Empowering Today & Elevating Tomorrow

The National African American Insurance Association – St. Louis Chapter (NAAIA-STL) invites you to support our Fourth Annual Black History Month Celebration, Scholarship Fundraiser, and Awards Ceremony on Thursday, February 26th at 18Rails | The Venue @ City Foundry STL.

The STILL I RISE Scholarship Fundraiser & Awards Ceremony was created with a singular purpose: to honor those who have courageously led the way in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion, while investing directly in the future of our industry.

Across our communities, there are leaders whose work often happens behind the scenes; individuals and organizations who challenge inequity, open doors, and create opportunities where none previously existed. This event exists to recognize and celebrate those accomplishments, acknowledging the impact of leadership rooted in service, advocacy, and vision.

At the same time, STILL I RISE is deeply forward-looking.

The insurance and financial services industries continue to face a critical need for diverse, well-prepared talent. Many students aspire to careers in these fields but lack access to resources, exposure, and financial support. Through this event, we raise funds to provide scholarships for students pursuing careers in insurance and financial services, helping to remove barriers and create pathways to long-term professional success.

This year’s theme “Empowering Today & Elevating Tomorrow" captures the heart of our mission.

Empowering Today means honoring leaders who are actively shaping more inclusive and equitable communities right now.
Elevating Tomorrow means investing in students who will become the next generation of professionals, executives, and change-makers.

Every ticket purchased, every sponsorship secured, and every donation made directly supports this dual mission: celebrating excellence while building opportunity.

STILL I RISE is more than an event. It is a commitment to progress, a celebration of resilience, and a promise to ensure that tomorrow’s leaders are equipped, supported, and empowered to rise.

We invite you to join us in honoring the past and present; while boldly investing in the future.

NAAIA St. Louis Chapter Leadership

President
Corey Tyson

Vice President
Mark Johnson

Treasurer
Kenisha Stallings

Secretary
Sharrilyn Rose

Membership Chair
Essence Randolph

Programs Chair
Leslie Payne

Programs Co-Chair
Cathey Williamson

Public Relations Chair
Denale Powell

Nominations & Elections Chair
Barry Parks

Emerging Leaders Chair
Brennan Duvall

Immediate Past President
Tina Anderson

National African American Insurance Association St. Louis Still I Rise 2026

Still I Rise 2026 Annual Awards & Scholarship Celebration