Leadership Summit in Houston Texas December 5 - 7, 2024
VOLUME I | ISSUE 2
MESSAGE from THE EDITOR
Being a mentor with 100 Black Men of America, Inc., has been one of the most fulfilling and rewarding experiences of my life. The organization’s mission to empower and uplift African American youth resonates deeply with me, and I am proud to be part of a movement dedicated to making a lasting impact on future generations. This sense of pride and fulfillment is something I wish for everyone to experience.
What I enjoy most about being a mentor is the opportunity to make a direct difference in the lives of young people. As a mentor, I can serve as a positive role model, providing guidance, support, and encouragement to youth who may not always have access to the resources or opportunities they need to succeed. It is a joy to witness their growth in confidence, development of skills, and the realization of their potential. This joy is something that fills me with hope and optimism for the future.
Mentoring with 100 Black Men of America, Inc. also allows me to build meaningful, lasting relationships with the young people I work with. These connections often extend beyond formal mentorship sessions and evolve into authentic friendships. It’s not just about giving advice or providing direction—it’s about listening, understanding, and being a consistent source of support in their lives.
The organization also offers a strong network of like-minded mentors passionate about creating positive change. This community of mentors and leaders is not just a group, but a family that provides a sense of solidarity and camaraderie. It’s this sense of belonging that makes me feel connected and part of a larger movement, and I believe it’s something that everyone can benefit from.
Ultimately, mentoring with 100 Black Men of America, Inc. has been a transformative experience. It’s a powerful reminder of the importance of giving back and the incredible potential that lies within every young person. It has changed the way I view the world and my role in it, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of this journey.
James W. Wade III Editor
MILTON H. JONES JR.
“Danielle Kennedy Jones Appointed to Lead National Headquarters as Executive Officer”
The 100 Black Men of America, Inc. is proud to announce the appointment of Danielle Kennedy Jones as its new Executive Officer. This decision, endorsed by National Chairman Milton H. Jones Jr. and the 100 Black Men of America, Inc. Board, marks a significant milestone in our organization’s leadership.
Bringing a wealth of experience and an entrepreneurial spirit, Danielle Kennedy-Jones steps into the role of Executive Officer at 100 Black Men of America, Inc. Her most recent role as Managing Consultant for Kennedy Jones Solutions Group, a minority woman-owned strategic solutions firm, involvedinvolved hersaw her providing strategic consulting to higher education, nonprofits, and minority and small businesses. Notably, ninety percent of her clients were organizations or individuals she had previously worked with or for, including 100 Black Men of America Inc. as its Development Consultant. She also served as Interim Executive Director for HBCU Cares, a consortium of Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Danielle spent the majority of her career in higher education, having served in various capacities at her alma mater, Alabama State University, including as a faculty member, Director of Admissions and Recruitment, and last as Vice President of University Relations. She also served as Associate Vice President
at Florida A&M University. Later in her career, Danielle served as Sr. Vice President for Development for 100 Black Men of America, Inc., leading development and events operations. She is proud to have cultivated and maintained relationships that led to the generation of funds that positively impacted the bottom line for the organizations she has served.
Danielle consistently channels her talents to support and lead community organizations.
A proud member of St. Philip AME Church in Atlanta, Georgia, she has served as a Class Leader and works with the Women’s Ministry to serve the homeless. Her involvement extends to Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Junior League of Gwinnett and North Fulton(Georgia), National Council of Negro Woman, Alabama State University National Alumni Association, and National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals. She volunteers with the Diabetes Association of Atlanta and the National Black
College Alumni Hall of Fame. Her past roles include serving as Montgomery Chapter President and SE Regional Secretary-Treasurer for Jack and Jill of America, Inc.
“We are very pleased and fortunate to have Ms. Danielle Kennedy Jones agree to serve in this important role at this important time in our organization”, said Chairman Milton H. Jones Jr. He added “she brings a wealth of important and beneficial leadership skills, experience and strategic relationships that will be significantly helpful to The 100 Black Men of America Inc. and its chapters as we continue to grow and execute our Strategic Plan”.
Danielle’s dedication and leadership have been recognized with numerous awards, including the Fulton County, Georgia My Brother’s Keeper Volunteer of the Year Award, NAFEO Distinguished Alumni Award, and the Alabama State University 50 Under Fifty Alumni Award. She has also been honored with the ASU Board of Trustees Distinguished Service Awards, ASU Chairman’s Giving Award, and was named Woman of the Year by her former church – Old Ship AME Zion (Montgomery, Alabama). Her peers selected her as the 2023 Planner of the Year by the National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals, a testament to her outstanding contributions to the community.
Danielle is not only a dedicated professional but also a loving wife and mother. She is married to her husband and partner, Gil Jones, and is the proud mother of two adult sons, Horace Lamar, III, and Kennedy Lamar. She is also a doting grandmother to her forever baby, Horace, IV. Her family is a source of strength and inspiration in her life and career.
100 Black Men of America, Inc. Welcomes Jimmy Jones to the National Headquarters Staff
The National Headquarters is experiencing exciting growth, marking a significant milestone in its expansion efforts. Recently, the organization welcomed Jimmy Jones as the Senior Director of Chapter and Member Services. With his extensive experience in membership engagement and chapter management, Jimmy is poised to play a vital role in strengthening relationships with existing members and building new connections across the organization’s network.
This growing team will provide chapters with more resources, training, and personalized assistance, ensuring they have the tools to succeed and foster community engagement. By expanding the staff, the organization aims to improve its service offerings, streamline communication, and enhance the member experience, all of which are central to the continued success and growth of the national network.
With these strategic additions, the National Headquarters is well-equipped to meet the evolving needs of its chapters and members, driving further impact and advancing the organization’s mission on a national scale. This is an exciting time, as the added capacity and leadership will pave the way for new initiatives and strengthened partnerships nationwide.
Jimmy Jones is honored to join this prestigious organization as the new Senior Director of Chapter and Member Services. With several years of experience in community reentry and criminal justice reform, he is excited to contribute to our shared mission of empowering African American communities. “As a Regional Vice President of a non–profit, I’ve overseen operations across multiple states, managing residential reentry centers that have positively impacted thousands of lives. My work has focused on bridging the gap between incarceration and successful community
reintegration, aligning closely with our organization’s mentoring and empowerment goals. I am particularly eager to contribute to our core focus areas. I believe we can create a comprehensive approach to empowering our communities. Our organization is uniquely positioned to impact these areas significantly, and I’m committed to leveraging my experience and networks to further our mission,” said Jones.
Jimmy shared his vision for the organization and what he plans to achieve in his new role as the Senior Director of Chapter and Member Services.
Mentoring:
As a leader in community reentry, I’ve witnessed the profound and transformative power of mentorship. In my roles, I’ve implemented and overseen mentoring programs that pair successful community members with individuals transitioning back into society. These programs have significantly reduced recidivism rates and instilled hope and a sense of purpose in the participants’ lives. I believe the 100 Black Men of America’s focus on mentoring aligns perfectly with this experience, and I’m eager to contribute to and enhance our mentoring initiatives.
Education:
Education has been a cornerstone of my approach to community development and holds the key to a brighter future for our communities. In my operational overview, we’ve prioritized educational programs, from GED preparation to vocational training. I’ve also worked closely with local schools and universities to create pathways for continued learning. My academic journey, culminating in an MBA, has reinforced my belief in the power of education to open doors and change lives. I’m excited about the possibilities and
am eager to explore how we can expand educational opportunities for African American youth and adults through our organization.
Health and Wellness:
Health and wellness have been key focus areas in my work, reflecting our deep concern for the well-being of African American communities. I’ve developed initiatives centered around HIV/ AIDS awareness, cancer prevention, and overall wellness education. In 2020, I led a corporate COVID-19 initiative to dispel myths about COVID-19 vaccination in BIPOC communities. This experience in health advocacy and education could be valuable as we work to promote health and wellness within the communities we serve. Our commitment to health and wellness is a testament to our care and value for each individual in our community.
Economic Empowerment:
Throughout my career, I’ve focused on holistic development - not just of individuals but of entire communities. This has involved creating comprehensive programs that address various aspects of personal growth, from job skills training to leadership development. I’ve initiated programs targeting youth development, recognizing that investing in our young people is crucial for long-term community success. I’m excited about bringing this developmental approach to our work at the 100.
“As the new Senior Director of Chapter and Member Services, I’m thrilled to join this esteemed organization. I want to emphasize two critical areas at our mission’s heart, and I look forward to working with each of you to bring these to fruition,” said Jones
Jimmy wants to instill effective communication, which is vital for our organization’s success. It enables us to: Share best practices across Chapters Amplify our message to the broader community Engage with youth and potential mentees more effectively. Coordinate our efforts for maximum impact
Attract new members and supporters
Jimmy believes that by enhancing our communication strategies, we can strengthen our internal bonds and extend our reach, ultimately serving our community better.
Mentoring:
The mentoring program is the cornerstone of 100 Black Men of America. Its importance cannot be overstated:
It provides positive role models for young African American males It helps break cycles of poverty and underachievement
Encourages educational excellence and career aspirations Builds self-esteem and confidence in our mentees
Creates a ripple effect, inspiring mentees to become future mentors
The impact of our mentoring efforts extends far beyond individual relationships. It strengthens families, improves communities, and contributes to a more equitable society.
A new generation of leaders committed to giving back. Reduced rates of crime and incarceration through mentoring our youth By working together, leveraging data, embracing technology, and fostering synergy among our teams, we can amplify these effects and create lasting change.
“I’m eager to work with all of you to enhance our communication strategies and strengthen our mentoring programs. I want to take this opportunity to express my gratitude for your past contributions to the organization. Together, we can make a profound difference in the lives of countless individuals and communities,” said Jones.
The 2024-2025 National Packets Are Now Available!!!
The 2024 - 2025 National Packets are available for dissemination to your membership. The packets include the 2024-2025 Programs Packet, 39th Annual Conference T-Shirt Competition, National and Law School Scholarship Opportunities along with the 20242025 Checklist of all upcoming deadlines.
If you have not received the packet, please contact the Headquarters Programs team at programs@100bmoa.org or call 404.688-5100 and ask for Lei O'Neal or Destiny Caldwell.
The 2024-2025 Programs Packet Contains:
2024-2025 Wells Fargo Hands on Banking Grant
2025-2025 Wells Fargo Junior Investment Grant
2024-2025 NextEra STEM Activation Grant
2024-2025 NFL and Coca-Cola Leadership and Career Institute Grant
2025 Dollars and $ense Youth Investment Grant
2025 Brace B. Godfrey, Jr. African American History Challenge Packet
2025 National Flight Academy (NFA)
39th Annual Conference T-Shirt Competition
2025-2026 National Scholarship 2025 Law School Interest Forms
National Grant Program Proposal Template
Have Questions? If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact the National Headquarters Programs and Grants Team at programs@100bmoa.org.
2024 Leadership Summit Coming to
Houston Texas, December 4 - 7, 2024
BUSINESS SUMMIT FLYER
“38th Annual Conference in Atlanta Was A Success, Featuring Vice President Kamala Harris”
This past June, the 100 Black Men of America, Inc. concluded its 38th Annual Conference in Atlanta, GA. This significant event featured a distinguished lineup of speakers and moderators, including a visit by United States Vice President Kamala Harris. The theme, ‘Future Proofing Our Youth, Members, and Communities, ‘was carefully chosen to emphasize the crucial role of preparing our youth, members, and communities for the challenges and opportunities of the future, ensuring that everyone is well-informed and involved in our collective journey.
“We just concluded a successful 100 Black Men of America, Inc. 38th Annual Conference in Atlanta, GA. Throughout this year’s Conference, a high level of energy was clearly evident in our large sessions and workshops that helped us elevate to a new level. I appreciate all who met us in Atlanta, GA, for this great conference,” said Milton H. Jones Jr., National Chairman of the 100 Black Men of America, Inc.
The conference sessions covered various topics such as health and wellness, education, civic engagement, economic empowerment, and more, ensuring a comprehensive and engaging experience for all. Friday afternoon, United States Vice-President Kamala Harris spent about 45 minutes explaining how Joe Biden has impacted the lives of Black people. She rattled off a list of financial facts supporting her claim that touched on more than 25 separate topics.
Author, comedian, and entertainer Steve Harvey was on stage with her during a particular segment of the organization’s annual Friday conference luncheon. The question-andanswer session occurred in front of a standingroom-only audience. VP Harris came to the Conference as part of her Nationwide Economic Opportunity Tour, a series of events promoting economic opportunities for all Americans. ‘It’s about giving people the opportunity to compete, to allow hardworking individuals not just to get by, but to get ahead,’ said Vice President Kamala Harris.
The 38th annual convention had a few other celebrities stop by, such as Actress/comedian Tiffany Haddish, Monica Pearson, John Hope Bryant, Judge Glenda Hatchett, American TV Personality and Sunny Hostin, Co-Host, The VIEW & Senior Legal Correspondent and Analyst, ABC News are scheduled to be in attendance. The Mayor of Atlanta, GA, was there, and Ambassador Andrew Young. Attendees benefited from the 100’s unique and innovative mentoring program that allows the organization to tap a deep well of presenters covering Baby Boomers, Millennials, Gen Y, and Gen Z. This program has had a significant impact on the personal and professional development of our members and youth, fostering a sense of community and empowerment. Plenary sessions and evening events provide opportunities to spotlight community and corporate partners that support the 100’s education and scholarship efforts. A holistic approach to member, youth, and community health has been a long-standing priority of the 100. In the mornings, to get the day going, you had wellness sessions and early morning activities, including yoga, tai chi, devotion, fitness, and a serenity experience.
“Honored to have attended the 38th Annual Conference hosted by the 100 Black Men of America, Inc. Connecting with many amazing leaders and like-minded individuals was truly inspiring. This year’s theme, “Future-Proofing, Our Youth, Members, and Communities,” hit home with powerful sessions that deepened our commitment to mentoring and leadership. The sense of brotherhood and the wealth of knowledge shared made it an unforgettable experience,” said Mayor Andre Dickens, Mayor of Atlanta.
The 38th Annual Conference was a resounding success, marking an inspiring journey we can all be proud of. The Youth Breakfast, a personal favorite, was a testament to the dedication of our youth, who took center stage and shone brightly. Each year, the presence of youth at their Youth Breakfast, where they give
electrifying performances, leaving all with a sense of pride and accomplishment to see their various talents.
The Conference provided men and women with something special: the Barbershop Forum. The panel discussion, inspired by the book “The Invisible Ache,” co-authored by Courtney Vance and Dr. Robin Smith, highlights the importance of authenticity, emotional evolution, and integrity in addressing mental health challenges in the Black community. Panelists will share powerful narratives and strategies to foster candid conversations about acknowledging, honoring, and managing feelings. The discussion aims to break down stigmas and barriers to mental health support by emphasizing the significance of speaking one’s truth and learning from mistakes. By centering the voices of Black individuals, the dialogue seeks to raise awareness and advocate
for mental health equity, offering pathways to healing and empowerment.
The focus on the youth is remarkable; one of the longest-running youth competitions is uniquely a part of the 100 Black Men of America conference tradition.
BRACE GODFREY JR. AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY CHALLENGE
Brace Godfrey, Jr.’s name is linked to one of the most anticipated student competitions associated with the 100 Black Men of America because he started the African American history challenge. Mentees from all over the country showcase their knowledge about Black culture and accomplishments by competing in June.
Brace B. Godfrey, Jr. could never have predicted that attacks against Black history knowledge
would continue more than twenty years into the 21st century. Yet, he did know something many have come to embrace as a universal truth: that a culture that doesn’t remember its history will perish. Brace Godfrey, Jr. passed away in 2010, but his legacy continues through the Baton Rouge chapter he founded and the competition that bears his name.
Prelims for this year’s challenge took Place on Thursday, and finalists squared off Friday evening. THE WINNERS ARE: 2024 BRACE B. GODFREY JR, AFRICAN AMERICA HISTORY CHALLENGE YOUTH COMPETITION
Junior Division
1st Place –
Metro Baton Rouge, Louisiana 2nd Place –Savannah Georgia
Senior Division
1st Place–
Western Pennsylvania 2nd Place –
Metro Baton Rouge, Louisiana
THE WELLS FARGO NATIONAL JUNIOR INVESTMENT COMPETITION
Another competition that generates a lot of excitement among participants is the Wells Fargo National Junior Investment Competition. This challenge aims to help young people understand how the stock market and investment planning work. Five finalist teams competed for a chance to win monetary prizes. The competition was open to students and took Place late Thursday afternoon.
Last year, Wells Fargo rewarded the finalists from the top three teams by flying them to New York City. They had three days of memorable experiences and a chance to visit the New York Stock Exchange floor.
Below are the winners for 2024.
WELLS
FARGO JUNIOR INVESTMENT COMPETITION: 1st Place –Long Beach, California 2nd Place –Madison, Wisconsin 3rd Place –Las Vegas, Nevada
STATE FARM YOUTH DOLLARS & $ENSE COMPETITION
The State Farm Youth Dollars & Sense Competition is another student financial literacy opportunity. On Friday afternoon, students showcased their financial literacy skills for one hour and fifteen minutes. This program was designed to allow high school students, grades 9 through 12, to learn and apply best practices for saving and investing.
2024 STATE FARM DOLLARS & $ENSE YOUTH COMPETITION:
1st Place –Indianapolis, Indiana 2nd Place –
South Metro Atlanta, Georgia 3rd Place –Madison, Wisconsin
COLLEGIATE 100 LEADERSHIP AND CAREER INSTITUTE COMPETITION
The Collegiate 100 chapter on the campus of Lamar University in Beaumont, TX, won the “Collegiate 100 Leadership and Career Institute Competition.
Students from the chapter delivered the “wow factor” to an audience of peers and adults with a powerful presentation on their chapter’s voting initiatives. Below is a list of the top three contenders.
1st Place –
Lamar University – Beaumont, Texas 2nd Place –
University of South Alabama - Greater Mobile 3rd Place –
Southern University - Metro Baton Rouge, Louisiana
All four competitions did more than award prizes and cash. They allowed each student who participated to take time to develop life skills that would aid them in the future – no matter where they placed in each competition.
Other winners included:
Mentor of the Year
David Bowers - Greater Washington Chapter
Emanuel Scarbrough - Madison
Mentee of the Year
Braeden George - Baton Rouge Kamahl Grant -
Small Chapter of the Year London
Medium Chapter of the Year
Greater Huntsville
Large Chapter of the Year
Greater Charlotte
Jesse C. Swanigan Award
Michael Garner - New York Chapter
Dr. James T. Black Award
Eric Burroughs, - Long Beach Chapter
Knight Leadership Award
Harold Ogelsby - Savannah Chapter
Wimberly Award
James W. Wade III - Greater Cleveland Chapter
Emerging Leader Award
Kyle Walcott
Chairman’s Award for Volunteer Service
Clara Burke - Jones
Collegiate 100 Chapter of the Year
Howard
Collegiate 100 Chapter of the Year Morehouse
38th Annual Conference
Conference Highlights
38th Annual Conference
Conference Highlights
38th Annual Conference
Conference Highlights
TOMMYS CLOSET
Tommy’s Closet-Helping Students Dress for Success
The 100 Black Men of America, Inc. supported Historically Black Colleges or Universities (HBCUs) by donating clothing to aid their campus and community efforts. This effort started on February 15, 2024, through April 12, 2024. The 100 supported institutions by donating clothing to support their campus and community efforts to collect new or dry-cleaned business attire clothing to help their students.
On March 9, 2024, members of the 100 Black Men of Greater Huntsville Chapter (GHC), led by GHC President Greg Lunn, attended the AAMU versus Southern University basketball game
on Alabama A&M University (AAMU) campus. Joining them were Mentoring Program mentees, the Alabama A&M University Collegiate 100, and several distinguished guests, including the 100 Black Men of America Chairman Milton Jones, Mrs. Carole Dortch (wife of Chairman Emeritus Thomas W. Dortch, Jr.), Stan Savage (100 Georgia District Director), Charles Hyder (100 Southern District Director), and Otis Threatt (100 World Headquarters Representative).
The event marked the kickoff of the “Tommy’s Closet” initiative, a collaborative effort with AAMU’s Career Closet to provide students with professional attire. During halftime, AAMU students modeled donated professional clothing at center court. The 100 National Chairman, accompanied by Tommy’s wife, AAMU President Dr. Daniel Wims, and the 100 GHC President, briefly introduced the initiative. They highlighted AAMU as the first of several HBCU institutions to host Tommy’s Closet, underscoring the program’s importance in supporting students’ career readiness.
The initiative aims to empower students by ensuring they can access professional attire for interviews and other career-related events. It also sets a positive tone for future collaborations and support for HBCU students nationwide.
Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University (AAMU) is a historic, studentfriendly, and community-focused institution of higher learning. Reflecting on its heritage as a historically black college and university (HBCU) and a traditional 1890 land-grant institution, AAMU functions as a teaching, research, and public service institution, including extension. Founded in 1875 by a formerly enslaved
person, Dr. William Hooper Councill, AAMU is a dynamic and progressive institution committed to academic excellence. The serene, intimate campus is situated on “The Hill,” only a short distance from downtown Huntsville, the site of the school’s founding.
Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University offers more than 60 undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs and concentrations, a diverse international faculty, 50+ student organizations, and an extensive alum network comprised of politicians, educators, entrepreneurs, doctors, lawyers, engineers, scientists, authors, artists, and more, many of whom are change agents on the local, national, and international stage.
Dr. Christopher E. Johnson MEET
K - 12 - Education Chair
The 100 Black Men of America, Inc., the world’s largest mentoring organization for African American youth, has accomplished a lot under Milton H. Jones Jr.’s leadership. Recently, he named Dr. Christopher Johnson the new chair of Education K—12.
Dr. Christopher E. Johnson’s journey in public education spans an impressive thirty-eight years. His career began in a unique way, as a high school bus driver in the tenth grade back in 1985. He continued to work his way through college, taking on roles as a substitute teacher and bus driver. His dedication and hard work led him to hold various professional educational positions in K-12 education, from Algebra teacher to Ninth Grade Academy Principal. Currently, he serves as a Senior Grants Administrator with the National Education Association’s (NEA) Center for Professional Excellence and Student Learning in Washington, DC. His journey with the NEA started in 2013 with the Priority Schools department, where he played a crucial role in coordinating services for underserved students and educators to aid in school transformation. In addition to his educational career, he is the owner and managing broker of Imagine Associates LLC./ Realty, providing real estate services to families in the Atlanta metro area. He also serves as the 100 Black Men of DeKalb Inc., Secretary and Interim Engagement Director.
He was humbled to broker a partnership and grant funds with Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. and the NEA Priority Schools to provide mentoring services to at-risk male students in designated NEA Priority Schools across the United States. He was honored to be named the Assistant Principal of the Year for the State of Georgia in November 2005. He completed his Bachelor of Science in Mathematics Education from South Carolina State University in 1994. He obtained his Master of School Administration from North Carolina State University in 2001. Additionally, he acquired his Specialist in Education from Jacksonville State University in 2004. He completed his terminal degree, Doctor of Education, from Georgia Southern University, with a dissertation titled ‘Mentor Me to Mister: A Comprehensive Study on the Importance of Male Mentors in Education’ in 2011. Finally, he continued his education and completed the requirements for the Master of Business Administration degree with a concentration in Human Resources from the University of Phoenix in September 2016. He received a 100% scholarship for his MBA from a collaborative partnership between the 100 Black Men of America and the University of Phoenix.
Dr. Johnson’s leadership and dedication extend beyond the field of education. He has been a dedicated member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. for an impressive thirty-three years, becoming a Spring 1991 initiate of the Alpha Lambda of Kappa Alpha Psi. His commitment to mentoring and community service is evident in his numerous positions within the Southeastern and Middle Eastern Provinces. His dedication was further acknowledged when he was named the Alpha Lambda Chapter at South Carolina
State University Brother of the Year in 1992, just a year after his initiation. He serves as the Southeastern Province Historian and has authored and published four editions of the History of the Southeastern Province. His community leadership has also been recognized with many awards, including the National Bert V. Wadkins Kappa League Director/Mentors of the Year in 2005. He is also the founding advisor for the Omicron Omega Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity at Clayton State University.
Dr. Johnson’s contributions to the 100 Black Men of America are significant. He is a member of the 2008 class of initiates of the 100 Black Men of South Metro Atlanta, Inc., where he served as the chapter secretary. He established the Collegiate 100 chapter at Clayton State University in 2009, a testament to his commitment to fostering the next generation of leaders. He also mentored the 2008 - 100 Black Men of America Mentee of the Year, Gian Crunk, further demonstrating his dedication to supporting and guiding young individuals. His efforts were recognized with the 2009 Distinguished Service Award from the 100 Black Men of South Metro Atlanta Inc. He is a 2009 100 Black Men of America Leadership Development Institute graduate. Currently, he serves as the secretary and interim engagement director of the 100 Black Men of DeKalb County, where he has been instrumental in implementing various community engagement initiatives and programs.
Dr. Johnson has been an ascent to the 100 Black Men; his favorite personal quote is, “The true value of man is seen in his sacrifice to aid others.”
Dr. Johnson’s service to his country is a testament to his character and dedication. He proudly served as a United States Marine Corps reservist, a role that he holds in high regard. His commitment to his military service is evident in his pride in wearing the dress blues of the US Marine Corps.
Member DOLAPO
HIS LIFE MISSION COULD CHANGE HOLLYWOOD Member DOLAPO ERINKITOLA
There’s a revolution going on in the film industry led by people with Black skin. They have names you may recognize such as Idris Elba, David Oyelow, Chiwetel Ejiofo, Boris Kudjoe and Lupita Nyong’o. The one cultural link they have in common is all have close family ties to Africa. The onscreen talent these extremely well-known individuals have wielded has forced production studios to understand the power and profitability that come with Black actors. But there’s a second wave to that revolution. It involves people who are responsible for making everything happen behind the scenes for television and movies. One of the people in the vanguard of that revolution is a former 100 Black Men of America, Inc. board member named Dolapo Erinkitola.
Dolapo is a multi-hyphenate successful business entrepreneur phenomenon. As of April 2024, he co-owns two popular restaurant/bars in Atlanta, GA; functions as a manager for Grammynominated musicians and works as an executive producer for independent films available on
BET, Amazon and Hulu. One of his films was the number one independently produced movie on Amazon for six months.
His success has imbued him with a passion to help more Black people gain access to the entertainment industry. In 2022, he started hosting special seminars that allow up-andcoming Black filmmakers to showcase their projects in front of attorneys, production company owners and others who can help them move from having works-in-progress to shows we can all watch. Meanwhile, Dolapo continues producing. In fact, his upcoming movie tentatively titled “The Waterboyz” has finished shooting and stars actors LaLa Anthony and Quavo.
“ It’s going to be in the AFF, African American Film Festival. We’ll be debuting it, there. Then, it’s going to go into theaters, and then you’re going to be able to get it on all platforms,” he explained.
Viewership for the new film has the potential of surpassing some of Dolapo’s other work which includes movies, “Scheme Queens,” “The Sounds of Christmas,” the documentary: “I am John Gabbanna,” and his first movie, “Karen” which touched a cultural pulse point. He signed on as an investor and executive producer for “Karen” after shooting had completed. He backed its first screening with his own money because he thought it had the potential to become a streaming success. He was right. “Karen” became BET’s number-one movie on all platforms. The film’s writer/director, “Coke” Daniels also helms an upcoming movie about the young Black men who sell water on the streets of downtown Atlanta, GA. “Coke” is working on a second film with Dolapo because they share similar visions about storytelling.
“I just judge people off energy,” he said. “ He had a good vibe. He’s obviously a very astute businessman, you know, what his real estate holdings and the restaurant business and lounges and all that kind of stuff. And he has a passion for film and he loves supporting creatives.” The TMZ-recognized film director said Dolapo’s extensive business background in traditional industries gives him the ability to make astute decisions.
Dolapo has worked as an executive producer in the film and television industry for approximately six years. His accomplishments may look meteoric, but they’re actually the result of business and personal development experiences, both positive and not-so-much-so, that started when he was a child.
Dolapo Adetokumbo Erinkitola is the second of ten children born to Nigerian engineer Mabayoje, and his wife, Omotunde. His father was the breadwinner. But Dolapo remembers his mother as being both a homemaker and small business small business entrepreneur. She helped women in Nigeria by importing items such as jewelry and clothes from them and selling them in the United States. The Erinkitola family moved to Chicago, Ill in the mid-1960s. They brought with them a drive for success, respect for education and a family dynamic that established levels of leadership that many people never learned.
It started with Dolapo’s father, who taught all of his children a basic lesson about service. He drilled the concept of being their brother’s keeper into them by word and example. Dolapo was the second eldest son and was taught that everyone except, his oldest brother, was his responsibility. That lesson also applied to the rest of his siblings.
“My youngest sister was responsible for the next one in line, right? You know, even though I was responsible for everyone underneath me, there would be consequences for her if she did not help out my younger sister. So, it was my understanding that leadership involved being
protective,” Dolapo said. His parents also had high regard for being of service to others. Those lessons became lifelines to survival after family circumstances drastically changed for the worse when he was eleven. His parents divorced and the family abruptly transitioned from being stable enough to take summer vacations in Europe to having no home. His mother passed away soon afterward, then his father battled severe depression and became unemployed. The Erinkitolas first moved into a single room at a Salvation Army location and then into public housing.
“It just happened back after back and back-toback. But yeah, that time was pretty traumatic,” he said. “There were leadership skills that I had to learn because I had so many siblings. They’re wondering what’s going on. You’re going from a big house to being homeless. And it got to the point where my brother, myself and my sister, were basically taking the lead, cooking the food, you know, just helping my dad.” That period of his life forged a new attitude in Dolapo.
“We had to implement a lot of the tools that we had learned as kids. Well, we were still kids. But we were totally responsible for making sure that everyone ate. So, it became a different type of leadership. It’s like early on, you learn the models. And then you have to implement it in the real world. We were in the real world,” he said.
The family started receiving food stamps which meant the three older siblings also had to develop their own financial literacy program to keep the family going.
“This was before they had the card. We’d buy something and they would give us the cash back. The family could use it to buy gas. So, we had to calculate as a kid how much all the items in your budget would be to make sure you have the change that was needed. There are a lot of different things that go along with that,” Dolapo said. However, what Dolapo didn’t realize was that the harsh life lessons he lived through were actually giving him hands-on experience
for the business situations his future self would encounter.
In Chicago, Dolapo’s childhood life improved by age fourteen. His father remarried and was able to work again. The family once more lived in a large home and traveled abroad. However, Dolapo earned his high school diploma and surprised everyone, when he told his father that he wasn’t going to college, because he wanted to be an actor. His father sent him to London, for the summer, where quickly Dolapo blasted through the lump sum of funds given to him.
“I was miserable, because I spent all my money,” Dolapo remembers. “When I called my father for more he said, ‘Well, you see what it’s like not having money and not having anybody to support you. You need an education.’ I said, ‘Okay, I’ll go to school.’ I ended up coming back and going to a community college in Chicago. I received my associate’s degree there. I was president of the Student Union and president of the Black and the Afro club. My mentor said I should go into politics because I was a leader. The only Black political leader in my mind at that time was Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. I said, ‘I will go to whatever school he went to’, and it happened to be Morehouse College. I had never heard of Morehouse. I just wanted to go to the school he went to and that’s how I ended up in Atlanta.”
Atlanta was a good city at a good time in Dolapo’s life, but he left college before finishing his final semester because he became a father. He used his knack for working with computers to support his new family as an IT professional. That profession allowed him to earn high wages. He probably would have stayed with IT, if the dot com bubble hadn’t burst around the year 2000. Dolapo left the IT industry, went back to school and re-invented himself by earning four degrees from Kennesaw State University. He used them to move into the healthcare field.
“I received two undergrad degrees, one in business and a computer science degree. And I
ended up getting two master’s degrees, one in business management and another in healthcare management,” he said. But, the fields of health and medicine operate with protocols that are different from standard business industries. He adapted to them to do his job.
“I had to talk to different doctors and took some leadership classes at Harvard on soft business skills. My mentor at the time said, ‘In the healthcare arena, it’s all about your credentials. Why don’t you go back and get your Ph.D.?’ So that’s when I entered Walden University. I did it just so that… when you talk in front of a bunch of doctors, if you have a title, they assume that what you’re saying is on par with them,” he said. Dolapo completed his studies and is Ph.D. a.b.d – all but dissertation in the field of leadership and organizational change. His advanced studies didn’t stop there. He had to do more studying and pass a completely different test to earn a PMP – Project Management Professional designation. However, it significantly increased his income to high six figures.
“I felt pretty good. But that really wasn’t my passion. I was working for a major pharmaceutical company. It just made me vice president. I lived in Charlotte, NC and was making a lot of money, but I really wasn’t too happy. I came back to Atlanta. I gave my two weeks’ notice and just set up to do something else. While I was taking those two weeks off to try to figure out my next move, a good friend of mine said, ‘Hey, my partner’s not a town. Why don’t you come help me and just hang out at my restaurant?’” That visit changed Dolapo’s life.
“When I saw the numbers they were doing, I realized running a restaurant was about consistency. Think about it. If you make just $1,000 a day, you’re making 350, almost $360,000 a year. When you break it down by the hour and start doing the math, it’s crazy. And it turned out if two or three customers came in and spent $100 in an hour among them you could really make money,” he said. Dolapo opened a
restaurant with his friend and one other partner that became one of the most popular eating spots in Atlanta. But he also changed careers for a more personal reason.
“I was dating a well-known, recognized actress. And she said, ‘Well, if you are going to take us seriously, you can’t be traveling like this.’
So, opening up a restaurant made sense. That allowed me to open other restaurants that also did well.” As of 2024, he co-owns two very popular restaurant/bars in Atlanta; the Blue Lagoon Bar and Bistro in the affluent commercial area of Atlanta known as Buckhead. He runs it with two industry professionals. He also coowns the Havana Lounge in Sandy Springs with his oldest brother Adekunle, whom he lured away from a career as a software engineer in San
Francisco to partner with him. Adekunle made that major change in his life for two reasons. He considers his younger brother his best friend, but more importantly, he trusts Dolapo’s ability to effectively and ethically, run a company.
“My brother, regardless of who’s looking or not looking, does business with integrity,” Adelunde said. The eldest Erinkitola acknowledges that his younger brother was always known to be clever. He says everyone is proud of how much respect Dolapo has brought to the family name. “The accolades that he has accumulated over the years and the people who give him love and support make me swell up with pride,” Adekunle said.
Some of Dolapo’s success has come from the value he places on nurturing friendships. After all, it was a friend who introduced Dolapo to the restaurant industry. But it was someone who meant more to him than that, who opened the door to the profession of filmmaking.
“The actress I was dating started telling me about her career. She told me what was working, what wasn’t. I said, ‘Hey, let me look at your contract.’ And then I started helping her with the business side of it,” Dolapo said. She began to introduce him to people in her industry with clout. She also helped him understand the convoluted details that are taken for granted in the entertainment business. “We started coming up with ideas on how I could assist her. That blossomed into where I am now in the film industry,” he said.
Where he is in 2024, positions him to be a major international player in entertainment. He shot four movies simultaneously during the previous year, in addition to running two restaurants. He completed the upcoming movie, “The Waterboyz”. IMDB (International Movie Database) lists two other completed projects, plus two others in production. He also finished a movie named “A Little Piece of Heaven”, plus two competition shows for television. One involves well-known motivational speakers and has 100 Black Men of America’s Interfaith
Committee Chair and the senior pastor of Atlanta’s New Hope Missionary Baptist Church, Rev. Jamal Bryant, as a judge.
Dolapo says he has been successful in a tough industry because he takes a business approach to what most see as creative endeavors. That means understanding that fame does not always bring fortune.
“When you see actors, that doesn’t mean that they’re constantly getting residuals. Usually, actors on a project are work-for-hire. Typically, Black actors were just asking for more money as opposed to getting points. Only members of the executive or the production team, typically get points. That’s where people have to balance fame versus income. There are people who are very, very famous, but they’re not making money. Then, there are people who are unknown - your executive producers, your producers, etc. who are getting paid,” Dolapo explained.
There’s another area where Dolapo sees content creators in the film industry lose money because they don’t understand the bigger picture.
“ What I tell anyone is, please, license your projects, don’t sell. Because even if you license it for 10 years, you get it back. And guess what? You license it again. The meat of it is going to go to the studio, who’s paying you the money. But after that, you get to do it all over again,” he explained. He also says the pay models for the entertainment industry rapidly are changing. Outlets like Tubi and Pluto TV are developing revenue share plans that give more Black content creators a chance to make money. He is uniquely qualified to take advantage of these changes. His astute assessment ability allows him to analyze a project’s profitability, before anyone signs on the dotted line.
That makes him a unicorn to studio executives. But the film industry isn’t the only creative platform that has allowed Dolapo to use his business skills to help talented artists. He also manages musicians and helps them navigate their careers in ways most have never
considered. “A couple of his music artists are in the film,” movie director “Coke” Daniels said. “So that was another thing that he brought to the equation.”
“What we decided to do is connect the dots which sometimes means we take an unconventional route. So first, I started putting their music in the movies to give it to overlap. If we were looking for a soundtrack on a movie where I signed on as a producer, in my contract, I asked to get two songs placed from my artists, in order for me to come on. I may not use that option. But I had the opportunity,” he said. Afro-fusion performer Cyrus DeShields has earned a Grammy nomination for music he’s
composed for Musiq Soulchild. Now he wants to make it as a singer and trusts Dolapo to handle the business portion of his dreams.
“He hasn’t shown me anything not to trust. He’s been straight up. I do a lot of vocal tracking. I did all the live vocal backgrounds for Bell Biv Devoe,” Cyrus said. However, his success behind the scenes doesn’t automatically put him in the spotlight he wants to claim. Cyrus knows that Dolapo’s approach as a manager to his career is based on good business. “He’s very cerebral, witty. Logical. Sane. Musicians are, regardless of how old they are, they’re still kids in their minds. And they still are creative,” Cyrus said with a chuckle.
Cyrus says he and Dolapo have a working arrangement that allows Dolapo to handle the majority of the paperwork for new music. “Yeah. Like if I put an album together, he’s gonna be executive producer. “ Cyrus is one of several musicians Dolapo manages. But he says it’s exciting because there are so many non-traditional opportunities that are potential sources of new revenue for his clients.
“ Hey, listen, I hear all the songs on these games,’” Dolapo said. What he heard motivated him to find a way to make it an income stream for the musicians he manages. “The gaming industry is a natural transition for these artists. Initially, I did it for free, in order to get my foot in the door and we just did an honoraria license. That way, we still own a license, but they could use it for free. It gave us more exposure. But now we’ve established a name for ourselves so we get to charge. Sometimes you got to take the hit first,” he said.
But that doesn’t happen often to Dolapo. That may be because business success isn’t the only aspect of life that is important to him. The need to give back also inspires him and was galvanized by a chance encounter in 2005.
“I had started working for an optometrist when I was reinventing myself and this guy came in. And when I tell you, he was sharp, he
was clean. He knew what he wanted. And he had a pin on. I think I walked up to him and I introduced myself and asked him what he did. I said, ‘I’m getting my master’s and doing this job.’ I just blurted it out without thinking,” Dolapo said. The man with a pin on his lapel was a member of the Atlanta chapter of the 100 Black Men of America, Inc. He, didn’t know it at the time, but he had lit a fire into Dolapo about joining the organization. Dolapo met the same man again at the North Metro Atlanta chapter because both had become members there.
“I started off just volunteering. And then I got my opportunity, I got a sponsor when I first sent the request to become a member, and then after that, I worked my way up to intake chairman. And then sat on the board. And I ran for president. At that time in our chapters, you had to sit in the seat of Vice President for two years before becoming president and that’s what I did, “ he said. He also held a seat on the national board.
He’s very proud the work the chapter does and became president in 2020 – right when the COVID19 pandemic caused many non-profit organizations to go on hiatus. “At the time some people suggested that we just shut down because we couldn’t meet and we couldn’t provide face-to-face mentoring to the kids,” he said. “I didn’t want to do that.” Instead, chapter members worked together to find innovative ways to provide community support. “Because I had the restaurant I would have everyone come over we would put together the food bags and we’d go out,” he said. The group’s extraordinary efforts during a time of crisis, earned North Metro the Chapter of the Year title in 2020. Dolapo is still a member and is proud of the work his brothers do there.
But, he’s also found another way to give back in the entertainment industry. He started DSR, Dolapo’s Screening Room to help solve the problem Black creatives have accessing people who can help their projects
move forward. DSR hosts sessions throughout each year that allow new Black filmmakers a chance to showcase two or three-minute clips of their work to people who have the power to change their lives. “They get to be in the room with industry professionals, actors, actresses, executive producers, film studio owners. We have attorneys in there, agents and the last few times we’ve had studio executives, a couple of people sold their projects, right on the spot. So it’s a way of giving back to the community,” he said with excitement.
DSR clears a path toward success for Black creative and production people. From Dolapo’s perspective, service and family are two of the most important parts of his life. He takes neither for granted.
“I think I have gotten the best of both worlds. I’ve seen, maybe not the highest, but good living and I’ve seen it where, where we are trying to figure it out. So right now, I’m always very humble. I can appreciate it because I’ve seen it where it goes away,” he said.
No one expects to see the incredible success of this very talented man dissipate. It’s more likely that he will continue to live up to the definition of his first name Dolapo – which means “bring wealth together.” He has done that for himself and others his entire life. For that reason, those who work with him predict that he will be someone who will continue to provide illuminating entertainment to the world and also be an example of what exceptional business leadership can do for others.
Dolapo Erinkitola is a name everyone should remember. Those who do, will not be surprised when he’s linked at the pinnacle of the revolution that profitably brings stories written and produced by Black people to big and small screens everywhere.
Keeley Brown Brings The Room To Its Feet With Her Words
By Keeley Brown
100 Black Men of Western Pennsylvania
During the 38th Conference Youth Breakfast in Atlanta, GA, Keeley Brown was on stage and participated in the program. Brown is a young woman with the most incredible opportunity to show the 100 Black Men of America my God-given talent, where I performed an original poem titled ‘Very Very Wide Awake.’ First, I would like to thank the 100 Black Men of America, Inc., and Mr. Terrance Freeman for allowing me and the rest of the panel of beautiful black youth to get up and speak to you all as a community. Thank you for hearing us out and letting us know what we said. It matters.
Mr.James Wade III asked me to write an article explaining my experience at the 38th Conference. First, I’d like to thank the President and mentors of my chapter, the 100 Black Men of Western Pennsylvania. Mr.Al Valentine, Mr. Mike Carlisle, Mr. Emmanuel Key, Mr. Edgar Folks, Mr. Marvin Randall, Mr. Ron Lawrence, Mr. Sean Spencer and Mr. Bilal Afolabi. I want to give a special shoutout to my mentor, Mrs. Theresa Randall, for being such a beautiful woman inside and out and helping me navigate my passion and career in writing. Now, for the mentees, you all are lovely people, and I wouldn’t be the young woman I am right now
without the influence of you all: Destiny Folks, Ethan Folks, Miles Randall, Caden Huffman, Corey Brooks, Sean Watkins, and Torey Bullock. I genuinely love and appreciate you all.
Now, my experience. Well, where should I start? April 20th of this year was the day that changed my perspective on everything in life. It was the day I learned I was selected to be a part of the State Farm Dollars & Sense Financial Literacy Team. I was ecstatic. My strong suit is public speaking and words, not numbers and calculations. Yet, I was still so honored that I was picked to even be on the team. Mr. Bilal Afolabi and Mr. Sean Spencer were and still are so helpful with the whole process of not only
helping with the conception of our team’s idea but also with the wisdom and care they brought to Destiny Folks, Corey Brooks, and myself.
Even though we didn’t get picked to compete, I thank God and my chapter of Western PA for allowing me to show them that their work and time was well spent with all of us Mentees. Wednesday, the 12th of this month, was the first time I ever set foot on an airplane. The experience was unique and breathtaking but very calming, and now I prefer to be off the ground and up in the air. When I first got on the plane, I was confused about how seating even worked, but once I got to my correct seat, I began to speak with a Mentee who is a part of my chapter, Torey, who is such an exceptional young man whose spirit is genuinely inviting. Intelligence is just out of this world. He was and is so welcoming that even though I wasn’t afraid to ride in an airplane for the first time, Torey added to the peace I felt before, after, and during the ride to Atlanta, Georgia.
The moment we got to Atlanta and outside of the airport…Let me tell you. It was a heat I’d never felt before. Pennsylvania doesn’t offer heat like the South does, and even though the process of perspiration was not fun, it was still enjoyable to take in and digest. Southern hospitality, in a northerner’s eyes, is a beautiful thing. There was a lot of traffic when we got on the road. Nothing would discourage me from returning to the beautiful city of Atlanta, but much bigger than the Pittsburgh traffic I’m so accustomed to. When we made it to the hotel, I could already tell by the surrounding buildings and the different types of people walking on the sidewalks that we were in the heart of Georgia. Walking inside the large hotel was such a sight to behold. The interior design and architecture was something I’d never seen before. It was just beautiful. Even through the air conditioning, you could feel that southern heat. Which made it so much more natural for me that my chapter and I were in Atlanta.
The first Conference we attended was an introduction to everything that would happen. Inside the room, I took in a lot of features I’d never seen in my small hometown of Beaver County. I found it so fascinating to see such different facial features on the black youth who were a part of the other 100 chapters across the country. All of the young men and women are so beautiful and have kind personalities, and I can’t wait to see all of them again next year.
After that, my chapter and I walked downtown, ran into some peculiar people, passed beautiful buildings and food joints, and took many pictures. We even got to be in the background of live news as we walked back to the hotel from exploring the downtown area. Upon returning, we were finally able to get some rest. Not only were the rooms beautiful, but the view was also immaculate.
As each day went on, I had great food, and this basil-infused lemonade, which I would love to have again at the next 100 Conference. The most enjoyable part of it, and this may seem a bit biased, but I loved the Youth Breakfast hosted on the 15th of this month. The other mentees from my chapter also did a phenomenal job speaking to the audience. Torey, Destiny, Miles and Ethan, congratulations and excellent job. Backtrack a little bit, the beginning of the first day. There was a speaker whose persona stuck with me. His name is Mr. Frans Johansson. His words truly moved me and got me so pumped for the other speakers who would speak to us throughout the 100 Conference. I also had the pleasure of hearing from Mr. John Hope Bryant. Not only did his words move me as forcefully as Mr. Johansson, but he also brought many things to my attention as a young black woman unaware of some things in the Atlanta area and its economy.
“We met Keely while she was attending our Saturday Academy, which was on Zoom during the pandemic. Once we started to meet her in person, we were elated to know she traveled 45 minutes from Aliquippa, PA, to Pittsburgh to
attend the Saturday Academy. This year, she set her sights on attending the National Conference by making the Dollars and Sense financial literacy team. Keeley made it happen. I have no doubt Keely achieved her goals of attending college and joining the FBI’s Sex Trafficking Unit. I am thrilled to be here to watch her journey,” said Al Valentine, Chapter President.
I am born to a Black American Mother and an Afro-Puerto Rican man. My identity was often something I couldn’t quite grasp or I even seem to understand and explain things for most of my life. For all seventeen years that I’ve been alive on this planet, it was at this 100 Black Men Conference not only made me secure in my African American side, as I often didn’t acknowledge my mixed race identity for the majority of my life because it wasn’t something I thought was essential to recognize since my Hispanic side isn’t a part of me that I am extensively educated on. Nonetheless, I say all of this to say that my experience overall
at the 38 Conference has made me so much more secure in my identity as a God-fearing and Christian young lady but also as a Black and Afro-Hispanic women. I genuinely love the acceptance from the 100 Black Men. They have shown me and taught me how to love myself, every part of myself that I wasn’t willing to accept, They have made sure that I know and am taught what I need to be educated on in each step of my life, How black men need and deserve to be treated. So I would like to conclude with a thank you to Mr.James Wade III, The 100 Black Men of America, and my beloved chapter, The 100 Black Men of Western Pennsylvania. I am anticipating next year’s 39 Conference and what it holds.
100 Member News
Hello, everyone; we want to increase the readership for our weekly newsletter, Wednesday Weekly. This is an e-newsletter that provides you with important updates, valuable resources, and upcoming events from the 100 Black Men of America, Inc. From now on, we will be consistent with the information you want to hear from our National Office and Chapters.
Soon, we will release a calendar to prepare you for what we plan to do with your districts and when you will be featured in an issue. We want all members, regardless of their role or location, to feel not just included, but like an integral part of our communication process. Your voice matters and we value your input.
Our Chairman charged us with ensuring we communicate more, with the aim of fostering a stronger sense of community and shared purpose. I am asking for your help; please assist me when I contact you.
We are open to suggestions for things you want to see in the Wednesday Weekly. Could you email me at james.wade@100BMOA.org.
Please use the link below to subscribe or re-subscribe to the 100 Black Men of American’s mailing list. It seems some may have inadvertently unsubscribed and in order to get added back to email list you must take the action of re-subscribing via the form at the following link: http://eepurl.com/dIkZMj
Dear Members,
If you wish to request the presence of the Chairman or any other Officer at your chapter or require a video message, we kindly urge you to utilize our Appearance Form. This form facilitates the process of inviting the Chairman or any other Officer within the 100 to participate in your event. We kindly request that you refrain from contacting the Chairman and other Officers directly to request their attendance at chapter events. Instead, please utilize the provided link to submit your requests.
Thank you for your cooperation. Members, we want to request you send us your Fallen Members to 100chapternews@100bmoa.org with the following information:
Date - Deceased Date *At least a 4 x 6 picture with high resolution. Please, no thumbnail pictures or off social media sites. If you have any questions, please get in touch with James W. Wade III at james.wade@100bmoa.org.
Indianapolis Chapter
Indianapolis Chapter Celebrates Their 40th Anniversary
On October 26, 2024, the Indianapolis Chapter of the 100 Black Men celebrated 40 years with a Gala and awards ceremony. Celebrating the 40th anniversary of the 100 Black Men of Indianapolis is a significant milestone that underscores the organization’s enduring commitment to uplifting the community and empowering future generations. This steadfast dedication is a source of inspiration and motivation for all of us, instilling a sense of trust and reliability in the audience. For four decades, the 100 Black Men of Indianapolis has been a beacon of support, mentorship, and leadership for young Black men in the city, and this anniversary serves as both a reflection on past achievements and a reminder of the ongoing work needed to address systemic challenges.
Moses W. Gray, a founding member and president of 100 Black Men of Indianapolis, Inc., his service was extensive and included working on numerous committees, programs, and community initiatives. Gray was instrumental in the development and success of the 100 Black Men of Indianapolis, Inc. Summer Reading Academy. As a founding member of 100 Black Men of America, Inc., where he served as the initial Secretary, Gray was always an active member of the 100 Black Men organization at a national and local level. A founding member and president of 100 Black Men of Indianapolis, Inc., his extensive service included working on numerous committees, programs, and community initiatives. Gray was instrumental in
the development and success of the 100 Black Men of Indianapolis, Inc. Summer Reading Academy.
First and foremost, the 40th anniversary celebrated the profound impact of a vision that began in 1984. The organization was founded to provide positive role models and mentors to young Black men, particularly in underserved communities, to foster academic success, leadership, and personal growth. The Gala had two of their mentees, London Okowa and Laith Hicks, who did an outstanding job. National Chairman Milton H. Jones Jr. gave remarks before dinner. This emphasis on the impact of the organization’s vision evokes a sense of pride and accomplishment in the audience.
The program was about the youth, who were on display all evening before the chapter inducted nine men into their Centurion Club and presented them with Gold Blazers. They honored sponsors and members with various awards and had a campaign for you to donate to their different programs. After the program, a dessert buffet was opened, a gaming experience for the rest of the night.
Over the years, the 100 Black Men of Indianapolis have built a legacy of success, creating pathways for young men to excel academically, professionally, and personally. By celebrating this milestone, the organization honors the thousands of lives it has touched, the
Indianapolis Chapter
countless mentors who have volunteered their time, and the students who have gone on to achieve greatness in various fields.
Moreover, this anniversary is a poignant reminder of the ongoing need for organizations like the 100 Black Men of Indianapolis. While progress has been made, the challenges facing Black communities—ranging from educational disparities to economic inequality—are still prevalent. The 100 Black Men of Indianapolis continues to be a critical resource for addressing these issues, offering mentorship programs, educational initiatives, and community engagement efforts that are more crucial than ever. They help break the cycle of poverty and provide Black youth with the tools and confidence to succeed.
A 40th-anniversary celebration also provides an opportunity to reflect on the organization’s
remarkable growth. From its humble beginnings to becoming a vital institution in Indianapolis, the 100 Black Men chapter has expanded its reach and influence, forging partnerships with schools, businesses, and other community organizations. Its programs, such as mentoring, STEM education initiatives, and college readiness workshops, have made an indelible mark on the city. This growth is a testament to our collective efforts and a source of pride, evoking a sense of progress and development in the audience.
Finally, marking this anniversary strengthens the collective resolve to continue the work ahead. The 100 Black Men of Indianapolis is a local organization and part of a more extensive national network committed to empowering Black youth. The 40th-anniversary celebration will serve as a reminder that the fight for equity, opportunity, and justice is ongoing and that the work done today will shape the future for the next 40 years and beyond.
Indianapolis Chapter
Milwaukee Chapter
100 Black Men of Milwaukee, Inc. Hosts
Inaugural
Career & Resource Fair
The 100 Black Men of Milwaukee, Inc. held their inaugural Career & Resource Fair on June 1st, a significant milestone in our community’s journey towards hope and opportunity. The event, hosted at Christ The King Baptist Church, was led by the esteemed Rev. John McVicker, a senior pastor and dedicated member of the 100 Black Men of Milwaukee, Inc., further underscoring the local significance of this initiative.
The fair saw active participation from approximately 18 companies and organizations, each eagerly contributing to the cause of community upliftment. This collective effort, which included the community’s active involvement, aimed to bring new prospects to around 100 Milwaukee residents, offering them pathways to better careers and resources.
The success of the event was significantly amplified by the generous support of our sponsors. Lamar Advertising, a key partner, sponsored the event and strategically placed around ten digital billboards throughout the Milwaukee area, ensuring widespread awareness and engagement. National partners Molson Coors and Southwest Airlines also played a vital role, their support enhancing the event’s prestige and outreach.
One of the attendees, Anthony Harvey, shared his profound thoughts on the event’s impact, stating, “This event is transformative because it’s getting some people off the street who are willing to learn and work.” His words resonate with the core mission of the 100 Black Men of Milwaukee, Inc., underscoring the fair’s positive influence on the community.
The Career & Resource Fair is a testament to the power of collaboration and community spirit. It is a promising beginning for future initiatives aimed at empowering Milwaukee residents.
Bay Area Chapter
3rd Annual Career Expo Was Successful
The Bay Area Chapter held its third Annual Career Expo on May 18, 2024, at Laney College from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This packed event featured impressive career and training opportunities. Sports, entertainment, health, culinary arts, IT, business, and financial wealth were all discussed and shared.
The Bay Area Chapter was officially recognized as the fifth National Chapter on June 10, 1988. In 1992, 100 Black Men of the Bay Area established the Young Black Scholar Program and hosted the first statewide Young Black Scholars Conference in June 1993. The Young Black Scholar Program is the cornerstone of the Chapter’s Role Modeling, Mentoring, Scholarship, and Fundraising endeavors. Each year, scholarship awards and financial assistance are given to students throughout the San Francisco Bay Area.
Career fairs are events where employers and recruiters set up booths or tables to meet with potential job candidates. These fairs, brimming with opportunities for personal growth, allow job seekers to learn about different companies, network with professionals, and interview for positions on the spot. It’s a great way to explore various career opportunities and make connections in the industry. Special thanks to -
Target
Pacific Catch
Cypress Mandela, Inc.
Alameda Health System
Vulcan Materials Company
Laney College
Oakland Ballers
Bay Area Chapter
CALVIN SYMRE
President Biden Announces Key Appointments, Calvin Smyre, to be a Member of the President’s Intelligence Advisory Board
Calvin Smyre is a member of the Columbus, Georgia Chapter and was recently appointed to the President’s Intelligence Advisory Board.
The 100 Black Men of Columbus was formed in 2002 by a group of prominent leaders, including Isaiah Hugley Sr., Ed Harbison, Dewayne Richardson, Robert Wison, John D. Allen, and Douglas Bryant III, to improve the quality of life and enhance the educational opportunities of African Americans in a unified, collaborative, pragmatic effect. Since its inception, the Columbus Ga Chapter has taken great strides in membership growth to over 100 men.
These men believe in brotherhood as the organization’s staple. While the organization is
predominantly black men, membership is open to everyone who meets specific criteria, starting at the elementary level and continuing through adulthood. The 100 Black Men of Columbus, GA, reaches the youth in Columbus, GA, through various programs, including Mentoring, Education, Health and wellness, economic empowerment, and Leadership Development. Calvin Symre is one of these men.
Calvin Smyre, a business executive, state legislator, and community and national leader, earned his B.S. degree from Fort Valley State University, majoring in business administration with a minor in accounting. His career path has taken him from being a community organizer and director of the “War on Poverty” program in Columbus, Georgia, to his current positions as
executive vice president of corporate External Affairs at Synovus and president of the Synovus Foundation. He also serves on the company’s eight-member Corporate Executive Group. Synovus (NYSE: “SNV”) is a diversified financial services holding company with over $32 billion in assets based in Columbus, Georgia. Synovus provides integrated financial services, including banking, financial management, insurance, mortgage, and leasing services through 39 banks and other Synovus offices in Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina, Florida, and Tennessee; and electronic payment processing through an 81 percent stake in TSYS (NYSE: “TSS”), the world’s largest third-party processor of international payments. Synovus has been named one of “The 100 Best Companies To Work For” in America by FORTUNE magazine and has been recognized in its Hall of Fame for consecutive appearances since its inception in 1998. In 2004, Synovus was named one of “America’s Most Admired Companies.” See Synovus on the Web at www.synovus. com. He was elected to the Georgia House of Representatives in 1974 as its youngest member at 26 years of age. As a 44-year legislative veteran and one of the “Deans of the House,” he serves on the most important committees of the House. In the state’s budgetary process, he serves on the Appropriations Committee, responsible for dividing the $26 billion state budget. He is also a member of the powerful calendar-setting Rules Committee and chairman of the House Minority Caucus. Rep. Smyre has previously served as chairman of the House Rules Committee and University System of Georgia Committee, which has oversight responsibility for the state’s 34 public colleges and universities, from 1993-1999, and he served as chairman of the House Industrial Relations Committee from 1991 to July 1993.
Nationally, Calvin is president of the National Black Caucus of State Legislators, a member of the Assembly on State Issues of the National Conference of State Legislators, and he also
serves as a Synovus representation on the Financial Services Roundtable; all three are headquartered in Washington, D.C. Rep. Smyre has lectured at several colleges and universities and has received over 200 local, state and national honors and awards. In 1980, he was selected by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution as one of the “Ten Best Legislators” in the state, and in 1985 and 2005, he was chosen by his peers as the “National Legislator of the Year.” He has been honored twice as “Citizen of the Year” in his hometown of Columbus.
Statement of former Georgia State Representative and Dean of the House Calvin Smyre: “I am deeply honored to be appointed to the President’s Intelligence Advisory Board (PIAB), an advisory body to the Executive Office of the President of the United States. I am excited to have this opportunity to serve in this role. I am grateful to President Joe Biden for this opportunity to serve and his trust in me.”
To read President Biden announcement, click on the link below
https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/ statements-releases/2024/05/31/presidentbiden-announces-key-appointments-to-boardsand-commissions-37/
