2025 Honorees

GRAND MARSHALS

Sandra Bookman is the co-anchor for “Eyewitness News” at noon. She joined the team in 1998 as a reporter and then quickly became weekend anchor. Additionally, she has hosted the weekly award-winning public affairs show “Here and Now” since 2013, a continuation of “Like It Is with Gil Noble,” a pioneering program for African American audiences.

Before working at WABC-TV, Bookman served as the weekend anchor at WSB-TV, an ABC affiliate in Atlanta for nine years. Prior to joining WSB-TV, she held weekend anchor positions at WRAL-TV in Raleigh, North Carolina, and KFDM-TV in Beaumont, Texas.

She served seven years reporting on the Olympics, covering major events prior to Atlanta winning the bid through the 1996 bombing, as well as the 1992 Barcelona games. Her international reporting includes coverage from South Africa after Nelson Mandela’s release in 1990.

Bookman has received nine local Emmy® Awards and recognition for her Olympic coverage and reporting on the ValueJet Airlines crash. In addition to her anchoring duties, she also participates in various community events. She recently co-hosted the Black Health Matters Harlem Week Summit and Expo in New York City on Aug. 14, 2025.

Bookman holds a Bachelor of Arts in journalism from the University of Texas.

Tony Allen is Chief Executive Officer of the nation’s most diverse, contemporary Historically Black College and University: Delaware State University. 

Delaware State University is a comprehensive research institution with a $180 million budget, a $50 million endowment, a $30 million research portfolio, and 900 employees in five academic colleges, serving more than 6,000 undergraduates, graduate students, and adult learners in Delaware, online, and internationally in 23 countries. 

Tony started his career as speechwriter for then-United States Senator Joseph R. Biden, Jr. In 2020, he was named Chief Executive Officer of the 59th Presidential Inaugural after having served on the Advisory Board of President Biden’s Transition Team. In 2021, he was appointed to the President’s Board of Advisors on Historically Black Colleges and Universities as Chair, a role in which he served until January 2025.

Before joining the University, Tony transitioned from speechwriting to a career in Communications within the financial services sector, beginning as Executive Vice President at MBNA America. He then led Communications for Bank of America’s largest divisions, founding and developing the Corporate Reputation group.

Tony has been awarded honors such as the Whitney M. Young Award for Advancing Racial Equality, the National Urban League’s highest honor; the Excellence in Education Award given by the Delaware Barristers Association; and Lifetime Achievement Awards from both the National Urban Fellows and Public Allies.

Founding President of the Metropolitan Wilmington Urban League, Cofounder of Public Allies Delaware, Chair Emeritus of the National Urban Fellows, and a Distinguished Fellow with the National Academy of Public Administration, Tony also serves on the Boards of Graham and Pepco Holdings.

Tony holds a B.A. in Political Science and a Ph.D. in Urban Affairs & Public Policy from the University of Delaware as well as a Master of Public Administration from Baruch College (City University of New York). He is the proud husband of Ms. Tara Allen and father of five fantastic children.

Dr. Patricia Ramsey, distinguished as a "National Role Model" by Minority Access, Inc., was appointed the sixth president of Medgar Evers College by the City University of New York (CUNY) Board of Trustees. Dr. Ramsey, who officially took office on May 1, 2021, is the first woman and the first scientist to serve as President of the College.

Under Dr. Ramsey’s leadership, a B.S. Degree Program in Community Health Education, an A.S. Degree Program in Criminal Justice, an accelerated second-degree Nursing Program leading to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), and a B.A.A degree in African Diaspora Literature has been approved by the CUNY Board of Trustees. Additionally, a minor in Cannabis Education was launched.

Dr. Ramsey has received numerous awards/recognitions since she began her service as President. She was named to City and States Brooklyn Power 100 list in 2021, 2022, and 2023.  Added to that distinction, Dr. Ramsey was named to City and State’s 2022 and 2023 Higher Education Power 100 list of the most influential leaders of colleges and universities in the state of New York.  She was also named to the Schneps Media Brooklyn Power List 2023. She received a 2023 Historian Award from the African American Clergy and Elected Officials (AACEO), the 2023 Greater New York Chamber Black History Award, the 2023 Civic Leadership Award from the Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement (HCCI), the 2023 Leadership Award for Excellence in Education and Social Justice from the D.R.E.A.M Foundation, the Panamanian Day Parade 2023 Education and Community Award, The White House Lifetime Achievement Award from President Biden, inducted as Honorary Chaplain of the Worldwide Small Churches International and the NYPD, named to the “Top 10 Most Influential Woman Leaders Transforming Education 2024” by CIO Views, along with a magazine cover story, and named one of “The Ten Most Dominant HBCU Leaders” in 2024.

Prior to Medgar Evers College, Dr. Ramsey served as a Senior Executive Fellow with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF).  Preceding that role, she served as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Lincoln University in Pennsylvania, and for nearly 12 years, she served in various capacities (Department Chair, Provost, and Interim President) at Bowie State University, a constituent institution of the University System of Maryland.

A biologist by training, Dr. Ramsey has a research interest in the biological activity of plants used in folklore, has collected 110 species of Agave in the Sonoran Desert, and traveled a 450-mile span of highway collecting Sapium sebiferum (popcorn tree) leaves in the southeastern United States. Dr. Ramsey earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology (Education) from Norfolk State University, a Master of Science in Botany from Howard University, a Master of Arts in Biology from Harvard University, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Biology from Georgetown

University. Dr. Ramsey completed leadership programs in the Millennium Leadership Initiative (MLI), Harvard University’s Institute for Educational Management (IEM), and the CIVIC Leadership Institute. Dr. Ramsey is married to Dr. Roscoe Ramsey Jr., a physician and a minister. They have three adult children.

Dr. Martin Lemelle, Jr. serves as the 11th President of Grambling State University, bringing a wealth of leadership experience, financial acumen, and a deep-seated commitment to advancing higher education. As a third-generation alumnus of the institution, Dr. Lemelle embodies a family legacy of higher education leadership and a profound dedication to the university's mission.

Prior to assuming the presidency, Dr. Lemelle served as the Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer at the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) in Baltimore, Maryland. His tenure at MICA was marked by visionary leadership and strategic financial management, enhancing the operations of the nation's oldest continuously degree-granting college of art and design.

With an extensive background in finance and operations that spans several prestigious organizations, including Pricewaterhouse Coopers, IBM, General Electric, Dean Foods, and Industry Retail Group, Dr. Lemelle has adeptly managed budgets collectively valued at approximately $6.5 billion. His track record highlights his exceptional ability to steward large-scale financial operations and drive organizational success.

Dr. Lemelle played a pivotal role in shaping the future of Grambling State University during his tenure as Executive Vice-President and Chief Operating Officer. His accomplishments include securing the university's most substantial corporate gift to date and significantly improving its fiscal health score by 200%, underscoring his strategic insight and unwavering dedication to the institution's financial stability and growth.

Educationally, Dr. Lemelle holds a B.S. in Accounting, Magna Cum Laude, from Grambling State University, an M.B.A. from The George Washington University, and a Doctorate in Business Administration from SKEMA Business School in Paris, France.

His service extends to numerous memberships, including Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., where he is a recipient of the Byron K. Armstrong Award, and United Way of Central Maryland Board of Directors, where he serves as treasurer.

Dr. Lemelle's presidency at Grambling State University is guided by a vision that respects the institution’s history and traditions while focusing on co-creating strategic initiatives for the future. His leadership is informed by a comprehensive understanding of higher education challenges and opportunities, driving his commitment to ensuring that Grambling State University remains at the forefront of innovation, academic excellence, and community engagement.

Dr. Bob Lee, DCS, aka “The Doctor," has been a prominent figure in New York City media since 1980.  He is an on-air personality and the Community Affairs Director at WBLS 107.5 FM, New York. 

By 1986, under the guidance of legendary hosts Hal Jackson and Frankie Crocker, he became a staple on the weekend edition of the “Quiet Storm” with the smooth baritone voicings of Vaughn Harper. Not long after, he became an integral part of the highly popular “Morning Show” with Ken Webb, in which he developed the “On Time” program, encouraging students to stay in school, be on time, and get a good education.

As part of his community-based work, Dr. Lee frequently appears in Harlem as the host of live events, including Harlem Summer Stage, the Apollo Theater.  Dr. Lee also serves as a host and an Advisory Board Member for the annual African American Day Parade, Inc. 

Dr. Lee is the President, Founder, and CEO of Make the Grade Foundation, a non-profit organization that provides mentoring and aid to school children. The foundation aims to improve academic achievement by fostering collaboration between parents, teachers, students, and community members. 

Weekly, Dr. Lee hosts an interactive talk show called, “Open,” which broadcasts on BronxNet, a cable television station serving the Bronx and upper Manhattan. The program features news, educational profiles, and musical guests.

Through entertainment and community service, he is committed to building a better future for youth.  He is a published author, "7 Ways to Make the Grade: A Living Guide to Your Community's Success", which focuses on community involvement in education, and People to Know in Black History & Beyond, highlighting notable contributors who have sacrificed and aspired to greatness. Through his books, Lee hopes to encourage youth to follow their example by living life with purpose, while building their own legacy and becoming leaders. 

Dr. Lee also helps college students interested in radio careers by serving as a mentor for “Table for Two,” a weekly music program which broadcasts from WLIU 88.1 FM radio in Brooklyn, which is staffed by interns from Long Island University. 

Doctor Bob Lee, DCS, earned his Doctorate of Community Ministries (D.Cm) degree at the New Seminary for Interfaith Studies. He holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Arts in Communications from New York Institute of Technology.

2025 Marshals

Jean E. Jeanty is the Principal of Pugsley Preparatory Academy Middle School in the Bronx. After spending seven years as a high school special education teacher, Jeanty transitioned into school administration after a mentor imparted, “Black children need to see Black men in positions of leadership.” As a school leader, Jeanty has created a learning space that develops and celebrates the unique experiences, identities, values and talents of his teachers, students, staff, community members and himself as a visual artist. His unique perspective as both an educator and artist has allowed him to build connections with students to utilize artistic expression as a means to cope with stress, anxiety and the pressures of life. As a product of NYC Public Schools, Jeanty understands the critical role that educators play in shaping the lives of students and has dedicated his life to be an exemplar that all children, regardless of race, neighborhood, family dynamic, gender, religion, socio-economic status, or disability, can reach their fullest unapologetic potential.

Ms. Francina, as referred to at her school, is a proud educator and lifelong learner with nearly two decades of experience teaching and leading in K-8 schools. She began her journey with Amber Charter Schools in 2007 as a teacher in East Harlem and has since served in various leadership roles, including Dean of Students and Assistant Principal. Most recently, in 2021, she was the Founding Assistant Principal at Amber’s Inwood campus and has since led as Principal of the elementary school. 

Ms. Francina holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Childhood Education from St. John’s University, a Master’s in Reading Literacy, and an Advanced Certificate in School Leadership and Supervision from Hunter College. A committed advocate for student success, she is passionate about supporting students, teachers, and families at all levels and building strong school culture and communities. She is also a proud Amber parent; her daughter is an alumna of the East Harlem campus.

Member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Delta Alpha Lambda Zeta Chapter of West Brooklyn. 

Shawn F. Brown, Ph.D., is a seasoned educational leader with extensive experience in fostering positive and collaborative learning environments. Currently serving as Principal of Uniondale High School, Dr. Brown is dedicated to implementing rigorous academic standards while prioritizing student well-being. He is committed to building strong relationships with students, staff, parents, and the community, and actively engages in ongoing professional development to enhance his leadership skills and best practices in education.

Prior to his current role, Dr. Brown served as Principal of E.B.C. High School for Public Service, where he successfully improved school test scores, attendance rates, and overall school performance. He has also held positions as an Adjunct Professor at Brooklyn College (C.U.N.Y.) and a Mandel Washington Mentor at Rutgers University.

Dr. Brown is the author of "ARTS-BASED RESEARCH AND THE PRACTICE OF FREEDOM IN EDUCATION" (BRILL PUBLISHING, 2024) and "THE GREEN BOOK FOR BLACK FOLKS IN EDUCATION" (Rowman and Littlefield Publishers, 2024). He is also the author of the dissertation "Black Males Matter, the Educational Marathon Continues: The Relative Impact of Student-, Family-, and School-Level Domains on the Educational Outcomes of Black Males" 1 (The Graduate Center, City University of New York, 2020

Celebrity Grand Marshal

KARYN WHITE

A two-time Grammy-nominated trailblazer of R&B, pop, dance, and New Jack Swing, Karyn White helped define the sound—and the spirit—of a generation. With her international anthem “Superwoman,” she gave voice to women’s strength, independence, and vulnerability—creating a timeless rallying cry that still resonates today.

Her string of No. 1 hits—including “The Way You Love Me,” “Romantic,” “Secret Rendezvous,” “Love Saw It” (with Babyface), and “The Way I Feel About You”—lit up the R&B, pop, and dance charts, shifting the culture along the way. Bold, soulful, and always ahead of the curve, Karyn fused music, fashion, and attitude—bringing fearless femininity and high-glam energy to every performance. She didn’t follow trends—she set them. In her own lane. In her own way. That’s Karyn White fashion.

A multi-platinum international recording artist and electrifying live performer, Karyn continues to tour the world, captivating audiences with her powerful voice, iconic catalog, and commanding stage presence.

Beyond music, she is a film producer, screenwriter, actress, and music supervisor, best known for her semi-autobiographical film Gale and The Storm, currently streaming on Tubi. As CEO of Karyn White Enterprises (KWE), she leads a creative brand rooted in soul, legacy, and fearless reinvention.

A true renaissance woman, Karyn is also a style trailblazer, philanthropist, interior designer, real estate investor, honorary Doctor of Humanities, and—most proudly—a devoted mother. With accolades from Billboard, the NAACP, and the 2022 Black Music Honors Soul Music Icon Award, she remains a visionary force in music, film, and culture.

Some PAST HONOREES include..