2024 GALA SOUVENIR PROGRAM BOOK

Thank You to All of Our Sponsors DIAMOND

GOLD

SILVER

AFTER PARTY

HONOREE VIDEO

MEDIA

SOUVENIR PROGRAM BOOK

HOST BAR

44th Annual Scholarship & Awards Gala Program Saturday, November 2nd, 2024 7:00 PM Mistress of Ceremonies Danita Harris News Anchor, WKYC Studios

Executive Director’s Remarks Laurie Murphy, MBA, MPH, MS Executive Director, BPACF

Invocation Reverend Larry Macon Jr. Co-Pastor, Mt. Zion Church of Oakwood Village

Gala Co-Chair Remarks Allen M. Siverls, MBA, CFSP, CPC, CCFP, DTM President & CEO, The Triumph Group LLC

Negro National Anthem

HONOREE VIDEO TRIBUTE

President’s Remarks Dr. Michele Scott Taylor, Ed.D., PgMP, GCDF President, BPACF Board of Trustees President, College Now Greater Cleveland

Award Presentation BPACF Executive Committee

Diamond Sponsor Remarks Gregory Walker Senior Vice President, State & District Partnerships, College Board DINNER IS SERVED Reflection on the Scholar Journey Tanaziona Lucious, BPACF Scholar Senior, Cleveland State University Sonyea Moore, BPACF Scholar Senior, Kent State University

Acceptance Remarks W. Byron Calhoun 2024 Black Professional of the Year Owner & President, Calhoun Funeral Homes/Northeast Ohio Crematory/Nela Florist Closing Remarks Tyson Mitchell, JD, LLM Vice President, BPACF Director of the Mayor’s Office of Equal Opportunity City of Cleveland Benediction Reverend Larry Macon Jr. Co-Pastor, Mt. Zion Church of Oakwood Village

Douglas Burnett III, BPACF Scholar Alumni Graduate Student, The Ohio State University

“LOW AIM IS SIN”

Letter from BPACF Leadership Welcome to the Black Professionals Association Charitable Foundation's (BPACF) 44th Annual Scholarship and Awards Gala.

It is with profound pride and gratitude that we gather tonight to celebrate not only the achievements of our scholars but also our collective commitment to building a brighter future and celebrating the limitless potential that lies within each of us.

Tonight, we salute W. Byron Calhoun, President of Calhoun Funeral Homes, as our 2024 Black Professional of the Year. His life and work serve as a beacon of leadership, resilience, and dedication—values that align deeply with our mission to empower, uplift, and transform lives.

To our scholarship recipients, congratulations! Your academic achievements, resilience, and vision for the future inspire us all. You are the embodiment of our mission: to create pathways for success and leadership through scholarship, career development, and mentorship. Your accomplishments are not just your own; they represent the future of our community—a future we are committed to investing in, year after year.

At BPACF, we believe in the power of education, leadership, and economic mobility to transform lives. Our vision is to be the catalyst that prepares and develops Black professionals at every stage of their career journey. From pre-professional to retired professional, BPACF serves as a hub for continuous growth, advocacy, and community building. Through your unwavering support, we have surpassed 1,000 scholarships awarded since 1985, a testament to the impact we are making together.

Our gala is more than a celebration; it is an investment in our shared vision for the future. The scholarships, internships, and programs you support help us expand opportunities for students and professionals, creating lasting change in our communities. With each contribution, we take another step toward fulfilling our mission to foster education, leadership, and economic equity.

On behalf of the BPACF Board of Trustees, we thank you for your dedication, generosity, and belief in our cause. Together, we are shaping a brighter tomorrow for generations to come. Let tonight be a reminder that when we aim high, the possibilities are endless.

Warmest regards, Dr. Michele Scott Taylor, Ed.D. Board President Laurie A. Murphy, MBA, MPH, MS Executive Director

“LOW AIM IS SIN”

BPACF Board of Trustees

Officers

Michele Scott Taylor, Ed.D., PgMP, GCDF - President College Now Greater Cleveland Tyson Mitchell, Esq. - Vice President City of Cleveland Keesha Salters - Secretary Unique Perspectives, LLC Paul Farrington - Treasurer Pentair Marcella J. Brown, Lutheran Metropolitan Ministry LaRaun T. Clayton, Volunteers of America-Ohio & Indiana Toi Comer, City Year Cleveland Vaneshia Houston, Greater Cleveland RTA Edwin Hubbard, Jr., Cleveland NAACP Shawn J. Kindle, PNC Financial Services Group Paris Lampkins, PRADCO Jazmin Long, Birthing Beautiful Communities Veranda Rodgers, Pregnant With Possibilities Resource Center Anthony Scott, Esq., City of Cleveland Meredith M. Turner, Cuyahoga County Council Lauren R. Welch, Say Yes Cleveland

Ex-Officio Members

Meltrice D. Sharp, CPA, CLE Consulting Firm, Immediate Past President Arthur Baker, Co-Founder & Trustee Emeritus Nancella Harris, Co-Founder & Trustee Emeritus Laurie Murphy, Executive Director

“LOW AIM IS SIN”

W. Byron Calhoun

W. Byron Calhoun is a distinguished figure in the field of funeral services, serving as the Owner and President of Calhoun Funeral Homes, which annually extends its compassionate care to over one thousand families.

Byron's journey in the funeral service industry is a testament to his commitment to excellence, innovation, and community involvement.

In 2006, Byron opened the first Calhoun Funeral Home on Lakeshore Blvd, marking the beginning of an exceptional legacy in funeral service. Recognizing the need for expansion to better serve the community, he expanded his operations in 2012 by inaugurating the Bedford Heights location. The commitment to growth continued in 2016 when Byron acquired Stewart & Calhoun Funeral Home, a meaningful step that connected his professional journey with his father, the late William Calhoun. In 2018, Northeast Ohio Crematory was established, offering an essential service to families in their time of need. In 2022, Byron further expanded his portfolio with the acquisition of Nela Florist, complementing the range of services offered by the Calhoun Funeral Homes family.

With more than three decades of experience, Byron Calhoun is a licensed funeral director, embalmer, crematory operator, and life insurance agent. His wealth of knowledge and expertise has been pivotal in providing the highest level of service to families during their most challenging moments.

Byron's educational journey has been marked by dedication and academic achievement. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Morehouse College—a prestigious institution known for shaping leaders and fostering a commitment to social responsibility, followed by an associate degree from the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science. Further enhancing his qualifications, Byron completed his master’s degree at Baldwin Wallace College School of Business, equipping him with invaluable strategic insights into the funeral service industry.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Byron has actively contributed to the funeral service community. He served as President of Selected Independent Funeral Homes, an esteemed association founded in 1917 to promote cooperation and the future of funeral service. Membership in this organization is extended by invitation only, a testament to Byron's character, professional ability, and outstanding reputation.

Byron's dedication to community involvement shines through his extensive volunteer service on charitable boards, including the Akron Urban League, Child Guidance & Family Solutions, and The Kappa Foundation. He is a proud member of The House of the Lord Church, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc, Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity (the Boule), He is a 33rd Degree Mason, and member of the Morehouse College National Alumni Association. Byron's commitment to education is exemplified by the endowed scholarships he and his wife established at Morehouse and Spelman Colleges.

Byron's partner in life and support is his wife, Alison GravesCalhoun, Ph.D., a Principal Scientist with Medtronic, Inc. Together, they share the joy of parenthood, with their daughter Amaia, a 2023 valedictorian from Spelman College, now working as an analyst with PRINCO, the investment firm managing the endowment for Princeton University.

W. Byron Calhoun's enduring commitment to excellence, community service, and family values continues to shape the compassionate and professional services provided by Calhoun Funeral Homes, Northeast Ohio Crematory, and Nela Florist.

His unwavering dedication to both his profession and community uplifts those he serves and exemplifies the true essence of leadership and compassion.

Letter from Host Committee Leaders Dear Esteemed Guests, Welcome to the 44th Annual Scholarship and Awards Gala, hosted by the Black Professional Association Charitable Foundation (BPACF). On behalf of the 2024 Gala Host Committee, we extend our warmest greetings as we gather to celebrate BPACF Scholars and honor W. Byron Calhoun, Owner and President of Calhoun Funeral Homes, Northeast Ohio Crematory, and Nela Florist, as the 2024 Black Professional of the Year.

Under the theme "Low Aim Is Sin," inspired by the words of Benjamin E. Mays, we celebrate Byron for his remarkable achievements and commitment to service and leadership. His journey exemplifies the spirit of aiming high and making a lasting impact.

BPACF’s legacy of providing scholarships and empowering over 1,000 scholars since 1985 reflects our dedication to education, leadership, and economic mobility. Tonight, we honor both the exceptional students whose futures are bright, and the path forged by leaders like Mr. Calhoun, whose influence inspires us all.

We are incredibly grateful to the members of our host committee, sponsors, and donors. Your unwavering support empowers us to offer opportunities that uplift our scholars and community.

As we celebrate W. Byron Calhoun and our scholars, let us be reminded of the power of unity, purpose, and aiming high. Together, we continue building success and creating opportunities for future generations.

Thank you for your presence and steadfast support of BPACF’s mission to create a lasting impact through education and opportunity.

With warmest regards, Chairs Justin Horton, Stratos Wealth Partners Randell McShepard, RPM International Inc. LaRese Purnell, CLE Consulting Firm Allen Siverls, The Triumph Group LLC Honorary Chairs Arthur Baker Jr., AT&T (Retired) Erskine Cade, Strategic Health Care Alex Johnson, Ph.D., Cuyahoga Community College (President Emeritus) 44th Annual Scholarship and Awards Gala Host Committee Black Professional Association Charitable Foundation

2024 Gala Host Committee Chairs Justin Horton, Stratos Wealth Partners Randell McShepard, RPM International Inc. LaRese Purnell, CLE Consulting Firm Allen Siverls, The Triumph Group LLC Honorary Chairs Arthur Baker Jr, AT&T, Retired Erskine Cade, Strategic Health Care Alex Johnson, Cuyahoga Community College- Emeritus Members Robin Baum, Zinner & Co Teresa Metcalf Beasley, Esq., McDonald Hopkins LLC Traci Buckner, Akron Children’s Museum Dana Capers, Fifth Third Bank Alison Graves-Calhoun, Medtronic Ron Gross, Ferris Forum Ariane Kirkpatrick, The AKA Team Andrea Lyons, Neighborhood Family Practice Darrell McNair, MVP Plastics Inc. Robyn Minter-Smyers, Esq., Thompson Hine LLP Marsha Mockabee, Urban League of Greater Cleveland Tina Rice, T Rice Communications Renee Tramble Richard, Esq., Cuyahoga Community College Veronica Sims, Ohio State Representative District 33 Hilton Smith, Turner Construction-Retired Shanelle Smith Whigham, KeyBank Meredith Turner, Cuyahoga County Councilwoman Gregory Walker, College Board Natoya Walker Minor, Greater Cleveland RTA Vanessa Whiting, A.E.S. Management Corp. dba Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen Sonali Wilson, Cleveland State University Lorna Wisham, FirstEnergy Foundation

Bronze Sponsors

AMETEK Brannan Manna & Diamond LLC College Board College Now Greater Cleveland E.F. Boyd & Son Funeral Home and Cremation, Inc. Equitable Advisors Gateway Outdoor Advertising Gilbane Building Company Huntington Bank The McNair Family Foundation

Tables

Akron Urban League Dr. Modlin Health & Wellness Group Forever Mom Legacy Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. ~Akron Alumni Chapter Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. ~Cleveland Alumni Chapter The Male Minority Leadership Group of Orange High School Morehouse Alumni Association Greater Cleveland Neighborhood Family Practice Pregnant with Possibilities Resource Center Presidents’ Council Trustee Meredith Turner Trustee Tyson Mitchell United Black Fund of Greater Cleveland Urban League of Greater Cleveland

Half-Tables

American Limousine Company Batesville Casket Company Ferris Forum TeamNEO Westfield Bank

Donors & Proclamations

Donors

American Express Elizabeth Park Capital Management Company ERIEBANK Ernestine and Malcolm Brown Visual Arts Legacy Fund Evergreen Memorial Park Association MKJ Marketing Select Independent Funeral Homes Ohio Funeral Directors Association WKYC Studios

Patrons

Melissa Burrows India Lee S. Theresa Carter Adrienne Lucas Tracy Carter Robyn Minter-Smyers Rev Courtney Clayton Jenkins Laurie Murphy Nancella Harris Heather Rice Donna Johnson Harvey Alida Sims Judy & Gregory Hill Allen Siverls Carmen and Courtney Hollowell Nicole Ward Shamarah Hutchins Myesha Watkins Garimah Jones Tobias Williams

In Memoria

Edward Chen: In honor of Myron Williams

Proclamations

United States Representative Shontel Brown United States Representative Emilia Sykes Ohio Governor Mike DeWine Cuyahoga County Council City of Cleveland – Mayor Justin M. Bibb City of Akron – Mayor Shammas Malik Cleveland City Council - President Blaine A. Griffin

Message From Our Co-Founders Dear Friends and Supporters, In 1985, we embarked on a journey to empower, educate, and elevate the lives of young individuals in our community. Today, as co-founders of the Black Professionals Association Charitable Foundation (BPACF), we stand proud of the remarkable legacy we’ve built together since 1977, when the Black Professionals Association was conceived in a basement meeting room at Karamu House.

This year, we celebrate a milestone—surpassing 1,000 scholarships awarded, totaling almost $3.8 million. These scholarships, combined with our programming, continue to create pathways to brighter futures and open doors of possibility for the next generation of leaders.

We want to express our deepest gratitude to all of you—our supporters, donors, volunteers, and friends—who have made this journey possible. Your unwavering dedication drives our mission, and together, we have transformed lives and nurtured a community built on progress.

Our gala is a testament to the enduring impact of education, mentorship, and community support.

The funds raised tonight represent investments in the future, supporting both scholarships and vital programming. This evening, we also honor W. Byron Calhoun, our 2024 Black Professional of the Year. A proud graduate of Morehouse College, W. Byron is a beacon of excellence, inspired by the words of Benjamin E. Mays: “The tragedy in life doesn’t lie in not reaching your goal. The tragedy lies in having no goal to reach.” His chosen theme, “Low Aim Is Sin,” challenges us all to strive for greatness.

We invite you to join us in commemorating this exceptional evening. Your presence signifies your role in our journey, and we look forward to a night of celebration and empowerment.

Warmest regards, Nancella Wilson Harris Arthur Baker Jr. Co-Founders Black Professionals Association Charitable Foundation

Our Heritage Our Mission The mission of the Black Professionals Association Charitable Foundation (BPACF) is to create opportunities for African American professionals by providing scholarship, leadership, and career development. Our vision is to be a catalyst that prepares and develops emerging professionals, celebrates distinguished leaders and elevates our community.

Our Heritage & Origin Created in 1977, the Black Professionals Association (BPA) was an organization dedicated to networking, professional growth, and development in Greater Cleveland’s African American community. To celebrate the accomplishments of successful Black Professionals, BPA held the first Black Professional of the Year Gala in 1981. The goal of that first gala was to honor the accomplishments of Bertram Gardner, a banker, who served as a mentor for many, as well as for his contributions made to our community. The celebration was greatly received and thus the tradition of the annual Black Professional of the Year was established.

The Creation of the Foundation The legacy of raising awareness and supporting the development of Black leaders in our community is the primary purpose of the Black Professionals Association Charitable Foundation (BPACF). BPACF, an outgrowth of BPA, was established in October of 1985 after the gala revenues reached a significant return on investment. The leadership of BPA then determined the need to establish a charitable foundation, to raise and distribute charitable funds and assure that African Americans from Northeast Ohio with academic and leadership potential have an opportunity to advance to higher education and join the ranks of our region’s outstanding leaders and professionals. The founders of BPACF were Tanya Allmond, Arthur Baker, Jr., and Nancella Wilson Harris. Both BPA and BPACF were managed concurrently until 2006 when BPA was sunset. Since 2007 all activities have operated under BPACF. Today, we remain committed to our mission of scholarship, leadership, and career development. We continue the legacy of honoring the achievements of professionals who encourage others to strive for excellence, creating connections in our community and investing in tomorrow’s leaders.

BPACF Programs & Services BPACF creates connections in our community, investing in today’s and tomorrow’s leaders. Our focus areas: I. Scholarship & Youth Programming II. Networking & Professional Development, and III. Professional Awards & Recognition

I. Scholarship & Youth Programming

BPACF has a suite of workforce and professional development offerings available to emerging youth, community partners, local companies, and businesses. The continuum encourages and supports efforts to identify and develop talent and diversify our region’s workforce.

BPACF Scholars Program We provide gap scholarships and professional development coaching for college students who are graduates of Northeast Ohio high schools. Annually we support a cohort of 35-40 scholars.

“College to Career” Series The series allows students to meet one another and top executives from Northeast Ohio and learn more about their career paths.

Career Connect Internship Program The purpose of the program is to provide early exposure in a student’s major; provide resume-building project opportunities, and complete projects of importance to the hosting organization.

II. Networking & Professional Development

The Black Professional Magazine: A Guide to Building Village!™ This quarterly electronic publication provides content relevant to all sectors of the BPACF target audience in Northeast Ohio, and this region. It includes relevant storytelling, regular columns, profiles of students/BPACF Student Alumni, successful entrepreneurs, executives, and talented civic leaders.

BPACF “Professional Night Out” Networking Series: BPACF hosts a semi-annual networking mixer to encourage and foster an environment for professional network-building to take place.

Engage!: A series of relevant activities designed to increase the civic engagement of young professionals, and facilitate peer and near-peer professional networking.

III. Professional Awards & Recognition

It is vitally important that BPACF recognizes and celebrates the excellence of Black professionals in Northeast Ohio. Consistently providing models of excellence from all underrepresented sectors of the business community to young scholars and young professionals is a necessary component of our mission and vision.

BPACF Scholars Welcome to the academic year 2024-2025 cohort of BPACF Scholars! We are thrilled to support 41 exceptional students hailing from Northeast Ohio. These bright minds have embarked on their educational journeys at 27 college and university campuses across the county.

As BPACF Scholars, they represent the promise of our region's future, and we look forward to witnessing their academic achievements and contributions to their communities in the years ahead. With diverse backgrounds and a commitment to excellence, this cohort is poised to make a positive impact both locally and beyond.

Congratulations to our 2024-2025 BPACF scholars, and may this academic year be filled with growth, discovery, and success.

Kianna Armstrong Architecture University of Southern California

Jaylen Brunson Criminal Justice Tennessee State University

Anaysia Englebrecht Business Management Kent State University

Kennedy Ashford Cybersecurity Hampton University

Jordan Brunson Computer Science The University of Akron

Amiracle Green Computer Science Alabama State University

Kaylen Bannerman Journalism/Communications Florida Memorial University

Aaron Burnett Finance Morehouse College

Chloe Hamilton Political Science Loyola University of Maryland

Allison Benson Elementary Education Clark Atlanta

Jenaya Carlisle Brooks Psychology Howard University

Jon Henderson II Biology Valparaiso University

Victor Boyd Computer Science Case Western Reserve University

Kiara Cartwright Human Development Bowling Green State University

Joshua Henderson Education Intervention Specialist Central State University

Shamari Brazile International Affairs George Washington University

Nevaeh Coffee Psychology Tennessee State University

Rayanna Henry Biology The Ohio State University

Benjamin Brooks Political Science The Ohio State University

Skylar Edgerton Kinesiology/ Exercise Science Hampton University

Bryce Hodge Political Science Case Western Reserve University

Maylon Johnson Theater (Liberal Arts) The Ohio State University

Cheyenne Neeley Civil Engineering Ohio University

Xavier Sledge Earth Science The University of Akron

Kendall Long Biology Howard University

Samaura Newman Aviation Bowling Green State University

Kayla Lowery Finance Bowie State University

Richard Pickett Exercise Science Cleveland State University

Kennedy Smith Computer Science & Cognitive Science Columbia University

Tanaziona Lucious Pre-Physical Therapy Cleveland State University

Amarionna Pruitt Nursing Howard University

Tilneisha Malone Music Ohio University

Lakeeta Robinson Psychology Kent State University

Robert McFarren Pre-Pharmacy Purdue University

Autumn Sawyer Chemical Engineering The University of Akron

Sonyea Moore Biological Anthropology & Africana Studies Kent State University

Zaynab Shaheed Nutritional Biochemistry and Metabolism Case Western Reserve University

Reauna Walker Biology Pre-Med Morgan State University Rhianna Williams Business Administration Kentucky State University Jayden Willis Finance Bowling Green State University India Woodson Forensic Biology Baldwin Wallace University

Career Connect Internship Program About the Program

The Career Connect Internship Program provides post-secondary students with invaluable hands-on work experience through two unique pathways. Over an 8-week summer period, students are matched with small businesses, for-profit, and nonprofit organizations that offer mini-internship opportunities tailored to their academic and career interests. Designed to foster the development of professional soft skills and enhance career readiness, the program creates a supportive and safe space for students to grow and excel.

Impact The Career Connect Internship Program not only equips students with critical workplace skills but also strengthens the pipeline of historically underrepresented professionals entering the workforce. The true impact of the program is best expressed through the voices of the students: "I would have never expected to be given an opportunity to work an internship in the field I am pursuing.

This was an amazing experience.. I learned new tools, met new people, and learned more ways to adapt to the workforce setting."

"I rated it highly because, if you don't have a guaranteed internship for the summer, this is a wonderful opportunity to be placed in a learning environment tailored to your interests."

"Yes, I could have participated without the educational stipend, but it would have been challenging to dedicate as much time due to financial constraints. The stipend significantly alleviated my financial pressures, allowing me to fully engage and focus on the learning experience."

2024 Summer Interns Underwritten by BPACF

Chloe Hamilton

Cameron Dawson

Major: Political Science Loyola University of Maryland Mini-Internship Host: BPACF

Major: Design Cleveland State University Mini-Internship Host: DesignExplorr

Jair Knight

Major: Finance & Management Consulting Emery University Mini-Internship Host: AKA Team

Jehiel Knight

Major: Finance The Ohio State University Mini-Internship Host: CLE Consulting Firm

Lyndsey Stephens

Major: Digital Arts Bowling Green State University Mini-Internship Host: DesignExplorr

Mini-Internship Host: CLE Consulting Firm

Legacy of Leadership William K. Wolfe * 1976 Founder, Black Professionals Association (BPA)

Alexandria Johnson Boone 1991-1992 President, BPACF 1993-1994 Chairman, BPA

Alan Shatteen 1977-1979 Chairman, BPA

Ronald Barnes 1993-1995 President, BPACF

Edward S. Young 1980-1982 Chairman, BPA

Franklin F. Martin 1995-1999 Chairman, BPA Shelton L. Moore * 1996-1997 President, BPACF

Arthur Baker, Jr. 1983-1984 Chairman, BPA 1985 Founder, Black Professionals Association Charitable Foundation (BPACF)

Barbara A. Russell * 1997-2004 President, BPACF

Tanya M. Allmond * 1985-1986 Chairman, BPA 1985 Founder, BPACF 1985-1986 President, BPACF 2005-2007 President, BPACF

Thomas V. Harrington 2000-2001 Chairman, BPA Michelle E. Stewart 2002-2004 Chairman, BPA

Nancella Wilson-Harris 1985 Founder, BPACF

Merle B. Griggs 2004-2006 Chairman, BPA

Henry R. Freeman, Esq. * 1985-2006 Legal Counsel, BPACF

Michael E. Headen 2007-2008 President, BPACF

Richard Wilkins 1987-1988 Chairman, BPA 1987-1988 President, BPACF

Scenario B. Adebesin 2009-2010 President, BPACF Natoya J. Walker Minor 2010-2012 President, BPACF

Sylvia R. Johnson 1989-1990 Chairman, BPA 1989-1990 President, BPACF

Ronald V. Johnson, Esq. 2013-2019 President, BPACF

Constance Jefferson 1991-1992 Chairman, BPA 1991-1992 President, BPACF

Meltrice D. Sharp, CPA 2020-2023 President, BPACF

*Deceased

Hall of Fame:

Black Professional of the Year Awardees

2024: W. Byron Calhoun 2023: Ariane B. Kirkpatrick 2022: Renee Tramble Richard, Esq. 2021: Darrell L. McNair 2019: Vanessa L. Whiting, Esq. 2018: Robyn Minter Smyers, Esq. 2017: Erskine Cade 2016: Dr. Alex Johnson 2015: Dr. Charles S. Modlin 2014: Leon Bibb 2013: Dr. R.A. Vernon 2012: The Honorable Frank G. Jackson 2011: Randell McShepard 2009: Louise J. Gissendaner 2008: Frederick R. Nance, Esq. 2007: Arnold R. Pinkney * 2006: Margot James Copeland 2005: David Whitehead 2004: Rev. Hilton O. Smith 2003: Danny Cameron * 2002: Dr. Barbara Byrd-Bennett * Deceased

2001: Rev. Dr. Marvin A. McMickle 1999: Dr. Jerry Sue Thornton 1998: Wayne Embry 1997: Steve D. Bullock 1996: Claire Freeman, Esq. 1995: The Honorable Stephanie Tubbs Jones * 1994: Alexandria Johnson Boone 1993: The Honorable Michael R. White, Esq. 1992: Dr. George C. Fraser 1991: The Honorable Louis Stokes, Esq. * 1990: Gloria Pace King 1989: Dr. Charles E. Taylor 1988: Dr. Nolen M. Ellison 1987: George L. Forbes, Esq. 1986: Carole F. Hoover 1985: Steve Minter * 1984: John H. Bustamante, Esq. * 1983: Rev. Dr. Otis Moss, Jr. 1982: Cheryle A. Wills * 1981: Bertram E. Gardner *

Diverse Excellence in Achievement:

Lifetime Achievers, Legacy Award and Trendsetters Lifetime Achievers

Recognizes outstanding leaders who have made historically significant contribution to the Greater Cleveland area. Must have served in a leadership capacity for 25 years or more. These individuals are community champions who have paved the way for younger professionals to rise.

Zelma Washington George (1985) Booker T. Tall (1987) William F. Boyd (1995) Virgil E. Brown (1997) Judge Jean Murrell Capers (2000) Bracy Lewis (2009) Dr. Daisy Alford Smith (2015) Dr. Linda Bradley (2015) Dr. Julian Earls (2015)

Judge Sara J. Harper (2015) Tanya M. Allmond (2019) Arthur Baker, Jr. (2019) Nancella W. Harris (2019) Judge Ronald Adrine (2019) Marsha Mockabee (2019) Michael “Campy” Russell (2019) Dr. Yvonne Pointer (2019)

Legacy Award

Recognizes an individual with 40+ years of professional achievement spanning local, regional, and national/international accomplishments.

Robert Madison, AIA (2021)

Trendsetters (rename)

Recognizes dynamic young professionals who are making a difference in Northeast Ohio.

Anita Bradley (2018) Donovan Boyd, Sr. (2018) Sharrona Burns (2018) Juleian Curtis (2018) Joshua Edmonds (2018) Torey Tolson (2018)

Inaugural Class of 2024

On May 23rd, The Black Professionals Association Charitable Foundation (BPACF) proudly presented the inaugural class of 2024 for the 40/40 Emerging Legends. This prestigious recognition celebrates 40 trailblazing professionals, each under 40, who exemplify leadership, vision, and a commitment to excellence in their fields and communities.

The 40/40 Emerging Legends represent a new era of Black leadership, one that continues to push boundaries and redefine success. These individuals are not only making waves in their respective industries but are also dedicated to mentoring and uplifting the next generation of professionals. Through their dedication, they ensure that the future of our community is bright and that opportunities are accessible to all.

BPACF is honored to celebrate this diverse and accomplished group, whose contributions are helping to build a stronger, more vibrant professional landscape. Together, they embody the essence of BPACF’s mission—empowering and inspiring the next generation of Black leaders.

2024 BPACF 40/40 Emerging Legends Honorees Tierra Banks

Kayla Griffin

Ariel S. McNair

Brittany Smith-Fisher

Heather N. Beasley

Chardé Hollins

Terrance Scott Mitchell

Shanelle Smith Whigham

Indigo Bishop

Domonic Hopson

Andrew Newsome

Richard A. Starr

Dr. Lauren Bouchard

Dr. Shamarah Hutchins

Dr. HerMaya Onunwor

Delanté Spencer Thomas

Dr. Authur B. Boyd III

Aaron Jones

Amanda P. Parker

Gelise Littlejohn Thomas

George Bukenya

Tiarrah Kent

Sam "SP" Prewitt

Chantel Tolbert

Raphael Collins

Khalilah Lawson

Dr. Heather M. Rice

Tierra Latrice Tramble

Ivan T. Conard

Nicole L. Liatos

Jamil Sanders

Nkiruka Washington

Kendra Davis

Dr. Kimone Lightford

Kortney S. Siggers

Myesha Watkins

Camille Genise

Jason Lockett Sr.

Shaleeta Smith

Dianne Williams Suntala

AES Management dba Popeyes

W. Byron Calhoun THE 2024 BLACK PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

From Rev. Hilton O. and Marcia Smith

REVEREND HILTON O. SMITH THE 2004 BLACK PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

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Save The Dates 2025 JANUARY 7, 2025

MAY 22, 2025

BPACF Scholar Winter Symposium

40 Under 40 Emerging Legends Salute

Post-secondary students welcome 10 AM -1 PM Jerry Sue Thornton Center 2500 East 22nd Street Cleveland, OH

5:30 PM - 8:30 PM Karamu House Theater 2355 East 89th Street Cleveland, OH 44106

JANUARY 15, 2025 - MARCH 30, 2025

NOVEMBER 1, 2025

BPACF Scholars Program Application Intake Period 2025-2026 Academic Year www.bpacf.org

45th Annual Scholarship & Awards Gala 6 PM - 11 PM

With Gratitude, As the 44th Annual BPACF Scholarship and Awards Gala comes to a close, we extend our deepest thanks to each and every one of you. Your presence and support drive the work we do to uplift, empower, and inspire Black professionals and scholars.

To our generous sponsors, partners, and donors: your contributions impact the lives of BPACF Scholars and our community. Together, we are expanding opportunities and building a legacy of excellence that will last for generations.

To our 2024 Black Professional of the Year, W. Byron Calhoun: thank you for your leadership, inspiration, and commitment to service. You are a beacon of hope for future generations, and your achievements embody the spirit of this honor.

To our dedicated Board of Trustees: your leadership, guidance, and vision have shaped BPACF into the strong and vibrant organization it is today. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to advancing our mission and supporting our scholars and programs.

To our passionate volunteers: your time and dedication make everything possible. From organizing tonight's event to supporting our year-round efforts, we are deeply grateful for your hard work and commitment to BPACF’s success.

We are especially proud of our BPACF Scholars, who are pursuing excellence at these esteemed institutions: Alabama State University Baldwin Wallace University Bowie State University Bowling Green State University Case Western Reserve University

Central State University Clark Atlanta University Cleveland State University Columbia University Florida Memorial University George Washington University Hampton University

Howard University Purdue University Kent State University Tennessee State Kentucky State University University Loyola University of The Ohio State University Maryland The University of Akron Morehouse College University of Southern Morgan State University California Ohio University Valparaiso University

To our BPACF family—scholars, alumni, and supporters—thank you for embodying our mission. We are honored to walk with you on this journey.

As we reflect on tonight's celebration, we are reminded that greatness is achieved through the strength of a village. Together, we are committed to progress, equity, and opportunity for all.

Thank you for believing in the power of education and community. We look forward to continuing this journey with you.

Laurie Murphy, Executive Director Dr. Michele Scott Taylor, Board President