Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

The Archdiocese of Louisville's Office of Multicultural Ministry held its 37th annual African American Catholic Leadership Awards Dinner on May 17 at the Hyatt Regency Louisville. The event celebrated the achievements of young people and adults in the community.

Eight young individuals were awarded Rodriq McCravy Scholarship Awards, while nine adults were recognized for their leadership contributions. M. Annette Mandley-Turner, executive director of the ministry office, encouraged the young awardees to invest in themselves and their faith. "Whatever you do, invest in you. Invest in your faith," she stated, emphasizing the importance of dedicating time to personal growth and religious engagement.

Mandley-Turner also reminded them of their roots and urged them to actively participate in church activities. "We’re all standing on somebody’s shoulders," she said, highlighting their responsibility towards the church. She called upon parents and adults to engage with parishes and schools, thanking them for their commitment to nurturing their children's development.

Special mention was made of Alexis Cammack, a recipient of the Deacon James and Mrs. M. Annette Turner Leadership Award, who recently graduated from the University of Louisville’s Brandeis School of Law.

Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre delivered closing remarks focusing on hope during this Jubilee Year declared by Pope Francis. He noted that hope can be found locally as well as globally: "We can find hope wherever we are."

The honorees included recipients from various churches across Kentucky:

- Rodriq McCravy Award: Malia King (St. Dominic Church), James Davis Jr. (St. Augustine Church), Sophia Griffin (Our Lady of Lourdes Church), Mina Nyalwal (St. Albert the Great Church), Remii Foshay, Armonte Snodgrass, Ka’Myah Porter, Sophie Muzomwe (St. Martin de Porres Church).

- Acacia Award: J. Vincent Johnson (Diocese of Memphis) and Rita Ward (St. William Church).

- Genevieve Boone Award: Maria Arlene Spalding Pasley (Holy Rosary Church).

- Deacon James & M. Annette Mandley-Turner Leadership Award: Rashida Walker, Susan Yocum Smith, Alexis Cammack (St. Augustine Church), Kelvin Brooks (Immaculate Heart of Mary Church), Dr. Beverly Johnson (St. Bartholomew Church), David Msia (St. Martin de Porres Church).