This year, the Tennessee Black Caucus of State Legislators (TBCSL) is honoring a distinguished group of African American leaders for their work motivating, uplifting, and inspiring Black Tennesseans. The honorees hail from all across the state and were celebrated at an event in Nashville last month. The acclaimed group and their awards are as follows:
The ‘Rep. Clarence B. Robinson Champion of Innovative Achievement Award’ went to Pam Brown, the executive director of the Granville T. Woods (GTW) Academy of Innovation in Memphis. Brown has lead efforts to use Artificial Intelligence as a tool to bridge the gap for students performing below proficiency. Brown forged a unique partnership with other area companies to develop a personalized AI tutor aligned with GTW’s curriculum that provides 24/7 academic support and expands access to high-quality learning opportunities for all students.
Fisk University student Jermaine Cole, Jr. is the recipient of the ‘Rep. Harold M. Love, Sr. Empowerment Through Education Award.’ The Nashville native is a rising young activist who is dedicated to addressing gun violence prevention, immigrant rights, and political accountability across the state. A passionate community organizer, Cole has spoken at rallies, vigils, and student marches at the Tennessee State Capitol, urging lawmakers to take action on pressing social and economic issues and inspiring his generation to become active advocates for justice and equality.
Marilyn Brown was honored with the ‘Rep. Barbara W. Cooper Labors of Love Achievement Award.’ A retired union member from Bridgestone, Brown is a tireless advocate for labor and civic engagement across the state of Tennessee. As chairperson of the State Labor Committee for the NAACP, she works passionately to ensure labor voices are active in politics by registering voters, educating the community, and personally making sure they get to the polls. Known as the ultimate ‘super volunteer,’ Brown’s commitment to service, justice and community empowerment inspires all who work alongside her.
The ‘Rep. Lois M. DeBerry Transformative Political Leadership in Equity Award’ this year honored Mayor Gene Bowden, the first Black mayor of Whiteville, Tennessee. Elected in August after receiving over 40% of the citywide vote, the former president of a Connecticut NAACP chapter, Mayor Bowden said he was inspired by local residents to run for office. Driven by a desire to bring unity and progress to his hometown, Bowden is focusing on revitalizing the city and hopes to establish a museum honoring its rich Black history.
The work of Kimberly Black was recognized with the ‘Rep. Alvin M. King Best in Business Award.’ Black is an accomplished entrepreneur and community leader based in Knoxville where she heads Trusted Field Services, an award-winning company celebrated for advancing diversity and economic opportunity. Active on numerous boards (including the Junior League of Knoxville and the Boys & Girls Club), she was honored with the ‘2024 YWCA Tribute to Women in Business and Industry Award’ for her leadership in creating jobs and empowering justice-involved individuals through workforce opportunities.
Keith L. Foster, Sr. is a community-focused real estate developer dedicated to revitalizing underserved neighborhoods in Knoxville. The ‘Rep. Avon Williams Community Development Award’ honoree is a Knoxville College graduate who began his career as a music executive before turning to real estate, where he leverages his entrepreneurial spirit to transform communities. He also serves on the board of the Make-A-Wish Foundation and is recognized for bridging business, government, and grassroots efforts to drive lasting, positive change.
TBCSL Chair Rep. Jesse Chism of Memphis said: “I’m proud to presents these awards to this distinguished list of honorees who represent the true spirit of Tennessee. I’m also thankful to our sponsors: Amazon; Abundant Capital Group; Tennessee Cable and Broadband Association; Baptist Memorial Health Care; Merck; Wealth Management Partners, LLC; the University of Tennessee Health Science Center; Mojo Mktg.; and Trusted Field Services for their support in celebrating the accomplishments of this note-worthy group.”
