2023 BTL Living Legends Awards

DR.JOHNL. BARNETT, JR. DR.ARLENES. BARNETT DR.BARBARAODOM-WESLEY

2023 LEGENDS IN THE MAKING

2023 LIVING LEGENDS

CONGRATULATIONS TY STIMPSON

On behalf of Varghese Summersett we are proud to celebrate Ty Stimpson and the remarkable impact he has in propelling both our community and our firm forward. Thank you for being a pillar in the city of Fort Worth, tirelessly giving of yourself to the benefit of the Tarrant County Community.

2023 “LEGENDS IN THE MAKING” HONOREE

DR. MARION J. BROOKS

Class, professional excellence, selflessness…these are just a few of the words that describe Dr. Marion J. Brooks. The first honoree for the Living Legends Awards, Dr. Marion J. Brooks is the standard bearer for our Fort Worth legends.

Born on February 15, 1920 to Mr. and Mrs. Roy and Eula Brooks, Marion “Jack” Brooks was raised on the South Side of Fort Worth. Dr. Brooks was a graduate of the 1936 Class of I.M. Terrell High School and would go on to earn degrees from Prairie View A&M College in 1940 and Howard University in 1951. It was on Christmas Day in 1945 that Dr. Brooks took one of the most important steps of his life, marrying then Marie Louise Norris. After obtaining his medical degree from Howard, Marion and Marie Brooks returned to Fort Worth where Dr. Brooks began his medical practice in the Black Business district.

Many in Tarrant County would come to love and respect the man affectionately called “Dr. Jack.” Years later, those who never met Dr. Brooks still feel his impact as his efforts would lead to the integration of Fort Worth’s hospitals. He founded the Sickle Cell Anemia Association of Texas and Tarrant County Precinct Workers Council. Still others would know Dr. Brooks as their Sunday School teacher, as he also helped in the formation of Morningside United Methodist Church. Dr. Brooks found time to be active outside of his practice, including contributions to the McDonald Branch YMCA, Free and Accepted Masons-Prince Hall, Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce, the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and NAACP to name a few.

His memory and legacy march on.

LIFT EVERY VOICE AND SING

Words by James Weldon Johnson

Music by John Rosamond Johnson

Lift every voice and sing, Till earth and heaven ring, Ring with the harmonies of Liberty; Let our rejoicing rise High as the listening skies, Let it resound loud as the rolling sea.

Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us, Sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us; Facing the rising sun of our new day begun, Let us march on till victory is won.

Stony the road we trod, Bitter the chastening rod, Felt in the days when hope unborn had died; Yet with a steady beat, Have not our weary feet Come to the place for which our fathers sighed?

We have come over a way that with tears has been watered. We have come, treading our path through the blood of the slaughtered, Out from the gloomy past, Till now we stand at last Where the white gleam of our bright star is cast.

God of our weary years, God of our silent tears, Thou who hast brought us thus far on the way; Thou who hast by Thy might, Led us into the light, Keep us forever in the path, we pray.

Lest our feet stray from the places, our God, where we met Thee, Lest our hearts, drunk with the wine of the world, we forget Thee; Shadowed beneath Thy hand, May we forever stand, True to our God, True to our native land.

WILLIS L. LONZER, III, Ph.D. GENERAL PRESIDENT

JERAMAINE O. NETHERLY REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT

May 31, 2023

SEAN MCCASKILL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

DARRIN O. NIXON, JR. REGIONAL ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT

Dear Members of the Beta Tau Lambda Charitable Foundation, Brothers of the Beta Tau Lambda Chapter, Living Legend Awardees and Guest:

As the Southwestern Regional Vice President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, I extend my heartfelt greetings to each of you in attendance and those that support the 29th Annual Dr. Marion J. Brooks Living Legends Awards!

In its 29th celebration, the Living Legends Awards have recognized those that have made significant contributions to the greater Tarrant County community. This celebration also honors the fifth class of Legends in the Making!

To the Living Legends and Legends in the Making, our enduring efforts in Tarrant County are unprecedented and we thank you and honor you tonight! To the brothers of the Beta Tau Lambda Chapter, and Beta Tau Lambda Charitable Foundation, the leadership of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated and the Southwestern Region commend and thank you for your dedicated service. Your commitment to the community and Alpha is evident in the tireless manner in which you bring to fruition our fraternity's motto of “First of All, Servants of all, We shall transcend all.”

Again, I salute you and wish you an enjoyable evening!

Fraternally,

Jeramaine O. Netherly

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated Southwestern Regional Vice President

Willis L. Lonzer III, Ph.D. General President Sean L. McCaskill Executive Director

To My Brothers of Beta Tau Lambda,

Derrell R. Robinson Texas District Director Joshua Sowell Texas Assistant District Director

It is with pride that I bring greetings to you as the 18th District Director for the Texas Council of Alpha Chapters of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Congratulations to the Brothers of Beta Tau Lambda on your 29th ANNUAL DR. MARION J. BROOKS LIVING LEGENDS AWARDS. For the past 83 years the brothers of Beta Tau Lambda have been a shining light in the Fort Worth community and exemplify the Aims of our fraternity, “Manly Deeds, Scholarship and Love for All Mankind”.

Congratulations to this year’s honorees: Hon. Dr. Barbara Odom-Wesley, Health Education, Dr. John Barnett, Jr., Medicine and Philanthropy, and Dr. Arlene Barnett, Medicine and Philanthropy. Legends in the Making Honorees: Ms. Kandice Boutte, Government, Mr. Ty Stimpson, Esq., Law, and Mrs. Crystal Brown, Health.

The leadership of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and the District of Texas commend the brothers of Beta Tau Lambda for setting the standard. Congratulations again to the honorees and their efforts to uplift the Tarrant County community. Best of luck on a successful event.

Fraternally,

Derrell R. Robinson

18th Texas District Director

2022-2023 Officers

Adrian J. Gray President

James Hampton* Vice President

Frank J. Johnson* Recording Secretary

Jamal Williams

Corresponding Secretary

Donovan Thompson Financial Secretary

Jesse L. Alston* Treasurer

Derek Hammonds Chaplain

Julian Hobdy Intake Coordinator

Reginald Robinson Historian

Glen L. Harmon Assoc. Editor of “The Sphinx”

George Ramsey Dir. of Educational Activities

Joshua Rivers Sergeant-At-Arms

Titus Ross

Parliamentarian

Jay Corzine*

Immediate Past President

June 16th, 2023

On behalf of the Beta Tau Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., affectionately known as FortWorth’sFavorite Frat, we proudly welcome you to the 29th Annual Dr. Marion J. Brooks Living Legends Awards. Honoring the name of the late great Dr. Jack, a Beta Tau Lambda, Fort Worth, Tarrant County and Texas legend, we continue the mission to which this great program was established recognizing the icons of our community.

This year’s 29th class of Living Legends and 5th class of Legends in the Making prove once again that there is no shortage of legendary contributors in the Tarrant County Community. We are happy to recognize the outstanding contributions made in the areas of Medicine, Health, Law, Education and Government.

To our Living Legends, Dr. John Barnett, Dr. Arlene Barnett and Dr. Barbara OdomWesley, special thanks to you for your service with excellence over the span of decades with work still yet to be done.

To our Legends in the Making, Ms. Kandice Bhoutte, Mrs. Crystal Brown and Attorney Ty Stimpson with already so much accomplished we believe your best is still yet to come and encourage you as you continue to blaze trails in Tarrant County and beyond.

We thank you the community for your continued support of this program. Let it continue in years to come to be a reflection of the expression, we lift as we climb.

May God bless you.

*Life Member

Regards,

Adrian J. Gray

Adrian J. Gray,

Esq.

Chapter President

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Beta Tau Lambda Chapter

It is with great pleasure that I welcome you to the 29th Annual Dr. Marion J. Brooks' Living Legends Awards as we recognize and honor Dr. Barbara Odom-Wesley, Dr. John Barnett, Jr., and Dr. Arlene Barnett. In addition, we are honored to present Ms. Kandice Boutte, Ty Stimpson, Esq., and Crystal Brown as Legends in the Making. We celebrate their achievements and the values they embody the importance of integrity, dedication, and tireless pursuit of excellence. Their lifetime of work is a testament to the power of hard work, passion, and a relentless pursuit of one's dreams. These individuals have left their thumbprints on Tarrant County, and their legacy will continue to inspire future generations. Their achievements remind us that we all have the potential to make a difference and a lasting impact.

Beta Tau Lambda Charitable Foundation (BTLCF) is a not-for-profit organization that aims to develop and enhance the lives of young males living in Greater Fort Worth, through programs that develops tomorrow's leaders by promoting academic excellence while providing mentorship, service, and advocacy. Our programs directly respond to the need for positive role models in unrepresented communities. Our Mission is to offer life-enriching programs and seminars focused on effecting social change:

• Alpha Academy: our mentoring program provides a safe, nurturing environment for young men (5th – 12th grade) to learn life skills and improve self-worth through guided activities and workshops.

• Alpha Beautillion: recognizes high school seniors who have demonstrated achievement in academics, arts, and leadership in their communities and provides these young men with the tools and resources to succeed in their endeavors toward higher education.

As a 501(c)(3), we depend on our communities and corporate sponsors' engagement and generosity. We welcome your support of our organization by recommending young men to participate in Alpha Academy and Alpha Beautillion; or donating to the following site: https://btlcf.square.site. Only with your help can we continue to provide the required level of support these young men need and deserve.

Thank you for joining us today and for considering donating to our organization. For more information on our programs, please email info@btlcffw.org.

Thank you,

Dr.Ty Guy President

Beta Tau Lambda Charitable Foundation

Beta Tau Lambda Charitable Foundation, Inc.

501(c)(3) Not-for-Profit Organization

www.btlcffw.org

DearEsteemedGuests,

OnbehalfoftheBetaTauLambdaChapterofAlphaPhiAlphaFraternityIncorporated,itiswith greatpleasureandhonorthatIwelcomeyoutothe2023Dr.MarionJ.BrooksLivingLegends Awards.Thisprestigiousevent,nowinits29thyear,servesasabeaconofrecognitionfor communityexcellenceacrossvariousfields.Wearehumbledtocontinuethestronglegacyof excellenceestablishedbytheNationalMulticulturalWesternHeritageMuseumandtochampion thisremarkableoccasion.

TheLivingLegendsAwardshasbeenaninvaluableplatformforcelebratingoutstandingindividuals whohavemadesignificantcontributionstoourcommunity.Itisthroughtheirtirelessefforts, unwaveringdedication,andexceptionalachievementsthattheyhavebecometruelegendsamong us.Thisyear,wegathertopaytributetotheseexceptionalindividualsandhonortheirremarkable journeys.

WearethrilledtohostthiseventatthePalmwoodEventCenter,locatedintheheartofdowntown FortWorth,whichprovidesaluxurioussettingthatperfectlycomplementsthegrandeurofthis specialoccasion.Theelegantsurroundingsandunparalleledservicewillensureanunforgettable eveningforallattendees.

Inadditiontorecognizingourlivinglegends,theBetaTauLambdaChapteriscommittedto supportingtheeducationandfuturesuccessofourlocalyouth.Asapartofourongoingefforts,we areexcitedtoawardascholarshiptoadeservinghighschoolorcollegestudent.Byinvestinginthe educationofourfutureleaders,westrivetomakealastingimpactonthecommunityweholddear.

Weextendourwarmestwelcomeasyoujoinusincelebratingtheseextraordinaryindividualsand towitnesstheinspiringstoriesthathaveshapedtheirlives.Together,wecanhonortheir achievements,recognizetheirinvaluablecontributions,andcreateanatmosphereofappreciation andadmiration.

Congratulationstoallthehonorees,andthankyouforyourcontinuedsupportandpresenceatthis remarkableevent.

Warmestregards,

Bro.SaJadeJ.Miller EventChair Dr.MarionJ.BrooksLivingLegendsAwards

PROGRAM

Mistress of Ceremonies- Brittney Johnson

Greetings Brittney Johnson

Invocation Bro. DK Hammond, BTL Chaplin

Musical Selection ‘Lift Every Voice’- Bro. Jock Lewis

Welcome/Occasion Bro. Frank J. Johnson, BTL Chapter Vice President Elect

Special Congratulations Hon. Mattie Parker, Mayor- City of Fort Worth

Recognition of Elected Officials, Dignitaries and Past Honoree Brittney Johnson

2023 LIVING LEGENDS PRESENTATION

Dr. Barbara Odom-Wesley (Health Education)

Dr. John L. Barnett, Jr. (Medicine and Philanthropy)

Dr. Arlene S. Barnett (Medicine and Philanthropy)

2023 LEGENDS IN THE MAKING PRESENTATION

Kandice Boutté (Government)

Ty Stimpson, Esq. (Law)

Crystal V. Brown (Health)

2023 SCHOLARSHIPS & AWARDS

Bro. Kerven W. Carter, Jr. Scholarship

Ashanti Monique Memorial Scholarship

BTL Chapter Recognitions

presented by Bro. Jamal C. Williams

BTL Scholarship Committee Chair

presented by the Austin Family

presented by Bro. Adrian J. Gray, Esq.

BTL Chapter President

Special Acknowledgements & Closing Remarks Bro. SaJade Miller, Living Legends Event Chair

Benediction Bro. Patrick Winfield, Pastor- The Potter’s House Fort Worth

2023 LIVING LEGENDS MISTRESS OF CEREMONIES

Brittney Johnson

Brittney Johnson is an award-winning journalist who joined NBC DFW in September 2021 as co-anchor of NBC 5 News at 10 p.m. Monday through Friday. She was born in Dallas, Texas and spent part of her childhood in Little Rock, Arkansas before her family moved to Charlotte, North Carolina.

Brittney started her journalism career as a staff writer and section editor at The Hilltop newspaper during her time as an undergraduate at Howard University. Johnson went on to earn her master’s degree at the University of California at Berkeley’s Graduate School of Journalism. She also worked as a health reporting fellow for The Washington Post.

Prior to joining DFW, Johnson worked for six years in Charlotte, North Carolina where she anchored the market’s top-rated morning newscasts and delivered in-depth and investigative stories on the affordable housing crisis, mental health, and the foster care system.

As a result of her work, she has received several Emmy nominations and awards from the Associated Press. in addition, she was also named 2019 Anchor of the Year by the North Carolina Association of Broadcasters (NCAB) and Anchor Team of the Year for 2019 and 2020 by the Radio Television Digital News Association of the Carolinas (RTDNAC).

She is a fitness enthusiast who has run several marathons, practices yoga and enjoys indoor cycling. Johnson also enjoys mentoring and serving the community. She has served as a coach for Girls on the Run, volunteered and hosted bone marrow registry drives for Be The Match, and tutored children as a reading buddy. Furthermore, she is also a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. and the National Association of Black Journalists.

June 16, 2023

Dear Honorees,

It is my pleasure to congratulate you on your outstanding stewardship and contributions in Fort Worth and throughout Tarrant County. Your excellent work as civic and community leaders deserves to be recognized at the 29th Annual Dr. Marion J. Brooks Living Legend Award Ceremony. I congratulate you on your achievements and thank you for your leadership.

The 2023 “Living Legends” and “Legends In The Making” honorees have proven to be an upstanding class of community icons. Your professions and projects are a great asset to the region and beyond.

Living Legends:

Dr. Barbara Odom-Wesley (Health Education)

Dr. John and Dr. Arlene Barnett (Medicine and Philanthropy)

Legends In The Making:

Ty Stimpson, Esq. (Law)

Kandice Boutte (Government)

Crystal Brown (Health)

All of these honorees are pillars in our community. I commend your stellar advocacy, professionalism, and prioritization of service above self. Your impact is visible for the next generation of legends and will serve as a source of inspiration for all who follow in your footsteps.

Thank you for your continued efforts. I look forward to seeing what is to come and wish you further success.

Sincerely,

Mattie Parker Mayor

Dear Honorees,

Congratulations to Dr. Arlene Barnett, Dr. John Barnett and Dr. Barbara Odom-Wesley on being named Living Legends and to Mrs. Crystal Brown, Ms. Kandice Boutte and Mr. Ty Stimpson, Esq. on being named Legends in the Making. You are all deserving of this rich honor.

Mrs. Crystal Brown, your contributions to the Mansfield community and beyond are felt through the lives you continue to improve. You make this city a better place.

Your storied experience of leadership, volunteerism, and care are the proof of greatness you’ve already achieved in your career and life. I look forward to seeing your continued growth and legend-making. I hope you know you have my full support here at City Hall.

Sincerely,

Mayor Michael Evans

Greetings,

As Tarrant County Commissioner for Precinct One, it is my honor and privilege to welcome you to the 29th Annual Dr. Marion J. Brooks Living Legend Award Ceremony.

The Beta Tau Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. in association with the Beta Tau Lambda Charitable Foundation (BTLCF) will honor outstanding civic and community leaders who have exemplified excellence in their chosen vocation and have provided great service to the community.

This year’s honorees include: Dr. Arlene Barnett, and Dr. John L. Barnett (Medicine & Philanthropy), and Dr. Barbara Odom Wesley (Health Education). In addition to the Living Legend honorees, three Legends in the Making (40 and under) will also be honored. Legend in the Making Honorees include: Ty Stimpson (Law), Kandice Boutte’ (Government), and Crystal Brown (Health).

I applaud those who provide a platform which showcases the immense wealth of talent and spirit of service that resides in Fort Worth, Texas and Tarrant County. Through their years of commitment, these individuals have rightly earned the designation of Living Legends.

Special plans are underway to offer participants a memorable experience. Best wishes for a very enjoyable and successful event.

May God continue to prosper the work of your hands.

Sincerely,

Roy Charles Brooks

Dear Honorees,

Congratulations on being recognized at the 29th Annual Dr. Marion J. Brooks Living Legends Award Ceremony. With this achievement, you join an esteemed class of Legends who have made significant contributions to the City of Fort Worth, Tarrant County, and beyond.

As an honoree of the 2023 class of Living Legends and Legends in the making, you have exemplified excellence in your profession, passion for leadership, and a deep commitment to service - and for that, I say thank you.

I, hereby, recognize each of you for being an awardee at the 29th Annual Dr. Marion J. Brooks Living Legend Award - which is presented to Tarrant County residents who have exemplified excellence in their chosen vocation and provided great service to the community.

Living Legends

Dr. Barbara Odem-Wesley, Health Education

Dr. John Barnett Jr., Medicine and Philanthropy

Dr. Arlene Barnett, Medicine and Philanthropy

Legends in the Making

Ms. Kandice Boutte, Government

Mr. Ty Stimpson, Esq., Law

Mrs. Crystal Brown, Health

As a member of the Beta Tau Lambda chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., I want to personally congratulate you on this honor.

It is with great pride that I commend each of you and encourage you to continue onward and upward!

Sincerely,

Jared Williams, PH.D.

PROGRAM HISTORY

The Renaissance Cultural Center, co-founded by Jim Austin and Tim Grace, Sr. with Gloria Austin as executive director, created the Living Legends Awards and Scholarship program in 1994 as an effort to give public appreciation and recognition to individuals who had dedicated their lives to serving their community. The National Multicultural Western Heritage Museum took the helm of continuing the annual program in 2011, and in 2015 forged relationships with the Fort Worth Library, (Dr. Gleniece A. Robinson, Director) to preserve the document artifacts the museum had gathered regarding Living Legends Award recipients. Alpha Pi Sigma Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. (Dr. Tara C. Reed, President); revamped and reinstated awarding scholarships at the Dr. Marion J. Brooks Living Legends Awards Program.

In 2017, the Beta Tau Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. was asked to facilitate the event in partnership with the National Multicultural Western Heritage Museum for that year’s program held at the downtown Fort Worth Library.

The 2017 Living Legends honorees included:

Brother Dr. Robert T. McDaniel

Bishop Robert Sample

Mrs. Paulette Turner

Mrs. Gwen Barbee

Beginning in 2018, the Fort Worth Alphas took full control of the event and installed the first class of LegendsintheMaking , including Tarrant County Commissioner Devan Allen, Dr. Kelley Mills, Mr. Dante Williams and Mr. Jeremiah Anderson. That same year, the Beta Tau Lambda Charitable Foundation partnered with the Beta Tau Lambda Chapter to further support the awards program

Since 2017, the Dr. Marion J. Brooks Living Legends Awards has been held at Tarrant County College Trinity River Campus (Dr. Sean Madison, President), the Palmwood Event Center and The Petroleum Club. In 2019, the Legends After Dark Awards After Party was added to compliment the program and provide honorees an opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments alongside their peers and loved ones. Program partners have included the National Pan-Hellenic Council of Tarrant County, Alpha Pi Sigma Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., Fort Worth Bridge and the Texas Association of Black Personnel in Higher Education.

DR. MARION J. BROOKS IN THE MAKING

Crystal V. Brown (HEALTH)

Crystal is a native of the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area of North Texas. She serves as the Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at Methodist Mansfield Medical Center in Mansfield, TX. In this role she is focused on service line growth and development, operational efficiency, and patient experience.

Crystal has a strong passion for personal and professional development that has been sharpened with over 20 years of experience in Human Resources, Supply Chain, and Hospital Operations. She is a proud graduate of Texas Woman’s University where she received her Master’s in Business Administration. She is a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives where she serves as the Volunteer Chair for the Women’s Healthcare Executives Network, National Association of Health Services Executives, and serves on the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council Committee for Girls Scouts of Northeast Texas. She is certified in Lean Six Sigma, which has taught her to invest in human capital, eliminate waste, and maximize results.

Crystal has received numerous awards for her transformational leadership style and is passionate about teaching others what she has learned along the way. Through her authentic and down to earth approach, she has the ability to genuinely connect with people and assist them in overcoming obstacles to achieve their boldest career goals.

Kandice S. Boutté (GOVERNMENT)

Kandice Boutté has sixteen years of local government experience leading high-level initiatives, providing strategic guidance to stakeholders, and developing county and city operating budgets. In her current role, as an Assistant County Administrator, she assists the County Administrator with developing, planning, and implementing the goals and objectives of the Tarrant County Commissioners Court. She acts as a sounding board to leadership to ensure county business is conducted in the most efficient and cost-effective manner.

Previously, Kandice served as the Assistant Director of Tarrant County’s Budget and Risk Management Department, where she facilitated the development of the annual operating budget, totaling $904.7 million dollars. Kandice is the first African American to hold each position in the County.

She received her Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from the University of Georgia and her Master of Public Administration from Georgia State University. Kandice is a proud member of International City/County Management Association. A native of Southwest Atlanta, Georgia, Kandice considers the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex her home.

Ty Stimpson (LAW)

Ty Stimpson is a highly regarded North Texas trial attorney and seasoned negotiator, committed to seeking justice and compensation for victims who are suffering due to the negligent or wrongful acts of others. Ty is a lifelong advocate for justice and isn’t afraid to be a voice for those in need.

Ty is a 6th generation Texas native who grew up in Arlington, Texas. After graduating from Baylor University, where he played football, Stimpson attended law school. He received his Juris Doctor degree from Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University and his Master of Laws Degree at St. John’s University School of Law while working with the National Football League.

After law school, Stimpson began his legal career as a prosecutor at the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office, then at the Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office. The wealth of knowledge and experience gained as a chief criminal prosecutor positioned him to pursue civil justice for those who have been wrongfully injured or killed.

As he transitioned to private practice, Stimpson built a reputation for being a go-to personal injury attorney due to his exceptional negotiation and trial skills. He has been named a Top Attorney for Personal Injury by Fort Worth Magazine and 360 West Magazine. He is also a National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 member. Stimpson is a Partner at Varghese Summersett, PLLC where he leads the Personal Injury section of the firm.

When he is not in the office or courtroom, you will find Ty out in the community, giving back in any way he can. Ty serves on numerous boards and is a member of an ever-growing list of amazing organizations, including the Tarrant Area Food Bank, Boys and Girls Club of Greater Tarrant County, LVTRise, L. Clifford Davis Legal Association, Fort Worth Metropolitan Black Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club of Downtown Fort Worth, and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

In his free time, Ty enjoys playing golf, attending sporting events, and spending time with family. Ty is married to his beautiful wife Jordan, who is also an attorney in Fort Worth. The couple is blessed with a daughter, Wyatt Frances, and their Goldendoodle, “Ro.”

2023 LIVING LEGEND (MEDICINE & PHILANTHROPY)

John L. Barnett, Jr., DDS

Dr. John L. Barnett, Jr. is a native of Fort Worth, Texas graduating from Paul Laurence Dunbar High School in 1966. He earned a BS from Howard University in 1970; a DDS from Howard University Dental School in 1975; and a Specialty Certificate in Pediatric Dentistry from Howard University Dental School in 1978. While at Howard Dental School, Dr. Barnett met and married the love of his life, Dr. Arlene S. Barnett in 1976.

After completing his dental training, Dr. Barnett started his practice in New Orleans, Louisiana in 1978 becoming the first African American to establish a Pediatric Dental Practice in the state of Louisiana. Drs. Barnett established Barnett Dental Group in 1984 as a multi-specialty group.

Following the devastation of New Orleans by hurricane Katrina in 2005, Dr. Barnett moved back to his native Fort Worth and established Kids Stop Dental Care with his wife Dr. Arlene Barnett in 2007.

Dr. Barnett has served as the President of the Pelican State Dental Association, President of the Louisiana Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and Chairman of the Medicaid Task Force for the Louisiana Dental Association. He also has held the position of Associate Professor at LSU School of Dentistry and Adjunct Professor at Xavier University College of Pharmacy.

Dr. Barnett is a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity and an ordained Baptist Minister. He presently serves as Chairman, Fort Worth African American Museum and Cultural Center and is a Board memberelect of the Rotary Club of Fort Worth.

Dr. Barnett is committed to his health through jogging, weight training, nutrition and yoga. He has completed six marathons in his running career. Dr. Barnett and his wife, Dr Arlene Barnett have three children; Airin, John III (Harmony) and Nathaniel as well as three grandchildren; Cadence, John IV and Aria.

LIVING LEGEND (MEDICINE & PHILANTHROPY)

Arlene S. Barnett, DDS

Dr. Arlene Slade Barnett is a native of Newark, New Jersey. She graduated with honors from Weequahic High School. She attended Bennett College in Greensboro, North Carolina. She attended summer research programs at Fisk University, Meharry Medical College, and the Medical College of Georgia. Focused on a career in dentistry, Arlene applied and received early acceptance to Howard University College of Dentistry at age 20. She was active in the HU Student National Dental Association and Howard's community "Helping Hands" initiatives and worked nights as a residential counselor at a state-assisted home for displaced children for three years.

Arlene Barnett graduated with a Doctor of Dental Surgery from Howard University in 1977. She completed her Northeast Regional Boards in August 1977 and began practicing dentistry at the Butler Pediatric Dental Clinic in Washington, DC. While at Howard Dental, Arlene met and married Dr. John L Barnett Jr. in 1976. They are the proud parents of three children; all are graduates of Historically Black Colleges. She hopes the same for her three grandchildren.

The Drs. Barnett moved to New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1979 and co-founded the Barnett Dental Group.

Dr. Barnett served six years in the United States Navy Reserve as Captain. She was the first Female Chief Dental Officer at the New Orleans Naval Base and the First African American Female Dental Officer to be dual assigned to the U.S. Airforce Elite Dental Unit at Barksdale Airforce Base in Shreveport, Louisiana. She was also the first African American Female Director of the Shreveport Cooper Road Medical/Dental Community Health Care Clinic.

Dr. Arlene Barnett served as President of the New Orleans Dental Society, V.P. Pelican (LA) State Dental Society, National Dental Association Board of Trustees, and National Dental Association Membership Chair. Served on Louisiana's first Children's Health Insurance Plan Task Force (CHIPs), traveled on international medical/dental missions and served on the New Orleans Symphony Board. She began fundraising for the United Negro College Fund and Howard University College of Dentistry.

They transitioned to Fort Worth after Hurricane Katrina in 2006. She Co-Founded Kids Stop Dental of Fort Worth and continued her involvement in civic and community service organizations. She is a Life Member of the NAACP, a Past President of the Crescent City (LA) Chapter, and a Past President of the Fort Worth (TX) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated. She successfully Graduated with three "Legacies" in Jack & Jill of America at New Orleans (LA) and Fort Worth (TX) Chapters. A member of the MOLES and CHUMS social organizations. Dr. Barnett is Chair of the Ambassador's Council of the Amon Carter Museum of American Art. She is a Board member of the Multicultural Alliance and the Fund Development Committee member of the FW African American Museum & Cultural Center. She worked to establish the United Negro College Fund Scholarship Endowment for Tarrant County Students. She is a Co-Founder of the Tarrant County Education Foundation, a 501(c)(3) scholarship and arts in education organization.

(HEALTH EDUCATION)

Hon. Barbara Odom-Wesley

Dr. Barbara Odom-Wesley completed her early education and was raised in Orange, Texas by her parents, Elzie and Ruby Odom. She is the only daughter and oldest child, with one younger brother, Elzie Jr. Her foundation for service to others was established in this small Texas town with roots and values from the Freedman’s community of Shankleville.

After graduating from the segregated High School with honors, she earned the B.S. degree In Medical Record Administration at Incarnate Word College in San Antonio, TX. Odom earned an M.A. in multidisciplinary studies (Business Management, Political Science & Health Care) at IWC. She remained in San Antonio working for Bexar County Hospital District and returned to her Alma Mater to lead the Health Information Management department.

Barbara relocated to Arlington, TX in 1980 to accept the HIM department head position at Texas Woman’s University. She earned a PhD in Health & Family Science there and achieved tenured status as a full professor. Dr. Odom-Wesley retired from TWU after 25 years. Additionally, she taught at UTA as an adjunct professor in Health Care Administration and started her consulting business, MedPro Services. However, she was called back into a full-time academic appointment at DeVry University. She established, earned accreditation and directed the Health Information Technology Program for ten years and retired in 2015. As an educator, Dr. Odom-Wesley mentored, enlightened and fostered a path for countless students. One of her great joys today is to see the accomplishments of her graduates.

Throughout her 50-year career, she was active in professional organizations, serving in many volunteer positions culminating with president of the San Antonio, Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas statewide, and only the second African-American elected as president of the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). She contributed to the Body of Knowledge for the profession with her groundbreaking research and dissertation on Consumer Informatics: Development of a model for Family Medical Records. She conducted workshops across the country and internationally for the International Federation of Health Information Management Organizations. She has authored over 100 articles on various HIM topics and two textbooks: Medical Record Handbook for Physicians’ Offices and Guidelines for Medical Record Documentation. She shared her extensive knowledge by serving on multiple advisory boards including United Way, Texas Health Resources, Arlington Memorial Hospital, Home Health Services of Dallas, and educational institutions as an accreditation surveyor. As she retired, she received the AHIMA Educator Award: Making Dreams Come True. She received the “Key to the City” of Orange, Texas when she spoke at her 40th High School Class Reunion.

Today, Dr. Odom-Wesley is an emeritus member and Fellow for AHIMA. Alongside her professional service, she has been active in service to the community, blessing others. She is a life member of the NAACP and serves on the executive board, as health committee co-chair. When she moved to Arlington and found no chapter of her beloved Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, she led the effort to establish a chapter and became the chartering president.

Today, she is a 56-year Golden and Life member of AKA and the Arlington chapter has grown to over 400 strong. She has been recognized by the sorority as Woman of the Year and Business leader of the Year. The Arlington Graduate chapter established a scholarship in her honor, The Spirit of Achievement. She is a charter member of the MLK Celebration Committee in Arlington. She has always served in her church in a variety of capacities and favors the Married Couples’ Ministry.

With her passion for service, she extended her purpose, preparation and expertise to serve as an elected public official. She followed her father’s footsteps, Elzie Odom, Arlington’s first African American elected to the City Council and then as Mayor. Dr. Odom-Wesley is the first Black female elected to the Arlington City Council, and serves as the District 8 representative, At Large. First elected in 2019, she was re-elected in 2021 and recently elected to her third and final 3-year term concluding in 2026. She also serves as Deputy Mayor Pro Tempore. On Council she has focused on eliminating disparities and building unity in Arlington. She is chair of the Municipal Policy Committee, Secretary for the Arlington Tomorrow Foundation, representative to regional transportation coalitions and Vice-Chair for the National League of Cities’ Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She represents Arlington on the Tarrant County Homeless Coalition and the United Way Steering Committee. Her priorities going forward include: Promote Healthy Communities and enhance regional mobility.

This March, Dr. Odom-Wesley and her husband, Curtis, celebrated 40 years of marriage. They are parents of three adult children: Krystal James of New Orleans, Clifton & Veonicca Wesley of Madison, Alabama and Amber James of Atlanta. They have one grandchild, Elizabeth Wesley. Barbara’s motivation for this legendary life comes from I Corinthians 4:2, “To whom much is given, much is required.”

2022 Jesse Gaines Law

2020-2021

2019

PA STAWARD RECIPIENTS

Pastor William T. Glynn Religion

Sarah Walker Community Service

Pamela Dunlop Gates Law & Community Service

Deborah Peoples Politics

2018 Deralyn Riles Davis Civic Service

2017 Dr. Robert T. McDaniel* Education

2016 Sherry Branch-Breed Education

2015 Jennifer G. Brooks, Ed.D. Education

2014 Dennis L. Dunkins, Sr. Education

2013

2012

Gleniece Robinson, Ph.D. Education

Kerven W.Carter, Jr. Education

2011 Walter Dansby Education

2010 Norma Roby Business

2009 Jefferson Davis, Jr. Education

2008 William T. Slater, Ph.D. Education

2007 Maxwell C. Scarlett, M.D. Medicine

2006 T.A. Sims Education

2005 Rudy Eastman* Arts/Entertainment

Dwight Ruddock Medicine

Bishop Robert L. Sample Religion

Alcee Chriss, Sr. Public Service

Joseph Faust Public Service

Erma Bonner-Platte Arts & Culture

Robert C. LeGrand, Jr. Sports

Willie B. Jones Education

Charles Langham, M.D. Medicine

Willis Johnson Communication

Rhonda Pruitt Communication

Dollie Gentry Health

Willie Criss Sports

Bob Ray Sanders Communication

Loraine Miller Politics

June Davis Education

Mattie Compton, Esq. Law

Paulette Turner Business

Ray Reed Entertainment

Gary Randle Community Service

Alene Washington Community Service

Margaret Faust Community Service

Clarence J. Brooks, M.D.* Medicine

Viney Chandler Community Service

Vivian Lewis Wells Community Service

Pearl Hunt Community Service

Claude R. Platte* Community Service

Hazel F. Wilson Community Service

Allene Jones* Health

Donald R. Walker Civic Service

Estrus Tucker Community Service

Rev. Ralph W. Emerson Religion

Gwen Barbee Community Service

Gwendolyn Morrison, Ph.D Community Service

Gyna Bivens Government

Martha Singleton Toombs Business

Johnnie L. Young Government Devoyd Jennings Business

Roy C. Brooks Government

Judge Wayne Salvant Government

Bertha Whatley Government

Franklin D. Moss, Sr. Government/Politics

Judge Louis Sturns Government/Politics

Ornette Coleman* Music

Glenn O. Lewis Government/Politics

Clayton Mitchell* Music

Maurice Lee Barksdale Business

Rev. Albert E. Chew, Jr.* Religion

Quintin Robinson Sports

John A. Gales, Sr. Sports

Willie O. Lawson, Sr. Business

Roosevelt Burrell, Jr. Business

Nancy W. Sims Business

Bob Terrell Government/Politics

Charmion Polk Community Service

Christine Moss Education Orville Person Business

Elzie Odom, Sr. Government/Politics

PAST AWARD RECIPIENTS

DR. MARION J. BROOKS LIVING LEGENDS AWARDS

2023 NOMINATIONS COMMITTEE

SABRINA CONNER

GLEN HARMON

PAMELA DUNLOP-GATES, ESQ.

SAJADE MILLER

PAULETTE TURNER

TRACY WILLIAMS

RODERICK MILES

JAMAL WILLIAMS

JIM AUSTIN

ADRIAN J. GRAY, ESQ.- CHAIRMAN

BETA TAU LAMBDA CHAPTER

TARRANT COUNTY LEADERSHIP

Brother Roy Charles Brooks – Tarrant County Commissioner Precinct 1

Brother Michael Evans – Mayor, City of Mansfield

Brother Jared Williams, Ph.D. – Fort Worth City Councilmember

Brother Quinton Phillips – Fort Worth ISD School Board Trustee

Brother Leonard Hornsby – Tarrant County College Board Trustee

Brother Daryl R. Davis, II – Crowley ISD School Board Trustee

Brother Sean Madison, Ed.D. – President, Tarrant County College Trinity River

Brother Glenn O. Lewis, Esq. – Board Chairman, Texas Wesleyan University

Congratulations! May you be proud of the work you have done, the person you are and the difference you are making. Your 4-year-old self would be so proud of the man you’ve become, and so am I.

- Jordan Rolfe Stimpson

- Theo and Janice Rolfe

I’m so proud of you and thankful for all the amazing things you do.

-

Wyatt Frances Stimpson

Congratulations, Son, on being a recipient of the 2023 Dr. Marion J. Brooks Living Legend Award!

I am so honored to be able to witness the impact that you are making on our society!

From a small child, I knew that you were destined for greatness!

Congratulations again, Linda Stimpson "AKA, Mama"

BTL LIVING LEGENDS PROGRAM COMMITTEE

Sajade Miller, Chairman

Lewis Alston

Frank J. Johnson

Rodney Johnson

Lynden Marshall

Glen L. Harmon

Na’Im Moses- After Dark Chairman

Lewis Alston

Jay Corzine

Brenton Flowers

Rodney Johnson

Special thanks to Shantelle Gray (Event Decor)

VENDORS

Program design by Shantelle Gray, Impressive Imprints Paperie

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