15th Annual Links Beautillion Sponsors
Emerald Sponsors
Kalo Companies - Jersey Mikes Subs and Slim Chickens
J.P. Moore Mortuary & Cremation Services
Level Four Financial
Gayla Parks - State Farm Insurance
Sara Williams - Attorney at Law
Curriculum Sponsors
Richard Corbett
Genesis Fleming
Grova Creative - Giavona Williams
Sharon Lettman-Hicks
Leon County Foundation - Darryl Jones
Ken and Val Neighbors
Kesha Williams
Louie Williams
Workday
Stephen Wright
In-Kind
Sharon Lettman-Hicks
Capital Outlook
Greetings:
On behalf of the Tallahassee Chapter of the Links, Incorporated, I greet our Beaux, parents, family, extended family, and community stakeholders and welcome you all to our Fifteenth Annual Links Beautillion. We are grateful that you are joining us for this special occasion This event resulted from several months of planning by the committee and preparation by our outstanding participants. It promises to be an unforgettable evening, culminating in the Linda G. Dilworth Beaux of the Year announcement named for Mrs. Linda Dilworth, whose efforts founded the Beautillion.
The Beautillion was established in 2011 during our chapter’s 60th-anniversary celebration of friendship and community service, and we are pleased that we have this opportunity to recognize and support another group of phenomenal leaders through this transformational program. This Beautillion is preceded by several months of educational sessions designed to cultivate positive self-esteem, leadership, cultural pride, and character. Throughout their involvement in the program, the Beaux participated in lifestyle, etiquette, communication, life skills, and several educational programs designed to support the next generation of exceptional leaders. It is our prayer that the memories made and information gleaned from each session allowed each Beau to learn from, grow, and bond with each other.
Our chapter is thrilled to celebrate and recognize the accomplishments of our Beaux. These young men have demonstrated achievements in academics, leadership, sports, the arts, community service and/or church involvement. We proudly recognize the mentoring and training that these young men have completed through the Links Beautillion curriculum-based program. We now announce that they are prepared and ready for their debut and presentation as gentlemen and as our community’s leaders of tomorrow.
We extend our sincere appreciation to the families, friends, businesses and accompanying Attendants who have provided their untiring support to the eleven young men who are being presented during this Beautillion. I also salute the Beautillion Committee, Dr. Sonya Stephens (Chairman) and her team, along with several other Link members and volunteers who have spent countless hours making this event memorable for both the participants and the attendees. I appreciate you for continually giving your time, talent and treasure to the young men who have benefited from our program and to those who are being presented this evening. Thank you for shaping, mentoring and serving in an exemplary manner so that this is a Beautillion season to be remembered by all.
Congratulations to these outstanding young leaders and thanks again to all who have joined us for this evening of recognition and celebration. Your investment in supporting this program is to be commended!
Yours in Service,
Ms. Kimberly Hankerson, President
March 2, 2025
Dear Tallahassee Chapter of the Links, Incorporated and Honored Beaux:
Commendations and congratulations are in order on the debut and formal presentation of the Fifteenth Annual Links Beautillion! I am so proud of your organization and the participating Beaux. Much is to be said and long remembered regarding the achievements of the Beautillion participants and your success stories demonstrated in areas of academics, leadership, community service, church involvement, the arts and/or sports.
Community leaders and citizens of Tallahassee look forward to your continued preparation to accept the reigns of leadership as our future leaders. Your participation in and completion of the Links Beautillion program has introduced you to many of our national, state and local decision-makers and your lofty goals, ambitions and educational pursuits are indeed lauded throughout the Tallahassee community.
I congratulate Gabriel Brown, Ayden B. Cromer, Dylan Davis, Elijah Edwards, Gedalyah H. Fletcher, Darius Vincent Jones II, Arthur Lawson III, Kellen Menchion, Mekhi Aden Tyler, Antawon Williams and Jeremiah Williams. Your experience as a Beau is worthy of this community’s admiration and applause. You serve as an example for high school seniors to follow. On behalf of the City of Tallahassee and its citizens, I salute you as you have accepted and demonstrated your commitment to leadership, character, high ideals and purposes. Best wishes to you on this, your evening of debut as gentlemen, and also on your service to this community and society as a whole. Do remember my challenge to each of you as I expect to witness you, as future leaders, building a better future for this world.
John E. Dailey
Mayor
Congratulations Darius Jones II
2025 Linda G. Dilworth Beau of the Year
2025 Links Beautillion Excellence Awards
The Tallahassee (FL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated
2025 Beautillion Committee
Attendants
Attendants
Attendants
The 15th Annual Tallahassee (FL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated Beautillion
Formal Presentation of Beaux
PROGRAMME
Master of Ceremonies – Sean Pittman, Esq.
Beau Kellen Menchion
Beau Antawon Williams
Beau Elijah Edwards
Beau Dylan Davis
Beau Arthur Lawson III
Beau Darius Vincent Jones II
Blessing of the Beaux
Beau Jeremiah Williams
Beau Gabriel Brown
Beau Ayden B. Cromer
Beau Mekhi Aden Tyler
Beau Gedalyah Fletcher
Bishop Julius H. McAllister, Jr. Presiding Prelate, Ninth Episcopal District, African Methodist Episcopal Church
Welcome and Occasion
Dr. Sonya A. F. Stephens Beautillion Chair
Entertainment Strikers Dance Troupe
Waltz Led by Former Mayor and Mrs. John Marks, III Beaux, Mothers, and Attendants
Grace Bishop Julius H. McAllister, Jr. Dinner is Served
Griot’s Rites of Passage Message
Special Remarks
Special Acknowledgements
Special Recognition
Beautillion Awards and Recognitions
Remarks
Attorney Fred H. Flowers Flowers Law, LLC
Honorable Darryl E. Jones
Member Leon County School Board, District 3
Dr. Sonya A. F. Stephens
Mr. Ayden Palucha
2024 Linda G. Dilworth Beau of the Year
Attorney Opal McKinney-Williams
Tallahassee (FL) Chapter of The Links, Treasurer
Ms. Kimberly Hankerson
Tallahassee (FL) Chapter of The Links, President
The Grand Finale
Gabriel Brown
Beau Gabriel Jon Brown, affectionately known as Gabe, is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Jon and Letitia Brown and the brother to two siblings. He is an active member of Bethel AME Church, where he participates in the Christmas Programs, church school, and provides audio support for the multimedia ministry.
A senior at Leon High School and dual-enrolled at Tallahassee State College, Beau Gabriel has earned an unweighted high school cumulative GPA of 3.1296. He plans to attend the University of West Florida, majoring in Theater Design and Technology.
Beyond his academic achievements, Beau Gabriel is an accomplished musician and theater enthusiast. He has been a three-year member of Capital Singers and a two-year member of Madrigals, where he serves as the Bass Section Leader for both groups. He is also a three-year member of the acapella chorus, Mane Event, and has been part of the Technical Theatre Class at Leon for three years.
Beau Gabriel is committed to his community and civic responsibilities. He has been a member of the Tallahassee Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. for the past twelve
years, serving in various leadership roles, including Chaplain, Treasurer, Vice President, and currently President of the Teen Group. He has also served as a House and Senate Page in the Florida Legislature, where he was voted Pro Tem in the Senate. Additionally, Gabe has been a member of the Distinguished Young Gentlemen of America, Inc. for two years.
Beau Gabriel aspires to become a lighting designer. Courtney Stokes is his attendant. Beau Gabriel’s guiding quote for life is, “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” – Wayne Gretzky.
Ayden Cromer
Beau Ayden B. Cromer, is the son of Mr & Mrs. Keith and Shaunda Rodgers and Mr. Adam Cromer, and the brother to 11 siblings. He is an active member of New St. Johns AME Church.
A FAMU Developmental Research School senior, Beau Ayden maintains an impressive unweighted high school cumulative GPA of 3.6604. He plans to attend Florida A&M
University and major in Physical Therapy.
Outside the classroom, Beau Ayden is an accomplished varsity athlete who plays basketball and baseball. He was also an escort for the Royal Court during the 202324 school year and is involved in the National Beta Club and JROTC.
His community involvement is significant, as he partic-
ipated in events such as Judge Tiffany Baker’s campaign, local sandbag distribution during storm season, and serving in the Color Guard with JROTC during local parades.
Beau Ayden aspires to become a Physical Therapist. Kyla Williams is his attendant. Beau Ayden’s guiding quote for life is “Stack or Starve,” reflecting his determination and work ethic.
Dylan Davis
Beau Dylan Ali Davis, affectionately known as Dyl, is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Dineka and Kristopher Davis and the brother to four siblings. He is an active member of New Life Ministries in Quincy, FL, where he serves as the youth director and is deeply involved in church activities. A senior at Crossroad Academy Charter School and dual-enrolled at Tallahassee State College, Beau Dylan has earned an impressive unweighted high school cumulative GPA of 3.7846. He plans to attend Howard University and major in Political Science and Philosophy.
Outside of the classroom, Beau Dylan is an engaged leader. He serves as the senior class vice president at Crossroad Academy Charter School. He is also a baseball team member and participates in several community and civic organizations. Beau Dylan is a member of Distinguished Young Gentlemen of America, Inc., The National Society of High School Scholars, Boys and Girls Club of America, the Sharon Denise Washington Foundation Advisory Board, Tallahassee State College Talent Search, and
the Show-Off All-Stars Support Team.
Beau Dylan aspires to become a corporate attorney. Raven Simmons is his attendant. Beau Dylan’s guiding scripture for life is Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” He also follows the words of Mahatma Gandhi, “Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.”
Elijah Edwards
Beau Elijah Ezekiel Edwards, affectionately known as Eli, is the son of Dr. Harold and Talethia Edwards and the brother of seven siblings. He is an active member of A Changing Church Ministry, participating in worship services and Bible study.
A senior at SAIL High School and dual-enrolled at Tallahassee State College, Beau Elijah maintains an unweighted high school cumulative GPA of 3.2766. He plans to attend the
University of Florida and major in Mechanical Engineering. Beyond academics, Beau Elijah is a dedicated student-athlete and leader.
He is an Omega Lamplighters National Championship Step Team member, plays for the Rickards Raiders Football and Soccer teams, and is involved in the National Honor Society and the Black Student Association. Beau Elijah also takes his community and civic responsibilities
seriously, actively participating in the National Achievers Society and the City of Tallahassee Police Youth Council.
Beau Elijah aspires to become a Construction Engineer. Elyse Willis is his attendant. Beau Elijah’s guiding scripture for life is 1 John 5:8, “And there are three that bear witness in earth, the Spirit, and the water, and the blood: and these three agree in one.”
Gedalyah Fletcher
Beau Gedalyah Fletcher, affectionately known as Big “G,” is the son of Mr. and Mrs. BJ and Asari Fletcher and the brother to four siblings. He is an active member of Bethel Baptist Church, serving in the youth choir and participating in youth ministry activities.
Beau Gedalyah, a senior at Amos P. Godby High School, maintains an unweighted cu-
mulative GPA of 2.6327. He plans to attend Mississippi State University and major in Kinesiology.
Beyond his academic pursuits, Beau Gedalyah is a dedicated athlete who plays on the varsity football and wrestling teams. He is also committed to his community and participates in various civic activities as a member of the Distinguished
Young Gentlemen of America, Inc.
Beau Gedalyah aspires to become a Physical Therapist. Corrin Hobbs is his attendant. Beau Gedalyah’s guiding scripture for life is Psalm 27:1:
“The Lord is my light, and my salvation; whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?”
GEDALYAH -
WATCHING YOU GROW INTO THE KIND, DRIVEN, AND REMARKABLE YOUNG MAN YOU ARE TODAY HAS BEEN ONE OF OUR GREATEST JOYS. YOUR HEART, WISDOM, AND DETERMINATION SHINE IN EVERYTHING YOU DO, AND WE COULDN’T BE PROUDER.
AS YOU STEP INTO THIS NEW CHAPTER, KNOW THAT YOU ARE DEEPLY LOVED, ENDLESSLY SUPPORTED, AND DESTINED FOR GREATNESS.
WITH ALL OUR LOVE, – MOM, DAD, GABE, WILL, SAHAR AND VICTORIA ❤
GEDALYAH FLETCHER
Darius Jones, II
Beau Darius Vincent Jones, II, affectionately known as DJ, is the son of Ms. Terraca Jones and Mr. Darius Jones and has one sibling. He is an active member of Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church, participating in various activities and programs, including Sunday School, tutoring, children’s church, oratorical competitions, Hallelujah Nights, pumpkin patches, Bible study, and serves as a youth leader.
A senior at James S. Rickards High School, Beau Darius is dual-enrolled at both Tallahassee
State College and Lively Technical College, maintaining an impressive unweighted high school cumulative GPA of 3.79032. He plans to attend the University of Wisconsin, where he intends to major in Business, focusing on Sports Management.
Beyond his academic pursuits, Beau Darius is deeply involved in extracurricular activities. He participates in track and field, swimming, the SGA Royal Court, and is a member of the National Honor Society and a former basketball player.
Beau Darius is also dedicated to community service, actively participating in the Omega Lamplighters Mighty Light Team, food and toy drives, fundraisers, and internships.
Beau Darius desires to become a sports agent or facility manager. Serenity Wiggins is his attendant. Beau Darius’ guiding scripture for life is Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Proverbs 22:6- Train up a child in the way he should go; And when he is old,
he will not depart from it.
Lifelong Member
Beau Darius Jones II
Darius,
Though we live around the globe, you will always have a team of “Aunties” supporting and praying for you. Keep working hard and doing your best.
Love, Eclectic 39 - Spring 1998
Beta Alpha Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Arthur Lawson, III
Beau Arthur Lawson, III, affectionately known as Tre, is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Kelon and Kesha Mack and Mr. Arthur Lawson, Jr., and the brother to three siblings. He is an active member of First Elizabeth Missionary Baptist Church, serving in the Youth Ministry and on the Youth Usher Board.
A senior at Crossroad Academy Charter School, Beau Arthur is dual-enrolled at Tallahassee State College. He maintains an impressive unweighted
high school cumulative GPA of 3.7568 and plans to pursue a college degree in Physical Therapy or Sports Management.
In addition to his academic achievements, Beau Arthur is a well-rounded student-athlete. He plays football and baseball while also serving as the basketball photographer. He is involved in several school organizations, including Senior Beta, FBLA, and Student Government. Beau Arthur is also dedicated to his community, actively participating in
The Alpha Mentoring Program, Distinguished Young Gentlemen of America, Inc., lower school tutoring volunteer, and as a church photographer.
Beau Arthur aspires to become a Physical Therapist. Kaylin Jackson is his attendant. Guided by his faith, Beau Arthur’s life is inspired by the scripture Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.”
ARTHUR LAWSON III
THE FARMS AT TWO EGG PROUDLY CELEBRATES YOUR SELECTION TO PARTICIPATE IN THE LINKS BEAUTILLION, RECOGNIZING YOUR EXCELLENCE IN LEADERSHIP, ACADEMICS, AND COMMUNITY SERVICE. YOUR DEDICATION AND ACHIEVEMENTS ARE TRULY INSPIRING, AND WE WISH YOU CONTINUED SUCCESS IN THIS JOURNEY AND BEYOND!
Kellen Menchion
Beau Kellen Alexander Menchion is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Bryon and Kimberly Menchion and the brother to one sibling. He is an active Bethel Missionary Baptist Church member, serving in the youth ministry, youth choir, and previously the usher board. Kellen frequently presides over and participates in various church programs.
Beau Kellen is a senior at Florida State University School and dual-enrolled at Tallahassee State College. He has maintained an unweighted high school cumulative GPA of 3.2951. He plans to attend Florida A&M University and major
in Business Administration.
Beau Kellen is not just a student but a scholar-athlete excelling both academically and in extracurricular activities. As an honors student, he has completed multiple college courses and placed in the top 10 at the Leon County District Latin Competition. In addition, Beau Kellen is a three-sport athlete, playing football (2022 State Championship Runner-Up and 2023-24 Regional Finalist), track and field, and weightlifting.
He is also deeply committed to his community and civic responsibilities. Beau Kellen is an active
member of The Tallahassee Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., where he serves as the Teen Treasurer and former Legislative Chair. He is also a member of the Tallahassee Kappa League and has completed over 125 hours of community service.
Beau Kellen aspires to become a Chief Marketing Officer. Alani Macon is his attendant. Beau Kellen’s guiding scripture for life is Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
KELLEN MENCHION
THE ICONIC THE ICONIC
Mekhi Tyler
Beau Mekhi Aden Tyler, affectionately known as Mat, is the son of Mr. Johnathan J. Tyler and Ms. Charonica Bell, and the brother to two siblings. He is an active member of both Life in Christ and The Greater Mount Pleasant Church, where he serves in multiple roles including Media Ministry, youth leader, family Bible study, Vacation Bible School, youth advisory team, and Sunday School.
A senior at James S. Rickards High School, Beau Mekhi is dual-enrolled at Florida A&M University, maintaining an un-
weighted high school cumulative GPA of 3.4166. He plans to major in Health Sciences at the University of Central Florida.
Beau Mekhi is dedicated to his academics and extracurricular pursuits. He is a member of the National Honor Society and the James S. Rickards Bowling Team and has been involved in the Florida A&M Trio Program and PE STEM program for five years. He participates in the FAMU Theatre Camp, is a dog breeder, and serves as a youth leader and counselor.
Beau Mekhi is committed to
his community and his academic and personal interests. He actively participates in events such as the Breast Cancer Awareness Walk, Black History Awareness Programs, Bible Brain Bowls, Feeding the Hungry, and Community Clean Up Initiatives throughout Leon and Jefferson counties.
Beau Mekhi aspires to become an anesthesiologist. Zy’Kerria Gee is his attendant. Beau Mekhi’s guiding scripture for life is Psalm 23: “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.”
Antawon Williams Jr
Beau Antawon Williams, Jr., affectionately known as Twan, is the son of Ms. Shunzia Menton and the brother to one sibling. He is an active member of All Nations Church and is currently a senior at Lincoln High School, where he holds an unweighted cumulative GPA of 3.2. Beau Antawon aspires to attend Florida A&M University, majoring in Finance and Accounting.
Beyond his academic pursuits, Beau Antawon is a dedicated leader and community advocate. He serves as the President of the Tallahassee Kappa League and has accumulated over 500 hours of community service. His commitment to giving back is evident through his participation in events like the Back-to-School Giveaway, the community Turkey Drive for Thanksgiving, and the Soul
Santa Gift Giveaway. Beau Antawon has a clear goal of becoming a financial analyst. Kamya Pinnock is his attendant. Beau Antawon lives by the quote “I am the master of my soul” from Invictus by William Ernest Henley, a guiding mantra that reflects his strong sense of determination and self-belief.
Jeremiah Williams
Beau Jeremiah Bruce Williams is the son of Erika Williams and has one brother. He is an active member of Abundant Living Faith Ministries, where he serves as a scripture reader during fellowship services. Currently a senior at James S. Rickards High School, Beau Jeremiah is dual-enrolled at Tallahassee State College, maintaining an unweighted high school cumu-
lative GPA of 3.12. He plans to complete his Associate of Arts degree at TSC before pursuing a degree in Business and Psychology at Florida State University.
Beyond academics, Jeremiah is an entrepreneur at heart. He started baking at 12 and has since perfected a range of treats, including bundt cakes, cookies, cheesecakes, and dessert jars. He frequently
returns to his former schools and church, selling his baked goods at various events. Beau Jeremiah is also committed to his community, actively participating in several community service initiatives. His goal is to one day own and expand a global bakery. Mackenzie Barnes is his attendant. Beau Jeremiah’s life’s motto is, “Lost time is never found again.”
I am so proud of
Congratulations
Jeremiah Williams
For this extraordinary achievement May your future be full of success
Always remember Jeremiah 29:11
For I know the thoughts I think towards you says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a hope and a future
I know that you are destined for great things and I know you will accomplish all of your dreams with all our Love
Mr & Mrs George
Mr &Mrs George
J E R E M I A H
W I L L I A M S
Celebrating your amazing success with joy and pride may this achievement lead to even greater things ahead
Love, The Hawkins
Jeremiah Williams
I am so Proud of you for stepping outside of your box and doing something different. You are an amazing young man that is destine to do amazing things.
The Hawkins
Jeremiah Williams
I am so proud of you and all of your accomplishments. The Lord has great plans for your life
Love you to the moon and beyond
Aunt Sherrina,
President
Kimberly D. Hankerson
Vice President Darice Richard-Mitchell
Recording Secretary
Christine Jenkins
Treasurer Opal McKinney-Williams
Financial Secretary R. Jai Gillum
Corresponding Secretary
Parliamentarian
Sharon G Berrian
Monique Richardson
Program Coordinator Adriane R. Peters
Immediate Past President Alexis Roberts McMillan
Chapter Members
Thyria G. Ansley
Debra D. Austin
Aisha Bailey
Kelley Bolden Bailey
Maura Byrd
Kanesha Scott Cole
Kimberly Austin Crowell
Linda Dilworth
Vanessa Eason
Anita Favors
Clinita A. Ford*
Alumna Members
Cynthia Harris
Chanta Haywood
Christine Jenkins
Delores B. Lawson
Deana Young McAllister
Marcia Allen Owens
Audra Pittman
Penny Ralston
Caranita Rhone
Sonya A. Stephens
Harriet W. Williams
Pamela Baker
Celeste Brickler Hart
Doby Flowers
Loretta Flowers
Leslie Griffin
Mary Henry*
Mary A. Kidd
*Platinum Member
Altha Manning*
Jane Marks
Bertha Flowers Murray
Peggy Quince
Mary Roberts*
Bettye Stevens*