Mayor Alvin Brown honored 16 African-American community leaders Thursday night.
Johnnetta Betsch Cole, director of the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art, was keynote speaker at the annual “trailblazers” event.
The honorees are:
Distinguished service awards
• Roslyn Burrough: For her career in the performing arts and her commitment to educating children
• Richard D. Danford Jr.: For dedication to economic empowerment of Jacksonville citizens
• The Rev. R.L. Gundy: For his work and commitment to increasing social justice in Jacksonville.
• Isaiah Rumlin: For his work to increasing social justice in Jacksonville
• Brenda Simmons-Hutchins: For her work in education and as co-creator of the Black History Month Calendar in Jacksonville
Trailblazer awards
• Carol J. Alexander: Founding executive director of the Ritz Theatre and Museum
• Dr. Reuben E. Brigety: First African-American to receive a medical degree from the University of Florida
• Dr. William L. Cody Sr.: First African-American president of the medical staff at St. Vincent’s Medical Center, Riverside
• Bevelyn Demps: First African-American to teach at Justina Road Elementary School
• Dr. Frank S. Emanuel: First clinical pharmacist in Jacksonville
• Vivian Wilson Howard: First African-American female licensed mortician in Duval County
• Dr. Marvin C. Wells: First African-American to graduate from the University of Florida College of Dentistry
• Elizabeth E. Yates: First female presiding elder of the 11th Episcopal District’s East Annual Conference
Lifetime achievement awards
• Estelle McKissick: For her work in education, administration, service and mentorship.
• Lloyd N. Pearson Jr.: For his work in advocating for civil and political liberty and equal access to constitutional protections
• H. T. Rhim: For his training, advocacy of social justice and mentorship.