DMV CHAPTER PREPARING FOR LAUNCH

The momentum behind Black In HR isn’t slowing down. It is expanding with purpose.

What started as a bold vision to connect and elevate Black HR professionals across the country is now taking deeper root in one of the nation’s most influential regions. With the official launch of its DMV (D.C., Maryland, Virginia) Chapter, Black In HR is bringing that vision closer to home for professionals ready to grow, lead, and build community where they are.

This is more than a new chapter. It is a signal.

A signal that Black HR professionals in the DMV no longer have to navigate their careers in isolation. A signal that leadership, opportunity, and connection are being built intentionally within one of the most powerful regions in the country.

At the center of this launch is Tawana Bhagwat, Chapter President, stepping into the role with clarity and conviction. She is joined by a leadership team built to create real impact:

• James Jackson, Vice President of Membership Engagements

• Gia Stancel Wilkerson, Director of Events

• James Massey, Partnerships Director

• Dr. Arnicia Arrington, Community Relations Director

• Ciera Parks, Chapter Brand Ambassador

Together, this team brings the experience, energy, and commitment needed to build something meaningful in the DMV.

“This chapter is about more than networking,” Tawana shared. “It is about creating a space where we can come together, support one another, and build pathways for growth, influence, and impact.”

That focus is what sets the DMV Chapter apart.

DMV Chapter Ambassador Ciera Parks speaking at Black In HR's Business of You Conference.

It will serve as a hub for HR executives, emerging professionals, and leaders who are serious about advancing their careers while contributing to something bigger than themselves.

“This moment is about access and alignment. The DMV is filled with Black HR talent that deserves to be seen, supported, and connected to real opportunities. This chapter creates the space for that to happen in a powerful way.." Ciera shared.

Through curated events, professional development, and strategic partnerships, the chapter is designed to create both immediate value and long-term impact.

And this is just the beginning.

The DMV Chapter will soon roll out a series of upcoming events designed to bring the community together, from networking experiences to leadership conversations and career-building opportunities. These moments will create space for connection, visibility, and real growth for members across the region.

Zooming out, this launch is part of a larger movement.

Black In HR continues to grow into a national network rooted in representation, access, and excellence. Each new chapter strengthens that mission by making the community more accessible and more impactful at the local level.

“Launching the DMV Chapter is another step in building intentional spaces where Black HR professionals can lead, connect, and thrive,” said Prathan Powell, CEO of Black In HR. “We are not just building chapters. We are building ecosystems of support, influence, and opportunity and the DMV Chapter is positioned to be a powerful part of that ecosystem."

Black In HR Members toasting the launch of chapters around the country.

With strong leadership, a clear vision, and a community ready to engage, this chapter is stepping in with purpose and building something that will last. Because when Black HR professionals are connected, supported, and empowered in the right rooms, the entire industry shifts.

And that shift is already underway.

Now it is your move.

If you are a Black HR professional in the DMV or looking to tap into a national network that is serious about your growth, your leadership, and your earning potential, this is where you belong.

Join Black In HR. Get connected. Get in the room.

Because the opportunities you are looking for are not just out there. They are being built right here.