Each year, the State of Black Children in Texas Summit serves as a call to action—a gathering place for experts, advocates, and community leaders dedicated to dismantling systemic barriers and fostering opportunity for Black children across the state. The third annual convening, held virtually on February 13, 2025, did not disappoint. With the theme “Empowering Futures & Advancing Well-Being,” this year’s event explored how Texas can better support Black children through data-driven insights, transformative partnerships, and a renewed focus on mental health.

Dr. Stella Smith, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Educational Leadership and Counseling at Prairie View A&M University, delivered the morning’s Data Highlight. She provided a critical overview of the systemic disparities affecting Black children in Texas, underscoring how inequities in education, health, and economic opportunity limit potential and outcomes. Dr. Smith’s presentation challenged participants to shift from awareness to action, rooted in evidence-based change

Panel: Beyond the Classroom

The first major discussion, titled “Beyond the Classroom: Preparing and Creating Workforce Pathways for Black Children for College, Career, and Lifelong Success,” was moderated by Dr. Lekesha Attuquayefio (Barnett)—a minister, consultant, and author.

The panel featured professionals from various fields, including:

• LaMonica Love, Business and Estate Planning Attorney

• Hope Pamplin, Ph.D., LPC-S, Therapist

• Kevin Bryant, Managing Director, GoodCitizen

• Antonie H. Rice, Ph.D., Associate Dean of Education and Student Affairs, National School of Tropical Medicine

Together, they explored how to build workforce pathways that are not only inclusive but also empowering. From mentorship to access to career networks, the discussion emphasized the importance of preparing Black students to thrive in an evolving global economy.

Mental Health Matters: Fireside Chat

Moderated again by Marvin Pierre, the fireside chat tackled a topic too often overlooked—mental health. Titled “Mental Health Matters: Supporting the Emotional Well-Being of Black Children for Lifelong Success,” the session brought together passionate advocates and mental health professionals:

• Dr. Jamie Freeny, Director, Center for School Behavioral Health, Mental Health America of Greater Houston

• Morgan Tuck, M.A., LPC-S, NCC, Founder & Lead Therapist, Mawazo Counseling and Consulting

• Hazel Davis, Community Engagement Leader & Workforce Development Advocate

The panel emphasized the need for culturally responsive mental health resources, safe spaces in schools and communities, and ongoing efforts to destigmatize seeking help. This conversation resonated deeply, acknowledging that well-being is foundational to learning and success.

“If we really want to see a shift in the mental health of youth, it’s going to take a change and everyone else that surrounds our youth in their lives needs to change.” – Dr. Jamie Freeny

The summit’s keynote, Trustee Erica Davis, Board Second Vice President of the Harris County Department of Education, delivered a compelling speech on “The Power of Partnership.” She called for greater collaboration between communities, corporations, and schools to ensure Black children are not just supported—but celebrated. Her remarks reinforced the theme that systemic change requires a united front and shared accountability.

“Our children deserve more than what we are giving them today. It’s a leadership challenge that demands new forms of partnerships.”- Trustee Erica Davis

As the event concluded with final thoughts from Marvin Pierre, the message was clear: addressing the needs of Black children in Texas is not a one-time event—it’s an ongoing commitment. From uplifting data to mobilizing community voices, this year’s summit reaffirmed the importance of advocacy, equity, and action.