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Milwaukee Times Founders
Nathan Conyers
The Late Luther Golden
The Late Louvenia Johnson
In 1985, a group of Milwaukee citizens initiated the Black Excellence Awards ceremony. With unwavering tenacity and vision, our group saw the good deeds of people and wanted to praise living unsung heroes and heroines. Today, 30 years later, their vision continues, staunch and steadfast. “Saluting the Best” is what these individuals are all about. Over the past 30 years, the Black Excellence Awards have honored nearly 800 individuals who would have gone unnoticed for their outstanding contributions and their great leadership. Still, today we often hear that they have flourished to an even higher level of excellence in their personal endeavors and professional careers. The success of the awards ceremony is due to a dedicated committee that has worked diligently and persistently to spotlight our honorees. We most graciously thank our 30th annual awards sponsors: Reid’s New Golden Gate Funeral Home, Inc., WISN-Channel 12, Northwestern Mutual, Gruber Law Offices, The Milwaukee Urban League, Robert W. Baird & Co., McDonald’s, Columbia Savings & Loan, Hupy and Abraham, Guaranty Bank and Johnson Controls. We also thank our volunteers, supporters, and The Milwaukee Times graphics and printing staff for keeping the Awards ceremony at the forefront of Black History throughout the years. As we continue to infuse our efforts and commitment in cultivating a new leadership, let us look forward to a future filled with the excellence of those who have striven to persevere. Special thanks to the Black Excellence Committee: Shirley Sharp, Brenda Sheppard-Nelson, Jacquelyn Heath, Dawn D. Jackson, Pamela Clark, Sherry Hill and Lynda Jackson Conyers.
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30th Annual Black Excellence Awards
A Statement from the President and Publisher The Milwaukee Times Black Excellence Awards Program has aged and grown in stature through the years. Many individuals, organizations and businesses have contributed to the popularity and success of this event, which is usually observed annually on the last Friday of February. The Black Excellence Awards Program is one of the city’s premiere events, which celebrates, honors and pays tribute to scores of African Americans to whom this community owes a heartfelt thanks. These honorees have worked to create an environment which makes this city the wonderful place it is to live, work, raise families and be productive citizens. The Black Excellence Awards, for 30 years, has been fascinated with the desire to comprehend Lynda J. Jackson Conyers what compels African Americans, who have been faced with extreme social injustice, unfairness and abuse, to rise above these conditions and succeed beyond anyone’s expectations. The lives of past honorees and this year’s recipients have been chronicled on the pages of The Milwaukee Times. One commonality these honorees share is that not a single one is a stranger to abuse, injustice, mistreatment and stereotyping of their race. More importantly, it is abundantly clear from the myriad of individuals being honored, they did not allow events of their past or present circumstance in life to affect their achievements. They did not allow the earlier cancers in their lives to kill their motivation, thus robbing them of ambition, determination and the perseverance to make a difference, not only in their lives, but in the lives of countless others.
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An American Original Robert Robinson Taylor Joins Black Heritage Stamp Series Robert Robinson Taylor (June 8, 1868-December 13, 1942) was an American architect; by some accounts the first accredited African American architect. He was also the first African American student enrolled at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1888. Additionally, he designed many of the buildings on the campus of Tuskegee University prior to 1932, and he served as second-in-command to its founder and first President, Booker T. Washington. Taylor’s first building project on the Tuskegee University campus was the Science Hall (Thrasher Hall) completed in 1893. The new Science Hall was constructed entirely by students, using bricks made also by students under Taylor’s supervision. The project epitomized Washington’s philosophy of instilling in Tuskegee students, the descendants of former enslaved Africans, the value and dignity of physical labor and it provided an example to the world of the capabilities of African Americans in the building trades, and it underscored the larger potential of the manual training curricula being developed at Tuskegee. A number of other buildings followed, including the original Tuskegee Chapel, erected between 1895 and 1898. After the Chapel came The Oaks, built in 1899, home of the Tuskegee University president. From 1899 to 1902, he returned to Cleveland, Ohio to work on his own and for the architectural firm of Charles W. Hopkinson. Upon his return to Tuskegee from Cleveland in 1902, he was architect and director of “mechanical industries” until his retirement in the mid-1930s. Taylor also designed Carnegie libraries at Wiley College in Marshall, Texas and at Livingstone College in Salisbury, North Carolina. With his later partner, the black architect Louis H. Persley, he did large buildings at Selma University in Selma, Alabama, and the Colored Masonic Temple, which is also an office building and entertainment venue, in Birmingham, Alabama. He served for a period as vice-principal of Tuskegee, beginning in 1925. In 1929, under the joint sponsorship of the Phelps-Stokes Fund, the Liberian government, and Firestone Rubber, he went to Kakata, Liberia to lay out architectural plans and devise a program in industrial training for the proposed Booker Washington Institute – “the Tuskegee of Africa.” Robert Taylor served on the Mississippi Valley Flood Relief Commission, appointed by President Herbert Hoover, and was chairman of the Tuskegee chapter of the American Red Cross. Following his retirement to his native Wilmington, North Carolina in 1935, the governor of North Carolina appointed Taylor to the board of trustees of what is now Fayetteville State University. He died on December 13, 1942 while attending services in the Tuskegee Chapel, the building that he considered his most outstanding achievement as an architect. He was buried at the Pine Forest Cemetery in Wilmington, North Carolina. The housing project in Chicago, Robert Taylor Homes, was named after his son, Robert Rochon Taylor, a civic leader, communist and former Chairman of the Chicago Housing Authority. His great-granddaughter, Valerie Jarrett, is a Senior Advisor to President Barack Obama. 3
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The Louvenia Johnson Scholarship Fund
The Milwaukee Times Weekly Newspaper established the Louvenia Johnson Scholarship Fund on February 27, 1988 at the third annual Black Excellence Award Program. The Louvenia Johnson Journalism Scholarship Fund is named after the late Mrs. Louvenia Johnson, one of the three founders of the Christian Times Newspaper, which later evolved into what is known as The Milwaukee Times Weekly Newspaper. The Louvenia Johnson Journalism Scholarship program was established in recognition of the outstanding contributions Mrs. Johnson has made in fostering journalism excellence in all areas of the community. A sensitive, devoted community leader and a businesswoman, Mrs. Johnson possessed an unshakable belief in literary excellence among youths in our community and with the community newspaper, specifically, The Milwaukee Times Weekly Newspaper. Students who are planning to pursue a college education and are Wisconsin residents may apply for the Louvenia Johnson Scholarship. All correspondence should be mailed to:
LOUVENIA JOHNSON ANNUAL JOURNALISM SCHOLARSHIP FUND C/O The Milwaukee Times Weekly Newspaper 1936 N. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive Milwaukee, WI 53212 Contributions may also be sent to the above address. Make checks or money orders payable to Louvenia Johnson Scholarship Fund. Contributions to the fund, a 501(c)(3) entity, are tax-deductible. 4
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Louvenia Johnson Scholarship Recipients 1988 - 2015 Jamaal Abdul-Alim Na Mia Moore
Silvia I. Acevedo Sequoya Allen Priscilla Avant Jonathan O. Babalola Shaneika Baldwin Jennifer Ball-Sharpe Lauren Barber Darren Barton Chez Bass Aris Battiste Marita Benvenue Risharda Bond Jevita D. Brister Sharvon Montgomery Brown Jaslyn Brown Qiana Burns Louis Burrell Raetricia Byrd-Townsell Brianna Christian Qiana Christian Mindee Cohen Jacqueline Gail Crymes Trenton Daniels Jamal Davis Carla Dew Sa’Sha Nicole Edwards Quina Elzie Kurtez Ellis Henry Eruchalu Kaiyla Farrington Shaun Flanagan Chelsey French Jessica Gathing Deanna Gauthier Donald Grace Pamanisha Gross Denean P. Hall Timothy Hall Megan Harmon Gary Harvey Ebony Haynes Michaiah Hinds Cynthia M. Hodnett Malik Holt Sade Hood Kiera Hudson Autherine Ikanih Torey Jobe Monique Ingram
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Wendy Isom Kiara Jackson Marcell Lanell Jackson Camille Johnson Fred Jones-Rosa Demond Jude Kendall Keith Kathryn Lanier Camille Lester Justin Lester Robyn Lockett Kara Macon Kayla Madlock Raven Major Nandi Mallett Tre’Quan Martin Billie Jo Mason-Saffold Alice McCoy Collins McClain Trevonte McClain Kharma McGee Kara McKinney James Miller Treba Mitchell Maasio Mohamed
Crystal Morgan Wendmy Nida Moyenga Nathan Nelson Ikenna Obiora Darian Perkins Melissa Pettis Clifton Phelps Levar Pickens Robert Pickens Carter Piggee Denise Pitchford Amber Polk Eva Porter Dominique Portis Lawrence Rabon Knjya Reed Briana Roberts Corbin Robinson DeArquise Robinson Tammy Robinson Angellic Ross Ismel Sahid Shakura Salahaladyn Josephine Scott Avrianne Seals Tanzania Sewell Justine Shorter Donald Singleton Nicole Singleton Alexandria Smith-Richard Lonnie R. Smith Rhonda Stingley Sonia Summers Alyssa Sylvester Courtney Teague Lori Lynn Tharps Verla Thibou Devon Thomas Olivia Thomas Quinton Thomas Nikki Denise Thompson Dalyn Ward Nicole White Aaron Wilder Tabithas Williams Yaaji Williamson Jonathan Woods Deondre Wright Khamaria Wright
Over $550,000 has been provided to area youths to pursue a higher education. 5
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2015 Louvenia Johnson Scholarship Recipients NYAIRAH ABDULLAH is a senior at Riverside High School who has earned a 3.1 GPA. She is regarded by her teachers as a caring student who is dedicated to her studies and to community service. In her spare time, Nyairah volunteers at the Ronald McDonald House and works part-time at the Milwaukee County Zoo. She is also a member of the AAU track & field team at her school. Nyairah is planning to attend the University of Minnesota – Mankato and major in psychology. She aspires to become a behavioral analysis psychologist.
DESTINY DALLAS is a 3.3 honor student at Wauwatosa East High School. She excels in both academics and athletics. Destiny is a member of the National Honors Society, is captain of the girls’ varsity basketball team, and also plays rugby. She serves as a student athletic trainer at school and is active in her church in praise dancing and in the youth choir. Destiny has set her sights on a career in medicine and plans to attend either Spelman College or Howard University in the fall. JAMEA HOOVER is a honor student at Riverside University High School with a 3.6 GPA. She plans to attend University of WisconsinStevens Point in the fall and major in biology. Jamea is a member of the National Honors Society and Riverside’s Link Crew – a student initiative that allows upperclassmen to mentor incoming freshmen and help them navigate the transition to high school. Jamea is also a member of Upward Bound Math & Science at University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee. She aspires to become an obstetrics and gynecology physician.
MICHAH CHILDS is a senior at Brookfield East High School with a 3.16 GPA. He is a linebacker on the school’s football team. Michah credits his parents with instilling in him the will to succeed and the energy to persevere to accomplish a goal. He encourages his fellow students to get a handle on time management and to develop good study habits to succeed in school and in life. Michah plans to attend the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, where he will major in either process engineering or physical therapy.
ASIANE JORDAN is a senior at North Division High School. A 3.4 GPA honor student and selfdescribed leader, Asianae hones her community leadership skills as the president of North Division’s student council government. She is recognized as a student who gives her best effort in whatever she undertakes. Asianae is very involved in her church and serves as a steward and choir director. In the fall of 2015, Asianae will attend Alverno College. She plans to study medicine and become a pediatric physician..
TAMYRA COOPER is a senior at Rufus King International High School with a 3.3 GPA. Tamyra is recognized by her teachers as a strong student who prepares her work well and displays excellent analytical and communications skills. She participates in several community activities, including as a tutor and teachers’ assistant at Brown Street Academy Community Learning Center; and PEARLS for Teen Girls youth leadership development program. Tamyra is interested in a career in some aspect of medicine and plans to attend either Hampton University or Alverno College in the fall.
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2015 Louvenia Johnson Scholarship Recipients STEPHON ROBY is a senior at Riverside University High School with a 3.1 GPA. He is treasurer of the student council government. Stephon is a diligent student who has used his musical talent as the bass drum captain on the school’s drumline ensemble. When he is not participating in drumline performances, Stephon teaches martial arts to children. He has earned a black belt in karate. Stephon plans to attend University of WisconsinMilwaukee and major in business management in the fall of 2015.
BRITTANY SMITH is senior at Bradley Technology & Trade High School with a 3.1 GPA. She is planning to attend Mount Mary University in the fall of 2015. Britany enjoys designing fashions and being a trendsetter. Starting her own clothing business is her dream. Britany is involved in numerous activities at school such as homecoming, senior clothing leadership development and volleyball. She plans to major in business management. RICHARD WILLIAMS is a senior at Milwaukee High School of the Arts with a 3.0 GPA. One of his favorite school activities is forensics, as he says it has helped him develop analytical skills and better understand and appreciate people’s diverse personalities. Richard states that it was his uncle’s expertise as a computer programmer that inspired his interest in video games and how they work. Richard aspires to study video game design and development at the University of Wisconsin-Stout in the fall.
CHIARA SANDERS is a 4.0 honor student at Shorewood High School. She is a member of the school track team and Milwaukee Mustang track organization. As a talented musician, she plays the viola with skill and passion. Chiara is a member of the Shorewood High School Orchestra. She also enjoys writing poetry and working with her school publication. Chiara is employed part-time as a canine assistant for Shorewood Animal Hospital. She has been accepted at Marquette University and University of Wisconsin-Madison. Chiara plans to become a biomedical engineer.
Mrs. Johnson’s legacy
TRENTYN SHAW is a senior at Waukesha West High School with a 3.89 GPA. Trentyn is known by both his teachers and his peers as a hard worker with a polite and respectful demeanor. He competes on his school’s varsity wrestling team, of which he is also captain; and regularly participates in volunteer activities that benefit both his school and the community. At school, he provides companionship to special needs students during lunch hour. Trentyn plans to attend either the University of Minnesota or the University of Alabama in the fall, where he will major in biology/pre-med.
has awarded more than $550,000 to
Milwaukee area students to assist them in their
pursuit of college careers.
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Previous Black Excellence Award Honorees
1986 Janice S. Anderson Jake Beason Rev. Kenneth Bowen Beechie O. Brooks Cecil Brown Lou Burrell Floyd Campbell Fern Caulker-Bronson Diane Cheeks Grant Gordon Susie Harrington Ernest Hendericks Fred Jones Walter L. Jones Tony King Bezelee Martin J. Howard Offutt Joe Sims Frances Brock Starms Alyce Stoney Ruth Tucker Gerald Walker O.C. White Virginia Williams Mattibelle Woods
1987 Elaine Agee Jerry Lynn Berry Ethel Brunner Martin Childs, Sr Hauie Coleman Michelle Crockett Mary Davis Anthony M. Fikes Hoyt Givens Ernestine Griffin Isaac Hatton Frances Jefferson Rayfield Johnson Carol Malloy Rev. Roy Nabors Zella Nash Dr. Ronald Pattillo Clifford Pitts Family Andrew Reneau Leonce Charles Rhodes Gloria Ricks Oscar Shade Joseph C. Thomas Obbie Ward, Jr Alma Jean Watson
1988 John Bowles Cravis Braxton Raymi Brown Dr. Wallace Cheatham Robert Cocroft Vance Coleman John Daniels Family Marvin Echols Marie Gaines Vemice Gallimore Melvin Hall Mildred Harpole Janie Hatton Josephine Henderson W. O. Hoyle George Hughes Mack Hughes Samuel Johnson J. Paul Jordan Maybell Klecky Snow Mitchell Larry Reed Brenda Richards Dr. Harold Rose Bill Taylor
1989 Sandra Butler Agnes Cobbs Tyrone Cook Randy Crump Andrew Douglas Jenelle Elder-Green Howard Fuller William L Gore Tandria Henderson Sherry Hill Emmorie Jenkins William Jenkins Travis Jones Damon Key Rev. John McVicker Rev. Leroy Mixon Dr. Robert Peterkin Glenn Redd Nathan Rideout The Sanders Family Edie Somerville Irina Walker Charles Wallace Richard Williams Virginia Williams Kris World
1990 Dr. Akinshemoyin Clayborn Benson Darrell Brown James Cameron Dennis Daniels Valerie Daniels-Carter Harvey Felder Rev. Ernest Glenn Lorita Hawthorne Gycel Humphrey Rev. C. McClelland Verlee McKinney Julius Morgan Thelma Orr Corrine Owens Lee Palmer Robert Peters Regina Prude T. Rogers Family Floyd Rose Kasandra Rushing Evelyn Terry Michael Vann Ruth Vamado Markus Watts Joe Williams
1991 Quiana Ariana Richard Artison Precious Baldwin James Beckum Kimberly Cheatham Linda Coleman Dana Collins Dr. W. Finlayson Sarah Ford Lincoln Gaines Tarrazonia Green James Hall The Harrell Family Benie Hickman Maggie Honeysucker Mary Mahone John Mosley Clarence Parrish Mildred Parrish Don Rosette Yakini Shabaka Thelma Sias Dr. Sudie Tatum Shannon Tharp Linda Ward Iverson White Henrietta Williams Michaelina Young
1992 Martha Artis Black Nouveau Dr. Lester Carter Frances Huntley-Cooper Susis David Kim Gladney Sarah Grant Edwanike Harbour Wendell Harris Vi Hawkins IraJean Haynes Kenneth C. Holt Don Jackson Gwen Jackson Erica Jackson Karen Johnson Kirk Johnson Robert J. Lanier, Jr. Ricky Norris The Perkins Family Dr. Eugene Pruitt Agnes Rhodes Jeanetta Robinson Gerald Saffold Claretta Simpson Doretha Taylor Tommie Thomas Derrick Triggs
1992 John Williams Sam Williams Gloria Wright Ann Wilson Tom Wynn
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1993 Liller Pearl Bates Felmers O. Chaney Judge Charles Clevert Gerald D. Coleman Mae Demps Rev. Michael Dudley Bessie Gray Reuben Harpole Anita Ivy Horace Lee, Jr. Jacqueline Patterson Joan Prince Skip Robinson John L Ryles Darrell Sewell William Sims Gregory Stanford Dr. Lauree Thomas Djuane Toombs Rev. Barry Ward
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Previous Black Excellence Award Honorees 1994 Stephen P. Adams Lloyd Barbee Shirley Berry Lorraine Carter Trivon Carter Roselyn Clipps Frankie B. Cole Tyrone P. Dumas “Blue” Edwards Saleem El-Amin Manty Ellis Dr. J. Coates-Howell Winona Jackson Cassandra Jenkins Shannon Nicole Miles Cal Patterson Martha Toran Catherine Sidney Charles Warren
1996 1995 Alicetine Ansley League of Martin Alicia Armstrong Atty. Carl Ashely Harriet McCraney William Beckett Kia Cook Milwaukee Chapter of the Kathryn Bonds Adrienne Davis National Black Nurses Moses Bruce Joyce Evans Dru Pasley Flamont Butler Dale Gilliam June Perry Barbara Cassius Cecelia Gore The Honorable Vel Phillips Community Brainstorming Darryl Hamilton Bishop Gertrude Pitts Conference Terrance Hooker Atty. Andrew Reneau Enoch Dukes Isaac Coggs Health Connection, Inc. Dr. John E. Ridley, III Carla Jackson Joyce Feaster Mark Lyons C. Ross Home Health Care Duncan Galloway New Covenant MBC Rev. Louis Sibley, III Penny Goodwin Darwin Sanders Wesley Scott Calvin Greer Mary Schieldge Jim Thompson Eugene Kane Paul T. Spraggins Greg Vaughn Glorious Malone Top Ladies of Distinction Cordelia Taylor Dr. Alonzo Walker Prof. E. Wilson
1997 Aaronetta Anderson Calvin Baker Victor Brazil Sanford Carter Marge Cleghorn The Honorable Marcia P. Coggs Elliott Cohen Marie Crockett Mike Downs Dr. Walter C. Farrell, Jr. Doris Green Julia Harris Charlotte Holloman Willie Jude, Jr. The Honorable Stanley Miller Barbara Powell Alonzo Robinson Deloris Sims Edward Wycliff Smyth J. Allen Stokes Leonard J. Sykes Andrew & Edith Taylor McQuinn Travis Vel Wiley-Hooper Dr. William E. Walker Ella Washington Leon L. Williamson Funeral Home
1998 Willette Bowie Walt Buckhanan City Ballet Theater Ric Cobb Mary Dowell Lindsey D. Draper William P. Evers Harold Gray Thomas Hendricks Pastors Darrell & Pamela Hines Harold B. Jackson, Jr. LaVerne Jackson-Harvey, Ph.D. Ruby Jackson Tannette Johnson-Elie Matthew Johnson Terrell Johnson Jessica Kern Larry Lampkin Patricia McManus, Ph.D. Bernice K. Rose Shirley Sharp Isaac Steele Dr. Estil Strawn, Jr. Dr. Estil Strawn, Sr. John Wallace Abertine Warren Angela White The Rev. Dr. James White Joe Winston Roxanne Woods
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1999 James Causey Thomas Dinkins Ericka Haynes Jerry Johnson Chief Arthur Jones Willie Jude Mildred Leigh-Gold Martha Love The Martin Brothers: Lena’s Kenneth McCants Rev. Trinnette McCray Dr. Warren McIver Al Moreland Vincent Montgomery Tasha Nealey Obadiah Ulice Payne Mac Weddle Mother Naomi Scott Thomas Sprewer Mark Thomas Vic Thomas George Thompson Robin Trammel Tara Pulley Nellie Weddle Judge Maxine White Del Williams Dr. Phoebe Williams Wyman Winston Barbara Wyatt
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Previous Black Excellence Award Honorees 2000
David Banks Vida Harley Bridges Lady Campbell Ernest Chomicki Sherman Claypool Milton Collins John Dowell Andre Lee Ellis George Gary Ernest Gibson Bernice Harris Garry Howard Darlene Howard-Binder Garnetta Jacocks-Moore Louis Johnson, Jr. Oshi Adelabu African American Children’s Theatre Ashley Battle Dewayne Booker Christy Brown Alison Browne Judge Louis Butler Stephanie Butler Brandy Carroll Paige A. Colas Morgan Conyers
2001
Jestene McCord Stanley McWilliams Andre Martin Rev. Harol L. Moore Rosalyn Newton Keith Posley Karma Rodgers Darlene Rose Laura Snyder Sgt. Verbie Swanigan Senait Tesfai Scott Thomas Betty Thompson Darrell Williams
Mike Anderson Konita Jude Elenor Barnes Willie Mae Martin Donald & Cleo Bost Kanisha Miller Rev. & Mrs. Willie F. Brooks Randy Myricks Rev. LeHavre Buck Cheryl Nolan Dr. Keith Crawley Dr. Zettie Page Dr. Charles Crowell Atty. Sheila Parrish-Spence Sheree Dallas Phillip Pitchford David Dorsey Theron Rogers Thomas Foster Johnell Sharp Linda Sowell Dwight Hamilton Grady & Rotine Thomas Roy Hill Marissa Weaver Worthington Hortman Dr. Aquine & Dr. Karen Jackson Dr. Earl Wheatfall Dr. Janine James State Rep. Annette Polly Williams 2002
Paulette Copeland Hattie Daniels Rush Edith Finlayson Tamara Flournoy Mikal Floyd-Pruitt David Green John Givens Erica Hamilton Handsome Barber Shop Emerly Harlan Marqueta Jennings Amanda Johnson
Ben Johnson Ronn Johnson Atty. Leroy Jones Vivian King Jonathan Livingston Long Way Round Clark Lovell Vincent Lyles Berlye Middleton Dave Minor Verona Morgan Yvonne Nealy
Latoya Newsom Yndia Robinson Annettte Rockey Muhammad Sabir Bryant Sanders Joseph Sanders Cagney Scott Vincent Toran Jeffrey Walker Larry Waters Bonnie Jean Williams Ada Wright
2003 Byron Adams David Anderson Fran Ashley-Jordan Corey Benson Evelyn Brown Spring Burgess-Ashley Mary & Loretta Bruce Jeffrey Carter Dr. Tyrone Carter Bailey Coleman Rodney Cooks
Deon Copeland Mesha Davis Rev. Victor Davis Tiffany Donald Travis Evans Lawrence Felton Anitra Ford Berkley Fudge Shelton Gillie James Gordon Alana Hamberlin
Mitchell Avant Latroy Austin Deshawnda Bailey Rev. John Barton Philadelphia C.O.G.I.C. TSgt. Kelly Brown Temu Brown Timothy Carson Dr. Nedra Cobb Dr. Darnell Cole Candace Curtis Octavia Erkins
Malcome Fuller Dextra Hadnot Charles Hall Patrice Harris Rev. Robert Harris Tabernacle Baptist Church James & Mary Henry Joann Henry Courtney Hunt Reginald Layton Myles McKay Roy Nelson
Jerry Ann Hamilton Dr. Jocelyn Pernell-Henderson Dr. Walter Henderson III Ralph Hollmon Terri I Jordan Kay Leopold Bernice Martin Dester Martin Christine Mitchell
Judge Derek Mosley Sable Nelson George Noble II Chucka Obi DeVaughn (Alvin) Powell Evan Reed Brittany Sabir Anthony Smith William Tisdale Willa Townsend Roberta M. Wilkerson
Keshia Newsom Reginald Newson Julia Means Dr. Wayman Parker Charels Rhodes Dr. Rene’ Settle Robinson Margaret Rodgers Robert Rush Mark Sain Gestina Sewell Damon Spurlock Felicia Thomas-Lynn
Maj. Ronald Thomson Ryan Truss Betty Vesey Charles (Butch) Walton Theressia L. Washington J. David Westmoreland Torrie Williams Darius Wright & Bruce Spann Lauri Wynn Hameed Yusuf
2004
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Previous Black Excellence Award Honorees 2005
2006
Darian Anderson Michelle Barnes Teresa Keyia Briggs Bishop Cheryl Brown Alonzo Chapman Stephanie Christian-Lobley LaToya Renee Davis Leo and Janice Eaton Gregory Fanning Darryll Fortune Deidra A. Holt Rev. Archie Ivy Dr. Kevin Izard Dr. Tito Izard Alayna Christine Jenkins Vanessa Key Jeffrey Lewis Karen Lindsey Lloyd
Prentiss McClelland Dr. Darcia Merritt Darrell Middleton Audrey Murphy Jack Orton Robert Pyles Kenyatta Riley Sharon Shultz MSgt. Donald Strickland Rev. Osie Tatum Sheldon Walker Dr. Kimberline Ward Dr. Jaine Washington SSgt. Tremayne E. White
Willie Abney Victor Barnett Charlotte Booker Gary Childs Genye Edwards Mary Evans Rev. Leondis Fuller Melvin and Ruby Grisby Luddie Holmes Dr. Cecelia Howell Canada Ald. Marlene Johnson Odom Albert Keal Roscoe Liston Paul MacKey Dr. Juliette Martin Thomas
2007
Debbie McKay Cedric and Lula Mays & Family Dr. Frank Moffett Excel Moore Heidi Moore Kawanza Newson SSgt. Jimmy Olive Joshua Parish Gerard Randall Albert Smith De’Wayne Smoots Penelope Stewart Una Van DuVall Jamarr C. Vann Martha Wheeler-Fair Atty. Devona Wright Sossie Yorot
2008
Deputy Inspector Georgia M. Newman Denita Renee Ball Gloria Pitchford-Trice Dorothy W. Buckhanan Deputy Chief Rev. Dr. Bennie L. Cleveland, Sr. Monica Ray Sheila D. Cochran Sergeant Linda Reaves Darryl Davidson Rose Richard Marcia E. Facey Brother Bob Smith J. C. Frazier Gaulien Smith Paul Gayle Jeffrey Smith Nathaniel Green Albert Thomas Josephine Hill Gregory T. Ware Bernell Hooker Edith Washington Capt. Darlene Jenkins Deputy Inspector Sergeant LaVerne McCoy Esther Welch Catherine Miles Lt. Tabatha Wheeler Lt. Edith Hudson Sterlon R. White
Emile Banks Yusuf Bashir Freda Fowlkes Bell Ray Bufford Dr. Terrell Cistrunk David Cooks James Cox Jamal Currie Dr. Grace Anne Davis-Harris Leonard Davis Shaleta Dunn J.B. Fisher, III Clarence Garrett Dr. Gloria Gilmer Julietta Henry Dr. Janice Hill
Dr. Chuckson Holloway Holly Hortman Master Sergeant Michelle R. Hunté Aubrey James, Jr. Sylvia Johnson Norma Madison Sharon Mays-Ferguson Jacqueline Moore Herman Orr LaNelle Ramey Don Rosette Sylvester Sims Doris Slaughter Phyllis Spence Bently Turner
2009 Will Allen Cassandra Alston Jean Bell Calvin Milton Cocroft Dorothy Walker Cooper Danae Davis, Esq. Mother Myrtle Mae Davis Tsgt. Clarence Ford
Jerry Fulmer Nichole Gladney Capt. Stephanie Hampton Reynaldo Hernandez Larry Hisle Mazie Jenkins Connie Palmer Jones
Lafayette McKinney & Venora McKinney Dr. Demond Means Det. Stella Payne Terence Ray Atty. Marcel Reneau Willie “Duchie” Rodgers Rev. Lee Shaw
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Perry Stuckey Delta L. Triplett Clifford & Charles Weddle Crystal Williams Jill Williams Venice Williams Lillie B. Wilson William (Billy) Young
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Previous Black Excellence Award Honorees 2010 Deborah Allen Phil Anderson Richard Badger Deborah Blanks Rev. David K. Blathers Rev. Martin Childs, Jr. Faithe Colas Rev. Dr. Hugh Davis, Jr. Janet C. Davis Muhibb Dyer Debra Fields
Darrell Finch Sgt. Kerry Flowers Betty Gillespie Rogerick L. Griffin Beverly D. Hamilton-Williams Mable Hawkins-West Margaret Henningsen Janette Herrera Celeste Hoze
Earl Ingram Michelle L. Johnson Joenette Kelly-Kidd Robert LaGrant Edwina Matthews Warren McDuffie, Sr. Ernie G. Mitchell Marie Newby-Randle Kwabena Antoine Nixon Belinda Pittman-McGee Jermaine Reed
Deloris Sims Dr. Wilma N. Spann Rev. Viviane Thomas-Breitfeld Anisha R. Walton Dr. Alicia Walker Barbara White Yolanda D. White Bernadette Williams
Patricia Matthews Atty. N. Lynnette McNeely Michael Miller Al Moss, Jr. Daphne Moutry Allen Rev. John Patterson Timothy Phillips Melvin Reese Danna Rhinehart
Kimberly Ryan Sandra Scott Retha Simmons Mary Leach Sumlin Mark Wade Addie B. Taylor Williams Carol S. Lewis Williams Diane Wilkins Easton Wright
2011 Bernell Allen Charles Barnett LaTrice D. Buck Hogan Brenda Calhoun Martha Carter Dorcas Denton Joyce Hall Atty. Henry Hamilton, III Jynette (Mitzi) Hamilton
Anthony Higgins Cheryl Hill Clarissia Jackson Tyrene “TJ” Jackson Beulah Johnson Howard Shellie Johnson Dr. George & Dr. Pamela King Bernice Lynch
2012 Officer Monique Woodard Anderson Antonio Avery Brad Anthony Bernard Lucille Berrien Hester Besteda Marques Allan Bland Jerrell Braxton Atty. John Broadnax Deanna S. Burton
Brian Calhoun Monica Claypool Sharron Coffie Rosie Lee Coggs E.B. Garner Emateen Gary Irene Goggans George P. Hinton Phyllis Holder Rev. Geraldine “Gerri” Sheets-Howard
Cecil R. Jackson Ronald “Ron” Johnson Officer Derrick Lemmie Ronald “Ron” Lunford Everett Marshburn Marion McDowell Dr. Clara New Joyce Peoples Fred Royal, Jr. Katina Shaw
Rev. Dr. Nathaniel Stampley Donald Sykes Denisha Tate Linda Wade Rev. Willie D. Wanzo, Sr. Bobbie Webber
Wanda Montgomery Joe V. Nathaniel, Jr. Ras’ Ammar Nsoroma Adrienne Ridgeway Dawn Shelton-Williams Battalion Chief Brian Smith Cynthia Stewart
Diamond Suggs Angela Pittman Taylor Eric Von Rodney and Bettie Wesley Dr. Ken Wheeler Bregetta Wilson Candace Woodring Portia Young
2013 Cleo Adams Sharon and Larry Adams Adekola Adedapo Anthony Caples Atty. Lafayette Crump Geraldine Daniel, RN Dr. Patricia Ellis Atty. Roy B. Evans Ronald Fancher
Sgt. Winfrid Finkley Cristoper Flowers Denotra Griffin-Wallace Alex Hardy Atty. Shelia Hill-Roberts Margaret Hollmon Atty. Lance Jones Dr. Mary Jean Lewis-Jiles Stacey McKay, R.Ph.
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Previous Black Excellence Award Honorees 2014 Barry Applewhite Ofc. Aleia Avant Clover Barnes Jerome Bethea, LPN Linda Bonds Christopher Boston Rev. Willie Brisco Atty. Milton Childs Portia Cobb
Michael Cockroft Erickajoy Daniels Candice R. Dillon Bishop Clayton Duckworth, Sr. Regina Flippin, DPM Melissa Goins Rosha Hamilton
The Honorable Nancy Joseph Ofc. Charles Leach Shawon LeFlore-Turnch Geri L. Lyday Monte Mabra Tim McMurtry, II Rev. Marilyn Miller Thomas E. Mitchell, Jr.
Cynthia Stokes-Murray Patrick-Awuori Mutsune Cory Nettles Mattie Payne Linda Presberry Dr. Ramel Smith Diane Stowers Russell Thomas Daphne Wilson
Our Partners in Excellence The Milwaukee Urban League
Milwaukee Times Team The Milwaukee Times Staff - Michelle Anibas, Robert Bell, William Gooden, Frank James IV, Rev. Judith Lester, Willie Mitchell, George Neal, Angel Reyes, Terry Taylor, Antonio Alexander The Black Excellence Committee - Jacquelyn Heath (Project Manager), Shirley Sharp (Chair), Brenda SheppardNelson, Dawn D. Jackson, Pamela Clark The Writing Team - Jacquelyn Heath, Evelyn Patricia Terry, Michelle Dobbs, Jaye Syc, Steve Waring, Doug Hissom Volunteers - Dawn D. Jackson, Norma Madison, Gregory Fanning, Candice Woodring, Karissa Jackson, Nellie Weddle, Toni Anderson, Pamela Clark, Tamara Crouther, Charlene Golden, Anna Tyler, Greg Toles, Felicia Sharp, Valarie Anderson 13
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Brief History of Black Women in the Military Written by: Kathryn Sheldon, former Curator, Women In Military Service For America Memorial Foundation, Inc.
American women have participated in defense of this nation in both war and peacetime. Their contributions, however, have gone largely unrecognized and unrewarded. While women in the United States Armed Forces share a history of discrimination based on gender, black women have faced both race and gender discrimination. Initially barred from official military status, black women persistently pursued their right to serve. EARLY PATRIOTS No documented records have been discovered of black women’s military service in the American Revolution. They may well have served alongside black men. During the Civil War, black women’s services included nursing or domestic chores in medical settings, laundering and cooking for the soldiers. Indeed, as the Union Army marched through the South and large numbers of freed black men enlisted, their female family members often obtained employment with the unit. The Union Army paid black women to raise cotton on plantations for the northern government to sell. Five black nurses served under the direction of Catholic nuns aboard the Navy hospital ship Red Rover. Four of their names—Alice Kennedy, Sarah Kinno, Ellen Campbell and Betsy Young—have been recorded. Black nurses are in the record books of both Union and Confederate hospitals. As many as 181 black nurses— both female and male—served in convalescent and US government hospitals in Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina during the war.2 Susie King Taylor, Civil War nurse, cook, and laundress, was raised a slave on an island off the coast of Georgia. In April of 1861, Major General Hunter assaulted Fort Pulaski and freed all the slaves in the area, including Mrs. King. When Union officers raised the First South Carolina Volunteers (an all-black unit), Mrs. King signed on as laundress and nurse. Able to read and write, she also set up a school for black children and soldiers. Mrs. King’s experiences as a black employee of the Union Army are recounted in her diary. She wrote of the unequal treatment: The first colored troops did not receive any pay for eighteen months, and the men had to depend wholly on what they received from the commissary...their wives were obliged to support themselves and children by washing for the officers, and making cakes and pies which they sold to the boys in camp. Finally, in 1863, the government decided to give them half pay, but the men would accept none of this... They preferred rather to give their services to the state, which they did until 1864, when the government granted them full pay, with all back due pay. Susie King was never paid for her service. I was very happy to know my efforts were successful in camp, and also felt grateful for the appreciation of my service. I gave my services willingly for four years and three months without receiving a dollar. I was glad, however, to be allowed to go with the regiment, to care for the sick and afflicted comrades. Following the war, Mrs. King established another school for freed slaves. When her husband, Sergeant Edward King of the First South Carolina Volunteers, died in 1866, she collected a widow’s pension. In 1879, she married Russell Taylor. For the remainder of her life, she continued her advocacy for black Civil War troops.
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Immediately following the Civil War, William Cathey enlisted in the United States Regular Army in St. Louis, Missouri. William Cathey, intending to serve three years with the 38th US Infantry, was described by the recruiting officer as 5’9” with black eyes, black hair, and a black complexion. The cursory examination by an Army physician missed the fact that William was actually Cathay Williams, a woman. “William Cathey” served from November 15, 1866, until her discharge with a surgeon’s certificate of disability on October 14, 1868. Despite numerous and often lengthy hospital stays during her service, her sex was not revealed until June 1891, when Cathay Williams applied for an invalid pension and disclosed her true identity. She did not receive the pension, not because she was a woman, but because her disabilities were not service related. Cathay was probably the first black woman to serve in the US Regular Army. SPANISH-AMERICAN WAR During the Spanish-American War, black women served as nurses. The yellow fever and typhoid epidemics led Surgeon General Sternberg and Dr. Anita Newcomb McGee, Acting Assistant Surgeon in charge of nurses, to seek out female “immunes”—women who had survived the disease. On July 13, 1898, Namahyoke Curtis (wife of Dr. Austin Curtis, Superintendent of the Freedman’s Hospital in Washington, DC) was asked to recruit immune nurses. Herself under contract to the Army as an immune nurse, Mrs. Curtis hired 32 black women who were allegedly immune to yellow fever. Most of her recruits went to Santiago, Cuba, in July and August 1898, to serve in the worst of the epidemics. At least two of their number, T.R. Bradford and Minerva Trumbull died from typhoid fever.5 Other black graduate nurses received direct contracts from the Surgeon General for service in the Spanish-American War. Tuskegee Institute records reveal five nursing graduates served in Army camps. Black women nurses were also recruited from the Washington, DC; Freedman’s Hospital, Provident of Chicago; Massachusetts General; Charity Hospital in New Orleans; and the Phyllis Wheatley Training School. As many as 80 black women may have served. WORLD WAR I At the outset of World War I, many trained black nurses enrolled in the American Red Cross hoping to gain entry into the Army or Navy Nurse Corps. As the war escalated, public pressure increased to enlist black women. Finally, shortly after the Armistice, 18 black Red Cross nurses were offered Army Nurse Corps assignments. Assigned to Camp Grant, Illinois, and Camp Sherman, Ohio, they lived in segregated quarters and cared for German prisoners of war and black soldiers. Cessation of hostilities halted plans to assign black nurses to Camp Dodge, Camp Meade, Fort Riley, and Camp Taylor. By August 1919, all black nurses had been released from service as the nursing corps were reduced to their peacetime levels. One of these pioneering women, Aileen Cole Stewart, later wrote: The Story of the Negro nurse in World War I is not spectacular. We arrived after the Armistice was signed, which alone was anticlimactic. So we had no opportunity for “service above and beyond the call of duty;” But each one of us...did contribute quietly and with dignity to the idea that justice demands professional equality for all qualified nurses. Following the war, demand for a permanent place for black women nurses in the military nursing corps continued. In replying to one such request from Congressman Somers, Colonel C.R. Darnell, Executive Officer, Army Medical Corps, wrote: The question of opening the Nurse Corps to...colored nurses has from time to time received the serious consideration of this office; but because of the necessity...of arranging their tours of duty in various regions of the United States as well as in our overseas dependencies[,] and of the difficulty if not impossibility of arranging proper quarters and messing facilities for them[,] their employment has been found impracticable in time of peace. You may rest assured that when military conditions make it practicable...to utilize colored nurses they will not be overlooked.
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Black women served their country in other capacities. Four black women were among the 3,480 “Y” women volunteers who helped soldiers and sailors overseas. At the request of the Army, the YMCA provided recreation for the American Expeditionary Force by staffing canteens, nursing, sewing, baking, and providing amusement and educational activities for the soldiers. WORLD WAR II In January 1941, the Army opened its nurse corps to blacks but established a ceiling of 56. On June 25, 1941, President Roosevelt’s Executive Order 8802 created the Fair Employment Practices Commission which led the way in eradicating racial discrimination in the defense program. In June 1943, Frances Payne Bolton, Congresswoman from Ohio, introduced an amendment to the Nurse Training Bill to bar racial bias. Soon 2,000 blacks were enrolled in the Cadet Nurse Corps. The quota for black Army Nurses was eliminated in July 1944. More than 500 black Army nurses served stateside and overseas during the war. The Navy dropped its color ban on January 25, 1945, and on March 9, Phyllis Daley became the first black commissioned Navy nurse. Black women also enlisted in the WAAC (Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps) which soon converted to the WAC (Women’s Army Corps), the Navy WAVES (Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service), and the Coast Guard SPARS. From its beginning in 1942, black women were part of the WAAC. When the first WAACs arrived at Fort Des Moines, Iowa, there were 400 white and 40 black women. Dubbed “ten-percenters,” recruitment of black women was limited to ten percent of the WAAC population—matching the black proportion of the national population. Enlisted women served in segregated units, participated in segregated training, lived in separate quarters, ate at separate tables in mess halls, and used segregated recreation facilities. Officers received their officer candidate training in integrated units, but lived under segregated conditions. Specialist and technical training schools were integrated in 1943. During the war, 6,520 black women served in the WAAC/WAC. Black women were barred from the WAVES until October 19, 1944. The efforts of Director Mildred McAfee and Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune helped Secretary of the Navy Forrestal push through their admittance. The first two black WAVES officers, Harriet Ida Pikens and Frances Wills, were sworn in December 22, 1944. Of the 80,000 WAVES in the war, a total of 72 black women served, normally under integrated conditions. The Coast Guard opened the SPARS (from the Coast Guard motto Semper Paratus, “Always Ready”) to black members on October 20, 1944, but only a few actually enlisted. THE PATH TO FULL INTEGRATION Following World War II, racial and gender discrimination, as well as segregation persisted in the military. Entry quotas and segregation in the WAC deterred many from re-entry between 1946 and 1947. By June 1948, only four black officers and 121 enlisted women remained in the WAC. President Truman eliminated the issues of segregation, quotas and discrimination in the armed forces by signing Executive Order 9981 on July 26, 1948. WACs began integrated 16
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training and living in April 1950. Meanwhile, on January 6, 1948, Ensign Edith De Voe was sworn into the Regular Navy Nurse Corps and in March, First Lieutenant Nancy C. Leftenant entered the Regular Army Nurse Corps, becoming the corps’ first black members. Affirmative action and changing racial policies opened new doors for black women. During the Korean and Vietnam Wars, black women took their places in the war zone. Chief Warrant Officer Doris Allen recalled: As a senior intelligence analyst in Vietnam, I was recognized as having been responsible through production of one specific intelligence report, for saving the lives of “at least” 101 United States Marines fighting in Quanq Tri Province.... During my years of service I survived many prejudices against me as a woman, as a WAC, me as a soldier with the rank of specialist, me as an intelligence technician and me as a Black woman; but all of the prejudices were overshadowed by a wonderful camaraderie. On July 15, 1964, Margaret E. Bailey became the first black nurse promoted to lieutenant colonel in the Army Nurse Corps and would later become the first black colonel. Hazel W. Johnson became the first black woman general officer on September 1, 1979, when she assumed the position of Chief of the Army Nurse Corps. HONORING BLACK WOMEN’S SERVICE Charity Adams Earley, commander of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion in World War II, summarized the history of women in the military when she wrote in 1989: The future of women in the military seems assured.... What may be lost in time is the story of how it happened. The barriers of sex and race were, and sometimes still are, very difficult to overcome, the second even more than the first. During World War II women in the service were often subject to ridicule and disrespect even as they performed satisfactorily.... Each year the number of people who shared the stress of these accomplishments lessens. In another generation young black women who join the military will have scant record of their predecessors who fought on the two fronts of discrimination—segregation and reluctant acceptance by males. Brigadier General Hazel W. Johnson-Brown, USA NC (Ret.), a groundbreaker herself, told attendees at the Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Women In Military Service For America Memorial on June 22, 1995: “In the past, women, particularly minority women, have always responded when there was a crisis or need. We acknowledge all minority women in uniform, both present in this audience and not present. You are the strength of our success. You represent the patchwork quilt of diversity which is America—race, creed, color and ethnicity.”
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Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing
Often called “The Negro National Anthem” — was written as a poem by James Weldon Johnson (1871-1938) and then set to music by his brother John Rosamond Johnson (1873-1954) in 1900.
Lift ev’ry voice and sing, till earth and Heaven ring, Ring with the harmonies of liberty; Let our rejoicing rise, high as the listening skies, Let it resound loud as the rolling sea. Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us, Sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us; Facing the rising sun of our new day begun, Let us march on till victory is won. Stony the road we trod, bitter the chastening rod, Felt in the days when hope unborn had died; Yet with a steady beat, have not our weary feet, Come to the place for which our fathers sighed? We have come over a way that with tears has been watered, We have come, treading our path through the blood of the slaughtered; Out from the gloomy past, till now we stand at last Where the white gleam of our bright star is cast. God of our weary years, God of our silent tears, Thou Who hast brought us thus far on the way; Thou Who hast by Thy might, led us into the light, Keep us forever in the path, we pray. Lest our feet stray from the places, our God, where we met Thee. Lest our hearts, drunk with the wine of the world, we forget Thee. Shadowed beneath Thy hand, may we forever stand, True to our God, true to our native land.
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Keynote Speaker - Clarence A. Johnson Office of Diversity Management and Equal Opportunity U.S. Department of Defense
In February 2003, Clarence A. Johnson was selected to the Senior Executive Service and assigned as Principal Director and Director for Civilian Equal Employment Opportunity, Office of the Deputy Under Secretary of Defense (Equal Opportunity) at the Pentagon; the office was renamed in 2006 to the Office of Diversity Management and Equal Opportunity. In that capacity, he is responsible for the development and coordination of diversity management and equal opportunities policies and programs affecting all Department of Defense (DoD) civilian employees and military personnel within DoD worldwide. He also provides staff supervision of the Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute (DEOMI), a 100-member institution, located at Patrick Air Force Base, Florida, which is the premiere DoD school in equal opportunity and equal employment opportunity training, education and research. Mr. Johnson serves as principal advisor to the Under Secretary of Defense (Personnel & Readiness) on diversity management, equal opportunity and equal employment opportunity matters. In January 2009, Mr. Johnson was selected to a special temporary assignment, where he stood up a permanent organization with a key requirement to oversee policies that ensure support for our wounded, ill and injured service members, veterans and their families. Supporting the Secretary’s priorities, the organization he built, the Executive Secretariat (Senior Oversight Committee and Joint Executive Council)/Office of Strategic Planning and Performance Management (ES), served as the key forcing function for integrating DoD and Veterans Affairs (VA) activities. From May 2009 until February 2010, Mr. Johnson was chosen to serve as the Acting Deputy Under Secretary of Defense. In that key role, he provided leadership and oversight of all USD (P&R) Plans functions. From May 2010 until July 2010, Mr. Johnson was again designated as the Acting Deputy Under Secretary of Defense. In October 2010, Mr. Johnson was detailed as the Special Assistant to the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army (Diversity and Leadership) to assist the Army in implementing a robust diversity strategy. He stood up a Division, Diversity and EEO Policy and Programs, where he served as its Director until his return in February 2012 to his present position as Director, Office of Diversity Management and Equal Opportunity. Before serving the Department of Defense as a civil servant, Mr. Johnson was an active duty Air Force colonel serving in the Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Equal Opportunity as Director, Military Equal Opportunity. In that capacity, he formulated and provided policy guidance to the military components regarding policies and programs which prescribe, promote, coordinate and enforce equal opportunity and treatment of active duty and Reserve component military personnel; oversaw policy implementation and evaluated/monitored the performance of DoD component programs; and provided staff oversight for DEOMI. Mr. Johnson entered active duty service as a C141 navigator. In addition to global airlift and contingency operations, his tours of duty included the Military Airlift Command Plans staff and Air Staff Training (ASTRA). He was a squadron commander three times and a group commander twice. Additionally, he held increasingly responsible positions at the headquarters and installation level. His decorations include the Defense Superior Service Medal (with one Oak Leaf Cluster), the Legion of Merit, and the Meritorious Service Medal (with three oak leaf clusters). Mr. Johnson earned a master’s degree in human resource management from Webster University, Missouri, and a bachelor’s degree in biology from Tuskegee Institute, Alabama. Mr. Johnson is also a graduate of Air Command and Staff College and the Air War College, Alabama, and the National Security Management Course, National Defense University. 19
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30th Annual Black Excellence Awards Program Welcome ..................................................................................................... Patrick Paolantonio, Melinda Davenport WISN 12 Processional .................................................................................................. 30th Annual Black Excellence Honorees Louvenia Johnson Scholarship Recipients Musical Selection .........................................“The Star Spangled Banner”..................................... Byron Jones, Pianist Black National Anthem .................................“Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing”..................................... Byron Jones, Pianist Greetings ............................................................................................................................. Brenda Sheppard-Nelson Administrator, Milwaukee Sign Language School Mayor Tom Barrett Invocation ........................................................................................................................ Reverend Andrew Calhoun Lt. Commander, Chaplain, U.S. Navy Veteran Pastor, Grace Fellowship Church of Milwaukee DINNER Musical Selection ................................................................................ Milwaukee High School of the Arts Ensemble Charisma Carson, Robert Martin, Kaprice Maxwell, Darius Stokes Introduction of Keynote Speaker ....................................................................... Brigadier General Robert A. Cocroft President / CEO of the Center for Veterans Issues, Limited Keynote Address ......................................................................................................................... Clarence A. Johnson Office of Diversity Management and Equal Opportunity U.S. Department of Defense Louvenia Johnson Tribute ..................................................................................... Nathan Conyers, Jacquelyn Heath Louvenia Johnson’s Legacy Presentations: Louvenia Johnson Scholarship Awards ............................................................................................. Morgan Conyers Educator, Parkview Elementary School Erik Conner Principal, William Cullen Bryant School Arthur and Mary Reid Proprietors, Reid’s New Golden Gate Funeral Home, Inc. 30th Annual Black Excellence Honorees ..................................................... Patrick Paolantonio, Melinda Davenport WISN 12 Special Honorees: “Women in the Military” ............................................... Patrick Paolantonio, Melinda Davenport WISN 12 Closing Remarks .................................................................................................................... Lynda Jackson Conyers Milwaukee Times President & Publisher Jacquelyn Heath Black Excellence Awards Project Manager Special thanks to Brigadier General Robert A. Cocroft, Richard Rodgers and Reverend Andrew Calhoun for their assistance. 20
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WOMEN IN THE MILITARY Major Michelle Carter U.S. Army Reserve & National Guard Major Michele Carter served her country through the Army Reserve AND THEN in the Army National Guard. Now firmly entrenched in her civilian career as the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program Chief at the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), US Army veteran Michele Carter served 23 years of enlisted and commissioned military service in the US Army Reserve and National Guard. She retired as a Major in the Chemical Corps in 2008. During her military career, Michele received more than ten awards for exemplary service and distinguished achievement including the Army Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal and numerous Army Achievement Medals.
WOMEN IN THE MILITARY Captain Berdie Cowser - U.S. Army Retired Army Captain Berdie L. Cowser is Director of the Bureau of Milwaukee Transitional Housing Programs and Services and forged side-by-side military and academic careers until 2009, when she ended her military career. Berdie began her civilian career as a safety services case manager for the Bureau of Milwaukee Child Welfare in 2000. She then moved to the Center for Veterans Issues, Ltd., in 2001. She was promoted from case manager to supportive services supervisor in 2004. She continued her tenure with the Center for Veterans Issues, Ltd. Her present responsibilities as bureau director include providing oversight and control for more than 50 personnel —staff, transitional job participants, interns, volunteers and the supervision of wrap around services for more than 200 veterans on any given night.
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WOMEN IN THE MILITARY Staff Sergeant Lisa Cross - U.S. Army Reserve Serving her country for 16 years, Army Staff Sergeant Lisa C. Cross joined the United States Army Reserve in high school in 1980. She received a Bronze Star in 1991 for acts of meritorious service in a combat zone. Artistically accomplished, personable and confident, she served as the only soldier with advanced Auto CAD training and Special Background Investigation clearances during her tour of duty. Now as a civilian and devoted member of the National Association for Black Veterans, Inc. for over 10 years, Lisa assists other veterans as she volunteers in her local community. Beneficiaries of her selfless service included the Center for Veterans Issues, Ltd., Common Ground. She enjoys seeing people prosper. Lisa even wrote to President Barack Obama suggesting ideas to better the United States of America, to which he responded in writing.
WOMEN IN THE MILITARY Master Chief Mary Catherine Fowlkes - U.S. Coast Guard It’s no surprise that retired Coast Guard Master Chief Mary C. Fowlkes pursued education and military service as dual careers. During her first teaching assignment at Racine Horlick High School, she joined the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve in 1983. In 2008, she became the first African American female U.S. Coast Guard reservist to earn the rank of Master Chief. In 1986, she began teaching in Milwaukee Public Schools at Jackie Robinson Middle School and transferred to Riverside University High School, her alma mater, in 1991. Displaying a wealth of dedication and involvement with RUHS students, in 2012, she assisted Habitat for Humanity in building a home with funds raised by the student council. She chaperoned students for tours to historically black colleges and universities, and even now, continues to chaperone field trips. 21
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WOMEN IN THE MILITARY Major Dorothy Greer - U.S. Army Presently a Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) clinical nurse instructor for the Licensed Practical Nurse Program, retired Army Major Dorothy Greer entered the United States Army Reserve as a direct commissioned officer because she has an associate degree in nursing. Her 24 years of military service garnered an Army Commendation Medal, four Army Reserve Components Achievement Medals, two National Defense Service Medals, an Armed Forces Reserve Achievement Medal, an Army Service Ribbon, and two Overseas Service Ribbons. As a civilian, Dorothy has also served as a nurse for the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Department. Dorothy is the widow of turner and wood artisan Calvin Greer. She has two sons, Calvin Ashanti Greer, who is married to Kimberly Greer; and Christopher Greer, along with 6 grandchildren.
WOMEN IN THE MILITARY Technical Sergeant Linder Jines - U.S. Air Force Air Force Technical Sergeant Linder L. Jines served with the 440th Airlift Wing of the U.S. Air Force Reserves for 21 years before retiring in 2007. She was based at the Air Reserve Station at General Mitchell International Airport until the 440th relocated to Pope Air Force Base in Fayetteville, NC. She is currently a U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission budget analyst. Her military career began in 1986 following her graduation from Bradley Trade and Technical High School in 1983. Initially assigned to the 95th Aerial Port Squadron (APS) as an air cargo specialist, she transferred later to the 34th APS unit as an air transportation specialist, and then became a passenger services technician. Currently Linder is a budget analyst for the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
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WOMEN IN THE MILITARY Corporal Michelle Lipsey - U.S. Marine Corps Retired with the rank of Corporal in the United States Marine Corps, Michelle D. Smith Lipsey is now Administrative Assistant to the Clerk of Court for the U.S. District Court Eastern District of Wisconsin. This position reflects her accumulated wealth of experience, values and dedication to excellence. The Milwaukee native graduated from Riverside University High School in 1988 and enlisted with the United States Marine Corps in 1989. Stationed with the 1st Supply Battalion, 1st Force Service Support Group at Camp Pendleton, CA, she served as a Supply Administration & Operations Clerk with the Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) Code 3043 and completed active duty in 1993.
WOMEN IN THE MILITARY Petty Officer 2nd Class Virdia Ofei - U.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class, Virdia Afi Ofei is 7 years into her Navy career. She decided long before enlisting at 32 years old, she wanted to serve her country, reach her full potential and see the world. Presently living in Franklin, WI, she wanted to be near her Chicago family and at the same time live somewhere new. Since 2013 has worked at Chicago District Navy Recruiting Station, in Greenfield, WI. She sees herself as the bridge between what the Navy needs and what individuals need. Through the Navy’s Core Values honor, courage and commitment, she says that she “take care of future sailors like family, as I teach them, they represent the Navy and their family members back home. They learn discipline, the benefit of hard work and to depend on themselves and their instincts.
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WOMEN IN THE MILITARY Captain Sedoria Outlaw - U.S. Army Captain Sedoria L. Outlaw accomplished extraordinary military and civilian careers. In 2013-2014 she deployed to the Middle East in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Upon returning to civilian life, her 21-year Army and mental health career paths merged, resulting in a promotion to Director of Education and Training at the Center for Veterans Issues, Ltd. A Licensed Minister at Bethel Apostolic Church, Sedoria promotes spiritual health and wellness through community service by guiding individuals locally, nationally and internationally. She says, “Excellence to me is summoned up through the Army motto, ‘Never Accept Defeat.’ Barriers are eliminated with hard work, determination and education. Nothing beats a failure accept a try. God first in everything and excellence will follow.
WOMEN IN THE MILITARY Master Sergeant Barbara Robinson - U.S. Air Force & Army Veteran Barbara G. Robinson desires to always be in position to help others. Beginning her 23-year military career in 1982, she achieved the rank of U.S. Air Force Reserve Master Sergeant (E-7), transferred to the Army, and reenlisted in the Air Force Reserve. She embraces the Air Force’s core values, summed up by the French adage “esprit de corps” meaning “a sense of unity.” She completed her 6-year enlistment at Milwaukee’s former 440th General Mitchell Air Base. Then she enlisted in the U.S. Army for active duty in 1988 to gain access to law enforcement. She reenlisted in the Air Force reserve in 1992, and retired in 2007. During that time, in 1995, she began a MPD police officer civilian career and retired in 2012.
ARTS Dr. Laci Coppins - Milwaukee Art Museum Laci Coppins Ed.D., is a photographic, mixed media, and installation artist working primarily in themes related to faith, family, and inter generational connections. She received a BA degree in English from Fisk University, a post-baccalaureate in Fine Art with an emphasis in Photography from Studio Arts Centers International, and both a Masters and Doctorate in Education from Trevecca Nazarene University. Laci has participated as a guest artist with Alverno College, the Milwaukee Art Museum, Marquette University, The City of Milwaukee and Northwestern University. She was most recently named the 2014 Robert S. Duncanson Artist in Residence at the Taft Museum of Art in Cincinnati, OH.
COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP Rodney Bourrage, Sr. - Operation Dream, Inc. Rodney Bourrage, Sr., who is founder and CEO of Operation Dream, Incorporated. “Dream” is actually an acronym for “Discipline, Respect, Education, Appreciation and Mentoring.” The organization started working with two boys and now has drawn more than 200 participants ages 4 through 19 from throughout the City of Milwaukee. Together they engage in a variety of structured educational, recreational, life-skills and character-building activities to learn how to turn their dreams into a worthwhile reality.
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Black Excellence Honorees
COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP Kelly Winfrey - Milwaukee Brotherhood of Firefighters Kelly Winfrey and his two brothers grew up on Milwaukee’s northwest side during the 1970s. As a firefighter he sees a lot of tragedy. As a man he feels he has been blessed with much. The lack of opportunities he sees for youth growing up now in his old neighborhood was something that increasingly bothered him. Kelly, and Jared Triplett, own and manage two adult family homes where residents with developmental disabilities and brain diseases can find a home. Flagg Street Manor, LLC, currently provides beds for 10 recipients, but the two partners have plans to expand. Six years ago Kelly made a another commitment when he agreed to provide on-site medical care for a free week-long basketball clinic sponsored by “34 Ways to Assist,” a basketball/education program run by Milwaukeean NBA star Devin Harris of the Dallas Mavericks.
COMMUNITY SERVICE Min. Greg Lewis - Pastors United Greg Lewis is the Assistant Pastor at Saint Gabriel Church of God in Christ and a community organizer. After spending time in Milwaukee organizing and working with many local organizations, he founded Pastors United, a group that has grown from 64 members to 360 in two years. The group focuses on five essential areas of growth in Milwaukee: Family Structure, Health and Wellness, Economic Development, Crime/Incarceration and Evangelism/Prayer. Greg earned a bachelor’s degree from Charles Harrison Mason System of Bible Colleges and a master’s degree from the Wisconsin University of Theology.
COMMUNITY SERVICE Sherri Daniels - Pathfinders Sherri Daniels is a program coordinator for Pathfinders, a Milwaukee organization that serves at-risk youth. A resident of the Hillside Terrace housing project just north of the downtown area, Sherri has got her start in community building as a parent coordinator for Maryland Avenue School. Her skill at getting people involved and marshalling resources lead to her election to the Hillside Terrace Resident Organization in 1992, becoming its president in 1995. Sherri now serves on the board of commissioners for the Housing Authority of the City of Milwaukee, and is city-wide advisory board chair of that agency.
CORPORATE TRAILBLAZERS Audrey Sellers - Tri City National Bank Audrey Sellers is currently a Vice President at Tri City Bank. Rising in the ranks of banking, Audrey has worked with US Bank, Wells Fargo, North West Financial, GE Medical (Finance division) and started at North Milwaukee State Bank. She earned a degree in Finance, with a minor in Economics from Carroll University. She serves on the board of the Riverside High School Foundation (her alma mater), chair of the Finance and Personnel Committee for the board of Milwaukee Health Services, and is board chair for the African American Chamber of Commerce Revolving Loan Fund. She has two daughters— Simone, a freshman at Alabama State University, and Shelby, a sophomore at Brown Deer High School.
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Black Excellence Honorees
CORPORATE TRAILBLAZERS Randy Bryant - Ten Chimneys Foundation Randy Bryant is an architectural preservationist and historian who served as the President of the board of Directors and Interim Executive Director of the Milwaukee County Historical Society before joining the Ten Chimneys Foundation, where he works to preserve and cultivate the legacy of Alfred Lunt and his wife Lynn Fontanne through arts education. Randy is experienced with working at the executive level, holding a variety of senior level positions in Brazil, Spain and England for Motorola, Inc. His community leadership has benefitted Milwaukee organization such as: the City of Milwaukee Historic Preservation Commission, Milwaukee Art Museum, Preserve Our Parks, Milwaukee Repertory Theater, Milwaukee County Landmark Commission, Coalition for Historic Preservation and Economic Development, and the Historic Preservation Committee of Historic Milwaukee, Inc.
CORPORATE TRAILBLAZERS Demetrius Mack - ProHealth Care Demetrius Mack concluded that his vocation was in nursing while still in college in Alabama. He received his Licensed Practical Nurse degree in 1988 from Shelton State Community College. When he relocated to Milwaukee in 1988, he quickly found work in a nursing home. Demetrius made a transition from active nursing to health administration in 2000 when he became administrative assistant at Summit Women’s Health. He accepted his first position with ProHealth Care Medical Associates as laboratory team leader in 2005. Last year he was promoted to Site Supervisor of Lab and Medical Staff, at one of the local walk-in clinic sites of ProHealth Care Medical Associates, headquartered in Waukesha. Ernest also is actively involved in local community affairs and promoting the arts.
CORPORATE TRAILBLAZERS Ernest W. Colburn - Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare Ernest W. Colburn is Lead Patient Care Supervisor for Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare System. He earned a nursing degree from Milwaukee Area Technical College and is a certified trauma care nurse. He also earned a bachelor’s degree from Concordia University and is currently completing a masters degree in public Health. Ernest has been repeatedly recognized for his volunteer contributions, especially for his work mentoring young African American persons starting out in the corporate world. He is a member of the Interdenominational Church of the One Lost Sheep on Milwaukee’s north side.
EDUCATION Martha Miles - Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) Martha Miles teaches kindergarten at Parkview Elementary, an MPS school located on the city’s far northwest side. Martha is known as a skilled educator who sets high standards and nurtures a love of learning and a sense of self-esteem in her young charges. Her methods must be working. According to results of standardized tests, Martha’s kindergartners scored highest in reading and math of all students in all grade levels at the school. Martha attends Gospel Lutheran Church. She helps out as secretary, serves on the food pantry organizing committee, has served as a church youth choir leader for more than 20 years and has taught vacation bible school.
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Black Excellence Honorees
EDUCATION Dr. Janice Pugh - Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) Dr. Janice R. Pugh grew up in poverty in Milwaukee during the 1970s, one of seven children raised by Jimmie and Tressie Pugh. Tressie instilled a love of teaching and the courage to believe in your dreams in her older daughter, Janice. Her quest to become a teacher was deferred for a while when she left school and went to work for a custodial company. She thought she was building a solid career with a dependable employer, but after nine years she said she was passed over for a promotion which by seniority belonged to her. The slight eventually led to her earning her BA in education from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 2000 and she immediately began teaching in the Milwaukee Public School System. Since then she has been involved in a number of creative volunteer projects to help broaden the horizons of her students’ dreams.
EXTRAORDINARY ACHIEVEMENT Steven Tipton, Sr. and Steven Tipton, Jr. Meet the father and son team of Steven Tipton, Sr. and Steven Tipton, Jr. A Caribbean family vacation sparked the compassion to launch an outreach to put shoes on the feet of poor people in Haiti. Steven Jr. came up with the idea of collecting gently used shoes from friends, classmates and neighbors to share them with people who have little. The “STEP UP SHOE DRIVE” was born, with the goal of collecting 1,000 pairs of shoes. When the drive ended, the Tiptons had collected 15,000 pairs of shoes. Steven Sr. was able to arrange for the shipping costs to be covered by in-kind and cash donations as well. The Tipton men count on Dr. Marica Tipton for support and inspiration. In addition to being a psychology instructor at MATC and a clinical psychologist in private practice, Marica supports Steven Sr. and Steven Jr. as wife and mother.
HEALTH Dr. Dessie Levy - Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) Dr. Dessie Levy is Dean of the School of Health Sciences at Milwaukee Area Technical College where, in 2005 she became the first African American to attain that position in the state of Wisconsin. She is a registered nurse with degrees in both nursing and health administration, and has a specialty as a women’s health nurse practitioner. Dessie is married to the Rev. Dr. Garry Levy, pastor of True Love Missionary Baptist Church and President of the General Baptist State Convention of WI, Inc. She is active in Sunday school and Bible study, church administration, counseling, mission and Christian education. Together the Rev. and Mrs. Levy have three children and five grandchildren.
HEALTH Gina Green Harris - Medical College of Wisconsin Gina Green-Harris is Director of Milwaukee Outreach Program and Services, University of Wisconsin-Madison. She works through the Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Institute at the UW-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health. Among her projects was a collaboration between the University and Milwaukee Health Services, Inc. to establish a minorityspecific memory clinic to offer services to patients and families dealing with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Gina found her passion in working to fight HIV /AIDS in the African American community in her senior year of college and came to see her passion as a calling – minority health. She later earned a master’s in business administration from Franklin University in Columbus, OH.
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Black Excellence Honorees
LAW Atty. Vada Waters Lindsey - Marquette University Being a tax attorney may not seem like one of the more glamorous aspects of legal practices, but Vada Waters Lindsey said after an epiphany in law school at DePaul University in Chicago, “I was hooked and developed a lifelong passion for tax law. I took every possible tax class at DePaul.” She is now a tax professor at Marquette University. Vada also took that tax knowledge to the street, forming the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program at Marquette in 2004. She was hired at MU as a professor in 1996. The VITA program helped 1,000s of low income and elderly get the most out of their tax returns. In 2012 she was honored by the U.S. Postal Service for one of 14 “Women Putting Their Stamp on Metro Milwaukee” for the program. As of June, Vada also took on the title of Associate Dean for Enrollment at Marquette.
LAW Atty. Bettie Rodgers - Attorney-at-Law Bettie Rodgers is an attorney with a vested interest in the community. She received her Juris Doctor degree from Marquette University in May, 1990. Bettie also earned master’s and bachelor’s degrees in social welfare from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, and is a licensed clinical social worker. She provides legal representation in the areas of estate planning, elder law, probate practice, guardianships for adults, Chapter 7 and 13 bankruptcy, family law, and personal injuries. Bettie is a member of the State Bar of Wisconsin, the Thomas F. Fairchild Inns of Court, the American Bar Association, and the National Association of Elder Law Attorneys. When she is not practicing law, Bettie volunteers with a variety of organizations and causes that combine her knowledge of the law and health and human services.
MEDIA Yvonne Kemp - Milwaukee Community Journal After a 30-year career as an accountant, Yvonne Kemp accepted an offer from her brother, renowned photographer Harry Kemp, to work as his assistant. Yvonne initially handled scheduling and accounting for her brother, but soon caught the photography bug from Harry, who began to pass on his extensive knowledge of photography. When Harry died, Yvonne stepped in to fulfill some of his contracts, including the Milwaukee Brewers and Milwaukee Community Journal. Nearly a decade and a half later, she has emerged as one of the city’s most prominent photographers. Yvonne plans to form the Harry Kemp Foundation to introduce photography to African Americans as an art and profession. She expanded her resume from commercial and newspaper photography to include creative works that have earned national recognition.
MEDIA Brad Pruitt - Independent Filmmaker In 2002, Brad Pruitt won a regional Emmy from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. While most filmmakers would move to Los Angeles to guarantee success, Brad decided to stay in Milwaukee. “I am very invested and committed to Milwaukee and working around the development of art and artists here in this city.” In 2013, he produced “Bending Toward the Light,” a documentary on the state of education. He said he came away haunted by what he found in the present. “We are depending more and more on them to provide the primary system of care,” he said. “That is making it harder for teachers to educate. “We are all going to have to take responsibility if we want to improve the state of education,” he said.
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Black Excellence Honorees
MINORITY BUSINESS Arthur Reid, Jr. and Mary Smith-Reid Reid’s New Golden Gate Funeral Home Arthur Reid, Jr. and Mary Smith-Reid own and operate Reid’s New Golden Gate Funeral Home, with two north side Milwaukee locations and one in Racine, WI. Arthur and Mary have forged a successful business and personal partnership, but to them, being successful in business and in life must include giving back to their community. Since 2011, they have partnered with The Milwaukee Times Weekly Newspaper to donate laptops to the Milwaukee area college-bound high school seniors tapped by the newspaper as Louvenia Johnson Scholars as part of its annual Black Excellence Awards. The couple also helps to sponsor field trips and donate to youth causes through their church, St. Matthew Christian Methodist Episcopal Church on Milwaukee’s north side.
MEDIA Cary Edwards - WISN TV 12 During his career, Cary Edwards has covered countless breaking news stories as well as the 1982 Brewers’ pennant race and the 1984 and 2012 Democratic National Conventions. He began studying photography and cinematography at MATC, graduating in 1976. While working for WISN-TV in Milwaukee and WBZ-TV in Boston, Cary took a Holy Land tour to Israel with Reggie White of the Green Bay Packers. He has photographed many famous figures and produced and shot video for a 1990s television news series, “Rays of Hope” for WISN-TV that covered Milwaukee residents doing good things in our community. He strives to focus on people who don’t usually get press. His wife Bonnie says he uses his compassion and unique perspective to help others understand themselves.
MUSIC Delbert Utsey, Jr. Delbert Utsey, Jr. received bachelor’s of science and a master’s of information science from UW-Milwaukee, along with a master’s in business administration from Marquette University. He is currently employed as a Project Manager for Fidelity Information Services (FIS), a global company where he provides digital solutions for banks and mobile devices. His passion lies in his work as the Minister of Music at New Hope Missionary Baptist Church. He has thirty eight years of experience as a church musician and is experienced in integrating new music into worship services, working around the city for worship services and special events.
MINORITY BUSINESS Wanda Scruggs - Scruggs And Sons Shoe Repair Wanda Scruggs owns Scruggs and Sons Shoe Repair on North Teutonia Avenue, the only Black-owned shoe repair shop in Wisconsin. The business was started by Wanda’s father and brothers, and now her daughter and grandsons are working in the business, too. They keep the craft of “shoe cobbler” alive and well here in Milwaukee. Wanda was in her late 20s when she started working as a cobbler under her father’s guidance. Her dad died in 1976 and she took over the business. Wanda is president of the Board of Directors of the Wisconsin Shoe Industry, an honorary member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity recipient of numerous certificates of appreciation by the Abundant Life Church of God In Christ, and most notably the Nationwide Register’s Who’s Who in Executives & Businesses.
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Black Excellence Honorees
RELIGION RELIGION Reverend Robert Sims - Bethesda Baptist Church Reverend J. Anthony Phillips - Blessed Deliverance Baptist Church The year was 1972 when the Rev. Robert Sims, then just a J. Anthony Phillips has worked and lived in Milwaukee since 34-year-old high school graduate and 15-year veteran machinist leaving the US Navy. He spent his career in intergenerational with Caterpillar Tractor Co., in Milwaukee, preached to a care and has taken that knowledge with him as he has gone congregation for the first time. “My pastor at Providence Baptist on to be a full-time Pastor of Blessed Deliverance Baptist Church gave me my first opportunity to preach,” Pastor Sims Church. He formerly was vice president of human resources said. “I was nervous. I was shaking, but I got through it. I was at St. Ann’s Center For Intergenerational Care in Milwaukee, glad to get the first one over in a way,” he said chuckling. Pastor WI. He earned a bachelor’s degree in religion, and a master’s Sims began attending church regularly and assisting as an usher in psychology from Cardinal Stritch University and was a in 1969. By 1971, he was convinced that God was calling him selected as a member of the most recent cohort of leaders in to the ordained ministry. After receiving his first theology the African American Leadership Program at Cardinal Stritch. certificate in 1974, Pastor Sims set out to begin his own church He serves on the advisory boards of the Dominican Center and the Intergenerational Council of the Milwaukee County congregation in his Milwaukee neighborhood. Pastor Sims now Commission on Aging. leads Bethesda Baptist Church, a congregation he founded and which has grown to include about 250 current members.
SOCIAL SERVICE Jonette N. Arms, M.S. - Milwaukee County Jonette Arms has served as the assistant director of the Milwaukee County Department on Aging since 2010. She plans, develops and administers a coordinated system of services through collaboration with existing public and private community agencies that serve Milwaukee County’s older population. Prior to joining the Milwaukee County Department on Aging, Jonette was employed with the Alliance for Children and Families, Inc. As years went on, her heart continued to be in working on behalf of older adults. Therefore, when she was offered the opportunity to leave private industry and return to work at the Milwaukee County Department on Aging, there was no hesitation on her part. She is the mother of two adult children, Nicole and Earl, and has one grandson. She is a member of Metropolitan Missionary Baptist Church.
SOCIAL SERVICE Shaun Robey - Fresh Start Shaun Robey graduated from the UW-Whitewater with a degree in social work and earned a master’s in social work from UW-Milwaukee. Shaun began his career managing the cases of children and families who are facing challenges. He is currently responsible for the Parent to Parent Program and the Intensive Reunification Program at Fresh Start Family Services. Shaun serves on the Board of Directors for the National Black Child Development Institute and has worked on many committees in the interests of children the United States. He has also been a presenter at the Fathers & Families Coalition of America Conference and the Bureau of Milwaukee Child Welfare Fatherhood Conference.
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Black Excellence Honorees
SPORTS Michael Goodwin - Milwaukee Bucks Since 1988 Michael Goodwin has served as the official time keeper for all Milwaukee Bucks’ home games, a part-time job that has enabled him to travel the world as a member of the NBA franchise. Michael retired recently from his full-time job after 33 years selling wholesale wine and spirits. This has allowed him to greatly increase the amount of time he dedicates to working with youth, especially as a coach. Sports, coaching and mentoring have been a part of Michael Goodwin’s life for practically his entire life. Growing up in the Barryland Housing Projects on Milwaukee’s northwest side during the 1950s was by no means a negative experience, according to Michael. He has been married to his wife Rhoda for 35 years, and they have three grown children. The Goodwins attend Parklawn Assembly of God Church in Milwaukee.
SPORTS Annie Jones - Retired MPS Educator Annie Jones is a retired Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) educator as well as a passionate tennis player and coach. These days, Annie can be found sharing her love of tennis and learning to urban kids through the United Tennis Club. While teaching at MPS, Annie found time to serve the church and the community. She retired from MPS in 2005 as an assistant principal, career guidance director and teacher at Rufus King IB High School. Annie started a behavioral disability program for special needs children and is currently part time at Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) as a GED Orientation instructor. She was selected as Delta Dear of the Year this year and has been a member of the sorority since college. Annie is a member of St. Mark A.M.E. Church where she serves as co-director of the evangelism ministry.
VOLUNTEERISM Lilly Simmons Milwaukee Exposure & Explorer Project
VOLUNTEERISM LaDora Rabon Milwaukee Exposure & Explorer Project
Lillie Simmons is a retired educator who worked for both Milwaukee Public Schools and Milwaukee Area Technical College. After retiring in 2009, she founded MEEP—the Milwaukee Exposure and Explorer Project. MEEP is a volunteer activity which brings central city preteen youth together with educators and business people to provide them with exposure and resources to help develop skills for a successful future. MEEP encourages development of solid reading skills and offers learning opportunities such as job shadowing and college tours. Lilly has put a great deal of herself into the project. She has the enthusiasm and faith of an evangelist, but her message is a secular one when she talks about MEEP and the difference that can make in the future of its participants.
LaDora Rabon works as a Milwaukee Exposure and Explorer Project (MEEP) activity coordinator. LaDora had heard through their church “grapevine” that Lillie was launching a youth program. Both women are long-time members of Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church and decided to join forces in the service of children. The project, which the pastor at Pilgrim Rest strongly supported, first began to take shape about the time that LaDora and her husband were thinking of retiring from their family business. She estimates that she devotes several hours a week to helping line up the speakers and helping with other logistics. LaDora serves as a MEEP volunteer primarily at two schools—Dr. Benjamin Carson Academy of Math and Science, and Bryant Elementary School. 30
Friday February 27TH 2015
MARQUETTE UNIVERSITY
CONGRATULATES OUR BLACK EXCELLENCE HONOREE
Congratulations on the 30th Annual
Black Excellence Awards
DELBERT UTSEY, Grad ’93
Excellence: 30 Years Our Community’s Keeper www.gwenmooreforcongress.com Paid for by Moore for Congress, Ellen Bravo, Treasurer
Congratulations to the 2015 Black Excellence Honorees from
The
Milwaukee Urban League Congratulates
Yvonne Kemp On Her
2015 Black Excellence Award Presented to her for “Excellence in Photo Journalism” Ralph E. Hollmon
President and CEO
Vivian King
Board Chair
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EDUCATOR. MENTOR. LEADER.
Of everything you do so well, being an important part of the college is what we are most thankful for. Congratulations, Dr. Dessie Levy, on becoming a Black Excellence Award Honoree.
Downtown Milwaukee Campus_Mequon Campus_Oak Creek Campus_West Allis Campus_matc.edu_414-297-MATC MATC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Commission on Institutions of Higher Education, the national standard in accrediting colleges and schools for distinction in academics and student services. MATC is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Institution and complies with all requirements of the Americans With Disabilities Act.
Supervisors from the Milwaukee County Board would like to congratulate the Honorees and Award Recipients of the 2015 Black Excellence Awards and Ms. Jonette N. Arms for her service to Milwaukee County. Thank you all for your contribution to our community.
Become a Chairwoman Marina Dimitrijevic
Supervisor Michael Mayo, Sr.
Supervisor Willie Johnson, Jr.
Supervisor John F. Weishan, Jr.
District 4
District 7
District 13
District 16
foster or adoptive
parent
GROW H
Supervisor Gerry Broderick District 3
Supervisor Theodore Lipscomb, Sr. District 1
Supervisor Khalif Rainey
Supervisor Martin Weddle
District 2
District 5
we wish you health and happiness in all your future endeavors.
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As the MPS School Board Director for the 4th District, I am sending congratulations to all of the 2015 Louvenia Johnson scholarship recipients and military women honorees. I am very thankful to you for your service of protection to our Country.
Congratulations and best wishes to all of the Milwaukee Times 2015 Black Excellence Award honorees. We are proud of our military honorees who have sacrificed defending the freedom we enjoy in America.
Best wishes to our youth who have excelled against the odds in a state that chose to cut funding in education. Richard Williams, H.S. of the Arts and Asiane Jordan, North Division H.S., you are products of the 4th District. I am extremely proud of you as your School Board Representative. Remember, I am here for you.
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ANNIE WOODARD 33
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McDonald’s of Southeastern Wisconsin Salutes the 2015 ®
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Owner and Coop President Robert Pyles speaks during RMHC Multicultural Scholarship Awards Ceremony Ronald McDonald poses with scholarship winners
Scholarship winners with Ronald McDonald and Mayor Tom Barrett
McDonald’s joins you in working to secure a bright future for our community. Each year, McDonald’s Owner/Operators partner with the Ronald McDonald House to give away $60,000 in scholarships to 30 hardworking students through the RMHC Multicultural Scholarship Program. ©2015 McDonald’s
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Congratulations and best wishes to all honorees of Milwaukee Times’ 30th Annual Black Excellence Awards. We are in awe of your significant achievements which impact this community. Most importantly, your talents offer a wealth of inspiration as we view the myriad of ways you crafted your stories of success. 330 East Kilbourn Avenue Suite 550 Milwaukee, WI 53202
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Pastors United Congratulates Minister Greg Lewis on his nomination for the 2015 Black Excellence Awards! 41
Real Leadership Alderman Joe Davis, Sr. congratulates all of the honorees, with special recognition to Shaun Robey, Steven Tipton, Sr. & Jr. and Laci Coppins. There’s nothing like family!
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Percy L. Jackson was born on March 18, 1947 to Beulah Bell Jackson and Gus Jackson in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He professed hope in Christ at an early age at Mt. Carmel Missionary Baptist Church of Milwaukee. He was educated in the public school system of Milwaukee. He earned his high school diploma from North Division High School. Percy moved to Madison, Wisconsin in the late 1970s and attended Madison Technical College.
Musical Prelude..........................................................................
He was employed by EconoPrint of Madison for a number of years. Percy returned to Milwaukee in the 1980s. He worked at various print shops as a printer and graphic designer. In the 1990s he changed careers and became a cook for D&S Catering until January 2006. Percy then accepted a job at the Milwaukee Times Newspaper as the Circulation Manager until his death. Percy was a gifted artist and painter. His hobby was weekend fishing trips to places like Madison and Pewaukee. He also enjoyed cooking. Percy was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Clifford, Augusta & Cleveland and son Jamal Knox. He is survived by his son, Terrance Barnes; sisters, Lynda Jackson-Conyers (Nathan), Margaret Brown, Hattie Thomas; brothers, Muhammad Sabir (Akrua), Ronald Jackson (Marge), Charles Jackson, Donald Jackson Sr., Theodus Jackson (Alice). He is further survived by nieces and nephews, Lori Ann Blount of Minnesota, Kim Jackson, Lynn Jackson, Ronald Jackson Jr., Morgan Ashley Conyers, Deloris Conyers, Maanaan Sabir, Donald Jackson Jr., Rhonda Jackson, Ann Jackson, Curley Brown, Danny Brown, Melvin Jackson, Michael Ross, Deandre Thompson and Adrienne Brown. He was especially close to his cousins David Paul and Pam Evans. He also had special friendships with Addie Barnes and Benita Bankhead. Percy will be furthered remembered by a host of family members and friends.
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Congratulations and best wishes to all of the Milwaukee Times 2015 Black Excellence Award honorees. We are proud of our military honorees who have sacrificed defending the freedom we enjoy in America.
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