This week, VTA wraps up its month-long observation of Black History Month, but our longstanding commitment to equity and diversity remain ongoing, both internally and externally. On VTA’s Twitter account this month, VTA highlighted current and past Black role models who have shaped and are shaping a pathway to equity. Such figures as Cynthia Marshall the first Black woman CEO of an NBA team, the Dallas Mavericks; Dr. Kizzmekia "Kizzy" Corbett, an immunologist who worked to help develop the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine; and, of course, Rosa Parks, whose birthday on Feb. 4 is now recognized as Transit Equity Day.

Closer to home, of course we couldn’t be prouder of Nuria Fernandez, who was appointed as the Acting Administrator and senior official of the Federal Transit Administration last month. With more than 35 years of experience, Fernandez has made a name for herself as an inspiring leader in the transportation industry. She served as the General Manager and CEO of VTA for the prior six years before heading to Washington, D.C.

This week, VTAs regular “Visit, Travel, Adventure” social media series will highlight local Black-Owned restaurants. This list is courtesy of the San Jose Convention & Visitors Bureau’s Team San Jose. While February is coming to a close, we encourage you to keep celebrating, keep advocating, and keep supporting our African-American role models and businesses.