Brevard Links NSBE Jr. Chapter Charter
Edna L. Lawson
The chartering of a new National Society of Black Engineers, NSBE, Jr. chapter through a dynamic partnership between The Brevard County (FL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated and the Boys & Girls Club of Central Florida, Cocoa Branch represents a powerful investment in the future of Brevard’s youth. Through the vision of Ms. Brenda Veale, Services To Youth Chair and Ms. Naomie Baptiste, NSBE Jr. advisor, this milestone reflects a shared belief that early exposure, strong mentorship, and community collaboration are essential to preparing young people for success in an increasingly technology-driven world. The launch of this chapter, Brevard Links NSBE Jr. Chapter “Igniting STEM on The Space Coast” stands as a celebration of opportunity, access, and collective purpose with Chapter President Mrs. Ena Leiba leading the charge. The celebration took place on February 13, 2026 at the Boys and Girls Club of Cocoa and also celebrated the anniversary of the official chartering on April 10, 2025; marking the first Links, Incorporated NSBE Jr. Chapter on the Space Coast.
The chartering of this chapter was further elevated by the recognition and support of Cocoa Mayor Michael Blake, whose presence underscored the city’s commitment to education and youth advancement. His acknowledgment of the partnership highlighted the importance of investing in programs that prepare the next generation to lead, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to the community. Such support sends a clear message that the success of Cocoa’s young people is a shared civic priority.
At the heart of this initiative is the Brevard County (FL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated with a nationally respected program designed to inspire academic excellence and sustained interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Through hands-on learning, leadership development, and exposure to real-world STEM pathways, students will gain the tools and confidence needed to envision themselves as future engineers, innovators, and problem-solvers. The chapter creates a structured pipeline that encourages curiosity while reinforcing discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. Most recently, the chapter accompanied students to the NSBE Fall Regional Conference (FRC) where students completed MATHCOUNTS and Try-Math-A-Lon (TMAL) events with focus on advancing STEM through competitive math and engineering design. Additionally, the students participated in the Links Southern Area initiative, “Quilting by The Numbers: A STEM Ready Approach,” in which they were challenged to create a quilt from concept to completion using mathematical equations and analytical skills. This exemplary project resulted in the Brevard County Links being recognized as Chapter of Excellence during the Southern Area Conference.
The involvement of The Links, Incorporated Memoriam of Understanding (MOU) with the National Society of Black Engineers brings a rich legacy of service, advocacy, and educational empowerment to the program. As an organization deeply rooted in strengthening communities and advancing youth achievement, the Brevard County (FL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated provides strategic leadership, mentorship, and resources that elevate the impact of the chapter. Their partnership ensures that students are supported not only academically, but fostering well-rounded growth and a strong sense of responsibility to the Brevard community.
Equally vital is the role of the Boys & Girls Club of Cocoa, which Mr. Jeremy Jones, Service Director, offers a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment where young people can thrive. Long trusted as a cornerstone of youth development in the area, the BGCC of Cocoa serves as an ideal home for the Brevard Links, Incorporated NSBE Jr. chapter—one where learning is encouraged, potential is nurtured, and aspirations are taken seriously. Together, these organizations create a space where students feel seen, valued, and empowered to reach beyond perceived limits.
The launch of the Brevard Links NSBE Jr. chapter is more than the start of a program—it is the beginning of a journey filled with promise. It represents what is possible when visionary organizations, community leaders, and dedicated mentors come together with a unified mission. As these students take their first steps into a world of STEM exploration and leadership, the Cocoa community celebrates not just chartering, but the future it helps to build with the new NSBE Jr. chapter. For more information, please email the Brevard County (FL) Chapter of the Links, Incorporated at brevardcountylinks@gmail.com
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