Connect with us

Technology

TAPROOT BOARD OF DIRECTORS WELCOMES RUSSATTA BUFORD, TIMOTHY McCLIMON, AND JUNNA RO

Published

2 years ago

on

New board members bring expertise in nonprofit operations, finance,
law and passion for skilled volunteering

NEW YORK, June 25, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Taproot is pleased to announce the election of three new members to its Board of Directors:  Russatta Buford, Timothy McClimon, and Junna Ro. Each is a professional at the top of their field with expertise in operations, finance, nonprofit management, and legal compliance, as well as a passion for Taproot’s mission. With more than 20 years of expertise, Taproot is a leading voice in the field of pro bono service, connecting volunteers skilled in areas such as marketing, strategic planning, HR, technology, and finance with social good organizations in need of their support.

Russatta Buford brings more than 20 years of experience in strategy, operational excellence, and change management. She participated in her first Taproot project in 2016 while working with American Express, and it was that experience that propelled a career shift from the private to nonprofit sector. Buford most recently led finance, operations, and human resources at the Ms. Foundation for Women. Prior to that, she served as the Chief Operating Officer and Interim CEO at DataKind, and held leadership positions at Teach for America, Brooklyn Org, and Global Health Corps. Before working in nonprofits, Buford worked in oil & gas and financial services. She holds a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from Florida A&M University and an MBA from the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan.   

“I am passionate about acting responsibly to address the societal challenges we face. In order to do that effectively, it takes all of us—regardless of our sector,” Buford shared. “Taproot is largely responsible for my career shift to the nonprofit sector over a decade ago and I’m honored to be in a position to contribute to Taproot’s continued impact.”

Timothy McClimon is a strategic nonprofit and corporate executive and consultant who serves as President of The Celeste Group, a management consulting firm, and as the Executive Director of Signature Theatre, a nonprofit in New York. Previously, McClimon served as President of the American Express Foundation and Senior Vice President at American Express, as well as working with AT&T Foundation, Second Stage Theater, and as a lawyer for nonprofit clients. McClimon is a dynamic thought leader in corporate social responsibility, leadership development, and nonprofit management. He is a regular contributor to Forbes, an adjunct professor at New York University, and serves on the boards of Signature Theatre and the Mark Morris Dance Group. 

“As a former business and foundation executive, I have long admired Taproot’s expertise in recruiting, training, and placing corporate volunteers with nonprofit organizations in need of assistance,” McClimon shared. “Now as a nonprofit leader, I more fully understand Taproot’s place in the sector. I am proud and humbled to join the Taproot Board of Directors and be part of the team that helps sustain the organization’s vital place in the nonprofit world.”

Junna Ro is a seasoned legal and compliance executive with experience in higher education, insurance, and technology. She currently leads strategic legal initiatives at the University of California Office of the President (UCOP), which serves as the headquarters for the university system’s ten campuses, five medical centers, and three affiliated national labs. Ro previously served as General Counsel and Head of People at Metromile; VP, Chief Ethics & Compliance Officer for AAA; and Corporate Counsel for Symantec and VERITAS Software in Silicon Valley. She serves on the board of Community Boards, the longest–running nonprofit conflict resolution and restorative justice center in the country, and on the advisory council for the Asian Pacific Fund. Ro earned her JD from Santa Clara University School of Law, and her BA in Political Science from UCLA.  

“I am honored and thrilled to join the board of Taproot, to further their commitment to help nonprofits access skilled pro bono resources,” Ro said. “Taproot’s values of authentic engagement, passionate optimism, and realistic impact-orientation resonate deeply for me. I look forward to meaningfully supporting its work to advance resource equity, strengthen communities, and drive sustainable social change.”

The three new members were recommended to the Board of Directors by former Taproot CEO Linsday Gruber in one of her final acts before departing the organization in June. Taproot is grateful for her leadership during this transition and looks forward to the strategic insights that Russatta Buford, Timothy McClimon, and Junna Ro will bring to the Board.

About Taproot:

Taproot is a nonprofit organization that connects social change organizations with passionate, skilled volunteers who share their expertise pro bono. Taproot’s programs help organizations overcome their most pressing challenges and create lasting impact in their communities. Learn more at www.taprootfoundation.org.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/taproot-board-of-directors-welcomes-russatta-buford-timothy-mcclimon-and-junna-ro-302182067.html

SOURCE Taproot Foundation

Related Topics:
Continue Reading

Technology

STEPHEN A. SMITH ADDRESSES WHITE HOUSE DINNER ATTENDANCE, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO HBCUs AND PROTECTING CORPORATE INVESTMENT IN BLACK EDUCATION

Published

28 minutes ago

on

October 24, 2026

By

NEW YORK, Oct. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Stephen A. Smith, media mogul, New York Times bestselling author, and proud 1991 graduate of Winston-Salem State University, is addressing the public discussion surrounding his decision to attend a White House dinner with President Donald Trump, emphasizing his commitment to the long-term financial stability of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

For Smith, the decision was rooted in a commitment to institutions that have educated generations of Black leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, and public servants.

“I will always advocate for HBCUs and the students whose futures depend on them,” Smith said. “My reason for attending the White House dinner was to discuss the challenges these institutions face in securing long-term funding and to make the case that corporate America must continue to invest in them.”

Smith acknowledged federal support through the FUTURE Act while expressing concern that political tensions surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) could discourage private companies from supporting HBCUs. He maintains that these institutions deserve sustained corporate partnerships, philanthropic contributions, and public investment.

“If we truly believe in free-market capitalism, businesses should be able to support educational institutions and charitable causes without fear of criticism or repercussions,” Smith said. “HBCUs have made extraordinary contributions to this country. They deserve sustained public and private investment.”

Ashley Christopher, Esq., Founder and CEO of the HBCU Week Foundation, recognized Smith’s advocacy and decision to engage with the administration.

“Stephen A. Smith has been a powerful advocate for HBCUs, using his platform and influence to shine a national spotlight on our institutions,” expressed Christopher, “His continued support of HBCU Week helps advance our mission of connecting students with life-changing educational opportunities, and we are proud to have him as our ambassador.”

Since Smith became an HBCU Week Ambassador in 2019, the initiative has facilitated more than 15,000 on-the-spot college acceptances and raised and awarded more than $150 million in scholarships, according to the HBCU Week Foundation.

As public discussion continues, Smith is emphasizing the importance of ensuring HBCUs have the resources and partnerships needed to educate future generations and expand opportunities for students.

CLICK HERE to watch Smith’s full response to his White House visit.

MEDIA CONTACT:

media@mrsasinc.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/stephen-a-smith-addresses-white-house-dinner-attendance-reaffirms-commitment-to-hbcus-and-protecting-corporate-investment-in-black-education-302918547.html

SOURCE Straight Shooter Media

Continue Reading

Technology

Advantex Announces Completion of Financing and Extension of Maturity Date of Previously Issued Debentures

Published

28 minutes ago

on

October 24, 2026

By

TORONTO, Oct. 23, 2026 /CNW/ — Advantex Marketing International Inc. (CSE: ADX) (“Advantex”), a leader in the merchant cash advance and loyalty marketing products for merchants, today announced the completion of a $250,000 secured debt financing. Advantex issued a $250,000 non-convertible debenture which bears an interest rate at 12% per annum and matures December 15, 2027. The proceeds raised from this issuance of the Debenture will be used for working capital purposes.

Advantex has also extended the maturity of its existing $700,000 in 12% secured debentures from October 10, 2026 to December 15, 2027.

About Advantex Marketing International Inc.

Advantex provides working capital to merchants. Advantex also provides specialized marketing programs that enable members of Aeroplan to earn Aeroplan points at participating merchants.

Advantex shares trade on the Canadian Securities Exchange under the symbol ADX. For more information go to Advantex’s profile on www.sedar.com

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable securities laws relating to the future business and operations of Advantex. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements. The business and operations of Advantex described herein is dependent on a number of factors and is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. Factors that could cause actual results to differ material include, but are not limited to, changes in Advantex’s economic and competitive conditions including but not limited to the industry sectors in which Advantex operates.

The statements in this news release are made of the date of this release. Forward-looking statements are made based on management’s beliefs, estimates and opinions on the date the statements are made and Advantex undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as required by applicable law.

SOURCE Advantex Marketing International Inc.

Continue Reading

Technology

Club Offers for Travel Enthusiasts in Canada

Published

1 hour ago

on

October 23, 2026

By

TORONTO, Oct 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Travelzoo® (NASDAQ: TZOO), the club for travel enthusiasts, announces three of many new Club Offers for Club Members in Canada.

Rigorously vetted and negotiated for us travel enthusiasts:

$799—COSTA RICA WEEK WITH FLIGHTS & CAR
We think fall is an ideal time to visit Costa Rica; the scenery is lush and the crowds are gone. Drive between volcanic Arenal and the idyllic beaches of Tamarindo on this seven-night trip. Since it’s not as busy, we were able to negotiate a price that saves members up to $648 on departures through mid-December.

$899—BARCELONA: 5 NIGHTS WITH FLIGHTS
Explore Barcelona’s world-class museums and architectural masterpieces in the quieter winter months to pack more into your trip. You won’t waste hours in lines and can access top restaurants that are fully booked in summer. We save $300 on travel this January and February, when temperatures are still spring-like. Roundtrip flights from Toronto, hotel and daily breakfast are included.

$999—ST. KITTS GETAWAY FOR 2, REG. $2083
Most visitors to St. Kitts book months in advance, but when we pointed out that travel enthusiasts are more spontaneous, this resort gave us a terrific rate for stays this November and December. Spend four nights in Frigate Bay and get an upgraded Oceanview room, too.

Are you a travel enthusiast? Join the club today: https://travelzoo.com

Who are we?
We, Travelzoo®, are the club for travel enthusiasts. We reach 30 million travellers. Club Members receive Club Offers negotiated and rigorously vetted by our deal experts around the globe. Our relationships with thousands of top travel companies give us access to irresistible deals. Our club and its benefits are built around the lifestyle of a modern travel enthusiast.

Media Contact: 
Amanda Ieraci – Toronto
+1 437 866 8540
aieraci@travelzoo.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/club-offers-for-travel-enthusiasts-in-canada-302918543.html

SOURCE Travelzoo

Continue Reading

Trending