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The New York State sections of the National Council of Negro Women, Inc. (NCNW), comprising 17 dedicated sections across the state, triumphantly hosted the 50th-anniversary gala of the Bethune/Height Recognition Program (BHRP) last month.
With the theme “Advancing Our Mission, Strengthening Our Message, Refining Our Method,” the event commemorated five decades of the BHRP’s unwavering dedication to empowering African American women and girls.
Held at Leonard’s of Great Neck, NY, the afternoon celebration brought together distinguished guests, community members, and program beneficiaries. The spirit of unity, reflection, and inspiration filled the room as attendees acknowledged the BHRP’s significant impact over the past half-century.
The esteemed Rev. Dr. Gwendolyn Elizabeth Boyd, a distinguished scientist, engineer, civic leader, and lifelong advocate for STEM education, served as the event’s keynote speaker. Dr. Boyd’s impressive background includes her tenure as the former national president of Delta Sigma Theta, Inc. from 2000 to 2004 and her role as the former president of Alabama State University. Her inspiring address resonated with the audience, emphasizing the importance of continued progress for African American women and girls.
Johnnie M. Walker and Dawna M. Fields, National BHRP Co-Chairs, along with Carol E. Moore, NYS BHRP Chair, and Gladys Keller and Evelyn Kinsey, NYS Luncheon Co-Chairs, led the organization of this historic event.
The BHRP Gala serves as the pinnacle fundraising event for the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) by the New York State NCNW sections as a whole. Funds raised will directly support programs and services dedicated to empowering African American women and girls throughout the state.
The 50th-anniversary celebration marked a significant milestone for the BHRP. The event not only commemorated the program’s past achievements but also fueled the organization’s passion and commitment to shaping a brighter future for generations to come.
The Bethune/Height Recognition Program is the signature National Fundraiser of the NCNW, exclusively hosted by the New York State sections. For 50 years, the BHRP has been a driving force in empowering and supporting African American women and girls.
