpins everyday life and empowers consumer voices. At the Center for the Urban River at Beczak , campers donned waders, swept a seine net through the Hudson, and identified species such as striped bass, blue crab, mummichog, grass shrimp, and white perch—an unforgettable, hands-on lesson in environmental science, teamwork, and climate resilience made possible through CURB educators and the Science Barge partner. Lab Immersion Day with WWA NextGen at Gorton High School , campers stepped into real-world Med-Tech, conducting hands-on laboratory simulations and charting future career pathways—an experience made possible through the WWA Female Economic Empowerment Working Group, and the leadership of Juliet Armstrong, Laura Sanzel, Sally Pinto, and Lisa Boillot. Regeneron Field Trip, led by STSI Board Member Dr. Chi Onyewu  – Campers tackled a fast-paced “Ad-Campaign” STEM challenge with Dr. Khadijah Onanuga and colleagues, networked over lunch with a roster of Black women scientists, toured the Regeneron Genetics Center, and closed with a Q&A panel featuring Drs. Aaron Jones, Ashley Paynter, Marcus Jones, and others—gaining first-hand inspiration from leaders at the forefront of biotech innovation. Makaya M. shared, “One thing I will always remember from our Regeneron tour is when a speaker encouraged us to ‘find someone who will uplift and believe in you.’ That message really stayed with me, and that’s exactly what this camp has given me.” Post-camp surveys showed significant growth: 92%  of campers reported increased confidence in public speaking, leadership, and STEAM skills. 88%  felt better prepared for their next year’s math and science courses. Parents shared that their children “came home excited about STEAM, inspired to try new things, and more confident about their future.” Campers highlighted how much they valued hands-on workshops, the focus on advocacy and self-advocacy, and opportunities to learn from women professionals who look like them . As Destiny P. reflected, “We learned that using our voices and fighting for our education is essential!”- Destiny P. Celebrating Achievements and Looking Forward The camp concluded with a graduation ceremony and family day at Sprain Ridge Park, where campers received certificates, shared their achievements, and celebrated new friendships and skills. Seven “Reach for the Stars” scholarships were awarded, underscoring STSI’s commitment to educational equity and leadership development. Adding to the excitement, community leaders came out to cheer our STEAM Sistahs on—including County Executive Ken Jenkins, Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart‑Cousins, State Senator Shelley Mayer, County Legislator Shanae Williams, and Yonkers City Council Members Gina Jackson and Ellen Hendrickx demonstrating powerful bipartisan support for the next generation of women in STEAM. What’s Next? The Year-Round STEAM Academy STSI is excited to continue this momentum with its Year-Round STEAM Academy, offering monthly workshops, field trips, meetups, and tutoring for middle and high school black and girls of color. Membership is open and includes priority access to next year’s STEAM Camp and scholarship opportunities.  Learn more and join here . About Sister to Sister International, Inc. Sister to Sister International, Inc. is committed to advancing the academic and career potential of young black and girls of color through real-world, hands-on STEAM experiences and a network of caring mentors and partners. Our programs uplift and empower the next generation of leaders.  Visit us at www.s2si.org . Lydia K. Smith - lsmith@s2si.org STEAM Consultant and STEAM Camp Coordinator   Sister to Sister International   Dr. Cheryl Brannan  - cheryl@s2si.org Founder and President   Sister to Sister International

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Valhalla, NY – February 20, 2025—Sister to Sister International (STSI), in collaboration with PepsiCo Research & Development (R&D) campus, Valhalla, NY, hosted an enriching field trip led by PepsiCo executive and STSI board member Mara Calderon Guerra. The event provided unique insight into the innovative world of research and development at one of the world’s leading food and beverage companies. Throughout the day, students from the Westchester area engaged in various R&D activities at PepsiCo. They visited the Packing and Design Lab, participated in packing and mechanical testing, and explored how academic disciplines such as biology, chemistry, and food science link to career opportunities within the company. A hands-on look at the focus group room provided insights into consumer behavior, sensory sciences, and psychology on product development. Additionally, the visit to the Gatorade Sports Science Institute demonstrated the application of physiology in product consumption and the role of clinical trials in innovation. Students delved into advanced digital twins used in product design and development in the Modeling and Simulation Lab.  A key part of the visit was the Sensory Experience; workshop, where students created and customized their own beverages, simulating the role of an R&D scientist. The discussions highlighted the global opportunities at PepsiCo, noting that roles within the company can provide chances to travel internationally and expand both professional and personal experiences. Opportunities for Westchester Area Students in STEAM Students in the Westchester area have an opportunity to participate in STEAM exploration trips, web series, meetups, and tutoring within the STEAM Academy, STSI’s year-round program. By becoming a STEAM family member, students can engage in these enriching activities designed to empower young girls of color in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. STSI is committed to advancing these students academic and career potential through hands-on experiences that provide a real-world understanding of STEM fields. The upcoming 16th Annual STEAM Camp, which will be held from June 30 to July 11, 2025 (and will be closed on July 4th), promises an impactful and fun-filled experience in the world of STEAM. For more information about our programs, how to become a STEAM family member and upcoming partnerships, please visit www.s2si.org or contact Lydia K. Smith, STEAM Program Consultant, at lsmith@s2si.com. Contact: Lydia K. Smith STEAM Program Consultant Sister to Sister International Email: lsmith@s2si.com Dr. Cheryl Brannan Founder Sister to Sister International

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Yonkers, NY – December 2024  – Sister to Sister International (STSI), in collaboration with Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory’s DNA Learning Center hosted an enlightening field trip on Saturday, December 7th, 2024 at Regeneron. This event provided middle and high school students a unique opportunity to delve into the world of enzymes and see firsthand how they impact our daily lives and the food industry. Students traveled to the Regeneron DNA Learning Center in Sleepy Hollow, NY to participate in a series of hands-on experiments including, a) making cheese from milk using emporase enzyme (also called rennet); b) observing the bubbling reaction of chicken livers exposed to the catalase enzyme; and c) converting applesauce into apple juice with the enzyme pectinase. These experiments not only demonstrated enzyme functionality but also highlighted the importance of enzymes in biotechnology and food production. Dr. Chiatogu Onyewu, a board member of STSI and Senior Director of Genetic Medicines Program Management and Operations at Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., connected the STEAM Academy with the DNA Learning Center and played a key role in facilitating activities during our visit. Her expertise and engagement significantly enhanced the students' learning experience.             Student Testimonials Highlight Impact One participating student shared, “Seeing the enzymes in action was so cool! It made me realize how amazing science can be and how it's used in real life, not just in textbooks. ” Another student remarked, “This trip opened my eyes to a potential career in biotechnology. It’s fascinating to see how much impact these tiny molecules have in medicine and industry.” Continued Commitment to STEAM Education This science based effort is part of Sister to Sister International’s ongoing commitment to provide enriching experiences that inspire young girls of color to explore and excel in S.T.E.A.M fields. By partnering with leading scientific institutions like the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory’s DNA Learning Center, STSI ensures that students receive real-world, practical experiences that complement their academic learning. As we look to the future, STSI is dedicated to continuing its mission of offering robust programming and opportunities around STEAM exploration . This includes field trips and STEAM Academy activities that focus on building skills, uncovering career paths, and developing leadership. For more information about Sister to Sister International and upcoming programs, please visit our website at www.s2si.org  or contact Lydia Smith, STEAM Consultant and Program Coordinator, at lydiasmith.lks@gmail.comor 636-683-0285.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Yonkers, NY – July 2024 – Yonkers, NY – July 2024 – Sister to Sister International, Inc. (STSI) proudly hosted its 15th Annual STEAM Camp this summer, providing 20 young girls with a wide range of enriching experiences designed to inspire and empower them. The camp featured hands-on STEAM activities, inspirational talks from alumni and other accomplished professionals in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math.  The diverse interactive workshops like Dress for Success, by STSI Board Member Lauren Morris, Financial Literacy, along with Civic Affairs like Black Women’s Pay Equity Education and Advocacy, along with exciting field trips to notable locations such as the Yonkers Forensics Lab, Yonkers City Council Presidents Office and Chambers, St. Johns Riverside Hospital Radiology Department, and the Beczak Environmental Education Center, to name a few. Enriching Experiences and Inspirational Talks The excitement continued with visits from STSI’s incredible alumni, who were campers just like our girls not too long ago!   Nia Baptiste , M.Arch, Architect, shared her inspiring journey in architecture as a recent graduate from Howard University. Sayidana Brannan-Douglas , MS, Producer & Documentarian, captivated us with her experiences in the arts and media. She holds a Master of Science in Technology, Business and Media from Stony Brook University.  Our Science Talks were nothing short of inspiring with Nalo Russel , Drexel University Graduate, and Khadyja Sarr, MPH, Project Manager at Montefiore Medical Center, Graduate of Howard University who brought their world of science exploration in the medical field to life for our campers, focusing on medical and health disparities. STSI more seasoned professionals Cammie Jones and Sade Amazan , academic and corporate leaders shared their wisdom on civic engagement and confidence building, respectively. Both are also STSI millennial leaders on our steering committee who shared a wealth of experience with our STEAM Sistahs. STSI Board member and alumni Jordanne Lewis, delivered a biology module and explored health careers with students. International Linkages with Ghanaian Girls STSI STEAM Sistahs also had the opportunity to meet virtually and network with Bridge to Africa girls in Ghana. This activity was led by STSI Junior Counselor, Sagar Sarr and included introductory remarks by STSI Board Member , Chiatogu Onyewu, MD, PhD , a Scientist and Operations Manager at Regeneron. Experiential Field Trips This summer, the girls had the opportunity to participate in several STEAM exposure trips, including: Tour of the Yonkers Justice Center Forensics Lab Production Studio Tour at Kingdom Church Seining at the Center for the Urban River Visit to Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF) Architecture Firm Tour of Saint John's Riverside Hospital X-Ray Lab Yonkers Comic-Con Workshop Graduation Ceremony and Scholarship Awards The STEAM camp Graduation Ceremony occurred on Saturday, June 13th, at Sprain Ridge Park during STSI’s Family and Friends event. During this time, students shared reflections on their experiences, and we awarded six "Reach for the Stars" scholarships to: Adira Quarles, Peyton Rohan, Nastashya Johnson, Keyera Gordon and Saintecile Johnson What’s next… STSI STEAM Academy Sister to Sister International, Inc. thanks all participants, facilitators, and partners who made this year's camp a success. We also extend a hearty thank you to Lydia K. Smith,  our STEAM Program Consultant Lydia Smith and counselors, Testimony Ibidapo, Tiara Kidd and Sagar Sarr.   We are excited to continue providing these real-world experiences so that young girls can explore and excel in STEAM fields and will kick off our STEAM Academy October 1st, 2024 – June 2025. For more information log onto s2si.org For more information about Sister to Sister International, Inc. and our programs, please visit our website at www.s2si.org  or contact us at stsimovement@gmail.com . Lydia K. Smith STEAM Consultant and STEAM Camp Coordinator   Sister to Sister International   Dr. Cheryl Brannan   Founder and President   Sister to Sister International

United Way of Westchester and Putnam (United Way) is proud to announce the administration of grants totaling $500,000 to 44 deserving nonprofit organizations across the region. This significant investment in our community is a testament to United Way's commitment to fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and resilient Westchester and Putnam. Six of the awarded organizations are receiving funding from United Way for the first time.   The funds were made available through United Way’s Community Impact Fund, the Emergency Food and Shelter Program, and a partnership with PepsiCo .   The grant processes were highly competitive, with United Way receiving over 200 proposals across the opportunities. The selected recipients represent a range of nonprofits, each with a unique mission and vision. Still, all are committed to improving the lives of individuals and families who are ALICE ( A sset L imited, I ncome C onstrained, E mployed) in our community.    "We are thrilled to support these outstanding organizations," said Tom Gabriel , president and CEO of United Way. "Each one of them is doing critical work to address the pressing needs of our community, and we are proud to partner with them in their efforts."    United Way of Westchester and Putnam is deeply committed to creating lasting change in our community. Through strategic investments in local nonprofits, United Way is helping to build a stronger, more inclusive Westchester and Putnam.

Presented by: Nonprofit Westchester On November 29, 2023 NPW hosts its Annual Meeting & Emerging Leaders Program Graduation and Awards Westchester’s celebration of the nonprofit sector — The only event of its kind in Westchester honoring a Nonprofit Individual Changemaker and Organization Changemaker. This event is not a fundraiser. November 29, 2023 | 5:30 – 8:00 PM Sonesta Hotel, White Plains Sister to Sister International founder, Cheryl Brannan, stated "STSI is pleased to be selected as the 2023 Nonprofit Changemaker Award recipient for our work, with various community partners in support of elevating and promoting Black maternal health as a key public health issue in Westchester County." STSI's own Development Associate, Tsahai Amazan is a graduate of this year's Emerging Leaders Program and will be walking the stage shoulder to shoulder with 35 other Westchester based Graduates. NPW's Emerging Leaders Program is an 11-month professional development program that supports “emerging leaders” to grow their nonprofit knowledge, leadership skills, and expand their reach through networking. Sister to Sister International , is a Yonkers-based nonprofit which is dedicated to the empowerment of Black women and girls in Westchester and beyond. Nationally, maternal mortality is 3 to 4 times higher for Black women than for White women. STSI is being honored for successfully elevating and promoting Black maternal health as a key public health issue in Westchester, New York State and nationally. Through partnerships with Black and Brown birthing people, healthcare, academia, government and the general public, and their Seminole research report, Still I Rise: The Status of Black Women and Girls in Westchester County (2019), STSI is leading the way on solutions to this and other problems resulting from the social determinants of health and systemic racism. STSI & Community Partners Westchester Black Maternal & Child Center of Excellence, Ribbon Cutting (Nov. 2022) Maternal Health Stats: From 2017 – 2021 42.9% of Black women had a cesarean section compared to 37.5% of White women in Westchester The infant mortality rate for Black infants was 2.3 per 1,000 live births compared to 0.9 per 1,000 live births for White women in Westchester Black women had 12.9% of low-birth-weight babies compared to 6.1% of White women in Westchester Long Term Goals & Outcomes: The goal is to improve Black maternal health outcomes through increased public awareness, outreach to pregnant women and their support systems and educating health care providers regarding the social determinants of health and the bias that negatively impacts black maternal health outcomes. Some Accomplishments to Date: Partnered with various community partners to create the Westchester Black Maternal & Child Center of Excellence (WBMCCE) with 4 pillars designed to educate and train all targeted populations noted above; If you are interested in becoming a community partner, please email blkmatchild@gmail.com or call 914-207-0368. For services and support please log onto s2si.org Purchase Tickets and Journal Ads to this Event

AND DELIVERS SCHOOL OF BUSINESS 2024 COMMENCEMENT SPEECH May 30, 2024, WESCHESTER COUNTY CENTER Congratulations to Cheryl Brannan, for two honors bestowed on her during Mercy University’s 2024 Commencement. Brannan was the Mercy University School of Business 89th Commencement Speaker, and was presented with an Honorary Doctor of Commercial Science, from President Susan Parish and was hooded by Trustee Valerie Mason Cunningham. “It was exciting to serve as the Commencement Speaker and receive an Honorary Doctorate  from Mercy University, where I have been an alumni, former faculty member, and community partner for almost 20 years,” said Dr. Brannan, whose speech was entitled, Another Milestone: Striving to Live Your Best Life! She shared two pieces of advice that she calls Golden Nuggets that have served her well during her life and career journey. They were to Expand your worldview and Bet on Yourself! During her introduction, President Parish said “Cheryl Lynn Brannan, a lifelong resident of Yonkers, has been a dynamic leader who has excelled in the civic, political, corporate, academic, and international arenas for over 30 years, claiming “On the Move” as her mantra. “As someone who values education and lifelong learning, she is a proud Mercy alumna having earned a master’s degree in organizational leadership in 2002 and later joined the faculty at the School of Business. She climbed the corporate ladder at Xerox while establishing the Xerox Black Women’s Caucus Group, making significant contributions to diversity and leadership in the corporate sector. “As founder of Sister to Sister International, Cheryl led efforts to support the health, education, and empowerment of Black and Brown women and girls, and spearheaded the creation of the first STEAM summer camp for girls of color in the Lower Hudson Valley. She has been integral in highlighting the significant disparities in Black maternal health in Westchester County, and creating a Westchester Black Maternal Child Center of Excellence to improve those outcomes. “This important work reaches beyond our region. Your passion for women’s issues led you to become a delegate to International Women’s Conferences in Kenya and China, and participate in summits in Kenya  and the Caribbean. You achieved Special Consultative Status for Sister to Sister International with the United Nations Economic and Social Council. “Additionally, you founded Brannan Solutions Group, a consulting firm specializing in helping organizations achieve their goals through strategic planning, leadership development, and diversity and inclusion initiatives. “The dedication and impact of Brannan’s work in the political and community spheres are evident through her extensive involvement and the numerous accolades she has garnered, including a Lifetime Achievement Award from NYS Majority Leader, Andrea Stewart Cousins; Senator Schumer, Special Guest Invite to the State of the Union, Black Maternal Health Leadership Recognition;  Westchester Women in Business Award, 914 Inc.; YWCA, Westchester County Women’s Hall of Fame; Planned Parenthood, Leader in Reproductive Justice & Education, Outstanding Advocate Award; Westchester Black Women’s Political Caucus, Trailblazer Award; Westchester County Youth Bureau, SHERO Award; Featured in Black Women in Westchester; and National Council of Negro Women Leadership Award, presented by the late Dr. Irene Height,” said President Parish. Congratulations Dr. Brannan! https://yonkerstimes.com/cheryl-brannan-honored-by-mercy-university-with-honorary-doctorate-and-delivers-school-of-business-2024-commencement-speech/

A Resounding Success! 4/20/24 | Yonkers, NY View & Download Photos and Videos Below: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1-3lN3TFY0W9VPb_S3HUNFjGxh7D7zi2B?usp=sharing Conference Recap: Yonkers, NY, April 20, 2024 - Sister to Sister International's (STSI) 4th Annual Day of  Recognition, Education, and Action at the Grinton I. Will Public Library in Yonkers, NY, was a resounding success, drawing various members, workgroup leaders, and community partners who came together to make a collective impact throughout the county focused on STSI's four pillars. The day kicked-off with Cheryl Brannan, founder of STSI and the Westchester Black Maternal Child Center of Excellence (WBMCCE), setting the tone. Brannan explained the organization's mission, objectives, and the day's schedule, emphasizing the intersection of STEM education, health disparities, and their impact on Black and Brown women and girls. Featured speakers during the day included  Asha Castleberry-Hernandez, National Security Expert and Dr. Uché Blackstock. Castleberry-Hernandez spoke about her military career and journey and encouraged young attendees to explore career opportunities in cybersecurity, national security, and artificial intelligence. Recognition was a highlight where STSI applauded community partners for their support of their four workgroup pillars: Health & wellness and Black maternal health; Social and juvenile justice; STEM & STEAM curriculum and Entrepreneurship and pay equity; Westchester County Deputy County Executive, Ken Jenkins,  delivered greetings and elaborated on Westchester County's commitment to the Westchester Black Maternal and Child Center of Excellence and continuing to fund community partners as part of their joint effort to improve birth outcomes and promote birth equity in Westchester County. Ms. Brannan expressed gratitude to County Executive Latimer, the Deputy County Executive, and staff for their ongoing support of this initiative. Also, in attendance were Legislators  Terry Clements and Jewel Williams Johnson. Next, participants were actively engaged in a dynamic Fireside Chat featuring Dr. Uché Blackstock, a distinguished physician, Founder and CEO of Advancing Health Equity, and a New York Times bestselling author.  The conversation was moderated by  STSI member physicians Stephanie Lovinsky-Desir, MD,  and Chiatogu Onyewu, MD PhD. Dr. Blackstock, renowned for her tireless efforts in advocating against systemic biases and racism within the healthcare sector, offered profound insights.   She shared her journey, emphasizing the importance of recognizing when to act and highlighting the dangers of oversimplification and disrespect. Additionally, she eloquently detailed the pivotal moments that heightened her awareness of the systemic racism faced by individuals of Black and Brown origins. Dr. Blackstock also captivated the audience by reading excerpts from her acclaimed book, Legacy, and engaging in an interactive and engaging question-and-answer session. NYS Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart Cousins and Congressman Jamal Bowman, who typically attend this conference, were both in session. Another highlight was the workgroup break-out sessions focused on actions and next steps related to STSI's four pillars.   To join a workgroup or for additional information please email info@s2si.org.  We are excited to share that STSI has several upcoming events and initiatives planned to continue our mission of training, education, and empowerment.  Please log on to s2si.org for more information.

Sister-to-Sister recently hosted a Town Hall titled “Birth Equity Improvement Project – Pushing the Needle Forward”.  This was sponsored in collaboration with County Legislator, Jewel Williams-Johnson at the Westchester County Center on March 19th. During the Town Hall meeting, the objective was to receive updates from birthing hospitals in the area about their efforts to promote birth equity. The latest findings on birthing statistics from the New York State Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Review Board were also discussed. Programs and initiatives resulting from Westchester County and community partnerships were shared, and community members shared their personal experiences. The attendees at the Town Hall included Westchester County Executive, George Latimer, Assistant County Executives, Ken Jenkins, Westchester County Legislator, Jewel Williams-Johnson, Westchester County Department of Health Executives, as well as numerous hospital birthing representatives and community partners. The participating hospitals were St. John's Riverside Hospital, Westchester Medical Center, and Phelps Hospital. The forum was well attended and impactful. The information shared shed light on the status of maternal mortality and morbidity in Westchester County, and highlighted initiatives to improve and sustain better outcomes. Learn More: www.wbmcce.org