Black Founders Legacy of Entrepreneurship in Philadelphia Panel Discussion 

Inspired by the historical legacies of Black entrepreneurship presented in the special exhibition Black Founders: The Forten Family of Philadelphia, the Museum presented a special evening event and panel discussion on Oct. 19, 2023, hosted by Karla Trotman, CEO and owner of Electro Soft, Inc., who serves on the Museum’s Board of Directors and Black Founders Exhibition Committee. With opening remarks by Regina A. Hairston, President & CEO of the African-American Chamber of Commerce of PA, NJ, & DE, and Museum Curator of Exhibitions Matthew Skic, Trotman facilitated a discussion with panelists Steven Scott Bradley, Jason M. Coles, Nia Eubanks-Dixon, Chef Kurt Evans, and Derek S. Green, who explored how James Forten’s successful enterprises, philanthropic mission, and influential networks connect with Black founders of Philadelphia businesses today.