While 2023 in sneaker culture wraps up with beefs and complaints about the top sneakers of the year, brands committed to the work of improving communities quietly continue to do so with real dollars and support. In 2018 New Balance established the Motley Chair.
The endowment is headed and was created in conjunction with two Black men, Dr. J. Keith Motley (who the chair was named after) and Charlie Titus (Vice Chancellor of Athletics and Recreation at UMASS Boston).
Without any fanfare or chest thumping NB added onto their contribution with an additional $10 million dollars. “Since the program opened in fall 2019, it has grown to 127 students majoring in sport leadership and administration, with another 34 students having already graduated. Students in the program have participated in a combined 10,000 hours of internships in the sport industry. An aim of the new institute is to expand internship and employment opportunities.”
It’s dope that New Balance has given black creators an opportunity to make a sneaker, but it’s even better that this program supports and empowers a generation of leaders in the sports and footwear industry which can always use a shot of diversity. Use the source link to learn more about the continued investment in higher learning and social responsibility.
