body
WHEREAS, Vernard Alexander has been referred to as “The Connecting King” for many years. He is the go-to resource for many looking for help, in an array of areas. Vernard’s name is synonymous with community engagement, support and guidance. More than 19 years ago, Vernard had an epiphany after he read about a historic business closing. In that moment, he decided to bring small businesses together to network and the Minority Networking Exchange (MNE) was born. It provides opportunities for connection, education, and collaboration. Vernard has helped entrepreneurs raise over $10 million for the startup and/or expansion of their brand; and,
WHEREAS, Vernard is currently the Director of the University of Pittsburgh Homewood Community Engagement Center. His superb engagement skills has led to him being a highly successful trustee for the Kiva International crowdfunding platform. He has endorsed the largest number of small business loans in Pennsylvania and has raised the 8th most money of any Kiva Trustee internationally (over $220,000); and,
WHEREAS, Vernard is a “Jack” of many trades. He launched CKV Suites event space, in Homewood, which is a multi-purpose space where he and 2 other co-owners host a variety of business and social networking events. Vernard also hosted the highly popular entrepreneur series, “Motivational Mondays” every week (for the last three years), at the Noblemen Cigar Lounge - where he curated topics each week, with a rotation of guest speakers featuring entrepreneurship. In addition, he featured guest bartenders who raised money and awareness for their business or favorite charities; and,
WHEREAS, Businesses and non-profits have expanded their reach using Vernard’s tips and tricks for social media mastery. By tapping into a network of over 30,000 social media followers, Vernard has helped to create a massive on-line presence. He is also a Social Media Influencer/Consultant for the Neighborhood Allies and many other organizations. He once hosted a “Birthday Fundraiser” on Facebook and raised over $14,500 for the Hope for Tomorrow organization (Youth Entrepreneurship). In addition, he helped create a plan for a local nonprofit that resulted in $1 million in funding.; and,
WHEREAS, Vernard has been recognized multiple times for his accomplishments. He has been featured numerous times in the New Pittsburgh Courier’s Business section and has been recognized as one of their award recipients as a “Fab 40 under 40” and as one of their “50 Men of Excellence.” He was also the 2018 recipient of the Hope for Tomorrow “Spirit of Hope” award. In 2021, the Iota Phi Foundation of Pittsburgh awarded Vernard “Exemplary Service Award for Business”. Vernard was recognized by Style and Steel 2022 Social Media Influencer of the year. Also, in 2022, Key Bank awarded Vernard with the “Community Connector” of the year award. Vernard is part of the 2023 Pittsburgh Multiplying Good “Changes Makers” cohort.
title
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby commend Vernard Alexander for a job well done in the community engagement arena & hereby declares September 6, 2026, to be “Vernard Alexander Day” in the City of Pittsburgh.