February 17, 2026
Lieutenant Governor, Sara Rodriguez visited the Urban League’s Black Business Hub as part of her statewide tour to learn more about Black business across the state.
She was hosted by Urban League of Greater Madison CEO and President, Dr. Ruben Anthony and Vice-President, Edward Lee. Both leaders guided Lieutenant Governor Rodriguez throughout the building where she met Hub business owners and partners. Lieutenant Governor Rodriguez was fascinated with the story of the Hub and interested in hearing directly from its budding entrepreneurs. She spoke with Charles Dean of Wisconsin Martial Arts & Fitness Center, Tanisha Chanell Harbert of Chanell Ardor Schools of Beauty and Culture, and Camille Carter of the Madison Black Chamber of Commerce. Hub business owners were able to share with Lieutenant Governor Rodriguez a glimpse into their journey to the Hub. She was shocked but inspired to learn that Hub tenants like Tanisha Harbert were making history with their businesses. Tanisha Harbert has curated her space in the Hub to serve as Madison’s first black-owned cosmetology school. This historic first represents the magic of the Hub that Lieutenant Governor Rodriguez was experiencing in real time. From the eateries to the over 50 businesses concentrated on the fourth floor, Lieutenant Governor Rodriguez was able to witness all the amazing things happening at the Hub. As her tour closed, she was eager to hear from Urban League leaders about how she could help support the Hub. Curious as to how she could use her platform and reach to uplift the Hub, leaders confirmed that fundraising and support for Black Businesses everywhere will always push forward the mission and values of not only the Hub, but similar spaces being created all over our great state. Lieutenant Governor Rodriguez joins the growing list of community leaders to visit the Urban League of Greater Madison’s Black Business Hub.
