From the Desk of Loretta Winters
Dear Esteemed Guests and Sponsors,
Welcome to the Gloucester County NAACP Black and White Gala.
Tonight, we gather not only in celebration but in solidarity. In a moment defined by The Fierce Urgency of Now, your presence is a resounding affirmation of our shared commitment to equality, justice, and community empowerment. We are here because the time to act is not tomorrow, not someday but now.
We extend our deepest gratitude to our sponsors, whose generous support fuels our mission. Your investment amplifies voices, strengthens programs, and opens doors for those who need it most. You are partners in progress, and tonight’s impact is a reflection of your belief in what’s possible.
This evening, we pause to honor the visionaries among us with four distinguished recognitions: the Game Changer Awards, the President’s Award, the Power Couple of the Year Award, and the Lifetime Legacy Award. These honorees embody the spirit of urgent, transformative leadership—igniting change in Gloucester County and far beyond.
Thank you for joining us in celebration, reflection, and renewed purpose. Let tonight be a spark that carries forward. Together, we will rise to meet the moment, advance progress, and uplift every voice in our community.
Warm regards,
Loretta Winters
President Gloucester County NAACP gloucestercountynaacp.org
50/50 Arm length $10.00 Eagles Tailgate Raffle tickets 4 for $10.00
Mistress of Ceremonies
Gina Renee Burton MBA, MSCC, CRCR PRESIDENT & CEO | STRATEGIST | EXECUTIVE ADVISOR
Gina Burton, the innovative Founder and CEO of Credible Coaching & Consulting, LLC, is a shining example of leadership in the healthcare industry. A well-known thought leader, she collaborates with healthcare organizations and entrepreneurs to improve leadership, enhance operations, and increase financial results. With her executive-level expertise and strong dedication, Gina is committed to building resilient systems and developing the next generation of industry leaders.
Gina is significantly impacting Bancroft, a respected non-profit organization in New Jersey. In addition, she exemplifies leadership as the Immediate Past President of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Southern New Jersey Chapter, and as the 2nd Vice President of Finance and Fund Development. Her contributions extend to serving as an Executive Board Member of the NAACP in Gloucester County and actively participating in the Economic Development Commission, Rent Control Board, and the Mayor’s Committee on Addiction Awareness for Monroe Township, Gloucester County. As Treasurer for the General Federation of Women’s Clubs, an influential international organization, Gina is committed to community enhancement through dedicated volunteer service.
Gina's impressive academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in Finance, two MBAs, one in Business Administration and another in Christian Counseling, a Leadership Certificate mentored by John Maxwell, and certification in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion from Rowan University.
Gina is a proud member of St. Matthew’s Baptist Church, and she and her husband take immense pride in raising their son. Gina Burton is not just a leader but a catalyst for change and a champion for the communities she serves.
“Some people play the game...others change it”
HONOREES
Lifetime Legacy Award
Congressman Donald Norcross
President
’s
Award
Daniele Spence, Councilwoman Glassboro, NJ
Joann Weiner, EA,CFE,CTRS,NTPI Fellow; Women, Words, & Wisdom; Author ; J,L, Weiner & Associates, llc
Rachel Green, Acenda
Power Couples of the Year
Dr. Melvin and Natalie Pierson
Pastor Alex & Aykine Hicks
Game Changer Awards
South Jersey Information Equity Project............................ Communication Award
Beverly Wellons ............................................... Irene Hill Smith Civil Rights Award
Silvia Catalan-Culnan, Councilwoman.......................Wil Rojas Civil Rights Award
Chief Matthew Brenner, East Greenwich Twp..........................Law & Public Safety
Reggie Foster......................................................................... Entrepreneurial Award
Dr. Garmina Thapar.........................................................Community Medical Award
Game Changer Awards
Carter Grandison, GCIT........................................................Next Generation Award
Leatrice Lambert.............................................................................MVP– GC NAACP
Charles Johnson...........................................................Public Policy & Government
Andrew Bell, Superintendent Woodbury............................Excellence in Education
Lukeisha Walker....................................... Change Agent: Excellence in Non-Profit
Jeffrey Beck..........................................................Veterans & Armed Service Award
For any questions please email: lwinters1010@gmail.com
WEBSITE: gloucestercountynaacp.org
Michael Cesaro, Chair
Loretta Winters, President
Program
Mistress of Ceremonies Tiffany Walker
Opening Prayer Min. Irene Mintz, M.D.,
Lift Every Voice and Sing All Stand Please
Welcome Michael Cesaro, Committee Chair
Song “OVERJOYED" .........................................................................Leatrice Lambert
Acknowledgement of Official ...................................................Loretta Winters
Remarks............................................................. Congressman Donald Norcross
Presentations
Lifetime Legacy Award: President’s Award :Power Couple Award
Food is Served
Rep. Donald Norcross
Lifetime Legacy Award
Born and raised in South Jersey, Congressman Donald Norcross is an electrician by trade and a proud union member. In Congress, he is committed to improving the lives of working families by focusing on issues that matter most: raising wages, strengthening the economy, ensuring affordable, high-quality education, and supporting the brave men and women who protect our nation and neighborhoods.
Congressman Norcross understands the challenges of balancing work, family, and finances firsthand. As a single parent, he worked minimum-wage jobs and needed unemployment and disability insurance when times were tough. These experiences drive his fight to ensure workers have fair wages, strong protections, and access to affordable healthcare. He has championed raising the federal minimum wage and supported the Inflation Reduction Act which is making healthcare more affordable by capping out-of-pocket spending on prescription drugs and insulin costs for seniors on Medicare.
As an electrician, Congressman Norcross spent years connecting power to New Jersey businesses and industrial sites. He rose through the ranks to become a business agent for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 351 and later served as President of the Southern New Jersey AFL-CIO, where he represented thousands of hardworking men and women for nearly 20 years.
Congressman Norcross co-founded the Labor Caucus and the bipartisan Building Trades Caucus, where he works to advance worker protections. He introduced the No Tax Breaks for Union Busting Act to prevent taxpayers from subsidizing corporations that undermine workers’ right to organize. His Warehouse Worker Protection Act fights for safer workplaces, and his Parity Enforcement Act ensure the Department of Labor has the authority to make sure that group health plans provide equal coverage for mental health and substance use disorder treatment, as they do for other medical treatments.
A graduate of a Registered Apprenticeship program, Congressman Norcross knows the value of accessible, affordable job training. He led the House in passing the National Apprenticeship Act, expanding access to skills training and connecting workers to stable, good-paying jobs. As a member of the New Jersey Legislature, he also helped enact historic higher education reforms that established the state as a medical education and research hub.
In Congress, Congressman Norcross serves on the House Committee on Education and Workforce, where he fights to raise wages, protect the middle class, and advance workplace protections like equal pay and paid family leave. On the House Armed Services Committee (HASC), Congressman Norcross works to strengthen national security and support servicemembers, veterans, and military families. As the ranking member of HASC’s Subcommittee on Tactical Air and Land Forces (TAL), which oversees a budget of over $120 billion, he successfully pushed for Joint Base McGuire-DixLakehurst to receive a new fleet of KC-46 air refueling tankers.
Congressman Norcross also champions “Buy America” policies to create good-paying jobs, bolster the defense industrial base, and strengthen relationships with U.S. allies. As a member of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, he focuses on advancing global security through collaboration.
Congressman Norcross is a lifelong Camden County resident where he lives with his wife Andrea. They are the proud parents of three adult children and grandparents of four.
Daniele Brida Spence
President’s Award
Daniele Brida Spence has spent her entire life in Glassboro. She attended J. Harvey Rodgers and St. Bridget’s Regional School, graduated from Gloucester Catholic High School, and later from Rowan College of Gloucester County.
Currently, Daniele serves as Chief of Staff for the New Jersey Third Legislative District. Her previous experience includes a role as Commissioner Aide for the County of Gloucester, as well as work in the Borough of Glassboro Health and Housing Department. For twenty years, she managed operations and sales at her family’s business, Anthony M. Brida, Inc., and earlier in her career, worked as a waitress at the iconic Angelo’s Diner in Glassboro.
With more than thirty-five years in office administration and over fifteen years in government relations, Daniele has built an impressive career serving her community.
Daniele holds several leadership positions. In addition to serving on Borough Council, she is President of the Glassboro Historical Society and Chair of the Glassboro Historic Preservation Commission. She has dedicated over twenty years to the Glassboro Memorial Day Parade Committee, where she is responsible for securing fighter jet flyovers from the 177th Fighter Wing. Her involvement also extends to the Glassboro Park & Recreation Golf Tournament Committee.
She is a member and former trustee of VFW Post 679 Auxiliary, and regularly performs at veterans’ events, lending her voice to national anthem renditions and participating in the Second Saturday Showcase at the post.
Daniele previously coordinated the Glassboro Municipal Alliance and served on the Gloucester County Commission for Women. She serves as Chair of the Glassboro Democrat Committee. She is also active in her parish, Mary Mother of Mercy, where she is part of the music ministry, singing and playing guitar at masses for both Our Lady Queen of Peace and Our Lady of Lourdes churches.
Daniele enjoys performing as the lead singer and rhythm guitarist for the local blues band TK & The Howlers. She is passionate about cooking and loves to host gatherings at her Glassboro home, which she shares with her husband, Francis Spence, Retired USAF Chief Master Sergeant, and their dogs, Leo and Lucy.
Jo-anne Weiner
President’s Award
Jo-Ann Weiner, EA, CFE, CTRS, NTPI Fellow Founder & Principal, J.L. Weiner & Associates
Jo-Ann Weiner is a nationally recognized expert in forensic tax accounting, fraud examination, and tax controversy resolution. With over four decades of experience including 35 years as a Revenue Agent with the U.S. Internal Revenue Service Ms. Weiner brings unmatched depth and precision to every case she handles. Her IRS tenure included auditing federal tax returns, serving as a special enforcement agent on civil and criminal matters, and participating in grand jury investigations.
In 2013, she launched her private practice, J.L. Weiner & Associates, where she represents individuals and businesses facing audits, investigations, and complex tax disputes. As a Certified Fraud Examiner and Certified Tax Resolution Specialist, Ms. Weiner is frequently called upon to testify as an expert witness in federal and state legal proceedings. Her work spans criminal tax defense, divorce-related financial analysis, estate matters, and forensic fraud examinations—often in collaboration with legal teams.
Jo-Ann’s credentials include:
• Enrolled Agent (EA)
• Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)
• Certified Tax Resolution Specialist (CTRS)
• NTPI Fellow
• PAC Treasurer
• Graduate of the Schuldinder/Smollan Leadership Academy, NAEA
• Practitioner, American Society of Tax Problem Solvers (ASTPS)
Her thought leadership is reflected in numerous publications, including EA Journal, SJ Biz Magazine, and NAWBO, and her memoir A Ragged Journey (Tasfil Publishing, 2024) offers a personal lens into her professional path.
Honors include:
• Frances Hooks Award, NAACP
• “Woman to Watch,” SJ Biz Magazine
• Best of Biz 2023, South Jersey Biz
• 2025 Community Impact Award for Women, Words, and Wisdom, SJ Biz Magazine
Jo-Ann Weiner continues to be a trusted voice in tax law, forensic accounting, and financial justice serving clients with integrity, insight, and unwavering expertise.
10,000 Lincoln Drive East, Suite 201, Marlton, NJ 08053
856.988.5446 | jlweiner.com
Melvin & Natalie Pierson .,
Power Couple
Natalie and Dr. Melvin Pierson, honored as the NAACP Power Couple of the Year, embody more than six decades of leadership in healthcare, dentistry, and community advocacy.
Natalie W. Pierson, MSN, RN, NC-BC, FHFSA is a Board-Certified Nurse Coach and Fellow of the Heart Failure Society of America, where she currently serves on the Board of Directors. She is the Senior Clinical Manager at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania’s Advanced Heart Failure Center and has devoted more than 30 years to the management of patients with heart failure and other cardiovascular diseases. With a Master’s degree in Community System Administration, Natalie has designed and led numerous community outreach initiatives focused on cardiovascular disease prevention, lifestyle modification, and nurse-community navigation, bridging the gap between patients and clinicians. A passionate educator and advocate, she volunteers with the Philadelphia American Heart Association and several faith-based organizations. Her dedication has been recognized through numerous honors, including the Heart Failure Society of America’s National Clinical Excellence in Nursing Award, the American Heart Association’s Philadelphia Heart Champion Award, and the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania’s Nursing Clinical Excellence Award. Natalie’s research interests include hypertension prevention, community-based cardiovascular health, and the impact of nurse coaching in promoting long-term patient success.
Melvin K. Pierson, DDS, FAGD, FADI is a distinguished dentist, educator, and public health advocate whose career spans more than three decades. A graduate of Dillard University, Howard University, and New York University, he has blended clinical excellence with academic leadership, serving on the faculty of Temple University School of Dentistry and as Dental Director for the South Jersey Health System’s Community Health Care initiative. A Fellow of both the Academy of General Dentistry and the Academy of Dentistry International, Dr. Pierson has held numerous leadership positions, including Past President of the New Jersey Academy of General Dentistry. Recognized as one of South Jersey’s Top General Dentists, he has shared his expertise nationally as a spokesperson for the Academy of General Dentistry, an expert witness in dental litigation, and a trusted voice in media outlets such as NBC10, Fox 29, CN8, Essence, AARP, and Parent Magazine. Currently serving his second term as 2nd Vice President of the Gloucester County NAACP, Dr. Pierson continues to champion equity, education, and access to quality care for all.
Married for over 35 years, Natalie and Melvin Pierson are true partners in life and service. Together, they leverage their expertise to improve health outcomes, mentor future professionals, and advance social justice. Their unwavering commitment to patient care, professional excellence, and community empowerment continues to inspire colleagues and uplift underserved populations across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and beyond.
Alex & Aykine Hicks
Power Couple of the Year Awars
Tonight, we celebrate two extraordinary individuals whose lives exemplify the very best of service, dedication, and transformative leadership. Aykine and Pastor Alex Hicks represent the profound impact that occurs when personal commitment meets community need.
Aykine Hicks brings to her community work a distinguished background of service to our nation and city. As a decorated military veteran who served with honor during both Desert Shield and Desert Storm, she demonstrated early in her career the courage and commitment that would define her life's work. Her subsequent career as a New York City law enforcement officer further solidified her dedication to protecting and serving others. Together with her husband of over 23 years, Pastor Alex Hicks, Aykine has transformed their sense of duty into a powerful mission that touches countless lives in our community. Nourishing Bodies and Souls For more than 13 years, the Hicks family has opened their restaurant doors every week to provide complimentary breakfasts for veterans—a beautiful gesture that honors those who have served while creating a space for fellowship and support. This weekly tradition represents more than just a meal; it's a testament to their belief that service to others should be ongoing and heartfelt. Pastor Alex brings his own remarkable credentials to this partnership. As a devoted pastor, respected community developer, and successful restaurateur and entrepreneur for over 37 years, he has built a foundation of trust and leadership that extends far beyond the pulpit. His service on the Gloucester Township Economic Development Partnership Corporation demonstrates his commitment to fostering economic growth and opportunity throughout our region.
Aykine's passion for empowering females shines through her mentorship work, where she guides young women to develop both character and confidence. Her vision is clear: to help them carry themselves as ladies and leaders who will shape a better future. As a frequent speaker at local and out-of-state schools, she reaches youth and high school students with messages of hope, purpose, and possibility. Meanwhile, Pastor Alex runs a vital mentorship program for individuals with unfavorable records, proving that everyone deserves a second chance and the support needed to build a brighter future. His work exemplifies the belief that transformation is possible when someone believes in you and provides the tools for success.
Perhaps most remarkably, this dynamic couple dedicates themselves to helping less fortunate individuals establish credit and build sustainable incomes to secure their own homes. This work goes to the heart of breaking cycles of poverty and creating pathways to stability and prosperity.
Aykine and Pastor Alex Hicks remind us that true leadership is not measured by titles or accolades, but by the lives we touch and the communities we lift. Their 23-year marriage partnership has become a beacon of hope, demonstrating how shared values and complementary strengths can multiply impact exponentially. Tonight, we honor not just their individual achievements, but their collective vision of a community where veterans are valued, young people are empowered, second chances are real, and every person has the opportunity to build a stable, prosperous future. The Hicks family shows us that service is not a single act, but a way of life one that transforms not only those they serve, but inspires all of us to consider how we might answer the call to lift others as we climb. Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in celebrating Aykine and Pastor Alex Hicks—true champions of service and community transformation.
South Jersey Informatn Equity Project Communication Award
Cassandra Etienne, Velvet McNeil and Adrienne Bauldock are the Black women behind the South Jersey Information Equity Project, which trains young journalists of color to report on their communities.
The Center for Cooperative Media partnered with the Philadelphia Association of Black Journalists to launch the South Jersey Information Equity Project in April 2020 to address media inequity in South Jersey, specifically by seeking to improve the quality and quantity of news and information produced by and for communities of color. SJIEP launched its first cohort of fellows in 2022.
This project aims to support and elevate Black media makers, specifically in Burlington, Camden, Gloucester, Salem, Cumberland, and Atlantic counties — including those who identify as journalists and those who do not — and connect them with resources, funding, and platform partners to share their work.
This work came after veteran journalist and South Jersey resident Sarah Glover assessed the news landscape for Black communities and journalists. Glover’s work identified a clear need for more resources to elevate the skills and visibility of Black journalists in South Jersey, more information sharing and storytelling by and for Black communities, and more support for Black-led media ventures.
The project partners included the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation, the Independence Public Media Foundation, the NJ Civic Information Consortium and The Nicholson Foundation for their funding support.
Beverly Wellons
Irene Hill-Smith Civil Rights Award
Beverly currently serves as the Chair of the Gloucester County Commission for Women, a fact finding and advisory commission to the public at large and to the Gloucester County Board of Commissioners regarding the concerns of women in Gloucester County. The commission suggests and urges reforms in the law, public policy and public attitudes towards women.
As the Vice President of the Arc Gloucester Board of Directors. She is an advocate for quality residential, day and employment services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Prior to her retirement in March 2020, she served as the Region III Program Manager for the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children with oversite responsibilities for federal funds allocated to Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia.
She previously served as Assistant Director of the New Jersey Department of Human Services, Division of Family Development, where she was responsible for the development of the CCDF Plan in consultation with other state departments, child advocacy organizations, and service providers to support the availability accessibility and affordability of comprehensive early care and education services for children ages birth to 13.
She served as the Director of the Southern Regional Child Care Resource Center, at EIRC and was an active member of the NJ Child Care Advisory Council. She attended Wheelock College and earned an Associate in Day Care Administration. In February 2001 she was sworn in as the Founding President of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Southern New Jersey Chapter.
Beverly is the proud parent of a son and a daughter and has four grandchildren. “I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the water to create many ripples” -Mother Teresa
Silvia Catalan-Culnan
Wilfredo Rojas Civil Rights Award
Silvia Catalan-Culnan made history as the first Latina elected to the Mount Laurel Town Council. An immigrant from Colombia, she is deeply committed to public service, economic development, and building stronger, more inclusive communities.
She currently serves as Legislative Director to Assemblyman William Spearman, where she advances legislative priorities and works closely with constituents to expand opportunity and equity. Previously, Silvia led constituent services, helping residents navigate and access state and county resources. She has also organized public health and education sessions that empower families— especially women — to make informed decisions with the support of professionals.
Silvia and her family are survivors of the violence that displaced over 220,000 people during Colombia’s long civil conflict — an experience that shaped her unshakable commitment to democracy, human rights, and community resilience. She draws strength from her heritage, faith, and the power of grassroots activism.
She lives in Mount Laurel with her husband and young daughter, where they enjoy the parks, small businesses, and vibrant community. Silvia also serves on the Mount Laurel Planning Board and remains active in civic and advocacy organizations across South Jersey.
Chief Matthew Brenner Law
and Public Safety Award
Chief Matthew Brenner, a 24-year veteran of the East Greenwich Township Police Department, has been recognized by the NAACP as a 2025 “Game Changer” for his leadership and community impact. Chief Brenner began his law enforcement career in 2001 after graduating from the Gloucester County Police Academy and pursuing studies in Public Administration at Fairleigh Dickinson University.
Over the course of his career, he has risen through the ranks, serving as Patrol Officer, Patrol Sergeant, Detective Sergeant, and since 2019, Chief of Police. Along the way, he has taken on a number of specialized roles, including K9 Handler, Drug Recognition Expert, Field Training Officer, and EMT. His dedication and professionalism have been honored with numerous distinctions, including a 2006 nomination for Gloucester County “Officer of the Year.”
As a certified instructor since 2006, Chief Brenner has shared his expertise in police supervision, interview techniques, and proactive enforcement with the next generation of law enforcement leaders. He also serves in key leadership roles beyond his department, including 3rd Vice President of the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police Executive Board, member of the Police Academy Advisory Board, past Chair of the County Awards Committee, and 2024 Past President of the Gloucester County Police Chiefs Association.
Chief Brenner is a graduate of several prestigious FBI leadership programs, including the Mid-Atlantic Law Enforcement Executive Development Seminar, the FBI’s National Command Course (Session #2), and most recently, the FBI National Academy, Session #290 in 2024.
A strong advocate for inclusive and community-focused policing, Chief Brenner has championed programs that expand engagement and build trust, including the GC Chaplains program, initiatives supporting women in law enforcement, diversionary and treatment programs, the in-county FBI Teen Academy, and community outreach events such as Coffee with a Cop and first responder partnerships. Chief Brenner’s career reflects a balance of professional excellence, strong leadership, and a deep commitment to fostering trust and unity between law enforcement and the community he serves.
Jeffrey Beck
Armed Service & Veterans Affair
Philadelphia, PA, proudly continues a family legacy of military service as a third-generation United States Marine. Deeply moved by the events of 9/11, he was inspired to serve his country and confront the sense of helplessness he witnessed on that tragic day. Jeff honorably served for eight years, including deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, rising to the rank of Staff Sergeant.
During the latter part of his service, Jeff began to recognize the profound impact that war had on his own well-being—an experience shared by many veterans. Committed to ensuring no individual, couple, or family endures such challenges without support, he dedicated himself to mental health care upon his honorable discharge.
After becoming a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Jeff has devoted his career to serving veterans and their families. He currently serves as the Clinical Director at Family and Psychological Services, an organization with a longstanding commitment to the veteran community since 1985. Additionally, he owns a private practice where he provides compassionate counseling to individuals, couples, and families within his local community.
Beyond his professional achievements, Jeff is a devoted husband and proud father to four wonderful children.
Andrew Bell, Superintendent
Excellence In Education
Mr. Andrew T. Bell Sr. brings 29 years of experience in education to his role as Superintendent. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Art Education from Morgan State University, an HBCU, in 1996. He began his career teaching for two years in Baltimore City before joining the Camden City School District in September 1998, where he dedicated twenty-one years of service. Mr. Bell later earned a master’s degree in School Administration from Wilmington University and is currently pursuing his Doctorate in Educational Leadership at Rowan University, with an anticipated graduation date of December 2026.
During his career, Mr. Bell spent ten years in the classroom before transitioning into twelve years of administrative leadership, holding pivotal roles including Vice Principal, Principal, Chief School Support Officer, Chief Academic Officer, and Chief Strategy Officer. Today, as Superintendent of Woodbury City Public Schools, Mr. Bell has made history as the first African American Superintendent in Woodbury and only the second ever in Gloucester County. He continues to bring a wealth of expertise in instructional leadership, strategic planning, and organizational improvement.
Most recently, Mr. Bell and his district were honored by Governor Phil Murphy for their innovative work in implementing a cell phone–free school policy for grades 6–12, a model that has drawn recognition across New Jersey.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Mr. Bell is a devoted husband to Ayanna Dickerson Bell and a proud father of three children: Zoe (17), Jaleel (16), and Andrew Jr. (14).
The Board of Education is proud to have Mr. Bell as part of the community and values the expertise, leadership, and dedication he brings to continually strengthening the district’s educational program.
Reggie Foster Entrepreneurial Award
Reggie Foster is a multi-unit restaurant owner and driven entrepreneur whose journey began humbly as a server at Houlihan’s Restaurant. After leaving college during his freshman year, Reggie committed to outworking everyone around him and intentionally surrounding himself with mentors and role models who inspired excellence. His path has been marked by setbacks—financial hardship, failure, and tough lessons—but through relentless hustle and personal growth, he built a thriving business empire. Today, Reggie stands as a testament to resilience, proving that success isn’t handed out— it’s earned.
Dr. Garmina Thapar
Medical Excellence Award
Dr.GarimaThapar–Physician|CommunityLeader|AdvocateforDiversity& Education
Dr. Garima Thapar is an accomplished physician, a proud mother of two, and an active community leader who is passionate about making meaningful difference both inside and outside the clinic. Alongside her commitment to providing exceptional patient care, she dedicates her time and energy to numerous volunteer initiatives, striving to create a positive impact on her community and serve as a role model for others.
As the President of the Voorhees Middle School PFA, Dr. Thapar worked closely with parents and the school administration to foster an environment where students can thrive academically and personally. Her dedication to education and community engagement also led her to run for the Voorhees School Board, demonstrating her strong commitment to shaping policies that positively impact students and families. She also served as the Treasurer of the Voorhees Cultural and Diversity Committee, where she played a vital role in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion across the school system and has delivered multiple presentations to advance these goals.
Deeply rooted in her cultural heritage, Dr. Thapar volunteers as a teacher at Balvihar School, where she helps over 380 students build cultural awareness and values. She has also been an active contributor and former Board Member of the India Temple Association, supporting and organizing large-scale cultural and religious events such as the annual Navratri celebration — attended by more than 4,000 people — and the Mata Ki Chowki event.
Her contributions extend beyond cultural engagement. Dr. Thapar conducts health awareness lectures for seniors at the Indian Cultural Center and other local groups, empowering individuals with knowledge to lead healthier lives. She also served on the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee of her local school district and volunteers with nonprofit organizations to prepare food packets for the homeless.
Through her professional dedication, community service, and leadership, Dr. Thapar embodies compassion, integrity, and commitment. Whether caring for patients, mentoring students, or championing diversity, she continues to inspire those around her and strengthen the bonds within her community.
Carter Grandison
Carter Grandison is a senior at Gloucester County Institute of Technology (GCIT), where he excels as a scholar, leader, and emerging engineer.
A member of both the National Honor Society and National Technical Honor Society, Carter recently earned first place in the New Jersey State SkillsUSA Mobile Robotics Competition and is now competing at the national level. He works as an IT technician for his high school, holds multiple tech certifications, and is passionate about electrical and computer hardware engineering.
Carter has been a proud member of the Gloucester County NAACP since childhood and has spent the past five years volunteering in voter outreach, civic engagement, and event coordination.
Known for his calm demeanor, deep compassion, and quiet leadership, Carter has proven time and again that excellence is not just about achievement, but about impact.
He plans to pursue a career in engineering and technology with the goal of building innovative solutions that serve communities and inspire future generations.
Leatrice Lambert
Most Valuable Player Award
Leatrice Lambert is a long time resident of New Jersey. Leatrice has been married to Jonathan for almost 40 years. They have two adult children Lauren and Jonathan.
Leatrice was born in Philadelphia, PA. She graduated from Northeast High School. She earned her B.S. in Apparel Management at Jefferson University once know as Philadelphia College of Textiles and Science.
She was a co-op at and later employed at the Defense Personnel Support Center in Philadelphia as an Industrial Engineering Technician and a Management Analyst. While her children were in school; she became a regular and long-term substitute teacher at Winslow High School. She went back to college to take post bachelorette classes to obtain her Certificate of Eligibility to teach in New Jersey.
Leatrice is employed at Cherokee High School in the Lenape Regional High School District as a Family and Consumer Sciences Teacher. She earned her Masters of Education degree in Education from Central Michigan University.
She has been a member of the NAACP for several years and currently is the assistant secretary of the Gloucester County NAACP.
She is a charter member and Parliamentarian of the Trenton Chapter of Charms, INC. She and her husband are active members of St. Matthew’s Baptist Church in Williamstown, NJ.
Leatrice loves spending time with her family and friends. She enjoys music and singing. She is active in her community.
Charles Johnson
Public Policy and Government
Charles D. Johnson is a dedicated professional, ion tradesman, and servant leader with more than 33 years of experience in technical training, electrical maintenance, and nuclear power operations.
A native of Valdosta, Georgia, Lowndes High School before serving with distinction in the United States Navy as a nuclear qualified Electrician Defense Service Medal, dation for his key role in the pre USS John C. Stennis, a Nimitz Class nuclear
Following his military career, Science in Multidisciplinary Technology from Thomas Edison State University 2024 and built a distinguished path in the civilian energy sector. He has dedicated over 25 years of service to Exelon Corporation works as a Transmission & Substation Training Supervisor. A proud member of IBEW Local 1289 for over 20 years and former member of the International Longshoremen’s Association Local 2038, he is respected for his leadership, mentorship, and commitment to workforce excellence.
A man of faith and community, Church of Toms River, New Jersey, where he received the sionary Baptist Association
Charles Johnson’s life reflects honor, perseverance, and a steadfast dedication to service—qualities that continue to inspire all who know him.
Lukeshia Walker
Non-Profit
Lukeshia Walker is a multifaceted professional, known as an author, coach, consultant, investor, realtor, philanthropist, business owner, and a cherished sister-friend to many. Hailing from South Jersey, this devoted mother of three adult children has a rich background in business, marketing, and entrepreneurship. After dedicating eighteen years to the medical claims industry, Lukeshia took a bold leap of faith in 2019.
She now leads LW Coaching Institute and Jurnee Consulting LLC as CEO, where she passionately offers life and business coaching, as well as consulting services nationwide. Lukeshia is dedicated to helping women discover their unique paths, creating sacred spaces for them to grow through their visions and a touch of her insightful guidance. Whether addressing personal or professional goals, Lukeshia empowers individuals to achieve the success they aspire to.
Since 2015, Lukeshia has excelled as a determined realtor with Keller Williams Realty, consistently striving for win-win solutions that uphold professionalism and integrity. She is also co-owner of Trophy Dynasty, LLC, a company known for quality awards and recognition products. Beyond real estate and business, Lukeshia founded The Hason Children Foundation in 2009, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that supports children who have lost a parent.
Her passion for community service extends to supporting both the youth and the elderly. As the author of three published books, she continually inspires others to pursue their dreams and achieve self-fulfillment. She takes great joy in honoring women who have overcome significant challenges and paved the way for others.
Lukeshia’s impressive list of accomplishments includes memberships with the International Coaching Federation, National Association of Realtors, Gloucester-Salem County Board of Realtors, and she is a stakeholder for the Gloucester County NAACP. She also serves as an Ambassador of Women in Real Estate and as a Planning Board Member of Winslow Township, further demonstrating her unwavering commitment to empowering and uplifting her community.
Mayor John E. Wallace III & Glassboro Council Members
Congratulates
Daniele Brida-Spence
Congratulations to the Power Couple!
We are so proud of the amazing work you have done and continue to do in the community. Your dedication, compassion and partnership are an inspiration to us all.
Love Jay and Camilla Clarke.
2025-2026
Officers
Loretta Winters, President
Tiffany Walker, 1st VP
Dr. Mel Pierson, 2nd VP
Michael Cesaro, CPA, 3rd VP
Aquasia Davis, Secretary
Catherine Paige, Treasurer
Leatrice Lambert, Asst. Secretary
Dr. Irene Mintz, Asst. Treasurer
Members At Large
Ave Altersitz
Evan Palmer
Fran Harwell
Gina Burton
Darlema Bey
Yolanda Balicki, Esq
Fatima Heyward
Melissa Fox
Rachael Green
To all the Honorees
The Gloucester County NAACP Officers and Members
Membership to this Great Organization
The Committee
The Gala Committee extends its heartfelt gratitude to Michael Cesaro for his exemplary leadership and unwavering support. His encouragement has empowered us to embrace our creativity and achieve excellence in our endeavors.
Our Sponsors, Supporters, and Friends
