Emelia Timpo, Ph.D. wins the INDEPENDENT PRESS AWARD®

The INDEPENDENT PRESS AWARD, one of the most prestigious book award programs globally for independent authors, publishers, and illustrators, recognized "Perseverance a Memoir: One Woman's Journey from Ghana to the United Nations" by Emelia Timpo, Ph.D. as the winner in the African American Nonfiction category.

The competition is judged by experts from different aspects of the book industry, including publishers, writers, editors, book cover designers and professional copywriters. Selected IPA Award Winners and Distinguished Favorites are based on overall excellence.

"Perseverance a Memoir: One Woman's Journey from Ghana to the United Nations" by Emelia Timpo, Ph.D. is a story of a young child growing up in a meagre but loving environment surrounded by strong affirming women, most with limited education, in the Garden City of Kumasi, Ghana. It demonstrates the power of perseverance in the face of all odds and presents a refreshing new look on the importance of ensuring the mind’s freedom from external limitations and prejudices.

Synopsis:
In the Garden City of Kumasi, Ghana, a compelling story unfolds – a triumphant tale of a young child navigating life's twists and turns within a meager yet loving environment. Surrounded by strong and affirming women, many with limited education, the narrative becomes a testament to the extraordinary power of perseverance.

Should we cling to our childhood dreams, guarding them against the trials of life? Or, in the face of myriad setbacks, should we summon the strength to break free from that which threatens to hold us back? These questions resonate at the heart of this inspiring journey.

This is not just a story; it's a revelation of resilience and the unwavering spirit that propels one forward. Through challenges and setbacks, the protagonist emerges as a beacon of determination, challenging conventional norms and redefining the limits imposed by external forces. Amid adversity, this tale urges readers to embrace the importance of liberating the mind from external limitations and prejudices. It's a call to arms for those who dare to dream beyond societal expectations, demonstrating that true freedom comes from within.

Embark on a transformative journey, where the echoes of Kumasi's Garden City form the backdrop to a narrative that goes beyond cultural borders. Join us in exploring the refreshing perspective that emerges when the human spirit, fueled by love and perseverance, defies the odds.

In 2025, the INDEPENDENT PRESS AWARD saw participation from journalists, well established authors, and small, medium and large publishers across the globe, including those residing in Australia, Canada, Dominican Republic, France, Germany, India, Hong Kong, Japan, Portugal, Scotland, Singapore, Spain, United Kingdom, and the United States.

Winners were chosen from publishers such as Amplify Publishing Group, Black Rose Writing, Blackstone Publishing, BookBaby, Calumet Editions, Globe Pequot, Finishing Line Press, Gatekeepers Press, Hachette Go (Blanco of Grand Central Publishing), HarperCollins Leadership, Ideapress Publishing, IVP Kids, Koehler Books, Mad Cave Studios, North Dakota State University Press, Oceanview, Publishing Old Stone Press, Pegasus Books, Post Hill Press, Red T Kid's Media, Rowman & Littlefield, She Writes Press, University of California Press, and University of Georgia Press.

“The 2025 INDEPENDENT PRESS AWARD awardees included the excellence and diversity of global independent publishing,” said Gabrielle Olczak, IPA President and Award Sponsor. "There is no stopping independent publishing. It provides unparalleled content and quality to consumers worldwide and we are excited to showcase this year's honorees to the world.”

Dr. Emelia Timpo, Ph.D will be recognized, along with other award-winning authors from four different continents, at the Awards Dinner & Ceremony, https://www.independentpressaward.com/awardsdinner, held on May 2, 2025.

About the Author
Having dedicated 17 years to leadership roles within the United Nations, including positions at UNAIDS and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Dr. Timpo has made a significant impact. Her focus on gender issues spans women's economic and political empowerment, capacity building of women's organizations, and the seamless integration of gender concerns in technical programming.

Born and raised in Ghana, Dr. Timpo holds a Ph.D. in Botany and Plant Physiology from Rutgers University, a Master of Science in Agronomy from Cornell University, and a Post-Graduate professional certification in Non-Profit Institutions Management from New York University. Her journey began with a bachelor's degree in agricultural science from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in Kumasi, Ghana. A former member of the President’s Council of Cornell Women, she has excelled in her academic and professional pursuits. To find out more more, please visit: https://www.emeliatimpo.com/

First African American to walk in space, Dr. Bernard Harris, joins U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame

Dr. Bernard Harris, the first African American to walk in space, is set to be inducted into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame on May 31 at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Cape Canaveral, Florida.

“Being inducted into the Astronaut Hall of Fame is a tremendous honor, made even more special by the fact that it comes from my peers,” Harris said. “This recognition isn’t just about my accomplishments. It is also a testament to the teamwork and dedication of everyone who shared this amazing journey with me along the way.”Hailing from Texas, Harris earned his bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Houston in 1978 before pursuing medical school. After completing his residency at the Mayo Clinic and a fellowship at NASA’s Ames Research Center, he joined NASA as a clinical scientist and flight surgeon, entering the astronaut training program in 1990.

In 1993, Harris flew on Space Shuttle Columbia during mission STS-55, where he conducted significant research and experiments. His groundbreaking second mission, STS-63, on Space Shuttle Discovery in 1995, marked a historic milestone as he became the first African American to walk in space.

Throughout his career, Harris logged 437 hours in space and traveled over 7 million miles.

[SOURCE: ROCKETCITY]

Online Museum of African Americans Doctors: A New Museum For a New Era

The Tardieu Museum, an online Museum of African Americans with a focus on Black medical professionals proudly announces its official launch, offering a virtual space dedicated to preserving and celebrating the profound contributions of Blacks and their medical professionals throughout history. From ancient African healers to modern-day pioneers in medicine, this groundbreaking museum highlights the resilience, innovation, and excellence of Blacks, their doctors and other professionals across centuries.

“The history of Black doctors is deeply intertwined with the fight for justice, education, and healthcare equity,” said Dr. Marie-Ange D. Tardieu, the medical director of Skin Longevity Clinic and Curator of the Online Museum of African Americans. “This museum is more than just a collection of stories—it’s a tribute to those who paved the way and an inspiration for future generations.”

A Journey Through History

The Online Museum of African Americans and of the Black Doctors among them offers a rich, interactive experience that explores:

✅ Ancient Healers – The roots of Black medical knowledge, from African herbalists to early American healers.

✅ The Fight for Education – The struggle for Black students to enter medical schools and achieve professional recognition.

✅ Medical Pioneers – Trailblazers who broke barriers, founded institutions, and advanced medical science.

✅ Civil Rights & Medicine – The role of Black doctors in advocating for healthcare rights and racial justice.

✅ Modern-Day Achievements – The ongoing impact of Black medical professionals shaping the future of healthcare.

Why This Museum Matters

For centuries, Black healers and doctors have not only healed individuals but also empowered communities, challenged discrimination, and redefined medical excellence. Understanding this history is essential in recognizing progress while addressing the ongoing fight for healthcare equity.

The virtual museum is accessible worldwide, making it an invaluable educational resource for students, researchers, and anyone passionate about history, medicine, and social justice.

Join Us in Celebrating This Legacy

The Online Museum of African Americans with a focus on Black Doctors invites the public to explore, learn, and honor the enduring contributions of Blacks and Black medical professionals. Visit us at www.MuseumofAfricanAmericans.org to experience the journey firsthand.

For media inquiries, interviews, or additional information, please contact Dr. Marie-Ange D. Tardieu at info@MuseumofafricanAmericans.org

About the Online Museum of African Americans

The Online Museum of African Americans is a virtual institution dedicated to preserving and sharing African Americans through history and in medicine. Through interactive exhibits, historical narratives, and educational resources, the museum highlights the struggles, triumphs, and impact of Blacks and their medical professionals throughout history.

📍 Website: www.MuseumofAfricanAmericans.org

Janeen Uzzell Elected to the National Academy of Engineering

The National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE®) one of the largest student-governed organizations based in the U.S., proudly announces that NSBE CEO Janeen Uzzell has been elected as a member of the National Academy of Engineering (NAE), one of the highest professional honors in the engineering field. Uzzell joins an esteemed class of 128 U.S.-based members and 22 international members newly elected to the NAE Class of 2025.

Uzzell was recognized for her pioneering efforts in providing access to health information and improving healthcare outcomes globally, as well as for advancing racial, gender and community engagement in the engineering space. The National Academy of Engineering, founded in 1964, is an independent, nonprofit institution that provides objective engineering and technology advice to the nation and recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions in research, education and leadership.

"This recognition from the NAE is a tremendous honor, and I am deeply grateful to my peers for this acknowledgment," said Uzzell. "Throughout my career, I've been passionate about creating meaningful change through engineering, particularly in underrepresented communities. As CEO of NSBE, I remain committed to expanding opportunities for Black engineers and ensuring that diversity, equity and inclusion remain at the forefront of engineering innovation."

NAE membership is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated excellence in engineering practice, made significant contributions to technological advancements and led major engineering initiatives. Uzzell's work exemplifies these criteria, particularly through her leadership in global health and her efforts to drive equity in STEM fields.

As the CEO of NSBE, Uzzell leads efforts to increase the representation of Black engineers in academia, government and industry. Under her leadership, NSBE will continue to advance its mission of supporting and empowering Black engineers to excel academically, succeed professionally and positively impact the community.

The newly elected NAE members will be formally inducted during the Academy's annual meeting in Washington, D.C., in October 2025.

For more information about NSBE and its initiatives, please visit http://www.nsbe.org/.

Embattled "Super Mayor" Tiffany Henyard loses primary election to trustee Jason House

Dolton, Illinois Village Trustee Jason House declared victory Tuesday night after trouncing embattled Mayor Tiffany Henyard in the south suburb's primary election.