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History Makers Gala
Thursday, September 24 | 6:00 PM Virtual Event, Streamed from the AAMI
Dear Friends of the Museum:
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elcome to the Afircan American Museum of Iowa’s first virtual History Makers Gala! While tonight’s program looks a little different than in previous years, we are glad that you have decided to join us for this annual event, which supports our mission to preserve, exhibit, and teach the African American heritage of Iowa. Tonight we gather to honor the achievements of four distinguished statewide leaders, and to celebrate the significant strides that our organization has made in the face of a challening year. We could not continue to provide quality exhibits, programs, and educational resources without the support of our amazing patrons, donors, and sponsors. Thank you for being one of those supporters this evening. We hope that you enjoy the program, and we look forward to celebrating with you in person next year.
Board of Directors Nancy Humbles, President Ben Hoover, Vice President Maurice E. Davis, Treasurer Jamarco Clark, Secretary Tonya Scott Anthony Betters, Jr. Peg Fraser Ruth Hairston Dr. Benny Hawkins LaShonda Kennedy Judge Kevin McKeever Scott Olson Dr. Vincent Reid Abena Sankofa Imhotep Dr. Reginald Stewart Reginald Ward Please join us in offering a very special thank you for the support of the AAMI Board of Directors.
Bankers Trust is proud to support the
African American Museum of Iowa
Downtown Office
Blairs Ferry Office
201 1st St. SE
400 Blairs Ferry Rd. NE.
(319) 896-7777
(319) 221-1230
When You’re Covered, We’re All Covered ST OP THE SPR E A D . WEAR A MASK .
Celebrating history in the making UFG Insurance is proud to celebrate the African American Museum’s 2020 History Makers, positively impacting our Iowa communities yesterday, today and tomorrow. Congratulations to the 2020 honorees: Dr. Sharon Collins, Judge Odell McGhee, Fred Mims and Okpara Rice
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Since the last gala...
rom September 2019 to March 2020, the AAMI’s temporary gallery was home to Unwavering, an original exhibition that explored the cultural and historical roots of beauty ideals surrounding African American hair, from the historical effects of slavery and colonialism to modern issues of cultural appropriation and natural hairstyles in the workplace.
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he AAMI was closed from March 16 through July 10, 2020 in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic may have closed our doors, but the Museum team is dedicated to continuing to fulfill our mission in new ways. We have expanded our online presence and resources, including offering virtual programming, adding an online version of our permanent exhibit, and engaging with our audience through social media in new ways. The Museum is currently open on a limited schedule with numerous safety guidelines in place.
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n March our Education department tackled the unprecedented task of moving all programs online. As of September 1, we have already reached over 3,800 people through virtual and in-person programs including over 1,600 full views of online events.
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ur annual Juneteenth celebration was moved online. Held from June 15 to June 20, our virtual event received over 10,000 views.
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rom July 10 to August 8, 2020 the AAMI hosted the traveling exhibit Voices and Votes: Democracy in America. The exhibit is part of Museum on Main Street, a collaboration between the Smithsonian Institution and State Humanities Councils nationwide. It is based on an exhibition by the National Museum of American History and continues to tour Iowa.
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n September 18, the AAMI opened a new original exhibition, Unwavering: 21st Century Activism. This exhibit examines contemporary social movements that affect African Americans
including Black Lives Matter and the MeToo movement. Learn how these movements build upon the fight for black civil rights and equality that started over a century ago and the ways that technology and social media have shaped modern activism. Unwavering is planned to be open through summer 2021.
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hanks to a grant from the Roy J. Carver Charitable Trust, the AAMI purchased and is developing an audio guide touring system that will offer a new way for visitors to interact with our exhibits in-depth, improve accessibility, and give groups more flexibility in crafting an experience that fits their needs. We were also able to have brand new MLK, Jr. Memorial Bridge banners designed and installed. African Americans in hoodies and what that symbolizes in our culture. The exhibit was followed by an adult ally training in August at Metro High School.
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lthough we were closed for four months, over 2,200 people have visited our on-site exhibits since last fall. olunteers contributed over 2,300 hours of service to the Museum in 2019.
ineteen Iowa communities hosted an AAMI program or traveling exhibit in 2019.
n early 2020, the AAMI joined Museums for All and the Adventure Pass program. Museums for All is an initiative of the Institute of Library and Museum Services that provides free or reduced admission to those receiving food assistance (SNAP benefits). The Adventure Pass program provides library card holders the opportunity to check out a pass for free admission to the Museum. The AAMI is currently partnering with the Cedar Rapids and Manchester Public Libraries in this program.
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he Museum is working with the City of Cedar Rapids’s Flood Control System leaders to improve visitor experience as the new flood control system is constructed.
It’s not about another sponsorship. It’s about working together for a brighter tomorrow. Happy homes, successful students, a cleaner planet … that’s what the future’s made of. See how we work with our communities to power what’s next. alliantenergy.com/stories
STAND AGAINST DISCRIMINATION! Everyone has the right to live a life free of discrimination, regardless of their race or skin color! Areas of protection include employment, housing, education, credit, and public accommodation!
2019 Fair Housing Poster Contest 1st Place Winner from Elizabeth Marovets
To file a complaint with the Cedar Rapids Civil Rights Commission, contact us at (319) 286-5036 or civilrights@cedar-rapids.org © 2020 Alliant Energy 21621
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS! Building a community of possible.
At U.S. Bank, we strive to make a positive impact in our community. That’s why we support community events that bring us together for the greater good. We know that anything is possible when we work together. usbank.com/communitypossible U.S. Bank is proud to support African American Museum of Iowa 2020 Virtual History Makers Gala.
Member FDIC. ©2020 U.S. Bank 402701c 8/20
When I look into the future
its so bright
it burns my eyes
Oprah Winfrey
Congratulations to those
Diversity is not an option. We consider it a standard.
When we come together, we can do more. Learn more at toyotadiversityreport.com
recognized as History Makers!
You have made an indelible impact in your communities through your actions and leadership. The future is brighter because of you!
The University of Iowa COLLEGE OF EDUCATION is proud to support the African American Museum of Iowa and celebrates the achievements of these History Makers. To learn more about Iowa’s top-ranked College of Education, visit: education.uiowa.edu
Now Open Through Summer 2021
Event Program 6:00 PM
Welcome & 2020 Year in Review
LaNisha Cassell Executive Director African American Museum of Iowa
6:10 PM
MC Introduction & Remarks
Keesha Burke-Henderson Director of Diversity and International Student Services Mt. Mercy University
Recognition of Past Honorees Primiere Sponsor Greeting Temporary Exhibit Preview
6:20 PM
Spoken Word Performance
Caleb “The Negro Artist” Rainey
6:35 PM History Maker Award Presentation Dr. Sharon A. Collins Judge Odell McGhee Fred Mims Okpara Rice
7:00 PM
Musical Performance
Alicia Monee
7:30 PM
Closing Remarks
Mrs. Nancy Humbles, AAMI Board President
A History Maker is defined as an African American who fits at least three of the four categories below:
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Past History Makers
railblazer: An African American who initiated a first or showed innovation Abel, Dr.field E. Dale-2018 Long, Freda 2010 a process in their and was instrumental in developing or –enhancing Ampey, Lorinda “Lori” – 2019 Mahone, Dr. Paula – 2009 that positively impacted the lives of Iowans. Andrews, Betty – 2014 Mosley, Leon – 2017 Belcher, – 2011American Pierson, Jerome – 2017 mark on hangeRomonda Agent: AnD.African who has Dr. made an indelible Bell, Sandra K. – 2012 Porter, Lou – 2009 their community and who has changed the lives of people in their area Berry, Deborah – 2017 Randall, James – 2014 forever. Berry, Dr. Venise-2018 Saffold, Bridget – 2019 Boykin, 2016 American who Simms, Rudolpha“Rudy” 2018 egacy George Maker: An– African has created legacy–or accomCaldwell-Johnson, – 2010 Scott,orMelvina – 2016 plished something Teree that lives beyond them, contributed to a legacy by Chapman, Dr. Mary – 2012 Stinson, Lyn – 2008 passionately continuing an effort or participating in a movement. Cheeks, Kimberly – 2016 Todd, Dale – 2017 Christian, Marie – 2019 Anna Maerole – 2007 ole Model: An African American who Weems, is an outstanding model and Coleman, – 2011 and accomplishments White, Dr. Ruth – 2008 regardless someone Marian whose character all people, Henry – 2015 can admire and Williams, Catherine Gayle – 2007 ofDavison, race, age, or gender, emulate. Eichacker, Lois H. – 2014 Wynn, LaMetta K. – 2007 Estes, Elaine – 2013 LaSheila – 2013 Past HistoryYates, Makers Estes, Dr. Simon – 2019* 2010 2018 Felton, Dr. Geraldene – 2014 2012 *Lifetime Achievement Award Freda Long Betty Andrews Dr.Franklin, E Dale Abel Dr. Angela – 2013 Teree Caldwell-Johnson Lois Eichacker Dr. Venise Berry Furgerson, Betty Jean – 2008 Bernice Jones Dr. Percy Harris Shelby Humble, Jr. Glanton, – 2007 Randall Rudolph SimmsWillie StevensonJames Harper, Henri – 2013 2009 Dr. Ida Johnson 2017 Harris, Dr. Percy – 2014 2013 Lou Porter Elaine Estes Deborah L. Berry Hawthorne, Francis – 2008 Dr. Paula Mahone Dr. Angela Franklin Leon Mosley Hood, Jr., William B. – 2015 Henri Harper Dr. Jerome Pierson Humbles, 2008 Dale Todd Nancy – 2011 LaSheila Yates Humbles Jr., Shelby-2018 Thomas Moore Lyn Stinson Dr. Ruth White 2016 Johnson, Dr. Ida – 2009(Lifetime Achievement) Francis Hawthorne George Boykin Johnson, Rufus & Betty – 2015 Betty Furgerson 2012 Kim Cheeks Jones, Bernice – 2010 Dr. Mary Chapman Melvina Scott Kington, Dr. Raynard – 2019 2007 Sandra K. Bell Lee, Flora – 2015 Willie Stevenson Glanton 2015 Dr. Geraldine Felton
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Henry Davison William B. Hood, Jr. Flora Lee Rufus & Betty Johnson
2011 Romonda D. Belcher Marian Coleman Nancy Humbles
Anna Mae Weems Catherine Gayle Williams LaMetta K. Wynn
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r. Sharon Collins received her medical degree from Michigan State University College of Human Medicine and has been practicing for nearly forty years. She is a board-certified pediatrician who has emphasized to her patients the importance of a nutritious diet and lifestyle habits that would optimize their health. Between 2012 and the present, Dr. Collins lectured on ways to include validated natural therapies to enhance treatments of illness and chronic disease, and began fellowship training with the Metabolic Medical Institute of Integrative Medicine (while maintaining her busy pediatric practice). In 2014, she established Collins Wellness Center LLC, and ended her association with Pediatric Center. Dr. Sharon Collins encourages her patients toward Proactivity, Purpose, and Discipline, Restraint and Intention.
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udge Odell McGhee was born in Liberty, Mississippi. After finishing junior high and high school in the Chicago Public School System, he attended the University Of Illinois and transferred to Cornell College, Mount, Vernon, Iowa, where he received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Secondary Education and Math. After graduating from Cornell College in 1974 he attended the Drake University School of Law and received a Juris Doctorate Degree in 1977. Judge McGhee is licensed to practice law in the local, state and federal courts. He was elected to the board of the National Bar Association and was president of the Iowa National Bar Association for over ten years. He was elected regional chair of the National Prosecutor Association and chaired several committees. He has served several terms on the Executive Board of the Iowa State Bar Association and on several special committees (Grievance, Bench Bar, Jury Instructions, Minority issues, and Criminal Law) of the Iowa State Bar Association and on the Executive Board of the Polk County Bar Association. Judge McGhee was elected Vice President and President of the Iowa Judges’ Association in 2011 and served on the Executive Board for five years. He was the first African American to be elected to the Executive Board and the first to be elected president.
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redr.Mims Raynard wasS.a Kington staff member has served of theasIowa PresiAthletics dent ofDepartment Grinnell College for 38since years, 2010. having Prior served to Grinnell, as assistant he heldbaseball multiplecoach, positions athletic at the counselor, National Institutes AssistantofAthletics Health including Director,Principal and from 1989 Deputy until Director his retirement and Acting as Associate Director. Athletics Prior to Director. NIH, he was His aresponsibilities division director included at the NCAA, CentersBig Ten for Disease Conference Control and and institutional Prevention rules andcompliance a Seand nior student Scientistathlete at RAND. support He isprograms. a member Heofalso the supervised National Academy the IowaofWrestling Medicine,and where Baseball he serves programs on the Governing and the Council. department’s He also mental serves health on the program. Board of Directors Mims wasofasked the American to serve as Council Interimon Director Education. of theHe University’s attended the Center University of Diversity of Michigan, and Enrichment where hefor received the 2014his 15 academic B.S. with year. distinction Mimsand has his been M.D. an active He received community his M.B.A. member, withhaving distinction served and as histhe Ph.D. firstwith minority a concentration member ofinthe Health IowaPolicy City Chamber and Economics of Commerce from Board the of Wharton Directors; School Midof East theCouncil University on Chemical of Pennsylvania. Abuse His (MECCA) research Board has of Directors focused(now on social Prelude); determinants Hawkeye of Area health Boysand Scout more Council; recently Iowa on City diversity Human in Rights the Committee; scientific workforce. and Johnson County Neighborhood Center Board of Directors. Mims currently sits on the Board of Directors for GreenState Credit Union, (the former University of Iowa Community Credit Union) and chairs their Audit Committee; he is currently a Judicial appointee to Iowa’s Sixth Judicial District Correctional Services Board of Directors.
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ridget Saffold, is employed as a Registered kpara Rice joined Tanager Place of Cedar Nurse in an internal medicine clinic that Rapids, Iowa, as executive director in July treats kidney and diabetic patients. She serves as 2013, and assumed the role of Chief Executive the coordinator of the Cedar Valley and Cedar Officer July 2015. Okpara is the first African Rapids Focus on Diabetes, a grassroots diabetes American to hold an executive office at Tanager initiative endorsed by the State of Iowa’s HealthPlace in its more than 140 year history. He iest State Initiative. It partners with doctors brings leadership experience to Tanager from and healthcare organizations to share research, his work at the Jewish Child Care Association in treatment options and free screenings with diaPleasantville, New York, the Mercy Home for betic patients, their families, and the community. Boys and Girls in Chicago, the Youth Campus in Additionally, Bridget serves as the diabetes advisPark Ridge, Ill and Starr Columbus in Columbus, er for a 6.5 million-member, faith-based organizaOhio. He is active in the field and his community and currently serves tion offering education and coordination support for their state, regional, on a wide number of boards and advisory committees locally, regionally, and national conferences. In June, Bridget made history when she hosted nationally and internationally. Most recently he was appointed to Governor a party for Presidential Candidate Senator Elizabeth Warren. That event Kim Reynolds’ Children’s System State Board, formed to innovatively create marked the first time in history that a high-profile presidential candidate solutions for youth in Iowa. Okpara also led the more than 60-year old campaigned at someone’s home on the east side of Waterloo. During this Association of Children’s Residential Centers as its first African American Board President.
Bronze Sponsors
Tom and Lillie Moore
Tables
Cedar Rapids Community School District CID Airport Iowa Conservation & Preservation Commission Marion Civil Rights Commission Murdoch Funeral Homes Phelan’s Interiors Phil & Jo Jones Rudy & Veronica Simms