New York Urban League Hosts 57th Annual Frederick Douglass Gala

NEW YORK (June 12, 2023) - On Thursday, June 1, the New York Urban League held its 57th Frederick Douglass Awards Gala. They saluted distinguished honorees including Tom Halloran, EVP & CFO of Fidelis Care; Alison Overseth, CEO, Partnership for After School Education; and Alfre Woodard, actor, activist, and producer. The elegant event was emceed by NBC4’s Myles Miller with Honorary Chairs Phylicia Rashad and James Rhee. Wendy and Doug Eisenberg Co-Chaired the event with Ken DeRegt and Fidelis Care served as the Lead Sponsor. And Diageo / Pronghorn underwrote this year’s reception.

A special tribute video was created by NBC and narrated by NBC Anchor David Ushery that played for each honoree. The final culminating moment was the actual award presentation by Rev. Dr. Alfonso Wyatt to Ann S. Kheel honoree Alison Overseth, Abenaa Udochi to Frederick Douglass honoree Tom Halloran and Alexander Smalls to Frederick Douglass honoree Alexander Smalls. The videos and introductions were heartwarming and furthered why the honorees were selected for the prestigious awards.

The theme of the evening was “RENEW.”  Each honoree shared what RENEW means to them including NYUL President and CEO Arva Rice. Rice stated “RENEW means to double-down, to recommit, and re-center on the New York Urban League’s cause and its constituency. Rice urged the over 450 attendees to “RENEW their commitment to social justice, RENEW their commitment to making a difference, RENEW their resolve to keep contributing when we move forward and even when we have to take a step back.”

Guests were also able to enjoy the stories of individuals whose lives have been touched by the New York Urban League in a video created by Bronte’ Laurent. Bronx Legacy High School Principal Kameca Waugh shared how the partnership with the New York Urban League has positively impacted her students. While District Attorney Alvin Braggs, Jr. shared how he had grown up in the New York Urban League and received a Whitney M. Young, Jr. Scholarship.  Finally current Whitney M. Young, Jr. Scholar Jalynn Perkins and her Young Professional mentor Courtney Jackson talked about how their relationship is helping ensure Jalynn’s success.

NYUL Board Chair Ward Corbett stated, “The request for services is greater and the calls for support come more frequently – from parents and students who need support, corporations who are looking for meaningful partnerships and government with whom we work to provide critical programs and services.  This work requires more focus, more energy, more innovation, and a renewed commitment.”

To see more information on the event, please visit here.