By Jheri Hardaway
Staff Writer
The Black Women’s Leadership Collective (BWLC) is emerging as a critical force in American politics, acting as a strategic organizing hub to significantly amplify the social and political influence of Black women nationwide. Powered by the "Power Rising" initiative, the BWLC connects national organizations, advocates, and grassroots supporters to ensure Black women are powerfully represented, both at the ballot box—mobilizing an audience of over 20 million in 2024—and in the halls of power. Operating as a "Movement of Movements," the collective works in close partnership with influential groups like the "Divine Nine" Sororities and civic powerhouses such as the NCNW and The Links, Incorporated. The organization’s leadership, steered by figures like Donna Brazile, Minyon Moore, and Star Jones, highlights its serious intent to champion the growing number of Black women running for office, a number that surpassed 1,200 in 2024.
Here in North Carolina, the current cohort of BWLC NC Candidate Training Program is preparing to graduate its 2025 class. Led fearlessly by Bajeyah Eaddy, a visionary leader committed to strengthening communities, shaping inclusive policies, and driving meaningful political and social impact, who also serves as a leader of the Roy Cooper for United States Senate campaign team.
With countless legislators and local leaders speaking and providing guidance throughout the program, BWLC is a premier organization for anyone looking to make an impact in the community who is seeking insight on structure and best practices.
As the 2025 class comes to a close, several members of the cohort have filed for office and begun their campaigns. Here is a bit of insight on the current cohort of the Black Women's Leadership Collective North Carolina 2025:
Meet Brittnei LaRue. Brittnei is running for the New Hanover County School Board because she believes every child deserves a high-quality education and a fair opportunity to succeed. She also believes that strong schools are built through listening—listening to families, educators, and students whose lives are directly impacted by school board decisions. As a mother of two children in New Hanover County Schools, Brittnei has experienced firsthand the realities many families face. Her son’s journey navigating the IEP process showed her just how critical it is for schools to meet students where they are and provide individualized supports that allow every child to thrive. Her daughter’s experience with bullying further strengthened Brittnei’s resolve to advocate for school environments that are safe, respectful, and supportive for all students. These deeply personal experiences transformed Brittnei from a parent advocate for her own children into a community advocate determined to improve outcomes for families across the district.
Brittnei’s commitment to service extends well beyond her role as a parent. As a financial professional, she brings a strong understanding of transparency, accountability, and responsible decision-making. She believes public trust is built when resources are used wisely, decisions are clearly explained, and community members feel confident that leadership is acting in the best interest of students and educators. Brittnei approaches governance with a people-centered mindset—balancing fiscal responsibility with compassion and long-term planning.
Throughout her professional and community work, Brittnei has built a reputation as a thoughtful listener and collaborative leader. She has worked across political and social lines, bringing people together around shared goals and practical solutions. She understands that meaningful progress happens when parents’ voices are respected, teachers’ expertise is valued, and partnerships are formed between schools, families, and the broader community. Brittnei is running for school board to help strengthen those partnerships and restore confidence in public education leadership. She believes the role of the board is to govern responsibly, support educators, protect students, and ensure policies are clear, fair, and focused on student success—not political agendas. Her vision for New Hanover County Schools centers on safe learning environments, strong academic outcomes, transparent decision-making, and a culture of respect and inclusion.
At the heart of Brittnei’s campaign is a simple belief: when we listen first, lead with integrity, and put students at the center of every decision, we create schools where all children can succeed. She is ready to bring her lived experience, professional skills, and collaborative leadership style to the school board to help build a stronger, more unified school system for New Hanover County. Learn more at larueforschools.com.
Meet Dilcy Burton, a Durham Public Schools graduate and parent of graduates from Durham Public Schools. She is a former DPS substitute teacher, former Vice President of the PTA, former Committee Chair and Chaplain for Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and Durham Delegate to the SEC for the NC Democratic Party. Dilcy believes every child deserves a safe, supportive, and high-quality education that reflects the full diversity of the community. Dilcy has a reputation for equity, problem-solving, and accountability in her roles as an attorney and chaplain. Dilcy understands the challenges facing our schools and her training as an approved NC OSHR mediator will prove an essential asset and benefit to DPS.
Dilcy is a candidate for Durham County Board of Education District One because she will improve Durham Public Schools. She is committed to providing essential curriculum support to teachers, and increasing recruitment of exceptional children educators. She is a supporter of fair and market rate compensation for DPS staff, teachers and administrators. She advocates for transparency in the oversight of the DPS budget. Dilcy believes the DPS academic calendar should reflect the diversity of its students. She supports an academic calendar that increases the number of DPS holidays which is similar to the school calendar in NYC Public Schools. Dilcy is committed to responsible, transparent decision-making involving school closures that consider family and neighborhood public comment events.
Dilcy is a strong advocate for dependable and consistent DPS transportation services, livable and market wages for bus drivers, custodians, cafeteria workers and instructional assistants. Dilcy is prepared to work collaboratively with Durham’s state legislators, county commissioners and federal stakeholders to fight for increased financial funding to DPS. Dilcy is a voice for students, a partner for parents and a champion for educators. Success for Durham Public Schools begins with a vote for Dilcy Burton on March 3, 2026. Please visit www.dilcy4durham.com for further information.
Say hello to your author, and BWLC 2025 Cohort member, Jheri Hardaway, a voice for North Carolina's future, running for the North Carolina Senate in District 12. Jheri is an experienced writer, educator, innovative organizer, and dedicated sales professional running for NC State Senate to bring a fresh, results-driven perspective to Harnett, Lee, and NW Sampson counties. Known for her strong work ethic, a dynamic understanding of American history, and an encouraging, motivating spirit, Jheri is excited to go to work for the people.
For years, Jheri Hardaway has served the community as an educator and prolific journalist, contributing currently to The Carolinian News weekly. Also a notary, this background has instilled a deep understanding of the issues facing our state and a proven ability to research, articulate complex ideas clearly, and advocate for the public good. As a writer and journalist, Jheri is uniquely equipped to tackle legislation with precision and clarity. Beyond the news and classrooms, Jheri is a dynamic sales professional who understands the engine of our economy and is passionate about economic development. With a talent for executing memorable experiences and organizing innovative events, Ms. Hardaway has a successful track record of bringing people and resources together to achieve ambitious goals. This combination of hustle and execution is exactly what's needed to attract new businesses, support local entrepreneurs, and create high-quality living-wage jobs across the district.
Jheri Hardaway is campaigning on the promise of effective leadership and a commitment to ensuring every resident has the opportunity to thrive. With a blend of media acumen, lesson planning, business savvy, and a relentless drive to deliver results, Jheri is the clear choice to be your next State Senator. Protect the will of the people by supporting The Committee to Elect Jheri Hardaway.
