BUILDING LEGACY
NURTURING LEADERS WHO GIVE BACK
ABOUT OUR FOUNDER
In 1996, Anthony (Tony) Pilaro, founded the Ron Brown Scholar Program (RBSP) to honor the late Secretary of Commerce Ronald H. Brown and his legacy of achievement and global leadership. From inception, Tony Pilaro wanted this to be no ordinary scholarship program. He was determined to increase the number of African Americans that could attend college and have the potential to become industry leaders sparking the next generation to achieve even more. As a result of years of community building during their college and postgraduate pursuits, along with formative influences such as mentoring and conference experiences, each class of Ron Brown Scholar leaders consult and work with one another, ensuring collaboration and continuity. The goal is to keep Ron Brown’s ethic of “doing well by doing good.”
For 28 years, Tony Pilaro’s philanthropy and vision have created a highly successful network concept for emerging young leaders. Tony’s engagement and support in creating a viable model for young people to succeed, and remain committed to giving back, is what makes his vision extraordinary.
Who We Are
The Ron Brown Scholar Fund is a public 501c3 charity and administers the Ron Brown Scholar Program (RBSP). Established in 1996 by Anthony M. Pilaro to honor the late Secretary of Commerce, RBSP is a college scholarship and leadership program for African American students.
Our Mission
The Ron Brown Scholar Program is committed to improving the lives of intellectually gifted, community and public service-minded African Americans by accelerating their progress into impactful leadership roles and opportunities.
Our Vision
The vision of the Ron Brown Scholar Program is to cultivate the next generation of leaders who positively impact their communities and blaze new paths in their chosen careers and professions.
Programs
Dear Friends and Supporters,
Among all of the Ron Brown Scholar Program’s accomplishments, one stands out most vividly this year: 2024 marks the moment when we’ve made college and career success possible for over 10,000 young African American leaders through our three cornerstone programs—our signature Ron Brown Scholarship, the Leaders Network, and the Guided Pathway Support (GPS) Program.
When Tony Pilaro and I envisioned this community back in 1996, we didn’t focus solely on the 10,000 lives we would directly touch. Instead, we dreamed about the millions these 10,000 leaders would serve, represent, and inspire.
The ripple effect of empowering a small group of exceptional individuals to maximize their potential—measured not just by GPAs or test scores, but by the lives they transform—is what fuels us as we enter our 28th year. Every dollar donated, every conversation with our GPS Navigators, every internship arranged for our Captains, and every meaningful connection shared with our Scholars creates an exponential impact, reaching far beyond what we can see today.
On behalf of the 10,000 young people we’ve been privileged to support and those of us honored to walk this journey with them, thank you. Your investment in this mission changes lives, families, and communities across the globe. For nearly three decades, each new year brings even more excitement, purpose, and hope than the last—a powerful blessing we cherish deeply.
With gratitude and hope,
Michael A. Mallory PRESIDENT & CEO,
Brown
Andrew C. Pilaro
RON BROWN SCHOLAR PROGRAM
TRANSFORMING LIVES THROUGH EDUCATION AND LEADERSHIP
SIGNATURE SCHOLARSHIP
Empowering Excellence
For over 25 years, the Ron Brown Scholar Program has identified and supported some of the nation’s most talented African American high school students. Our Signature Scholarship provides financial support, mentorship, and leadership development, creating a foundation for lifelong success.
683 SCHOLARS
99% GRADUATION RATE
$34M SPENT
KEY STATS:
• 683 Scholars: A growing community of excellence.
• 99% Graduation Rate: Scholars who set the standard for academic achievement.
• $34M Spent: Investing in scholarships and leadership development.
LEADERS NETWORK
Connecting Talent to Opportunity
The Ron Brown Leaders Network provides unmatched professional development and networking opportunities for Scholars, Captains, and Alumni. Through mentorship, industry connections, events, and career resources, members thrive in college and early careers.
1200+
COLLEGE & EARLY CAREER MEMBERS
700+
EXPERIENCED ALUMNI MEMBERS
4.2 AVERAGE HIGH SCHOOL GPA
KEY STATS:
• 1,200+ College & Early Career Members: Supporting students and recent grads.
• 700+ Experienced Alumni Members: A network of proven leaders giving back.
• 4.2 Average High School GPA: Showcasing exceptional academic promise.
• 60% STEM Majors: Building diverse leadership in critical fields.
GUIDED PATHWAY SUPPORT (GPS)
Paving the Road to Higher Education
GPS is a free college access program designed to help African American high school juniors and seniors navigate the complexities of college admissions. Through personalized mentorship, educational resources, and a strong network, GPS ensures students are prepared to succeed.
93%
COLLEGE MATRICULATION RATE
7022
STUDENTS SERVED
25
EDUCATION PARTNERS & CORPORATE SPONSORS
KEY STATS:
• 93% College Matriculation Rate: Delivering life-changing outcomes.
• 7,022 Students Served: Empowering the next generation.
• 25 Education Partners & Corporate Sponsors: Broadening access and opportunity.
2024 HIGHLIGHTS CHAMPIONING EXCELLENCE AND IMPACT
STRENGTHENING OUR MISSION
Welcoming Michelle Packer
In 2024, the Ron Brown Scholar Program welcomed Michelle Packer as Chief Advancement Officer and Vice President. Michelle’s leadership is already enhancing our efforts to expand partnerships, increase philanthropic support, and elevate our impact in the years to come.
A Warm Welcome to the New RBSP Headquarters
In September, we hosted an open house to showcase our beautiful new headquarters in Charlottesville, VA. Scholars, alumni, staff, and community members toured the space, participated in engaging discussions, and celebrated growing our impact from our new home.
Raising Funds to Transform Lives
The first inaugural PlumeStrong Gala Philanthropic Dinner raised significant funds to support the Ron Brown Scholar Program and the Ron Brown Venture Lab launch. Set against the stunning backdrop of Sonoma County vineyards, the event featured fine dining, rare wine pairings, and an auction, making it a night to remember for all attendees.
This year, 13 GPS Navigators earned full scholarships to top colleges through QuestBridge, a testament to their hard work and the program’s unparalleled support. These achievements highlight the power of guidance and mentorship in shaping bright futures for African-American students.
PLUME GALA PHILANTHROPIC DINNER
OPEN HOUSE
KEY EVENTS FROM 2024
THE VALUE OF ONE. THE POWER OF ALL.
Honoring Excellence and Leadership
The 2024 American Journey Awards celebrated the remarkable achievements of leaders and visionaries who embody Ronald H. Brown’s spirit. Honorees and scholars came together for an inspiring evening underscoring the power of mentorship, leadership, and community in shaping a better future. Honorees this year included:
American Journey Award Honoree
Ms. Sheila Johnson, Founder and CEO Salamander Collection
American Journey Award Honoree Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, Former Representative of the United States of America to the United Nations
American Journey Award for Emerging Leadership
Brandon L. Nicholson, PhD, RBS 2001, Chief Executive Officer, The Hidden Genius Project
Christopher A. Pilaro Fellowship in the Arts
Margaret Ivey, RBS 2007, Actor and Teaching Artist
Robert B. Binswanger Communitarian Award
Carmelle T. Norice MD-PhD, RBS 1997, Clinical Director, Infectious Diseases Clinical Research, Merck Research Laboratories
SELECTION WEEKEND & ALUMNI ASSOCIATION MEETING:
Connecting Generations of Leaders
During Selection Weekend, 49 new Ron Brown Scholars were chosen amid excitement and inspiration. This transformative weekend also featured the annual Alumni Association meeting, where alums shared insights, strengthened connections, and affirmed their commitment to supporting the Program’s mission.
Empowering the Next Generation of Trailblazers
The 2024 Leaders Summit brought together Captains, Scholars, and corporate partners for a multi-day conference filled with career development workshops, networking, and mentorship. Simultaneously, the Legal Launch initiative provided aspiring law students with essential resources and professional exposure.
Building Bonds Across the Nation
Ron Brown Scholars and Captains came together from coast to coast for summer gatherings that fostered fellowship and collaboration. These events highlighted the strength of the RBSP community and provided a platform for meaningful conversations, reconnections, and shared experiences.
AMERICAN JOURNEY AWARDS
SUMMER GATHERINGS
LEADERS SUMMIT & LEGAL LAUNCH
2024 SERVICE-RELATED IMPACT GLOBAL MAP
EMPOWERING YOUNG SCIENTISTS
AHMED MUHAMMAD’S KITS
CUBED STEM FAIR
Ahmed Muhammad (RBS 2022) brought STEM education to life with his Kits Cubed STEM Fair, an event dedicated to sparking curiosity in science for elementary and middle school students. The fair showcased interactive experiments and activities, making STEM accessible and exciting for young learners.
Location: Oakland, CA
BUILDING DREAMS:
RAHSAAN KING’S $10 MILLION COMMUNITY CENTER
Rahsaan King (RBS 2013) made headlines with the launch of the Settegast Revitalization Initiative, a $10 million community center in Houston, TX. With plans to include a healthcare clinic, library, affordable housing, and more, this transformative project aims to uplift one of the city’s most underserved neighborhoods.
Location: Houston, TX
GABRIELLE DEMUREN (RBS 2024)
HOSTS FREE SPORTS CLINIC TO EMPOWER DMV YOUTH
Ron Brown Scholar Gabrielle Demuren brought her passion for sports and mentorship to the DMV (DC, Maryland, Virginia) area, organizing a free sports clinic for young athletes. The clinic offered skillbuilding activities, fitness education, and inspirational talks to foster confidence and teamwork. Gabrielle’s initiative exemplifies the RBSP mission of giving back and uplifting future generations.
Location: Northern Virginia
LEADING CHANGE JAY LUNDY
HEAD OF NAACP CAPITAL
Jay Lundy (RBS 2008) was named Managing Director of NAACP Capital, a groundbreaking $200 million fund to close gaps facing communities of color. His visionary leadership will shape impactful investments in fund managers, and startups focused on equity and innovation.
Location: Baltimore, MD
CREATIVE EXCELLENCE IN THE ARTS
CALEB FRANKLIN’S HEYHEY!
GLOBAL EXPANSION
Caleb Franklin (RBS 2001), founder and CEO of HeyHey! Globally, he expanded his media platform to India and Japan. Caleb’s work uses innovative technology to connect fans and celebrities, bridging cultural gaps and showcasing the influence of diverse perspectives in entertainment.
Location: India & Japan
OLIVIA SALLY AWARDED PRESTIGIOUS 2024 MARSHALL SCHOLARSHIP
Captain Olivia Sally has been named a 2024 Marshall Scholar, highlighting her academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to global change. This prestigious award will allow her to pursue advanced studies in the United Kingdom, focusing on public policy and international relations. Her achievement underscores the exceptional quality of Ron Brown Leaders Network and their potential to make a significant impact worldwide.
Location: United Kingdom
“THE SCHOLARS INSPIRE ME EVERY DAY; THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT AND I AM DELIGHTED TO SUPPORT THIS MISSION.”
EMPOWERING FUTURE GENERATIONS OF RON BROWN SCHOLARS THROUGH ENDOWMENT AND PLANNED GIVING
The RBSP’s Development Office recently caught up with advisory board member and benefactor, Ann Horner. In a Q&A, Ann discusses what drew her to the RBSP, her engagement with Scholars and Captains, and why she gives to the program. The interview has been edited and condensed for publication.
SO, YOU GREW UP IN MARYLAND, WHAT WAS LIFE LIKE FOR YOU GROWING UP?
AH: Well as the fifth of seven children, I had a wonderful childhood, growing up in a small town in Prince George’s County. My family moved to Washington, D.C. when was twelve years old in search of better opportunities. Both of my parents went to college and there was never a thought would not go to college or have a career. Even in tough times financially, my parents continued to prioritize education.
HOW DID YOU LEARN ABOUT THE RON BROWN SCHOLAR PROGRAM?
AH: I moved to Charlottesville in 2010, in 2012 I met Vanessa Evans Grevious [vice president at RBSP] at a social event for women. It was a wonderful event! Women from a wide-range of backgrounds coming together. You had the opportunity to talk with women you would otherwise not have a chance at meeting. Vanessa told me about her work with the Ron Brown Scholar Program. I loved it! We later met up for lunch. She invited me to read applications, a job that I took very seriously. Twelve years later I continue to read applications and I have joined the scholar selection committee. This is the most inspiring work have ever done!
LET’S TALK ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE IN THE SELECTION PROCESS AND ENGAGEMENT WITH THE STUDENTS.
AH: I consider it a privilege to spend time with high school and college students. I feel like I get more from them than they give to me. For example, they [finalists] have a shared belief in helping others, they believe in giving back. Supporting the program financially is an honor. This is tangible. It’s affecting real people. The program gives financial support to individuals whose lives are changed with four years of a college education and a supportive community. This program has created real change for over 683 students and their communities in the last 28 years. The future is bright. Financial support will ensure this great work will continue.
WHY DID YOU GIVE TO THE PROGRAM AND TALK ABOUT YOUR RECENT ENDOWED AND PLANNED GIFTS?
AH:: I attended the American Journey awards dinner the first year I read applications. Though I was inspired by the applications read, I was amazed by the finalists and alumni I met at the dinner. I immediately sponsored two scholarships in honor of my parents- the two individuals who made my education possible. I recently pledged to endow a scholarship to guarantee the long-term funding for a scholar and to support the program’s larger endowment goals. It only seemed logical to follow that with a planned gift from my estate. When go, this gift will be a part of my last wishes. I hope it inspires others to explore the Ron Brown Scholar Program and discover why it is at the top of my list. Planned gifts are very easy to build into estate plans and Michelle Packer helped me to create the gift. give because of the program’s track record of success and sustainability which gives me great confidence in the organization. Long into the future, I hope my planned gift arrives on a rainy day and the program uses it to jump start a new idea like the Venture Lab and GPS which are additive to the mission. I hope the gift arrives just when it’s needed most. The program reminds me of the mentors that I have had in my life---during college and in business. The mentors and a connected network are some of the great things I love so much about RBS. In addition, I have met so many scholars with a winning spirit, making a positive difference in their lives and the lives of others and giving back no matter what challenges they face. The scholars inspire me every day; the future is bright and I am delighted to support this mission! Thank you for asking!
SCHOLARS WHO GIVE BACK: THE POWER OF A CIRCLE COMPLETED
From recipients to benefactors, Ron Brown Scholars are paying it forward—investing in the very community that launched their journeys.
Ron Brown Scholars across the generations have stepped up in ways that deepen our mission and extend our reach. From transformative major gifts to monthly recurring donations, our Scholars are now helping to fund the future they once needed.
60% OF SCHOLARS HAVE GIVEN BACK
$1.53M RAISED FROM ALUMNI & UNDERGRAD CONTRIBUTIONS
Since 2007 to end of 2024, Scholars have raised over $1.53M for the Program. Most of these contributions will fund future scholarships, but they have also raised money to help fellow Scholars who find themselves facing unforeseen and challenging circumstances.
We are very grateful and proud of all our Ron Brown Scholars who contribute, financially and otherwise, to support and nurture one another. The significance of their support goes to the very heart of our mission and confirms our belief in the “Value of One; the Power of All.”
The dream of a self-sustaining, Scholar-led program is no longer a dream—it’s a reality in motion.
A GIFT THAT LASTS FOREVER: JON PIPER ENDOWS A SCHOLARSHIP
JON PIPER (RBS 1998) ENDOWED SIGNATURE SCHOLARSHIP
In 1999, Jon Piper stood among just sixty Scholars at our “Leadership for a New Millennium” Summit. Twenty-five years later, he has become the first Scholar to endow a Signature Scholarship—ensuring that one deserving student each year
will receive the same life-changing opportunity he once did. Jon’s generosity is more than financial—it’s generational.
A pioneer in medical image processing and the Chief Scientific Officer at MIM Software, Jon has spent his career building systems that improve lives. Now, he’s building something just as vital: a legacy of leadership.
As a longtime supporter and Advisory Board member, Jon exemplifies our founding ideal of “doing well by doing good.” His gift is a vote of confidence in the community he helped build and a rallying cry for the Scholars who follow.
FIVE SCHOLARS, ONE VISION: FUNDING
THE FUTURE
SIGNATURE SCHOLARSHIPS FOR SCHOLARS BY SCHOLARS
Five other Scholars have also stepped forward with extraordinary gifts of donating Signature Scholarships for future Scholars. These gifts don’t just fund students—they send a powerful signal to our network and to the world: The Ron Brown Scholar Program is a community that reinvests in its own.
SAM ALEMAYEHU (RBS 2004)
KANI KEITA (RBS 2008)
CARMELLE NORICE, MD-PHD (RBS 1997)
CAMILLE EVERHART (RBS 2009)
ETHAN MONREAL-JACKSON (RBS 2008)
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Samuel Z. Alemayehu (RBS 2004)
CO-FOUNDER AND GENERAL PARTNER, C1 VENTURES (C1V)
Patrick Baker MANAGER/PRODUCER
Douglas C. Boggs PARTNER, DLA PIPER LLP (US)
Peter A. Boyce, II (RBS 2008) FOUNDER & MANAGING PARTNER, STELLATION CAPITAL
Dr. L.D. Britt
BRICKHOUSE PROFESSOR AND CHAIRMAN, DEPARTMENT OF SURGERY, EASTERN VIRGINIA MEDICAL SCHOOL
Terri Dean
CHIEF OF STAFF, REGION 3, ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
Ambassador Diana Dougan CHAIRMAN, CYBER CENTURY FORUM
Jonathan Greenblatt CEO, ANTI-DEFAMATION LEAGUE
Dane E. Holmes
CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER, KKR
Michelle C. Ifill Esq. EXECUTIVE COACH AND CONSULTANT, MCIFILL CONSULTING, LLC
Kani Keita (RBS 2008) VICE PRESIDENT, TPG CAPITAL
Michael A. Mallory
PRESIDENT & CEO, RON BROWN SCHOLAR FUND
Gavin McFarland PHILANTHROPIST
Andrew C. Pilaro
CHAIRMAN, CAP PROPERTIES LTD
Anthony M. Pilaro
CHAIRMAN EMERITUS RBSF BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Aaron Williams
SENIOR ADVISOR—EMERITUS, INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT & GOVERNMENT RELATIONS, RTI INTERNATIONAL
Michael Winger
PRESIDENT, MONUMENTAL BASKETBALL
EMERITUS
Jack Leslie
SENIOR ADVISOR AND FORMER CHAIRMAN, WEBER SHANDWICK
Thaderine D. MacFarlane PHILANTHROPIST
Jonathan Mariner FORMER CORPORATE EXECUTIVE
Marva A. Smalls
EVP, GLOBAL HEAD OF INCLUSION, PARAMOUNT EVP, PUBLIC AFFAIRS, KIDS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT BRANDS, PARAMOUNT
Kathy Thornton-Bias
PRESIDENT AND CEO, BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF GREATER MILWAUKEE
Michael Treisman
GENERAL COUNSEL, GLOBAL CAPITAL MARKETS, BAIN CAPITAL
Tom Werner
CHAIRMAN, BOSTON RED SOX PARTNER AND CO-FOUNDER, CARSEY-WERNER LLC
A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE, A FUTURE OF PROMISE
As we reflect on another transformative year for the Ron Brown Scholar Program, we are filled with gratitude for the unwavering support of our community. Together, we have continued to invest in the leaders of tomorrow, providing them with the resources, mentorship, and opportunities they need to thrive.
As we look ahead to the coming year, our mission remains clear: to empower the next generation of Ron Brown leaders to achieve their fullest potential. Whether through education, leadership development, or meaningful connections, we are committed to driving transformative change.
We invite you to continue this journey with us. Your support—whether through mentorship, donations, or advocacy—makes a lasting impact on the lives of the young leaders we serve.
Together, we are lifting as we climb, building a legacy of excellence that will resonate for generations to come. From the Pilaro family, and from all of us honoring the enduring legacy of Ron Brown—thank you.
Here’s to an even brighter future in 2025 and beyond.
Andrew C. Pilaro
CHAIR, BOARD OF TRUSTEES RON BROWN SCHOLAR PROGRAM