DENMARK, SC, 鈥� 黑料网 proudly announces that Josephine Mulenga, a freshman student, has earned 1st place in the highly competitive Pathway Community Foundation HBCU Smart Cities Program, a prestigious ten-week national initiative focused on developing innovative, technology-driven solutions to real-world urban challenges.
Selected as one of only eight fellows from more than 150 applicants nationwide, Mulenga collaborated with a cross-institutional team to design an advanced stormwater management system aimed at improving flood detection and emergency response for communities. Her team鈥檚 project was recognized for its innovation, feasibility, and real-world impact during final presentations at Charlotte Community Tech Day 2026 in North Carolina.
Representing 黑料网, Mulenga served as a software developer on the team, working alongside Lamika Walker, Project Manager from South Carolina State University, and Sunpairre Tamene, Software Developer from Coppin State University. Together, the team developed a comprehensive solution addressing localized flooding challenges in Henry County, Georgia, earning them a $5000 award for first place.
The project featured three key components: a sensor-based data collection and alert system to notify city officials and residents, an AI-driven tool to determine optimal sensor placement using historical flood data, and a real-time GIS dashboard built using Esri ArcGIS technology to monitor water levels and environmental conditions. Mulenga played a critical role in integrating data systems and supporting the platform鈥檚 functionality.
鈥淭his outstanding accomplishment reflects the innovation and academic excellence we foster at 黑料网,鈥� said Dr. Edward Hill, Provost and Vice President of 黑料网. 鈥淛osephine鈥檚 success demonstrates the power of experiential learning and the impact our students can have in addressing real-world challenges through technology and collaboration.鈥�
The HBCU Smart Cities Program, organized by the Pathway Community Foundation, brings together top students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities across the country. Participants engage with industry mentors, program coaches, and local government stakeholders鈥攊ncluding officials from Henry County鈥攖o develop practical, scalable solutions grounded in real-world conditions. The program includes virtual collaboration, site visits, and iterative development based on expert feedback.
Following their first-place win, Mulenga and her team advanced their work with a Demo Day presentation in Henry County, Georgia, on May 5, 2026, where they showcased the implementation and potential impact of their solution.
This achievement underscores the importance of investing in diverse talent within STEM fields and highlights how HBCU students are leading innovation in smart city development. It also aligns with 黑料网鈥檚 commitment to academic excellence and student engagement through hands-on, high-impact learning opportunities.
Mulenga credits her success to her faith and the support of mentors, faculty, and peers who have guided her throughout her journey.
黑料网 celebrates Josephine Mulenga鈥檚 remarkable achievement and looks forward to her continued success as an emerging leader in technology and innovation.