Celebrating 20 Years of Youth Empowerment

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years of youth empowerment Fellowship Open

Expressing Thanks A heartfelt special “Thank You” to American Civil Rights Leader and United States Congressman John R. Lewis who personally took the time to autograph commemorative books for the MKE Fellows. The legendary Congressman is pictured with his childhood friend Reverend Lewis Lampley with whom he grew up in rural Alabama. We will forever be indebted to this giant of moral courage – and will be expressing our heartfelt thanks in a more direct way soon – but could not allow another day to go by without expressing our thanks to this man of vision and fortitude.

The legacy of strong males leading the community continued when Reverend Lampley joined former US Ambassador Andrew Young as faith leaders from around the country returned to the birthplace of the MKE Fellows where a historic meeting was convened at Davidson House, the presidential residence on the campus of Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia, to expand the reach and impact of the MKE Fellows initiative nationally.

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On the Occasion of our 20th Anniversary Dearest Friends of the Fellowship Open, For the past 20 years, Milwaukee has been the home for an incredibly special event— the Fellowship Open. We personally want to thank you for your friendship, engagement and endorsement in making this event phenomenally successful. Over two decades now, the Fellowship Open has been able to invest in over 100 robust youth-serving organizations and initiatives that are making a meaningful difference in the lives of Milwaukee youngsters every day. The return on that investment is demonstrated measurably in the positive impact gained through the quality of programming generated through your support.

We absolutely believe that exposing young people to options, new perspective and opportunity is a fundamental key to development and empowerment. For that reason, over the years we’ve been able to enlist many prominent government, community and business leaders as advisors, mentors and speakers allowing candid and personal interchange with the youth we gather yearly, and in particular, the MKE Fellows. This 20th anniversary commemorative pictorial book documents many of those exchanges, including the signatures of some very influential individuals.

Notwithstanding the enormous challenges of COVID-19, in 2020 the Fellowship Open remains on-task to continue our mission of service. This year, three outstanding youth-focused organizations have been selected as beneficiaries – Moncrief Game Changer, Dr. Howard Fuller Collegiate Academy, and the Five Pillars/Metcalfe School Virtual Tutoring Project. The coronavirus pandemic has driven need to unprecedented urgency, and because of the Fellowship Open, thousands of youngsters will continue to be aided through community contribution and investment. At a time when collaboration and cooperation are needed most, Milwaukeeans have been eager to empower and uplift. Despite the challenges of the times, we remain categorically committed to ensuring our mission of support goes uninterrupted.

John W. Daniels, ∫∫∫ President, Fellowship Open

Finally, this year we honor Milwaukee Bucks Hall of Famer Sidney Moncrief, Bader Philanthropies CEO Daniel J. Bader, and Milwaukee Community Journal Publisher Pat Pattillo as our Legends, Civic and Community Leader Awardees. Darlene Austin and Gerard Randall, long-time Fellowship Open volunteers and advocates – also receive well-deserved recognition for outstanding community service to youth and the Fellowship Open event.

We offer our deepest gratitude for the tireless efforts of those who continue to support this exceptional mission of service to youth. Thank you to the many dedicated sponsors who continue to support these worthy efforts year after year. Enjoy the read. See you in 2021.

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John W. Daniels, Jr. Founder, Fellowship Open

Our 2020 Honorees Sidney Moncrief Of the many athletes who have come through the Milwaukee Bucks organization since its establishment in1968, there is no player more beloved than Sidney Moncrief.

Despite his incredible abilities to leap over seven footers and score effortlessly, throughout his career the 6’ 4” Moncrief has always been respected most for his defensive tenacity and his absolute devotion to the “team-first” concept. The NBA’s first two-time Defensive Player of the Year, some of the greatest names in the game including Jordan, Barkley, Magic and Dr. J have all acknowledged Sidney Moncrief as one of the toughest competitors they have ever played against. Sidney’s teammate Junior Bridgeman cites his relentless effort and consistent attitude as the characteristics that separated Sidney from mediocrity and failure.

Following his playing career, the Arkansas native and University of Arkansas graduate, who some thought might run for governor, was drawn to community service through youth empowerment. Using the game he loved, he first envisioned and then activated a direct path to active engagement with his Moncrief Game Changer organization which has evolved into Moncrief One Team—a corporate coaching and motivational program. The author of eight books, armed with a wealth of knowledge and combined experience in sports, business, leadership and education, Sidney and wife Takisha, offer unique and innovative solutions through training and resources.

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Our 2020 Honorees Dan Bader The son of Alfred and Helen Daniels Bader, Daniel J. Bader and his brother David, were raised in an environment where traditional values like hard work and compassion were evidence of concern. His selection as the 2020 Fellowship Open Civic Leader Honoree represents mission accomplishment at the highest level of community service and further testament to the legacy of his parents. From the working-class ideals born through establishment of the family business—the Aldrich Chemical Company— the Foundation’s longstanding commitment to bringing people of diverse perspectives together around issues of social concern continues. “Our family has always seen concern for our fellow citizens as the barometer by which we are all measured,” said Board Vice President David Bader. “Social justice is contingent upon active engagement which we are grateful our parents embedded in us.”

Since its founding in 1992 as the Helen Bader Foundation, now Bader Philanthropies, Inc. has committed more than $300 million over a wide spectrum of community empowerment programs and organizations that exist to improve the quality of life for people, young and old, living in neighborhoods in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and globally. The magnitude of the investments, contributions and support which Bader Philanthropies has propagated for three decades is now permanently underscored with their 2018 relocation from Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward to a gleaming newly renovated facility at 3300 N. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive on Milwaukee’s north side. The Foundation’s relocation to Milwaukee’s north side has been widely hailed as a demonstration of major community investment, solidifying local commitment in perpetuity.

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Letter from Joe Biden Dear Friends: It is a pleasure to welcome and extend well-wishes to attendees—players, staff, volunteers, youth, and chairs—of the 20th Anniversary of Milwaukee’s Fellowship Open. While it may look and feel different from previous years’ tournaments, this milestone is no less momentous; your mission to uplift communities and empower future generations of leaders, no less righteous.

We’re living through a time unlike any in our nation’s history. As we continue to deal with a public health crisis which has laid bare historic racial inequities in our healthcare system and our economy, we are all called upon to dig deep and summon the courage do more than simply speak out—but to engage our communities, to practice gratitude and self-reflection, and to address injustices with real action. Now, more than ever—as our nation cries out for leadership that can unite us; leadership that recognizes the pain and grief of communities that have been left behind for too long—your efforts to leverage the power of education and provide career pathways through internships, mentoring, and vocational support are exemplary. For it is within our own communities and through our local efforts to stand with, fight for, and uplift one another that we will heal the wounds of our past and ensure that the promise of America is afforded to all.

I want to commend the MKE Fellows who are answering this call for leadership and setting the example for community members, elected officials, and people of all backgrounds and beliefs who are integral to the healing, rebuilding, and refocusing we so desperately need. Today in America, it’s hard to keep faith that justice is at hand. But you represent the most tolerant, most educated, most progressive generation in American history. And because of you, I am heartened and hopeful that we can emerge from these difficult times a stronger, more resilient, more inclusive nation defined—in Dr. King’s words—not by the absence of tension, but by the presence of justice. To the constituents, partners, mentors, collaborators, teachers, tutors, parents, sponsors and friends who, in your own way, are supporting this program—thank you for being leaders as well. Continue to listen, to reach out, to speak out, and to strengthen the foundations of these students so that through life’s challenges, they are able to find purpose and persevere.

I’d also like to acknowledge 2020 Fellowship Open Honorees—NBA Hall of Famer and Milwaukee Bucks legend, Sidney Moncrief, and a philanthropic leader in Milwaukee, President and CEO of Bader Philanthropies, Daniel J. Bader. The work you do matters, and your engagement is crucial to building a better future.

Congratulations to you all. Stay safe, healthy, and hopeful, and keep up the great work.

Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Former Vice President of the United States 7

About the F ellowshipOpen “Wisconsin will be among the nation’s leaders in forging an inclusive society for her citizens because of initiatives like the Fellowship Open and the support it gives to young people through efforts such as MKE Fellows.

Thank you for endeavoring over twenty years to create a Wisconsin that fully engages everyone in its civic, economic and social life!”

— Former Governor of the State of Wisconsin Tommy G. Thompson

In response to immediate global circumstances a coronavirus pandemic and elevated social discourse across the nation — utilizing cutting-edge technologic and communications platforms, there are multiple, ongoing, continuous achievements, development, and advancements to report regarding both the Fellowship Open golf event and the MKE Fellows initiative. The story of success and collaboration remains vibrant and alive.

The core mission of the Fellowship Open is to perpetuate efforts resulting in measurable, positive outcomes for the community today while guiding the development of life-skills and vocational proficiencies and competencies for the leaders of tomorrow.

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Over 20 years now, the Fellowship Open has established itself as an enduring resource committed to youth and positive youth development. In so doing, the Fellowship Open has benefited enormously from the remarkable contributions of corporations, businesses and individuals who share a common interest in creating vocational opportunities for the next generation. Our objective is to facilitate and deliver qualitative opportunities for young people who demonstrate a dedication and aptitude toward character and leadership. Demonstrative of two decades of positive impact of the Fellowship Open: • The MKE Fellows now supports nearly 200 students at over 30 colleges and universities nationwide • Internships in multiple capacities throughout Wisconsin’s leading businesses and organizations • $3 million raised and awarded to youth-serving agencies throughout greater Milwaukee and southeastern Wisconsin • On-going committed partnerships with the Packers, Brewers and Bucks • On-going committed collaboration and support from Milwaukee and Wisconsin’s leading businesses and corporations including American Family Insurance, WE Energies, R. W. Baird, Advocate Aurora, Quarles & Brady, Northwestern Mutual, and many others • A list of Legends Honorees which includes multiple Hall of Famers, World Champions and Olympic Gold Medalists • Partnership with the PGA of America and the Ryder Cup providing exposure to professional golf for community youth and youth partners • Record-setting corporate sponsor support in 2019 • Sold-out event 19 years in a row Unprecedented results in unprecedented times. Prepared for the responsibility of corporate and community leadership. Rising to meet need and seize opportunity. Compelled by the totality of commitment.

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MKE FELLOWS INITIATIVE

“MKE Fellows is a powerful and unique initiative that offers educational and vocational support to academically talented African-American young men from urban backgrounds in Wisconsin ensuring that they graduate from college prepared for career success and community/servant leadership. Our goal is to ensure that much of this exceptional talent returns to Wisconsin.”

— Former Vice President Johnson Controls Charles “Chuck” Harvey

Although relatively early in development, with its inception in 2012, the MKE Fellows has already demonstrated a remarkable track record of success in designing and deploying innovative strategies with measurable impact and proven effectiveness. The MKE Fellows initiative is founded upon five core pillars – Career & Professional Development, Mentorship, Internships & Job Experience, Scholarship Opportunities, and Civic Engagement. This unique educational and vocational platform has resulted in the intersection of like-missioned organizational dynamics compelling immediate community response to the clear and present danger we face today with the worldwide coronavirus pandemic.

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Olympic Champion Tommie Smith bestows the Thelma A. Sias Medal Of Distinction

The MKE Fellows initiative grew out of a community-based project called the Fellowship Open — a golf event that salutes prominent local and national corporate, community, and civic leaders who are making a significant difference in the lives of Wisconsin families. This is the 20th Anniversary of the Fellowship Open and over the past 20 years we have honored some of the greatest figures in sports history, among them Henry Aaron, Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Oscar Robertson, Frank Robinson, Bud Selig, Willie Davis, and Senator Herb Kohl just to name a few.

Additionally, we’ve also saluted many Wisconsin business leaders who have had measurable impact in changing lives – people like Cory Nettles, Chuck Harvey, Thelma Sias, ReDonna Rogers, Ralph Hollmon, Marvin Pratt, Jackie Herd-Barber, and many others.

Initially, the design was conceptualized by local corporate leaders wanting to change the life trajectory of African-American students. The first small cohort of 10 young men were championed through Morehouse College in Atlanta eight years ago. Now, the MKE Fellows supports 200 scholars across the country in over 30 universities, colleges, and institutions and these young men are achieving an astounding 85% graduation rate – almost tripling the national average.

W E SEE TH E FUTURE .

I T I S VE RY BRIGHT.

“MKE Fellows envisions a healthier and more economically prosperous community that is better positioned to support the economic growth of Wisconsin. The primary goal of MKE Fellows is the creation of a consistent and robust pipeline of young, African-American male college graduates ready to return to Milwaukee and other parts of the state to excel in their careers, build wealth, and become engaged leaders capable of moving our region’s African-American communities into a new era of greater health, vitality, and prosperity.

MKE Fellows seeks to groom a group of young men who are not only well-educated, but who provide values-based servant leadership that will be emulated by others.”

—Former Mayor of the City of Milwaukee Marvin E. Pratt 11

A LEGACY OF SUCCESS "The MKE Fellows program bolsters and compliments established resources and existing protocols to ensure total support in all areas of academic transition.

We avoid redundancy with existing initiatives and establish a robust relationship with the appointed person on campus who works with an MKE Fellows counterpart to stay in touch with, monitor, and oversee each MKE Fellows individual progress toward successful completion. The Fellows design works jointly with college onboarding, through academic counseling and course selection, with personal mentoring, and into professional development for the entire educational process." — LaNelle Ramey, M.A., Executive Director MENTOR Greater Milwaukee

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MKE FELLOWS: FIVE PILL ARS MKE Fellows works in close partnership with leaders of universities and local corporations to provide Fellows with the internships, support, connections and resources they need to thrive in college and graduate prepared for the professional world. Over the years, the program has incorporated the following core pillars to build a platform for transformative leadership:

Internships and Job Experiences

MKE Fellows are paired with Wisconsin companies who offer paid internships that help them gain on-the-job experience, build professional networks and present fresh perspective to company teams and cultures.

Mentorship

Each Fellow is paired with a volunteer leader from the community who serves as a dedicated mentor providing career guidance and leadership advice. Fellows also have the opportunity to meet successful professionals across a range of careers, and consult with dedicated program staff as they navigate through the program. Our cohort mentality helps students connect with each other on a personal level providing peer-to-peer mentorship relationships.

Career and Professional Engagement

Through experiential and engaging summer workshops, Fellows learn about topics like networking, use of technology, prioritizing, interviewing, conflict management, and more keys to a successful career.

Civic Engagement

Fellows develop meaningful social relationships and through experiential and engaging summer workshops, they learn about concepts and practices like networking, technology, prioritizing, interviewing, conflict management, problem-solving and more keys to a successful career. They key in on establishing business networks that will help them secure employment and build a career. Fellows participate in “Lunch & Learn” sessions hosted by corporate and civic organizations, as well as social events including the Fellowship Open, Summerfest, the Black and White Ball and more!

Scholarship Opportunities

MKE Fellows provides merit- based book scholarships to offset the costs of subsidiary educational materials, as well as emergency funds to provide support in extreme circumstances.

“We have devised a process to identify, recruit, educate, inform, support, guide, mentor, develop, and sustain young African American males providing them with the absolute best practice strategy for degree completion and successful graduation.

The MKE Fellows initiative then provides the bridge between education and vocation, frequently from classroom to boardroom.”

— Cory L. Nettles, Founder/Managing Director Generation Growth Capital, Inc. 13

Prologue Longtime Fellowship Open Co-Director Jim Allen recalls that he and Attorney John W. Daniels, Jr. met in the 1970’s while Jim was working for a major Fortune 500 I/T company. Those who know the influence of the game need no explanation of how an attorney and a diversity supply executive might have bonded over golf, but clearly, they “linked.” What became more profoundly evident as they continued to cross paths was the common interests they shared—in educational advancement, youth development, community service, corporate collaboration, community empowerment.

All their lives, both men had been deeply involved in service to youth. Through golf, they sensed an opportunity to ‘circle the wagons’ and create something truly powerful, a community-based initiative with the potential to transform an entire city. So it was that they brought together two other likeminded individuals—Joe Kennedy and Charles Rhodes—with the vision and dedication to launch such an ambitious program.

Perhaps it was serendipity that Allen had been organizing the annual Frontiers Tournament sponsored

by Jim Thompson and Miller Brewing for many years, or that Joe Kennedy had been working with best friend Henry “Hammering Hank” Aaron to build out his Chasing The Dream Foundation and expand opportunities for youth in Milwaukee.

Serendipity or not, Attorney Daniels brought these men together over lunch at First Wisconsin Center—where so many worthwhile projects have been birthed—to begin the journey. Together, they developed a list of business, civic and community leaders like ReDonna Rogers, Thelma Sias, Cory Nettles, Billy Young and Darlene Austin; media partners like CBS 58 TV and the Milwaukee Community Journal, corporate colleagues and community stakeholders, including the Greater Milwaukee Committee and Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce, and the State’s professional sports teams—the Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Brewers and Milwaukee Bucks.

Sensing the potential impact and sustainability of this transformational initiative, the men developed both a short term strategy connecting all these strategic partners and a long term strategy to leverage the immediate resources they had been able to identify.

Twenty years later, we are able to see the success of their efforts. We commend these pioneers and all of the many men and women who bought into their vision, embraced it and made it a reality. The City of Milwaukee and its youth are so much the better for all that they have done. We salute you.

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2019 Jackie Joyner-K ersee and Greg Marcus While each year we seem to surpass another milestone, clearly, with the acknowledgment of Olympic and World Champion Jackie Joyner-Kersee as the 2019 Fellowship Open Legends Honoree, the bar was raised to its zenith. The “Greatest Female Athlete of All Time” joined esteemed Wisconsin corporate icon, family-man and Civic Award Honoree Greg Marcus providing a leadership-by-example framework to assist in supporting the African American Male Initiative (Concordia University), the Black & Latino Male Achievement Mentorship program, and Operation Dream in Milwaukee.

As the prodigiousness of the event has swelled over two decades, proportionately, allegiance from business and community partners has mushroomed. By whatever measure is employed, in 2019 the Fellowship Open set upon a path of unconditional commitment to the success of the next generation of leaders. Just as Jackie Joyner-Kersee and Greg Marcus represent the highest level of excellence in their respective careers, so also was the brilliance of the Fellowship Open magnified by their very presence. Over four days of non-stop activity, with 14 separate events accommodating travelers from as far away as Florida and California, the 2019 Fellowship Open reached heights of monumental proportion. The images of young people engrossed in exchange with an Olympic legend will forever exemplify Milwaukee’s emblazoned community support.

The inaugural MKE Fellows Financial Wellness Forum, behind-the-scenes tours of America’s Black Holocaust Museum and a diversity of events including national authors Chris Gardner, Blair Walker and Jeremiah Brown were among a plethora of activities across a world-class 19th annual Fellowship Open weekend. These ongoing interchanges with the world’s greatest athletes, the country’s most prominent businesspeople, and the state’s most influential community stakeholders provide instrumental onboarding for Wisconsin’s next generation of leadership. Absolutely a Gold Medal year!

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2018 Dr. George Koonce, David Gruber, La Rue M artin, Jr., and Tommie Smith No journey through a lifetime of great personal challenge is more compelling than that of 2018 Fellowship Open Honorees Green Bay Packers legend George Koonce, hometown hero and Milwaukee’s favorite attorney David Gruber, and former #1 pick turned corporate executive La Rue Martin, Jr. In 2018, all three were saluted not only for their career and business successes—attained through diligence and perseverance—but also for their ongoing commitments to serving youth.

In 2018, the 100 Black Men of Madison, Black Arts Fest, MKE and Milwaukee’s Signature Dance Company were all recipients of the generosity generated by the recognition of these three outstanding civil servants.

Alongside Hall of Fame teammates Brett Favre and Reggie White, George Koonce’s exploits on the field earned him the Super Bowl XXXI title and iconic perpetuity as Green Bay’s “Doctor of Defense.” It is George’s work off the field, however, that will perpetuate his legacy as a champion for mental health and personal and professional growth through education and inclusion. With a PhD from Marquette University, Dr. George Koonce continues to serve Wisconsin’s future generations as Vice President of the Office of Advancement at Marian University.

David Gruber’s mark on Milwaukee and his commitment to serving families and community will endure far beyond the weekend he spent with us as the 2018 Community Leadership Honoree. As he addressed those gathered to salute him, including family, close friends and business colleagues, his heartfelt gratitude for the honor allowed us a private glimpse into why he so dearly loves this city and ultimately why he continues to embrace it through philanthropy and business.

La Rue Martin’s impact on the community has been fully realized off the court after being drafted as the NBA’s first pick in 1972. Ultimately, La Rue has found purpose and fulfillment through community service, outreach and engagement. For over three decades as an executive with a major Fortune 500 company, La Rue Martin, Jr. has contributed mightily to organizational efforts to engage populations and support youth along the way. We listened spellbound as he described his life’s adventure through Fellowship Open

college and pro sports as a Chicago icon and as an advocate for community engagement through diversity, inclusion and youth empowerment.

The image of Olympian Tommie Smith, fist raised, head bowed alongside fellow teammate John Carlos, on the platform at the Mexico City Olympic games dramatically underscored one of the most powerful weekends in Fellowship Open history. Dr. Smith, touring internationally in acknowledgment of the 50th anniversary of the 1968 summer Olympics and his heroic gesture, was a special guest of the Fellowship Open and filled four days interacting with a diverse and welcoming Milwaukee community.

The urgency of inclusion repeated thematically throughout the weekend fueling dialogue and exchange with the young men of the MKE Fellows. The message, the encounters, the image of Tommie Smith draping the Thelma A. Sias Medal of Distinction around the necks of our MKE Fellows will forever serve as a reminder of the transformational weekend spent with an icon of American social justice.

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2017 Bob D andridge and Thelma Sias In the history of corporate Milwaukee leadership over the last three decades, no name resonates more loudly than Thelma A. Sias. A tireless community servant and youth advocate, the Fellowship Open has benefited immeasurably as a result of her service to the MKE Fellows initiative. In meaningful appreciation, as we honored Thelma with the 2017 Fellowship Open Community Leadership Award for dedicated service, we also established the Thelma A. Sias Medal of Distinction in her name to recognize outstanding achievement for matriculating MKE Fellows. This is the highest honor bestowed upon any MKE Fellows scholar.

In the history of Wisconsin sports figures and the Milwaukee Bucks franchise, there is no name more beloved than Bob Dandridge. Alongside Oscar Robertson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, in 1971 Bobby D brought Milwaukee its only NBA Championship. He was a world champion again in 1978 with Hall of Famers Elvin Hayes and Wes Unseld as a member of the Baltimore/Washington Bullets. An NBA All-Star and Bucks legend, Bob’s love for Milwaukee has never diminished. While a member of the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame, Bob, whose #10 jersey now hangs retired in the rafters of the Fiserv Forum, remains connected with Milwaukee youth through frequent visits and a close relationship with his former team. It was quite a site in 2017 as the 6’ 6” swingman, surrounded by a beehive of adoring kids from Moody Park, smiled down with love in his heart and wisdom in his words.

“Bolstered by a robust core of business leaders – CEO’s, COO’s, Owners, Presidents, Directors, Chairmen, Executives, Decision-makers across the business spectrum – these professionals serve as mentors and advisors throughout the educational journey, providing invaluable real-world perspective, circumventing challenges, and co-navigating each MKE Fellows career journey side-by-side. Engaged community stakeholders, actively involved in molding the futures of these budding young leaders, business executives, and social activists.”

—Attorney John W. Daniels, Jr., Chairman Emeritus Quarles & Brady, LLC. Fellowship Open

2016 Oscar Robertson, Dr.Joan P rince, and P attyCadorin On the list of the world’s greatest, Oscar Robertson’s name appears at the very top. As the 2016 Fellowship Open Legends Honoree, the ‘Big O’ provided an inspirational presence and compelling message of hard work, effort and striving toward achievement. He spent quality time with Fellowship Open guests, Milwaukee media and a wide array of community and corporate Fellowship Open friends and supporters as our 2016 Legends Award Honoree. In addressing the gathered MKE Fellows, he outlined his strategy for success, drawing on his experience in overcoming challenges while remaining connected to the next generation of young leaders. A fascinating series of exchanges with an American sports legend and exceptional role model ensued leaving an indelible impression on the young minds of the MKE Fellows stressing personal responsibility in a team environment.

For years, Milwaukee native Dr. Joan Prince has led the battle for equal access to opportunity and inclusion through higher education. As a well-known and equally well-respected community leader, she has spearheaded efforts to engage Milwaukee’s diverse population through education leading to a symbiotic relationship with aspiring MKE Fellows whom we place on campus at the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee where Dr. Prince serves as Vice Chancellor, Global Inclusion and Engagement. Empowerment through education has long been the mantra of the 2016 Fellowship Open Community Leadership Honoree. Underscoring the prodigiousness of the influential leaders and mentors with whom MKE Fellows interact regularly, Dr. Prince, nominated by President Barack Obama, is the Ambassador Emeritus and Alternate Representative to the 67th General Assembly of the United Nations, a key administrative post with the honorary rank of Ambassador.

To round out a trio of community advocates in 2016, BMO Harris Bank executive Patty Cadorin was recognized as the Fellowship Open Civic Award Honoree. As Vice President and Senior Advisor, Patty sets the standard and leads the charge for the financial institution’s community engagement and outreach. A quintet of Milwaukee area youth-serving programs, agencies, organizations and initiatives were bolstered through support provided by the Fellowship Open with Patty’s guidance and leadership – Pathways Milwaukee, Heart of Milwaukee District, Boy Scouts of America, Boys & Girls Clubs of Milwaukee, and the Wisconsin Basketball Academy.

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2015 Commissioner Allan H . “Bud” Selig, Earnie Ellison, and Jackie H erd-Barber In 2015 Major League Baseball, professional golf and corporate Milwaukee found collective recognition in acknowledgment of Commissioner Bud Selig, PGA executive Earnie Ellison and longtime community volunteer Jackie Herd-Barber. Treasured Milwaukee performer, producer and community advocate Andre Lee Ellis & Company were among the six beneficiaries the Fellowship Open was able to support during this banner year. Of profound value was the opportunity for youngsters to engage privately, one-on-one and in discussion with colleagues, peers and mentors with the powerful group of corporate, civic and community honorees.

Traditionally, past Fellowship Open Legends Honorees have mostly been former Wisconsin Hall of Fame athletes who through a myriad of entrepreneurial and/or community-based enterprises and undertakings have remained close to the city and connected to Milwaukee’s youth. In 2015, however, we could not ignore the mighty impact of one of Milwaukee’s native sons, a man whose contributions to the universal world of athletics—and historic battle to preserve the sanctity of the game of Baseball—has become his legacy. Commissioner Allan H. “Bud” Selig left his mark on professional sports by fighting to exclude the destructive elements which had crept into the game and include those who have been too absent for too long – African Americans. Bud Selig’s name will forever be associated with Baseball’s most turbulent era, and his role in preserving and maintaining the ideologies of fairness, equity and inclusion will forever be documented. Those were the touching thoughts he shared with Fellowship Open guests and MKE Fellows alike.

The phenomenal worldwide growth of the PGA with Tiger Woods as aviator was witnessed from within by decorated PGA executive Earnie Ellison. Responsible for PGA engagement on a national scale as Director of Business and Community Relations for the PGA of America, crossing paths with Earnie allowed our youngsters entrée into the world of professional golf. Through this access, professional development found real meaning as MKE Fellows wandered the grounds, VIP hospitality tents and backstage areas of major international competition like the Ryder Cup and PGA Championships.

Moreover, in keeping consistent through concentration on core MKE Fellows pillars, beyond the Fellowship Open

greens and fairways at Whistling Straits and Black Wolf Run, these young minds were exposed to careers behind the scenes in media and marketing, promotion and publicity, administration and support, grounds and operations, and the exhilarating totality of the world of international professional golf.

Jackie Herd-Barber is a name synonymous with volunteerism in Milwaukee. While the MKE Fellows initiative focuses on exposing young people to corporate and business career options, community advocates and leaders like Jackie also keep them anchored in community service. Through her many affiliations and leadership roles with organizations like the Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee School of Engineering, Milwaukee Chapter of the Links, Inc., Metcalfe Elementary School, Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin Foundation, Marcus Center for the Performing Arts, Rotary Club of Milwaukee, the War Memorial, the Milwaukee Public Schools Foundation, the Milwaukee Urban League and Bader Philanthropies, Inc., Jackie’s message of community service resounded clearly to the young MKE Fellows. “Give back, return, help, assist and empower.”

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2014 Frank Robinson and The H onorable Vel P hillips Commissioner Bud Selig counts among his closest friends Jackie Robinson, Hank Aaron and Frank Robinson. To the degree that the Commissioner’s deepest passion was the involvement of African Americans in the game of baseball, he entrusted Frank Robinson to carry that legacy forward postretirement by overseeing the creation and launch of the MLB Urban Youth Academy—a baseballspecific recruitment and training/MLB franchise partnership design (which would later blossom to six facilities internationally by the year 2020). Frank was on hand as the 20 14 Legends Award Honoree to share his vision on preserving the ideals of the game through youth engagement and the impact his relationship with the game’s legends has had on his own life. He recounted the intensely competitive nature of his friendship with Hall of Fame rival Henry Aaron and how that rivalry shaped his career on and off the field. There was no fiercer athletic competition nor deeper respect than that shared by Frank and Hammerin’ Hank.

Recognized as one of Wisconsin’s most influential trailblazers, Velvalea Hortense Rodgers, “Vel” Phillips, will long be admired as a life-long community servant and civil rights activist. An attorney, politician, jurist and torch-bearer, her many ground-breaking firsts include first African American woman to graduate from the University of Wisconsin-Madison law school, first African American and first female Secretary of State in Wisconsin, Wisconsin’s first African American judge and Milwaukee County’s first female judge, and both the first African American and first female alderperson elected to the Milwaukee Common Council. The Fellowship Open was delighted to recognize Vel Phillips as the 2014 Civic Award Honoree. The turnout swelled to capacity and the applause was lengthy and heartfelt as she gently thanked those gathered at the awards luncheon to honor her. From the overflow, standing room only crowd, gracefully Vel accepted loving acknowledgment for her lifetime of civil service to the citizens of Wisconsin.

Among the grateful youth-serving initiatives and organizational recipients in 2014 were Arts @ Large, Freedom Expressions, Lissy’s Place, My Home Your Home, The Zoological Society, and a jolly Al Moreland and his Boxing Club - long-time Milwaukee coach and youth advocate.

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2013 Senator H erb K ohl and Charles H arvey In 2013, we were again compelled to go beyond the lines and boundaries of courts, fields and diamonds to salute one of Wisconsin’s most iconic and beloved civil servants, owner of the Milwaukee Bucks, United States Senator Herb Kohl. It was Herb Kohl’s vision not only to bring competitive professional basketball to Milwaukee but to be a spark in the revitalization of the new downtown.

Bright, shiny and attractive to national conventions and international traffic, housing a new arena and a metamorphic metropolitan transformation, Senator Kohl’s contribution to the reality of the new downtown Milwaukee is everlasting.

Charles “Chuck” Harvey was a guiding force and ‘Giant among Giants’ in Wisconsin corporate lore.

As Vice President for Diversity and Public Affairs at Johnson Controls, Chuck, who also serves as President of the Johnson Controls Foundation, and on the boards of several of Milwaukee’s most prominent and influential organizations including the United Way of Southeast Wisconsin, the Milwaukee Public Policy Forum, and Milwaukee World Festival, Inc., was selected as the 2013 Fellowship Open Community Leadership Award Honoree. The honor was bestowed upon Chuck not only for his brilliance as a corporate philanthropist, but as a pivotal presence and tireless supporter of the Fellowship Open and its prolific youth-supporting efforts. Every year since the inaugural Fellowship Open, you can find Chuck on the course at Silver Spring where he’s been ever-present and eversupportive. It is quite fitting that in 2020 Chuck Harvey is now an owner of the Milwaukee Bucks.

Thanks to Senator Kohl and President Harvey, Heart Love Place, Milwaukee Art Museum - Question Bridge & 30 Americans Exhibit, Milwaukee Public Schools/Rob Jeter Basketball Camp, Our Next Generation, United Performing Arts Fund, and United Sports Club, Inc. all received support from the Fellowship Open in 2013.

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2012 Wayne Embry and Sande Robinson While Wayne Embry is immediately personified as one of the NBA’s greatest ambassadors, Milwaukee will forever cherish this beloved big man as the instrumental catalyst and Bucks executive that brought together the duo of rookie Lew Alcindor and veteran Oscar Robertson. Soon to be known as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar—on the heels of John Wooden’s record-setting championship runs at UCLA, and the Big “O”, recognized as the greatest ever at his position—teamed under Wayne Embry’s leadership and brought Milwaukee its first and only championship in 1971. His organizational and negotiation skills led to League commendation when he became the first African American general manager and team president in NBA history with the Bucks, Cleveland Cavaliers and Toronto Raptors.

Listening to him relate the private moments between he and his best friend Oscar Robertson enraptured all. Watching the legions of Fellows flock to his side soaking up tidbits of wisdom generated lasting interchange and riveting images from the summer of 2012 and this iconoclastic Fellowship Open Legends Honoree. All respect to this Hall of Famer!

A gleaming crown jewel in our community who has labored unceasingly as an advocate for Wisconsin’s creative arts community is 2012 Community Leader Honoree Sande Robinson. Her selection as a member to the Board of Trustees of the Milwaukee Art Museum and as President of the African American Art Alliance speaks emphatically to her impeccable credentials as a purveyor and art aficionado, as does her long tenure as inaugural curator of Marquette University’s Haggerty Museum.

For an overview of African American art in Milwaukee and a working relationship with its artists, there is no better source, historian or storyteller. A quiet warrior, beyond her acumen as a renowned expert, Sande’s most enduring characteristic is seen in her relationships with the artists themselves. Her personal vocational pursuit centers upon the preservation of legacy through establishment of proprietary rights and suitable opportunities. For too long, artists have been under-appreciated, under-represented and under-educated in understanding their own ability to control career paths through self-empowerment as creative entrepreneurs. Artistic expression linked with basic business principles provided new perspectives and robust interchange with young MKE Fellows throughout this unforgettable weekend with Sande Robinson.

Added to the growing list of community-serving , youth-focused agencies, organizations and initiatives supported by the Fellowship Open were the Ways to Assist Foundation, Fresh Coast Basketball Classic, Johnson Park Neighborhood Association, Inc., Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office – Shop with A Cop, and Three Harbors Council – Boy Scouts of America.

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2011 Willie D avis and Skip Robinson The impact our 2011 Fellowship Open Honorees have had collectively on Milwaukee’s corporate and professional sports landscapes over many years is nothing short of trail-blazing. Willie Davis’s two-time Super Bowl Champion, Hall of Fame career with Vince Lombardi’s Green Bay Packers is the bedrock of NFL legend. Following his playing career, Willie remained closely connected to the city and state through his corporate and community relationships, and his broadcast and beverage businesses.

The multitude of boards and organizations he served and consulted ranged broadly from Los Angeles and Milwaukee neighborhoods to multinational corporations for over three decades. America’s most prominent and influential executives sought his acumen and counsel as an entrepreneur and philanthropist. MKE Fellows and Fellowship Open guests alike listened intently as this business icon providing invaluable insight into the world of the professional athlete and what lies beyond.

Skip Robinson’s lifetime of community service is well-documented. Whether leading inclusion and empowerment efforts as Director of the Hillside Boys & Girls Club, facilitating access to games and players as Milwaukee Bucks Community Relations Director, or assisting in identifying and working daily with professional athletes - especially those transitioning from college to the pros as the team’s VP of Player Development - Skip’s scope of influence in the maturation of young athletes is immeasurable.

An indefatigable youth advocate, Skip Robinson stands as an exemplary role model while facilitating access to career options for developing players. As the liaison for community engagement and the local face of the franchise for over a decade, under the tutelage of his biggest supporter, Milwaukee Bucks Owner Senator Herb Kohl, Skip never lost sight of the target. In team sweats working out with Ray Allen at the Cousins Center or a designer suit at game time at the Bradley Center, the 2011 Fellowship Open Community Leader Honoree always made himself available to the community, connecting the team and facilitating involvement. He will forever be appreciated for his benevolence and absolute dedication to youth empowerment. His aim never wavered, always laser-focused on young people, where he left an indelible mark. Spinning stories about All-Stars Ray Allen, Sidney Moncrief or Bob Lanier, Skip’s one-of-a-kind persona will forever be deeply valued in Milwaukee sports culture and for stopping by the 2011 Fellowship Open.

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As support for the Fellowship Open grows, so does our ability to expand our giving to youth programs and initiatives in the greater Milwaukee area. Willie and Skip, through their committed service to the community, provided a bountiful year in which many community-based organizations benefited including African World Festival, Milwaukee Summer Reading Project, MPS/UWM Rob Jeter’s Basketball Camp, NAACP ACT-SO Program, PGA Minority Collegiate Scholarship, Usher’s New Look Foundation, V.E. Carter Development Group, Inc., and the Willie D. Davis Scholarship Fund.

“The relationship with and long-term commitment from Wisconsin’s most influential companies and organizations – including Milwaukee’s most prominent corporate, civic, and community leaders – distinguishes this initiative from all others. A heretofore untapped pipeline of executive talent, poised to take leadership aimed squarely at future prosperity for a diverse and inclusive Milwaukee, has been created via the MKE Fellows initiative.

For these young African American scholars, this is an achievable goal.

Evidentiary to that premise, many Fellows are now returning to Milwaukee, quickly establish themselves in the workforce, ready to lead the city forward to a bright future.”

— Lieutenant Governor of the State of Wisconsin Mandela Barnes

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2010 Ulysses “Junior” Bridgeman and ReD onna Rodgers The 10th Anniversary of the Fellowship Open gave occasion for the committee to host one of the most significant events in the history of the tournament. Not only did we seize the moment to honor a Milwaukee Bucks legend and global business giant, but also to solidify the legacy of one of Milwaukee’s most enduring servant leaders.

There are many examples of professional-athlete-turned-successful-business-person post-playing career. At the summit of that impressive list stands Ulysses Lee Bridgeman. Better known to the entire NBA universe as Junior, his exploits on the court and service to community have earned him a permanent place of honor in Wisconsin’s sports archives, in the rafters of the Fiserv Forum where his retired jersey #2 hangs proudly, and in the hearts and well-wishes of all Milwaukeeans. Postbasketball, Junior Bridgeman’s skyrocket success story as a food industry mogul has been nothing short of phenomenal - and it all started locally. Headquartered in southeastern Wisconsin for over 30 years, Bridgeman Foods grew from franchise to franchise and brand to brand until Junior Bridgeman was well-established as one of the leading corporate franchisees for Wendy’s and Chili’s restaurants world-wide. Junior made sure however, that his prosperity never took him far from community youth and that’s where his business investments will always bear fruit.

When tales of unconditional community service to Milwaukee are chronicled, no name will appear above that of ReDonna Rodgers. ReDonna’s vision and determination to empower our community resulted in the establishment of the Milwaukee Enterprise Center (MEC) where she encountered young entrepreneurs daily, instilling in them the hope and belief that they could succeed in whatever they endeavored. Providing practical developmental tools, education and inspiration, ReDonna’s personal mantra has become that of the MKE Fellows, “I see the future and it is very bright.” In heartfelt appreciation for her dedication and untiring commitment to community empowerment through youth service, we recognized, saluted and embraced ReDonna Rodgers as the 2010 Fellowship Open Community Leader Honoree. A special emergency fund has been established by the Fellowship Open in ReDonna’s name to prevent youngsters from dropping out of school due to family or financial crises.

Further demonstrating our long-term commitment to youth service, in 2010 the Fellowship Open/YMCA Youth Scholarship was established in the name of original tournament organizer Charles “Chuck” Rhodes, in memoriam. Additionally, the Milwaukee County Council Boy Scouts of America, Solomon Community Temple, United Methodist Church, and Transitions: Men of Tomorrow all received support as community beneficiaries.

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“Those familiar with the collegiate experience, especially those who left home, know first-hand of the many obstacles and impediments to successful degree completion—financial, academic, social, family, health, home sickness, not to mention self-doubt and motivation, loneliness, exclusion, and all-too-often, the unexpected.”

— ReDonna Rodgers, President/Founder Center for Teaching Entrepreneurship Fellowship Open

2009 H enry Aaron With the acknowledgment of Henry Aaron as the 2009 Legends Honoree, the Fellowship Open established itself as Milwaukee’s premiere community empowerment initiative and a signature event for the state of Wisconsin. While Mr. Aaron needed no introduction, Commissioner Bud Selig stopped by to perform those duties in his honor and in tribute to their decades of friendship. It was Commissioner Selig’s anecdotal recollection of Hank’s competitive relationships with Jackie and Frank Robinson which revealed both their extraordinary athleticism and the intestinal fortitude they collectively had to muster to deal with the incessant issues they faced on baseball fields across Jim Crow America in the 1950’s. But it was precisely those friendships which resulted in not only Hall of Fame athletic accomplishment but in long-term community engagement - especially programs and initiatives aimed at youth and the participation of minorities in baseball. Hank, Frank, Jackie and Bud all understood and heralded the profound importance of inclusion in America’s game and through Henry Aaron’s induction as the 2009 Legends Honoree, the mission of the Fellowship Open gained traction and validity.

Demonstrative of the genuine love Milwaukeeans feel for #44, Baseball’s legendary home run king was greeted by a standing-room only crowd. Packed to the rafters, patrons, sponsors and friends turned out in droves to support “Hammerin’ Hank” and celebrate another momentous year for the Fellowship Open. Community initiatives and organizations that we were able to assist in 2009 included the African American Women’s Fund, Lighthouse Youth Center, Next Door Foundation and New Beginnings Are Possible.

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2008 June P erry A tireless advocate for Milwaukee youth and families is 2008 Community Leader Honoree June Perry. June’s battle against the angst and devastation of poverty and despair is born of genuine concern but energized through action. The totality of her acumen and commitment led to the creation of New Concept Self Development Center where along with colleague Geri McFadden, June began to fill the many huge social services gaps for African Americans in family and HIV counseling, housing, employment assistance and basic needs. As New Concept expanded, young African American women were engaged through the Hillside Housing Project mentoring program for girls, the New Concept youth entrepreneurship program launched its first youth-managed and operated business, and June helped author a Blue Ribbon report on Teen Pregnancy Prevention for the City of Milwaukee. Later, New Concept developed the first Prenatal Care Program which became the model for Title XIX benefits.

Through her organizational network and indefatigable efforts to include and uplift, June Perry’s contributions toward self-development and self-empowerment are measurable. Simply, June is a fearless trailblazer. From establishing Milwaukee’s first Father’s Resource Center, to creating the blueprint for Milwaukee County’s First-time Juvenile Offenders Program, to managing 50 employees and a $2.5 million budget, the true measure of June’s impact is in her service to over 7,000 families yearly in Milwaukee. In retirement, June continues to serve. With the creation of Access 2 Success, she provides technical assistance to civic and non-profit businesses and organizations addressing capacity for non-profit sustainability and strategic planning. The multitude gathered to salute her service at the 2008 Fellowship Open were brought to tears of affection and appreciation for her exceptional efforts.

Significantly, among the four youth-focused initiatives supported by the 2008 Fellowship Open were Asset Builders of America, Aurora: Project Nikki, the Minority Christian Coaches Association and Shalom, Inc. All of these organizations and programs benefited enormously from contributions raised in 2008. In particular, Asset Builders was able to expand its outreach to young people in Milwaukee’s central city introducing them to the basic concepts of wealth-building through investment and financial management.

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2007 Joe L. K ennedy In the annals of the Fellowship Open, 2007 will forever stand as an organizational benchmark. 2007 was the year we not only acknowledged Fellowship Open founder, leader in educational reform and tireless advocate for young people, Joe Louis Kennedy, Sr., we also provided startup funding for an initiative that would grow and develop to become the signature youth empowerment initiative created through the collaborative resourcefulness and judicious foresight of the Fellowship Open—the MKE Fellows.

Of those who initially bonded to create the Fellowship Open design, it was Joe Kennedy’s wisdom, spirit and tenacity which bolstered progress at every turn. As an educational leader among leaders, Joe was often called upon for counsel in establishing curriculums, professional development for educators, institutional leadership training, and guidance for principals and staff alike. His uncanny acumen in comprehending educational empowerment through the lens of a community advocate who marched with Dr. King in the ‘60’s, founded the Metropolitan Milwaukee Alliance of Black School Educators (MMABSE) in 1969, and established the New Testament Christian Academy in 1997, gave the energetic committee great impetus and tremendous resources to tap.

Even in retirement, Joe was inspiring. With resolute determination, he remained instrumental in the quest to gain access and improved quality of life through education—public and private. However, it was clearly his humanitarian side which magnetically drew people to him. Annie, his loving wife of over 40 years, would certainly acknowledge Joe’s gentle ability to gain credibility and trust through respect, civility and kindness. To the degree that Joe was so entrusted by those he encountered, it was his life-long best friends Hank Aaron and Bud Selig who regularly sought his counsel related to community investment and outreach in Milwaukee. The outcome of his relationships and good work is the creation of a youth initiative which has resulted in astronomical academic success, overwhelming community support and a pledge of partnership in perpetuity from some of Milwaukee’s most invested corporate and community stakeholders, the MKE Fellows.

Initiated as an internship program for college students returning to Milwaukee for the summer, the Argilla Program—founded on the campus of Holy Redeemer Church of God in Christ by John W. Daniels, III—was the launching pad for what would eventually transition into the MKE Fellows, the Fellowship Open’s premiere youth empowerment project. Along with PEARLS for Teen Girls, an 31

exceptional self-development and empowerment program inspiring girls to envision college, careers and big dreams under the direction of Danae D. Davis, Reggie Moore’s Urban Underground, one of Milwaukee’s most prolific juvenile justice reform, public safety, violence prevention and social service agencies for adjudicated youth, and Y.E.S. (Young Enterprising Society) - an international hub for socially progressive individuals mobilizing information and resources for the greater good of its members and society at large—comprised the youth-serving beneficiaries of the 2007 Fellowship Open.

"When a deliberate plan of action is deployed strategically with ethical oversight and adequate resources, quantitative progress should result. In the case of the MKE Fellows, the results have not only been narrative-changing – a literal doubling of the national degree completion average for African American males – they have been generationally transformational. Youth, families, and communities are already being impacted by the phenomenal success of this initiative."

— Greg Wesley, Senior Vice President Medical College of Wisconsin Fellowship Open

2006 James Beckum The history of baseball in Milwaukee is incomplete without prominent display of the name and appropriate recognition of the contributions of James Beckum. In point of fact, positive youth development through athletics was the platform Mr. Beckum utilized to convey life lessons to the thousands of kids he touched with a mitt and ball. Through the game he loved, Mr. Beckum related wisdom and perspective that only experience and compassion for community can bring and James Beckum—a unanimous choice as the 2006 Fellowship Open Community Service Leader Honoree— was all about his community.

From his Negro League playing days with the East St. Louis Giants, to his role in the preservation of that local history with the Milwaukee Brewers and the Yesterday’s Negro League Baseball Hall of Fame, the Baltimore native has called Milwaukee home for nearly 50 years—long enough to organize Beckum-Stapleton Little League in 1966, the longest-running inner-city baseball program in the country. His dedication to Beckum-Stapleton remains on full display daily as he tends to the fields and diamonds at 36th and Brown. The countless number of children he’s coached, counseled and nurtured will forever serve as his living legacy of dedicated community service well after the last out is recorded.

The Neighborhood Children Sports League (NCSL), the Metropolitan Milwaukee Alliance of Black School Educators, Word of Hope Ministries, Inc., the Milwaukee Tennis & Education Foundation and Beckum-Stapleton Little League were all assisted by the Fellowship Open in 2006. Through the combined outreach efforts of these community-based, non-profit organizations, youth in schools and churches (and on fields, playgrounds, diamonds and courts) were meaningfully aided in their empowerment journey.

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2005 Dr. Wesley Scott Raised in the hills of West Virginia, a coal miner’s son, the 2005 Fellowship Open Community Leadership Honoree Dr. Wesley L. Scott would serve his country in the South Pacific during World War II, tour India and Saipan returning home as a full-blown Army captain, and then go on to fulfill his parent’s hopes of advancement through education and become the first of his 18 brothers and sisters to graduate from college. His educational journey began at historically black West Virginia State College - one of the original 19 HBCU colleges and universities - before transferring to Xavier University in New Orleans where he majored in Biology and Chemistry graduating cum laude. After receiving his Master’s Degree in Social Welfare from Ohio State University, Dr. Scott was awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Public Service from UW-Milwaukee in 1989 and an Honorary Doctorate of Laws from Cardinal Stritch University in 1990.

Wesley Scott’s path to Milwaukee went directly through the Urban League. In 1951, he became Executive Director of the Massillon, Ohio Urban League where he served for eight years. In 1958, he relocated to Milwaukee accepting the post of Deputy Executive Director until his promotion to Director one year later. For the next 23 years, Dr. Scott championed employment and vocational opportunities for Blacks throughout the 1950’s and led the battle for civil rights into the 1960’s. His tenacious advocacy inspired legions of new educators and social activists like Dr. Howard Fuller, and his impassioned efforts opened the doors of opportunity for African Americans during one of Milwaukee’s most volatile social and political periods.

After leaving the Urban League in 1981, Dr. Scott served as a consultant for the Metropolitan Milwaukee Chamber of Commerce where he coordinated the outreach and engagement efforts of the Milwaukee Minority Business Council. In so doing, he laid the foundation for many business leaders seeking a way to make a positive difference in the community to connect with like-minded partners through the amalgamation of the Fellowship Open. His input toward engagement and sustenance proved instrumental in the coalition of the corporate, civic and community partnership design that has become the blueprint for the success of the Fellowship Open. Dr. Scott consulted for the MMAC until his illness and untimely passing in 2005. In tribute to his memory, Gorman & Company partnered with the Milwaukee Urban League to redevelop their former headquarters into 80 apartment homes for seniors named the Dr. Wesley L. Scott Senior Living Community.

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Several deserving non-profit organizations were selected as recipients of funding for 2005. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee, Neighborhood House of Milwaukee, Inc., Parklawn Assembly of God Church Youth Department, Running Rebels Community Organization and the YMCA Black Achievers, initiatives and organizations working tirelessly to empower and enlighten Milwaukee youth and families.

“Through a vibrant network of committed corporations and community organizations, these young scholars are bonded to business.

They receive paid internships while matriculating and firm employment options and offers post-graduation. This career advancement aspect of their individual professional development highlights the particularity of the MKE Fellows program, and quantitatively demonstrates program success through these sustained, committed partnerships.

— Julia H. Taylor, President Greater Milwaukee Committee

“The Fellowship Open is one of the most significant community supports for youth programming in Southeastern Wisconsin.

A vibrant economy and wholesome society relies on a fully participatory citizenry. I’m grateful to the Fellowship Open for twenty years of commitment and resources to this necessary cause!”

— Gerard A. Randall, Jr., Executive Director Milwaukee Education Partnership 35

2004 Dr. Lorraine Carter and Robert Harris Jr. In terms of community-wide admiration and respect, and in terms of measurable positive impact on youth and families, the 2004 Fellowship Open Community Leadership Honorees fill those categories to overflow.

As her colleagues and contemporaries Vel Phillips, Lloyd Barbee, Marcia Coggs and others were blazing trails in their respective socio-economic and political worlds, Ms. Carter was compelled to make a difference through education - a characteristic ingrained in her upbringing. As an educator and administrator with vision to comprehend need and understand solution, she labored to deliver quality education to the underserved. Ms. Carter gained progress toward delivery of quality educational services to at-risk children in Milwaukee through the establishment of the V. E. Carter Development Group for which she served as President and CEO. The V. E. Carter Child Development Center and Carter School of Excellence further served those purposes after her long and distinguished tenure as a teacher in both the Chicago and Milwaukee Public School Systems, and as a Manager with the YWCA of Greater Milwaukee and United Migrant Opportunity Services. In her own words, “I envision a Milwaukee that can be looked to as the city which dropped from the leading racist community to the most tolerant of big cities. I believe my role is to assist in any manner possible to bring about this metamorphosis. My work in economic development and early childhood development with children and parents is a part of my contribution toward accomplishing this vision.”

When attempting to quantify, statistics help. In the case of Robert Harris Jr., however, attempting to measure the number of young people he impacted over a lifetime of teaching, coaching and mentoring is virtually impossible. One of Milwaukee’s most beloved youth advocates, Bob’s effervescence and genuine love for youth bore witness through his personal mantra, “One child at a time.” For over three decades he served with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee - that service recognized in perpetuity at the Mary Ryan B&G Branch in Sherman Park where the gymnasium bears his name.

Bob maintained influential roles within the educational community as a teacher and principal with Milwaukee Public Schools and later as a college professor at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

Initially denied entrance to the UWM School of Education because of his race, Robert Harris Jr. became the institution’s first African-American student earning both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, followed by a Ford Fellowship doctorate from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

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His primary avenue of engagement was sports, but it was Bob’s later influence as a coach and mentor which allowed him to implant the importance of fundamental skill development and an attitude of sportsmanship and respect. For the many young people he encountered in desperate need of mentorship, guidance and positive role models to emulate and advance their own lives, Bob was the man. A quiet-but-compelling leader who will always be remembered for the generosity of his spirit, the richness of his laugh, and his unequivocal compassion for youth, the 2004 Fellowship Open was proud to salute Community Leadership Honoree Robert Harris Jr. Established by long-time Fellowship Open volunteer and advocate ReDonna Rogers, the Center for Teaching Entrepreneurship, Ton Ko-Thi Children’s Performing Ensemble under the direction of Ferne Caulker, the Milwaukee Urban League Education & Youth Program, and the WEB DuBois Club comprised the worthy list of 2004 Fellowship Open Youth organization beneficiaries.

“This is ‘Next Level’ thinking. This is narrative re-written, lives changed— and it’s generational. It is precisely the sound, wraparound provisions of the MKE Fellows which have resulted in its tremendous, measurable success.”

— Michael Barber, Chief Diversity Officer/ Vice President General Electric Company

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2003 John H . Givens ∫∫∫ Acknowledged as one of Milwaukee’s foremost civil rights activists throughout the tumultuous 1960s and ’70s, 2003 Fellowship Open Community Leadership Honoree John Givens served as living testimony to community empowerment in the struggle for equality. Of great significance, John served as the first chairman of the Milwaukee chapter of the Congress of Racial Equality (C.O.R.E.) in the early 1960s, and as a lead adviser to the NAACP Youth Council prior to the historic City Hall sit-ins led by Father James Groppi. He oversaw the Model Cities program under Mayor Henry Maier, was twice president of the LaVarnway Branch of the Boys and Girls Club and Executive Director of the Milwaukee County Community Day Reporting Center. In establishing an infrastructure within community resources to provide vital services to those disproportionately affected by poverty, racism and exclusion, John Givens had few equals. A celebrated community leader and recognized pioneer of racial equality and social justice, the 2003 Fellowship Open was overjoyed to acknowledge the life-long service of John Givens.

Several deserving, well-established youth programs and initiatives were afforded much needed financial support from the 2003 Fellowship Open including the 100 Black Men of Milwaukee – Youth Program, long-time Milwaukee coach and mentor Roy Hill’s Athletes for Youth, which Green Bay Packer Hall of Famer Willie Davis helped found in the late 1970’s, the nationally acclaimed African American Children’s Theatre under the guidance and direction of Constance Clark, the Milwaukee (WI) Chapter of the Links, Inc. Youth Volunteer Project and New Hope Missionary Baptist Church – Youth Outreach Program.

Among others, Milwaukee’s own native son, multi-Grammy winner Al Jarreau also stopped by to join the festivities and celebrate with us during the 2003 Fellowship Open.

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2002 Dr. Harold Rose In seeking to establish the principles of educational advancement as the foundational bedrock of the Fellowship Open’s youth-targeted fundraising efforts, the second annual Fellowship Open was pleased to acknowledge University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Geography and Urban Studies, Harold M. Rose, as its Community Leader Honoree in 2002.

Native Tennessean Dr. Rose received his PhD in Geography from Ohio State University in 1960 and after teaching assignments at Northwestern University, UCLA, Washington University and Florida A&M, in 1962 he joined the faculty at UWM where his profound influence on thousands of young students burgeoned. Throughout most of the 1970’s, Dr. Rose alternately chaired UWM’s Department of Urban Affairs (later Urban Studies) and Department of Afro-American Studies (later Africology). It was during that tumultuous and transitional time in American history that he implanted and nurtured seeds of wisdom and encouragement through his teaching, cultural consciousness and advocacy for social justice. While the number of young people Dr. Rose worked with is impossible to enumerate, he touched the lives of countless urban scholars, affixing an imprint on Milwaukee’s educational landscape that resonated with and gave outlet to his personal mission to empower.

Through increased awareness, program expansion, capacity-building and any number of other organizational strengthening methodologies, many community residents were afforded great aid through the 2002 Fellowship Open’s ability to provide financial support for the Believers in Christ Youth Program at Bethel Baptist Church, DLH Academy, the Thurgood Marshall Scholarship Fund and Transitions: Men of Tomorrow.

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2001 Attorney Horace George In the beginning, it was just a simple vision to uplift and move the community forward by embracing youth and doing everything possible to ensure their success. A founding contributor to that vision was esteemed Milwaukee Attorney Horace Raymond George. That Attorney George had a particular affinity for youth both complemented and bolstered the pool of local business resources, establishing a mission based upon educational advancement. While his list of “firsts” is prodigious, it was Attorney George’s vital role in the conception, design and construction of this ground-breaking youth initiative which proved most fruitful for those he sought to empower.

The need to galvanize and deploy developmental resources for young people in Milwaukee’s African American community was overwhelming. Joe Kennedy, Attorney John W. Daniels, Jr., Jim Allen, Chuck Rhodes and Attorney George devised a method of selective recruitment, immersive engagement and managed philanthropic outreach that was attached to a strategic plan of action, creating a manner in which to facilitate collaboration between like-minded corporate and community stakeholders to serve youth. This small collective foresaw a way to assemble resources and target youth-serving organizations and youth-focused initiatives through a unique partnership of community, civic and corporate stakeholders. That common objective underscored the blueprint from which the seeds of empowerment have grown from a simple golf tournament into a national empowerment model for the academic success of collegiate African American males.

Founded on the affirmation of continuous developmental support, inaugural recipients of funding generated by the first Fellowship Open included Christ the King Baptist Church Youth Family Community Center, Community Village, Ltd., Holy Redeemer Institutional Church of God in Christ, OK DCC, and New Testament Church of Milwaukee.

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Epilogue In seeking to acknowledge every group, organization, and individual who over 20 years has given of their time, talent and/or money to a cause, inevitably someone’s name may be missed. For every person who has found it within their purpose to give to the Fellowship Open, we salute you and ask that you please accept our heartfelt thanks for everything you have done and continue to do to sustain this remarkable community undertaking. This includes our honorary chairs, mentors, advisory committee members, speakers and presenters at professional development sessions and events, and so many other incredibly special people. We, of course, thank our succession of luminary tournament directors—James Allen, Chuck Rhodes, and Billy Young.

There is one special group of individuals who must be acknowledged as the backbone and lifeblood of the Fellowship Open—our volunteers. A multi-day event involving site and resource management, staff recruitment and oversight, and a year’s worth of multifaceted complexities, deadlines, and personalities requires an army of selfless, tireless, dedicated workers. Summer after summer, under warm Wisconsin sunshine or torrential downpours, our devoted volunteers have been there for us through it all. At 5:30 a.m., before the sunrise, checking-in hundreds of eager golfers anxious to grab their goody bags and tee-off, through hours of luncheon prep, auction tables and breakdowns for another few hundred guests, and well into the traditional Friday night of BBQ bliss on Range Line Road, the literally hundreds of volunteers who have taken on the Fellowship Open as a personal commitment cannot be thanked enough. But we will continue to try. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

For dedicated and loyal service to youth and community, the Fellowship Open lovingly salutes Darlene Austin and her mom Ethel Austin, Shawn Jones, Donna Key, Brenda Sponder, and the corps of Quarles & Brady LLP volunteers and family members who have served valiantly and consistently for two full decades – including every Quarles & Brady chairperson from the firm since our inception. We also salute Dolores (Lenora) Brown, Lessie Hudson, Mary Smith, Johnny Moutry, Jasmine Johnson, Bob Wynn, Andrew Ellis, LeRoy Butler, the Milwaukee (WI) Links, Incorporated, the many MKE Fellows, and all who have given of their time and efforts seeking nothing in return save the uplifting of young people. We thank and gratefully acknowledge Irma Daniels and Erickajoy Daniels for arranging 20 years of superlative weekend events for our visiting out-of-town guests, non-golfing friends, and other special guests.

The Fellowship Open will forever be in your debt.

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MKE FELLOWS PAST & PRESENT Malik Abney Emmanuel Adams Isaiah Adams Reginald Adams Chijioke Agwoeme Emmanuel Akpan DeAndre Algee Shawn Allen Jordan Anderson Josiah Anderson Ka’Von Anderson Obinna Anyamele Zachary Bailey Benjamin Baldwin Demetrius Barnes LaQuan Bates Tyler Beaver Xavier Beckley Desmond Bentley Aaron Blake Jason Boothe Elijah Borg Javin Bradley

Cortez Brown Eric Brown Jerome Brown Samuel Buchanan Roland Buck Zion Bullock Eric Burks Jr. Anthony Burrell Nathan Butler Montréal Cain Adrien Calvert Alvin Cherry Dejwon Cherry Cartier Clark Devion Clay Lioneal Clay Quintin Coby James Cocroft Jcyon Coleman-McGee Jaree Collins Steve Collins Daniel Cook-Leflore Torey Cooper Jr.

Dominique Copeland Noah Cotton Malachi Crenshaw Cory Crosby Jr. Christopher Cross Devon Curtis Omar Dahaba Taijon Dandridge Trenton Daniels Khalil Davis Khari Davis Myles Davis Robert Henry Davis Xavier Davis Kardell Days N’Guessan D. Roland Diby Ishmael Donzo Johnathan Drake Tracy Duncan Jaylin Durham Jordan Edgerson Najee El-Amin Andrew Ellis

Devon Ellis Kierre Elvington Alex Erdmann Henry Eruchalu Travis Evans Isaiah Ezemba Katrel Farrington Lamoriante Finkley Andrew Francis Taurean Galloway Jose Garcia Cameron Garner Nathan Gollop JacQueis Gooch Andre Gordon Isaiah Gordon David Gray Derek Gray Jerome Gray Ryan Gray Justin Greenlee Anthony Greer Damarius Griff

Corey Guy Jr. Joseph Hall Justice Hall-El Ke’Von Hamilton Tay Hampton Trent Hampton Billy Handy Evan Harper Markell Harper DeMarcus Harris Derick Harris Nathaniel Harris Onteria Harris Stanley Harris Ja’mir Hayes Malik Henderson Jeremy Henry Awesome Herring Michael Hicks Dakota Hill Sage Hill Michaiah Hinds Cole Hines

"The agreement platform upon which we build our relationship with educational institutions is based upon a mutual effort and investment in ensuring successful graduation. A collaborative and complimentary support system is fashioned directly with existing on-campus resources and strategically designed to address any and all challenges which may arise or impede progress toward completion."

—Former Director of Business & Community Relations PGA of America Earnie Ellison 43

Corey Hoskins Jamarquan Houston Justice Hudnall Edirissa Hydara Daniel Ifelowo Elisha Ikhumhen Patrick Iyasele Jalonzo Jackson Lazabia Jackson Joshua Jacobson Joshua Jenkins Kentaurias Johnson Miles Johnson Derek Jones Jaylen Jones Shannon Jones II Dracy Jordan Kendall Keith Tyvion Kendrick-LeSueur

Brandon Kennedy Favour Kerobo Devon Kidd Bryce Killibrew Tavirelle Kimbrough-Moore Savaughn King Kevon Knight Rodney Kwaw Ronald Kwaw Brendan LaGrant Odoi Lassey Mark Lawrence II Robert Levy Darius Lewis Coker Lucas Isaiah Lucre Maurice Lucre Trevon Lyle Darrin Madison

Alex Maryland Leon Mason Daquan May DaQuan May Marquise Mays Collins McClain Amani McClellan DaiShawn McCuller-Swan John McGee-Day Makyle McIntyre Martel McMurty Brandon Miller-Navy Martinez Milton Jr. Terrence Moore Anthony Morgan Jonathan Morris Gerron Moss Austin Moutry Desire Muckucha

Mateo Murphy Abdi Mursal Matthew Mutiva Lamarr Nash Donavon Nathaniel Philippe Ndagijimana Michael Nichols Christopher Norvilus J’Sean Nunnery Richard Nwabuzor Tyler Odeneal Daniel Ogunkunle Perez (Moyo) Ogunkunle Lanre Olaniyan Victor Onyango Charles Organ Carleon Outlaw Steven Owens Alexander Paasewe

Bryson Patrick Jayton Peay Jontae Peterson Anthony Pittman Julian Posey Brandon Ramey Isaiah Randolph Devin Reese Beau Reeves Jalen Reynolds Tristan Reynolds Christopher Robinson Jaylyn Robinson Jordyn Robinson Lemont Robinson Edward Rogers Michael Rogers Jerry (JT) Ruffin Desharr Saddler

“Church Mutual Insurance has a long history and rich tradition of supporting education initiatives in the communities where we work, live and conduct business.

The MKE Fellows program is making a tremendous difference in the lives of many African American men, and the results are simply outstanding. If someone had not helped me, I would not be where I am today. Therefore, along with the CEO, board of directors and leadership team of Church Mutual, I wholeheartedly support the MKE Fellows program. This initiative is providing hope and a path forward for many deserving individuals. Congratulations on the 20th anniversary of the Fellowship Open!”

— John Tribble, Assistant Vice President/Chief Diversity Officer Church Mutual Insurance Company Fellowship Open

“Our dreams become plans, our plans become missions, our missions become accomplished, and our lives become satisfying!”

— Michael Hyler, Engagement Specialist for MKE Fellows

Osbee Sampson Dellshun Sanders Moustapha Sarr Raynique Scott Jacquari Scott-Dotson Moustapha Seck Darou Seye Kellen Sharp Troy Shaw Miles Sigh Kevin Simmons Zechariah Simmons Kavell Sims Donald Singleton Donte Skinner Amos Smith Brandon Smith Corion Smith Jayden Smith Michael Snowden Braylen Stevens Brendan Stevenson Anthony Stewart Eric Stewart Nicholas Stokes Jaelyn Suggs Kaleb Tatum Karl Tatum Alan Tavarez William Taylor Dennis Taylor III

Kenyon Terrell Daren Thomas Justin Thomas Quinton Thomas Brelyn Thompson Tyler Thompson Antoine Torrence Michael Tucker Trevon Tyler Derrick Tynefield-Higgenbottom

T.K. Valhmu Phoenix Ventress Michael Vernio Jeremiah Walker Kalen Walker William Walker Brenden Ward Pairreon Warren Eric Washington Marques Washington

Aaron Wilder Justin Wilks Artayvious Williams Ja’Quan Williams Jadon Williams Kyle Williams John Williams II Hikeem Williams-Davis Christian (CJ) Wilson Kadeam Wilson Edward Wingard D’landric Winzer Patrick Woodley Garrison Woods Elijah Wortham Shaquille Wright ... and many more to come!

Nathanael (Squeaky) Washington

Noah Waters Kendrick Watkins Zavontie Weary Robert Webb Kenneth Webber Shiloh Weber Aaron Wells Isaac Wells Jayson White Eric Whitelaw 45

"It would be easy simply to cite the national 35% college graduation rate for African American males in contrast to the 85% rate for the MKE Fellows – there are many reasons which factor into that equation. Understanding why the MKE Fellows initiative works and how that percentage will be maintained is achieved through strategic insight of the program’s fundamental structure and integrity."

— Dr. Donald D. Danzler, Jr., Ph.D./ABD, Wisconsin Center for Education Research

Fellowship Open

2020 H onoraryCommittee “In 2020, the Fellowship Open golf event will celebrate its 20th anniversary–nearing $3 million raised, well over 100 community and faith-based organizations helped, and almost 200 young scholars matriculating across the country as MKE Fellows. While it may be hard to surpass Jackie JoynerKersee as an honoree, milestones will be reached again next year.”

— Green Bay Packers Super Bowl Champion LeRoy Butler

Joe L. Kennedy Founder

John W. Daniels, Jr. Chairman

John W. Daniels, III. President

Event Coordinators Darlene Austin Raegina Hyler

Treasurer Shawn Jones

Brandon Adams Stephen Adams Jim Allen Ray Allen Amos Anderson Kevin Anderson Justin Baker Patrick Baldwin Emile Banks Michael Barber LaVaughn Barker Mandela Barnes Errol Barnett Jaison Battle Ivor Benjamin Chris Boston Ulysses Bridgeman Stanley Brister Randy Bryant Leroy Butler Louis Butler Marvin Bynum David Carr Spencer Coggs Virgis Colbert William Coleman Brian Cooke Grady Crosby David Crowley Clifton Crump Sheldon Cuffie Bert Davis Joe Davis Willie Davis Augustine Doe John Dowell

Tyrone Dumas Raullo Eanes Courtney Eison Ben Engel Harvey Felder Noah Fenceroy Rodney Ferguson Johnnie Fields Jr Jerry Fulmer Jon Gaines Eric Gallien Ali Garba Blaine Gibson Kingsley Gobourne Andre Gordon Albert Grace Dextra Hadnot Emery Harlan Ken Harris Charles Harvey Kalan Haywood Paul Hickerson Joseph Hill Willie Hines, Jr. George Hinton Larry Hisle Ralph Hollmon Corey Hoze Anthony Hudson Nkem Iroegbu Carl Jenkins William Jenkins Cavalier Johnson Lennor Johnson Oscar Johnson, Jr. Gregory Jones

Michael Jones Kevin Joy Abim Kolawole George Koonce Robert LaGrant Walter Lanier Richard Lewis Kenneth Little Earnell Lucas Vincent Lyles Greg Martin William Martin Charles Matthews Cedric Mays Claude McFarlane Thad McGrew Lafayette McKinney Tim McMurty, Jr. Chris Miskel Brian Mitchell Thomas Mitchell Sidney Moncrief Elmer Moore, Jr. John Moutry, Jr. Cory Nettles Kevin Newell Reggie Newson Ulice Payne Donovan Pepper Ahmad Perry Arthur Phillips Keith Posley Al Pinckney Marvin Pratt Mark Purnell LaNelle Ramey

Gerard Randall Pepi Randolph John Ridley Scott Rochelle Floyd Rose Mark Rose Anthony Ross Christopher Rowland Lon Rudolph Mark Sain Dennis Shields Gaulien Smith, Jr. Robert Smith Tony Smith Franco Spraggins Russell Stamper, Jr. Perry Stuckey, III Andrew Taylor Michael Taylor Mark Thomas Anthony Timmons Rodney Tyson Derek Tyus Mark Wade Kenneth Waller Christopher Ware Isaiah Washington Larry Waters Gregory Wesley Andrew Williams Roger Williams Ronald Williamson Wyman Winston Anthony Woods Robert Wynn Billy Young 47

Off theCourse

Fellowship Open

Through the Years From Attorney John W. Daniels, Jr., Fellowship Open Founder and Chairman “A special salute of thanks and admiration to those Honorary Chairs who have served the Fellowship Open since the very beginning – 2000-2020”

Steven Adams James Allen Emile Banks Ulysses Bridgeman Emery Harlan Larry Hisle William Jenkins Fred Jones Kenneth Little Lafayette McKinney John Moutry Cory Nettles LaNelle Ramey Christopher Ware Greg Wesley Billy Young 49

The True Meaning of Friendship

Fellowship Open

The True Meaning of Friendship

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The True Meaning of Friendship “The times we spent in laughter and service, joy and fellowship will never be forgotten.We love you dearly.

Thank you, our Beloved Ethel.�

In fond memory of Ethel Austin from the entire Fellowship Open family

Fellowship Open

Brad Bernard Commemorative Portrait In celebration of our 20th Anniversary, the Fellowship Open commissioned renowned Milwaukee artist Brad Bernard to capture the special occasion on canvas. The commemorative painting depicts the likenesses of five of the Olympians, World Champions and Hall of Fame athletes who’ve served as Fellowship Open Legends Honorees over the past 20 years. Those include Olympic Gold Medalist Jackie Joyner-Kersee and Hall of Fame legends Henry Aaron, Oscar Robertson, Wayne Embry, and Willie Davis.

Fellowship Open Founder Joe L. Kennedy and Milwaukee corporate icon Thelma Sias are also portrayed in tribute to Civic and Community Leadership and the 20-year history of the event. To complete the rendering, several MKE Fellows graduates are shown denoting their institutions of matriculation, acknowledging their outstanding achievement, and saluting their initial success as well as that yet to come.

Brad Anthony Bernard is an art instructor, exhibiting artist, community arts advocate, scholar, and entrepreneur. A native of Madison, Wisconsin, Bernard received a Bachelor of Fine Arts in painting from the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design in 1993. He obtained his Master of Fine Arts from the University of Mississippi in Oxford, Mississippi in 2003. He has received numerous mural commissions both public and private for churches, schools, and community centers in the Milwaukee area.

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Special Friends and Contributors To all of those Fellowship Open FRIENDS and PATRONS who have taken TIME to PROVIDE support and encouragement along the way, our DEEPEST GRATITUDE! Milwaukee Community Journal

Pat Pattillo, Publisher

Thomas Mitchell, Editor Yvonne and Harry Kemp Valerie Daniels-Carter Michele McCormack Milwaukee Business Journal: Kira Lafond, Editor Milwaukee Courier WJMR Jammin’ 98.3 FM/Roger Williams Don M. Roman CBS 58 TV

Mike Strehlow, Anchor

Kent Harrell, News Director

Mark Strachota, VP/GM 1290 WMCS Radio: Eric Von, Air Personality Mike Anderson Ralph Hollmon TMJ4 TV

Shannon Sims, Anchor

Carole Meekins, Anchor DeMarco Morgan Milwaukee Times/Nate and Lynda Jackson-Conyers V&J Foods, Inc. Mother Kathryn Daniels Conference Center Sylvester Sims Ras Ammar Nsoroma Maggie Waldmyer Reggie Williams Leviathan Whitfield Christopher Perceptions Montréal Cain Fellowship Open

See you in 2021 at

Silver Spring Golf Club, Menomonee Falls for the

21st annual Fellowship Open

About the Author California native Billy Young originally traveled to Milwaukee in 1979 to begin a radio career with Willie Davis, Green Bay Packer Hall of Famer and Wisconsin businessman, then-owner of famed radio stations WAWA-AM and WLUM-FM HOT 102. What began as talent behind the mic quickly led to important roles with a series of initiatives focused on empowering communities: the Gang Reduction Program (GRP), the Disproportionate Minority Confinement Committee, African World Festival Board of Directors, Milwaukee Brewers and FBI Community Engagement Board.

Key to these roles was a mutual trust, respect and passion Young developed with a host of community leaders focused on youth development, including Attorney John Daniels, Jim Allen and Joe Kennedy, the initial think tank for the Fellowship Open. These relationships took him on a journey across a myriad of appointments – Executive Director of the Kathryn Daniels Youth Center, WIAA State Officials Advisory Committee, President of the Midwest Minority Officials Association, all focused on uplifting young people.

Key to his involvement with the Fellowship Open was his kindred relationship with Jim Allen. Both were 30-year NCAA and Wisconsin state NFHS basketball officials, through which they had bonded, strategized and worked side-by-side for two decades.

Auspiciously, both had been running golf tournaments for many years. Allen was the longtime organizer of the Milwaukee Frontiers golf tournament while Young, through his Next Level Events Specialists, had spent eight years coordinating golf outings from South Beach to Palm Springs, primarily for the music industry. Fostered through their common interest in athletics and youth empowerment, the two found an immediate connection with the mission of the Fellowship Open and agreed to join the team as Co-Directors of the fledgling organization. The rest is Open history.

Along with his many professional and community activities, Young has served as a freelance writer, including narratives, anecdotes, scripts and accounts documenting the history of the Fellowship Open. In this commemorative 20th anniversary publication, he captures many poignant Fellowship Open moments —from intimate exchanges between some of the world’s most powerful and influential individuals to snapshots of Milwaukee’s next generation of leaders.

Images of Champions and Olympians. Corporate and Community leaders. Icons in business, politics, science, and medicine. Young people just beginning their journeys. Inquisitive young minds being molded and challenged.

Inspiring moments of teaching, mentoring, advising and embracing paired with equally compelling images of encouragement and promise. Moments of quiet reflection and boisterous celebration. Unforgettable moments and images of applause, tears and transformation. Truly, moments of celebration, captured in words and pictures.

Author’s Dedication: For my sons, Josh and Zak, forever my friend John Daniels, and Pops – only because of you..

Fellowship Open