By GDRA Contributor • Dayton Weekly News Who We Are The Greater Dayton Realtist Association (GDRA)  is a proud local chapter of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB) —America’s oldest minority real estate trade association. Founded in 2005, GDRA unites real estate professionals, community advocates, and allies committed to opening doors of homeownership, wealth-building, and fair housing for Black and minority families  across the Miami Valley. Our Purpose & Mission At GDRA, we champion the mission of “Democracy in Housing”  by: Expanding Black homeownership in Dayton and surrounding communities Providing education, advocacy, and professional training for Realtists Empowering consumers through workshops on financial literacy, credit, and estate planning Addressing systemic barriers to wealth through civic engagement, policy, and revitalization A Brief History of Impact The Realtist movement  began in 1947 as a response to redlining and housing discrimination. In 2005, local leaders founded GDRA  to bring this legacy of equity and empowerment to Southwest Ohio. Since then, GDRA has: Trained dozens of Realtist professionals Helped families achieve sustainable homeownership Advocated for tax fairness, down payment support, and fair appraisals Hosted annual Realtist Week  events to educate the community Our Vision for the Future GDRA is committed to making Dayton a model city for housing equity . Upcoming initiatives include: A Youth Realtist Program  to introduce high schoolers to real estate careers Tools to support heirs’ property protection  and generational wealth transfer Partnerships to revitalize abandoned properties  and reduce neighborhood blight Advocacy for affordable housing  and equitable lending policies Why It Matters The racial wealth gap  continues to grow—and unequal access to homeownership is a major cause. Black homeownership rates still lag nearly 30% behind White households . In Dayton, GDRA is on the front lines, working to close that gap—because homeownership is more than a roof. It’s the foundation of family stability , community investment , and generational wealth. Join the Movement Whether you’re a first-time buyer , seasoned investor , or a passionate community member , there’s a place for you in GDRA. 👉 Attend a monthly meeting 👉 Join a workshop 👉 Get involved in housing equity advocacy Learn more or become a member at: greaterdaytonrealtist.com Or email: info@greaterdaytonrealtist.com About the Author Traci Martin  is a contributing writer for Dayton Weekly News  and a community advocate for equity in housing, wealth-building, and Black economic empowerment.

The Dayton Dragons unveiled the Dragons Diamond Club Get ready, Dayton—Day Air Credit Union Ballpark is stepping up to the plate with a game-changer! On June 3, 2025, the Dayton Dragons unveiled the Dragons Diamond Club, a $6 million, state-of-the-art event center set to transform downtown’s entertainment scene. Blending urban never seen before upscale vibes, this sleek venue—complete with folding glass walls, killer field views, and a high-tech edge—celebrates over 25 years of Dragons baseball while hitting a home run for weddings, corporate events, and more. Opening with a soft launch in fall 2025, this is one debut you won’t want to miss! What Sets It Apart   The Dragons Diamond Club isn’t just another event room—it’s a showstopper, bringing a diverse audience together,” says Robert Murphy, a key figure behind the project. Here’s what makes it special:   - High-tech sound system and 98-inch TVs for an immersive experience.   - Floor-to-ceiling folding glass windows with panoramic views that tie the indoors to the vibrant ballpark atmosphere.   - Indoor seating for 200, perfect for weddings, corporate gigs, or private bashes.   - 110 premium outdoor seats on the second level with killer sightlines of the field, a buffet, a full kitchen, and expanded restrooms.   This sleek setup is backed by a powerhouse partnership with the Cincinnati Bengals organization. Robert Murphy called it “astounding” and a “real team effort,” underscoring the collaboration that’s birthing this gem. Fall Soft Launch on Deck   Though the announcement hit in June, the Dragons Diamond Club will ease into action this fall with a soft launch. This trial run lets the team fine-tune operations—think food, drinks, and security—before the full rollout. “The soft opening is very valuable to us,” Murphy noted, hinting at a flawless experience when it’s game-on, Batter up! Event planners, take note: holiday bookings will likely vanish fast. Boosting Dayton Year-Round   Open 365 days a year, the $6 million, 5,000-square-foot venue is built to draw a diverse audience for the ultimate baseball-themed experience in a spacious, unforgettable way. With a folding glass system blurring indoor-outdoor lines, 98-inch TVs, and a top-notch sound system, it’s ready for anything—fraternity parties, upscale weddings, you name it.   The economic perks are just as big. The Dragons Diamond Club will create jobs and promotions for current staff, plus opportunities for locals—high schoolers, college students, and retirees—keeping the Water Street District buzzing. Murphy revealed a celebrity softball game featuring Bengals players and coaches is in the works, tying the Dragons’ NFL partners into the grand debut. Be Part of the Action   Nestled in downtown’s Water Street District, with a new batting cage below and skyline views above, this venue is set to rewrite Dayton’s sports playbook. The fall soft launch is your first shot to check it out. Want in? Reach out to dragons@daytondragons.com   for booking details or updates. Dayton’s about to get a whole lot livelier—join the excitement!

West Dayton is soaring with the Townes at Wright-Dunbar, a dynamic townhome project by Charles Simms Development at 1013 West Third Street, Dayton, OH 45402. This isn’t just housing—it’s a bold urban renaissance in the historic Wright-Dunbar district, where the legacy of the Wright Brothers and poet Paul Laurence Dunbar meets modern zest. Charles Simms, a family-run home builder with nearly a century of crafting exquisite neighborhoods, continues its legacy. “Thank you to the City of Dayton for all their help; we could not have done it without you guys,” said Charles Simms’ fourth-generation sons at the June 3, 2025, ribbon-cutting, joined by Mayor Jeffrey J. Mims and city officials. “This means the world to us that you are all here!” they added, marking a new chapter. The 26 sleek, three-story Aviator floor plan townhomes boast 1323 square feet of brick elegance: two bedrooms, two baths, a powder room, 9-foot open ceilings, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and tech-smart features. Priced from $274,900, they blend affordability and luxury, with three units sold and 23 available. Private balconies invite residents to soak in West Dayton’s vibrant pulse, while a 15-year property tax exemption makes ownership more attainable. Low-maintenance living includes snow removal, lawn care, exterior upkeep, and customizable interiors. Ribbon Cutting Cermenoy for the Townes at Wright-Dunbar “Wright-Dunbar has had $1 million invested from the City of Dayton,” said Shelley Dickstein, highlighting the area’s revival. These townhomes transform once-blighted factory sites into market-rate gems. Mayor Mims, a Dayton native, shared, “Here Dayton has more right now, but with more and more to come. Now we cross the new bridge to an appealing, modernized housing unit—it’s a game changer.” Dickstein added, “Housing is really important in the City of Dayton; market rate brings value to our homes.” Steps from local eateries, historic landmarks, downtown’s Neon Theater, Dayton Dragons baseball, performing arts, and Fourth of July views, the Townes at Wright-Dunbar offer a lifestyle that’s rooted yet exhilarating. For details or to secure your unit, contact Heather Soltis at Charles Simms Development: heather@simmsdev.com . This aviation-inspired development redefines West Dayton as a beacon of hope, history, and bold new beginnings.

Living Color Art Exhibition June 5-11 at the Edward A Dixon Gallery. Regional artists will participate in group exhibition titled “Living Color” at the Edward A. Dixon Gallery from June 5th to July 11th. The exhibition is a celebration of color and the vibrancy of life. Several of the participating artists will attend an Opening Reception at the gallery on June 5th from 6pm-9pm. Living Color features 12 artists from the Dayton, Middletown, Cincinnati and Columbus area. Each artist will feature their own unique style that will come together in this show curated by gallery owner Ed Dixon. “Showcasing our talented, local artists is one of the gallery’s missions and what better way to do that in the Springtime than a show full of color and life?” stated Mr. Dixon. Artwork styles in the exhibition will range from portrait, floral, wildlife to abstract paintings. Expect mediums of glass, found objects, acrylic, oil, photography and mixed media. Mr. Dixon commented “The exhibition will have something for everyone and will be a real challenge for me to install but ultimately will present a great viewing experience for visitors to the gallery.” Exhibiting artists from Dayton include Shon Curtis, Ron Rollins, Evelyn “Hadeev” Hargrove, Alisa H. Workman, Tobi Ewing, Hadley Rodebeck, Hyacinth Paul and Zuri Ali. Other artists include Michael Surber from Middletown, April Sunami from Columbus, Cedric Michael Cox from Cincinnati, and the late Julio Antonio Pino Varens from Cuba. The exhibition opens with an Opening Reception on Thursday, June 5th from 6pm-9pm and will close with a reception on June 11th from 6pm-8pm. Both receptions are free and open to the public and will include lite refreshments. Other programming may be included, which will be announced on the gallery’s social media pages and website. On-street parking is also available. About Edward A. Dixon Gallery The Edward A. Dixon Gallery is a commercial art gallery specializing in the exhibition, education, appreciation and sale of International Fine Art. The gallery’s website is shop.eadgallery.com and features updates on hours of operation, new art and exhibitions. Located at 222 N. St. Clair Street in Downtown Dayton. For more information, contact Ed Dixon Phone: (937) 313-7886 Email: info@eadgallery.com

Collaboration, Investment, and Vision Through 2030 Downtown Dayton, Ohio Skyline (Photo by Michael Bowman) By RoShawn Winburn, Dayton Weekly News The Dayton Business Journal hosted a powerful and forward-looking panel on June 3, 2025, at Sinclair Community College’s Ponitz Center, exploring the future of Downtown Dayton. Moderated by Dayton Business Journal Editor, Caleb Stephens, the panel featured key regional leaders: Shelley Dickstein (Dayton City Manager), Katie Meyer (President, Downtown Dayton Partnership), Bob Ruzinsky (CEO, Greater Dayton Regional Transit Authority), and Gabriel Van Aalst (President & CEO, Dayton Live). Dayton Weekly News was present to witness and capture the momentum driving the heart of our city. A Unified Vision for Growth The panelists conveyed a shared commitment to transforming Downtown Dayton into a vibrant, inclusive, and economically dynamic hub. With seamless collaboration evident on stage, each leader offered insight into the initiatives already shaping the downtown landscape and those yet to come. Key Economic Highlights $22M in city investment has leveraged $500M in private development since 2021. Over 1,000 new housing units, 600 jobs, and 208 hotel rooms have been added. The Entrepreneur Center surpassed $1 billion in economic impact in 2024, with 32 ventures securing $172 million in equity investment. Major projects like The Arcade and the $130 million Center City Project are reshaping downtown’s core. Safety and Perception Addressing public safety, the city has committed $10 million for a new downtown police station and a real-time crime center. City leaders emphasized technology, visibility, and community engagement as key to reducing crime and improving perceptions of downtown safety. Mobility and Access Greater Dayton RTA’s contributions extended beyond transit. CEO Bob Ruzinsky highlighted investments in community-centered developments like the Schuster Center and the Air City Garage, while also focusing on new outreach and rider education programs to expand access and inclusion. Arts as an Economic Engine Dayton Live’s Gabriel Van Aalst noted the 400,000+ annual attendees drawn to downtown arts venues, which generate $35 million in economic activity. Collaborative programming with Dayton Public Schools and others is aimed at deepening engagement and building the next generation of supporters. Challenges and Opportunities While celebrating progress, panelists acknowledged challenges: The need for more housing and office space to attract residents and entrepreneurs. Better integration of neighborhoods divided by infrastructure, such as the reimagining of US 35. A renewed push for inclusive planning, especially engaging small and minority-owned businesses earlier in major downtown events. Looking Forward to 2030 By the end of the decade, Dayton leaders envision: 10,000 total housing units downtown A fully operational Amtrak return, reconnecting Dayton to regional rail A revitalized Courthouse Square and expanded public gathering spaces Action Items for Stakeholders Deepen public-private collaboration to build on existing momentum. Involve small businesses early in planning and activation of major events. Use storytelling and marketing to counter negative perceptions and celebrate the city’s authentic identity. Continue investment in safety, infrastructure, and mobility to support growth. Leverage arts and culture as both community anchors and economic drivers. A Call for Community Ambassadors Panelists closed with a call to action: each resident, visitor, and business owner has a role in shaping the narrative of Downtown Dayton. From riding the bus to attending a play, supporting a local café to mentoring a startup - everyone has a part to play in ensuring downtown remains not just a destination, but a daily source of pride. The Downtown Dayton Partnership keeps the community aware of what's going on downtown. Take a look at what's happening downtown, and plan a visit today! https://downtowndayton.org/things-to-do/

Juanita-Michelle Darden is the Director of the Greater West Dayton Incubator and founder of the Soul Food Cafe. The University of Dayton has named alumna, educator, community advocate and entrepreneur Juanita-Michelle Darden as director of the Greater West Dayton Incubator. Darden brings experience founding popular local dining options Soul Food Carryout and the former Third Perk Coffeehouse & Wine Bar. She also has a background in education, including 12 years as a tenured associate professor of mathematics at Sinclair Community College, where she was instrumental in developing programs aimed at reducing barriers to success in mathematics for underrepresented students. Darden holds a master of science in education from UD. “She brings a passion for community and a proven track record of lifting underrepresented entrepreneurs,” said Vince Lewis, UD’s associate vice president of entrepreneurial initiatives. “She has created spaces that celebrate local talent, build connections and drive real economic growth. We’re excited to see her lead the Greater West Dayton Incubator.” Darden outlined three priorities for the incubator: increasing awareness and use of resources among Greater West Dayton entrepreneurs; reactivating the advisory council to ensure community voices shape the incubator’s direction; and overseeing the launch of its permanent space. "I'm honored to lead the Greater West Dayton Incubator and to work alongside passionate entrepreneurs and community members," Darden said. "Together, we'll build a more inclusive and prosperous future for West Dayton." The incubator, an initiative between the University of Dayton's L. William Crotty Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership and The Entrepreneurs' Center, supports underrepresented and under resourced entrepreneurs through micro-lending, consulting and educational programs. Since 2020, the incubator has worked with over 350 entrepreneurs, helping to secure more than $80,000 in micro-loans, $100,000 in equity grants and nearly $400,000 in contracts for underrepresented business owners through University of Dayton partnerships. This article was written by Daphne Graeter and originally appeared in the Dayton Daily News , June 5, 2025.

11th Annual "Making Memories" Golf Classic to End Alzheimer's Monday, June 16, 2025. The “Making Memories” Golf Classic is an impactful event aimed at raising awareness and funds to combat Alzheimer’s disease. By participating in this golf classic, you become an essential part of the movement to eradicate this devastating condition. Your involvement not only enhances the event but also contributes significantly to the ongoing fight against Alzheimer’s. Event Highlights This event promises not only a day of golf but also an opportunity to connect with fellow advocates for social justice and Alzheimer’s awareness. Cedric D. Howard, the founder of the initiative, expresses his enthusiasm for the camaraderie that will be fostered on the greens, as participants come together to support a noble cause. "The “Making Memories” Golf Classic is our way to pay it forward towards the goal of eradicating the world of this disease. Your participation is a great asset to the cause. I hope that you will continue to be an advocate for Alzheimer’s awareness and be encouraged that you have already helped make a difference. We hope to one day soon be able to say that we played a part in helping to end the world of Alzheimer’s." - Cedric D. Howard Make a Difference Your participation sends a powerful message about the importance of Alzheimer’s awareness and advocacy. The funds raised will directly benefit the “Making Memories” Golf Classic to End Alzheimer’s Disease Fund, a component of the African-American Community Fund at The Dayton Foundation. This ensures that your contributions are effectively utilized in the fight against Alzheimer’s. Together, we can make a lasting impact. To join us in this essential cause and help pave the way for a future free of Alzheimer’s disease, visit   https://www.golf2endalz.com/ . Event Supporters

Former OSU Star Reinvents Himself as a Motivational Author By Donerik Black, The Dayton Weekly News When you think of a college football star, you may not immediately picture a rapper, an attorney, or an author. But Mekka Don has never followed the expected playbook—and now, he’s written his own. Born Chukwuemeka Nnamdi Onyejekwe, the former Ohio State Buckeye wide receiver has added yet another title to his multifaceted resume: published author. His new book, Buckle Up: The Playbook: 5 Winning Plays for Go-Getters, is part memoir, part motivational guide, and fully grounded in real-life grit. In a candid and inspiring interview with Dayton Weekly News, Mekka Don opens up about the turns in his journey, the power of community, and the lessons he hopes will resonate most—especially with young Black men navigating their own path to greatness. DWN: Your story is one of reinvention—athlete, artist, actor, lawyer, and now author. What inspired you to write this book, and why now? Mekka Don: I’ve worn a lot of hats over the years, but at the core of it all has been a desire to chase purpose, push past limits, and inspire. Writing Buckle Up came from a place of reflection—looking back on my wins, failures, and pivots, and realizing the lessons I learned could help someone else. With all the uncertainty in the world today, I felt now was the time to share the plays that helped me bet on myself. It’s part memoir, part motivation, part blueprint. DWN: How did your experience at Ohio State shape your perspective on perseverance and success? Mekka Don: Being a student-athlete at Ohio State meant navigating pressure and high expectations while balancing academics and football. It taught me that success isn’t just about talent— it’s about discipline and how you respond when things don’t go your way. I had to figure out who I was beyond the jersey, and that mindset has carried me through every pivot since. DWN: The title Buckle Up suggests a wild ride. What’s the message you most want readers— especially young Black men—to take from this book? Mekka Don: I want them to know that their path may not be straight, but it’s still valid. You don’t have to fit into one box. This book is about owning your story and doing what others won’t. Your dreams are possible—but you’ve got to stay locked in, ready for adversity, and willing to work. Buckle up—because your ride matters. Mekka Don - rapper, actor, athlete, lawyer. DWN: How do your many identities—rapper, actor, athlete, lawyer— show up in your writing? Mekka Don: They’re all part of the same story. Being an athlete taught me teamwork. Law sharpened how I think. Music helped me express what words couldn’t. Acting taught me empathy. When I write, I bring all of that with me. That’s why Buckle Up feels real— it’s not theory, it’s lived experience. DWN: How do you stay grounded through the ups and downs? Mekka Don: Faith, family, and purpose keep me centered. I celebrate small wins, journal, stay active, and talk to my people. Vulnerability is strength. What keeps me moving forward is knowing someone needs to hear the message— that they might believe in their power because I didn’t quit. DWN: For young people here in Dayton who feel like their dreams are out of reach, what would you say? Mekka Don: I’d say this: your environment doesn’t define your possibility. Dreams don’t have zip codes. You can pop from anywhere. All it takes is one move, one decision, one “yes” to yourself. Buckle Up is for you—because if I can do it, so can you. DWN: How have your faith, family, and community helped guide you? Mekka Don: They’re everything. Faith gives me peace. Family holds me accountable. And my community—from Ohio State to Columbus to Dayton— has poured into me in ways I can’t repay. You don’t rise alone. You rise with your village. DWN: Can you give us a sneak peek into one of your most personal chapters? Mekka Don: Chapter 4: “Go to War with Self-Doubt.” That chapter is deeply personal because I’ve battled that silently, often. Whether it was leaving law or entering new spaces, doubt always came knocking. But I moved anyway. That chapter is for anyone fighting that silent war. You’ve got more in you than you know. DWN: How do you define success today? Mekka Don: Success is alignment and impact. Not titles or trophies—but doing work that reflects who I am and helps others. If someone is inspired to move, heal, or believe because of me, that’s success. “Buckle Up: The Playbook” is a guide for any go-getter or individual ready to make some positive change in their life. In the book, Mekka Don gives 5 “Plays” that helped him fight to overcome self-doubt and the pressures of societal norms. Many of us go through life feeling stuck, insecure, and unsure of what to do next. This book will change that! Get the book on Amazon and find more from Mekka Don at MekkaDonEnterprises.com DWN: Is this book the start of a new chapter? Mekka Don: Without a doubt. This is a seed. I want to bring The Playbook to schools, prisons, and boardrooms—anywhere people need to be reminded of their power. More books, music, talks, and my documentary Buckle Up: The Soundtrack of Champions, which drops June 16 on YouTube — it’s all part of the mission. I’m just getting started. DWN: Anything else you’d like to share with our readers? Mekka Don: Huge shout out to my mentor Gene Smith for writing the foreword, and to my business partners Hall of Famer Cris Carter and his brother Jeff Davis for their support. Follow me @MekkaDonMusic and check out my website www.mekkadonenterprises.com. Thank you for the love, Dayton. Buckle Up: The Playbook: 5 Winning Plays for Go-Getters is available now. Whether you’re navigating a pivot, chasing your first dream, or climbing your next mountain, this book delivers the plays and the belief to get you there.

A family night out hosted by the Sophia Learning Center Thursday, June 5th at the Orbit Fun Center. The month of June marks National Family Month and the return of Sophia Learning Center’s annual friend raiser, Gospel on Skates – Family Night! On Thursday, June 5, 2025, Sophia Learning Center, a Christ-centered preschool in Kettering, will host its fourth Gospel on Skates – Family Night from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at Orbit Fun Center in Huber Heights (5001 Nebraska Ave, Huber Heights, OH 45424). This event will bring out nearly 200 individuals and families of all ages for a family-friendly evening of skating, good (clean) music, performances, family themed raffles and giveaways and head-to-head family games. Gospel on Skates serves as friend raiser for Sophia Learning Center. The school, which accepts students ages 3, 4 and 5, has kicked-off enrollment for its 2025-26 school year which will begin on August 18, 2025. At the Gospel on Skates event, families will be able to meet the staff, learn more about Sophia Learning Center, its programs and its mission to train up world changers by ensuring that students have a firm foundation in Jesus Christ as well as a firm foundation in reading and math prior to heading off to kindergarten. Tickets for Gospel on Skates – Family Night are $10.00. Concessions will be available separately for purchase. To purchase tickets, visit https://www.sophialearningcenter.org/gospel-on-skates . All proceeds from the event will benefit Sophia Learning Center and help the school grow. About the Sophia Learning Center Founded in 2019, the Sophia Learning Center is a Christ-centered preschool that prepares students to successfully navigate the school system. Through traditional teaching methods, biblical wisdom principles, small group instruction, experiential learning field trips and daily fun hands-on activities, we equip students with the reading fundamentals, math skills and strategies to be Kindergarten ready, know who they are in Christ and ultimately grow up to become world changers.

By GDRA Contributor • Dayton Weekly News Empowering Homebuyers, One Workshop at a Time This summer, the Greater Dayton Realtist Association (GDRA)  made significant progress toward its mission of “Democracy in Housing”  by hosting a powerful series of free homebuyer education workshops  throughout June 2025. Held at Central State University in Dayton , the sessions were made possible through partnerships with: PNC Bank Fifth Third Bank Wright‑Patt Credit Union DayAir Credit Union Civista Bank Chase Bank First Financial Bank Workshop Highlights Offered nearly every week, each two-hour session  covered key homeownership topics, including: ✅ Building and improving credit ✅ Understanding mortgage types ✅ Saving for a down payment ✅ Estimating closing costs ✅ Financial planning for homeownership Attendees included first-time buyers , growing families , and generational wealth builders —all seeking guidance in an approachable, interactive format that featured real-time Q&A with real estate and lending experts . Closing the Gap Through Education These workshops directly supported families— especially in Dayton’s underserved Black communities —where access to financing and trustworthy housing education has too often been out of reach. This effort is central to GDRA’s mission of: Promoting affordable homeownership Fighting systemic inequities in housing Closing the racial wealth gap By uniting trusted financial partners  and community advocates , GDRA positioned itself as both educator and advocate , reinforcing the belief that knowledge is a key to ownership . Impact & Participant Feedback ✔️ Dozens of families walked away with clarity and confidence ✔️ Many expressed feeling empowered  and “finally ready” to start the homebuying journey ✔️ Participants appreciated the real-world advice  and cultural relatability  of GDRA’s presenters These workshops are more than just educational—they’re a blueprint for transformation , helping individuals and families make generational shifts through ownership . GDRA’s Holistic Approach to Housing GDRA is powered by a dynamic network of professionals: Real Estate Professionals Finance & Lending Experts Insurance & Home Services Providers Legal & Advocacy Leaders Educators & Community Developers Together, this coalition takes a comprehensive approach  to housing access— educating, empowering, financing, and protecting  new homeowners. Why It Matters In communities where housing inequality has persisted for decades, GDRA’s summer workshops show what’s possible when local knowledge, national advocacy, and financial institutions work together . With each session, GDRA reaffirms its role in building a more equitable Dayton — one homeowner at a time . Get Involved Interested in future workshops, partnerships, or membership? Visit greaterdaytonrealtist.com  or email info@greaterdaytonrealtist.com Stay tuned for upcoming fall and winter workshop dates! About GDRA The Greater Dayton Realtist Association is a local chapter of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB), dedicated to promoting Democracy in Housing  for Black and minority families through education, advocacy, and access.

Honoring four individuals and a minority business for their unwavering commitment and transformative efforts in the community. The Miami Valley Urban League is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Pillar Awards, honoring outstanding community leaders and minority owned businesses that have excelled in their respective fields and made significant contributions to advancing the Greater Dayton and Miami Valley regions. Their unwavering commitment and transformative efforts in the community underscore the Pillar Awards as a beacon of the region's highest accomplishments in service and leadership. The 2025 Pillar Award Honorees: Marsha Bonhart, Media Trailblazer Carl Kennebrew, IUE-CWA International President Stacey Lawson, Chief Human Resources Officer, Premier Health The 2025 Rising Pillar Honoree: Fabrice Juin, Regional Equity Initiative Manager, Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission The 2025 Pillar IMPACT Award for minority-owned businesses: Robinson’s Janitorial & Floor Care Service “These outstanding individuals embody the commitment and leadership that leads to meaningful progress in our community,” said Nikol Miller, Executive Director of the Miami Valley Urban League. “It’s a privilege to celebrate their accomplishments and the impact they’ve made throughout the Greater Dayton area. We’re especially excited to add the honor of Rising Pillar this year to recognize up and coming leaders who are making a difference and inspire other young leaders to do the same.” The Pillar Awards will be presented at the 2025 Pillar Awards Reception on Tuesday June 3, 2025 at The Dayton Arcade, 35 W. 4th Street, Dayton, OH 45402. More information and tickets can be purchased at: https://mvul.org/pillars. The 2025 Pillar Award Honorees: Marsha Bonhart has had a remarkable and pioneering career in the media. She began in her hometown of Toledo, Ohio, working in radio and television news for two years before moving to Dayton in 1980 to join WKEF-TV as a reporter. She was promoted to weekend co-anchor and later became the primary anchor for the station’s weekday 6 and 11 p.m. newscasts—making history as Dayton’s first Black primary television news anchor. After a brief period as a news anchor in Los Angeles, Marsha returned to Dayton to lead public relations efforts at Good Samaritan Hospital. In 1988, she rejoined the local news scene at WDTN, Channel 2, where she spent the next 20 years as a news anchor and health reporter. Following her retirement from WDTN, Marsha transitioned to the nonprofit sector, serving as Development Director for the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company and later as Director of Public Relations and Media for Dayton Public Schools. Since her retirement in 2018, she has continued to lend her expertise to nonprofit organizations, supporting their media and public relations efforts. Carl Kennebrew became the 8th President of IUE-CWA on August 2, 2018. He has been a proud member of IUE-CWA for 25 years. He started his Union career as an elected delegate and Vice-President of Local 84755 in Dayton, Ohio where he worked as an organizer, served as the local’s Legislative Political Action Team Member, and as an Executive Board Member for the Dayton Miami Valley AFL-CIO. In August of 2013, Carl became the first Minority President of Local 755, the founding local of IUE-CWA. He was re-elected without opposition in the fall of 2014 and 2017. Carl is a long-time supporter of many community and partner groups such as Stand Up Ohio and the Miami Valley Organizing Collaborative. He currently serves on numerous boards including: The Ohio Organizing Collaborative, Triune Skilled Development Services, the Greater Dayton Union Co-op Initiative, the United Way of the Greater Dayton Area, and as a Dayton Metro Library Board of Trustee. Additionally, Carl was ordained last year as a Minster for Revival Center Ministries. Stacey Lawson is an innovative and transformational change leader with an extensive career in creating vision, developing strategy and translating goals into results. Stacey has been with Premier Health for 27 years serving in various human resources roles culminating in her current role of Chief Human Resources Officer where she has responsibility for developing and executing human resources strategy to support the strategic direction of the organization. Stacey is committed to giving back to the community and investing in others. She is the first African American Board Chair for the Dayton Art Institute, serves as Board Chair for Culture Works and is a member of the Equity Board and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. The 2025 Rising Pillar Honoree Fabrice Juin serves as the Regional Equity Initiative Program Manager for the Institute for Livable & Equitable Communities housed within the Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission. In this role, he strives to advance equity across the Miami Valley by collaborating with the regional community to correct policies, reform institutions, and close gaps that undermine sustained quality of life improvements for underserved, under-resourced, and vulnerable populations. Fabrice brings a public health background to this regional planning work and leverages the idea that “a society should be able to promise all its members the most optimal health status available to them” as a guiding principle. Impact Honoree Robinson’s Janitorial & Floor Care Service Robinson’s Janitorial & Floor Care Services was founded by Lewis Robinson in March 2017, with the primary focus of providing janitorial and floor cleaning services to the Dayton and surrounding areas. They currently provide commercial cleaning solutions for over 100 buildings and employ upwards of 125 individuals. Approximately 85% of Robinson’s employees are ex-offenders. Lewis initially started this venture as a side business prior to his retirement from Wright State University after a 20 year career in Environmental Services. Shortly after he was joined by his wife, Dr. Joeanna Hill-Robinson, who took on the role of business manager. She was able to establish key partnerships with the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce and Ohio Small Business Development Center leading to the creation of an impactful full-time business. According to Lewis, Robinson’s core mission is “my ministry is just really to get a lot of men and women that have had troubles from the past, just like I had, and get them off the block and get them on the clock.” They both believe that God provided opportunities that have allowed the business to grow and thrive as a positive asset to the community. The Miami Valley Urban League is on a mission to end generational poverty through advocacy and by empowering individuals to establish careers, become entrepreneurs, build wealth, and develop as leaders. To learn more visit: www.mvul.org

The Montgomery County Board of Developmental Disabilities Services (MCBDDS) has named Kamarr Gage its new Superintendent effective May 26, 2025.  The Montgomery County Board of Developmental Disabilities Services (MCBDDS) has named Kamarr Gage its new Superintendent effective May 26, 2025.  Gage, who joined MCBDDS in 1996, has served as Interim Superintendent since December 2024. He began his career with the Board as a Habilitation Specialist who developed, coordinated and monitored individualized vocational programming and supports for people with developmental disabilities. From there, he worked as a Service Coordinator, a Quality Enhancement Specialist, a Medicaid Funding Coordinator, Residential Compliance Manager, Emergency Shelter Administrator, Administrator of the Board’s Service and Support Unit, and as Director of its Residential and Family Support Services Department. He served as the agency’s Assistant Superintendent from June 2019 until his appointment as Interim Superintendent. Prior to joining the Board, Gage worked as a Supervisor for the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities at its Montgomery Developmental Center in Huber Heights, and served as a Direct Support Professional for Choices in Community Living and RMS of Ohio. He holds Superintendent, Service and Support Administrator, and Provider Compliance certificates from the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities, and is a certified Level of Care and Waiting List assessor, as well as an Ohio Eligibility Determination Instrument and Children’s Ohio Eligibility Determination Instrument evaluator. Gage earned a Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling from Wright State University and a Master of Administration in Management from Antioch University McGregor. “Kamarr has invested his entire 32-year career in the field of developmental disabilities, and is one of the most knowledgeable and qualified candidates to serve as the agency’s Superintendent,” said John Serr, Board president. “His breadth and depth of knowledge extends beyond his county board service to include an understanding of the state and federal guidelines that impact service delivery. But it’s his dedication to improving the lives of people with developmental disabilities and his commitment to his team that really make him stand out.” Gage received the Erin Ritchey Memorial Award from the Brighter Tomorrow Foundation and MCBDDS in 2020 for his leadership and dedication to enhancing the lives of people with developmental disabilities. He is a Miami Valley Fair Housing Center Board member and serves on the Montgomery County Family and Children First Council.