Post by Christopher Arceneaux

Yesterday, watching the Black Inclusion Group ring the Nasdaq bell was bigger than a moment…it was a reminder of what’s possible when vision, community, and persistence come together. As a former Global Co-Chair, I couldn’t be more proud of how far BIG has come. What has always made this group special isn’t just the programs, events, or recognition. It’s the people. Resourceful. Unapologetically ambitious. Relentlessly committed to lifting as we climb. Nasdaq’s tagline is “Rewrite Tomorrow,” and that’s exactly what this community continues to do. We challenge assumptions, create opportunities, develop leaders, and open doors that didn’t previously exist. We don’t wait for the future—we help shape it. Something Gary said yesterday stayed with me: “We’re standing in the middle of a dream that was set years ago” by him and Venus That perspective hit home. Too often we focus on the next goal, the next milestone, the next challenge. We forget to pause and recognize that many of the things we’re experiencing today were once ideas scribbled on whiteboards, conversations between leaders, or hopes carried by people willing to invest their time and energy into something bigger than themselves. This moment is proof that seeds matter. The seeds planted by servant leaders. The seeds planted by leaders who believed before there was evidence. And yesterday, we get to stand in the shade of trees that many people may never know they helped grow. Grateful for everyone who has contributed to this journey. Proud of where we are. Even more excited about where we’re going. The future isn’t something we inherit. It’s something we build. Major love to the current and former co-chairs. People don’t know the energy and effort that goes into this work. Gary E. Venus Smith Tyrona Heath Deserrie Perez #BIGMoment #LinkedinatNasdaq