By Rosaland Tyler
Associate Editor
New Journal and Guide
Norfolk Mayor Kenny Alexander will deliver the keynote address at the 14th annual 900 Men Strong Scholarship and Community Services Awards Breakfast, which will be held April 12 at the Chesapeake Conference Center from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m.
Alexander has served as mayor of Norfolk since May 2016. He was re-elected in May 2020. Alexander previously served in the Virginia Senate from 2012 to 2016 and in the House of Delegates from 2002 to 2012. He is the president of Metropolitan Funeral Service. He earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from Old Dominion University, a master’s degree in diplomacy from Norwich University, and a Ph.D. in Leadership and Change from Antioch University. He is the author of “Persistence: Evelyn Butts and the African-American Quest for Full Citizenship and Self Determination.”
This year’s scholarship breakfast theme is “Making a Difference through Education.” Tickets cost $50. Proceeds will fund $1,500 scholarships for male high school students who are working toward achieving academic excellence on a post-secondary level.
“We will also honor the contributions from some distinguished men, who have made significant contributions toward the advancement of our community,” the organization noted in a statement on its website. “These will be dedicated men who have made outstanding contributions toward helping our youth and others throughout the Hampton Roads community.”
Launched for young boys and men, “especially those from historically disadvantaged backgrounds” who are far more likely to face discrimination and high unemployment, the annual fundraiser has awarded over $82,000 in scholarships to 75 male high school seniors. At least 6,500 men and boys have attended this event.
Multiple sponsors support this year’s event including Senator Louise Lucas, Optima Health, United Way of South Hampton Roads, Ark Insurance (Allstate), Meeks Consulting, CLP Tax and Wealth Advisory and Towne Bank. Faith-based partners include First Baptist Church South Hill, Grove Church, and Divine Baptist Church.
Individual and corporate tickets and sponsorships are still available.
For more information, please phone (757) 627-7222 or email – 900MenStrong@Gmail.com. 900 Men Strong is headquartered at Second Calvary Baptist Church, 2940 Corprew Ave., Norfolk, VA 23504. The Rev. Dr. Geoffrey Guns is the senior pastor.
