Thank You to All of Our Sponsors
44th Annual Scholarship & Awards Gala Program
Saturday, November 2nd, 2024
7:00 PM
Mistress of Ceremonies
Danita Harris News Anchor, WKYC Studios
Invocation
Reverend Larry Macon Jr. Co-Pastor, Mt. Zion Church of Oakwood Village
Negro National Anthem
President’s Remarks
Dr. Michele Scott Taylor, Ed.D., PgMP, GCDF President, BPACF Board of Trustees President, College Now Greater Cleveland
Diamond Sponsor Remarks
Gregory Walker Senior Vice President, State & District Partnerships, College Board
DINNER IS SERVED
Reflection on the Scholar Journey
Tanaziona Lucious, BPACF Scholar Senior, Cleveland State University
Sonyea Moore, BPACF Scholar Senior, Kent State University
Douglas Burnett III, BPACF Scholar Alumni Graduate Student, The Ohio State University
Executive Director’s Remarks
Laurie Murphy, MBA, MPH, MS Executive Director, BPACF
Gala Co-Chair Remarks
Allen M. Siverls, MBA, CFSP, CPC, CCFP, DTM President & CEO, The Triumph Group LLC
HONOREE VIDEO TRIBUTE
Award Presentation
BPACF Executive Committee
Acceptance Remarks
W. Byron Calhoun 2024 Black Professional of the Year Owner & President, Calhoun Funeral Homes/Northeast Ohio Crematory/Nela Florist
Closing Remarks
Tyson Mitchell, JD, LLM Vice President, BPACF Director of the Mayor’s Office of Equal Opportunity City of Cleveland
Benediction
Reverend Larry Macon Jr. Co-Pastor, Mt. Zion Church of Oakwood Village
Letter from BPACF Leadership
Welcome to the Black Professionals Association Charitable Foundation's (BPACF) 44th Annual Scholarship and Awards Gala.
It is with profound pride and gratitude that we gather tonight to celebrate not only the achievements of our scholars but also our collective commitment to building a brighter future and celebrating the limitless potential that lies within each of us.
Tonight, we salute W. Byron Calhoun, President of Calhoun Funeral Homes, as our 2024 Black Professional of the Year. His life and work serve as a beacon of leadership, resilience, and dedication—values that align deeply with our mission to empower, uplift, and transform lives.
To our scholarship recipients, congratulations! Your academic achievements, resilience, and vision for the future inspire us all. You are the embodiment of our mission: to create pathways for success and leadership through scholarship, career development, and mentorship. Your accomplishments are not just your own; they represent the future of our community—a future we are committed to investing in, year after year.
At BPACF, we believe in the power of education, leadership, and economic mobility to transform lives. Our vision is to be the catalyst that prepares and develops Black professionals at every stage of their career journey. From pre-professional to retired professional, BPACF serves as a hub for continuous growth, advocacy, and community building. Through your unwavering support, we have surpassed 1,000 scholarships awarded since 1985, a testament to the impact we are making together.
Our gala is more than a celebration; it is an investment in our shared vision for the future. The scholarships, internships, and programs you support help us expand opportunities for students and professionals, creating lasting change in our communities. With each contribution, we take another step toward fulfilling our mission to foster education, leadership, and economic equity.
On behalf of the BPACF Board of Trustees, we thank you for your dedication, generosity, and belief in our cause. Together, we are shaping a brighter tomorrow for generations to come. Let tonight be a reminder that when we aim high, the possibilities are endless.
Warmest regards,
Dr. Michele Scott Taylor, Ed.D. Board President
Laurie A. Murphy, MBA, MPH, MS Executive Director
BPACF Board of Trustees
Officers
Michele Scott Taylor, Ed.D., PgMP, GCDF - President College Now Greater Cleveland
Tyson Mitchell, Esq. - Vice President City of Cleveland
Keesha Salters - Secretary Unique Perspectives, LLC
Paul Farrington - Treasurer Pentair
Marcella J. Brown, Lutheran Metropolitan Ministry
LaRaun T. Clayton, Volunteers of America-Ohio & Indiana
Toi Comer, City Year Cleveland
Vaneshia Houston, Greater Cleveland RTA
Edwin Hubbard, Jr., Cleveland NAACP
Shawn J. Kindle, PNC Financial Services Group
Paris Lampkins, PRADCO
Jazmin Long, Birthing Beautiful Communities
Veranda Rodgers, Pregnant With Possibilities Resource Center
Anthony Scott, Esq., City of Cleveland
Meredith M. Turner, Cuyahoga County Council
Lauren R. Welch, Say Yes Cleveland
Ex-Officio Members
Meltrice D. Sharp, CPA, CLE Consulting Firm, Immediate Past President
Arthur Baker, Co-Founder & Trustee Emeritus
Nancella Harris, Co-Founder & Trustee Emeritus
Laurie Murphy, Executive Director
W. Byron Calhoun
W. Byron Calhoun is a distinguished figure in the field of funeral services, serving as the Owner and of Calhoun Funeral Homes, which annually extends its compassionate care to over one thousand families. Byron's journey in the funeral service industry is a testament to his commitment to excellence, innova and community involvement.
In 2006, Byron opened the first Calhoun Funeral Home on Lakeshore Blvd, marking the beginning of an exceptional legacy in funeral service. Recognizing the need for expansion to better serve the community expanded his operations in 2012 by inaugurating the Bedford Heights location. The commitment to growth continued in 2016 when Byron acquired Stewart & Calhoun Funeral Home, a meaningful step that connected his professional journey with his father, the late William Calhoun. In 2018, Northeast Ohio Crematory established, offering an essential service to families in their time of need. In 2022, Byron further e portfolio with the acquisition of Nela Florist, complementing the range of services offered by the Calh Funeral Homes family.
With more than three decades of experience, Byron Calhoun is a licensed funeral director, embalmer, crematory operator, and life insurance agent. His wealth of knowledge and expertise has been pivotal in providing the highest level of service to families during their most challenging moments.
Byron's educational journey has been marked by dedication and academic achievement. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Morehouse College—a prestigious institution known for shaping leaders and fostering a commitment to social responsibility, followed by an associate degree from the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science. Further enhancing his qualifications, Byron completed his master’s degree at Baldwin Wallace College School of Business, equipping him with invaluable strategic insights into the funeral service industry.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Byron has actively contributed to the funeral service community. He served as President of Selected Independent Funeral Homes, an esteemed association founded in 1917 to promote cooperation and the future of funeral service. Membership in this organization is extended by invitation only, a testament to Byron's character, professional ability, and outstanding reputation.
Byron's dedication to community involvement shines t extensive volunteer service on charitable boards, i Akron Urban League, Child Guidance & Family Solution Kappa Foundation. He is a proud member of The House
Letter from Host Committee Leaders
Dear Esteemed Guests,
Welcome to the 44th Annual Scholarship and Awards Gala, hosted by the Black Professional Association Charitable Foundation (BPACF). On behalf of the 2024 Gala Host Committee, we extend our warmest greetings as we gather to celebrate BPACF Scholars and honor W. Byron Calhoun, Owner and President of Calhoun Funeral Homes, Northeast Ohio Crematory, and Nela Florist, as the 2024 Black Professional of the Year.
Under the theme "Low Aim Is Sin," inspired by the words of Benjamin E. Mays, we celebrate Byron for his remarkable achievements and commitment to service and leadership. His journey exemplifies the spirit of aiming high and making a lasting impact.
BPACF’s legacy of providing scholarships and empowering over 1,000 scholars since 1985 reflects our dedication to education, leadership, and economic mobility. Tonight, we honor both the exceptional students whose futures are bright, and the path forged by leaders like Mr. Calhoun, whose influence inspires us all.
We are incredibly grateful to the members of our host committee, sponsors, and donors. Your unwavering support empowers us to offer opportunities that uplift our scholars and community. As we celebrate W. Byron Calhoun and our scholars, let us be reminded of the power of unity, purpose, and aiming high. Together, we continue building success and creating opportunities for future generations.
Thank you for your presence and steadfast support of BPACF’s mission to create a lasting impact through education and opportunity.
With warmest regards, Chairs
Justin Horton, Stratos Wealth Partners
Randell McShepard, RPM International Inc.
LaRese Purnell, CLE Consulting Firm
Allen Siverls, The Triumph Group LLC
Honorary Chairs
Arthur Baker Jr., AT&T (Retired)
Erskine Cade, Strategic Health Care
Alex Johnson, Ph.D., Cuyahoga Community College (President Emeritus)
44th Annual Scholarship and Awards Gala Host Committee
Black Professional Association Charitable Foundation
Chairs
2024 Gala Host Committee
Justin Horton, Stratos Wealth Partners
Randell McShepard, RPM International Inc.
LaRese Purnell, CLE Consulting Firm
Allen Siverls, The Triumph Group LLC
Honorary Chairs
Arthur Baker Jr, AT&T, Retired
Erskine Cade, Strategic Health Care
Alex Johnson, Cuyahoga Community College- Emeritus
Members
Robin Baum, Zinner & Co
Teresa Metcalf Beasley, Esq., McDonald Hopkins LLC
Traci Buckner, Akron Children’s Museum
Dana Capers, Fifth Third Bank
Alison Graves-Calhoun, Medtronic
Ron Gross, Ferris Forum
Ariane Kirkpatrick, The AKA Team
Andrea Lyons, Neighborhood Family Practice
Darrell McNair, MVP Plastics Inc.
Robyn Minter-Smyers, Esq., Thompson Hine LLP
Marsha Mockabee, Urban League of Greater Cleveland
Tina Rice, T Rice Communications
Renee Tramble Richard, Esq., Cuyahoga Community College
Veronica Sims, Ohio State Representative District 33
Hilton Smith, Turner Construction-Retired
Shanelle Smith Whigham, KeyBank
Meredith Turner, Cuyahoga County Councilwoman
Gregory Walker, College Board
Natoya Walker Minor, Greater Cleveland RTA
Vanessa Whiting, A.E.S. Management Corp. dba Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen
Sonali Wilson, Cleveland State University
Lorna Wisham, FirstEnergy Foundation
Bronze Sponsors
AMETEK
Brannan Manna & Diamond LLC
College Board
College Now Greater Cleveland
E.F. Boyd & Son Funeral Home and Cremation, Inc.
Equitable Advisors
Gateway Outdoor Advertising
Gilbane Building Company
Huntington Bank
The McNair Family Foundation
Tables
Akron Urban League
Dr. Modlin Health & Wellness Group
Forever Mom Legacy
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. ~Akron Alumni Chapter
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. ~Cleveland Alumni Chapter
The Male Minority Leadership Group of Orange High School
Morehouse Alumni Association Greater Cleveland
Neighborhood Family Practice
Pregnant with Possibilities Resource Center
Presidents’ Council
Trustee Meredith Turner
Trustee Tyson Mitchell
United Black Fund of Greater Cleveland Urban League of Greater Cleveland
Half-Tables
American Limousine Company
Batesville Casket Company
Ferris Forum
TeamNEO
Westfield Bank
Donors & Proclamations
Donors
American Express
Elizabeth Park Capital Management Company
ERIEBANK
Ernestine and Malcolm Brown Visual Arts Legacy Fund
Evergreen Memorial Park Association
MKJ Marketing
Select Independent Funeral Homes
Ohio Funeral Directors Association
WKYC Studios
Patrons
Melissa Burrows
S. Theresa Carter
Tracy Carter
Rev Courtney Clayton Jenkins
Nancella Harris
Donna Johnson Harvey
Judy & Gregory Hill
Carmen and Courtney Hollowell
Shamarah Hutchins
Garimah Jones
India Lee Adrienne Lucas
Robyn Minter-Smyers
Laurie Murphy
Heather Rice
Sims Allen Siverls
Nicole Ward
Myesha Watkins
Tobias Williams
In Memoria
Edward Chen: In honor of Myron Williams
Proclamations
United States Representative Shontel Brown
United States Representative Emilia Sykes
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine
Cuyahoga County Council
City of Cleveland – Mayor Justin M. Bibb
City of Akron – Mayor Shammas Malik
Cleveland City Council - President Blaine A. Griffin
Message From Our Co-Founders
Dear Friends and Supporters,
In 1985, we embarked on a journey to empower, educate, and elevate the lives of young individuals in our community. Today, as co-founders of the Black Professionals Association Charitable Foundation (BPACF), we stand proud of the remarkable legacy we’ve built together since 1977, when the Black Professionals Association was conceived in a basement meeting room at Karamu House.
This year, we celebrate a milestone—surpassing 1,000 scholarships awarded, totaling almost $3.8 million. These scholarships, combined with our programming, continue to create pathways to brighter futures and open doors of possibility for the next generation of leaders.
We want to express our deepest gratitude to all of you—our supporters, donors, volunteers, and friends—who have made this journey possible. Your unwavering dedication drives our mission, and together, we have transformed lives and nurtured a community built on progress.
Our gala is a testament to the enduring impact of education, mentorship, and community support. The funds raised tonight represent investments in the future, supporting both scholarships and vital programming. This evening, we also honor W. Byron Calhoun, our 2024 Black Professional of the Year. A proud graduate of Morehouse College, W. Byron is a beacon of excellence, inspired by the words of Benjamin E. Mays: “The tragedy in life doesn’t lie in not reaching your goal. The tragedy lies in having no goal to reach.” His chosen theme, “Low Aim Is Sin,” challenges us all to strive for greatness.
We invite you to join us in commemorating this exceptional evening. Your presence signifies your role in our journey, and we look forward to a night of celebration and empowerment.
Warmest regards,
Nancella Wilson Harris
Arthur Baker Jr.
Co-Founders
Black Professionals Association
Charitable Foundation
Our Heritage & Origin
Our Heritage
Charitable Foundation (BPACF) is to create providing scholarship, leadership, and career epares and develops emerging professionals, celebrates
Created in 1977, the Black Professionals Association (BPA) was an organization dedicated to networking, professional growth, and development in Greater Cleveland’s African American community. To celebrate the accomplishments of successful Black Professionals, BPA held the first Black Professional of the Year Gala in 1981. The goal of that first gala was to honor the accomplishments of Bertram Gardner, a banker, who served as a mentor for many, as well as for his contributions made to our community. The celebration was greatly received and thus the tradition of the annual Black Professional of the Year was established.
The Creation of the Foundation
The legacy of raising awareness and supporting the development of Black leaders in our community is the primary purpose of the Black Professionals Association Charitable Foundation (BPACF). BPACF, an outgrowth of BPA, was established in October of 1985 after the gala revenues reached a significant return on investment. The leadership of BPA then determined the need to establish a charitable foundation, to raise and distribute charitable funds and assure that African Americans from Northeast Ohio with academic and leadership potential have an opportunity to advance to higher education and join the ranks of our region’s outstanding leaders and professionals. The founders of BPACF were Tanya Allmond, Arthur Baker, Jr., and Nancella Wilson Harris. Both BPA and BPACF were managed concurrently until 2006 when BPA was sunset. Since 2007 all activities have operated under BPACF.
Today, we remain committed to our mission of scholarship, leadership, and career development. We continue the legacy of honoring the achievements of professionals who encourage others to strive for excellence, creating connections in our community and investing in tomorrow’s leaders.
BPACF Programs & Services
BPACF creates connections in our community, investing in today’s and tomorrow’s leaders. Our focus areas:
I. Scholarship & Youth Programming
II. Networking & Professional Development, and III. Professional Awards & Recognition
I. Scholarship & Youth Programming
BPACF has a suite of workforce and professional development offerings available to emerging youth, community partners, local companies, and businesses. The continuum encourages and supports efforts to identify and develop talent and diversify our region’s workforce.
BPACF Scholars Program
We provide gap scholarships and professional development coaching for college students who are graduates of Northeast Ohio high schools. Annually we support a cohort of 35-40 scholars.
“College to Career” Series
The series allows students to meet one another and top executives from Northeast Ohio and learn more about their career paths.
Career Connect Internship Program
The purpose of the program is to provide early exposure in a student’s major; provide resume-building project opportunities, and complete projects of importance to the hosting organization.
II. Networking & Professional Development
The Black Professional Magazine: A Guide to Building Village!™ This quarterly electronic publication provides content relevant to all sectors of the BPACF target audience in Northeast Ohio, and this region. It includes relevant storytelling, regular columns, profiles of students/BPACF Student Alumni, successful entrepreneurs, executives, and talented civic leaders.
BPACF “Professional Night Out” Networking Series: BPACF hosts a semi-annual networking mixer to encourage and foster an environment for professional network-building to take place.
Engage!: A series of relevant activities designed to increase the civic engagement of young professionals, and facilitate peer and near-peer professional networking.
III. Professional Awards & Recognition
It is vitally important that BPACF recognizes and celebrates the excellence of Black professionals in Northeast Ohio. Consistently providing models of excellence from all underrepresented sectors of the business community to young scholars and young professionals is a necessary component of our mission and vision.
BPACF Scholars
Welcome to the academic year 2024-2025 cohort of BPACF Scholars! We are thrilled to support 41 exceptional students hailing from Northeast Ohio. These bright minds have embarked on their educational journeys at 27 college and university campuses across the county.
As BPACF Scholars, they represent the promise of our region's future, and we look forward to witnessing their academic achievements and contributions to their communities in the years ahead. With diverse backgrounds and a commitment to excellence, this cohort is poised to make a positive impact both locally and beyond.
Congratulations to our 2024-2025 BPACF scholars, and may this academic year be filled with growth, discovery, and success.
Kianna Armstrong
Architecture
University of Southern California
Kennedy Ashford Cybersecurity
Hampton University
Kaylen Bannerman Journalism/Communications
Florida Memorial University
Allison Benson Elementary Education
Clark Atlanta
Victor Boyd Computer Science
Case Western Reserve University
Shamari Brazile International Affairs
George Washington University
Benjamin Brooks
Political Science
The Ohio State University
Jaylen Brunson Criminal Justice
Tennessee State University
Jordan Brunson Computer Science
The University of Akron
Aaron Burnett Finance
Morehouse College
Jenaya Carlisle Brooks Psychology
Howard University
Kiara Cartwright Human Development
Bowling Green State University
Nevaeh Coffee Psychology
Tennessee State University
Skylar Edgerton Kinesiology/ Exercise Science
Hampton University
Anaysia Englebrecht
Business Management
Kent State University
Amiracle Green Computer Science
Alabama State University
Chloe Hamilton Political Science
Loyola University of Maryland
Jon Henderson II Biology
Valparaiso University
Joshua Henderson
Education Intervention Specialist
Central State University
Rayanna Henry Biology
The Ohio State University
Bryce Hodge Political Science
Case Western Reserve University
Maylon Johnson
Theater (Liberal Arts)
The Ohio State University
Kendall Long
Biology
Howard University
Kayla Lowery
Finance
Bowie State University
Tanaziona Lucious
Pre-Physical Therapy
Cleveland State University
Tilneisha Malone
Music
Ohio University
Robert McFarren
Pre-Pharmacy
Purdue University
Sonyea Moore
Biological Anthropology & Africana Studies
Kent State University
Cheyenne Neeley
Civil Engineering
Ohio University
Samaura Newman
Aviation
Bowling Green State University
Richard Pickett
Exercise Science
Cleveland State University
Amarionna Pruitt
Nursing
Howard University
Lakeeta Robinson
Psychology
Kent State University
Autumn Sawyer
Chemical Engineering
The University of Akron
Zaynab Shaheed
Nutritional Biochemistry and Metabolism
Case Western Reserve University
Xavier Sledge
Earth Science
The University of Akron
Kennedy Smith
Computer Science & Cognitive Science
Columbia University
Reauna Walker
Biology Pre-Med
Morgan State University
Rhianna Williams
Business Administration
Kentucky State University
Jayden Willis
Finance
Bowling Green State University
India Woodson
Forensic Biology
Baldwin
Wallace University
Career Connect Internship Program
About the Program
The Career Connect Internship Program provides post-secondary students with invaluable hands-on work experience through two unique pathways. Over an 8-week summer period, students are matched with small businesses, for-profit, and nonprofit organizations that offer mini-internship opportunities tailored to their academic and career interests. Designed to foster the development of professional soft skills and enhance career readiness, the program creates a supportive and safe space for students to grow and excel Impact
The Career Connect Internship Program not only equips students with critical workplace skills but also strengthens the pipeline of historically underrepresented professionals entering the workforce. The true impact of the program is best expressed through the voices of the students:
"I would have never expected to be given an opportunity to work an internship in the field I am pursuing. This was an amazing experience.. I learned new tools, met new people, and learned more ways to adapt to the workforce setting."
"I rated it highly because, if you don't have a guaranteed internship for the summer, this is a wonderful opportunity to be placed in a learning environment tailored to your interests."
"Yes, I could have participated without the educational stipend, but it would have been challenging to dedicate as much time due to financial constraints. The stipend significantly alleviated my financial pressures, allowing me to fully engage and focus on the learning experience."
2024 Summer Interns
Underwritten by BPACF
Cameron Dawson
Major: Design
Cleveland State University
Mini-Internship Host: DesignExplorr
Chloe Hamilton
Major: Political Science
Loyola University of Maryland
Mini-Internship Host: BPACF
Jair Knight
Major: Finance & Management Consulting
Emery University
Mini-Internship Host: AKA Team
Jehiel Knight
Major: Finance
The Ohio State University
Mini-Internship Host: CLE Consulting Firm
Lyndsey Stephens
Major: Digital Arts
Bowling Green State University
Mini-Internship Host: DesignExplorr
Mini-Internship Host: CLE Consulting Firm
Legacy of Leadership
William K. Wolfe * 1976 Founder, Black Professionals Association (BPA)
Alan Shatteen
1977-1979 Chairman, BPA
Edward S. Young
1980-1982 Chairman, BPA
Arthur Baker, Jr.
1983-1984 Chairman, BPA
1985 Founder, Black Professionals Association Charitable Foundation (BPACF)
Tanya M. Allmond *
1985-1986 Chairman, BPA
1985 Founder, BPACF
1985-1986 President, BPACF 2005-2007 President, BPACF
Nancella Wilson-Harris 1985 Founder, BPACF
Henry R. Freeman, Esq. * 1985-2006 Legal Counsel, BPACF
Richard Wilkins
1987-1988 Chairman, BPA
1987-1988 President, BPACF
Sylvia R. Johnson
1989-1990 Chairman, BPA
1989-1990 President, BPACF
Constance Jefferson
1991-1992 Chairman, BPA
1991-1992 President, BPACF
*Deceased
Alexandria Johnson Boone 1991-1992 President, BPACF 1993-1994 Chairman, BPA
Ronald Barnes 1993-1995 President, BPACF
Franklin F. Martin
1995-1999 Chairman, BPA
Shelton L. Moore * 1996-1997 President, BPACF
Barbara A. Russell * 1997-2004 President, BPACF
Thomas V. Harrington 2000-2001 Chairman, BPA
Michelle E. Stewart 2002-2004 Chairman, BPA
Merle B. Griggs 2004-2006 Chairman, BPA
Michael E. Headen 2007-2008 President, BPACF
Scenario B. Adebesin 2009-2010 President, BPACF
Natoya J. Walker Minor 2010-2012 President, BPACF
Ronald V. Johnson, Esq. 2013-2019 President, BPACF
Meltrice D. Sharp, CPA 2020-2023 President, BPACF
Hall of Fame: Black Professional of the Year Awardees
2024: W. Byron Calhoun
2023: Ariane B. Kirkpatrick
2022: Renee Tramble Richard, Esq.
2021: Darrell L. McNair
2019: Vanessa L. Whiting, Esq.
2018: Robyn Minter Smyers, Esq.
2017: Erskine Cade
2016: Dr. Alex Johnson
2015: Dr. Charles S. Modlin
2014: Leon Bibb
2013: Dr. R.A. Vernon
2012: The Honorable Frank G. Jackson
2011: Randell McShepard
2009: Louise J. Gissendaner
2008: Frederick R. Nance, Esq.
2007: Arnold R. Pinkney *
2006: Margot James Copeland
2005: David Whitehead
2004: Rev. Hilton O. Smith
2003: Danny Cameron *
2002: Dr. Barbara Byrd-Bennett
* Deceased
2001: Rev. Dr. Marvin A. McMickle
1999: Dr. Jerry Sue Thornton
1998: Wayne Embry
1997: Steve D. Bullock
1996: Claire Freeman, Esq.
1995: The Honorable Stephanie Tubbs Jones *
1994: Alexandria Johnson Boone
1993: The Honorable Michael R. White, Esq.
1992: Dr. George C. Fraser
1991: The Honorable Louis Stokes, Esq. *
1990: Gloria Pace King
1989: Dr. Charles E. Taylor
1988: Dr. Nolen M. Ellison
1987: George L. Forbes, Esq.
1986: Carole F. Hoover
1985: Steve Minter *
1984: John H. Bustamante, Esq. *
1983: Rev. Dr. Otis Moss, Jr.
1982: Cheryle A. Wills *
1981: Bertram E. Gardner *
Diverse Excellence in Achievement: Lifetime
Achievers, Legacy Award and Trendsetters
Lifetime Achievers
Recognizes outstanding leaders who have made historically significant contribution to the Greater Cleveland area. Must have served in a leadership capacity for 25 years or more. These individuals are community champions who have paved the way for younger professionals to rise.
Zelma Washington George (1985)
Booker T. Tall (1987)
William F. Boyd (1995)
Virgil E. Brown (1997)
Judge Jean Murrell Capers (2000)
Bracy Lewis (2009)
Dr. Daisy Alford Smith (2015)
Dr. Linda Bradley (2015)
Dr. Julian Earls (2015)
Judge Sara J. Harper (2015)
Tanya M. Allmond (2019)
Arthur Baker, Jr. (2019)
Nancella W. Harris (2019)
Judge Ronald Adrine (2019)
Marsha Mockabee (2019)
Michael “Campy” Russell (2019)
Dr. Yvonne Pointer (2019)
Legacy Award
Recognizes an individual with 40+ years of professional achievement spanning local, regional, and national/international accomplishments.
Robert Madison, AIA (2021)
Trendsetters (rename)
Recognizes dynamic young professionals who are making a difference in Northeast Ohio.
Anita Bradley (2018)
Donovan Boyd, Sr. (2018)
Sharrona Burns (2018)
Juleian Curtis (2018)
Joshua Edmonds (2018)
Torey Tolson (2018)
Inaugural Class of 2024
On May 23rd, The Black Professionals Association Charitable Foundation (BPACF) proudly presented the inaugural class of 2024 for the 40/40 Emerging Legends. This prestigious recognition celebrates 40 trailblazing professionals, each under 40, who exemplify leadership, vision, and a commitment to excellence in their fields and communities.
The 40/40 Emerging Legends represent a new era of Black leadership, one that continues to push boundaries and redefine success. These individuals are not only making waves in their respective industries but are also dedicated to mentoring and uplifting the next generation of professionals. Through their dedication, they ensure that the future of our community is bright and that opportunities are accessible to all.
BPACF is honored to celebrate this diverse and accomplished group, whose contributions are helping to build a stronger, more vibrant professional landscape. Together, they embody the essence of BPACF’s mission—empowering and inspiring the next generation of Black leaders.
2024 BPACF 40/40 Emerging Legends Honorees
Tierra Banks
Heather N. Beasley
Indigo Bishop
Dr. Lauren Bouchard
Dr. Authur B. Boyd III
George Bukenya
Raphael Collins
Ivan T. Conard
Kendra Davis
Camille Genise
Kayla Griffin
Chardé Hollins
Domonic Hopson
Dr. Shamarah Hutchins
Aaron Jones
Tiarrah Kent
Khalilah Lawson
Nicole L. Liatos
Dr. Kimone Lightford
Jason Lockett Sr.
Ariel S. McNair
Terrance Scott Mitchell
Andrew Newsome
Dr. HerMaya Onunwor
Amanda P. Parker
Sam "SP" Prewitt
Dr. Heather M. Rice
Jamil Sanders
Kortney S. Siggers
Shaleeta Smith
Brittany Smith-Fisher
Shanelle Smith Whigham
Richard A. Starr
Delanté Spencer Thomas
Gelise Littlejohn Thomas
Chantel Tolbert
Tierra Latrice Tramble
Nkiruka Washington
Myesha Watkins
Dianne Williams Suntala
Save The Dates 2025
JANUARY 7, 2025
BPACF Scholar
Winter Symposium
Post-secondary students welcome 10 AM -1 PM
Jerry Sue Thornton Center 2500 East 22nd Street Cleveland, OH
JANUARY 15, 2025 - MARCH 30, 2025
BPACF Scholars Program
Application Intake Period
2025-2026 Academic Year www.bpacf.org
MAY 22, 2025
40 Under 40 Emerging Legends Salute 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Karamu House Theater 2355 East 89th Street Cleveland, OH 44106
NOVEMBER 1, 2025
45th Annual Scholarship & Awards Gala 6 PM - 11 PM
With Gratitude,
As the 44th Annual BPACF Scholarship and Awards Gala comes to a close, we extend our deepest thanks to each and every one of you. Your presence and support drive the work we do to uplift, empower, and inspire Black professionals and scholars.
To our generous sponsors, partners, and donors: your contributions impact the lives of BPACF Scholars and our community. Together, we are expanding opportunities and building a legacy of excellence that will last for generations.
To our 2024 Black Professional of the Year, W. Byron Calhoun: thank you for your leadership, inspiration, and commitment to service. You are a beacon of hope for future generations, and your achievements embody the spirit of this honor.
To our dedicated Board of Trustees: your leadership, guidance, and vision have shaped BPACF into the strong and vibrant organization it is today. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to advancing our mission and supporting our scholars and programs.
To our passionate volunteers: your time and dedication make everything possible. From organizing tonight's event to supporting our year-round efforts, we are deeply grateful for your hard work and commitment to BPACF’s success.
We are especially proud of our BPACF Scholars, who are pursuing excellence at these esteemed institutions:
Alabama State University
Baldwin Wallace University
Bowie State University
Bowling Green State University
Case Western Reserve University
Central State University
Clark Atlanta University
Cleveland State University
Columbia University
Florida Memorial University
George Washington University
Hampton University
Howard University
Kent State University
Kentucky State University
Loyola University of
Maryland
Morehouse College
Morgan State University
Ohio University
Purdue University
Tennessee State University
The Ohio State University
The University of Akron University of Southern California
Valparaiso University
To our BPACF family—scholars, alumni, and supporters—thank you for embodying our mission. We are honored to walk with you on this journey.
As we reflect on tonight's celebration, we are reminded that greatness is achieved through the strength of a village. Together, we are committed to progress, equity, and opportunity for all.
Thank you for believing in the power of education and community. We look forward to continuing this journey with you.
Laurie Murphy, Executive Director
Dr. Michele Scott Taylor, Board President
