Black History Month Spotlight: CIS Alumni Creating Legacies

Communities In Schools® (CIS®) alumni are making an impact in big ways—whether by mentoring the next generation of CIS students, excelling in their careers, or serving their communities. This Black History Month, we honor the achievements of CIS alumni who personify the organization’s mission while creating their own legacies. From thriving at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to launching businesses and nonprofit organizations, these individuals exemplify excellence. 

Edward Paul Grogan III – Executive Director, CIS of Galveston County 

CIS alumnus Edward Paul Grogan III has dedicated his life to uplifting students and his community. As the executive director of CIS of Galveston County and a youth pastor, Edward’s journey has come full circle. 

A graduate of Wiley University (a Texas-based HBCU), Edward was recently profiled in The Post Newspaper, where he reflected on the impact CIS had on his life. He credits the program and the dedicated adults who guided him, including Mrs. Connie Hebert, his former middle school principal and former CIS executive director. 

“Communities In Schools believed in me and encouraged me to study and apply to college, and they found the funds for my college education,” he shared in the article. “Through the support of my church, family, and Communities In Schools, college was possible for me.” 

From a CIS student to site coordinator, board member, and now executive director, Edward works to ensure that future students receive the same support that shaped his success. 

Trent L. Holmes – CEO and President, Vision 26 

As CEO and president of Vision 26, a social media marketing and events production company, Trent L. Holmes is committed to empowering underrepresented communities.  

A Fayetteville, N.C. native, Trent is a leader, certified mental health specialist, and community builder. 

In addition to his work with Vision 26, Trent works with the United States Army, providing essential mental health support to soldiers. He also is a staunch youth advocate and supporter of CIS of Cumberland County/Fayetteville, where he has served as both the longest-standing and youngest board member.  

Ta’Niyah Coleman – Founder, Unbox the Cries 

A 2021 graduate of CIS of Memphis, Ta’Niyah Coleman’s journey has been one of purpose. During her senior year at Wooddale High School, CIS provided the support and encouragement she needed to pursue higher education. 

Now a senior at Lane College (an HBCU in Tennessee), Ta’Niyah has embraced leadership roles. She has served as a resident assistant and secretary of the Pre-Alumni Council and even started a mental health program, Unbox the Cries, which aims to provide students with a safe space to discuss mental health challenges. 

After graduation, Ta’Niyah plans to further her education and become a medical social worker, continuing her commitment to helping others in Georgia, Texas, or Alabama. 

Khalil Daniels – Howard University Senior 

Khalil Daniels’ passion for constitutional law and desire to solve social issues are driving forces behind his aspiration to become a lawyer.  

A senior criminology major at Howard University (a Washington, D.C.-based HBCU), Khalil attributes his success to CIS of Atlanta. With guidance from site coordinators Kendra and Tacuma Diop, Khalil gained access to scholarships, travel assistance, and vital mentorship that helped him pursue higher education at Howard. 

“Through my matriculation, Mr. and Mrs. Diop have been there every step of the way,” Khalil said. “Without CIS, I wouldn’t be graduating this May; thank you!”  
 

Communities In Schools proudly celebrates these outstanding alumni who are creating lasting legacies and transforming their communities. Their dedication to mentorship, leadership, and service inspires the next generation to dream bigger. As they pay it forward, they remind us of the power of presence and the impact one person can have on a young person’s life.