2023 NAACP Arizona State Conference Gala Program

Greetings&Salutations

I

am pleased and honored you all have joined us this evening to help celebrate this wonderful occasion of the annual NAACP Arizona State Conference Holiday Gala Extravaganza. This year the event, which serves as a fundraiser, marks my retirement as state NAACP president. For the last 11 years I have served in this capacity, and I have volunteered for the great national civil rights organization for as many as 42 years in Arizona.

I would like to thank the many Branch presidents, executive officers, committee chairs and the general membership across the state. It has been a pleasure serving so many incredible individuals over the years who have given so much of their time and made numerous sacrifices and commitments that made my work so much easier. For four decades, I had the pleasure of working with a network of dedicated freedom fighters and civil rights activists. I will never forget their contributions and service to our communities.

I appreciate everyone who worked, marched, traveled, provided financial resources, and took time from their families trying to level the playing field to make a positive impact for the cause of defending our democracy and attempting to make a difference to balance the scales of social and economic equality in all aspects of public life in our communities, schools, justice system and political arena. I humbly thank you for your contributions and your dedicated service.

I am grateful and proud to be a part of the NAACP family, and I honor the founding members more than 114 years ago for their bravery, mission and sacrifices.

Our charge and mission has been to eliminate racial discrimination and indifference in the nation. Much has been accomplished; however, more needs to be done to repair our broken democracy. The fundamental right to vote continues to be under attack and creating a threat to our democracy.

For the upcoming election in 2024, we hold the most powerful tool to make our democracy work. The leaders we elect and the policies we implement will affect our communities, state, and nation and will make or break how we continue to thrive in this country for several decades to come. Together, let’s amplify our voices to make sure solutions to our most pressing rights are equitable by voting and getting involved and defending our democracy. Too much is at stake. Let’s step up our civil engagement in 2024; if we don’t, we have no one to blame but ourselves.

I would like to thank the corporate sponsors, volunteers and congratulate the honorees on their accomplishments. I also would like to thank each of you for supporting my retirement gala this evening. Your support, by attending this NAACP Arizona State Conference Holiday Gala Extravaganza, helps raise funds so that I can help support the next leadership team; it also shows me your love and appreciation for my small contributions and service. I truly thank you.

Finally, I would like to thank my wife, Dr. Lucille Fanniel, for understanding my passion and supporting me as I spent countless hours away from home. Thank you, Dr. Honey, for your love and sacrifice! You often told me: “You’re not married to me; you are married to the NAACP!” Well, now I am coming home, Honey!

Yours Truly,

Charles Fanniel

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December 16, 2023 Greetings: It is my great pleasure to congratulate and thank the NAACP Arizona State Conference on the occasion of your Holiday Gala, “Thriving Together.” I am grateful to serve and privileged to occupy this space as leader of the nation's first and largest grassroots civil rights organization. It is my honor to stand with every branch and state conference in our fight to enact true and equitable change in this nation.

Our commitment to fulfilling the promise of America may be under renewed attack from far-right elements in the states, in Congress, and even in the Supreme Court, but we – the NAACP – will not allow our work to be in vain. We will not be silenced, and the course of our story will not be changed. We have a powerful story to tell, and you – leaders, volunteers, members – are the main characters of our story; the most powerful network of activists and community leaders in this nation and the driving force for good in our communities.

Our vision for the future of America is that of a more inclusive economy, the rights and dignity of every person, voting rights for all, affordable and accessible health care, and an end to environmental and climate injustices. We continue to mobilize the most comprehensive data-driven Black civic engagement campaign in the nation, and you are the boots on the ground reaching far and wide into communities across our country. Our fight has never been stronger, with our lawyers and policy experts securing desegregation, voting rights, and justice for Black communities in places like Charleston, South Carolina, and Mason, Tennessee; and we are just getting started. We will not stop until student debt relief becomes a reality, and we must turn out the vote in every election to have a representative body that reflects our priorities and protects Black women.

We are moving from a deficit mindset. We have everything we need to succeed and the power to bring about the changes we want to see – and we are using it.

We will continue to rededicate and reignite ourselves to the work of creating a more perfect union no matter the odds set before us. I am proud to lead the NAACP at this historic moment; coming alongside and thriving together with NAACP champions of equal opportunity and social justice who will write a story of a nation where all its people had equal opportunity to thrive.

Thank you.

Peace and Power,

Derrick Johnson

December 16, 2023 NAACP Arizona State Conference Greetings: Congratulations to the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) Arizona State Conference as you come together for your Holiday Gala, “Thriving Together.” Thank you for your continued commitment and ongoing efforts toward our 114-year mission to ensure equal rights and eliminate racial hatred and discrimination across our nation.

Today, in 2023, we are confronted by policymakers who have based their personal quest for political power on campaigns clearly intended to deny the teaching of our history. They continue to wage a war on education and to create new ways to criminalize our brothers and our sisters. A century of progress is severely under attack and the fruit of our labor challenged by the forces of retrogression, fear, and hate. White supremacy is openly espoused by policymakers and power brokers at all levels of government and many in the private sector. With recent rulings, we see the courts rolling back long-held precedents that protected civil and human rights. Our freedom and democracy are at stake.

We must have a clear understanding of the importance of who is nominated and confirmed to sit in judgement of our nation’s most important questions. When we fail to engage in the electoral process, we deny our power, which is our vote. Every NAACP unit must be a part of the NAACP civic engagement process; much of our work depends upon laws, regulations, funding, and administration.

The ability to create and implement public policy will determine the impact of our work on the lives of those who live in the communities we represent. With active Political Action Committees, and in collaboration with partner groups, we must ensure policymakers are put in place who truly believe in government for and by all people. The NAACP is an advocacy organization. Our mission is to be the voice for our community on all issues of public policy; education, healthcare, criminal justice, climate justice, with the next generation of freedom fighters ready and equipped to take up the fight.

We are the NAACP; we are what democracy looks like. This nation belongs to all of us. We only thrive as a nation when each of us has an equitable share of opportunity and when we embrace our shared humanity. When we work and fight together for justice and equity, we thrive together; when we thrive together, we protect the promise of our nation and we win.

Yours in the struggle,

Leon W. Russell

Greetings to the NAACP Arizona State Conference!

I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to you on your Annual Freedom Fund.

The work of the Arizona State Conference of NAACP, ensures that justice, equality and freedom is available to all. President Charles Fanniel, the State Executive Committee and the Branch Presidents across the state are to be commended for your success.

Your steadfast commitment to the cause of equity and justice has sustained the NAACP and allowed it to survive for more than 114 years. Despite our best efforts, our work is not complete. We need you now more than ever before to combat the rising tide of hatred and intolerance swelling across our country. I encourage you to recruit new members and mobilize others to join us as we seek to make sure that America’s promise, will become a reality in our communities.

This time calls on us to continue to recognize and understand that real power is the cumulative effect of individuals organizing, educating, mobilizing and casting their vote and then holding elected officials responsible for decisions that impact our daily lives.

On behalf of the NAACP Field and Membership team, I hope that tonight will inspire, encourage and motivate all who are in attendance and strengthen your commitment and dedication to remain true to our mission; to achieve equity, political rights and social inclusion by advancing policies and practices that expand human and civil rights, eliminate discrimination and accelerate the well-being, education and economic security of Black people and all persons of color.

In Unity,

Carmen R. Watkins Senior Vice President Membership Growth & Unit Sustainability

The Arizona Youth & College councils and chapters thank you Mr. Charles Fanniel for your efforts in shaping the next generation of civil rights leaders and allowing us to make waves We will forever be FIRED UP!

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Dear Friends,

It is my honor to welcome you to the 2023 NAACP Arizona State Conference and Gala!

For over a century, the NAACP has led the fight for civil rights and social justice in Arizona. As a member of Congress representing Arizona, it is an honor to have your organization’s steadfast dedication to democracy, dignity, and freedom in our state.

I would like to recognize and thank Arizona State Conference President, Charles Fanniel, and all the Branch officers across the state for their leadership and work to put this event together. I am inspired by your tireless commitment to ending racial, economic, and social inequality in our state and nationwide.

I hope this event will be an opportunity for members to come together, celebrate, learn, and move forward with purpose.

Enjoy the program!

Sincerely,

Ruben Gallego MEMBER OF CONGRESS

Dear Friends!

It is an honor to welcome you to the Arizona State Conference for the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) Annual Holiday Gala Extravaganza.

The NAACP is an enduring, unifying force for good – nationwide and especially across Arizona. It’s essential that we act daily in support of their mission to secure political, educational, social, and economic equality, to eliminate race-based discrimination, and to ensure the health and well-being of all persons. This Holiday Extravaganza allows our community to come together to reflect on and celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of the Arizona Conference.

The NAACP’s vision of an equitable future is one that we all share. The hard work is not over yet, but thanks to the NAACP, leaps and bounds have been made. The NAACP sees the big picture – progress takes effort on many fronts. Their tireless advocacy for economic sustainability, accessible health care, education, voting rights, civic engagement, and criminal justice reforms have made historical, generational, and lasting changes. I am continually impressed by the dedication and many achievements of Arizona’s NAACP, and this year was no exception.

I would also like to congratulate and thank President Charles Fanniel for his decades of service with the Conference. Over his 11 years as the State President and more than 40 years of volunteerism and advocacy, Charles has proven himself as the backbone of the Arizona Conference. Charles’ leadership has elevated this organization tremendously, and his legacy will be be forgotten.

Lastly, please join me in recognizing all those who contributed their time, talents and resources in support of the Arizona State Conference to make this celebration possible. Thank you for all the incredible work. Arizona is better because of you. I look forward to renewing our shared commitment to make our community a more just place where all feel welcome to live, work, and thrive.

Sincerely,

Greg Stanton Member of Congress

December 16, 2023

Dear Members and Guests of the NAACP Arizona State Conference,

It am honored to help recognize the NAACP Arizona State Conference at your annual fundraising dinner.

The long-standing dedication of the NAACP Arizona State Conference on improving and accelerating the well-being, education and economic security for all people, exemplifies service and a deep commitment to community. Your work to eliminate discrimination and to ensure everyone, regardless of race, have the ability to exercise their civil and human rights is critical to ensuring that the foundation of our democracy remains intact for future generations to come.

Thank you for the work that you have done and continue to still do. I am proud to represent Arizonans like you in the United States Senate. Gabby and I wish you all the best in the years to come.

Sincerely,

MARK KELLY United States Senator

December 12th, 2023 NAACP Arizona State Conference P.O. Box 20605 Phoenix, AZ 85036 Dear Friends, It is with profound sadness that I must decline the gracious invitation to join you on Saturday, December 16th, at your annual fundraiser and holiday gala. I am certain it will be a wonderful evening, and I look forward to hearing of its success.

From its territorial days, Arizona has been enriched and enlivened by the contributions of its Black citizens, and we are forever indebted to the brave and tireless efforts of those who founded this State Conference and their heirs in the necessary work of fighting for social justice and equity. While it is forever disappointing that such work was and still is necessary, we can only be inspired by the legacy of leaders such as: Hazel Daniels; Carl Sims; Lincoln and Eleanor Ragsdale; and countless others from whom we inherited an Arizona that was better for their contributions.

My office joins me in thanking you for your valuable work, and we wish you your most successful gala yet, as well as a most joyous holiday season!

Fondly,

We want to congratulate the Honorees and Mr. Charles Fanniel for his many years of dedicated service!

Hon. Sandra D. Kennedy Former Commissioner

Become a monthly sustainer, a collective of movement makers and champions for inclusion, equity and justice in Arizona and around the world. unities Your gift helps comm drive amplify their voices to change. bigger, better, lasting

Mahogany Kennedy South Mountain Constable

December 16, 2023 Dear Members of the NAACP Arizona State Conference, On behalf of the city’s 1.7 million residents, it is my pleasure to congratulate you on your 2023 Holiday Gala! The theme for this year’s event, “Thriving Together,” serves to reinforce the longstanding relationships that you, along with your local branches located throughout Maricopa and Penal counties, have maintained with the communities you serve.

I would also like to recognize Mr. Charles Fanniel for your many years of service with the NAACP in Arizona. As you close out your 11 years as the State of Arizona NAACP President, which includes a total of 42 years of volunteer advocacy to this organization, I wish you the very best on your retirement.

Thank you again for your organization’s continued commitment to the cause of civil and human rights throughout Arizona. Your leadership to end discrimination, embrace diversity and ensure greater opportunity for all people is imperative as we build the Phoenix of the future, together.

Best wishes for a successful event!

Sincerely,

Kate Gallego Mayor of Phoenix

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Continue to make our lives better!

Have a memorable Holiday Gala Extravaganza!

December 16, 2023

Hello, Greetings to you and to everyone attending the NAACP State Conference Freedom Fund Gala.

This evening’s celebration is special because it reminds us that protecting our democracy is a call we must answer in our time.

We must protect it. We must preserve it. We must strengthen it.

The great cause of civil rights depends on it.

For the past 114 years, the NAACP has been dedicated to protecting democracy by advancing the mission of justice and equality to move our society closer to the promise of liberty and justice for all. Now, it’s our time to stand together and renew the call for this fight for civil rights, and that includes the right to vote.

The advocacy of the NAACP Arizona State Conference is critical and needed to continue championing the issues that empower our communities.

Let us demonstrate our commitment by working with the NAACP State Conference to preserve democracy for African Americans as we continue the fight for civil rights to bring the promise of true freedom to our communities.

In Unity, Peace, and Justice,

Corey D. Woods Mayor City of Tempe

Greetings, It is my pleasure to congratulate and recognize the Arizona NAACP State Conference President Charles Fanniel this evening. The NAACP has always been the champion for civil rights in Arizona and throughout the country. As a life member, I appreciate the support and efforts of the “Boldest and Baddest” civil rights organization in the world.

Mr. Fanniel has dedicated more than one quarter of a century of his life to the NAACP and should be rightfully recognized for his hard work. As the Arizona State conference NAACP turns the page on the next chapter of continuing to fight for the rights of all people, we can be sure that Charles Fanniel was – and will continue to be – a soldier for the cause.

I want to also recognize all of tonight’s awardees for their tireless efforts to fight for the rights of others and stand strong in the face of adversity. I want to quote my father the Hon. Cloves C. Campbell Sr.: “I have noticed that the people with the resources to help civil rights organizations are the ones who participate the least in any form of civil rights activity until they are attacked.”

Support the NAACP. Join us BEFORE you NEED us!

Yours in the Struggle,

Cloves Campbell Jr. Publisher, Arizona Informant Newspaper

Executive Director Arizona Commission of African American Affairs

LL T

Good evening to the the attendees of this year’s NAACP Arizona State Conference Freedom Fund Gala.

First and foremost, thank you to the hardworking committee that helped to make sure this evening was a success!!

NAACP has dedicated 114 years of being truly committed to fighting for and preserving democracy and justice for so many deserving people. As one of the older civil rights organizations in our country, the NAACP continues a daily fight to preserve justice for ALL!!

With so much work yet to be done, the goals and mission of the NAACP are still needed as the fight for justice and freedoms are greatly needed.

Take time to embrace this evening and discover ways in which we can all help to improve and renew each person’s civil rights as well as always protecting voting rights.

Enjoy this evening, and thank you again to the NAACP Arizona State Conference.

Yours in Service,

Leah Landrum Taylor Honorable Leah Landrum Taylor Former State Senator

Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, F & A.M. Jurisdiction of Arizona, Inc. MW Grand Master Timothy R. Seay Sr. P.O. Box 5781, Glendale, AZ 85312 azprincehallmasons@gmail.com 623.210.3977

RW Grand Secretary Anthony Manning P.O. Box 8278, Phoenix, AZ 85066 amanning46@gmail.com 520.307.1095

Greetings to ALL ACTIVE ORGANIZATIONS, Our fervent prayers that this Proclamation finds all Arizona Jurisdiction Members and Families, Communities, enjoying good health, happiness, and an abundance of blessing of the Grand Architect of the Universe.

PROCLAMATION 12/16/2023 This Proclamation is to give extreme notice and a Big Congratulations to one of our own long serving Arizona Prince Hall past Master Mason, Charles Fanniel, on his official retirement as State President of the NAACP. It is indeed a privilege and a great honor to present this Proclamation coming from The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Arizona Jurisdiction F & A.M. Inc. and its Foundation.

State NAACP President Charles Fanniel, Congratulations on 42 years of servicing the NAACP Organization for the State of Arizona. Thank you for being a committed servant to the underprivileged people, community, churches, youth and over 50 years of services to the Masonic order.

We the Members of the Arizona Prince Hall Masonic Family thank you for all of your kindness and generosity that has been shown consistently over 50 years of diligent and relentless work ethics and hours that has been giving from your heart and soul. It is our hope and prayers and the selfishness of the people that you serve, that this retirement may not be a full retirement but a retirement from physical commitment. Your Mind, Wisdom and Wise Council hopefully will remain in effect as the people, churches and the youth and ALL Master Masons will always honor you as one of the top community servants and leaders!

This Proclamation is given under my Hand and Seal of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge F & A.M. of Arizona Jurisdiction Inc., this 16th Day of December 2023, AD 6023 AL. Take due and timely notice and govern yourselves accordingly.

Fraternally Submitted,

Attest:

Timothy R. Seay Most Worshipful Grand Master

Anthony Manning Grand Secretary

Building Location: 6035 S 24th St, Phoenix, AZ 85042 Office: (602) 268-8511 azprincehallmasons@gmail.com

CHARLES FANNIEL IT IS WITH A BITTERSWEET SENTIMENT THAT WE BID FAREWELL TO CHARLES FANNIEL, AN INVALUABLE PARTNER TO OUR TEAM THROUGHOUT THE YEARS. THE NAACP HAS HOSTED SEVERAL MEMORABLE EVENTS, CONCLUDING EACH YEAR ON A HIGH NOTE, THANKS IN NO SMALL PART TO CHARLES'S CONTRIBUTIONS. WE EXTEND OUR WARM WISHES TO YOU! SINCERELY,

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Gala Program

T H E B L A C K N AT I O N A L A N T H E M

Program & Recognition er n in D m 7p • (no-host bar) Post #65 6pm Reception merican Legion A s am li il W .

L ravis rvis Reddick, T Music: Cmdr Ja Lift ev’ry voice and sing, till earth and heaven ring, Posting of Colors ring with the harmonies of liberty.

South Mountain High School Jr ROTC Let our rejoicing rise high as the list’ning skies, Master of Ceremonies Danny DL White let it resound loud as the rolling sea.

Sing a song full of the faith Invocation Pastor Darrell Grissum that the dark past has taught us.

Senior Pastor, Lily of the Valley Church of God in Christ Sing a song full of the hope Official Song of the NAACP | Lift Ev’ry Voice & Sing that the present has brought us.

Sung by Verlin Sandles Facing the rising sun of our new day begun, Special Introductions & Remarks let us march on till victory is won.

Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs U.S. Representative Greg Stanton Stony the road we trod, Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego bitter the chast’ning rod, felt in the days Acknowledgment of Dignitaries & Proclamations when hope unborn had died; – Dinner Served – yet with a steady beat, Video Presentation History of NAACP • A Year In Review have not our weary feet Entertainment The Grissums & God’s Small Wonders come to the place for which with soloist Verlin Sandles our people sighed?

We have come over a way Special Recognition & Presentations that with tears has been watered.

Marva Lightfoot • Danny DL White • Dr. Dwayne McIntosh We have come, treading our path Michael Williams • Andre Miller thro’ the blood of the slaughtered, Youth Scholarship Awards out from the gloomy past, Deshay Gordon • Jaia Dixon • Chrya Evans till now we stand at last William Richmond • Cherish Jaabir where the bright gleam of our bright star is cast.

Introduction of Keynote Speaker Dr. Warren H. Stewart Sr. God of our weary years, Senior Pastor, First Institutional Baptist Church God of our silent tears, thou who hast brought us Awards Ceremony thus far on the way, Special Tribute to Charles Fanniel thou who hast by thy might Hon. Art Hamilton • Hon. Sandra D. Kennedy led us into the light, Hon. Cloves Campbell Jr. • Hon Leah Landrum Taylor keep us forever in the path, we pray.

Hon. Cody Williams Lest our feet stray from the places, our God, where we met thee; Closing Remarks lest our hearts, drunk with the wine Charles Fanniel of the world, we forget thee; Outgoing NAACP Arizona State Conference President shadowed beneath thy hand, may we forever stand, Bishop Anthony Holt true to our God, Incoming NAACP Arizona State Conference President true to our native land.

Benediction Pastor Chauncey Hatten Sr. South Phoenix Missionary Baptist Church

Li! Ev’ry Voice &Sing

Lyrics by James Weldon Johnson • Music by J. Rosamond Johnson

D

r. Warren H. Stewart, Sr., a native of Coffeyville, Kansas, was reared in a Christian family and AfricanAmerican church environment. He accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Savior at age 16 and preached his trial sermon at age 17. He is senior pastor of First Institutional Baptist Church of Phoenix, Arizona and has served there since July 1, 1977. Dr. Stewart was appointed executive secretary of the Home Mission Board of the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc., in November 1994, serving 10 years. He became an individual life member of the Progressive National Baptist Convention, Inc. in 2019. FIBC also is involved in American Baptist Churches USA, Lott Carey Baptist Foreign Mission Convention and PNBC. Dr. Stewart is an enthusiastic advocate of the sanctity of life ethic which believes that all human life has intrinsic value from conception to natural death. He is also recognized by others as “a man of conscience, commitment and dedication to the cause of moral leadership, human rights and a soldier of justice and equality.” His ministry is characterized by an unwavering commitment and spirit-filled zeal to engage in evangelism and emancipation, meeting the needs of the whole person. As a result, since 1982, FIBC has intentionally become “a discipling fellowship through evangelism and emancipation.”

In the 1990s, he led FIBC in completing three phases of the VISION 2000 Master Plan, which built an educational, administrative and outreach building, acquired additional property, and renovated the worship center at (nearly $4 million). In 2004, a $5 million family life center was built completing the VISION 2000 Master Plan, totaling almost $9 million. In 2019, FIBC purchased historic property east of the FIBC campus. In addition, FIBC established FIBCO Family Services, Inc., Samaritan House for Homeless Families, Ujima House for Unwed Teenage Mothers and their Infants, and sponsors the Broadway House low-income housing complex and several residential homes for the seriously mentally ill – serving thousands.

Dr. Stewart is author of Interpreting God’s Word in Black Preaching (Judson Press, 1984); How to Handle Giants: Sermons to African-American Youth and Their Mentors (Townsend Press, 1995); Do Prophets Exist in Contemporary Culture? (2009); Our Values as a Pastor and People: The Bible Study (2013); and Victory Together for Martin Luther King, Jr.: The Story of Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr., Governor Evan Mecham and the Historic Battle for a Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday in Arizona (2015), as well as has published articles and sermons in several major publications.

He served as chair of the African-American Christian Clergy Coalition, which he co-found in the early 2000s (it represents more than 100 predominantly Black congregations and clergy in the Valley of the Sun). He also has served as: adjunct professor (Ottawa University-Phoenix Campus, Phoenix Seminary and the Doctor of Ministry Program at Fuller Theological Seminary); board of trustees chair of American Baptist Seminary of the West (Berkeley, California); associate minister (1973-1977) of the Cornerstone Baptist Church (Brooklyn, N.Y.), under the pastorate of the late Dr. Sandy F. Ray, in whose honor the Sandy F. Ray Institute for pastors, ministers and lay persons was founded and held annually at First Institutional for years.

At FIBC, Pastor Stewart has licensed 164 sons and daughters into the Gospel ministry.

Dr. Stewart has traveled and preached extensively throughout the United States and internationally to include 38 states and territories, and 60 countries, including a challenging three-week preaching mission in 1985 (sponsored by National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc., Foreign Mission Board) to several African countries including South Africa. He attended the First African/African-American Summit, convened by the late Dr. Leon H. Sullivan, in West Africa during 1991.

FIBC, under Pastor Stewart, built a new church edifice and parsonage for the FIBC of Soweto Republic of South Africa. In April 2004, he was extended an invitation by Executive Secretary Emile D. E. Sam-Peal to serve as guest preacher during the 90th Annual Session of the Liberia Baptist Missionary and Educational Convention, Inc. Since February 2005, first participating on the Baptist World Alliance Mission Team

Keynote Speaker

trip to northeast India, he has been involved in ministry in India. FIBC of Burundi and FIBC of Rwanda also have been organized.

Dr. Stewart served as first general chair for Arizonans for a Martin Luther King, Jr. State Holiday, which contributed significantly to the legislative passage of a holiday September 21, 1989. Dr. Stewart also organized and led Victory Together, Inc., a broad-based coalition that campaigned for a Martin Luther King, Jr./Civil Rights Day in Arizona eventually won by a historic vote of the people in a November 3, 1992 general election. He also has served as president of American Baptist Churches of the Pacific Southwest and Paradise Missionary Baptist State Convention of Arizona, Inc. and Congress, respectively. In 2011, he organized an exploratory committee for the open U.S. Senate from Arizona in 2012 to consider running on a platform of justice. From 2012-2014, Dr. Stewart served as board chair of National Immigration Forum as well as co-organized the Black/Brown Coalition of Arizona.

He was drafted and ran for the Phoenix City Council (District 8 seat) in 2013.

Dr. Stewart’s academic achievements and awards include: associate of arts degree (1971); honor graduate, Coffeyville Community Junior College (Kansas); bachelor of arts degree in religion and philosophy, Bishop College, Dallas, Texas, graduating summa cum laude (1973); master of divinity degree, Union Theological Seminary, New York City (1976); master of sacred theology degree and selected to deliver the UTS commencement address ((1977); doctor of ministry degree, American Baptist Seminary of the West, Berkeley, California (1982); honorary doctor of divinity degree from Ottawa University, Kansas (1994); Award of Excellence in Black Church Studies, Ecumenical Center for Black Church Studies, Los Angeles, California (1982), mentored by the late Dr. Henry H. Mitchell.

Dr. Stewart also has been the recipient of numerous awards and commendations from churches, colleges, civic and community organizations, locally, statewide and nationally. He was recognized by: The Arizona Republic newspaper as one of 10 Most Influential Religious Leaders in the Valley (October 6, 1985); The Phoenix Gazette 1993 Hall of Fame as being “one of ten people whose achievements had the most notable effect on… Arizona”; the Arizona Daily Star (Tucson) as a “Living Legend” (January 20, 2002); the 2003 Calvin C. Goode Lifetime Achievement Award by City of Phoenix/MLK, Jr. Celebration; Phoenix Business Journal as one of 25 “Leaders and Legends” in the business community (2005): Phoenix New Times “Best Pro-Civil Rights Pastor” (2011); and Arizona Informant Faith Community Award (2011). Dr. Stewart was inducted into the 30th anniversary of the Martin Luther King, Jr. College of Ministers & Laity Board of Preachers and had his oil painting portrait unveiled and hung in the Morehouse College Martin Luther King, Jr. International Chapel, Atlanta, Georgia (April 9, 2015).

He was honored by being named a 2017 History Maker by the Historical League, Inc. He also was named 72nd Man of the Year by Valley Leadership (2021). In August 2022, Phoenix City Council voted unanimously to honor Dr. Stewart by naming 12th and Jefferson streets near FIBC “Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr. Way” during his 45th pastoral anniversary.

Pastor Stewart is married to Rev. Dr. Karen E. (Curry) Stewart. They are the parents of a blended family of five sons: Warren, Jr.; Matthew; Jared; Justin; Aaron; and two daughters, Jamila Imani and Jessica Elizabeth (Curry) Morris. He is the grandfather of: Warren Josiah III; Micaiah Lovel; Matthew Christian II; Jared Chamberlain II; Kaira Nechee; John Paul Silas; Jase Alexander; Joshua Elijah; Mia Noelai; Sanaya Elyse; Janelle Elizabeth; Lance Nasir; Jayla Arielle; and “adopted” Jonny Angel.

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anny DL White – the NAACP Arizona State Conference ACT-SO coordinator and the Conference’s coordinator for current political, social and environment issues impacting society – is a community activist, educator, children’s book author and journalist who is passionate about uplifting and inspiring youth.

An avid writer, White has authored children’s books: The Sensational Letter S! (Author House, 2016); and Discovering the SAUNK in U!. During Fall 2018, White developed the First Friday Read-In Initiative at Booker T. Washington Head Start with facilitations of guest readers; the late Hon. Calvin C. Goode was among the participants. In collaboration with Dr. Leroy Jones of Clemson University, White is working to the institute the Call Me MISTER® mentoring program (founded by Jones) throughout the southwest.

He is the founding member of the Pfc. Oscar P. Austin Recognition Committee that annually acknowledges the late officer’s sacrifice and service during the Vietnam Era of the Medal of Honor recipient. The program is in its 10th year and has been recognized by the USMC, the US Navy and Arizona Legislature. To further keep Black history alive, he also regularly contributes to Arizona Informant Newspaper and The Chocolate Voice (San Diego) and has written for Tucson Citizen and Tucson Daily Star.

As an educator, White has served as an adjunct faculty member in the Maricopa Community College District for 13 years teaching a number of courses and implementing community programs that brought a number of new and innovative opportunities to the district’s campuses.

He has tirelessly worked with mental health and educational programs. Professionally, White has worked as a diversion specialist (Pima County Attorney’s Offices) and psych associate (Department of Corrections). He consults with Better Homes Behavior Health, and completes court-ordered assessments for individuals cited on misdemeanor charges.

His community outreach includes domestic violence awareness programs and helping individuals experiencing homelessness. He was instrumental in the Annual Day of Unity Domestic Violence Awareness Programs and fostered the relationship for two peace poles donated and planted at a campus.

White also serves on the Arizona State University Project Humanities Advisory Board, overseeing bimonthly clothing and shoe distributions as well as a monthly Community Food Pantry project.

White has been recognized as a master teacher and outstanding mentor (2010). With the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated, he was named Humanitarian of the Year (2023) for the organization’s newest Xi Nu Nu graduate chapter serving the west Valley and Citizen of the Year (2022). He was Northern Arizona University’s Outstanding Alumni (2004) and Centennial Citizen of the Year (1996).

White is married to the Hon. Phemonia Miller-White, commissioner, and a proud father of two HBCU graduate daughters: Amadi, an engineer (Spellman College & NCAT); and Sakilae (NCAT), currently in a graduate program in the New England area.

Ma"er of Ceremoni#

Special Recognition

YOUTH SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS Deshay Gordon • Jaia Dixon • Chrya Evans William Richmond • Cherish Jaabir

Special Recognition

LEGAL AWARD

Community Awards Dianne Post has been an attorney since 1980. For more than 18 years, she represented battered women and molested children in family and juvenile court. In 1998, she shifted to international human rights law, focusing on sex-based violence, which remains her primary practice today. She has lived in five countries – Russia (Moscow and Far East); Cambodia; Hungary; Algeria; and Kenya – and worked in 14 others for short periods of time.

She is legal director for Secular Coalition for AZ. Locally, she is active in the NAACP, NOW and ERA Task Force Az. She has been active in the local NAACP since 1994, as legal redress chair, board member and state conference attorney. She has written countless letters to inmates, worked on numerous discrimination cases in employment, education, and government, and lobbied for and against legislative measures for decades. She spoke against for-profit prisons in hundreds of organizations and churches across the state from 2011 to 2016, when the federal lawsuit was filed in Arizona. She represented NAACP on the Arizona Supreme Court Task Force on Fair Justice for All: Court-ordered Fines, Penalties, Fees and Pretrial Release Policies for three years.

She started a legislative action alert in 2017 to keep members aware of what the legislature was doing and what actions to take about that.

She is currently representing Randolph residents, a historically Black community, in their struggle against SRP. The parties are actively working on their agreement and dozens of projects are going on in Randolph pursuant to that settlement.

She also has a pending case at the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights regarding the pattern and practice of U.S. judges giving custody and unsupervised visitation to abusers in family law cases. The final merits submission was just filed.

Unfortunately, she is still fighting for reparations for the two cases she won for the Roma in Kosovo.

She has published six law review articles, more than three dozen manuals, more than three dozen articles in five countries, columns in 10 publications, six short stories – four of which have won prizes – and two books.

DIANNE POST

Dr. Danielle M. Gilliam, PharmD, MPH is a SeniorObesity Medical Liaison (ML) with Novo Nordisk Inc. Dr. Gilliam has thorough knowledge of cardiometabolic disease (e.g. obesity, diabetes, NASH) and the science that supports NNI products within those disease states.

Dr. Gilliam attended Xavier University in New Orleans for her undergraduate studies in chemistry and University of Illinois Chicago for her master’s in public health policy and administration and doctorate in pharmacy. Her 20 years in the field of diabetes and obesity includes clinical, research and community experience. Dr. Gilliam is certified in health disparities diabetes education, medical writing and editing. She is a certified lifestyle coach for the National Diabetes Prevention Program.

Dr. Gilliam has a strong commitment to her community. Dr. Gilliam represents American Diabetes Association (ADA) as president of the Community Leadership Board Phoenix Chapter and as a member of Diversity Committee for the National ADA Chapter. She is the Arizona State Conference Health Chair for the NAACP and sits on the board for the Arizona Obesity Organization. She also is a member of: The Obesity Society; Endocrine Society; Obesity Medicine Association; American Pharmacy Association; and Xavier University of Louisiana Alumni Association.

Dr. Gilliam was awarded the Lily Hines-Marbley Advocacy Award by American Diabetes Association Phoenix Chapter twice and the Arizona State Conference NAACP Committee Chair Award in 2018.

Dr. Gilliam lives in Chandler, Arizona. She has two daughters: Jetaunhas does postbaccalaureate research at NIH/NIDDK; her youngest daughter, Devin, is a junior studying sociology/pre-law.

She enjoys jazz, red wine, traveling and cuddling with Isaac Charles, her toy poodle puppy.

DR. DANIELLE M. GILLIAM

HEALTH AWARD

Community Awards

EDUCATION + VETERANS AFFAIRS AWARD

Community Awards Dennis Prince was born in Tuscaloosa, Alabama (where championships are made… Roll Tide!), one of seven children, to parents Cullen and Ethel Prince. His parents made great sacrifices to provide for the family, and loved and cared also for the tight-knit neighborhood where everybody knew one another and demonstrated great love and support. His father was a truck driver, while his mother, an amazing cook, worked at one of the White-only schools and would constantly provide food for the entire neighborhood.

When his mother bought Prince a set of encyclopedias (Britannica), the entire neighborhood used them. “This type of love and support of our neighborhood gave us the support system we needed to survive the segregated neighborhood.”

Ranked in the top 10 of his graduating class (2,500 students), Prince excelled in academics and sports – attending schools deemed “separate but equal.” He was awarded scholarships to 10 colleges.

To further show how his neighborhood defined neighbor: “One year, the day before Thanksgiving Day, our house burned down, and we lost everything. The neighborhood blessed me by collecting money to buy a suit for my graduation. I was able to attend Upper Iowa University on an academic scholarship.”

Prince managed several department stores, such as Sears, Marshalls and Target. His life changed dramatically in a blessed way when he entered the teaching profession in the Kyrene Elementary School District, where he worked for 25 years.

Humbled to be a servant leader, Prince gives back to the community as a member of American Legion Post 65 under the leadership of Commander Jarvis Reddick and works with HeroZona Foundation, Inc., founded by Alan “AP” Powell and Aaron Bare.

Prince’s faith in God and his mercy and grace has allowed him to have the best wife, his ultimate support system.

DENNIS PRINCE

COMMITMENT TO YOUTH AWARD

Community Awards Lanette Campbell is a champion and steadfast supporter of the African American community in Arizona. Her professional career, volunteer engagement, and philanthropic fervor align deeply with NAACP’s mission of eliminating racism and empowering people of color. A true champion for children, Lanette has dedicated herself professionally and personally to making sure black youth in our community has the opportunity to be successful in school and in life.

Recognized statewide as an advocate for Black youth, her love for her community is more than just a job, it is her life’s passion.

Early on in her career, her volunteer service work with NAACP Youth Council, Tanner Chapel AME Children’s Church, South Mountain Salvation Army, Lighting track club and Arizona Informant Foundation provided Lanette with a deep understanding that youth are the future success to our community. Lanette also does not shy away from surfacing racial disparities and closing the gap of opportunity, particularly for children of color. She has advocated for the frame of racial equality by hosting youth freedom forums where youth can be heard and creating applied collective impact initiatives.

With more than 20 years of unshakable devotion with NAACP towards the empowerment of others, Lanette represents the best of servant stewardship in our community. She is a powerful and authentic leader with a quiet yet unyielding approach, able to effect incredible change within our community’s most entrenched social issues. Lanette has served as co-chair of City of Phoenix Police Chief’s African American Advisory Board, City of Phoenix Judicial Selection Advisory Board, National Juneteenth Observance Foundation, South Mountain Community Booster Club, Valley of the Sun Juneteenth Celebration and Arizona MLK Festival.

As founder and director of Arizona Black Rodeo Black Rodeo USA, she produces rodeos across the United States to highlight Black cowboys and cowgirls. She is actively involved in supporting the Black Cowboy Project. With humor, a strategic mind, a humble demeanor, and a “Make it Make Sense” attitude, Lanette provides an infectious tenacity upon others to tackle issues head-on and work to become the leader and champion she so aptly portrays.

LANETTE CAMPBELL

COMMUNITY ACTIVISM AWARD

Community Awards Tim Seay was born on the Westside of Chicago, Illinois, in 1964 to the hard-working parents of Louis and Lillian Seay(deceased). The ethics of hard work and diligence were installed in him by his parents and brother, Troy Seay (deceased). His adult children – Tim Jr. and Ve’lori Seay – are supportive by helping him to identify and use his unique gift of giving from the heart. Tim Seay is the kind of man that does not mind rolling up his sleeves to help people and serve his community.

Tim received his elementary, junior high and High School education in Maywood Illinois. He went on to earn degrees in electrical engineering from DePaul University and Tennessee State. He worked for an electrical utility company (Com Ed) in Chicago as a Lineman and then progressed to be their leading Engineer of the company. Learning the true value of giving more than receiving from his parents Tim has made “Giving More Than Receiving’’ his motto in his adult life. Learning through his parents, books and history about Martin Luther King Jr, Malcolm X and Medgar Evers and other civil rights leaders, Tim has mastered the art of “Paying It Forward” for those that are in need. Tim has also received numerous awards from the city of Chicago for his Philanthropy work. Most admired Citizen of The Year 1997, Most affluent African American under 40 in the City 1998, Top Electrical Engineer for the State 95, 96 just to name a few.

Tim moved to Phoenix Arizona, January 1, 2000 to continue his philanthropy work and community involvement. Tim Seay became a Master Mason in the year 2006 and quickly rose up the ranks of Prince Hall Freemasonry. He is currently a Sovereign Grand Inspector General and 33rd Degree Mason of the United Supreme Council of the United States Southern Jurisdiction. He is also a Deputy of the Orient for Scottish Rites for all of Arizona, he is also President of the 4 Corners Region representing 15 states at large and he is currently the longest serving Honorable Most Worshipful Grand Master in the 104 year history in Arizona Prince Hall Masonry.

Tim has also received numerous award in Arizona for his Philanthropy work as well: Most Recognized Grand Lodge of The Year Award 2022; Stand Up For Justice Award 2020; Living The Dream Award MLK 2020; Love Not Blood Campaign Unsung Hero Award 2021; Grand Master Of The Year Award 2022; Master Mason of The Year Award 2008; and King Solomon # 14 Lodge of the Year 2009-2010 and 2022-23 Tim also belongs to many organizations in Arizona: The Elks Lodge; Life time member of the NAACP; Life time member of Blacks In Government (treasurer); American Legion Post 65; Square-N-Compass Inc (President); Arizona Prince Hall Masons Foundation (President); Prince Hall Shriners (Past President); Commanders of the Rites 33rd Degree; United Supreme Council (Sovereign Grand Inspector General); The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Arizona (President/Grand Master).

Through his leadership as president of Square-N-Compass and as Grand Master for The State of Arizona Prince Hall Masons these two organizations have raised more than $2 million in academic and trade scholarships and grants.

Tim has provided needs for children and families of the Arizona’s communities for the past 18 years, especially during Thanksgiving and Christmas. He mentors youths through Masonic and annual scholarship programs, run a voters registration and rights restorations programs. im does outreach community work with organizations such as, CASS, Roosevelt Early Childhood Family Resource Center, Roosevelt School District and several youth programs throughout the Valley. He also teaches business and health awareness classes for the community.

For leisure, Tim enjoys reading, ballroom dancing, antique cars, sports and traveling.

TIM SEAY

Elizabeth J. White never planned or envisioned becoming a business trailblazer or icon. The rise was not quick by any means.

A deeply religious individual, White related having heard a voice telling her to go to El Paso.

She lingered on if the plan to move her young family from her Texas roots to the Grand Canyon State was going to pan out. She had accepted an invitation from her brother – the late Bishop Floyd Jimmerson – to come out to Arizona and assist him with a “thriving business.”

She believed, with four young children, the sure thing was to go west. She wondered what life would have been like had she heeded the voice. Many now are thankful she chose Arizona and turned the barely surviving business into one of the most renowned eateries in the Southwest.

During her many years in business, she has provided opportunities for a number of individuals to learn the business and to become self-sufficient in their own regard.

In October 2023, Mrs. White became the first African-American woman inducted into the History Makers Hall of Fame, a program sponsored biannually by the Arizona Historical Society. She joins an impressive list of Phoenix trailblazers including: Cloves Campbell, Sr.; Dr. Eugene Grigsby; Dr. Warren H. Stewart Sr.; Eddie Basha; and the Hon. Calvin C. Goode. Her induction class included former Phoenix Mayor Terry Goddard and other notables.

Mrs. White was among the leaders in desegregating dining facilities in Phoenix during the mid 1960s. The Golden Rule Café, located at 1029 E. Jefferson Street at the time, lived up to its name by welcoming all to enjoy good food at reasonable prices. In 1976, Ms. White pioneered smokeless dining in Phoenix and the Southwest – a decision met with harsh resentment, threats the business would close and more; however, Ms. White trusted and preserved. She had lost two sisters to cancer, one from smoking; the smell of cigarette smoke always bothered her.

Many civil rights conversations and meetings took place at Golden Rule Café in the ‘60s and early ‘80s. Besides local clergy that included Dr. George Brooks, Dr. Bernard Black and Bishop Henry Barnwell, national figures such as Rev. Jesse Jackson and Rev. Al Sharpton have visited the Café. As Phoenix sports and entertainment grew, many star athletes and artists found their way to The Golden Rule: NBA legends Connie Hawkins, Garfield Heard, Alvin Adams, the Van Arsdales, Walter Davis, Charles Barkley and Shaquille O’Neal and NFL legend Deion Sanders.

Mrs. White has been fully aided by her son Larry, Sr., who played a significant role in the business from the beginning. He has turned over the day-to-day operation to his daughter, Kianna. Many also have dined at his son’s multiple establishments Lolo’s Chicken & Waffles. Success breeds success. Mrs. White’s success lies in the simple phrase: “Good food is not cheap, and cheap food is not good.” She states, “We serve good food at reasonable prices. We will not serve anything to you that we would not eat ourselves… we’ve fed generations!”

CULINARY LEADERSHIP AWARD

Community Awards

ELIZABETH J. WHITE

PRESIDENT’S AWARD

Community Awards Alan “AP” Powell is a dynamic individual, boasting a rich tapestry of roles as a serial entrepreneur, Gulf War veteran, philanthropist and strategic consultant specializing in fostering relationships for Fortune 500 companies. Currently at the helm of AP & Associates, LLC, a company he founded in 2004, Powell showcases his expertise in strategic consulting as chair and CEO. In addition to his corporate leadership, Powell is the visionary founder of Herozona Foundation, a nonprofit founded in 2011 dedicated to empowering community heroes through initiatives in entrepreneurship, employment and education. He started with hosting the Herozona National Veteran Summit in support of veterans and veteran-owned businesses.

His professional journey spans successful collaborations with prominent companies like: ISC; Diageo; Harley-Davidson; Coca-Cola; University of Phoenix; and Miller-Coors. His expansive network has facilitated partnerships with notable figures, connecting clients with celebrities like: Tyrese Gibson; Boris Kodjoe; Bill Bellamy; Daymond John; Evander Holyfield; and Floyd Mayweather Jr. Transitioning from the military, Powell ventured into the independent film and music business, ultimately attaining the position of vice president of business development at The Firm in Beverly Hills. There, he played a pivotal role in major music collaborations and served as a co-executive producer for movie soundtracks. Taking on the role of managing director at Paddington Brands, LLC in 2011, Powell contributed to the promotion of various brands, including 3 Amigos Tequila, and played a role in the relaunch of PONY Shoes.

In the nonprofit sector, Powell’s impact is evident through collaborations with Nielsen on the first-ever report on U.S. veteran consumers and partnerships with Arizona Corporate Council on Veteran Careers for the CyberVets USA training program. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Powell launched the largest testing site in the U.S. and initiated the One Community Initiative, orchestrating more than 500 vaccination events. His leadership during the pandemic was highlighted

by Good Morning America, and he continues to innovate, recently contributing to the launch of the Blue Zones initiative in south Phoenix.

Powell’s dedication to community welfare has earned him numerous accolades, including: the Scottsdale Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebration Champion Award; Arizona Black Chamber of Commerce Corporate Star Award; Veteran Champion Advocacy Award (2022); Arizona MLK Living The Dream Award (2017).

Actively involved in various boards and advisory councils, Powell serves on the TGEN Foundation board and has lent his expertise to organizations such as: Arizona 7th District Congressman Ruben Gallego’s Veterans Advisory Council; University of Phoenix Criminal Justice Industry Advisory Board; City of Phoenix Aviation Advisory Board; and City of Phoenix African-American Advisory Council (District 8).

ALAN “AP” POWELL

DEFENDER OF DEMOCRACY AWARD

Community Awards Russell “Rusty” Bowers, a fourth-generation Arizonan who grew up on a sheep ranch in Chino Valley, is an American politician and former Speaker of the Arizona House of Representatives. The member of the Republican Party represented the 25th legislative district from 2015 to 2023 and was elected Speaker in 2019. He previously represented the 21st legislative district in the Arizona House from 1993 to 1997 and in the Arizona Senate from 1997 to 2001.

He attended Mesa Community College, Arizona State University and Brigham Young University. He is a classically trained artist specializing in watercolor, oil painting, and sculpting, and he also has been involved in the construction and education industries. A member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints, he spent two years as a Mormon missionary in Mexico.

Following the 2020 presidential election, Bowers – despite being a strong Republican along party lines, – refused to cooperate with President Trump, Rudy Giuliani, and their unconstitutional attempts to overturn the 2020 presidential election in Arizona. “As a conservative Republican, I don’t like the results of the presidential election,” Bowers said. “I voted for President Trump and worked hard to reelect him.

But I cannot and will not entertain a suggestion that we violate current law to change the outcome of a certified election.”

Bowers publicly stated that there was no evidence whatsoever of election fraud that would otherwise mandate rejection of the results of the 2020 United States presidential election in Arizona. On June 21, 2022, Bowers testified before the House January 6 committee. As part of his testimony, Bowers stated that when he asked Rudy Giuliani for evidence regarding election fraud claims, Giuliani responded, “We have lots of theories, we just don't have the evidence.”

For his decision of conscience, Bowers endured persistent harassment and intimidation tactics from Trump supporters, and later survived an attempt to recall him from the legislature. In January 2022, Bowers again acted to protect the integrity of Arizona elections by stopping a Republican-sponsored bill that would have allowed the legislature to overturn the results of an election. In December 2020, colleague Senator Kelly Townsend wanted Bowers to call the legislature into session and appoint an alternate slate of electors. When he refused, Townsend doxed Bowers on Twitter, revealing his home address, and urged her militia followers to protest at his home. He remains a target for pro-Trump partisans.

For his efforts in resisting the attempts to overturn the 2020 election results, Bowers was awarded the John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award. He was one of five honorees to receive the award in 2022. Nevertheless, on July 19, 2022, the Arizona Republican Party censured Bowers for his resistance.

In 2022, Bowers ran for the State Senate, as he was being termed out from the State House. He lost the Republican primary for the State Senate by a nearly two-to-one margin, with the loss being attributed to his resistance to overturning the 2020 presidential election. In spite of the loss, Bowers said he had no regrets about his resistance and “would [have done] it again in a heartbeat.”

RUSTY BOWERS

LIFETIME EDUCATION ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Community Awards Dr. Gene Parrish was born in abject poverty in Tulsa, Oklahoma, with 12 brothers and sisters. Their loving mother and father stayed married through sickness and health until their deaths. A 19-year-old Parrish came to Arizona in 1967 to attend Arizona State University on an athletic wrestling scholarship. His athletic career included a national championship and numerous other regional championships.

Parrish completed his master’s from ASU and was hired at Mesa Community College in 1971.

He immediately started to create new programs for minorities and women students aimed at them graduating from college. Other initiatives were: the first handicapped student center; Free Academic Tutoring,; the first Independent Academic Advisement Center; Multicultural Services Center; Women’s Re-Entry to College Center (co-creator) and Health Improvement Center/ Fitness Center (co-creator); Educational Development Training Center; and for welfare and unemployed mothers.

Parrish resigned from Mesa College in 1979 and moved to Washington D.C. He worked for A.L Nellum and Associates as an administrator where he was a team trainer of senior level (GS 16-18) CIA agents in Langley, Virginia. He trained on how to work successfully with minorities and women. The Department of Energy in Washington D.C, where he directed the first National Conference for Minorities focused on solar energy. He also worked as a team member on the 1980 Ronald Reagan Presidential Transition Team. Parrish returned to Arizona to receive his Ph.D. from ASU in 1981.

Dr. Parrish returned to Mesa Community College, where he resumed work creating programs for minorities and women. He has made a positive impact on more than 50,000 poor, minority, and women students in Arizona education over the past six decades. Dr. Parrish retired from Mesa Community College after 41 years as a faculty emeritus.

DR. GENE PARRISH

TOURÉ MASTERS

Chanette Campbell was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona. She attended Arizona State University with a major in nonprofit management. She has been consistently involved with NAACP since age 9. She was elected president of the NAACP Maricopa County Youth Council in 2006, and served for eight years. She was elected to the NAACP National Youth Works Committee Board. She also is an active member of Junior State of America.

As a youth leader, she has worked extensively on youth development and participation and played a key role in transforming the Youth Council division in Maricopa County. Her devoted years to the NAACP led to several national conferences where she served twice as the youth chair for Region 1 Youth & College Division. With a strong urge to serve her community, Campbell currently works with: Arizona Informant Newspaper as community engagement director; Black Rodeo USA as assistant coordinator; and Valley of the Sun United Way as a scholarships specialist.

The NAACP is in the DNA of Campbell as her parents, Lanette and Cloves Campbell Jr., served as youth president and youth advisor and are both life members. Her grandfather Cloves C. Campbell Sr., served as president of the NAACP Arizona State Conference and Maricopa County Branch in the 1970s and 1980s. She is the proud mother of three children: Solana; True; and Trill – all of whom are NAACP Youth Council members.

Phoenix native Touré Masters was born February 11, 1991 is a rap artist and community activist. The Phoenix Community College graduate (with a degree in fashion merchandising and marketing) served as the campus’ Black Student Union president. The BSU also was an NAACP College Chapter. He went on to serve a number of terms as chair the NAACP Region 1 Youth & College Division. Currently, he holds a board position on the executive committee for the NAACP Maricopa County Branch. He has received awards for his NAACP work.

Masters has built a great music career that reaches nationwide and beyond. He has been recognized as Emerging Artist of the Year (Southwest Urban Music Awards) and Community Activist of the Year (Black Icon Awards).

“RéRé” and “Sharks” are two impactful bodies of work dropped this year – the 50th anniversary of Hiphop.

Previous work includes: Community Restoration In Progress and Granny’s Prayers. He plans to continue creating music and being involved in his community.

Masters discusses issues such as suicide, drugs, violence, absent fathers and struggles of single mothers. “As a Black artist I feel it is my responsibility to speak on my people in powerful and uplifting ways. At the same time being honest about our history and the struggles we experience daily.”

CHANETTE CAMPBELL

Gen X Awards

Corporate Awards

CORPORATE AWARD Arizona Public Service generates reliable, affordable and clean energy for approximately 1.4 million customers in Arizona. Its service territory stretches across the state – from the border town of Douglas to the vistas of the Grand Canyon, from the solar fields of Gila Bend to the ponderosa pines of Payson. As the state’s largest and longest-serving energy provider, nearly 6,000 dedicated employees power the vision of creating a sustainable energy future for Arizona.

Powering Arizona is one thing. But empowering Arizona communities with possibility is another. APS believes in doing more for the communities it serves than providing energy. Along with more than 120,000 hours volunteered by employees, APS partners with worthy community organizations and programs dedicated to improving the lives of Arizonans. The company contributes more than $10 million to charitable causes.“Whether it’s helping those in need, supporting those who aid others or protecting the environment, we have an opportunity each day to make Arizona a better place – a place we call home.”

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AWARD Salt River Project, or SRP, is a community-based, not-for-profit organization providing affordable water and power to more than 2 million people in central Arizona.

Providing these essential resources for more than a century, SRP has helped the Phoenix metropolitan area develop and thrive. Its guiding principles have remained the same since its founding – to act in the best interest of the people we serve and strive to help build a better future for Arizona. SRP believes in building a better Arizona one innovative step at a time. SRP strives to reflect the communities in which we live and work “Diversity helps make our communities and businesses stronger – that's why we put it at the heart of everything we do.” SRP builds strong relationships with our customers, employees and community members through meaningful engagement.

SPONSORS & SUPPORTERS

American Income Life Insurance

ACAAR

Jeremiah Holdings Lincoln Ragsdale Jr.

Native Action Programs Dr. Dwayne McIntosh

Arizona Cardinals

Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church

Arizona Informant Newspaper

King Solomon Lodge #14

Arizona OIC

Maricopa Community Colleges Foundation

Pastor Darrell Grissum Lily of the Valley Church of Godin Christ

Berry Realty Bethesda Community Baptist Church

Maricopa County Attorney’s Office

City of Phoenix Municipal Courts

Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Arizona

City of Phoenix Police Department

Mrs .White’s Golden Rule Cafe

City of Tempe Police Department

NAACP East Valley Branch

CPLC

NAACP Flagstaff Branch

Donald Harris Esq.

NAACP Maricopa County Branch

Ebony House

NAACP Pinal County

Equality Health Foundation

NAACP Sierra Vista Branch

First Institutional Baptist Church

NAACP Tucson Branch

First New life Baptist Church

NAACP West Valley Branch

George Gervin Prepartory Academy

NAACP Yuma Branch

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport Preston Funeral Home Robert McWhirter Esq. Robert Warrick South Phoenix Missionary Baptist Church Rev. Oscar Tillman Tanner Chapel AME Church The Art Hamilton Group Universal South Mountain Mortuary William H. Patterson Elks Lodge #477 William Smitherman

Mr. Charles Fanniel, we applaud a job well done! Congratulations!

VONORTHPHOENIXCHURCH@GMAIL.COM

Pastor Steven and Regina Acuna

Victory Outreach is an international, church-oriented Christian ministry called to the task of evangelizing and discipling the hurting people of the world, with the message of hope and plan of Jesus Christ. This call involves a commitment to plant and develop churches and training centers, in strategic cities of the world. Victory Outreach inspires and instills within people the desire to fulfill their potential in life with a sense of dignity, belonging, and destiny. Victory Outreach works cooperatively with others of mutual purpose in accomplishing the task before us Victory Recovery Home Change Begins When You Believe Statistically, there are over 300 live-in recovery homes in the U.S. and around the world. There are as many as 10,000 residents (men and women) in these recovery homes at one time. Their lodging, food, and clothing is provided at no charge. These Victory Homes go into some of the most drug infested areas of the inner cities and reaches out to men and women who are helplessly addicted to heroin, meth and other drugs. Such effectiveness comes from the fact that majority of people providing assistance are former addicts and gang members who at one time found themselves trapped in the same cycle of addiction.

Third Wave Ministry | Jr High, High School, Young Adults Is a ministry tailored to the unique needs and challenges of young people. With a team of leaders who love and understand them, these young people are getting to know God at their own pace and at their own level. Every week they meet for a powerful time of worship, fun and God's Word.

• A Family Church •

We, the Members of the Arizona Prince Hall Masonic Family, thank you, Brother Charles Fanniel!

Congratulations on 42 years of service to the NAACP Organization for Arizona.

Thank you for being a committed servant to the underprivileged people, community, churches, youth and more than 50 years of services to the Masonic order.

h

South Phoenix Missionary Baptist Church

Rev. Shauncey D. Hatten, Sr. Pastor

Congratulations Deacon Chairman Charles Fanniel Congratulations for 11 years of Service as State President, and a total of 42 years of Volunteer Advocacy – Civil Rights and Social Justice work in Arizona. We appreciate all you have done within the community and within our church.

From your

South Phoenix Missionary Baptist Church Family

2006 East Broadway Road, Phoenix, AZ 85040

Elenor Dickey and Dr. Lincoln Ragsdale Sr.

Thank you, Charles Fanniel for standing up for justice in our community for so

Rev. Benjamin Brooks & Dr. Lincoln Ragsdale Sr.

Dr. Lincoln Ragsdale Sr. Organizing Marchers

Thank you, Charles Fanniel, for standing up for justice in our community Thank you, Charles Fanniel for your years of service. for so many years. Service well done. r s sr r s r r ss. r r D s “If there is not struggle, there is no progress.” – Frederick Douglass RagsdaleFamily Family• •-The The Ragsdale

Thank You So Much To NAACP Arizona State Conference & Mr. Charles Fanniel!

Lucy F. Mackey, First Lady

Thank you, Charles Fanniel, for all you have done for the state of Arizona.

You serve as a great example for me and others of commitment to the community.

Wishing you all the best in your future endeavors, as I know you will forever fight for justice.

Congratula!ons, President Charles Fanniel,

for "e leadership you have provided # Arizona NAACP.

We, "e members of your family, are so very proud of you.

We, "erefore, commend you for your work # con!nue "e

pursuit of liber$ in "e face of injus!ce. Please know "at

you and "e NAACP have our love, support and prayers!

For every 3 cigarettes Mommy smokes, I smoke 1!

Congratulations NAACP Arizona State Conference!

Cynthia Smitherman, Author American Lung Certified Instructor Since 1996

The tobacco industry spends millions of dollars to sell products known to cause disabilities and cancers. Their target market is African Americans and nearly 90% of African Americans smoke menthol cigarettes. In 2020, more than 39,000 African Americans have perished from smoking cigarettes. You can be smoke-free in just 3 days.

Call today! 602-697-4487 thruwithsmoking.com

THANK YOU TO THE MR & MRS CHARLES& LUCILLE FANNIEL WE KNOW YOU WILL KEEP YOUR BOOTS ON INJUSTICE & YOUR SPURS GROUNDED IN THE COMMUNITY!

Who We Are: New Millennium Founda/on 2020 was founded and created by Mr. Charles and Dr. Lucille Fanniel. Our goal is to encourage earnest effort, so students gain the confidence and skills they need to thrive as adults to become successful individuals.

Join us: Our program focuses on the dedica/on and commitment of community volunteers and business leaders serving as mentors and coaches to promote high academic and cultural achievement and ar/s/c excellence among African-American 8th through 12th grade students in our communi/es.

Why we’re doing it: With the ongoing aLacks on the educa/on systems across the country, one of our strategic objec/ves is to be a resource to our youth in helping them iden/fy, plan, prepare, and realize their long-term career goals. We also will be working with them to provide tutoring, career and educa/on sessions, and tools to help them plan and track progress towards their goals.

How you can get involved: Join us and become a Mentor to be matched to students with interests in your professional area to provide real-life exposure in their career interest. This can consist of not only 1-on-1 mentoring but may include providing access to the work environment, on site tours, providing internships, exposure to professional organiza/ons and affilia/ons, whatever support that can be provided to allow the student to be fully immersed in the field.

This will give them hands-on experience and learn from the inside what is needed to prepare and exceed in the field.

Learn more today!

Papa…

It is with great gratitude & admiration that I take a moment to congratulate you on your years of service – 41 years!

Over the years I have watched you work effortlessly as an activist. Often times, sacrificing yourself and time to extend support and guidance to our community. Supporting individuals in the court room, assisting in negotiations or sometimes just providing a listening ear.

You never wavered; your resilience is to be commended. You are a true man of God, and community leader. An outstanding example of what an activist does and is.

I am happy to be able to say you are MY Grandfather. We love you and we appreciate you. God Bless.

Wishing you another great year of serving Arizona as you fight for justice for all!

I bring you GREETINGS from the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Arizona, its jurisdiction, corporation AND foundation. I’d like to congratulate the State President, Charles Fanniel, for 42 years of service at the NAACP Organization. Continue all the great work you do for our communities.

Grand Master Dr. Timothy R. Seay, Sr., 33º

Acknowledgments

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State Branch! & Chapters Pinal County Constance Jackson, President PO Box 837 Maricopa 85139 909-437-8915 naacappinalco@gmail.com

PO Box 20605 Phoenix AZ 85036

Flagstaff Rev. Cemie Clayton, President PO Box 31263 Flagstaff 86003 928-856-2797

Charles Fanniel, President Constance Jackson, 1st Vice Bishop Anthony Holt, 2nd Vice Andre Miller, 3rd Vice Dr. Sherrie Covington, Treasurer Lanette Campbell, Secretary

Greater Huachuca Area Stephanie Walls, President PO Box 477 Sierra Vista 85636 520-249-3113 naacpsierravista@gmail.com

BRANCHES

Tucson Cheree Meeks, President PO Box 50894 Tucson 85703 TucsonNAACP.org

EXECUTIVE OFFICE #1007

Maricopa County Dr. Karen Hardin, President PO Box 20883 Phoenix 85036 602-252-4064 East Valley Kiana M. Sears, President PO Box 5024 Mesa 85211 480-464-1808 evnaacp@gmail.com West Valley Bishop Anthony Holt, President 401 W. Western Avenue Avondale 85323 623-428-0429 Colorado River Arizona Pastor Darrell Grissum, President PO Box 856 Parker 85344 480-286-1281

Winslow Brenda Hayes-Graham, President PO Box1239 Winslow 86047 928-386-2352 @NAACPWinslowAZ

YOUTH & COLLEGE CHAPTERS Darnell Hill State Advisor

YOUTH COUNCILS Maricopa County Tucson Sierra Vista East Valley West Valley Pinal County

COLLEGE CHAPTERS South Mountain Community College Estrella Mountain Community College Mesa Community College Phoenix College

Yuma Eleanor Sayles, President PO Box 1563 Yuma 85366 928-581-7954 @YumaNAACP

ARIZONA ACT-SO D. L. White State Coordinator

Preston Funeral Home 3800 S. Central Ave. Phoenix, AZ 85040 602.304. 0083

Congratulations Bro. Charles Fanniel on 42 years of dedicated service!!!

Family Owned & Operated • Three Generations

Mackenzie Willis

Irene Preston

Devin Willis