Samuel Knox | Publisher & Staff Writer
Every great community movement begins with a conversation. For UniteNews Magazine, that spark ignited in the summer of 1987 when Mark Dixon and Samuel Knox sat down to discuss one big question: How could they help connect Springfield’s Black community? Out of that exchange, a bold idea took shape — to create a publication that informed, inspired, and united people through shared stories and opportunities.The Beginning: A Vision for Unity Mark and Samuel agreed to divide the work — Mark would produce, sell advertising, and write the newsletter, while Samuel handled layout and printing. In February 1988, their vision came to life with the first issue of the Unite newsletter. It opened with an “Editor’s Corner” by Mark Dixon, who wrote: “It is my hope that this newsletter will provide a driving force for unity and cooperation among Springfield’s Black community through the sharing of information.” One of the publication’s first supporters was the local cable station, whose advertising partnership proved instrumental in bringing Black Entertainment Television (BET) to the Springfield, Missouri market. But Unite was more than a newsletter — it became a movement. Alongside publishing, the team organized Black business mixers and minority business workshops in collaboration with the City of Springfield’s Human Resources Department. From the start, Unite had clear goals:• To promote economic development within the Black community.• To share information that helps readers develop business skills and prepare for job opportunities. To inform residents about events and issues affecting the local and national Black community.• And, above all, to foster unity, pride, and cooperation among Springfield’s Black residents. The newsletter was published monthly and distributed free of charge across Springfield — available at most Black churches, as well as local establishments like Crosstown Barbecue, Ike’s Shoe Shop, Mamma Nettie’s Barbecue, and Sam’s Records.Growth and Nonprofit Status By June 1990, Samuel, his wife Tyra, and Mark Dixon formally registered Unite as a Missouri 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. This new status allowed the publication to apply for grants, receive corporate and foundation support, and accept tax-deductible donations from the community it served. In 1996, Samuel Knox became president of the organization and launched the Springfield Multicultural Festival — an annual citywide celebration of cultural heritage that continues to this day. Under his leadership, the festival has grown into a regional tradition, connecting with more than 140,000 households each year through television sponsorship with KY3.A New Era: The Birth of UniteNews Magazine Fast forward to January 2025: the Unite newspaper entered a new chapter, debuting as UniteNews Magazine — a full-color, glossy publication filled with vibrant photography and feature stories. Today, the magazine reaches more than 5,000 readers each month and continues to champion stories of progress, culture, and community pride.
Legacy and the Next Generation In his editorial reflections, Samuel shared a personal milestone that marks a new era in the Unite legacy:“I’m especially proud of my son, who has joined our family’s work with remarkable enthusiasm and creativity.Watching him bring his own vision, skill, and positive energy into what we’ve built together has been deeply rewarding. His innovative ideas remind me that legacy is not just what we hand down — it’s what we nurture and grow together.”Meet Brad Knox: Carrying the Torch Forward A Springfield native, Bradley Knox attended Central High School and earned an A+ scholarship to attend Ozarks Technical Community College. Before joining UniteNews, Brad spent 13 years at Bass Pro Shops, starting as a Jr Web Designer and later advancing to Web Designer. His work included creating promotional banners, landing pages, and digital campaigns for major proprietary brands like Natural Reflections, RedHead, Ascend, World Wide Sportsman, SHE Outdoor and Cabela’s. Among his most memorable projects were the annual “Santa’s Wonderland Christmas Wish List” and a special landing page for Bass Pro founder Johnny Morris, featured during a major fishing event in Springfield. Brad even appeared in a company welcome video for new employees — an experience that captured his love for creative storytelling. During his time at Bass Pro, he met his wife, Amy, who works as a Visual Merchandising Manager. Brad’s professional journey later took him to Arc of the Ozarks, where he contributed to event design, web development, and media production for what is now known as the Autism & Neurodevelopmental Center. In June 2024, Brad joined UniteNews as the Marketing & Design Strategist. His responsibilities include designing magazine layouts, managing the website and social media, and assisting with the Springfield Multicultural Festival.“My goal,” Brad says, “is to build an even bigger audience among the Black and multiracial community here in Springfield. I want people to see the great benefits of subscribing to this magazine — the stories, the opportunities, and the spotlight on Black businesses and professionals.”Beyond the Office Outside of work, Brad enjoys biking with his son, gaming, and watching movies with his family. He sings with the gospel group Urban Praise, performing at community events such as Earth Day, Celebrate Springfield and the Park Day Gospel Music Concert. He also plays an active role in his neighborhood, serving on the HOA board as Communications and Entertainment Chair. Brad has organized seasonal gatherings, including Easter and harvest events, Halloween parties, and an annual summer pool party that draws up to 80 neighbors together for food, fun, and fellowship.Innovation and the future Brad has been instrumental in transforming Unite from a traditional newspaper into the glossy magazine readers enjoy today. He also spearheaded the viral “Follow Us” social media campaign, featuring local community leaders sharing why they read UniteNews. As Samuel reflects, “The blending of generations, perspectives, and purpose breathes new life into our mission and keeps our work vibrant and relevant.”Looking Ahead In 2025 and beyond, UniteNews plans to expand its digital presence with video storytelling to complement print features. The organization is also developing a series of professional and personal development workshops, and seminars— continuing the mission that began nearly four decades ago: to inform, empower, and unite.
