Author: Jheri Hardaway

Jheri Hardaway is a staff writer for The Carolinian whose reporting explores the intersection of activism, politics, and community life across North Carolina. Drawing on her own experience and history in political organizing and civic engagement, Hardaway focuses on political coverage that highlights grassroots movements, public policy, and the voices of communities often overlooked in traditional media. Through thoughtful storytelling and analysis, she brings attention to the people and issues shaping the region’s political and social landscape.

‘A Vote Betrayed’: Former HRC Chair Addresses Raleigh Council for Blocking African American Affairs Board

0
By Jheri Hardaway Staff Writer RALEIGH, N.C. - After years of community advocacy and a unanimous City Council vote to approve its creation, the Raleigh African American Affairs Board (AAAB) has been effectively blocked by the very council members who once championed it. We recently caught up with Byron Laws, the former chair of the Human Relations Commission for the City of Raleigh. Laws proudly served six years which is
Read More

The Raleigh-Wake Alumni Chapter of NCCU Congratulates Stephanie Wilson Jones on being crowned Ms. NCCU Alumni 2025!

0
By: Jheri Hardaway Staff Writer This spirited and hard-fought competition showcased the very best of Eagle Pride, with Stephanie raising an outstanding $41,574.75 in support of the university - directly contributing to scholarships for deserving students. An active and dedicated member of the Raleigh-Wake Alumni Chapter, Stephanie also serves on the regional level as an Assistant Vice President, where she leads with energy, commitment, and a true can-do spirit. Known
Read More

Dr. Myers Innovates With A Children’s Book Series: Bridging Math And Literacy

0
By Jheri Hardaway Staff Writer A new and exciting approach to early childhood education is emerging from a Raleigh educator and author, combining the essential skills of reading and mathematics into a single, engaging, colorful children's book series. Local author and former math teacher, Dr. Marrielle Myers, has launched an innovative children's book series designed to spark "math talk" in homes, reinforcing the idea that math is not just a
Read More

103 Years of Wisdom: Matriarch Maddie Evans Jones On Raleigh’s Past, Dr. Franklin, And The Power Of Memory

0
By Jheri Hardaway Staff Writer In a city defined by consistent growth, continually named a best place to move and to do business, the remarkable memory of Raleigh natives like Mattie Evans Jones is a priceless anchor to Raleigh's profound past. Born in June of 1922, Mrs. Jones, a cherished matriarch and a lifelong Raleigh resident, recently shared a glimpse into her extraordinary 103 years, a journey that spans the
Read More

Educators Empowered: A Reflection on The 2025 Color of Education Summit

0
By Jheri Hardaway Staff Writer RALEIGH, NC - This year's Color of Education Summit was more than a conference; it was an empowering and necessary gathering of minds that influence our collective future. Centered on the theme, "Preserving Our Legacy: The Power in the Stories We Carry," the event served as a vibrant testament to the belief that the path to educational equity is paved with the narratives of our
Read More

Uncovering Our Roots: How The 2025 Family History Fair Illuminated North Carolina’s Past

0
  By Jheri Hardaway Staff Writer RALEIGH, NC - On Saturday, October 4th, the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources building was filled with the energy of discovery. Hundreds gathered for the 2025 Family History Fair, an event dedicated to African American Genealogy and History that left attendees feeling inspired, informed, and deeply connected to the past. Hosted by the State Archives and the State Library of North Carolina,
Read More

Changing Destinies’ New Leadership

0
By Jheri Hardaway Staff Writer Pinehurst, NC - Changing Destinies Ministry is proud to announce that Renee Cassidy has been named Executive Director, effective September 23, 2025. She succeeds Kym Nixon, who will continue her service as President and co-founder of the ministry. Under Nixon's leadership, Changing Destinies Ministry (CDM) has grown from a vision into a life-changing refuge for survivors of human trafficking. With the support of nearly 450
Read More

Harnett County NAACP 55th Annual Freedom Fund Banquet

0
By Jheri Hardaway Staff Writer Dunn, NC - The annual Harnett County NAACP 5473B Freedom Fund Banquet, led by chapter president Tony Spears, was elevated by an impassioned address from the cousin of George Floyd, Thomas N. McLaurin, who offered a profound reflection on the five years since his relative's death-a moment that sparked a global movement. Thomas N. McLaurin serves as the Executive Director of the Floyd Family Center
Read More

Product Review: Power Peace Pads

0
By Jheri Hardaway  Staff Writer This year at Earn Your Leisure's InvestFest, one of the vendors that stood out the most had a product that most of the population needs but is not widely produced. It stops girls from going to school and can impact women from working. You can only use it once, but it is relied upon. I'm talking about sanitary napkins or pads. Rizza Islam's Intellectual Power
Read More

For the Community, By the Community: A Sheriff’s Vision For Harnett County

0
By Jheri Hardaway  Staff Writer Lillington, NC - Major Aaron Meredith, a 20-year veteran of the sheriff's office, is running for Sheriff of Harnett County with a platform centered on community enhancement and a modern approach to law enforcement. With a history of serving in nearly every capacity within the department, he brings a unique perspective and a deep understanding of the office's operations. "I've pretty much done everything at
Read More