By Conner Tighe—
MUNCIE, IN—The Indiana Black Expo Muncie Chapter’s corporate luncheon honored community leaders for their service and advocacy.
The 30th annual luncheon, held July 31 at Cornerstone Center for the Arts and was sponsored by Shafer Leadership Academy. The event marked the start of the chapter’s Summer Celebration weekend and included remarks from local leaders. Featured speaker Ball State University President Geoffrey Mearns reflected on the individuals who inspired him and highlighting the power of education and community.
His message aligned with this year’s luncheon theme: Educate. Empower. Elevate.
The luncheon kicked off the chapter’s annual Summer Celebration at Heekin Park, which continued through the weekend.
“Events like the Black Expo Corporate Luncheon aren’t just celebrations, they’re affirmations,” said WaTasha Barnes Griffin, who served on the Muncie Chapter of IBE and organized the event. “These events were a powerful reflection of who we are, where we’ve been, and the promise of where we’re headed.” Barnes Griffin also is Chief Executive Officer of YWCA Central Indiana.
Muncie Human Rights Commission Executive Director Yvonne Thompson gave opening remarks. The event also honored several local leaders and changemakers with Bea Moten Foster Awards, named for the late founder of the Muncie Chapter of Indiana Black Expo and publisher of The Muncie Times.
Superintendent James Lawson received the Founders Award for decades of service to Muncie’s Whiteley neighborhood and the greater community as a spiritual leader and advocate for justice. His contributions were previously recognized through the naming of a street in honor of him and his wife, Joan Lawson.
Carl Malone, Superintendent of Muncie Parks and Recreation, was honored with the Community Service Award for his work in youth development, neighborhood revitalization, and violence prevention – especially his efforts to reduce gun violence and promote safe spaces for young people.
Angela Walker, a Muncie native and early childhood education entrepreneur, received the Community Youth Empowerment Service Award for her longtime commitment to children and families. Walker operates four daycare centers and multiple local businesses aimed at enriching the lives of youth.
Tracy Lewis, owner of Community Funeral Home in Muncie and Richmond, was awarded the Professional Service Award for his compassionate leadership in funeral services and his dedication to mentoring and community outreach.
Phyillies Burks, former Director of the Delaware County Minority Health Coalition, received a Community Service Award for her impactful health equity advocacy and efforts to eliminate healthcare disparities in the region. In addition to her work in public health, she also is an entrepreneur and event planner.
Kevin Woodgett, a pastor of Church of the Living God and president of the Concerned Clergy of Muncie, received a Community Service Award for leading with conviction and compassion, for championing both faith and fairness. His recognition marks his unwavering commitment to uplifting the spiritual and social well-being of the community and has left an indelible impact on countless lives.
