Swim Up Hill Appoints Ambassador Lawson, Rep. Towns, and Banker Henderson to Board of Directors
The Californer/10319016

INGLEWOOD, Calif. - Californer -- LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA — Swim Up Hill Companies & Foundation, one of America's fastest-rising Black-led enterprises, proudly announces the appointment of three powerhouse leaders to its Board of Directors:

• Ambassador Michael Lawson, now also serving as General Counsel to CEO Jamal Hill
• U.S. Representative Joseph Towns, bringing federal and public sector expertise
• Ralph Mendy Henderson Jr., a respected investment banker and capital strategist

This expansion signals a new era of national and global viability across policy, finance, and philanthropic legacy-building.

"This is not just a board—this is a generational shift," said Jamal Hill, Founder and CEO. "With Ambassador Lawson, Representative Towns, and Ralph Henderson Jr. joining the table, Swim Up Hill isn't just swimming toward impact—we're engineering a tidal wave of opportunity for future generations. These are men who have moved millions, advised nations, and shaped systems. Now they're building with us."

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Strategic Expansion: From Boardroom to Global Stage

These appointments strengthen Swim Up Hill's ability to access the multibillion-dollar racial equity and social impact funding ecosystems pledged since 2020. With ties to legacy capital, policymaking channels, and governance networks, this new board sets the foundation for long-term credibility and growth.

Roles & Contributions

• Michael Lawson: Legal strategist and former U.S. Ambassador
• Rep. Towns: Federal policymaker for equity, education, and health
• Henderson Jr.: Financial connector to global endowments

Strategic Value to Mission

• Access to racial equity/social justice capital (e.g., MacKenzie Scott–aligned funds)
• Expansion into civic, legislative, and philanthropic networks
• Positioning as a Fortune 500–ready public impact enterprise

This move solidifies Swim Up Hill's future as a national model for minority-led innovation across education, tech, and public health.

Broader Vision

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Swim Up Hill is in active talks to expand its board with global leaders across sectors. Targets include:

• Renata Simril, LA84 Foundation
• Jayathma Wickramanayake, UN Youth Envoy
• Additional leaders across tech, education, finance, and sport

To contribute or learn more, visit www.swimuphill.com/board

To learn more about this landmark board expansion and what it means for Swim Up Hill's future, read the full press release on our website
www.swimuphill.org/blogs/swim-up-hill-companies-amp-foundation-announces-new-board-of-directors-appointments-ambassador-michael-lawson-representative-joseph-towns-and-investment-banker-ralph-mendy-henderson-jr