CNX and Pittsburgh Penguins Celebrate Black Hockey History across Appalachian Basin
During Saturday night’s face-off between the Pittsburgh Penguins and New Jersey Devils, CNX teamed up with the Penguins to educate fans on the history of Black Americans in hockey.
February 22, 2023
From waving rally towels with regional industry leaders to sharing CNX Foundation’s impact on elevating local black communities, this year’s Black Hockey History Game presented by CNX fueled an exciting path forward through PPG Paints Arena. During Saturday night’s face-off between the Pittsburgh Penguins and New Jersey Devils, CNX teamed up with the Penguins to educate fans on the history of Black Americans in hockey.
“Our Appalachia First vision seeks diverse opportunities for all to thrive in the region—on and off the ice,” said Yemi Akinkugbe, Chief Excellence Officer, CNX Resources Corporation. “I believe that the awareness driven by Saturday’s game should create a recognition of Black American accomplishment history while creating avenues of prosperity for our region’s future generations to capitalize on.”
CNX welcomed Pittsburgh executives and community partners from the Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC), UPMC, graduates and staff from The Advanced Leadership Institute, among others, to join in the festivities. Fans in attendance received a rally towel, viewed work from local artist Brandon Jennings and heard the black national anthem sung by the Mt. Ararat Baptist Church Choir.
“As we look for more ways to create positive, systemic change on and off the ice, our partnership with CNX during Black History Month is a natural fit,” said Delvina Morrow, Pittsburgh Penguins Senior Director of Strategic Community Initiatives and DEI. “By promoting the importance of Black hockey history, we hope to inspire greater opportunities for the future of the National Hockey League right here in Pittsburgh.”
“We’d like to share appreciation for the Pittsburgh Penguins, City of Pittsburgh Councilman Dan Lavelle and State Representative LaTasha Mayes and our partners for joining CNX Foundation and the Mentorship Academy in observance of Black Hockey History Day,” said Akinkugbe.
CNX Foundation is continuing its support of Black History Month throughout February. Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter for additional updates.