Program - Mothers Day Jazz Brunch 2026

Pre-Mother’s Day Jazz Brunch & Hat Parade

Sunday, May 3, 2026 | 2:30PM Royal Regency Hotel Yonkers | NY

PRESENTING SPONSORS: SPONSORS:

www.s2si.org

MEDIA SPONSORS:

wcp

WESTCHESTER COUNTY PRESS

SUPPORTING SPONSORS:

DR. CHERY L. BRANNAN Sister to Sister International (STSI) Founder and CEO

Welcome to Sister to Sister International's Pre-Mother’s Day Annual Scholarship Fundraiser and Hat Parade, which continues to evolve over the years. We are pleased to commemorate our dedicated board members who have become role models and beloved ancestors, Hon. Pearl C. Quarles and Elder Lavinia B. Smith. They were both committed to education and our youth.

Congratulations to our honorees, Joanne Robinson-Boettcher, Roberta Robinson Frazier, Dr. Marcia V. Keizs, Hon. J. Gary Pretlow, Deborah Hudson-Jenkins, Dr. Bettye Perkins and Westchester Medical Center Network. for their years of committed service. We are proud of them and their contributions to our community and STSI. Their long-standing commitment is amazing!

Special thanks to all of our sponsors, board members, members, and community partners for their ongoing collaboration and support.

Kudos to the STSI event planning committee and all of our STEAM Sistahs. We thank you all for your support and encourage our STEAM Sistahs to keep Reaching for the Stars. Enjoy, Stay Tuned, and Stay Connected!

Sisterly,

Dr. Cheryl

HON. PEARL C. QUARLES GUARDIAN OF THE MISSION AWARD

Hon. Pearl C. Quarles was an inaugural Sister to Sister International, Inc. (STSI) Board Member who served as the Parliamentarian and a staunch supporter of fundraising for educational initiatives and scholarships. As a former County Legislator and Community Leader, her legacy continues with the strong work ethic and leadership exhibited by STSI Board Members focused on scholarships and pathways to careers.

DR. LAVINIA LAVINIA B. SMITH DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD

Mother Lavinia was a retired school counselor and dedicated Board Member of Sister to Sister International, Inc. (STSI) for over ten years. She was active with all of STSI's empowerment strategies, especially related to youth. Our Board Members and the Community loved her dearly, and she was well known as the leader of the "Granny Rappers" a group of elders in Mount Vernon who “rapped” about and advocated for youth. Her legacy continues through the steadfast hard work and commitment of STSI board members.

PROGRAM

WELCOME Germaine Scott

GREETINGS & SPECIAL RECOGNITION PRESENTATION Dr. Cheryl Lynn Brannan

MISTRESS OF CEREMONIES Simone Brannan STSI STEAM SISTAH

PERFORMANCE BY STSI SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD Deborah Hudson-Jenkins Westchester County's First Lady

INVOCATION Vera Cheek STSI Board Member

Westchester Medical Center Health Network

AWARDS CEREMONY DR. CHERYL LYNN BRANNAN

FOUNDERS CIRCLE AWARD

HON. PEARL C. QUARLES

DR. LAVINIA B. SMITH

DR. MARCIA V. KEIZS

DR. BETTYE PERKINS & TSTT

GUARDIAN OF THE MISSION AWARD DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD

E. ADELL DOWDY, JOANNE ROBINSON-BOETTCHER & ROBERTA ROBINSON-FRAZIER

Special Endowment Announcement HON. J. GARY PRETLOW STSI Legacy Spotlight

PRE-MOTHER’S DAY DINING PERFORMANCE BY

HAT PARADE CONTEST STSI STEAM SISTAHS

CHAMPAGNE TOAST

Brenda Bracey - STSI Board Member

ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE AUCTION WINNERS CLOSING REMARKS & VOTE OF THANKS

Ghiliane Clark, STSI Board Member & Fundraising Co-Chair

TODAY’S PERFORMERS

Aubrey McKoy Vocalist

Kaitlyn Smith Spoken Word Artist

Leading On Stage and In Her Community Denzel Washington School of the Arts

Poet Laureate of Mount Vernon Denzel Washington School of the Arts

DR. CHERYL LYNN BRANNAN

EERONOH

FOUNDERS CIRCLE AWARD E. Adell Dowdy E. Adell Dowdy is a distinguished education leader and administrator with over 30 years of service in the New York City Department of Education. She holds degrees from Bennett College, New York University, and City College of New York, and has served as an adjunct professor at Mercy University. An educational consultant and community leader, she supports initiatives that connect schools, colleges, and communities, and has held leadership roles with organizations such as Sister to Sister International Inc. and AMANI Public Charter School. Active in her church and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., she is widely respected for her commitment, compassion, and dedication to advancing educational excellence.

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DR. CHERYL LYNN BRANNAN FOUNDERS CIRCLE AWARD

Joanne Robinson-Boettcher & Roberta Robinson Frazier

EERONOH

Joanne Robinson-Boettcher and Roberta Robinson Frazier are lifelong Yonkers residents, sisters, and distinguished community leaders who have dedicated their lives to service, education, and social justice. As young women, they proudly represented the City of Yonkers during the historic March on Washington in 1963, standing on the front lines of the Civil Rights Movement.

Both sisters built impactful careers as educators in the New York City public school system, while simultaneously serving their communities as activists and tireless volunteers. Their lifelong commitment to civic engagement and advocacy has left an enduring mark throughout Westchester County.

Their early involvement in the Civil Rights Movement helped shape their paths of service. In 1965, Roberta spent the summer in Greenwood, Mississippi, working on voter registration efforts with the NAACP. During this time, she met civil rights leader Fannie Lou Hamer —an experience that deeply influenced her lifelong commitment to justice and equality.

Joanne’s work extended internationally through her involvement with Women for Racial and Economic Equality (WREE). In 1986, she traveled to Kenya as part of a delegation focused on advancing women’s economic empowerment, further reflecting her global commitment to equity and peace.

Both Joanne and Roberta are founding members of the Westchester Black Women’s Political Caucus and have each served on numerous boards and organizations, including the NAACP, WESPAC, and various local community initiatives. Joanne also served as the organization’s first Recording Secretary and has been a longtime Democratic District Leader in Yonkers.

Together, they have received numerous honors, including the “Patron Saints of Yonkers” Award from the Friends of Philipse Manor Hall and the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. “Keeper of the Flame” Award from the City of Yonkers. They have also served as honorary Grand Marshals of the Yonkers African American Heritage Parade.

Their legacy is one of leadership, resilience, and unwavering dedication to uplifting others and strengthening their community.

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HON. PEARL C. QUARLES

GUARDIAN OF THE MISSION AWARD

EERONOH

Dr. Marcia V. Keizs Dr. Marcia V. Keizs has had a distinguished nearly 50-year career within

City University of New York, rising from an accomplished classroom teacher to a respected academic leader. She served as President of York College from 2005 to 2019, where she strengthened academic programs, expanded enrollment, enhanced campus infrastructure, and built impactful community partnerships, firmly positioning the college on a path of excellence.

A dedicated scholar of African American women writers and community leader, she has served on numerous nonprofit boards and remains actively engaged in organizations supporting women and youth. A native of Kingston, Jamaica, Dr. Keizs holds degrees from the University of Manitoba and Teachers College Columbia University, along with a certificate from the Harvard Graduate School of Education, and continues in retirement to mentor and uplift future generations.

Hon. J. Gary Pretlow EERONOH

Assemblymember J. Gary Pretlow has served in the New York State Assembly since 1992, representing communities in Mount Vernon and Yonkers. A former finance professional and co-founder of Moncur-Pretlow & Company, he began his public service on the Mount Vernon City Council, where he advanced housing and development initiatives. In the Assembly, he notably chaired the Racing & Wagering Committee for 19 years, leading efforts to legalize video lottery terminals and expand sports betting, generating significant funding for education. His legislative work also includes child protection and maternal health laws, and in 2025 he was appointed Chairman of the Ways & Means Committee.

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LAVINIA LA VINIA B. SMITH

EERONOH

DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD Dr. Bettye Perkins & TSTT

Dr. Bettye H. Perkins, Ed.D., Founder and CEO of Today’s Students Tomorrow’s Teachers (TSTT), is a visionary leader dedicated to closing the teacher diversity gap for over 30 years. She launched TSTT in 1994 in Westchester County with just seven students, growing it into a multi-state program that has mentored more than 1,700 students and produced over 350 educators nationwide. A former teacher and IBM executive, she has led groundbreaking partnerships—including one with South Carolina State University—and earned numerous honors for her impact in education. Dr. Perkins holds degrees from North Carolina A&T State University, Pace University, and Fordham University, and continues to shape the future of education through her leadership and advocacy.

STSI SPECIAL RECOGNITION Westchester County's First Lady,

Ms. Debbie Hudson-Jenkins

Deborah Elizabeth Hudson-Jenkins is a dynamic leader and community advocate whose impact extends beyond her historic role as the first African American First Lady of Westchester County. A Yonkers native, she is the wife of Ken Jenkins, with whom she has shared 43 years of marriage, raising three children and enjoying life as grandparents. With over 27 years in the technology industry—including work with IBM and GE Capital—she now serves as a licensed Health and Life Insurance Agent. A graduate of CUNY Lehman College and Iona College, Deborah remains deeply engaged in her community through organizations like Youth Theatre Interaction Inc., exemplifying a life of service, compassion, and purpose.

Westchester Medical Center Health Network

The Westchester Medical Center Health Network (WMCHealth) is a leading nonprofit healthcare system headquartered in Valhalla, New York, serving communities across the Hudson Valley and beyond. Anchored

by Westchester Medical Center—a nationally recognized academic medical center—WMCHealth includes a broad network of hospitals and specialty facilities such as Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital, MidHudson Regional Hospital, and Good Samaritan Hospital. The network provides advanced, patient-centered care across a wide range of specialties, including trauma, cardiac services, neurology, oncology, and pediatric care, supported by cutting-edge technology and a strong academic partnership with New York Medical College. Committed to excellence, innovation, and community health, WMCHealth plays a vital role in improving access to high-quality care while advancing medical education and research throughout the region.

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STSI BOARD OF DIRECTORS Dr. Cheryl Lynn Brannan

Founder & CEO

Germaine Scott Zelda Strong-Diaz, MPA

Co-Chairs

Vera Cheek

Secretary

Georgia Reid Douglas, MPA

Treasurer

Deana Nelson, CMP Brenda Bracey Dr. Angela Campbell Kassandra M. Woody Tinuke Colpa, MS, SBL, SDA Charmaine Golding, MS Athena Dent-Alleyne, CHC Gwen Parris, Esq.

Rev. Marcia White-Smith, MS, MDiv. Ghiliane Clark Chiatogu Onyewu, MD, PhD Donna Elise Bell, MBA CHES Jordanne-Ashley Lewis, MS Mara Calderon Guerra Sybil St. Germaine Nicole Adair

Pamela Verette

Financial Secretary

STSI WORKGROUPS & CONSULTANTS JUVENILE & SOCIAL JUSTICE WORKGROUP

Chair: Shurla Tukuru & Pat White, MA

ENTREPRENEURSHIP, PAY EQUITY, & ECONOMIC PROSPERITY WORKGROUP Chair: Charmaine Golding, MS Co-Chairs: Georgia Reid-Douglas, MPA & Beryl Weaver, MS

STEM/STEAM CAREERS Chair: Lydia K. Smith

BLACK MATERNAL HEALTH & HEALTHY LIFESTYLES WORKGROUP Co-Chair: Donna Elise Bell, MBA CHES, Millissa Bess, BSN RN OCN SBTO Co-Chair: Khalia Jones, CPA & Erica Williams-Woodley, RN MSN NP Communications: Jennifer Jones & Gloria Cunningham

CONSULTANTS

Dr. Valerie Mason Cunningham, Strategic Planning Beryl Weaver, MS, Community Partner Liaison Tsahai Amazan, Development & Administration Gloria Cunningham, Marketing & Technology Lydia Smith, MBA, STEAM Program Cheryl Hunter-Grant, MSW, Black Maternal Health Eden Gilliam, Social Media

STSI STEERING COMMITTEE

Dr. Marcia V. Keizs, Allison Lake, MBA, Dr. La Ruth Gray, E. Adell Dowdy, MA, Hon. Janet Malone, Jamie Hubert, MBA, Lauren Williams, Patricia White, MA, Rashida Thigpen, Esq., Kecia Palmer-Cousins, Hon. Shawyn Patterson-Howard, MA, Suzanne Greenidge-Hewitt, MD, Hon. Terry Clements, Yedidah Yehudah, MA RD, Paige Long Sharps, MD, Cammie Jones-Fridrichs, Bianca Gambrah, MHC-LLP, CLC, OWDS, Stephanie Lovinsky-Desir, MD, Hon. Gina Jackson, Sade E. Amazan, MBA, Dr. Mzimeli Morris, MD, FACOG, Victor Petenkemani, Hon. Shanae Williams, Judge Verris Shako *Roslyn Abrams

*Honorary Steering Committee Member Page 7

2025 Accomplishments 2025 Accomplishments

Community Engagement Accomplishments at a Glance

16 Webinars Conducted

Over 1500 People Impacted

14 Community Education Forums

275 Students Engaged Issues 10 Pillar / Initiative Raised

Pillars STSI Initiatives STSI actively addresses Black maternal health and overall wellness through community education, outreach, and engagement, including webinars on Black maternal health, mental health, and heart health, as well as initiatives like the “Sisters Beating the Odds” physical activity challenge. Our efforts empower Black women with critical health knowledge and resources, promoting healthier lifestyles and reducing health disparities.

STSI advances entrepreneurship, economic prosperity, and pay equity by equipping Black women with financial literacy, business networking, and certification opportunities. Through Smart Money workshops, Black Women’s Equal Pay Day advocacy, and MWBE certification training, we empower women to build wealth and sustain successful businesses.

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STSI empowers young women of color to pursue STEAM, STEM, and health careers through hands-on experiences like our STEAM Summer Camp, Money Marketing & Mindset Conference, and industry partnerships with UKG and Regeneron.

Our initiatives, including virtual college prep and site visits, provide the knowledge, exposure, and mentorship needed to build successful futures in these fields.

STSI advocates for Juvenile & Social justice by supporting parents, engaging youth, and driving policy change. Through partnerships with Braveheart, focus groups in group homes, and advocacy for Solutions Not Suspensions legislation, we work to improve youth mental health and create equitable opportunities for system-impacted youth.

UPCOMING EVENTS DOA Kwanzaa STD

STSI Friends & Family Day Picnic Sat, Jul 11, 2026 Sprain Ridge Park Please join the STSI Family for our annual Family & Friends Day. Sprain Ridge Park Pavilion #1

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STSI STEAM

Deadline - May 25, 2026 Now in its 17th year, the demand for the STEAM Academy and summer program is growing rapidly. Sister to Sister International's STEAM Sistahs program is dedicated to empowering women and girls of color by providing them with opportunities and resources in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM). We serve a diverse group of girls from underserved communities, helping them build the skills and confidence needed to pursue successful careers in these critical areas. ​

STSI SCHOLARSHIP BRUNCH AND ACTIVITIES OVER THE YEARS

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JOIN STSI TODAY! MEMBERSHIP OVERVIEW Members are the life force of Sister to Sister International, Inc. and as such are relied upon to make the organization successful in attaining its mission and strategic objectives. We invite new members to join us and “Catch the Spirit!”

STSI implements its mission-driven programs and signature activities through volunteer committee members. Our programs and activities are produced throughout the year, along with quarterly “themed” membership meetings.

MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS​

​ 1.Broaden your exposure and information network to include women who are change agents throughout the African Diaspora.

2.Become a part of a support network that Connects, Advances and Strengthens women of African descent globally.

3.Complimentary subscription to the STSI Newsletter that features timely updates on critical issues, conferences and events pertaining to women globally.

4.Discounts on STSI events!

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COLLECTIVE IMPACT PARTNERS AND STAKEHOLDERS Department of Health Office for Women Women’s Advisory Board

SCHOLARSHIP & FUNDRAISING COMMITTEE:

A special thank you to the Scholarship and Fundraising Committee for their outstanding efforts in planning and executing this year’s Pre-Mother’s Day Jazz Brunch and Hat Parade. Their dedication, creativity, and commitment helped make the event a true success. We are deeply grateful to each of them for all their hard work in advancing our mission and creating such a memorable celebration GERMAINE SCOTT, GEORGIA REID DOUGLAS, MS, DEANA NELSON, CMP, BRENDA BRACEY, DR. MARCIA V. KEIZS, REV. MARCIA WHITE SMITH, DR. ANGELA CAMPBELL, CHARMAINE GOLDING, MS, LAUREN WILLIAMS, TSAHAI T. AMAZAN, DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANT & EVENT COORDINATOR MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS: GLORIA LANTIGUA-CUNNINGHAM

Serving the Community Since 1994

Sister to Sister International, Inc. P.O. Box 351 Yonkers, NY 10703 Email: info@s2si.org Phone: 914 207 0368 Fax: 914 207 0369