Donna ‘Jawana’ Norris is a creative spirit who uses her talents of dance, song, and art to share the accomplishments of the Black diaspora with everyone she meets. Her determination to share the stories of Black people with children and her ability to educate and instill pride in heritage is powerful. Jawana has celebrated Black culture with the library and community for the last two decades, impacting Denver’s youth for many generations. Not only does she foster their talents, but reminds them that they are creating history right now.
Chandra Thomas Whitfield is an award-winning multimedia journalist who has dedicated her life to uplifting, acknowledging, and celebrating diverse voices in Colorado and beyond. Her work has been featured in local and national mediums and she co-hosts and produces Colorado Matters, a public affairs show on Colorado Public Radio. She’s covered many significant stories including the historic number of Black women judges appointed by Governor Polis for Essence magazine. Chandra has been a valuable member of the Denver community.