Editor’s Letter

I AM GLAD I HAD SOME GREAT MENTOR’S IN MY LIFE

Well, while we are now in the 11th month when many reflect on Thanksgiving, it makes you think about what you are thankful for. I have so much to be grateful for as I think about myself as a kid and what I wanted to be in life growing up. I had one vision: to be like my father, a banker and a musician who excelled well in both areas. I did not become a musician, but I did become a banker. When I became a banker, I met a mentor named Donald Graham (DG). Graham, who also knew my father, mentored many in the bank, both Black and White. If I didn’t know any better, I would say I was his only mentee, but I knew better; he mentored all of us and treated everybody well.

Graham introduced me to the Urban Bankers, now Urban Financial Services Coalition, where I became the local chapter President and was the National Marketing & Pr Chair. I enjoyed networking both at conventions as well local events. Going to bank events, Graham always said never sit at the table with your co-workers, make new friends and move around. Who knew all those years working for him, He was mentoring me without me knowing. I am sure so many feel the same way. Graham was a tall man in stature but had a big heart. I am forever thankful to him for all he taught me and showed me, and from time to time, we check on each other and talk about those great times.

But on the home front, I had one of the best mentors I could ask for in the person of James W. Wade II, a man I had the honor of calling dad. Seeing my father, who helped so many Black-owned businesses in the state of Ohio, taught me the importance of wanting to give back. Over the years, I did just that and gave back in various ways, and now mentoring kids through the 100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland. I will always remember my younger years; he said, “Son, never look down on anyone unless you reaching out your hand to them to help them up.” That lesson rings in my ear to this day.

As a child, my father was larger than life, had a great banking job, drove Cadillacs, always had on a suit and cologne, and wore out an organ at church; who wouldn’t want that life? I never could fill his shoes, but I am thankful for the great men in my life to help shape me into the man I am today. I guess the 100 “What They See Is What They’ll Be” is more than a motto. It is a source of motivation and made a difference in my life. Consider becoming a mentor with the 100 Black Men and make a difference in some child’s life.