Passing the Torch: Dr. Alex Gee hands Nehemiah over to Harry Hawkins

In this week’s episode of 365 Amplified, hosts Stephanie Díaz de León, Rob Chappell, and Omar Waheed dive into local news and the real-world implications of artificial intelligence in journalism. Omar recaps his trip to Detroit for the Online News Association’s AI Summit and reflects on how media organizations must evolve alongside emerging technologies.

The team also covers local news, including the opening of the Atwood Music Hall and an ongoing grassroots campaign to recall a DeForest village trustee following a controversial fluoride vote and reported harassment of local residents.

Later in the episode, Rob sits down for an in-depth conversation with Dr. Alex Gee and Harry Hawkins at Fountain of Life Church. Dr. Gee reflects on three decades of leading the Nehemiah Center for Urban Leadership Development and explains why he’s stepping aside to let Harry take the helm. Harry shares his journey from jewelry retail to nonprofit leadership and lays out his vision for Nehemiah’s next chapter — one centered on community-informed innovation, transformational leadership, and Black excellence.

Plus, the team wraps the episode with a fun chat about what they wish they had endless access to.

This week's episode is brought to you by Steinhafels, having their biggest Memorial Day sale ever right now.

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