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Lincoln University, the nation’s first degree-grantingHistorically Black College and University (HBCU), educatesand empowers students to lead their communities and changethe world.It does so by:Providing a rigorous liberal arts education featuring activeand collaborative learning;Integrating academic and co-curricular programs with theUniversity’s distinctive legacy of global engagement, socialresponsibility and leadership development; andCultivating the character, values and standards of excellenceneeded to enable students to become responsible citizens ofa global community.
T R U M P E T E RI N V O C A T I O NS O L O I S T A C K N O W L E D G E M E N T O F G U E S T SS P E C I A L A W A R D D E D I C A T I O NF I R S T H O N O R E E A W A R D P R E S E N T A T I O N S E C O N D H O N O R E E A W A R D P R E S E N T A T I O N T H I R D H O N O R E E A W A R D P R E S E N T A T I O NALUMNI AWARDS PROGAMLINCOLN UNIVERSITY - AALU NYC METRO CHAPTERJU NE 8, 20 24D A N C E P E R F O R M A N C ET R U M P E T E RF O U R T H H O N O R E E A W A R D P R E S E N T A T I O NF I F T H H O N O R E E A W A R D P R E S E N T A T I O NT R U M P E T E RI N T R O O F K E Y N O T E S P E A K E RKEYNOTE SPEAKERI N T R O O F T H E G A L A C O M M I T T E EC L O S I N G R E M A R K SA L M A M A T E R Harry RobinsonBilal H. Key, AALU NYC Metro Chapter - President ‘14Tyler DiggsBilal H. Key, AALU NYC Metro Chapter - President ‘14Presented by: Ms. Monique McKenzie '91Presented by: Mrs.Tara Chester-Wells Presented by: Mrs. Nyhisha T. Gibbs Presented by: Ms. Makeba Junior '91sAkhiir McNeil (High School)Harry RobinsonPresented by: Ms. Gloria Seay ‘09Presented by: Ms. Kaitelyn DwarciaHarry RobinsonBilal H. Key, AALU NYC Metro Chapter - President ‘14 Dr. Brenda Allen - Lincoln University PresidentBilal H. Key, AALU NYC Metro Chapter - President ‘14 Bilal H. Key, AALU NYC Metro Chapter - President ‘14 Shannon Whitaker ‘14 CO CKTAI L H OUR DI NNER IS SERVE DNE TWORKING AND DANCI NG
Ladies and Gentlemen,Good evening and welcome to the Alumni Awards and Gala, proudly presented by the Alumni Association of Lincoln University, PA NY Metro Chapter, Inc. We are delighted to have you join us for this prestigious event as we celebratethe outstanding achievements of our esteemed alumni.This evening is particularly special as it marks the return of the Alumni Awards and Gala for the firsttime since the pandemic. It is our fourth gala, and we are thrilled to gather once again to honor thelegacy and contributions of Lincoln University's finest, whose dedication and excellence continue toinspire and uplift our community.Your presence here not only highlights the strong bonds we share as alumni but also reinforces ourcollective commitment to advancing the values and vision of our beloved alma mater. In addition, thepurpose of tonight’s event is to raise funds to provide financial assistance to current students of LincolnUniversity, PA, ensuring they have the resources they need to succeed.As we recognize the remarkable accomplishments of our award recipients, let us also take thisopportunity to reconnect with old friends, make new connections, and reflect on the enduring impact ofour Lincoln University education.Thank you for your unwavering support and for being a part of this special evening. Together, let uscelebrate our past successes, support our current students, and look forward to a future filled withpromise and possibility.Welcome back, and enjoy the Gala!Warm regards,Bilal Key President, Alumni Association of Lincoln University, PA NY Metro Chapter, Inc. Class of 2014 ---Bilal Key
Throughout her career, Brenda Allen has consistently addressed issues of diversity and all matters affectinghigher education. She currently serves on several boards of institutions of higher education and communityorganizations. In addition, Dr. Allen has been appointed to numerous state and federal advisory boardsaddressing issues currently effecting the deliverance of a quality education to diverse constituent groups.She is highly sought after as a keynote speaker and participant on panels addressing topics includingdiversity, race and discrimination, investment in higher education, and educational inequities andopportunities. Prior to coming to Lincoln, Dr. Allen held executive positions at Winston Salem State University, BrownUniversity and Smith College. She also served as a postdoctoral associate and lecturer at Yale University.Dr. Allen holds a bachelor's in psychology from Lincoln University, and a master's degree and doctorate inpsychology, both from Howard University. MEET DR. BRENDA A. ALLENLincoln University’s 14th PresidentBrenda A. Allen was appointed as Lincoln University’s 14th president in2017. Since that time, she has implemented a strategic plan designed toensure Lincoln's place among great liberal arts institutions. Currentinvestments include increased support for faculty teaching andscholarship, student retention, graduation and success after graduation,and expanding co-curricular opportunities. Under Dr. Allen’s leadershipthe University received a $20 million gift, the largest from a single donorin Lincoln’s 170-year history. Our Keynote Speaker
Lincoln University’s Core Values support its mission and visionand shape its culture. These values are intended to educate ourstakeholders—students, faculty, staff, alumni, communitypartners, and others—about the essence of our institutionalidentity. That is, who we are and how we operate. These valuesguide our decisions and reflect our ongoing commitment to theLincoln Legacy of Excellence.Respect. Responsibility. Results.
Mrs. Tara L. Chester-WellsAALU NYC Metro Chapter Parent CoordinatorMother of Jendaya R. Wells Lincoln UniversityClass of 2024Mr. Bilal H. KeyAALU NYC Metro ChapterPresidentLincoln University Class of 2014Ms. Monique MckenzieAALU NYC Metro Chapter Vice President Lincoln University Class of 1991Ms. Aisha BuchananLincoln University Class of2016ALUMNI AWARDS Gala CommitteeGala CommitteeMs. Emily AthuaiwreLincoln University Class of2023Mrs. Nyhisha T. GibbsAALU NYC Metro ChapterParent CoordinatorMother of Cody A. Gibbs Lincoln UniversityClass of 2026Ms. Gloria SeayLincoln University Class of2009INTRODUCTION OFLINCOLN UNIVERSITY - AALU NYC METRO CHAPTER
She pioneered a successful career in public service advocating for social justice, women’s equality, and education, ultimately in2017 becoming the first woman of color to serve in a statewide elected office in New Jersey history. In 2021, Lt. GovernorOliver was reelected to serve a second term in office. In addition to her role as Lieutenant Governor, she served asCommissioner of the Department of Community Affairs, where she led efforts to strengthen and expand initiatives for fair andaffordable housing, community revitalization, homelessness prevention, and local government services that support NewJersey’s 564 municipalities. Under her leadership, the Department also expanded and leveraged a wide range of initiativesaimed at assisting distressed municipalities, including the federal Opportunity Zones tax incentive, the Main Street New Jerseyprogram, the Neighborhood Preservation Program, the Neighborhood Revitalization Tax Credit program, and the UrbanEnterprise Zone Program, which was renewed by legislation she signed in 2021.In her role as Acting Governor, she signed multiple bills into law, including those that established a Caregiver Task Force toidentify ways to support people taking care of loved ones who are elderly or disabled, require all public school students ingrades 6-8 to receive financial literacy education, strengthen equal pay for equal work by preventing employers from askingemployees’ previous salary history, and protect employees from wage theft. She also signed into law legislation that establisheda Restorative and Transformative Justice for Youths and Communities Pilot Program within the Juvenile Justice Commissionto help divert youth from entering and re-entering the juvenile justice system. Across her career, Lieutenant Governor Oliverworked in the public, non-profit, and private sectors, and has taught numerous college courses. She has served as a member ofboth the East Orange Board of Education and the Essex County Board of Chosen Freeholders.In 2003, she was elected to serve the 34th Legislative District in the New Jersey General Assembly. A trailblazer in every senseof the word, in 2010 she became the first African American woman in state history to serve as Assembly Speaker, and just thesecond in the nation’s history to lead a state legislative house. A proud alumna of the Newark public school system, LieutenantGovernor Oliver graduated cum laude from Lincoln University, and received her Master of Science Degree in CommunityOrganization, Planning and Administration from Columbia University. She has received honorary doctorates of humaneletters from the New Jersey Institute of Technology, Lincoln University, Montclair University, Stockton University andBerkeley and Essex County Colleges. She was a proud 40-plus-year resident of East Orange where she treasured her time withher 95-year-old mother, who always encouraged her to be a critical thinker while fostering her passion for helping peoplethrough effective public policy.Meet Dr. Sheila Y. OliverClass of ‘74PosthumouslyLt. Governor New JerseyBorn to the late Charles Oliver and Jennie Oliver, Sheila Y. Oliver served as NewJersey’s 2nd Lieutenant Governor from January 16, 2018, until her passing on August1, 2023. A self-described “Jersey Girl,” born and raised in an ethnically diverseNewark neighborhood Lieutenant Governor Oliver was inspired as a young girl to be afighter for the voiceless when her eyes were opened to societal injustices and inequitiesaround her, often citing “A Tale ofTwo Cities” as her youth awakening. 2024 Special Honoree
In January 2013, Floyd was appointed to the national board of Americans for the Arts (DC). In addition, he serveson the boards of the Hartford Public Library, the CT Arts Foundation, the CT Arts Council, the Bushnell Center ofPerforming Arts Board of Ambassadors, Arts Ignite (NYC), Xavier University’s Corporate Advisory Board (LA),Howard University’s School of Communications Board of Visitors (DC), and an honorary board member ofHartford Performs. Floyd is the recipient of many professional and civic awards. Most notably Black Doctors.org and Johns HopkinsCenter for Health Disparities Solutions 45 most influential Blacks in Healthcare, The National Action Network’sNational Merit Award, and the Martin Luther King National Service Award by the Institute for the Advancementof Multicultural and Minority Medicine (IAMMM) both in Washington, DC. He is a recipient of the CTGovernor’s Patron of the Arts award, the National Council of Community and Justice’s (NCCJ) Human Relationsaward, the 2022 Bushnell’s Yandow Award for Arts Education, and the OnCon Icon 2020, 2021, and 2022 TopMarketer Award recognizing the top marketers in the world. He is a trained actor and a member of the Actor’s Equity Association. He is also a member of the ExecutiveLeadership Council (ELC), the National Association of Health Services Executives (NAHSE), and lifetime membersof the National Black MBA and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated.Floyd graduated from Lincoln University in Oxford, Pennsylvania, with a BS in History/Public Affairs. He receivedhis MBA in Marketing/Strategy from Pepperdine University’s Graziadio School of Business and Management,Malibu, California. He is a doctoral student at the University of Hartford focusing on Arts Education. Born inNewport News, Virginia, Floyd resides in Hartford, Connecticut. Meet Floyd W. Green, IIIClass of ‘81Retired VP of Community AffairsFounder of What a Concept, LLCFloyd W. Green, III, is a philanthropist and founder of What a Concept LLC,a company focused on creating wow moments through strategic philanthropy.In 2021, he retired as Vice President of Community Affairs from Aetna, a CVSHealth company. Because of his work, he speaks nationally on strategicphilanthropy, community engagement, cultural consciousness, localization, andmarketing to diverse consumers. He also advocates nationally the importanceof STEAM vs STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Math).2024 Honoree
Ms. Hollingsworth briefly started out as a Tax Lien & Mortgage Foreclosure Attorney and wassubsequently appointed an Administrative Law Judge. She worked for 9.5 years with New York CityDepartment of Finance, Parking Violations Bureau, and for the past 10 years as Senior Administrative LawJudge in the Traffic Violations Bureau of New York State Department of Motor Vehicles. Valarie is aproud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated for over 36 years, and is a Chartering Memberof the East Kings County Alumnae Chapter, Brooklyn, New York. Outside of work, she has served as aSeeds Coach for the Scholars Program, Seeds of Fortune, Inc., and is a Charter Member, and RegisteredParliamentarian of Gotham Parliamentarians of New York. She also served on Community Board 17 asthe Land Use Committee Chair. She is a member of the Neighborhood Advisory Board - Brooklyn 17,NYC Department of Youth & Community Development, Community Advisory Board for H+H Health &Hospitals - Kings County Hospital, and National AALU Life Member/NY Metro Chapter Member.Meet Valarie S. Hollingsworth, Esq.Class of ‘89Sr. Admin. Law JudgeTraffic Violations Bureau | NYS DMVValarie S. Hollingsworth, Esq., is a Proud Brooklynite raised by twoloving and hard working Guyanese Parents. She graduated fromBrooklyn Technical High School in 1984, and then went on to attendLincoln University of Pennsylvania where she received a Bachelor of ArtsDegree in 1989. In 1994 she earned a Master of Arts Degree fromTeachers College, Columbia University and then went on to earn a JurisDoctor Degree from Cleveland-Marshall College of Law, Cleveland StateUniversity. 2024 Honoree
Upon earning her undergraduate degree, she traveled to China for a year where she taught media classeswhile managing an international language school at the age of 23. While in China she worked as a freelancereporter, voice-over actress and was featured in commercials. When she returned to New York, she workedon a couple of music videos such as SZA’s Drew Barrymore, and Bon Jovi’s Scars on This Guitar. Soonafter, Melissa worked on the Tv-show Gotham and became a woman of WEEN (Women in EntertainmentEmpowerment Network.)A few short months later she became a Producer for HOT 97 and FOX 5’s Street Soldiers and later workedon the Netflix show She’s Gotta Have It and a few others. Outside of working on Network shows Melissahas also served as a Producer on a few Independent projects as well, some of her projects have beenacquired by Amazon and Revolt TV. Throughout all her experiences, her main objective is to inspirethought provoking conversations through creative and impactful content that will help shape a betternarrative around black and brown people. Melissa believes it is important to undo the harm the media hasused to create racial stereotypes around black people and provide a positive space where productiverepresentation of our culture exists. Because of strong passion, she and her colleague Antonio Leakscreated Black Legacy Film festival. Our film festival showcases black excellence! We showcase works fromcurrent HBCU students as well as graduates. We saw the importance of creating a platform that serves toamplify melanated voices, while celebrating creatives from HBCUs, in hopes to get more people of color inthe industry.Meet Melissa QuinonesClass of ‘14Founder of the Black Legacy Film FestivalProducerMelissa Quinones is a New York native, who graduated from the 1stHBCU, Lincoln University, with a degree in Mass Communications witha concentration in Broadcast journalism. She later began working forcompanies such as BET, Global Grind, FOX 5, NBC, HOT 97 and onvarious scripted shows such as White Collar, Madam Secretary,Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, etc. 2024 Honoree
When it came time to attend college, Travis decided to follow in his parents’ footsteps and pursue a careerin the health field. He graduated from Lincoln University in Pennsylvania with a bachelor’s degree inhealth science. He then went on to graduate school at West Chester University of Pennsylvania. During hisfirst semester, a professor’s life-changing advice inspired Travis to follow his heart and work in theentertainment industry. Meet Travis “TravQue” ThompsonClass of ‘12Actor/ComedianMost known as “TravQue,” Travis Thompson was born and raised inBrooklyn, N.Y. When he was only two years old, his mother sent him tolive in Jamaica, in hopes that the Caribbean influence and culture wouldinstill life-long principles and values in him. This upbringing was vital toTravis' foundation. At a very young age, he acquired technological skillsthat caused him to stand out among his peers. By the age of 11, he hadstellar video editing skills that have only advanced throughout the years.2024 HonoreeTravQue is now best known for his sensational videos on social media that have gone viral numerous timesacross platforms – some of which have reached over 100 million views. He also starred in the BET originalfilm, “Swag Inc”.Travis plans to continue creating content that fans will love, grow in the entertainment industry, and landmore roles that resonate with his audiences. He lives by the motto, “Stay Humble,Stay Working”, which is exactly what he plans to do.
In her current role, Darlene oversees mentoring programs and strategic initiatives aimed at empowering studentsand fostering their personal and academic growth within the NYC Public Schools system. She is a driving force onthe team that leads the Chancellors groundbreaking Project PIVOT initiative which made space for community-based organizations to bring programs into schools for youth. Through her innovative strategies and collaborativeapproach, she has played a pivotal role in creating impactful partnerships and implementing programs that addressthe diverse needs of students across the city. Darlene's commitment to excellence is evident in her track record of success, including her authorship of "Jordan'sFirst Day of School" and her contributions to "An Unfailing Legacy." Her ability to identify service delivery gapsand develop effective solutions has earned her recognition as a leader in the field. She is also the founder and CEOof Invest in You Inc. a company that hosts retreats, workshops and events that help women focus on self-care whilelearning to relax, relate and release with purpose. She is also an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.and believes deeply in sisterhood and community.Prior to her current position, Darlene has held key roles in program coordination, consulting, and communityoutreach, leaving a lasting impact on organizations and individuals alike. Her leadership in founding award-winninginitiatives such as the Youthful Inspirations journalism program and the R.O.S.E. female empowerment programreflects her passion for empowering youth and building stronger communities.Darlene continues to excel in program development and management, leveraging her skills to drive positive changeand create opportunities for student success. Her dedication to mentoring and strategic initiatives underscores hercommitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders and making a lasting impact on the educational landscapeof New York City.Darlene's visionary leadership, coupled with her unwavering commitment to youth development, positions her as acatalyst for transformation and a beacon of inspiration within the NYC Public Schools system and beyond.Meet Darlene Walker-MunginClass of ‘86Director of Mentoring Programs & Strategic Partnerships NYC Department of EducationDarlene Walker-Mungin is a visionary leader at the forefront of youthdevelopment and community engagement, currently serving as the Director ofMentoring and Strategic Initiatives for the New York City Public Schools.With a distinguished career marked by her expertise in program developmentand management, Darlene is renowned for her exceptional leadership,organizational prowess, and dedication to enriching the lives of youth.2024 Honoree
“If the son shall make you free, then ye shall be free indeed.”A Leader in Excellence- Lincoln University's Motto
yepitsanquinetteAnquinette Hayles T W I N M O M | C O N S U L T A N T | E D U C A T O R H I G H E R E D | O N - A I R T A L E N T | A U T H O RWWW.HERMONYNY.COMT a g u s @ H E R m o n y n yT a g u s @ H E R m o n y n ywww.thehaylescompany.com THE AALU NY METRO CHAPTER AND 2024 ALUMNI AWARDEESCongratulationsto
Lincoln University Alumni Awards GalaWinners of 2024Congratulations
THE AALU NY METRO CHAPTER AND 2024 ALUMNI AWARDEES ONAN OUTSTANDING OCCASION Alumni Association of Lincoln UniversityAlumni Association of Lincoln UniversityPhiladelphia ChapterPhiladelphia ChapterJOIN AALU-PHILA JOIN AALU-PHILA
on your recognition for life long commitment to service. Michael A. Francis, Esq.DARLENE WALKER-MUNGIN
https://dcmac-aalupa.orghttps://dcmac-aalupa.orgThe Light on the HillThe Light on the HillSuccessful Alumni Award GalaSuccessful Alumni Award GalaAALU AALU on aon aDC METRO ALUMNI C H A P T E R AA LUDC METRO ALUMNI C H A P T E R AA LUNEW YORK METRO CHAPTERNEW YORK METRO CHAPTERthethe
Congratulationsto the honorees on your AALU NY METRO Chapter, Inc. EXCELLENCE AWARDYour achievements are truly commendable, and we celebrate your dedication and hard work!The Ladies of Fascinators and Tea join Lincoln University inhonoring Valarie S. Hollingsworth. We extend oursincerest congratulations for this wonderful achievement.Wishing you even more success in the future. https://fascinatorsandtea.org/
With love and admiration, yourhusband and #1 supporter,Todd MunginYour family is incredibly proud of your hard workand dedication to the youth and their future. Weare proud of your outstanding achievements, mostrecently the successful Key Awards that youspearheaded. Your commitment to excellence andyour unwavering determination have been trulyinspiring. We know you will continue to achievegreat things.Congratulations Darlene,
https://www.ellabakerinstitute.org/Community connections, global impact.At the Ella Baker Institute (EBI), we livethrough the wisdom of our namesake: “Give lightand people will find the way.”IG: @WHENWEMETORGAsattah Kennedy | Monae SpearsWHEN WE MET is a Black-led non-profit organization,operated for the social benefits of the Black community.The mission of our organization is to uplift, unite,promote, and ensure the success of Black creatives.This also includes giving back to the community throughcharitable events such as; clothes drives, food dives, toydrives, and back to school drives.Congratulations classmate Floyd Green, III '81And all of the 2024 HonoreesThe Nation's First Degree-Granting HBCUAs the nation's first degree-granting Historically Black College and University (HBCU), LincolnUniversity has an important and impactful legacy to live up to. When you join the ranks of ourdiverse, international student body of more than 2,200, you'll be part of a learning communitybuilt on a culture of innovation and excellence. After graduating, you'll be welcomed into a rich,worldwide network of alumni who can open the door to countless career opportunities.https://www.lincoln.edu/
ALMA MATER LYRICSLINCOLN UNIVERSITY, PADE A R L INC O LN, DEA R LI N CO L N,TO TH E E W E 'LL E'E R BE TR U E.TH E G O LDE N HO U RS W E S P EN T BE N EAT HTH E D E AR O LD O RAN G E A N D B LUE ,WI L L L IVE FOR E'E R IN MEM ORY ,AS GU I DIN G ST A RS T HRO U GH LIF E ;FO R T H EE, OUR ALM A MA T ER DEA R ,WE ' LL RIS E IN OUR MIG H T.FO R W E LO V E E V 'RY INC H O F TH Y SA C RED SOI L ,EV ' RY TRE E ON THY CAM P US GRE E N;AN D F O R T H EE W ITH OUR MI G HTWE WI L L E V ER T OILTH A T T HOU MIG H TIE S T B E S U PRE M E.WE ' LL RAI S E T H Y S T AND A RD TO T HE S KY,MI D ST GLO R Y A N D H O NOR TO FLY .AN D C O NST A NT A ND T RUEWE WI L L L I VE F OR T HEE AN E W,OU R D E AR O LD O RAN G E A N D B LUE .HA I L! HAI L ! L I NCO L N.BY: A. DENNEE BIBB, 1911
THANK YOUWE HOPE TO SEE YOU AGAIN NEXT YEAR!