MORNING ANNOUNCEMENTS

The official newsletter of the Seven Pearls Foundation, Inc.

(a 501 (c) (3) organization)

Vol. 16

July 2026

President's Corner

Good morning, Seven Pearls Family!

This summer break, as I take time to rest and catch up on my favorite shows, I also finding myself reflecting on the incredible journey I’ve had as President/CEO of the Seven Pearls Foundation, Inc. I’m so proud of all we’ve accomplished together, thanks to our phenomenal Board of Directors, amazing supporters, and my cherished family. Without this incredible support system, none of it would have been possible! I feel truly blessed to be surrounded by a fierce and wise circle of women who have encouraged me to be my authentic self and played a pivotal role in shaping my leadership path. Their love and resources have been invaluable. Staying open to learning has been key to growing as a leader. I am honored to serve and humble for the opportunity to improve—not just as a woman, but as engaged member of my community and organization.  

As we welcome new leadership this July, I’m excited and confident the Foundation will continue to thrive and pursue our mission with the same passion and purpose that defines us. Here’s to celebrating our successes and embracing the exciting journey ahead—let’s keep shining bright and carrying forward the legacy of our beloved Pearls.

Always for the Seven,

Linette Y. Caroselli

President/CEO of Seven Pearls Foundation, Inc.

Crowning Efforts with Success Award Nominations

WE WANT TO CELEBRATE YOU!

On the seventh of each month, the Seven Pearls Foundation will spotlight and award an individual, group or chapter that embodies the grand legacy of our seven illustrious Founders.

Do you know a group or individual deserving of this honor? Feel free to send their name, photo, brief bio and email address to Morning Announcements at: create@sevenpearls.org.

Criteria for the "Crowning Efforts with Success" Award:

• Open to all professions
• Does not have to be a Soror
• Brief explanation on how the candidate embodies the legacy and vision of the Founders
• Their philosophy on education or sisterhood
• Examples of community service or programs implemented



Nominate someone today!

Crowning Efforts with Success Award

Dr. Felicia D. Blakeney is the Seven Pearls Foundation's Crowning Efforts with Success Award recipient for July 2026!

Dr. Felicia D. Blakeney, Ed.D., is an accomplished educator, career coach, facilitator, and higher education leader with more than 20 years of experience advancing student success, workforce development, and organizational excellence. Throughout her career, she has been committed to empowering individuals through education, strategic leadership, and innovative career development initiatives.

Dr. Blakeney most recently served as a certified Career Coach, where she provided career coaching, résumé development, interview preparation, and career planning to military spouses worldwide. She previously served in elected institutional governance roles at Northern Virginia Community College, where she specialized in academic advising, workforce development, curriculum design, student success, and postsecondary instruction.

She earned a Doctor of Education and a Master of Science in Education from Capella University and a Bachelor of Science in Public Relations from Syracuse University. She is recognized for her collaborative leadership, strategic vision, and unwavering commitment to lifelong learning and professional excellence.

A dedicated servant leader, Dr. Blakeney is an active member of The Fayetteville (NC) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, where she is committed to friendship and service. She is also a member of Top Ladies of Distinction (TLOD), Incorporated, serves on the Board of Directors of the Seven Pearls Foundation, Incorporated. Through her professional and civic leadership, Dr. Blakeney remains devoted to creating opportunities that strengthen individuals, families, and communities while exemplifying the values of integrity, excellence, and service.

Did you know that it was the visionary Dr. Blakeney who coined the name "Notable Northeastern Region" during her impactful tenure as the 19th Northeastern Region Syntaktes (Director) for Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated? Her remarkable leadership was not only about branding the region; she also catalyzed significant growth by successfully chartering the Kappa Theta Sigma Chapter in Seoul, Korea. Dr. Blakeney's pioneering spirit exemplifies the essence of empowerment and sets a powerful precedent for fostering leadership among women. Her achievements inspire us all to seek opportunities for personal and professional development, aligning perfectly with the mission of the Seven Pearls Foundation. Let us honor her legacy by reflecting on how we can contribute to our community's growth and make a meaningful difference, just as Dr. Blakeney did through her dedicated leadership.



It is our esteemed honor to present Dr. Felicia D. Blakeney as this month's recipient of the Crowning Efforts with Success Award.

Join us in giving this exceptional Soror her flowers!



Healthy Horizons is a dedicated section to

empower women with knowledge and tools

to thrive in wellness.

Bebe Moore Campbell:

The Woman Who Changed the Way We Look at Mental Health

In 2005, inspired by the unwavering dedication of Bebe Moore Campbell to eliminate stigma and provide essential mental health information, her dear friend Linda Wharton-Boyd proposed the remarkable idea of dedicating a month to this vital cause. Tragically, in November 2006, we lost Campbell to her battle with cancer, yet her spirit ignited a renewed commitment among friends, family, and advocates alike to carry forth her legacy. This passion culminated in 2008 when July was officially designated as Bebe Moore Campbell Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, thanks to the resolute efforts of Rep. Albert Wynn [D-MD] and a bipartisan coalition. This initiative aims to achieve two critical goals: to enhance access to mental health treatment and services while simultaneously raising public awareness of mental illness, particularly within underserved communities. By recognizing this month, we not only honor Campbell's legacy but also strive to foster a more compassionate and informed society regarding mental health challenges faced by many.

Bebe had masterfully harnessed the power of storytelling as a vital form of advocacy, ensuring that the narratives of those often marginalized resonate at the forefront of her impactful work. As a best-selling author, her celebrated books, including “Your Blues Ain’t Like Mine,” “Singing in the Comeback Choir,” “72 Hour Hold,” and “Sometimes Mommy Gets Angry,” have not only garnered numerous prestigious honors but have also illuminated the pressing issues of racism and mental health. Beyond her literary achievements, Bebe's voice as a National Public Radio commentator amplified her commitment to dismantling the stigma surrounding mental health while navigating the unique intersections of being a Black woman in America. Her unwavering dedication to these critical conversations aligns beautifully with The Seven Pearls Foundation's mission to empower women and girls, reminding us of the strength found in shared narratives and the importance of uplifting voices that often go unheard.

May her legacy serve as a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have in the lives of many, urging you to harness your unique voice and ignite your passion for transformative change. It is through collective action that we can forge a future where every person's mental health is prioritized, and where diversity is not just embraced but celebrated. Let us come together to uplift marginalized communities, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued. In this shared journey, we have the opportunity to create a more equitable world where the spirit of sisterhood and solidarity thrives, inspiring us all to contribute to a brighter tomorrow.

Health Disclaimer 

This article is meant to inform and empower, but it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always speak with your healthcare provider about any questions or concerns regarding your health, screenings, or symptoms. Everyone’s health journey is unique. Learn your body, listen to your body, and get personalized guidance from a qualified professional.

Community Contributions

We want YOU to be a part of the Morning Announcements community!

Each issue of Morning Announcements is available on our website at sevenpearls.org, where you can explore past newsletters, stories, and exciting opportunities.

Contact: create@sevenpearls.org