2023 Colorado Springs Chapter Choir GMWA Awards Program Booklet

Colorado Springs Chapter of the Gospel Music Workshop of America, Inc. (GMWA)

Sunday, January 15, 2023, 3pm St. John’s Baptist Church 902 S. Prospect Street Colorado Springs, Colorado 80903

www.elpomar.org

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Greetings from the Chapter Representative January 13th, 2023 I bring you greetings and a warm welcome as Chapter Representative of the Gospel Music Workshop of America, (GMWA), Colorado Springs Chapter.

As I reflect upon the legacy, and proven leadership of the late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., it gives me great pleasure to Chair a program in the remembrance of a fallen foot soldier for Christ. In following the dream, we must continue to strive for unity of all mankind with humility and dare to dream. ”We can do all things through Christ which strengthens us.” Phil 4:13” and our best days are still ahead.

It is my prayer that the steady presence and the influence of our GMWA Chapter through the years have been a source of great comfort, enrichment, and pride in producing the Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration and other community events throughout the year. We are excited and appreciative St. John’s Baptist Church opened their doors for our MLK program.

I wish to express my sincere appreciation to our community of singers who assembled today for this program honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. To my darling husband who supports and encourage me during the long hours of work, I thank God every day for giving me to you, “I love you Lee”. Sit back and get ready for a blessing!

God has given us another chance in 2023 to get it right. Always remember to meet Him in prayer.

God is enough, Evangelist Dr. P.M. Wynn Grove Chapter Representative – Colorado Springs Chapter

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THE STAR SPANGLED BANNER Oh, say can you see, by the dawn ‘s early light, What so proudly we hailed at the twilight’s last gleaming?

Whose broad stripes and bright stars, through the perilous fight, O’er the ramparts we watched, were so gallantly streaming?

And the rockets’ red glare, the bombs bursting in air, Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there.

O say, does that Star-Spangled Banner yet wave O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave?

LIFT EVERY VOICE AND SING

By James Weldon 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 presence Has brought us; Facing the rising sun of a new day begun, Let us march on ‘til victory is won.

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Gospel Music Workshop of America Colorado Springs Chapter Choir

National Anthem “Star Spangled Banner Negro National Anthem

(remain standing)

“Lift Every Voice”

(remain standing)

Invocation Old Testament- Pastor Brandon Shupp, Senior Pastor, Story Church, Colorado Springs New Testament –Pastor Lee Grove, Associate Pastor Higher Level Church, Denver Prayer- Pastor Anthony Grier, Senior Pastor, True Spirit Baptist Church, Colorado Springs Welcome and Acknowledgement of Honored Guests– Kimber Reese Occasion- Martin Luther King, Jr. Observance - Jacqueline Williams Reflection- Pastor Promise Lee, Senior Pastor, Relevant Word Church, Colorado Springs Liturgical Dance – Ms. Blair Smith, True Spirit Baptist Church Choir Selections Presentation of Awards Shirley Chisolm Political Action*Trailblazer*Mary McLeod Bethune Educator* Offering (Special Music) Presentation of Awards Honorary COS GMWA Chapter Choir Chair*Philanthropy*Legacy Introduction of Keynote Speaker- Pastor Jayde Duncan, Senior Pastor, New Life Church MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR., TRIBUTE Keynote Speaker Pastor Paul Nelson, Senior Pastor, The Living Word Bible Church, Colorado Springs Invitation to Christ- Choir Closing Remarks- Evan. Dr. PM Wynn Grove Benediction- Pastor Nelson Benediction 5

Colorado Springs Chapter of GMWA Leadership

Evan. Dr. PM Wynn-Grove President Chapter Representative

Jacqueline Williams Vice-President Assist. Chapter Rep.

Liv McMEarn Executive Administration

Sheila Grumbach Carolyn Johnson Dir. of Opns, Secretary Treasurer Assist. Chapter Rep Assist. Chapter Rep

Kimber Reese Executive Administration

Ministers of Music

Rev. Dennis Mose

Nathaniel Black

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Gospel Music Workshop of America Colorado Springs Chapter, Inc. 200 South Wilcox Street Castle Rock, Colorado 80104 The Gospel Music Workshop of America was founded in 1968 by the King of Gospel Music, the late Rev. James Cleveland; the GMWA is the largest artistic organization of its kind in the world with over 200,000 members in more than 200 chapters in the United States, United Kingdom, the Caribbean, Europe and Asia.

For seven days each August, participants are served a menu of over 100 classes; have an opportunity to hear more than 300 singing groups, choirs, quartets, ensembles and soloists; and witness or participate in activities that are literally scheduled around the clock from 7:00am until 3:00am. The most unique characteristic of GMWA is the theme that has been constant - "Everybody is Somebody" In 2001- National Board Member, Dr. Charles Fold approached P.M. Wynn and asked her if she would become the Chapter Representative for Colorado Springs, Colorado. After much prayer P.M. said," yes, it would be an honor to work with some of the most prestigious, gifted and anointed leaders of our time". Shortly after that conversation she was appointed the Colorado Spring GMWA Chapter Representative. "P.M. has the spiritual impact, leadership ability and commitment that is necessary for a Chapter Representative. When you hear the name, P.M. Wynn you think gospel, and she already has a proven track record in the gospel industry nationally." states Dr. Charles Fold, National Chairperson for all Chapter Representatives.

Board members were selected and the rest was history. The GMWA Colorado Springs Chapter has been busy every since. The only requirement for joining is that you love to sing, learn gospel music and its history. A Chapter is only as good as its' leadership team.

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Continued Historical Facts…

During the course of the next 10 years, the choir spread the gospel through music by means of many venues to include: ¯

Performed at GMWA National Convention in:

Kansas City, Missouri Milwaukee, Wisconsin Dallas, Texas Orlando, Florida Cincinnati, Ohio Tampa, Florida Nashville, Tennessee 2012

2004 2005 2006 2007 2008, 2010 2009, 2011

¯ Hosting MLK Celebrations featuring such Recording Artists as: Heritage Christian Center Minister Jarion Hamm Evangelist Angela Spivey Pastor Van Roberson Evangelist Dorothy Norwood Albertina Walker (Queen of Gospel) Denetria Champ Reverend Timothy Wright Lemmie Battles, Chicago Mass Choir Dottie Peoples- Atlanta, GA Ami Rushes- Los Angeles, CA Moses Tyson – Memphis, TN ¯

Ministering many times at such events as: Arts in the Community collaboration with the CS Chamber Orchestra, 2009, 2010, 2011 Chi Eta Phi, Iota Eta Chapter nursing scholarship fundraiser, May 2010, 2011 Colorado Springs Symphony 2009 Christmas program Democratic Party Banquet with Reverend Al Sharpton The NAACP Freedom Fund Banquet Dedication of the Pueblo Civil Rights Commission at the request of Governor Bill Ritter The Ella Mae Bronson Sickle Cell Banquet The city-wide Juneteenth Celebration The Colorado College Gospel Extravaganza The Colorado College Black History Celebration The Colorado University Black History Program The Colorado Springs Kwanza Celebration Jazz in the park – Colorado Springs -Memorial Park Fort Carson & Air Force Academy Veterans Traveling Memorial Wall – Colorado Springs -Memorial Park Gospel Music Excellence Awards Fort Carson, and Air Force Academy, Blues Under the Bridge – Arcia Park, Colorado Springs Green Falls Mountain- Church in the Wild Woods Annual Summer Musical 2009, 2010, 2011

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¯ Ministering at numerous churches for special programs throughout Colorado Springs and Denver. ¯ Ministering at numerous churches, nursing homes, health fairs, “Get Out the Vote” and many other special programs throughout Southern and Northern Colorado.

GMWA has a membership of 150 individuals. Different nationalities, race, men & women, a variety of religious backgrounds, church and non church affiliations. It’s about learning the gospel and spreading the gospel to all.

The mission of the CS GMWA is as the National organization: to enhance and upgrade the creation and presentation of gospel music throughout the world. To create learning environments for all phases of gospel, sacred, classical and other types of music traditions that are know, recognized and respected throughout the world. To develop programs targeted for youth and adults that teach the principles of Christianity, worship ethics, work ethics, social responsibility and citizenship through the disciplines of gospel music art.

Membership is open to any and everyone who shares our vision and our goal.

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History The Meaning of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday

By Coretta Scott King The Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday celebrates the life and legacy of a man who brought hope and healing to America. We commemorate as well the timeless values he taught us through his example -- the values of courage, truth, justice, compassion, dignity, humility and service that so radiantly defined Dr. King’s character and empowered his leadership. On this holiday, we commemorate the universal, unconditional love, forgiveness and nonviolence that empowered his revolutionary spirit.

We commemorate Dr. King’s inspiring words, because his voice and his vision filled a great void in our nation, and answered our collective longing to become a country that truly lived by its noblest principles. Yet, Dr. King knew that it wasn’t enough just to talk the talk, that he had to walk the walk for his words to be credible. And so we commemorate on this holiday the man of action, who put his life on the line for freedom and justice every day, the man who braved threats and jail and beatings and who ultimately paid the highest price to make democracy a reality for all Americans.

The King Holiday honors the life and contributions of America’s greatest champion of racial justice and equality, the leader who not only dreamed of a color-blind society, but who also lead a movement that achieved historic reforms to help make it a reality.

On this day we commemorate Dr. King’s great dream of a vibrant, multiracial nation united in justice, peace and reconciliation; a nation that has a place at the table for children of every race and room at the inn for every needy child. We are called on this holiday, not merely to honor, but to celebrate the values of equality, tolerance and interracial sister and brotherhood he so compellingly expressed in his great dream for America.

It is a day of interracial and intercultural cooperation and sharing. No other day of the year brings so many peoples from different cultural backgrounds together in such a vibrant spirit of brother and sisterhood.

Whether you are African-American, Hispanic or Native American, whether you are Caucasian or AsianAmerican, you are part of the great dream Martin Luther King, Jr. had for America. This is not a black holiday; it is a peoples' holiday. And it is the young people of all races and religions who hold the keys to the fulfillment of his dream.

We commemorate on this holiday the ecumenical leader and visionary who embraced the unity of all faiths in love and truth. And though we take patriotic pride that Dr. King was an American, on this holiday we must also commemorate the global leader who inspired nonviolent liberation movements around the world.

Indeed, on this day, programs commemorating my husband’s birthday are being observed in more than 100 nations.

The King Holiday celebrates Dr. King’s global vision of the world house, a world whose people and nations had triumphed over poverty, racism, war and violence. The holiday celebrates his vision of ecumenical solidarity, his insistence that all faiths had something meaningful to contribute to building the beloved community.

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The Holiday commemorates America’s pre-eminent advocate of nonviolence --- the man who taught by his example that nonviolent action is the most powerful, revolutionary force for social change available to oppressed people in their struggles for liberation.

This holiday honors the courage of a man who endured harassment, threats and beatings, and even bombings. We commemorate the man who went to jail 29 times to achieve freedom for others, and who knew he would pay the ultimate price for his leadership, but kept on marching and protesting and organizing anyway.

Every King holiday has been a national "teach-in" on the values of nonviolence, including unconditional love, tolerance, forgiveness and reconciliation, which are so desperately-needed to unify America. It is a day of intensive education and training in Martin’s philosophy and methods of nonviolent social change and conflict-reconciliation. The Holiday provides a unique opportunity to teach young people to fight evil, not people, to get in the habit of asking themselves, "what is the most loving way I can resolve this conflict?"

On the King holiday, young people learn about the power of unconditional love even for one's adversaries as a way to fight injustice and defuse violent disputes. It is a time to show them the power of forgiveness in the healing process at the interpersonal as well as international levels.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is not only for. celebration and remembrance, education and tribute, but above all a day of service. All across America on the Holiday, his followers perform service in hospitals and shelters and prisons and wherever people need some help. It is a day of volunteering to feed the hungry, rehabilitate housing, tutoring those who can't read, mentoring at-risk youngsters, consoling the broken-hearted and a thousand other projects for building the beloved community of his dream.

Dr. King once said that we all have to decide whether we "will walk in the light of creative altruism or the darkness of destructive selfishness. Life's most persistent and nagging question, he said, is `what are you doing for others?'" he would quote Mark 9:35, the scripture in which Jesus of Nazareth tells James and John "...whosoever will be great among you shall be your servant; and whosoever among you will be the first shall be the servant of all.” And when Martin talked about the end of his mortal life in one of his last sermons, on February 4, 1968 in the pulpit of Ebenezer Baptist Church, even then he lifted up the value of service as the hallmark of a full life. "I'd like somebody to mention on that day Martin Luther King, Jr. tried to give his life serving others," he said. "I want you to say on that day, that I did try in my life...to love and serve humanity.

We call you to commemorate this Holiday by making your personal commitment to serve humanity with the vibrant spirit of unconditional love that was his greatest strength, and which empowered all of the great victories of his leadership. And with our hearts open to this spirit of unconditional love, we can indeed achieve the Beloved Community of Martin Luther King, Jr.’s dream

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Whose Who PASTOR PAUL P. NELSON (Keynote Speaker-Pastor of the Year) Pastor Paul P. Nelson is the founder and Senior Pastor of the Living word Bible Church. He has Pastoring for ten years and was under the leadership of the late Ralph E. Kelly of Good News Baptist Church.

Pastor Nelson has been in Colorado Springs for 34 years and been in the ministry for 32 years under serve Pastor in the community. He is married to his beautiful wife Estrellita Austin-Nelson. He the father of four children.

One son and three daughters and the grandfather of 15 grandchildren.

He served 7 years in the US ARMY and is a Gulf War veteran.

He graduated from the Nazarene Bible College with a Bachelor's degree in Bachelor of Arts in Ministry Pastoral Ministries 2007.

He was medical retired from the US Postal service in 2019 with 25 years of service.

He is the Criminal Justice Director of the Pikes Peak Southern Christian Leadership Conference under the leadership of the late President Henry D. Allen, Jr. Pastor Nelson serves on the board of the Hillside Community and helped in the Leon Young Park restoration project on Fountain and Corona.

He is a board of director for the Southern Colorado Ministerial Union under the leadership of President Pastor Anthony Bell of Restoration of Life Ministry International.

Pastor Nelson and The Living Word Bible Church was one of 30 churches in Colorado Springs that has participated to donate money in the Salvation Army Restoration Project to house 30 homeless families.

He also participated in the World Vision Program under the leadership of Bishop Thompson (EMBC). That distribute furniture to those in and around the Hillside community and those in need in other community.

Pastor Nelson is a coach for the Parks and Recreation in football for his grandsons in Middle School and coach T-Ball for grandsons in Elementary school.

Pastor Nelson supports COSILOVE, Merge meetings, Pastor engagements.

He shows an unending support for the people.

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Shirley Chisolm Political Activism Award Representative Regina English Congratulations to newly elected Colorado House District 17 Representative Regina English!

Prior to the election, Rep. English demonstrated passion in serving her community and making a meaningful impact, ensuring that we all have a better quality of life and live in healthy, safe, and clean neighborhoods. Regina is an inspiration to us all!

Her life motto is: “Stay Ready, So You Don’t Have To Get Ready.”

Regina currently serves as the Treasurer of the Harrison School District Two Board of Education and Vice-President of the Colorado Black Caucus of School Board Directors. She is a solid, consistent voice for our scholars.

Some would call Regina a pioneer as she has birthed organizations and foundations that have exceeded the status quo.

Education for Regina is paramount for what she has been called to do. Currently working to complete her Doctorate degree in Organizational Leadership on track to become Dr. Regina English in January 2023.

Regina has obtained: Associate's Degree in Chemical Dependency/Drug and Alcohol Counseling Bachelor's Degree Management Master’s Degree in Public Administration

• • •

Regina English is a wife, mother of five, grandmother of ten, and Godmother of four despite a very demanding life. Regina loves spending time with her family, traveling, shopping, playing basketball, fashion modeling, and making others laugh and smile with her infectious humor.

As Vice President & Treasurer of the Harrison School District 2 Board of Education, she has, • • • • • •

Implemented free before and after school care for all K-5 students Increased staff retention by 125% Developed eLearning school to provide options for parents Held multiple food distributions to support families Provided free laptops to all students Helped families with internet connectivity 13

• • • • • • • • • •

Advocate and support programs for restorative practices Provide 2 years of free college or career programs at PPCC for all graduating seniors Earned over $9 million in grants to support student learning Continued increased graduate rates Students of color have exceeded their peers in graduation rates in other local school districts.

Graduated 60+ students with an associate's degree, and over 50 students are Dakota Promise Scholar recipients.

HSD2 graduation rates are above in the state Multiple opportunities to support diversity Support students and staff in attending Educating Children of Color and Diversity University + The African American Youth Leadership Conference Reduce barriers to learning for all students: free school supplies, free transportation, free breakfast, free lunch, free sports, free laptops, free enrichment, free tutoring

Some would call Regina a pioneer as she has birthed organizations and foundations that have exceeded the status quo. Where there was no lane, Regina has created one through these well-known and successful organizations as the Founder and President: • My African American Miss, LLC – A pageant system for young African American ladies.

• Yes M.A.A.M: 2014 - Current • Be U Nonprofit: 2016 - Current • Be You Life Coaching: 2021 - Current

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Trailblazer Award Leroy Grumbach II LeRoy M. Grumbach II is currently the General Manager of Advance Auto Parts, 4509 North Tower Road, in Green Valley Ranch the community in which he resides as well. He has conducted several community events which include food drives, toy drives and neighborhood car events that focused on support the community and engaging the police department in connecting with the community. One of his first initiatives as GM was the collaborative with the police department to give Advance Auto Parts vouchers for taillight replacements instead of traffic situations.

Mr. Grumbach belongs to the company’s Veteran Service Group and is a strong advocate for hiring Veterans.

LeRoy M. Grumbach II is an accomplished and innovative operational management professional with a proven track record in general management, operations, sales, and customer service. His decisive leadership style and business acumen has contributed to a consistent ability to deliver high sales results and increase overall profitability in several organizations. Under Mr. Grumbach’s leadership AA managed inventory control, payroll, and all operations above company expectations and have achieved GOLD Store Standard Award. His store has delivered results and achieved the Focus on the Customer Award.

Mr. Grumbach served as the Director of Operations for JCJ Executive Protection based in Denver, Colorado, since 2015. His position ensured the company was providing safe, professional, and tailored security solutions to clients and their patrons as well as operating with the highest regard for confidentiality, precision, and discretion with every protection encounter. In this capacity, he spearheaded security services at major festivals providing traffic control, security, celebrity and VIP executive security, lost child services, asset protection and overall festival security. He is an accomplished and innovative operational management professional with a proven track record in general management, operations, sales, and customer service. With decisive leadership style and business acumen, he contributed to a consistent ability to deliver high sales results and increase overall profitability in several organizations.

Mr. Grumbach has held key operations and management positions with Office Depot, COMPUSA, and Airport Concessions Incorporated where he increased 15

productivity from the Denver International Airport retail and warehouse locations, by focusing the efforts of the logistics team and pairing them with the goals and management expectations of the stores to produce key performance metrics results.

LeRoy M. Grumbach II is a graduate of Christian Fenger Academy, and attended Olive Harvey College in Chicago, Illinois, a professional affiliate of Far Northeast Denver Optimist Club and Boys Day in Denver, CO. In short, he has a passion for success and community commitment, when it comes to delivering on all/more than one at a time of key indexes, goals or plans he creates a plan to achieve all goals and have always surrounded himself with people that are great at what they do, or I get them trained and I develop them to be the best in their fields. He is results driven, highly competitive person that loves to win.

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Trailblazer Award Sheila Grumbach, MS, BSN, RN, CNOR Lieutenant Colonel, US Army (ret) Colorado Springs Chapter Choir, GMWA Assistant Chapter Rep and Director of Operations Sheila currently provides interim leadership across the nation providing stability during times of leadership gaps affording the organization time to make the best long-term hiring decision.

Her time is vested in supporting the community and developing future leaders through numerous organizations. She is currently the Immediate Past Southwest Regional Director of Chi Eta Phi Sorority, Incorporated ®; a silver life member and past Colorado-Montana-Wyoming NAACP State Conference and Colorado Springs NAACP Branch Secretary and Executive Board member. Sheila advocates and supports southern Colorado sickle cell clients as Secretary and Communications Director of the Ella Mae Bransom Sickle Cell Association as well as being appointed by the Colorado Governor to the Sickle Cell Advisory Committee. Believing in the mission of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), Sheila is a legacy life NCNW and chartering member of the NCNW Presidents Circle dedicated to lead, advocate for, and empower women of African descent, their families and communities.

In her previous role as Perioperative Director for the Department of Veterans Affairs, she was hired to lead and oversee the enterprise for the start up joint initiative program between the Air Force and Veterans Administration to provide Ambulatory Surgery to Veterans. She was hired because of expertise and knowledge of health administration and managed health care programs and practices as well as general clinical principles and practices as they relate to a military medical environment. Sheila assured the program integrated nursing staff and surgical resources to provide access for approximately 117,000 southern Colorado Veterans. Scope of services included orthopedics, general surgery, urology, ophthalmology, and endoscopy. She managed technology and equipment to reduce errors, gain efficiencies, and comply with budget targets. Sought out as a subject matter expert for informatics and other technical trouble shooting in the operating room.

Sheila was a career Army Nurse since graduation from the University of Illinois College of Nursing to staff nurse as a new lieutenant, to head nurse, and educator. Later she would have her Masters in Nursing Administration conferred by the University of Illinois College of Nursing and inducted in to Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing.

During this military career path, she deployed on two humanitarian missions to Pamerola Air Base in Honduras Central America, first as Head Nurse of Sterile Processing then later in her career as the Deputy Commander of the Medical Element. After two deployments to the Gulf in two separate Combat Campaigns and from the east to Midwest United States and Germany, Sheila settled in Colorado Springs, deciding to retire as Chief Nursing Officer.

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Throughout her life, she has been published with the American Nurses Association and AORN, a speaker, and active volunteer in the community and in nursing.

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PROFESSIONAL AND COMMUNITY AFFILIATIONS: • American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE), member • American Nurses Association, member • Colorado Nurses Association, member • Illinois Nurses Association, member • Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, member since 1994 • Certified Nurse, Operating Room (CNOR) since 1991 • Association of Perioperative Nurses (AORN) since 1986 • American Nurses Association Standards of Practice Revision Work Group 2014-2015 • AORN Colorado State Legislative Coordinator- the liaison between AORN’s public policy interests and efforts in Colorado and the National Legislative Committee and AORN Government Affairs staff 2008-present.

• Chi Eta Phi Nursing Sorority, Inc. (non-profit)- Southwest Regional Director 20182022, Assistant Regional Director 03/2015- 03/2018, Chapter President 2009-2015, secretary 2015-present. National Board Nominating Committee 07/2017-present.

• Colorado Nurses Association Legislative Advisory Work Group 2017 Ella Mae Branson Sickle Cell Association (non-profit), secretary and communications director.

2006- present.

• Appointed by Colorado Governor to the Governor’s Sickle Cell Advisory Board, 2013present

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Mike Edmonds as Honorary Chair of COS GMWA Edmonds changed the landscape of Colorado College, illustrating the power of inclusive leadership. He is the first Black leader to serve as president in the college’s history and has been integral to advancing the college’s institutional initiatives including the college’s commitment to antiracism, creating greater access for students, and the partnership with the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center. He served and mentored countless students through his many years leading Student Life.

Among his many accolades, Edmonds was inducted into the National Speech and Debate Association Hall of Fame, as well as the Gold Key Society at Emory University. He also received the Delores Taylor Arthur award from the Holy Cross School in New Orleans and the Martin Luther King award from James Logan Forensics in California. The classroom on the first floor in Tutt Library is named the Frank Jr. and Hattie Mae Edmonds Experimental Classroom as well as the Hattie Mae balcony at Cornerstone Arts Center, all thanks to Edmonds’ generous donations to the college in his parents’ honor.

Dr. Mike Edmonds, senior vice president, of Colorado College will retire after a 30+ year career at the college in May 2023.

In celebration of Edmonds’ tremendous career and the lasting impact he has made on CC, the college has established the Mike Edmonds Legacy Fund to provide resources for future generations of students of all backgrounds and allow access to all CC has to offer.

His legacy will also include the Mike Edmonds CC basketball court dedicated March 2023.

Springs Chapter Choir and President Evan. Dr. PM Wyn Grove. It is only fitting that he be named as the Chapter Honorary Chair.

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Philanthropist Award- Kyle Hybl- President and Chief Executive Officer at El Pomar Foundation Kyle Hybl currently serves as President and Chief Executive Officer for El Pomar Foundation and Vice President of The Garden City Company. Kyle is Chairman Emeritus of the University of Colorado System, a board he served on from 2007-2018. Kyle currently serves as Chairman of National Cybersecurity Center, Corporate Secretary for Junior Achievement, USA and on the boards of American Council of Young Political Leaders, Employers Council and Exponential Impact. In 2018, Kyle was appointed as a member of the Air Force Civic Leaders Program.

Over the past twenty years, Kyle has developed an expertise in the arena of board governance through board service, board advice and legal counsel--His experience includes his role as President and CEO to El Pomar Foundation, a nearly 700 million dollar Colorado based private foundation and his service as General Counsel to The Broadmoor Hotel (Dec 2000- Dec 2018), the nation's longest running five star and five diamond resort. Kyle has honed his skills in board governance through service on boards (primarily nonprofit) both large and small including: Garden City Company (GCCO, OTC-US); Rocky Mountain PBS; Junior Achievement, USA; American Council of Young Political Leaders; Cheyenne Mountain Zoological Society; Police Foundation of Colorado Springs; Exponential Impact; and U.S. Bank Community Advisory Board.

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Legacy Award Bishop Cleveland Thompson Bishop Cleveland A. Thompson, Senior Pastor of Emmanuel Missionary Baptist Church (EMBC), Colorado Springs, Colorado was elevated to Bishop in the Lord’s Church under the leadership of Bishop James W. E. Dixon, II – Presiding Prelate. Bishop Thompson is an influential, charismatic preacher, and an insightful teacher who knew from the tender age of 10 years old, God had called him to a significant purpose on this planet.

Bishop Thompson continues to be an advocate for the underprivileged and disregarded – particularly African American students in the Colorado Springs educational system. He fosters the importance of higher learning especially within the Emmanuel Church culture. It has been proven that there are disparities within the school system. Bishop Thompson does “walk the talk,” through the Dr. Moses E. Ford Scholarship Program, whereby annually, educational grants are awarded to Emmanuel’s aspiring students who are striving to achieve an education beyond High School. He conveys, no student should fall through the educational system due to their socio-economic status.

Additionally, Bishop Thompson is a highly respected spiritual leader and advisor whose acumens span locally, nationally, as well as internationally. His philanthropic affiliations reach across the ocean to The Ridgeways Baptist Church of Nairobi, Kenya – our sister church. In 2021, Emmanuel collaborated with World Vision International, and a network of churches in Colorado Springs to assist with the sharing and distribution of donated furniture and household commodities to families throughout Colorado. His civic and Christian alliances encompass organizations such as Kingdom Builders Global Fellowship, The National Baptist Convention, USA Inc, The Western States Convention of Colorado and Wyoming, and The Southern District Association, to name a few.

This life transforming and faith proclaiming preacher from Liberty, Mississippi attributes his strong spiritual convictions from the exemplary principles taught by his parents, the late David L. Thompson, Senior, and Vivian N. Thompson. He began his personal walk with Jesus Christ at the Liberty Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Rev. Dr. William H. Tobias.

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MINISTERIAL ACHIEVEMENTS – In 1987 – Cleveland A. Thompson was ordained as a Deacon at the Traditional Gospel Church, Lajes Field, Azores, Portugal, by Rev. Dr. Alexander Tate.

In 1993 – Deacon Cleveland A. Thompson received his License to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ under the leadership of Pastor R. E. West of Greater Strangers Rest Missionary Baptist Church in Fort Worth, Texas.

In 1994 – Reverend Cleveland A. Thompson united with Emmanuel Missionary Baptist Church.

In 1996 – Reverend Cleveland A. Thompson was appointed as First Assistant to the presiding Pastor and served in that position until October 2006.

On October 30, 2006 – Reverend Cleveland A. Thompson was elected as Senior Pastor of Emmanuel Missionary Baptist Church.

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Musician of the Year AwardTony Exum, Jr. National Recording Artist NY EXUM JR. BIOGRAPHY Colorado's own national recording artist Tony Exum, Jr. is a contemporary jazz, R&B and funk saxophonist, songwriter and performer with a smooth, sultry and soulful sound. In 2019 Tony released his single “My Name’s Tony” receiving international airplay, charting on the Smooth Jazz Network top 100 chart for 12 weeks. In addition, the My Name’s Tony Spring/Summer 14 city tour, included performances at the San Diego Smooth Jazz Festival in San Diego, California, Spaghettini’s in Long Beach, California, The Soiled Dove Underground in Denver Colorado, Jazz in The Park in Prattville, Alabama and the Winter Park Jazz Festival in Winter Park Colorado to name a few. He remains a staple in the national contemporary jazz circuit with performances across the U.S. Tony is taking 2023 to new heights musically and professionally with an unrestrained passion and impeccable work ethic that is second to none. Performances in 2021/22 already include the Taste of the South Festival, 30th Annual Berks Jazz Fest and the 2021Jazz Legacy Foundation 8th Annual Gala Weekend, Stockton Jazz Fest, San Diego Smooth Jazz just to name a few. Tony’s catalog consists of two critically acclaimed albums, “Finally” and “The One” and 7 singles including two Smooth Jazz Network top 100 charting singles "Brighter Days (with David P. Stevens)" and "Get At You" feat. Desmond "Motown" Washington which also reached #1 and #4 on the Billboard/BDS Smooth Jazz Airplay Most Added charts respectively. Beyond work as a recording artist Tony embarked on a career in radio hosting in 2017 on Colorado Springs FM Station Jazz 93.5 FM (jazz935.org) with over 20 hours per week of on-air time. In addition, Tony entered a business venture in late 2019 with Kastell Vodka as their Global Brand Ambassador performing throughout the year at Kas'tell sponsored Red Bottle Affairs also featuring fellow contemporary jazz artists as special guests including Lin Rountree and David P Stevens. In late 2021, Tony signed his first recording contract with Sony/The Orchard/BSE Recordings and released his current single in summer 2022 "Everything" Produced by BSE CEO Lou Humphrey, labelmate R&B Pop singer songwriter Arika Kane and producer/multi instrumentalist Jasmon Joyner reaching #19 on the Urban Influencer R&B Soul Chart in the 2022. Tony refers to his music as "Rhythm N Smooth". A tag indicating his flawless execution of the smooth saxophone with R&B influenced grooves and melodies. Twitter: @misterexumjr IG: @texumjr FB: Tony Exum Jr Music Website: www.tonyexumjr.com TikTok: @texumjr3

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Community Service Award Chris Albi, Group Vice President of Operations, King Soopers

President’s Award- Rosemary Lytle President’s Award- Rosemary Lytle Executive Director, Positive Impact Colorado Veteran communicator, facilitator and nonprofit consultant -- enthusiastic and mission-driven -possessing superior listening, problem solving and project management abilities and ready to play a key role in conveying value both to staff and clients to meet Rosemary Lytle has been involved with issues of diversity and inclusion for over 20 years – first as a newspaper journalist, as a trainer and consultant and most recently as President of the NAACP Colorado Montana Wyoming State Area Conference. Ms. Lytle is the Immediate Past Colorado-Montana-Wyoming NAACP State Conference President.

A native of Gary, Indiana, Mrs. Lytle has worked as a reporter/columnist for newspapers including the Philadelphia Inquirer, The Virginian-Pilot and The Orlando Sentinel, where she became the first Black female Society Columnist at a major U.S. daily. She served as President of the Central Florida Association of Black Journalists and Broadcasters and as Region IV Director of the National Association of Black Journalists. She is a recipient of the Excellence in Column-Writing Award from the American Association of Sunday and Features Editors and served as Diversity Content Editor for “Delving into the Divide,” a publication of the Pew Center for Civic Journalism. Rosemary is the Chair of the Board of Directors of Murder Victims Families for Reconciliation, a national organization that advocates for replacing the death penalty with safer, more sensible alternatives.

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Mary Mcleod Bethune Education Award Rochelle Dickey, Colorado College Rochelle T. Dickey is the dean of students and vice president for Student Life at Colorado College. She has previously served as senior associate dean of students, associate dean, and director of minority student life, and director of minority and international students, also at Colorado College.

Rochelle has served on and chaired numerous campus and national committees, including the Associated Colleges of the Midwest Committee on Minority Concerns. She is very excited and honored to be a recent recipient of the Gresham Riley Award for making a difference in the Colorado College community through outstanding service, commitment, and accomplishment.

To name just a few, Rochelle Dickey was awarded the Urban League Service Award for her commitment to the welfare of minority students on campus.

Additionally, Dickey received the CC Student Mentor Award for five years and Advising Awards from the Colorado College Student Government Association, as well as the Blue Key and Mortar Board National Honor Societies.

She will be retiring in March after many years leading inclusive and bold initiatives at Colorado College.

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Colorado Springs Chapter of GMWA would like to express our sincerest thanks to the following sponsors: Diamond sponsors à El Pomar Foundation

à Colorado College

Gold Sponsors

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Colorado College’s one-course-at-a-time Block Plan creates leaders who focus deeply, grasp concepts fully, conduct research thoroughly, and produce projects and creative work innovatively.

A Colorado College liberal arts education prepares you for life in a rapidly changing world.

COLORADO COLLEGE www.coloradocollege.edu

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