Juanita Gray Community Service Awards and Blacks in Colorado Hall of Fame

Learn About This Year's Award Nominees and Recipients Below!

Picture of Mrs. Juanita Ross Gray

This year's award ceremony was hosted by Chandra Thomas Whitfield, a previous Juanita Gray Community Service Award recipient and a host/producer for CPR. It was a beautiful celebration of community and featured live entertainment by acclaimed vocalist Anna Maria High. Take a look below to see this year's amazing nominees and recipients.


Juanita Gray was a former library staff member and community advocate whose legacy, dedication, and advocacy of Denver’s African American community continue to inspire. The Denver Public Library established the Juanita Gray Community Service Awards in 1988 to celebrate the contributions of men, women, and youth of Black or African descent. She also established the Blacks in Colorado Hall of Fame in 1973, which continues to add biennial inductees based on their trailblazing accomplishments in the state of Colorado.

Each year community members are invited to nominate individuals who make outstanding contributions to the Denver Metro area and who exemplify the ideals and spirit represented by Mrs. Gray’s commitment to the community. A community-driven committee works with the Library and a member of the Library Commission to nominate and select the award winners and Hall of Fame inductees.

View decades of Juanita Gray Community Service Award recipients and Blacks in Colorado Hall of Fame Inductees

2025 Juanita Gray Community Service Award Recipients

Headshot for Darrell D. WestDarrell D. West
Darrell West is the founder and President of the Major Taylor Cycling Club of Denver (MTCCD), which he established in 2011 while working at a public library to engage local youth in cycling and maintenance skills. Initially focused on supporting inner-city youth, the club has since expanded its activities to include adult group rides and health resources for the community. Notably, MTCCD organized protest bike rides during the police brutality protests, drawing over 300 supporters. Darrell is proud of commissioning a mural of Major Taylor, created by artist Johnny Pucci, located on the Cherry Creek bike path. He has served two terms on the Mayor's bicycling advisory committee and lives by the motto: "Leave it better than you found it."

Headshot for The Honorable Rhonda Fields The Honorable Rhonda Fields 
The Honorable Rhonda Fields served in the Colorado Commission on Criminal Juvenile Justice under Governor Bill Ritter, where she worked on public safety and criminal justice issues. Recently, she was State Senator for District 29 for eight years before being elected County Commissioner for Arapahoe District 5. During the 2024 Legislative Session, she received the Leadership Circle Award for her support of 40 health bills. Fields founded the Fields Wolfe Memorial Fund in memory of her son Javad and his fiancée Vivian and has been a powerful advocate for victims’ rights for years. Her passion has motivated her to serve on several boards, including the Safe 2 Tell Advisory Board and Voices of Victims, and is affiliated with organizations such as Women in Government and the NAACP.

Headshot for Janet R. DamonJanet R. Damon
Janet Rene Damon is a dedicated history teacher at DELTA High School in Denver and was recently awarded the 2025 Colorado Teacher of the Year. She has over 20 years of experience as an educator, librarian, and literacy consultant. Her commitment to education stems from her parents' experiences with limited access to schooling. A literacy engagement activist, she empowers families by increasing access to diverse books and resources, fostering self-esteem and appreciation for their unique histories. As the founder of Afros and Books, she leads workshops on culturally responsive librarianship and has presented at notable conferences. Janet holds degrees in education and library science, serves on various educational boards, and creates a supportive learning environment for her students, many of whom face significant challenges. 

Headshot for Arsema GebrekidanArsema Gebrekidan - (YOUTH AWARD RECIPIENT)
Arsema's profound compassion and critical thinking were evident early on when she inquired about the ethical practices of a fundraising event for communities reliant on garbage dumps, particularly in Ethiopia, her family's homeland. Over the years, she has continued to cultivate her curiosity about global issues, participating in a youth leadership camp with Convivir and joining their Youth Leadership Council. Committed to community service, she has completed 133 service hours, including tutoring at the Children's Literacy Center and engaging with youth at the Tennyson Center. Additionally, her involvement at the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Kidane Mehret Church reflects her dedication to her community. Arsema embodies the qualities of a humble leader who genuinely cares for others.

Headshot for Patrick EffersonPatrick Efferson - (YOUTH AWARD RECIPIENT)
Patrick Efferson is a 16-year-old from Denver who demonstrates outstanding youth leadership and academic excellence. An avid reader since childhood, he authored a children's book promoting literacy among Black youth at the age of five. Patrick has actively participated in various mentorship programs, won the KTONE Cares' Black History Month Essay Challenge, and completed the Ronald Reagan Student Leadership Program. As the youngest member of the Gary Foundation's Youth Piton Fellowship and a participant in the Denver Mayor's Youth Commission, he addresses crucial issues like mental health. He balances a rigorous IB program at Northfield High School with sports and technical skill development.

2025 Juanita Gray Community Service Award Nominees

Headshot for Alisha “DJ Alisha B” FrancisAlisha “DJ Alisha B” Francis
Alisha is a dedicated DJ, teacher, activist, and multimedia artist who actively supports and empowers youth, particularly women and queer individuals, through music and art. She volunteers her time teaching DJ classes and creative workshops while also funding projects to showcase female artists in hip-hop and other artistic communities. Alisha's work is deeply connected to her identity as an Afro-Chicana, and she strives to inspire others to embrace their artistic impulses. Her contributions to hip-hop education and community engagement in Denver over the past 20 years, including crafting programs and collaborative projects, have made her a highly influential figure. 

Headshot for Alyssia P. RichardsonAlyssia P. Richardson
Alyssia Richardson is a prominent advocate for environmental sustainability and regenerative agriculture, recognized as the first Black woman to open a vermicomposting center in Colorado with her venture, Princess Gardens Worm Farm. Through this initiative, she educates communities on soil regeneration and its importance in combating climate change while conducting workshops focused on vermiculture and sustainable practices. Alyssia emphasizes youth mentorship by offering internships that inspire young people to explore careers in environmental fields and organizing community events to foster cohesion and well-being. Her leadership and dedication to environmental justice and community development embody a transformative model for sustainable living.

Headshot for Annie M. HowardAnnie M. Howard
Annie Howard is a devoted community leader, actively enriching the lives of youth and adults through partnerships with various organizations, including the NCNW Denver Section and the Colorado Sickle Cell Association. She co-founded the Mountain West Chapter of Top Ladies of Distinction and has held multiple roles in her church, particularly in children's ministry. With a master's degree in Communication focused on Conflict Resolution from the University of Denver and over 39 years of federal service, including a significant role in the U.S. Geological Survey, Annie is dedicated to mentoring future leaders. She also runs her own business, Sew Amazing Embroidery and Quilting Co. Above all, she cherishes her family, including her two children, stepdaughters, grandchildren, and her husband, Dr. Vern L. Howard, expressing deep gratitude for her family roots in Louisiana.

Austin Duncan - (YOUTH AWARD NOMINEE)
Austin, a compassionate 16-year-old, actively engages in community service efforts both personally and through organizations. She has volunteered at the Denver Rescue Mission, served meals to the homeless, and collected clothing and furniture for donation. During Christmas, she delivered meals to those in need and distributed grocery bundles in underserved neighborhoods. Recently, she signed up to support Habitat for Humanity and plans to spend two weeks in Tanzania this summer with the Africa School Assistance Project, where she will help build a school for those in need.

Headshot for Charles Edward Foster Jr.Charles Edward Foster Jr.
Charles Foster, a member of the Rocky Mountain Guide Association, conducts guided tours along Colorado's Front Range, particularly in Northeast Denver and the Five Points Neighborhood. Since 2017, he has engaged with business owners and community members to address issues like graffiti, vandalism, and infrastructure needs, filing requests with city and utility agencies for improvements. He regularly documents concerns during observance walks, maintaining a detailed notebook of contacts with various organizations to ensure resolutions. Revered as the Five Points Neighborhood Ambassador, Mr. Foster has dedicated hundreds of volunteer hours over the past seven years to advocate for community preservation and improvement.

Headshot for Cherif Y. SarrCherif Y. Sarr
Deputy Sheriff Cherif Sar was born and raised in Dakar, Senegal, and now proudly calls Denver, Colorado home. He’s served in the Denver Sheriff's Department for nearly a decade and has been regarded for his welcoming approach to keeping the community safe. Through his role, he’s supported many inmates in navigating vital resources such as mental health support and drug abuse programs, bringing hope to folks hoping to change their lives. Deputy Sar eagerly contributes to the betterment of the community with a friendly demeanor.

Headshot for Dr. Tara JaeDr. Tara Jae
Dr. Tara Jae is the founder and Executive Director of Youth Seen, an organization dedicated to QTBIPOC mental health and wellness. In this role, they advocate for transforming mental health and wellness by increasing access to resources for the community. In 2021, Dr. Jae co-founded and co-created Black Pride Colorado. Alongside their executive director role, advocate work, and co-creation efforts, Dr. Jae consults with various nonprofits and organizations to acknowledge, deconstruct, and rebuild systems from an equitable perspective. Additionally, Dr. Jae serves as an executive coach, curator, DEI curriculum developer, and consultant for public media organizations to ensure accurate representation and perspectives of our LGBTQ+ BIPOC community in storytelling and media.

Headshot for Drs. Dewey and Charlotte BrighamDrs. Dewey and Charlotte Brigham
For decades, research has highlighted that students of color and female students have been underrepresented in STEM education and careers. Since 1980, the Colorado Association of Black Professional Engineers and Scientists (CABPES) has worked to change this by encouraging Black youth and other underrepresented groups to pursue STEM fields through hands-on educational experiences. Under the leadership of Dewey F. Brigham, Jr., PhD, and Dr. Charlotte Brigham, MD, CABPES has become a leading STEM nonprofit in Colorado, offering programs like math enrichment tutoring and college prep that help students build confidence and increase diversity in the field. The Brighams continue to expand CABPES’s free offerings, exemplified by their middle school students’ participation in the Future City Competition in January 2025, forming a diverse team. The Brighams' unwavering dedication ensures CABPES will thrive in supporting the Colorado community for years to come.

Headshot for Elycia R. CookElycia R. Cook
Elycia R. Cook has dedicated her life to enhancing the quality of life for others through service since the early 1990s, starting in Japan, where she supported women and mentored biracial children. Known as "the mayor" in Denver, she engages with policymakers and local organizations while actively participating in community events. Her commitment to mentorship, rooted in her own experiences growing up in inner-city Detroit, includes supporting young professionals and hosting exchange students. A survivor of sexual abuse, she developed the workshop "Twisted, Unraveled, Refined" to inspire healing among women and continues her mentoring work with Big Brothers Big Sisters. Elycia frequently speaks on leadership, women's empowerment, and the Black experience, exemplifying her lifelong dedication to serving others.

Headshot for Jackson CobournJackson Coburn - (YOUTH AWARD NOMINEE)
Jackson Broderick Warren Coburn is a 16-year-old junior at Northfield High School, maintaining an impressive 3.9 GPA. Actively engaged in his community, he works as a lifeguard for the city of Aurora and is a member of the Kappa League and the Emmanuel Christian Center Youth Group. He has participated in lacrosse from grades 2 to 10 and volunteers for various causes, including the DCL Foundation Marathon and reading programs for DPS students. In his free time, Jackson enjoys reading, playing guitar and drums, swimming, and attending sports events with his family. His future goal is to graduate high school and pursue an MD at a local university. He is a member of the National Academy of Future Physicians and Medical Scientists and will attend their conference this June in Boston, Massachusetts. 

Headshot for The Honorable Joseph R. WhitfieldThe Honorable Joseph R. Whitfield
The Honorable Joseph Whitfield is a dedicated attorney, community servant, and family man in Colorado, currently serving as a District Court Judge in the 18th Judicial District after being appointed by Governor Polis in February 2021. With a strong background in law, including over 80 jury trials as an Assistant District Attorney, he is actively involved in various community roles, such as serving on the Highline Academy Board of Directors and holding leadership positions in the NAACP Aurora Colorado Chapter and the Sam Cary Bar Association. Judge Whitfield is committed to promoting equity in education, inspiring youth through courtroom visits, and coaching sports in local leagues, all while holding a law degree and an LL.M. in Intellectual Property and Technology Law. He is passionate about giving back to the community and is a devoted husband and father.

Kim Russell
Kim Russell has dedicated 30 years to Denver Adult Protective Services, supporting seniors who have faced mistreatment. She often works evenings and weekends to ensure she's available to her clients and their families. Her long-standing commitment to this challenging field is truly remarkable.

Headshot for LaSheita SayerLaSheita Sayer
LaSheita is a senior strategic leader with over 20 years of marketing and communication experience, dedicated to driving sustainable change through community engagement. She founded Women Who Charge Colorado to empower women in the electric vehicle sector and serves on the board of Five Points Business Improvement, focusing on sustainable development. With over a decade of experience in public information and community outreach, along with 16 years in business management, she excels at crafting strategic marketing plans and building brand identities. Passionate about remote community engagement and dedicated to promoting electric vehicles and battery storage solutions, LaSheita is committed to fostering a cleaner, sustainable future.

Headshot for Oheneba Osei-FordwuoOheneba Osei-Fordwuo - (YOUTH AWARD NOMINEE)
Oheneba has consistently demonstrated exceptional compassion and engagement at Regis Jesuit, frequently visiting the service and volunteer office to connect with others. His kindness is evident as he greets classmates with warmth and enthusiasm. Unlike many students who view service hour requirements as mere obligations, Oheneba actively seeks out opportunities to make a difference, completing 147 hours of community service over four years, including a recent passion for sustainable landscaping at Aurora Water Wise Gardens.

Headshot for Ronald SallyRonald Sally
Ronald Sally has created lasting opportunities for African American males in the Denver community. A native of North St. Louis, Missouri, Mr. Sally is a graduate of Duke University and UCLA School of Law. In response to the national crisis of declining numbers of African American male college graduates, Ronald's commitment to supporting his community led him to found and direct Project Greer Street (PGS), a college pipeline program aimed at African American males in Denver Public School high schools. His diligence and support have helped students who have completed the program be accepted to over 70 colleges nationwide and have collectively earned more than $6 million in scholarships and grants. 

Headshot for Wafa SaeedWafa Saeed
As the first national CEO and Executive Director of the Sudanese American Public Affairs Association (SAPAA), Wafa Saeed spearheaded impactful initiatives, including its Youth Leadership program, which mentors students in navigating life as children of immigrants. Her advocacy efforts have helped 264 community members register to vote and ensured their involvement in the 2022 US Census. Her work has empowered women in our community by assisting 24 individuals in obtaining certificates for their fields. Passionate about human rights, Wafa represented the U.S. delegate to speak on advocacy at a Human Rights Summit in Istanbul and orchestrated the #SudaneseWorldwide movement during Sudan's revolution, culminating in a national event that inspired the PBS documentary "Revolution from Afar." Her work has demonstrated a commitment to promoting equality, social justice, and inclusion.

Headshot for Xavier D. JenningsXavier D. Jennings
Xavier Jennings is the Director of the YouthBuild AmeriCorps program at Mile High Youth Corps. In this role, he empowers underserved youth by providing education, job readiness training, and leadership development. A former participant in YouthBuild himself, Xavier co-founded A Gang of Books to address educational inequities and has spent 15 years fostering growth and inclusion within his organization. He volunteers as a coach at the Boys and Girls Club and serves on the YouthBuild USA Board of Directors, solidifying his commitment to empowering others and inspiring future leaders.