RobertB. Tapley At-Large Director of Administration & Data
James Duke At-Large Director of Operations
Kevin A. Gooch,Esq. General Counsel
Albert E. Dotson, Jr. Chairman Emeritus
Curley M. Dossman, Jr. ChairmanEmeritus
Jesse C. Swanigan TreasurerEmeritus
James“Mac” Hunter, Esq. General Counsel Emeritus
Dr. Charles J. Gibbs Chief Executive Officer
Lee Coles Atlantic District Director
Thomas B. Henderson Central District Director
Stanley L. Savage Georgia District Director
Kenneth Robinson, Jr. Midsouth District Director
Andre Givens
Midwest District Director
Aldrin Enis
Northeast District Director
Dr. Charles Smith
South Central District Director
Charles Griggs
SoutheastDistrict Director
Charles Hyder, Jr.
Southern District Director
Gentry Richardson
Western District Director
The Thomas W. Dortch, Jr. Center
141 Auburn Avenue, NE Atlanta, Georgia 30303
Phone | (404) 688-5100 www.100blackmen.org
December 1, 2023
December 13, 2024
Greetings!
In celebration of the 100 Black Men of Greater Columbia, Inc’s., 22nd Annual "Evening of Elegance" Black Tie Gala., we embrace your theme, "SALUTING THE PAST, CELEBRATING THE PRESENT, SECURING THE FUTURE."
As the Chairman of this great organization and a member since 1997 I have gladly answered yes when asked to carry out several tasks over the years. As a chapter, you have also demonstrated your willingness to answer the call to action that you receive with a resounding “YES”. I am very pleased and proud to see the great work our committed members and stakeholders are doing in Greater Columbia. You are making a critical difference in the key areas of Mentoring, Education, Health and Wellness, Economic Empowerment, and Leadership Development.
Your accomplishments this year clearly demonstrate that you are “Real Men giving Real Time”. You work hard every day to embody the tremendous responsibility, especially for our mentees, to ensure that "WHAT THEY SEE IS WHAT THEY'LL BE." As you have shown, this is more than our signature slogan; it has been copyrighted to the 100 Black Men of America, Inc.
On behalf of the Board of Directors and the thousands of youth we serve, I thank each member of the chapter for your dedication to this community. Your individual and collective accomplishments inspire our mentees to always pursue excellence. We wish you continued success and look forward to many more years of excellent service as you serve the greater Columbia Community.
Once again, enjoy this “Evening of Elegance” and continue to provide and promote Empowerment, Leadership, Education, Voting, Advocacy Training, and Engagement as we ELEVATE to higher heights!
With warmest regards,
Milton H. Jones Jr. Chairman
100 Black Men of America, Inc.
Greetings,
On behalf of the City of Columbia, we extend our sincere congratulations to the 100 Black Men of Greater Columbia as you celebrate your Holiday gala. With your leadership, your mission theme ''What They See is What They'll Be'', is a direct reflection of the impact your organization has had in our community.
With many years of service and commitment to Columbia and the surrounding areas, your contributions have truly made an impact in our community and the benefits will be felt for future generations. The City of Columbia is truly grateful to have such visionary leaders and dedicated individuals who are consistently focused on enhancing quality of life and educational opportunities to youth in need.
Through scholarships, community programs and public service initiatives, you are bestowing your best efforts for the purpose of empowering others. Please accept our thanks for all that you do and also our commendation for a job well done. We wish you the best in your continuing mission to transform lives and impact communities.
Greetings,
On behalf of Richland County School District One, welcome to the 100 Black Men of Greater Columbia’s 23rd annual Evening of Elegance Black-Tie Gala.
It is also with great honor and joy that I extend our heartfelt congratulations to the 100 Black Men of Greater Columbia on the momentous occasion of the organization’s 25th anniversary. This milestone is not only a testament to your enduring commitment to the community but also a celebration of the profound impact you have made in the lives of countless individuals, particularly our young African-American males
The 100 Black Men of Greater Columbia’s mission to improve the quality of life and enhance educational opportunities for AfricanAmericans aligns seamlessly with the mission and core values of our school district Over the past quarter of a century, your unwavering dedication has played a pivotal role in shaping the futures of many students within our schools. Your four pillars of success – mentoring, education, health and wellness, and economic empowerment – have been the cornerstones of your exemplary service.
The longtime partnership between Richland One and the 100 Black Men of Greater Columbia has been a source of pride and progress. Together, we have worked tirelessly to create an environment that nurtures talent, celebrates diversity and champions equity. As we look to the future, we are excited to continue our collaboration and explore new avenues to enhance the educational experiences of our students
With warm regards,
Craig Witherspoon, Ed.D. Superintendent Richland County School District One
Good Evening Gala guests, welcome and thank you for your presence. Tonight we gather not only to share a delicious meal but to celebrate the power of unity, mentorship, and community. Your presence here is a testament to the importance of our shared goals. Together, we can make a significant impact on the lives of those we serve, and we're honored to have you join us in this endeavor.
The 100 Black Men of Greater Columbia has a misson that is steeped in providing education, motivation and inspiration to the citizens of our community, with a special emphasis on our youth, and more specifically on our young African American males.
I am pleased to partner with this great organization that has five very important pillars of success: mentoring; education; health and wellness; economic empowerment; and leadership development. These pillars align nicely with our district’s core values of belonging, learning, continuous improvement and joy. Richland Two has students engaged with these gentlemen from both Kelly Mill Middle School and Richland Northeast High School I know that the support they will provide our students will only serve to assist these young people in walking closer to their purpose and towards realizing all of the wonderful opportunities that await them.
Let's make this Gala a time for inspiration, connection, and renewed dedication to this vital mission. Thank you for being part of this special event, and we look forward to the great conversations and experiences that await us tonight.
Kim D. Moore, Ed.D. Superintendent
Kim D. Moore, Ed.D. Superintendent superintendent@richland2.org
On behalf of the Richland County Council, it is my honor and privilege to welcome you to the 2024 Columbia Chapter of 100 Black Men’s Gala. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to your organization as you celebrate an incredible milestone: 25 years of dedicated service to the community.
Your unwavering commitment to mentoring young individuals and fostering future leaders aligns perfectly with our shared vision for a thriving and inclusive community. The impactful programs implemented by 100 Black Men of Greater Columbia over the years, addressing specific community needs, demonstrate a commendable dedication to continuous improvement.
Your focus on surrounding mentees with a positive network and providing transformative opportunities reflects a profound commitment to shaping the future of our community that we deeply appreciate. The emphasis on education, coupled with tools for self-sufficiency, showcases a laudable effort to cultivate civic and business leadership among our youth.
As Chair of Richland County, and on behalf of the Richland County Council, I am proud to acknowledge and celebrate the outstanding work of 100 Black Men of Greater Columbia. Congratulations on this remarkable 25-year journey, and we extend our best wishes for the continued prosperity of your organization. May your impact on the lives of our youth continue to flourish.
With warmest regards,
Jesica Mackey, Chair
Richland County Council District 9
Committees:
- Counties
- Richland County Delegation
- Recreation Commission - Edventure Children’s Museum
- School District Two
- Economic Development and Industrial Park -Internal Audit
- Transportation Ad Hoc Committee -Intern Ad Hoc Committee
- Strategic Planning Ad Hoc
- Columbia Museum of Art
- Council Office Overview Ad Hoc
- Community Impact Grants Ad Hoc Committee - I-77 Alliance
History of the 100 Black Men of Greater Columbia, Inc.
The overall concept of the 100 began in New York in 1963 when a group of concerned African American men began to meet to explore ways of improving conditions in their community. The group eventually adopted the name “100 Black Men, Inc.” as a sign of solidarity. These men envisioned an organization that would implement programs designed to improve the quality of life for African Americans and other minorities. The also wished to ensure the future of their communities by aiming an intense number of resources towards youth development. These members were successful black men from various walks of life.
In January 1999, the 100 Black Men of South Carolina (100BMOSC), who was established as a fundraising arm of the United Black Fund of the Midlands, met to discuss separating from the United Black Fund. Some members of the 100BMOSC expressed a desire to become a chapter under the 100 Black Men of America, Inc., citing the organization’s mission to empower youth in the areas of Mentoring, Education, Health and Wellness, and Economic Development was directly in line with the chapter’s mission. After many discussions, the decision was made to separate from the United Black Fund and become a chapter of the 100 Black Men of America, Inc.
A volunteer group led by Mr. Clente Flemming, Mr. Charles W. Blakely, Mr. Charles B. Gary, and Ms. Cynthia E. Tucker was charged with developing the chapter’s bylaws, completing the application from 100 National, filing for tax-exempt status (501(c) (3)) with the IRS, and establishing an office. Upon recommendation from the 100 National, the chapter’s name was changed from the 100 Black Men of South Carolina to the 100 Black Men of Greater Columbia, Inc., as other chapters were also able being organized in South Carolina.
In the summer of 1999, the 100 Black Men of Greater Columbia, Inc. (100BMOGC) was chartered as a new chapter at the National Convention of the 100 Black Men of America, Inc. Our first Board of Directors included: Mr. Vince Ford, President; Mr. Charles Gary, Vice President; Mr. Charles Blakely, Secretary; Mr. Clente Flemming, Treasurer; Mr. Melvin Miller, Board Member; and Mr. Howard Armstrong, Board Member. Additionally, Mr. Charles Blakely served as the Executive Director and Ms. Cynthia E. Tucker as the Office Manager. The first office was housed within The Flemming Group, Inc.
The 100BMOGC has twice received recognition by the 100 Black Men of America, Inc. as the National Small Chapter of the Year, and once as the Medium Chapter. Under the leadership of Mr. Clente Flemming and Ms. Tucker, Vice-President of The Flemming Group, Inc., the chapter participated in the State Farm Dollars and Cents Grant Program for several years. Student participants from Richland County School District One’s Eau Claire High School competed during the National Convention Competitions for four consecutive years, and in 2012 the students placed 2nd out of nineteen chapters during the National Convention in Atlanta, Georgia.
Today, the 100 Black Men of Greater Columbia, Inc. members continue to strive to improve the quality of life in our communities, and to enhance the educational and economic opportunities for African Americans. Annually, more than 350 youth participate in the chapter’s Satur-day Leadership Academy, Lunch Buddies, and DJJ Lunch Connection programs, and these programs have had a ripple effect on thousands more. Additionally, the 100BMOGC has awarded more than $125,000 in scholarships to graduating high school students.
With a mission to improve the quality and enhance educational opportunities for African Americans, members of the 100BMOGC continue to serve as a strong force in the world by overcoming the cultural and financial obstacles that have limited the achievements of some African Americans, particularly young African American males. Members of the 100BMOGC have made outstanding progress, proving that Blacks can and do, excel as corporate leaders, community leaders, and independent business owners.
100 Black Men of Greater Columbia, Inc.
Officers
Keith Melvin President
Jamie L. Devine Vice President
Steve Wilson Secretary
Brian Gaines Treasurer
Daniel Johnson Financial Secretary
Craig Witherspoon Parliamentarian
Kristopher Jones Chaplain
Ivan Earle Historian
Board Members
Lee Coles
Ronald Epps
Paul Livingston
Troy Sheppard
Leon Geter
Tim Dye
Honorary Members
Charles W. Blakely
Solomon Jackson
Selby Artis
Stephen Benjamin
Charles Marshall, III
Heyward Bannister
Curtis Bates
Ralph Bailey
Patrick Barber
George Bowman
Norman Caldwell
Thomas Clark
Tyrone Corbin
Porter Curry
Baron Davis
Edward Davis
Charles Gary
Vince Gatling
Bernard Graham
MEMBERS
Hamilton Grant
William Anthony Jackson
Charles B. Jackson, Sr.
Charles B. Jackson, Jr.
Deon Jackson
Dallas Jordan
Patrick Lowery
Ronald Parrett
Perlandus Hughes
Percy Mack
Russell Dean
Hamilton Jacobs
Calvin Lyles
Tori Toland
Samuel Mokeba
Eleanya Oggbur-Ogbonnaya
Ricky Ragins
Rodney Reid
Dana Risi
Tony Robinson
Antjuan Seawright
Troy Sheppard
Wardell Simmons
Jerome Singleton
Carl Solomon
Carl Thurmond
Kelvin Washington
Terrance Wells
Tony White
Melvin Malone, Jr.
Christopher Vaughn
Muhammad Salam
Glennell Smith
Cedric Wright
Four For the Future Program Successes
Mentoring
• Saturday Leadership Academy is a lifelong mentoring and character development intervention program, followed by a lifelong Citizenship mentoring program designed to motivate young men of middle and high school age to achieve a higher level of success in school and as citizens.
• Lunch Buddy Program, in collaboration with local school districts, links adult African American men with elementary to high school students who may not have a male role model in their lives. At each 1.5-hour session, a relevant topic is discussed that will hopefully help the mentees in their daily lives.
• DJJ Lunch Connection. Started in 2004, this initiative mirrors the Lunch Buddy Program; however, monthly sessions are held at the Stevenson Correctional Facility of the SC Department of Juvenile Justice. Since its inception, it has been reported that there has been a 40% decrease in disciplinary actions.
EDUCATION
• Scholarship Awards. The 100 provides annual scholarship awards to deserving matriculating students who will be full-time students at accredited, post-secondary institutions based on the 100’s eligibility criteria. Scholarship dollars assist youth in completing educational goals by providing resources to offset expenses associated with tuition, books and housing. Each year five (5) graduating high school seniors will receive an award in the amount of $2,000 that will be disbursed over a fouryear period, provided the student maintains a minimum 2.5 GPA.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
• Blood Drives and Health Fairs/Screenings. Healthcare initiatives are provided to citizens through a number of programs in collaboration with the following:
• Harambee Festival - This collaboration with Benedict College has provided over 100 prostate, diabetes, and blood pressure screenings during the annual Harambee Festival celebration which is held on the last Saturday in February annually.
• Black Expo (Columbia) - Over 50 diabetes and blood pressure screenings are performed during this annual event which is held on the third Saturday in May annually.
• Palmetto Health Education Sessions are held throughout the year, and are designed to educate African American males on prostate cancer and obesity.
Economic Empowerment
• Financial Literary Programs. The mission of these programs is to strengthen the African American community through economic education, workshops and training. Programs are designed to encourage and empower the African American community to become financial literate and economically self-sufficient, through the development and facilitation of initiatives which address the educational and technical needs of youth and the broader community.
Ms. TRE’ TAILOR
Award-Winning Broadcast Professional Mistress of Ceremonies
Tre’ Tailor is an award-winning Broadcast professional who has worked nationally for the Tom Joyner Morning Show and heard on ad campaigns like Ford Motors, Harrah’s Cassinos, Piggly Wiggly and more! The former All-State Vocalist, has recorded with Gospel Legend John P. Kee and performed in Washington, DC at President Obama’s first Inaugural Ball with the late Jazz Great Skip Pearson.
Her Public Relations/Marketing/Event Planning group TailorMade Productions has spearheaded successful publicity campaigns for companies including the SC Employment Security Commission, the Commission for Minority Affairs, the SC Legislative Black Caucus and has been the creative force behind events and concerts including the 4 City/2 State Black Expo Tour, The Auntie Karen Foundation Legends of Concert Series, Women’s Empowerment and several national and local political campaigns.
During the Pandemic, Tre launched a groundbreaking podcast; Coping with COVID, that provided information, updates and access to local, state and national leaders who responded directly to the community’s questions and concerns. The SC DHEC sponsored Wellness Wednesday segment was recognized by the CDC for innovative marketing and the show also received the Telly and Communications Award.
Tre’ is active in her church and community and generously volunteers her time and resources to activities and causes involving children, senior citizens, singles and women’s empowerment. She recently accepted the personal invitation from her Pastor, Rev. Charles Jackson to join the team at the Brookland Banquet and Conference Center as director of Sales and Marketing.
The mother of one adult son, Tre’ was unexpectedly blessed with the opportunity to raise two little ones who call her TUTU. Tre is humbled and honored that God trusts her with this monumental task and prays daily for the wisdom, strength and resources to do HIS will! Having these beautiful babies has motivated Tre’ to become involved in several boards and committees to share perspective, give voice and advocate for families like hers, involved in Kinship Care. She was recently awarded the Kinship Ambassador Award from Kindred Hearts for her commitment to amplifying the message!
Tre’ loves life and lives it to the fullest with the motivation from Romans 8:31, “If God be for you, who can be against you!
Thank You To our CorporaTe & CommuniTY parTners
Gold Sponsors
Dominion Energy
GFL Environmental
Blue Cross/ Blue Shield
Prisma Health
Westnghouse
Silver Sponsors
Oak Grove Baptist Church
First Citizens Bank
Stanley Law Group
Johnson’s Garbage Services
Midlands Technical College
Brownstone/Campbell Construction
Bronze Sponsors
Jim Hudson
Midlands Honda
Benedict College
Classic Ford
Parker Poe Law Firm
MB Kahn
Patron Sponsors
Burr & Forman Law Firm
Dick Smith
National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP)
Global Comfort Services
Smith & Howell Law Firm
Brookland Baptist Church
Friends of the 100
Louis Morant Law Firm
Rep. Leon Howard
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“What they see is what they’ll be...and more”
The 100 Black Men of Greater Columbia, Inc. mission is to improve the quality of life for citizens within our communities, with a special emphasis on our youth, particularly in the areas of mentoring, education, economics and financial literacy, and health & wellness.
TOP 100 FOR 13 YEARS IN A ROW
RANKED ONE OF THE TOP 100 COLLEGES NATIONALLY
FOR AFRICAN AMERICAN STUDENTS EARNING ASSOCIATE DEGREES BY DIVERSE: ISSUES IN HIGHER EDUCATION .
MUSC Shawn Jenkins
Character is power.
Booker T. Washington
At
we are deeply committed to being a force for good both in and outside the legal profession
100 Black Men of Greater Columbia, SC
We are proud to support in its mission to improve the quality of life within our communities and enhance educational and economic opportunities for all African Americans
