Power Hour Brings Leaders to CCP for Engaging and Informative Discussions

This semester, Community College of Philadelphia launched a new, monthly series, “Power Hour,” which aims to connect students with elected officials and leaders across industries and disciplines within the city. The purpose of these sessions is to create a safe space for uplifting and meaningful dialogues about topics essential to the well-being of our community members and our city. Each event has offered meaningful discussions about resources and first-hand experiences to inform and inspire attendees.

The first event on Sept. 15, with the theme Sharp Minds Start Here, focused on mental health awareness and available resources available to our communities. The College welcomed three guest speakers: State Representative Regina Young of the 185th Legislative District; City Councilmember Anthony Phillips of the 9th Council District; and Kenneth McDuffie, a chef, culinary entrepreneur and media personality. The panel was moderated by Elisa King, a counselor at CCP, who fielded questions from the audience.

The Oct. 7 Power Hour, Power at the Polls and Beyond, focused on the importance of voting and using your voice to create change in the community. The event featured guest panelists Omar Sabir, chair of City Commissioners, County of Philadelphia; Abu Edwards, director of the Mayor's Office of Black Male Engagement, City of Philadelphia; Keir Bradford-Grey, Esq., department lead of Civil Rights Litigation, Marrone Law Firm; and Nyia Moore, Philadelphia-based lifestyle entrepreneur, author and influencer. Malika Rahman, assistant professor and curriculum coordinator of Criminal Justice, served as the moderator.

Guest panelists at the Nov. 18 session, Resilience, Representation and the Road to Leadership, spoke about their personal and professional journeys, how they overcame obstacles, and the importance of diversity in leadership, especially for youth. Attendees had the opportunity to learn from the experiences and insights of Dr. Nina Ahmad, an At-Large member, Philadelphia City Council; Rickey Duncan, the CEO of New Options More Opportunities (NOMO) Foundation; Judge Timika Lane of the Pennsylvania Superior Court; and Rochelle Bilal, sheriff of Philadelphia County. The conversation was moderated by Billy Love, an associate professor of Criminal Justice.

The Chief Engagement office looks forward to continuing Power Hour events in the spring 2026 semester and offering students, faculty, and staff empowering and enlightening discussions with Philadelphia leaders.