Courtesy Photo: Dr. LaVonte’ Heard For years, Dr. LaVonté L. Heard was content to keep moving forward through education, performance and service. He earned degree after degree, took on new opportunities and continued building a life centered on excellence. Celebration, however, was something he often avoided. “I refused to have anything for the four degrees I’ve earned over the years,” Heard said with a laugh, adding that he once thought such celebrations were “kind of tacky.

Courtesy Photo: Nasaan Jackson-Central State University Senior, Mr Central State University and member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. For Nasaan Jackson, the road to becoming the 19th Mister Central State University was not a single campaign but a progression built over several years. The Lansing native successfully pursued and won the titles of Mister Freshman, Mister Sophomore, Mister Junior and, ultimately, Mister Central State. Central State University reports that on

Courtesy Photo: Gospel Artist Maurice Cain followed his longtime dream of making music to show his love and dedication to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Lansing may be a smaller city, but there is no shortage of talent, creativity and memorable experiences taking place throughout the community. Maurice Cain brought all three together during the official launch celebration for The Maurice Latrall Experience, held at All Nations Church on East Saginaw Street in Lansing. The evenin

Three powerhouse moments from the 41st Stellar Gospel Music Awards:Tasha Cobbs Leonard- recipient of the Aretha Franklin Icon Award, Kirk Franklin host of the 41st Stellar Gospel Music Award| Kierra Sheard- featured performer. A night celebrating gospel music, legacy, excellence, and the voices that continue to move the culture forward. (CHARLOTTE, NC) August 17, 2026 — The Stellar Gospel Music Awards celebrated its 41st year honoring excellence in gospel music with an unfor

Courtesy Photo: Dr. Terra DeFoe When The Chronicle News first introduced audiences to Dr. Terra DeFoe through its two-part video series, From the Streets to the Suites, her story resonated. It was a story of survival, reinvention, faith and leadership, centered on a woman who refused to allow the circumstances of her beginning to dictate the possibilities of her future. The Chronicle later recognized DeFoe among its 30 Within 30: Women Making History, honoring her leadership

Not-for-profit organization is working to address the racial wealth gap in Greater Lansing caused by centuries of systemic inequalities 2026 recipients-supporters-by Paradiso Productions.jpg — Recipients of the 2026 Reparations Scholarships are surrounded by their families and supporters as well as volunteers of the Justice League of Greater Lansing Michigan at the Reparations Scholarship Reveal & Celebration event July 25. LANSING, Mich — Justice League of Greater Lansing M

DOWAGIAC, Mich. — For gospel recording artist, author and entrepreneur Bonita Mitchell, the message behind “Believe, Don’t Give Up” extends far beyond the music. This weekend, Mitchell will bring that message directly to southwest Michigan through the Believe, Don’t Give Up! Rhythm & Resource Fair, a free community event focused on hope, mental wellness, faith and practical support. The event will take place Saturday, Aug. 22, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Mt. Zion Missionary Bap

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CHARLOTTE, N.C.) — July 23, 2026 — The 41st Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awardsprepares to make its highly anticipated return, the 5th Annual Stellar Plus Experience will transform Charlotte into the epicenter of gospel music, faith, culture and entertainment with three immersive days of exclusive events, interactive programming and unforgettable fan experiences. Now in its third year, the Stellar Unplugged Music Experience, presented by Amazon Music in partnership with The R

How one father’s unimaginable loss became a movement of hope, skilled trades and healing throughout an entire community. Courtesy Photo: City of Lansing officially recognizing Aug. 1 as “Mikey 23 Day.” The proclamation honors the work of the Mikey 23 Foundation, which transforms tragedy into hope by empowering youth through skilled trades, mentorship and community service When the City of Lansing officially proclaimed Aug. 1 as “Mikey 23 Day,” it wasn’t simply recognizing a n

(July 22, 2026 – Nashville, TN) – BMIcelebrated the best in Gospel music today at the 2026 BMI Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards held at BMI’s Nashville office. Multiple award-winning artist and songwriter Kierra Sheard received the BMI Impact Award in recognition of her impressive career and impact on the future of gospel music. Sheard was also honored as BMI’s Gospel Songwriter of the Yearin a three-way tie with her brother J Drew Sheard II and Kerry Douglas. BMI’s Gospel

Acclaimed hip-hop artist 1K Phew releases his highly anticipated album, Any Given Sunday, today. Known for his electrifying delivery and uplifting storytelling, 1K Phew continues to break creative ground with this powerful new project. Any Given Sunday offers a dynamic collection of tracks, pairing infectious beats with authentic, motivational messages. The album reflects 1K Phew’s journey and growth as both an artist and a voice in modern hip-hop, featuring a balance of high

Christian Hip Hop and R&B artist Mike Teezyreleases his highly anticipated new album, CHAMELEON, today - Friday, May 15th. Now available on all digital streaming platforms. The project features the standout singles “Cup of Tea,” “For My Good” featuring Erica Campbell, and “Time 4U” featuring Kierra Sheard. Ahead of the release, Mike Teezy recently surpassed 100 million digital streams across all platforms — a major milestone reflecting both his artistic impact and the growing

As families across Greater Lansing prepare for another school year, one of the community's most anticipated back-to-school celebrations returns with a day filled with hope, generosity, and unforgettable memories. Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church, under the leadership of Bishop Dr. Ed Rockett, will host Pilgrim Fest 2026 on Saturday, August 29, from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at 5200 Pleasant Grove Road in Lansing. The annual community festival has become a signature event that brings to

Courtesy Photo: First Lady Bonita Mitchell As communities across the nation celebrate Black Music Month and honor the powerful role music plays in healing, empowerment, and social change, gospel recording artist, author, entrepreneur, and First Lady Bonita Mitchell is using her voice to launch a movement rooted in faith, resilience, and restoration. Through her new single, "Believe, Don’t Give Up," Mitchell is inviting individuals and families to rediscover hope through the B

For Angel Taylor, investing in young people is more than a calling, it is a lifelong commitment to building stronger families and communities through education, mentorship, and service. As the leader of the Reading Readiness Summer Camp hosted at Christ’s Kingdom Builders Church and Community Center, Taylor works to create meaningful opportunities for youth to learn, grow, and discover their potential. The free summer program provides academic enrichment, cultural education,

Art has the power to tell stories, spark conversations, and bring people together. Few artists embody that belief more fully than Sera Renee’. A multidisciplinary artist, creative entrepreneur, and founder of Contrasted Content, Sera Renee’ has built a reputation for creating immersive artistic experiences that challenge perspectives and celebrate human connection. Her work spans painting, body art, public installations, community engagement projects, and live artistic perfor

Courtesy Photo: The Honorable Judge Wanda Stokes. 30th District Circuit Court Ingham County Michigan For decades, Judge Wanda M. Stokes has been a respected leader, advocate, and trailblazer whose work has helped shape communities throughout Mid-Michigan. Her distinguished career in law, public service, and community leadership has earned her recognition as one of the region’s most influential voices for justice, equity, and opportunity. Throughout her career, Judge Stokes ha

On Saturday, May 16, 2026, my son Liam and I had the pleasure of attending the 27th Annual Against All Odds “Wings of Hope” Brunch, held at the MSUFCU Building in East Lansing, Michigan. From the moment guests walked through the doors, the atmosphere felt warm, uplifting, and filled with purpose. Purple butterflies, soft floral arrangements, and messages of hope decorated the room, serving as beautiful reminders of transformation, survival, and strength. It was more than jus

Courtesy Photo: A voice born from purpose, not pressure. Makayla Cain represents the next generation of storytellers, where courage meets calling and personal truth becomes a global conversation. A Legacy Rooted in Wisdom Makayla’s voice is not just a breakthrough, it is part of a lineage. In a previous Chronicle feature, “Remembering How to Raise Our Children: A Talk with Dr. Eugene Cain ,” he spoke to the importance of intentional parenting, community responsibility, and th