Last night, the historic Andrew Mellon Auditorium in Washington, D.C., buzzed with energy as luminaries from various fields gathered to celebrate a remarkable milestone — INROADS’ 55th anniversary. This prestigious venue, known for hosting countless significant events, provided the perfect backdrop for a night dedicated to honoring individuals and organizations that have been instrumental in making dreams come true for countless young people.
The evening was particularly poignant as it marked the retirement of the esteemed CEO Forest T. Harper, Jr., whose leadership has profoundly impacted INROADS over the years. As Harper passed the torch to the incoming CEO Ron Houston, the atmosphere was charged with excitement, anticipation, and a shared commitment to INROADS’ mission.
INROADS contributors honored
As the night unfolded, awards were presented to a select group of individuals and corporations that have made significant contributions to INROADS. Among the honorees was Katelyn Flowers, recipient of the Forest T. Harper Rising Star Award, whose outstanding dedication exemplifies the spirit of the organization. Michael Roberts, CMO of MetLife, was celebrated as Alumni of the Year, recognizing his remarkable journey from INROADS participant to corporate leader.
The Frank C. Carr Corporate Award was proudly accepted by Kristine Decker, Chief Equality and Inclusion Officer at Procter & Gamble, highlighting the company’s ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion. Chris Womack, CEO of Southern Companies, received the Frank C. Carr Leadership Award, a testament to his exemplary leadership in the corporate arena.
The event reached a pinnacle when Thasunda Brown Duckett, the dynamic CEO of TIAA, engaged in a heartfelt conversation with INROADS current high school member, Kennedy Cordle. The exchange was nothing short of inspiring. Duckett shared invaluable insights, encouraging the young audience to introduce themselves through their personal stories rather than titles or affiliations. She emphasized the importance of recognizing the sacrifices made by those who came before them, urging students to remember “whose shoulders you stand on” as they navigate their journeys.
Duckett also addressed the critical issue of inequality faced by Black and Brown individuals, stating, “Talent is given equally, but opportunity is not.” The genuine interaction between Duckett and Cordle showcased the profound impact of mentorship and the potential within each young person. Cordle, a graduating senior bound for North Carolina A&T to major in Construction Engineering, displayed remarkable poise, embodying the essence of an INROADS scholar ready to make her mark.
The evening was masterfully emceed by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Angela Hill, who eloquently highlighted the remarkable achievements of Black excellence present in the room. Each speaker, from past scholars to corporate leaders, underscored INROADS’ mission to secure internships and career opportunities for students, a vision first articulated by founder Frank C. Carr. His family remains an integral part of INROADS, continuing to support the organization’s transformative work.
Duckett contributes $1 million to INROADS
In a powerful show of support, Duckett and her family made a personal contribution of $1 million to INROADS, urging others to join in this commitment to the future of the community. The call to action resonated deeply, with Michael Roberts encapsulating the spirit of the night: “Lift as we climb.” This mantra is a reminder that success is not just an individual pursuit but a collective effort to elevate those who follow.
Last night’s celebration was not just a tribute to INROADS’ past but a clarion call for the future. Attendees left inspired and energized, understanding that their contributions could help further the dreams of countless young people. The event was a reminder that we all have a role to play in creating opportunities for the next generation.
If you’re inspired to contribute to this vital mission, visit inroads.org to learn how you can get involved. Together, we can continue to make dreams come true and ensure that the legacy of INROADS lives on for many more years to come. Here’s to 55 years of impact — and to the bright future ahead!
