Mosaic Genius Institute Launches in Louisiana as Catalyst for the South’s Innovation Economy and New Institute at Southern University and A&M College 

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Mosaic Genius Institute Launches in Louisiana as Catalyst for the South’s Innovation Economy and New Institute at Southern University and A&M College 

Photo credit April Buffington: Ribbon Cutting (Baton Rouge) — Leaders from Southern University, Head and Heart Philanthropy, and Mosaic Genius cut the ribbon to open the MGI Research Center

(New Orleans, LA / Baton Rouge, LA - October, 21, 2025) -  Head and Heart Philanthropy and Mosaic Genius, a collective of cross-sector philanthropic and business leaders, has announced the launch of the Mosaic Genius Institute (MGI), a new hub for research, innovation, and workforce development designed to power the future of work as part of a broader Southern Strategy. The launch was marked by two milestone events held last week in New Orleans and Baton Rouge with a ribbon cutting at Southern University and A&M College. The event officially marked opening the Mosaic Genius Institute Research Center on the university’s campus.

“The South has always been a place of resilience and ingenuity,” said Christal M. Jackson, Founder of Head and Heart Philanthropy and the Mosaic Genius Institute. “With the Mosaic Genius institute, we’re focusing on shaping the future by ensuring that talent doesn’t leave the region but can thrive and contribute to the regional economy.” 

Jackson, a nationally recognized leader in social impact and philanthropy founded MGI to align capital with purpose and strengthen economic and educational outcomes across the South. She was joined by Cathy Floyd, Chief Operating Officer of Head and Heart Philanthropy and Interim Director of MGI, whose experience in technology and business development has helped build robust networks and innovation ecosystems nationwide.

Photo credit April Buffington: Ribbon Cutting (Baton Rouge) — Leaders from Southern University, Head and Heart Philanthropy, and Mosaic Genius cut the ribbon to open the MGI Research Center

“The launch of the Mosaic Genius Institute marks a historic moment for Southern University and for the entire South,” said Dennis J. Shields, president of the Southern University System. “We are proud to serve as the home of an institute that embodies innovation and opportunity. This partnership reflects our shared belief that the next generation of leaders and innovators will be cultivated right here in this region.”

Operating from the campus of Southern University and A&M College in Baton Rouge, MGI will build a sustainable ecosystem for innovation by improving educational outcomes, bridging the digital divide through AI, reimagining the future of work, and expanding entrepreneurship pathways. The Southern Strategy—spanning Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Arkansas, Tennessee, and Alabama, a region home to nearly 89% of the nation’s HBCUs—will channel investment and expertise into programs that expand entrepreneurship, strengthen education pipelines, and promote sustainable development. The Institute will empower communities to design and lead their own economic futures through access to capital, mentorship, digital literacy, and workforce development. 

Photo credit April Buffington: Christal M. Jackson, Founder of Head and Heart Philanthropy and the Mosaic Genius Institute.

About the Mosaic Genius Institute

The Mosaic Genius Institute is a dynamic hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership development dedicated to transforming the social and economic landscape of the American South. By partnering with schools, HBCUs, and community organizations, MGI provides education, training, and access to capital—empowering communities to build wealth and shape a future with access and opportunity for all.

 About Head and Heart Philanthropy

Head and Heart Philanthropy is committed to connecting and convening the best and the brightest working at the intersection of wealth building and social impact. The organization works daily to reduce barriers to access and opportunities for under-represented leaders.

Since its inception in 2015, Head and Heart has been supporting leaders and entrepreneurs committed to tackling complicated issues impacting communities and reducing barriers to access and opportunities for under-represented leaders.

Media Contact: 

Nina Flowers

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