Denver, CO, December 19, 2025 – After a 35-year career dedicated to service, leadership, and lifting communities closest to opportunity, AYA Foundation CEO Benny Samuel shares a heartfelt farewell. In this final reflection, she looks back on her journey—from arriving in the U.S. as a teenager to serving Colorado with intention and love—and offers wisdom, […]
A Note From My Heart: A Farewell Letter from Benny Read More »
Denver, CO – The AYA Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of Lynnette White-Colin as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective July 16, 2025. After a comprehensive, several-month national search, White-Colin, an experienced leader with a strong background in nonprofit management, entrepreneurship, and community development, will be taking the helm at Colorado’s premier Black-led
Denver, CO, March 13, 2025– The AYA Foundation, Colorado’s community foundation dedicated to supporting aspiring Black entrepreneurs, startup founders, and business owners, has announced that CEO Benny Samuels will retire in December 2025 after five years of transformative leadership. Benny Samuels’ Legacy of Leadership Samuels joined the AYA Foundation as its founding CEO and Executive
AYA Foundation Announces CEO Retirement and Initiates National Search for Successor Read More »
Hey AYA Foundation Family, I am absolutely over the moon to share with you our very first Impact Report! This report shows more than just progress; it’s a step towards building a vibrant community of Black institutions, entrepreneurs, and leaders right here in Colorado. As you scroll through the pages, you’ll see our progress in
