Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated Pittsburgh Chapter 20th Biennial Presentation Ball
2021
Presentation Ball To benefit Jeremiah’s Place and the Jack and Jill of America Foundation, Inc. Omni William Penn Hotel Grand Ballroom Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania June 1, 2021
Greetings President Cofield and the entire Pittsburgh Chapter, It is my great pleasure to congratulate the Pittsburgh Chapter on their 20th Anniversary Biennial Presentation Ball. As many of you know, this signature fundraiser has been the premier event for 20 years. The theme - A Celebration of Legacy, Purpose, and Resilience is not only befitting for these unusual times but represents what this chapter means to the history of our beloved Jack and Jill of America Inc. After the flame was lit in Philadelphia in 1938, the Pittsburgh chapter became our 4th chapter joining NYC, DC, Pittsburgh PA, Baltimore MD, Boston MA, Buffalo NY, Columbus OH, Dunham NC, and Memphis as one of our first chapters. Since its founding, Pittsburgh has been leading the way with its commitment to developing future leaders of ALL children. The impact this chapter has had on the community is demonstrated through its support of invaluable agencies like Jeremiah’s Place. Undoubtedly knowing that your children can rest in a safe place and that your family’s food insecurities can be met brings much peace to those needing their services. I would like to congratulate the presentees tonight. You have worked hard to get to this day and deserve all the splendor it will bring, this will truly be a special memory. Your parents, family, and friends have waited for this special moment and are happy to support you. As you follow your path, be sure to incorporate the many lessons learned as they will be meaningful in this journey called life. Congratulations to Event Chairs Kimberly Moses, J.D. and Alexis James Steals, without your hard work and sacrifice this event would not be possible. Take a Bow, well deserved. As the largest African American family, 252 chapters strong, over 12,000 mothers, and 20,000 kids we continue to partner with other premier national organizations to develop opportunities not only for our children but those of our community. Please know your National Executive Board under the leadership of National President Kornisha McGill Brown is proud of all that you have done for your children and those in your community. Continue to be ON MISSION and ON PURPOSE. Sincerely,
Shirell A. Gross National Program Director Jack and Jill of America Inc.
June 1, 2021 Dear Pittsburgh Chapter, Congratulations on your 20th Anniversary Presentation Ball. All in attendance will marvel at the six graduating seniors and two juniors commitment to excellence, leadership, service and dedication to supporting Jack and Jill Foundation and Jeremiah’s Place. Gratitude must be shown to those who organized this journey for these exceptional teens. Today’s event chairs, mothers and fathers are continuing the long legacy of excellence the Pittsburgh Chapter has poured in our youth. It is so wonderful to see the abundance of love showered onto our future leaders. It is very clear that the goals of empowering all children to make a difference have been realized through this event. I am honored to share in this moment with all. Thank you for allowing me to bask in the richness you have provided through your exemplary work. I hope you cherish the memory of this special occasion forever. Warmly,
Melinda Alexis Hayes, Esq. Eastern Regional Director
Greetings Family, Friends, Members and Presentees, On behalf of the Pittsburgh Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated, I am truly blessed with the unique honor of welcoming you to our 20th Anniversary Presentation Ball. With resiliency, courage and dedication to service, our devoted members strive to continue the rich legacy and mission of our organization and I am pleased that we are blessed to celebrate success despite the challenges and triumphs of the last year. Together with the devoted and supportive members of the Pittsburgh Chapter, we commend and congratulate each of our presentees for their perseverance and dedication to the Jack and Jill way of excellence and achievement. The demonstrated accomplishments and efforts of our celebrated future leaders are notable and nothing short of remarkable. Special thanks are extended to our charitable sponsors and donors that will allow us to support organizations that serve the most vulnerable and well-deserving children and families. We are overjoyed to support the phenomenal philanthropic efforts the Jack and Jill of America Foundation, Inc. as well as ball charity, Jeremiah’s Place, a Pittsburgh non-profit organization that protects children and provides safe and supportive solutions for families experiencing a critical need for childcare. Your generosity will allow us to not only continue to share our collective passions, talents, and resources to address the unique challenges that impact our African American youth in the Pittsburgh community but also support the critical needs of our partner nonprofit organizations. Through our shared vision, collaboration and innovation, our mission to ensure all children can realize their full potential and recognize their own -“Power to Make a Difference” - will be closer to a reality. With more than 75 years of service to the community, our 20th Anniversary Presentation Ball seeks to further the efforts of the Pittsburgh Chapter and our commitment to programming and service that nurtures and develops our future African American leaders. My sincere appreciation and gratitude are given to the committed members of the Pittsburgh Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated, and I am thankful to have the opportunity to join you in service. Congratulations and best wishes for continued success! In Service and Devotion to Our Children,
Bridgette N. Cofield, JD Pittsburgh Chapter President Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated
It is our distinct pleasure to welcome you to the Jack and Jill of America, Inc., Pittsburgh Chapter’s 20th Biennial Presentation Ball. Our ball theme, “A Celebration of Legacy, Purpose and Resilience” was born out of our desire to protect the ball legacy that our chapter built over the past 39 years and our purpose as an organization; and to do so with an unapologetic determination and resiliency even as the world navigates a global pandemic. This ball has been a true labor of love. We began planning for this event in late 2019 which included celebrating our chapter’s 20th presentation ball in grand style the weekend of Thanksgiving in 2020. However, after COVID-19 struck the globe in such a devastating way, we had to reimagine the timing, attendance, and delivery of this ball; which is what legacy, purpose and resiliency is all about. The Pittsburgh Chapter has been celebrating the accomplished young adults in our chapter since 1982. Our purpose as an organization is to nurture our future leaders, and if we are honest, the black community has always been resilient—this is nothing new for us. So tonight, in the spirit of legacy, purpose, and resilience, we are showcasing black excellence during a different time and through the blessing of modern technology. This 20th Presentation Ball will be memorable for a variety of reasons, including a tribute to the former ball chairs, mothers, and presentees who built this legacy over the past 19 balls. Tonight, we are privileged to present to society eight exceptional junior and senior high school students from the Greater Pittsburgh area. These young adults have also had to reimagine much, including school attendance, college visits, and how they gather to fellowship. And yet they have endured. They have endured masks, restrictions, physical distance from their family and friends, online schooling and canceled extra-curricular activities. All of this has made them stronger, more flexible and resilient. They are very invested in tonight’s celebration and have established their own theme for the evening titled “It’s About Time” to describe how excited they are to have this celebration finally occur. Jeremiah’s Place, our local non-profit beneficiary is located in the East Liberty area of Pittsburgh and is the only emergency childcare provider in the region. The COVID-19 pandemic has required them to also reimagine their role in the community and assume the role of a community resource for families with food insecurities and other needs. The Jack and Jill of America Foundation, Inc., our national charity, is internationally recognized for its dedication to providing support for children in the areas of housing insecurity, education and health and wellness. Both Jeremiah’s Place and the Jack and Jill of America Foundation, Inc. represent the legacy, purpose, and resiliency that we are celebrating tonight. Please join us for a moment of silence for the souls we lost over the past year due to COVID-19 and the loved ones left behind to protect their legacy—that they might find purpose and resiliency as well. May God bless and keep each of you. Your 2021 Ball Co-Chairs,
Kimberly Moses, J.D.
Alexis James Steals
Good evening ladies and gentlemen, and welcome to the 20th biennial Presentation Ball of the Pittsburgh Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. My name is Malcolm Jordan, and I am the current president of the Pittsburgh Jack and Jill teen group. We are very fortunate to be able to gather here tonight in light of the COVID-19 pandemic that has been affecting us for the last year. I would like to extend a big thank you to all the Jack and Jill families here tonight, as well as our co-ball chairs, Mrs. Steals and Mrs. Moses for helping to make this event the best it can be. I would also like to give a special thank you to my parents for supporting me and giving me the opportunity to be a part of this magnificent event. Our ball is not only a celebration of our presentee teen group, it is also a fundraiser with this year’s proceeds benefitting Jeremiah’s Place and our national foundation. We kicked off our 2020 ball year with the intention of supporting these charities with community service until everything came to an abrupt halt and we had to reschedule this event. So this ball is very special not only because it is the 20th ball, but because it is a testament of our fortitude as a chapter; it would have been easy to just skip the ball this year, but supporting our ball charities and protecting our legacy were that important. Our group of presentees has shown so much resilience this year and found creative ways to meet with each other, like zoom calls and socially distanced hangouts and supporting our charity with a food drive and fundraising. There are 8 presentees this year, each unique and talented in our own way. Within our group we have future engineers, business executives, entrepreneurs, medical professionals, and culinary experts. I think I speak for all the presentees when I say we have worked very hard to make this ball as special as possible. Between dance practices and so many other obstacles, we still found ways to meet each other in a safe manner, we are very excited to create an experience you will enjoy. Once again thank you for joining us for this incredible event, and my fellow presentees and I hope you enjoy the evening.
Malcolm Anthony Jordan Pittsburgh Chapter, Teen President
A Celebration of Legacy, Purpose, and Resilience MUSIC WELCOME Mrs. Kimberly Moses, J.D. and Mrs. Alexis James Steals 2021 Presentation Ball Co-Chairs GREETINGS Mrs. Kelly McCormick President, Pittsburgh Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated SPECIAL RECOGNITIONS AND REMARKS Mrs. Kimberly Moses, J.D. 2021 Presentation Ball Co-Chair 20th ANNIVERSARY TRIBUTE Mrs. Alexis James Steals 2021 Presentation Ball Co-Chair 2021 JACK AND JILL BALL PRESENTATION Gretchen Givens Generett, Ph.D. and Mr. William O. Generett, Jr., Esquire Grand Marshalls TEEN PRESIDENT REMARKS Master Malcolm Anthony Jordan Teen President, Pittsburgh Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated INVOCATION DINNER DANCING
Grand Marshalls Gretchen Givens Generett, Ph.D. Gretchen Givens Generett, Ph.D. is the Dean of the School of Education at Duquesne University and the Noble J. Dick Endowed Chair in Community Outreach. She is a qualitative researcher whose research centers educational stories that have been rendered invisible. Her scholarship intermingles traditional sociology of education, African American studies, and feminist studies with more progressive concepts of justice that examine agency, empowerment, and action. In teaching, Gretchen offers stories as a place for students to recast their individual stories to form a collective narrative that can be used as a catalyst for transformation. Her research and teaching suggest that reflective and interactive storytelling serve a function in uncovering and (re)covering our individual and collective stories so that we can be intentional in our efforts to dismantle systemic inequities. Her most recent publications include: Five Practices for Equity Focused Leadership: A Guide for Building Equity-Focused Schools and Systems co-authored with Sharon I. Radd, Ed.D., Mark A. Gooden, Ph.D. and George Theoharris, Ph.D. (2021, ASCD) and The American dream for students of color: Barriers to educational success coauthored with Amy M. Olson, Ph.D. (2021, Lexington Books). Dr. Generett currently serves as president elect of the American Educational Studies Association, co-editor of Professing Education, and associate editor of the Oxford Encyclopedia of Race and Education. Locally, she serves on the boards of SSB Bank, Alumni Theatre Company, Catalyst Charter School, and Contemporary Craft. Dr. Generett received her B.A. in English from Spelman College and her Ph.D. in Social Foundations of Education from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She has been a mother member of Jack and Jill, Incorporated, Pittsburgh Chapter since 2005.
William Generett Jr., Esq. William Generett Jr., Esq. serves as the senior vice president of the office of civic engagement and external relations at Duquesne University, where he oversees the University’s office of community engagement, its government affairs function, and the office of corporate and foundation relations. Prior to assuming this role, he served as president and chief executive officer of Urban Innovation21, a unique entrepreneurship and community based economic development focused public-private partnership. Generett is a very active member of the community where he serves on several boards and advisory committees including The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, Carnegie Museums, Center of Life, Shady Side Academy and the Business Advisory Council of the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland, Pittsburgh Chapter. In 2018, he was appointed by Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf to serve as a member of the Ben Franklin Technology Development Authority. In 2014, he was appointed by U.S. Secretary of Commerce Pritzker to serve as a member of the U.S. Department of Commerce National Advisory Council on Innovation and Entrepreneurship. He joined The Pittsburgh Foundation Board in 2019 and currently serves as the chair of the governance committee. A Pittsburgh native, Bill earned his J.D. from Emory University School of Law and is a Phi Beta Kappa, magna cum laude graduate of Morehouse College. For several years he practiced real estate and corporate law with an Atlanta, GA law firm. He also serves as a consultant in many venues. In 2016, he was awarded an honorary doctorate by Carlow University. Bill was presented in the 1989 Jack and Jill, Incorporated, Pittsburgh Chapter Presentation Ball.
Menu Meschlun Greens, Maytag Bleu Cheese, Dried Cranberries, Roasted Walnuts and an Apple Cider Vinaigrette Tri-Pepper Crusted Black Angus Filet Mignon with Brandy Peppercorn Cream joined with Black Pepper Crusted Pan Seared Salmon with Pomegranate Reduction Smashed Red Skin Potatoes Green Beans, Carrots, and Yellow Squash Dessert Trio Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Carrot Cake Puff Raspberry Curd Tart Starbucks Coffee and Assorted Tazo Teas
2021 Debutantes & Beaus Master Akhu Sebi Black Master William Stafford Frazier Master Tyler Jennings Hill Master Malcolm Anthony Jordan Master Langston Ellison Moses Miss Maya Lynn Roberts Master Kaleo Antonio Rodriguez Miss Alanna Nicole Steals
Akhu Sebi Black The Kiski School
Academic and career aspirations: Akhu plans to declare self-defined major in Africana Studies and Global and International Studies, then pursue a Master’s in Public Policy. He earned both a Dean’s Scholarship at the College of Wooster and a Presidential Scholarship to Seton Hall University and will matriculate to the College of Wooster. High school profile and accomplishments: Akhu is a graduate of The Kiski School in Saltsburg, PA. At Kiski, he was awarded the History Award for exemplary curiosity and performance in History and played Varsity Football and Wrestling, as well as Junior Varsity Lacrosse and Soccer. Akhu has studied West African drumming since he was four years old. He served as Lead Djembe and DunDun Drummer at Sankofa Village for the Arts and Snare Drummer Civil War Buffalo Soldier Re-enactor for the 6th US Colored Troops Drum and Fife Corps at Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall. He also held an internship in the Info Link 100 Summer Computer Camp sponsored by 100 Black Men of Western Pennsylvania, Inc. He has also been an avid swimmer since about the age of four; he has worked as a certified life guard. Most impactful community service projects: Akhu was most impacted by volunteering for Jeremiah’s Place, helping to pack and organize the storage and conducting the virtual food drive. Most memorable Jack and Jill experience: His most memorable Jack and Jill experiences were the trip to Hershey Park and the COPA New Year’s Party. Most proud of: Akhu is most proud of earning college scholarships, which will allow him to complete his Bachelor’s degree debt-free. Hashtag that best describes personal motto: #resilience
William Stafford Frazier Central Catholic High School
Academic and career aspirations: Since he started editing and managing his sister Nia’s YouTube account several years ago, he became fascinated with creating digital content. William is excited to be continuing his academic career studying in the Screenwriting Program at Chapman University. William has always dreamed of starting his own production company where he can create original stories with an authentic voice from a black male perspective. High school profile and accomplishments: Attending Central Catholic High School has provided William the opportunity to discover new talents and interests. One of his greatest accomplishments was joining the Varsity bowling team his junior year with a WPIAL championship. Being part of the varsity bowling team and making it to the States tournaments in his junior and senior years was another big highlight. Most impactful community service projects: William’s most memorable community service project was working with his dad on a project where they volunteered to rehab a home for a person in need. It was a hands-on experience where they remodeled a home using professional tools on a construction site. Most memorable Jack and Jill experience: One of William’s favorite Jack and Jill experiences was participating in a food drive for Jeremiah’s Place. Overall, he really enjoyed participating in Jack and Jill Teen activities with his sister and cousin. Most proud of: Starting his Will’s Workouts business is William’s greatest accomplishment which makes him really proud. As the founder and creator of Will’s Workouts, William created the website, logo, business plan and marketing strategies. He has learned a lot about fitness, business and building a network of customers and ambassadors. Hashtag that best describes personal motto: #IWillPersistUntilISucceed
Tyler Jennings Hill Seton LaSalle High School
Academic and career aspirations: Tyler plans to attend the University of Toledo and pursue a degree in Psychology. His career aspirations are to work for the Federal Bureau of Investigations as a Behavioral Analyst. High school profile and accomplishments: Tyler is a senior at Seton LaSalle High School where he serves as a Student Ambassador. He competed in track and field, basketball, and he is a four year varsity letterman in football. Most impactful community service projects: Tyler enjoyed serving Jeremiah’s Place, Homewood Children’s Village, St. Mary of the Mount Outreach Projects, and the Beltzhoover Community Organization. Most memorable Jack and Jill experience: Attending NYC COPA, representing the Pittsburgh Chapter at morning roll call for Mother’s Cluster, serving as Teen Treasure, and competing in the 2018 Workday Cluster Oratorical Contest. Tyler also participates in Gavel Club. Most proud of: Tyler is most proud of his sports accomplishments where he has a record of 17 Touchdowns, he was a WPIAL 2020 First Team Qualifier, with a 2019 Honorable Sports Mention. Hashtag that best describes personal motto: #winnersneverquitandquitersneverwin
Malcolm Anthony Jordan Quaker Valley High School
Academic and career aspirations: Malcolm will attend Temple University in the fall. He would like to study mechanical engineering or physical therapy. High school profile and accomplishments: Malcolm is a senior at Quaker Valley High School. He is a member of the varsity basketball team and percussion ensemble. He is also the founder and president of his school’s first Black Student Union. Most impactful community service projects: Malcolm organized a collection of essential items for the Sewickley Community Center. He also enjoyed volunteering at the Ronald McDonald House and collecting donations for Jeremiah’s Place. Most memorable Jack and Jill experience: Malcolm will never forget attending the 2018 Teen Conference and COPA in New York City. Most proud of: Malcolm is most proud of founding his school’s first Black Student Union. He was then asked to be part of a group of students who work with administration to find ways to improve diversity, equity, and inclusion in our school district. Hashtag that best describes personal motto: #securethebag
Langston Ellison Moses Central Catholic High School
Academic and career aspirations: Langston will be attending a four-year university where he intends to major in Entrepreneurship and Communications. He aspires to run his own business focusing on real estate development and has already formed his own limited liability company, LM Enterprises LLC. High school profile and accomplishments: Langston spent his first two years at Winchester Thurston where he was a student ambassador and a member of the search committees for the Director of Teaching and Learning and the Athletic Director. Langston played varsity basketball during his freshman and sophomore years at Winchester, and in 2020 he led the boys basketball team to their first round and quarter finals playoff wins in school history. As a sophomore, Langston was included in the Class 2A-3 All Section Players by the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and has been ranked among the top 50 players in Pennsylvania by several sports organizations. In the fall of 2020, Langston transferred to Central Catholic High School where he continues to excel in honors courses, serves as a tour ambassador, and is a member of the boys varsity basketball team. His favorite classes at Central are leadership development and pre-calculus. After recovering from a season ending injury this past year, he is looking forward to rejoining the team to play his last year of high school basketball this coming Fall. Most impactful community service projects: Langston enjoyed his service as Teen President for the program year of 2019-2020. Under his leadership, the Pittsburgh teens increased their social media footprint, instituted paperless teen meetings, and independently managed funds available to them through the teen chapter assessment. In the past program year Langston served as the Parliamentarian and chaired the Teen Nominations Committee. In service to the community, Langston’s most impactful projects include food distribution at the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank and the food drive for Jeremiah’s Place. These projects gave Langston a sense of perspective about his own life and his many blessings, especially in the era of COVID-19. Most memorable Jack and Jill experience: Langston’s most memorable Jack and Jill experience was attending the Eastern Region Teen Conference in 2019 where he networked with teens throughout the region and had an opportunity to learn about parliamentary procedure during the various plenary sessions. Most proud of: Langston is most proud of his family. Hashtag that best describes personal motto: #goodvibes
Maya Lynn Roberts Winchester Thurston School
Academic and career aspirations: Maya plans to attend a four-year university or college and major in a medical related field while playing basketball. High school profile and accomplishments: Maya is in her junior year at Winchester Thurston School and has earned a 4.0 or higher GPA every year on her educational journey to date. Maya has been on the varsity basketball team since her freshman year of high school. She has also been the captain of the varsity basketball team since her sophomore year. The 2020-2021 season was one of Maya’s most memorable because her team reached the WPIAL Semi-Finals as well as she was selected to the Cover Three Athletics Fab5 Team and the Post-Gazette All Class Team. She was elected president of the Black Student Union (BSU) in her sophomore year and continues to serve in this capacity. Most impactful community service projects: Maya cohosted a Winchester Thurston School BSU fundraising event that donated an excess of $900 to a charity that offers a variety of services to Black homeless men. With other Jack and Jill teen members she volunteered at the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank and assisted with the distribution of food to financially challenged families. Most memorable Jack and Jill experience: Maya enjoyed serving as the teen Corresponding Secretary in 2019 and as the teen Vice-President this past program year. She attended the 2018 Eastern Region Teen Conference where she participated in several enlightening workshops; enjoyed interesting new experiences, met teens from all across the region and communicates with many of them currently. Most proud of: Maya is most proud of her commitment to increasing diversity and equity within her school community. In pursuit of this goal, she has conducted diversity and allyship workshops for Winchester Thurston School‘s faculty, administrators, and the Board of Trustees. In a collaborative effort with The Ellis School, she cohosted one of Winchester Thurston School‘s first dance fundraisers were students from both schools collected can goods for donation to a local food bank. All event proceeds were donated to a charity dedicated to aiding Black homeless men across America. During the COVID-19 Pandemic, Maya conducted a successful virtual case study workshop that focused on analyzing police brutality cases and victims of wrongful convictions. She holds the distinction of being the first sophomore appointed as a member of Winchester Thurston School’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Executive Board. Hashtag that best describes personal motto: #justbeyou
Kaleo Antonio Rodriguez Central Catholic High School
Academic and career aspirations: Kaleo has confirmed his attendance to Howard University in Washington, DC where he proudly intends to complete a Bachelor’s degree in Business Marketing with a minor in Psychology. High school profile and accomplishments: Kaleo is a proud graduate of Central Catholic High School in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Kaleo maintained high honors throughout his high school career, and was a member of the National Honor Society. He was also accepted into the school’s Baginski Scholars Program, where he completed a 70 page senior thesis on Redlining and Gentrification in Pittsburgh. Kaleo also served as a Viking Ambassador for his school, a program which supported his role as a leader and role model for incoming students. Kaleo also volunteered multiple years as a counselor for Central Catholic’s Because Academics Matter, a summer program that introduced prospective students to the school in a fun and academic manner. Kaleo was also a member of the school’s Robotics Team and also lettered on the school’s varsity tennis team. Most impactful community service projects: Kaleo served as teen Parliamentarian with the Pittsburgh Chapter of Jack and Jill. He also appreciated the many Jack and Jill service project opportunities, he especially enjoyed the recent food drive on behalf of the nonprofit Jeremiah’s Place. Kaleo was selected to participate in the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Teen Academy, which is a highly selective program where students learn from Special Agents about the investigative practices and tactics of the Bureau. The FBI also selected Kaleo to serve as moderator for an event that was co-hosted by the FBI and WQED Multimedia which brought together participants from across the region discussing the regional opioid crisis. Kaleo loves to cook and has participated in the Steel Chef Jr. Competition cook off that was the culmination of eleven weeks of culinary training. In addition to cooking, Kaleo also enjoys football, skiing and playing video games. Most memorable Jack and Jill experience: Kaleo’s favorite Jack and Jill experience was travelling to New York with the other Jack and Jill teens to attend COPA, however teen conference in Washington, DC and the all-white summer party in Martha’s Vineyard were tied for second favorite experience. At COPA, he especially enjoyed meeting people from different chapters and watching the performance. Most proud of: Kaleo is very proud of the way that he was able to successfully navigate all of his high school responsibilities and completing his senior thesis while maintaining high honor roll grades. Hashtag that best describes personal motto: #relax
Alanna Nicole Steals The Ellis School
Academic and career aspirations: Alanna will attend Purdue University’s School of Engineering, where her concentration will be Biomedical or Civil Engineering. Alanna’s career aspirations include using her education and skills to build a better world which includes inspiring other young ladies to pursue science and math-related activities. High school profile and accomplishments: Alanna is a senior at The Ellis School where she excels academically, is a triathlete, and is a member of the Ellis Black Student Union. In addition to playing soccer, basketball, and lacrosse, Alanna’s extracurricular activities include being a member of the Tech Challenge Robotics Team, an active member of Girls Scout of America, and is a four-year student of the University of Pittsburgh’s pre-college STEM program, Investing Now. Alanna is grateful for being an Ellis “super” lifer and is proud to have played three sports each year of high school. While Alanna has always excelled in math and science, she has dedicated her time to becoming a better writer. Alanna is an avid reader and enjoys writing poetry. Most impactful community service projects: Alanna has a heart for helping others. Through both Jack and Jill and her own endeavors, Alanna has rendered countless hours serving others. Alanna remembers service activities at the Ronald McDonald House, Jeremiah’s Place, The Homewood House, and the Pittsburgh Food Bank. As Teen Community Service Chair and Teen Foundation Chair, Alanna had the honor of planning several teen service activities and a few fundraising activities. During the COVID-19 Pandemic, Alanna raised a significant amount of money for Jeremiah’s Place through the virtual Highmark Walk. Alanna considers serving as a weekly Sunday School Assistant for preschool students at Allegheny Center Alliance to be her most impactful service role to date. Alanna has served in this capacity for six years. Most memorable Jack and Jill experience: During Alanna’s fifteen years in Jack and Jill, she has had innumerable impressionable Jack and Jill experiences. Alanna most memorable experiences include attending Teen Conference 2018, visiting the African American Heritage Museum, attending Teen Conference 2019 and the unforgettable trip to New York City to attend COPA in 2019. Alanna also fondly remembers the Jack and Jill Cultural Exchange Cruise, where she visited Spain, Italy, and France with her family and extended Jack and Jill Family. Most proud of: Alanna is most proud of her dedication to the activities she enjoys and appreciates. From achieving her Girl Scout Silver Award to being named Investing Now’s Outstanding Student for Academic Achievement to being a four-year triathlete, Alanna is always focused, committed, and determined to do her best. Hashtag that best describes personal motto: #Fakeituntilyoumakeit
2021 Debutantes
2021 Beaus
2021 Debutantes & Beaus
2020 Presentee Activities: Before the World Changed
T
he presentees kicked off their ball experience with a family brunch in January 2020 at the Diamond Run Golf Course where they received words of wisdom from former presentees Madison Ware and Ryan Mitchell, as well as Associate Mother Dr. Rhonda Johnson. Later that month the ball teens enjoyed a social activity with dinner at Red Robin before taking in the movie Bad Boys III. In February, the presentees, along with their families, completed a community service project at Jeremiah’s Place by helping to inventory and reorganize its storage facility. In early March, the presentees began their college readiness activities with a workshop led by Jack and Jill dad, Mr. Richard Fann. The March workshop would be the last time the teens were able to see each other in person until September. Over the summer, they participated in a more in-depth, online college readiness program with Mr. Fann, which focused on the application process, personal essays, financial aid, and SAT Prep.
2021 Presentee Activities: The New Normal
T
he ball teens resumed limited activity in the Fall of 2020 and participated in the chapter’s community service project at the Greater Pittsburgh Food Bank distributing food to over 500 vehicles on a crisp October evening. During the weekend of Halloween, they participated in an outdoor marshmallow roast event hosted by the Steals family where they got to enjoy one of the last days of Fall outdoors and engage in physical activity. In November, the ball teens launched a food drive for Jeremiah’s Place and collected in excess of 2,000 pounds of groceries for area families. After another hiatus, they resumed activities this Spring with an outing at Top Golf, an etiquette and networking luncheon with former Jack and Jill Mother Member Crystal McCormick and a photo shoot expressing themselves with photos representing their hobbies and interests. The teens enjoyed their many dance rehearsals and the Jacks got together for their tuxedo fitting. The ball season ended with a pampering session and rehearsal luncheon at Diamond Run Golf Club where the teens received gifts and reflected on what participating in the presentation ball means to them. As they prepared for tonight’s event, they coined their own theme, “It’s About Time!”
Pittsburgh Chapter Officers 2019-2021 Executive Board Bridgette Cofield, President Kelly McCormick, Vice-President Rhonda Bolding, Program Director Erica Grant, Treasurer Della Hollins, Financial Secretary Nichol Greene, Recording Secretary Crystal Turner, Corresponding Secretary Jennifer Bennett Brown, Historian
2021-2023 Executive Board Kelly McCormick, President Nichol Greene, Vice-President Rhonda Fischer, Program Director Erica Grant, Treasurer Della Hollins, Financial Secretary Joan Bartlett, Recording Secretary Falesha Hollins, Corresponding Secretary Jennifer Bennett Brown, Historian
Pittsburgh Chapter Mothers
Front Row (from left to right): Nichol Greene, Erica Grant, Bridgette Cofield, Kelly McCormick, Rhonda Bolding, Jennifer Bennett Brown, Bibiana Steverson Second Row (from left to right): Jalila Bullock, Karen Swift (Associate Mother), Alexis J. Steals, Denise Smalley, Ayana Teter, Christina Scott, Dina Clark, Leslie Britton, Marsha Wade, Melissa Fann, Kimberly Moses, Janine Macklin Third Row (from left to right): Lara Washington (Associate Mother), DeVona Hopkins, Bethany Criswell, Gretchen Generett, Randi Jordan, Carla Gathers, Rosa Miller, Falesha Hollins, Annice Reese, Cristel Temple, Melodie Roach
Members and Their Families Dara and Gregory Allen Micah Allen Evan Allen
Tekiesha and Jose Daniel Kalel Daniel Londyn Daniel
Joan and Scott Bartlett Lindsey Washington
Leslie and Clarence Dozier, J.D. Evan Dozier
Dr. Edda and Samuel Black Mausar Black Akhu Black
Melissa and Richard Fann, Jr. Richard Fann III
Rhonda and Kevin Bolding Kira Bolding Jennifer and Jason Brown William Brown Walter Brown Tina and Milan Brown Sanaa Brown Nyla Brown Jalila and Torey Bullock Torey Bullock Elijah Bullock Kanika and Jeff Capel Cameron Capel Sydney Capel Elijah Capel
Rhonda and Charles Fischer III Cameron Fischer Charles Fischer IV Dr. Holly and Evan Frazier, Sr. William Frazier Carla and Rashard Gathers Gabrielle Gathers Tiffany Gathers Dr. Gretchen and William Generett, Jr., J.D. Gabrielle Generett Erica and Harold Grant, Jr. Rachel Grant Nichol and Claye Greene Mason Greene Logan Greene
Stephanie Carter Olivia Brooks Julian Brooks
Della and John Hollins Jalen Hollins Jasmine Hollins
Dina Clark Kaleo Clark
Falesha and Ty Hollins Tyler Hollins Taylor Hollins
Bridgette and Eric Cofield Brayden Cofield Dr. Daria Crawley Xavier Crawley Vaughan Crawley Bethany and Roland Criswell Roland Criswell, Jr. Brandon Criswell
DeVona and David Hopkins Dailyn Hopkins Donovan Hopkins Drew Elise Hopkins Pamela and Antoine Jordan Malcolm Jordan Noah Jordan Olivia Jordan Savannah Jordan
Randie and Darrell Jordan Havana Jordan Harrison Jordan
Denise and Darrell Smalley Donovan Smalley Daniel Smalley
Dalila and Jason King Ja’mier King Christopher King
LaVette and Alvin Smith Amari Smith Landis Smith
Janine and Warner N. Macklin III, J.D. Victoria Melia Macklin
Alexis and Melvin Steals, Jr. Alanna Steals Garrett “Drew” Steals
A. Kelly and Darren McCormick Quincy McCormick Rosa and Max Miller Lucien Miller
Bibiana and Jason Steverson Tyler Hill Steverson Shelby Steverson
Kimberly and Darnell Moses, J.D. Langston Moses
Melinda and Ricardo Suzensky Aiden Suzensky Cameron Suzensky
Annice and Albert Reese Adyn Reese Ally Reese
Christel Temple Tyler Temple
Stephanie and Johnathan Rideau Ana Rideau Melodie and Charles Roach III Storm Roach Alexandra Graves
Ayana and Aaron Teter Evangeline Teter Naomi Teter Ezra Teter Crystal and Morris Turner, Jr. Morris Turner III
Sherry and Brian Roberts Maya Roberts
Zerlina and Jamelle Ushery Zoe Ushery
Lisa and Tillman Rushing Reagan Rushing
Deborah Vereen Jacqueline Vereen
Christina and Donnell Scott Carson Scott Campbell Scott
Marsha and Clarence Wade Joshua Wade
Amye and Christopher Sledge Zoi Sledge
2020-21 Teen Officers
National History “To us as mothers, [Jack and Jill] has become a means of furthering an inherent and natural desire—to bestow upon our children all opportunities possible for a normal and graceful approach to a beautiful adulthood.” – Marion Stubbs Thomas
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ack and Jill of America, Incorporated was founded in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on January 21, 1938. Its founders, Marion Stubbs Thomas and Louise Truitt Dench, envisioned an organization of mothers who were friends with a common goal of enriching the lives of their children through social, cultural, educational and spiritual activities. Racial segregation was the order of the day and as a result enriching the lives of black children as visualized by the founders required a deliberate plan of action. Today, Jack and Jill of America is a nationwide non-profit organization of more than 230 chapters, 12,000 mothers, and 40,000 family members. The organization is divided into seven regions and since 1994, the national headquarters has been located in Alexandria, Virginia. “Up the Hill” is its official publication. Much of the charitable work of Jack and Jill of America is done through its foundation which has a rich history of funding educational and charitable organizations. Such organizations have included Africare, the United Negro College Fund, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Social Change, the NAACP Legal Defense Fund as well as Operation PUSH and a host of others. Today, Jack and Jill’s charitable efforts on both the national and local levels continue to tell the story of the people, places, and programs that it cares about. To commemorate our 80th Anniversary, the book For The Children: The History of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated was published along with the unveiling of the Jack and Jill Museum during the 43rd National Convention in Kansas City, Missouri. As the oldest and largest African American family organization in the United States, Jack and Jill of America celebrates a rich legacy of love, leadership, and giving.
Pittsburgh Chapter History The Pittsburgh Chapter was organized in 1944 as the fourth chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. and was at the heart of the development of a plan for the national organization and its incorporation in 1945. Among the organizers and earliest members of the Pittsburgh Chapter were: Marjorie Butler, President; Jewel Blow, Harriet Clowey, Lucille Cuthbert, Norine Cyrus, Helen Dougan, Betty Fitzgerald, Miriam Fountain, Ethel Ramos Harris, Gladys Harris, Marjorie Harris, Jereline Henry, Lilian Jackson, Vivian Jackson, Anne Jeffries, Zelma Johnson, Jessie Lou Jones, Ruth King, Fannie Knott, Winnie Nickens, Mary Norman, Helen Prattis, Martha Tally, Bernice Utterback and Mabel Waddy. Several Pittsburgh Chapter members have served as national officers: Mrs. Helen Prattis served as Secretary-Treasurer in 1948; Mrs. Vernice Wynn served as Secretary– Treasurer in 1950; and Mrs. Margaret Smith served as Vice-President in 1952-1954. In 1952, the Pittsburgh Chapter hosted the 7th Annual Convention of the National Organization and in 1987 the chapter hosted the 15th Eastern Regional Mother’s Conference, which had as its theme: “Strengthening the Black Family Through Improved Communications.” The Upper New York and Pennsylvania Mother’s Cluster was hosted by the Pittsburgh Chapter in October 1989. At the end of the meeting the chapter was cited for its organizational skills, hospitality and success incorporating community and retail resources. In 1991, the chapter received an award at the Regional Conference for its Jumoke Project community service, designed to increase the understanding of African cultures. Throughout its history, the Pittsburgh Chapter has addressed social concerns. One such project was “The Talking Typewriter,” co-sponsored with the University of Pittsburgh from 1969 to 1974. It was an automated instructional program designed to raise the skills of low-income preschoolers in language arts, foreign language and black history. In 1994, the Pittsburgh Chapter celebrated its 50th anniversary. In recognition of the occasion, the University of Pittsburgh collaborated with the chapter to honor 50 student achievers from Wilkinsburg High School at a luncheon highlighting the numerous higher education opportunities available to them. In addition to acknowledging the achievements of the individual students, the chapter donated a book series to the school library. In July 1998, the Eastern Regional Teen Conference, themed “Knowledge, Leadership and Service Yield Success” was held in Pittsburgh. More than 700 teens and adults attended, in addition, the Pops On Patrol, (father chaperones) was initiated. The following April, Kezia Ellison was elected Treasurer for the Eastern Region Teens. This was the first regional position for a Pittsburgh teen in the history of the chapter. Richard V. Burgess II was appointed as Eastern Regional Teen Chaplin and served 2004-05. Two years later, William B. Burgess was appointed Eastern Regional Teen Chaplin and con-
tinued his service in 2008-09 as Eastern Region Teen Vice President. Tevin Mickens was appointed as Eastern Region Legislative Chair in 2010-11 and served as Eastern Region Teen Vice President 2011-12. Other regional honors earned by the Pittsburgh Chapter teens include a 3rd place award to Katherine Patrick in the 2000 Regional Arts Competition and a 1st place award to the chapter for Best Scrapbook at the 2004 Teen Conference in Baltimore, MD. At the 2008 Teen Conference: Bret Allen was awarded 3rd place Teen Academic Award; Jocelyn Johnson was awarded 3rd place in Teen Community Service Competition, and our chapter placed 2nd in the Scrapbook Competition. Our teens made regional history in 2012 sweeping the competitions winning: 1st place in Apparel; 1st place in Display; 3rd place in Scrapbooking; 3rd place in Banner and Carrington Motley was awarded 1st place in the Senior Teen Academic Achievement. The Pittsburgh Chapter continues to make regional history adding to their awards at the 2013 Teen Conference by winning 3rd place for Display. Then in 2014 three teens came away from Teen Conference with academic awards; Corri Waters-Senior Teen Academic Award, Joel Macklin-Junior Teen Academic Award, and Ashlynn Thompson with the 10th Grade Academic Award. In 2015, we placed nationally for the foundation award. The chapter celebrated its 65th anniversary with a Hat Luncheon at the Omni William Penn on January 30, 2009. A short documentary film was commissioned in honor of the anniversary and premiered at the luncheon. An Associates Group was chartered for the 2010-11 program year. On January 25, 2014, the chapter hosted its 70th anniversary Luncheon and Fashion Show at the Fairmont Hotel to Commemorate our illustrious past, Celebrate our leaders and Cultivate the two as we look towards the future. Eastern Region MAL Danielle Brown was the distinguished guest speaker. The 17th biennial Presentation Ball was held on December 30, 2016, recognizing ten presentees. The special evening was highlighted with the genesis of the Presentation Ball by the founder and Legacy Chair, Judith M. Davenport, DMD. Dr. Davenport reflected on the creation and significance of the ball over 30 years ago in which ten teens were also presented. On January 28, 2018, the chapter celebrated its 74th Anniversary by hosting a Founder’s Day brunch with the theme “Mimosas and Memories,” both past and present members sharing cherished memories of their time in the Pittsburgh Chapter. This event served as the catalyst in preparation to celebrate the chapter’s 75th anniversary in the spring of 2019. In the Fall of 2018, the chapter’s first annual teen retreat was held in Cranberry Township and the teen group satisfied all of its financial and leadership modules in preparation for the Eastern Region Teen Conference. Also, during that Fall, ball presentee, Tyler Hill, participated in the oratorical competition at the 2018 Workday Cluster. The chapter held its 19th biennial Presentation Ball on Saturday, December 29, 2018 at the Omni William Penn Hotel where 3 seniors and 7 junior high school students were honored for their academic, extra-curricular, and civic achievements with the theme “Honoring Our Tradition While Building Our Legacy.” The charitable beneficiaries were the Homewood Children’s Village and our national Jack and Jill Foundation.
In January 2019, the chapter reinstituted its Gavel Club, which promotes networking, leadership and oratory skills for our chapter youth beginning at age. Since 2019, participation in the Gavel Club has grown immensely and has proven to help our youth develop self-confidence and personal growth. The chapter celebrated its 75th anniversary during the weekend of August 28, 2019. The weekend began with a happy hour event at Terrace on Fifth in downtown Pittsburgh, welcoming fellowship between former and current Jack and Jill members and their spouses. On Saturday, a family picnic was held at Blueberry Hill Park in Sewickley, PA, where the highlight of the day was a basketball game between the chapter teens and dads. On Sunday, the chapter worshipped at Mt. Ararat Baptist Church and presented the church and its non-profit subsidiary, Mt. Ararat Community Activity Center (MACAC), with a lending book library to be installed on the grounds of the MACAC in the East Liberty community of Pittsburgh. The anniversary weekend ended with a luncheon at the LeMont Restaurant in Mt. Washington where children and teens members showcased chapter clothing from the past and present, and a short documentary celebrating the chapter’s rich history was highlighted. With the chapter’s leadership in full tow, the luncheon was befitting of our chapter’s legacy of excellence. While COVID-19 limited the chapter’s ability to conduct in-person programming, we have continued our mission of service by providing care packages for the residents of the Homewood House, sponsoring a food drive for Jeremiah’s Place producing over 100 tote bags of food, providing holiday gifts and gift cards for children in foster care, participating in food distribution at the Greater Pittsburgh Food Bank and fundraising to benefit Autism Speaks. During the summer of 2020, the chapter teens attended a rally for racial justice in Fox Chapel that featured two recent Jack and Jill graduates, William Generett III and Warner Macklin IV. The teens also hosted their own peacefully rally in Sewickley where they unapologetically expressed their views and passions about racial justice and equality. In the Fall of 2020, two of our chapter teens, Torey Bullock, Jr. and Tiffany Gathers competed in the 2020 Eastern Region oratorical contest. The Pittsburgh Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., has been involved in various community projects over the years that included monetary gifts, donations and volunteer services to Afro-American Music Institute, American Cancer Society, August Wilson Center for African American Culture, Bethesda Community Food Bank, Bethlehem Haven, Church of the Holy Cross’ Black College Tour, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh-Homewood Branch, Gateway Medical Society’s Journey to Medicine, Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank, Healthy Start Inc., Hill District YMCA, Jubilee Soup Kitchen, Kingsley Center, Lemington Home for the Aged, Mel Blount Youth Home, Negro Emergency Education Drive (NEED), Neighborhood Academy, Northside Christian Center, Ozanam Community Center, Sickle Cell Anemia, Three Rivers Adoption Agency, United Negro College Fund, Womanspace East, and the Jack and Jill Foundation.
Salute to Past Presidents The Pittsburgh Chapter salutes these past presidents who have guided the Chapter to prominence: 2019-2021 2015-2019 2011-2015 2009-2011 2007-2009 2005-2007 2003-2005 2001-2003 1999-2001 1997-1999 1995-1997 1993-1995 1991-1993 1989-1991 1988-1989 1986-1988 1984-1986 1982-1984 1980-1982
Mrs. Bridgette Cofield Mrs. Alexis James Steals Mrs. Carlotta Burgess Mrs. Velvet Mickens Mrs. Marcia Roque Mrs. Martha Vasser Mrs. Sharon Sales Mrs. Iris Hayes Mrs. Carol Neyland Mrs. Carmen Anderson Mrs. Nichole Gaines Mrs. Peggy Harris Mrs. Lyn Hamlin Mrs. Imogene Hines Mrs. Patricia Wright Mrs. Ann Haley Dr. Mona Generett Dr. Judith Davenport Mrs. Margo Flood
1978-1980 1976-1978 1974-1976 1972-1974 1968-1969 1966-1967 1963-1964 1961-1962 1960-1960 1957-1960 1956-1956 1955-1955 1954-1954 1952-1954 1950-1952 1949-1949 1948-1948 1946-1948 1944-1946
Mrs. Florence Young Mrs. Sylvia Robinson Mrs. Yvonne Horne Mrs. Elizabeth Harper Audrey Gaines Mary Jane Page Barbara Allen Jayne Freeland Billie Goode Jessie Lou Jones Mildred Keith Aileen Sawyer Alberta Williams Norine Cyrus Mary Normans Louis Abels Helen Prattis Winnie Nickens Marjorie Butler
Distinguished Mothers Recognition Additionally, we would like to recognize those members who have been honored as Distinguished Mothers within both our Chapter and Region: 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005
Mrs. Kimberly Moses, J.D. Dr. Gretchen Givens Generett Mrs. Denise Smalley Dr. Tammy Miles Brown Mrs. Rae Reynolds Fussell Dr. Charena Swann Mrs. Alexis James Steals Mrs. Janine Frazier Macklin Ms. RaShall M. Brackney Mrs. Branita Mann Dr. Rhonda Johnson Mrs. Edwina Kaikai Mrs. Carlotta K. Burgess Ms. Lynne Hayes-Freeland Mrs. Marsha Thomas Mrs. Diane Stotts
2004 2003 2002 2001 2000 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 1991 1990
Mrs. Iris Hayes Mrs. Pam Young Mrs. Judith Patrick Mrs. Dorothy White Mrs. Carmen Anderson Mrs. Drena Williams Mrs. Nicole Gaines Mrs. Albertha Graham Mrs. Sarah McDaniel Dr. Cynthia Ayers Mrs. Winifred Torbert Mrs. Imogene Hines Mrs. Lyn Hamlin Mrs. Joelynn Parham Mrs. Susie Richardson
The Genesis of the Presentation Ball… a remembrance by Judith M. Davenport, D.M.D.
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hirty-seven years ago in 1981, my daughter Allison, was a senior at The Ellis School. During the spring of her junior year all her friends were talking about the upcoming
Cinderella Ball in December. Allison’s name along with several of her classmates names were submitted, all but Allison were invited to participate. She was devastated. When she was not selected I suggested that maybe we could have our own ball and told her that her Aunt and I had been debutantes in the Alpha Kappa Alpha Cotillion in the 50’s. That didn’t help her but it gave me an idea. I called several Jack and Jill friends with children the same age and we met informally to discuss a ball. We spent that summer making plans. At the time, I was President of the Pittsburgh Chapter of Jack and Jill and suggested that Jack and Jill sponsor a ball. We brought the idea to the Chapter and after some discussion it was voted to have a ball in December of 1982, but to include young women and men. We asked the parents of young men and women in our chapter in 11th and 12th grade if they would like their children to participate. We had ten participants, five young ladies and five young men. The parents and the young men and women were very excited about the idea. We planned our first ball for December 30, 1982 at the University Club and called it “A Presentation Ball”. The proceeds benefited NEED (The Negro Emergency Education Fund Drive). The theme was “We’ve Only Just Begun”. The first Presentation Ball was spectacular with the young ladies in floor length white gowns and the young men in white tie and tails. It was so well received and generated such great press that the Chapter voted to make it official and have it every other year. It was only after word of our Presentation Ball got out that I learned that The Medallion Ball was started for similar reasons and both are continuing today.
Past Presentation
Ball Chairs 2018 2016 2014 2012 2011 2008 2006 2004 2002 2000 1998 1996 1994 1992 1990 1988 1986 1984 1982
Dr. Holly Hatcher Frazier and Dr. Gretchen Givens Generett Ms. Janis Burley and Dr. Tammy Miles Brown Dr. Charena Swann and Mrs. Janine Frazier Macklin Mrs.Velvet V. Mickens Mrs. Branita Mann and Dr. Darlene Motley Mrs. Carlotta Burgess and Mrs. Karla Byrd Mrs. Ruthie King Mrs. Darryl Williams and Mrs. Marcia Martin Mrs. Karla Byrd and Mrs. Sharon Sales Mrs. Carmen Anderson Dr. Mona N. Generett Mrs. Matrid Harper Mrs. Nicole Gaines Mrs. Winifred Torbert Mrs. Linda Tardy Wilson Dr. Cynthia G. Ayers Mrs. Ida McTurner Johnson Dr. Judith Davenport Mrs. Elizabeth Harper
Our Legacy The Pittsburgh Chapter proudly salutes over two hundred teenagers who have been presented since the ball’s inception in 1982. Their dedication to community service, academic excellence, and career advancement is testimony to the preparation necessary to their introduction to society. May they continue to serve as role models to our current Jack and Jill youth members and young adults nationwide. Best wishes in your future endeavors. The Families of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated Pittsburgh Chapter
“Biennial Presentation Ball” 1982 – 2018
1982 PRESENTEES Brian Whitfield Bates Michelle Cecilia Caines Brenda Anne Dailey Judith Allison Davenport Brian Robert Debow Leon Leroy Haley, Jr. Laura Ligaya Howard Edward Joseph James Warrington Samuel Parker Rosalyn Denise Vasser 1984 PRESENTEES Geoffrey Taylor Anderson Stephen Jeffrey Bates Diana Lynne Burley Angela Marie Caines Susan Ross Davenport Isaac Norton Rendall Harper III Tara Elizabeth Harper Robert Alexander James Dallas Alexander Lea II Shanga Kyle Parker Lara Ellen Washington 1986 PRESENTEES Mark David Anderson Douglas Ako Eugene Davis Jamieon Aaron Debow Vaughn Debow
Maria Renee Dickerson Ralph Dickerson III Lisa Roseanne Haley Loren Jon Haley Thomas William Hector, Jr. Erick Christopher Holt Jennifer Clair Jackson Carolyn Rebecca Johnson Raymond Phillip McDougald, Jr. Monique Lynette Parker Todd Wray Richardson Luther Joseph Sewell III Vesta Adrienne Wilds
Brian Marshall Roberts Lela Johnson Sewell Morris Edward Turner, Jr. Lauren Michelle Walton Ursula Monique White George Anthony Wright Kirsten Elaine Wright
1988 PRESENTEES Keisha Nicole Abraham Kimberly Cynthia Ayers Thomas Martin Bigelow Ernest Davis Brown Heather Luise Burwell Marcia Aliza Chaumette Lia Beth Epperson William Osborne Generett, Jr. Michael Moorman Goode Erika Leeanna Gordon Erinn Rosa Gordon Maria Kay McDaniel Anne Marie McDougald Paula Joyce Nelson James Stanley Parham, Jr.
1992 PRESENTEES Candice Asenath Curry Dia Lesharon Davis Arnold Lee Dukes, Jr. Troy Michael Flint James Solomon Galloway John English Galloway Edward Frederick Gordon Brian David Hamlin Charles Allen Harper III Alexandra Elaine McGinnis Hector Sakena Jwan Patterson Tamara Marie Saunders Jonathan Duane Turner Derrick Lamont Turner
1990 PRESENTEES Robin Lynn Burley Erika Ann Guthrie Tara Patricia Hines Bethany Patrice Jackson
1994 PRESENTEES Byron Spencer Ayers Carl Jarrett Brown Candice Lyn Harris Kimberly Nicole Hector Kisha Angel Hortman LaMar Jonathan Hortman Linsey Colleen McDaniel Sheila Denise Parham Tamara Veronica Torbert Aaron David Walton Tekiesha Elaine Williams Jimil Booker Wilson 1996 PRESENTEES Adrian Jamil Allen Alicia Janelle Allen John Emery Brewer Dalila Aziza Byrd Ricco Garard Davis, Jr. Michael Oliver Dukes Edmunson David Effort Diana Alexia Hector Nedra Catherine Jordan Richard Ryan Mitchell Chentis Reese Pettigrew III Charmaine Marilyn Young 1998 PRESENTEES Cameron Spencer Anderson Britton Douglas Davis April Elaine Effort George Ryin Gaines Brooke Nicole Generett Lason Chelsea Greenwood Flo Juane Christina Griffin Lindsay Lauren Hamlin Goldwyn Bertrand Harper, Jr. Miles Christopher Hines Kristopher Gilbert Hortman Deen Nashanti E. King-Smith Gaeton Lorenz Pettigrew Dilana Christine Pickett Calvin Manford Sales III Stacey Lynn White Ben Allen Williams III Regina Carrie Wilson 2000 PRESENTEES Garrett Bradley Anderson Garrett Forrester Charity, Jr. Kezia Lynette Ellison Adrienne Cynthia Hill Byron Neal Jordan II Angela Nicole Lott Ashley Erin Mitchell Lindsey Wallis Neyland Katherine Rosalee Patrick Frank Lewis Torbert III Michelle Roberta Watson Marcus James White Adam Watson Young Elyse Grace Young
2002 PRESENTEES Daile Jamara Flurry Julia Nadine Gaines Kristin Heather Hayes Christina Michelle Hines Adrianne Renee Holmes William John-Lloyd King Erica Ashley Moody Justine Ada-Marie Patrick Erica Michelle Pickett Catrice Michelle Sales Edward Stotts III Alicia Nicole Thomas Larry O’Nell Wright II 2004 PRESENTEES John D. Kemp Burgess Richard Van Burgess II Eric Michael Charity Kristen Alexis Freeland Michael Wendell Freeland, Jr. Rosalynn Imani Johnson Deondre Len Martin Monifa Greer Martin Gregory Brandon Patrick, Jr. MacKenzie Allen Stotts Joseph Landry Young 2006 PRESENTEES Jasmine Marie Anderson Sarah Elizabeth Barnes Robert Daniel Bennett, Jr. Antwan White Carter Louis William Finley Lindsay Victoria Hayes Blayre Lyn Holmes Jocelyn Anita Johnson Edward Maya Kaikai Amanda Dian King Morgan Kristina Moody Theodore Redie Vasser IV Eric Charles Yanders Brett David Young John James Wilbert Young 2008 PRESENTEES Brett Martin Allen Alonzo James Anderson, Jr. William Bouvard Burgess Catherine Thelma Byrd Charlotte Ann Clark Jettie Brianne Fields Cicely Hawa Kaikai Derek Loren Kelly Renee Chantal Motley Joseph Leroy Patrick Lauren Renee Thomas Helena Leah Vasser Joseph Douglas Williams Caleb Thurgood Wilson
2011 PRESENTEES Alexis Renee Aiken Camara Nicole Copeland Camden Melissa Copeland Amani Ali Davis Rikki Lynn Griffin Brandi Michelle Henderson Erica Jordan Mann D. Carrington Motley David Nathanael Nicholson Nicole Marie Roque Catherine Liana Waters 2012 PRESENTEES Forrest Alexander Barnes Olivia Rose Barnes Teran Michelle Mickens Tevin Michael Mickens Rikki LiNae Murphy Shafer Dean Swann Kielah Agnes Turner Corri Lynn Waters 2014 PRESENTEES Dorian Jamal Anderson Ashley Michele Bridges Candace Nicole Burgess Dawson Lee Davis Darrien Renee Hopkins Wesley Alan Johnson Joel P. Macklin Madison Nicole Morrissey L. Braxton Swann Madison Danielle Taylor Ashlynn Ella Thompson Madison McKenzie Ware Margaux Blair Wilson Martha Elise Yanders 2016 PRESENTEES Curtis Aiken, Jr. Michael Clyde Bridges Taylor Janet Brown Katherine Ermintrude Davenport Evan Scott Frazier, Jr. Samantha Josephine Graves McKenzie Noel Morrissey Kendall Milton Thomas Kennedy Alexis Wilson Liza Blair Wilson 2018 PRESENTEES Nia Sioux Frazier William Osborne Generett III Warner Nelson Macklin IV Thurgood Hamilton Moses Jayce Krystapher Sledge Soleil Andreas Smith Sarah Elizabeth Swift Tanner Nathan Thomas Zamar Jamelle Ushery Kennedi Alexis Wade
Future Presentees Delany Darlings
(Preschool Age) Havana Jordan Harrison Jordan
Cameron Fischer
Adyn Reese
Curious Crawfords (K-2nd Grade)
Kira Bolding Elijah Capel Vaughan Crawley
Londyn Daniel Ally Reese Storm Roach
Reagan Rushing Campbell Scott Julian Brooks
Zoe Ushery
Steel Curtain Kids (3rd-5th Grade)
William Brown Walker Brown Christopher King Olivia Brooks Brayden Cofield
Brandon Criswell Kalel Daniel Richard ‘Trey” Fann Savanna Jordan Ana Rideau
Daniel Smalley Donovan Smalley Drew Steals Tyler Temple Ezra Teter
Taylor Hollins Tyler Hollins
Talented Turrentines (6th-8th Grade) Tiffany Gathers Donovan Hopkins Gabrielle Generett Elijah Bullock Rachel Grant Carson Scott Mason Greene Zoi Sledge Logan Greene Shelby Steverson Jasmine Hollins Naomi Teter Drew Elise Hopkins Sydney Capel
Micah Allen Cameron Capel Xavier Crawley Roland Criswell Evan Dozier Charles Fischer IV Mausar Meri Black
Landis Smith Olivia Jordan Lucien Miller Sanaa Brown
Captains of Industry Evan Ware Lindsey Washington Harrison Cauthen Kaleo Rodriguez Akhu Black William Frazier Gabrielle Gathers
(9th-12th Grade) Dailyn Hopkins Alexandria Roach Torey Bullock Jr. Maya Roberts Noah Jordan Amari Smith Malcolm Jordan Alanna Steals Ja’mier Coffey Tyler Hill Steverson Quincy McCormick Aiden Suzensky Langston Moses Cameron Suzensky
Evangeline Teter Morris Turner III Joshua Wade Jalen Hollins
Captains of Industry
Our Current and Next Class of Ball Presentees (9th-12th grade)
August 1, 2020 Teen Lead Social Action Rally
September 12, 2020, One Day Teen Retreat Module Training and Community Service
November 8, 2020, Afternoon of Art with Teen Entrepreneur Guest Speaker, Caleb Hibbert
December 19, 2020, Teens Baked Cookies to donate to Light of Life Rescue Mission during their virtual Holiday Party
April 2021 Teens Interviewed five female Black candidates running for Common Pleas Court
2021 Teen Conference Scrapbook Submission (Front Page)
2021 Teen Conference Apparel Contest Submission
Club Level Sponsors GOLD CLUB PNC TriState Capital Bank University of Pittsburgh UPMC SILVER CLUB AHRCO Clark Hill Highmark K & L Gates PLUS Real Estate Sewickley Academy WilmerHale BRONZE CLUB Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity (AOL Chapter) Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority BeBe Lee Beauty Lounge Cofield & Associates, LLC Cozen O’Conner Ernst & Young Frazier 5 Unlimited, LLC Gateway Health Jack & Jill Associates The James Family Links / Jack & Jill Pittsburgh Chapter Families McGuireWoods Pittsburgh Penguins Pittsburgh Theological Seminary Raise Your Spirits The Steals Family Special thanks to the Omni William Penn Hotel for generous in-kind support.
Congratulations to the Jack and Jill Pittsburgh Chapter on the 20th Anniversary of the Presentation Ball and Congrats to Will Frazier and all the 2021 presentees. www.gatewayhealthplan.com
Patrons Jennifer Woodward Marlene Gary Hogan Salina Dingle Rose Perdue Jerome & Sharon Morris Ross & Lisa Owens Glenda Mayo Debbie Trammel Dr. Tinnemeyer The Kennedy Family Linda Lorenz & Family The Scott FamilyDonnell, Christina, Carson and Campbell The Latimore FamilyMartin, Stephanie, Brianne, Brendan and Braelyn Heather Friberger David M. Huston & Sons Casa Dolce Spa
A Celebration of Legacy, Purpose, and Resilience
Thank You!
The 2021 presentees would like to thank everyone for your generous support, in-kind contributions, and hard work to make our experience a success, and one we will never forget. We especially want to thank our parents, for everything.
Jack and Jill of America, Inc. is a membership organization of mothers with children ages 2-19, dedicated to nurturing future African American leaders by strengthening children through leadership development, volunteer service, philanthropic giving and civic duty.