Lincoln-Way East Black Student Union Hosts Career Panel

FRANKFORT, IL — Lincoln-Way East’s Black Student Union recently hosted a career panel with local black business owners- Brian Griffith, Smoothie King franchise owner; Kim Tyler, owner of Centennial Lanes 2.0; State Farm Agent Cynthia Means; and Anittra Alexander, owner of Celebrity Hair Boutique.

The district said each business owner shared their personal journey to success, goals for their
businesses, and suggestions on how to overcome ignorance when it comes to being a black business owner.

“There is a perception that as a black man, I can’t run a business,” said Griffith. “You overcome that by arming yourself with information and education. Build relationships outside of your circle.”

Event organizers hope their peers walk out of the room knowing they can start any business or do anything they put their mind to, according to the district.

“This is a way for a generation to talk to the next generation to better the future,” said BSU Vice President Christion Lloyd.