Washington, D.C. – On Oct. 24, The Washington Informer and The AFRO‑American Newspapers will host an elegant high‑tea titled “Steeped in Legacy.” The event, organized by publisher Denise Rolark Barnes and CEO Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper, will honor six women whose careers exemplify education, media, health and public service.
Honorees
The honorees include Dr. Dana A. Williams, dean of Howard University’s Graduate School; Dr. Kimberly R. Moffitt, dean of Howard’s Cathy Hughes School of Communications; Jacqueline “Jackie” Jones, dean of Morgan State University’s School of Global Journalism & Communication; Dr. April Massey, chief academic officer at the University of the District of Columbia; Jacquie Gales Webb, Peabody‑Award‑winning producer and longtime host of “Sunday Afternoon Gospel” on WHUR‑FM; and Dr. Myechia Minter‑Jordan, CEO of AARP. Each has demonstrated a commitment to educating the next generation, empowering communities and leading institutions through change.
Why the Collaboration Matters
Both newspapers trace their roots to family‑founded enterprises that have served the Black community for generations. The Washington Informer was founded in 1964 by Dr. Calvin W. Rolark and is now led by his daughter, Denise Rolark Barnes, who has expanded the weekly paper into a multimedia news organization. The AFRO, established in Baltimore in 1892 by John H. Murphy Sr., is guided by Dr. Draper, a third‑generation publisher. Together they represent more than 190 years of Black publishing history.
“When legacy joins hands with innovation, history does not simply continue—it moves forward,” Draper said. “We look forward to the energy, inspiration and sense of possibility that will fill the room as we honor these extraordinary women and imagine what our two institutions—and the Black Press—can build together.”
Supporting Sustainable Journalism
The high‑tea is also a fundraiser. Proceeds will help both papers sustain credible, relevant journalism across print, web, newsletters, video, social media and emerging digital platforms. In an era of declining advertising revenue and shifting news‑consumption habits, the collaboration demonstrates a proactive approach to preserving trusted voices for future generations.
Community Impact
Local leaders praised the partnership. Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, president and CEO of the National Newspaper Publishers Association, noted that the joint event signals unity for Black‑owned media in the DMV area and hopes it will inspire other outlets nationwide.
By bringing together readers, supporters and community partners, the event underscores the power of collaboration over competition. As the Black Press approaches its 200th anniversary in 2027, the partnership between The Washington Informer and The AFRO serves as a model for how historic institutions can adapt and thrive while staying true to their mission of giving voice to underserved communities.
How to Attend
Tickets are available at afrotixlive.com. For sponsorship opportunities, contact [email protected] or call (202) 903‑6003.
Original reporting: The Washington Informer — read the source article.
