HBCU Green Fund, a non-profit organization founded by environmental leader Felicia Davis, is making strides in inspiring environmental stewardship through the launch of their publishing brand. The inaugural release by HBCU Green Fund is a children’s book titled MSITU: The Old-Growth Forest, written by three women in STEM, Serena Echols, Imani Blue, and Nia McKenzie, all of whom are Spelman college students or alumna. The book, illustrated by Niara Powell, takes young readers on a magical journey into an old-growth forest, where they learn about the delicate balance of nature and the importance of protecting the environment.
The authors hope that MSITU: The Old-Growth Forest will ignite the imagination of young readers by weaving messages about teamwork, understanding, and the power of nature. By teaching children about unity, the forest, and the significance of nurturing and safeguarding the environment, the book aims to inspire environmental stewardship from an early age.
Illai Kenney, the director of HBCU Green Fund, emphasizes the importance of instilling a sense of interconnectedness between humans, nonhumans, and the environment from birth. Kenney believes that teaching environmentally-friendly habits to young children, such as water conservation and recycling, will have a positive impact on future generations and contribute to a more sustainable world.
Felicia Davis, the founder of HBCU Green Fund, describes MSITU as a delightful read that inspires environmental stewardship. The book not only introduces young readers to the wonders of an urban old-growth forest but also highlights the exceptional talents of the authors and illustrator involved in creating it.
HBCU Green Fund’s publishing group aims to empower and amplify the voices of authors from historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) by providing a platform for them to contribute to the conversation on environmental issues. The organization’s work extends beyond publishing, encompassing various programs and initiatives that advance sustainability, environmental justice, and student engagement in green initiatives.
For more information about HBCU Green Fund books or programs, please visit hbcugreenfund.org or follow @hbcugreenfund on social media.
Media Contacts:
Edrea Davis, Jazzmyne PR, 818.613.9521 or edmedia@dogonvillage.com
Makeda Smith, Jazzmyne PR, jazzmynepr@gmail.com
MSITU: The Old-Growth Forest is available for purchase on Amazon.com and other platforms where books are sold.
