The Rutgers African American Alumni Alliance has proudly unveiled the exceptional individuals who will be inducted into their 21st Anniversary Hall of Fame. This year, the tradition that began in 2004 continues to shine a spotlight on graduates who have made significant contributions to their communities, the University, or their respective fields. At the heart of this year’s celebration is the theme, “Because We Did, Others Will: Celebrating 21 Years of Unity Through Excellence!” FOR TICKETS AND INFORMATION: >> TICKETS/SPONSORSHIPS/REGISTER<<
The 2024 cohort of inductees epitomizes excellence and resilience, embodying the essence of role models for their peers. Let’s meet some of the outstanding individuals who have earned their place in this prestigious group:
– Toacca Bailey Rutherford ENG1994
– William Michael Barbee NCAS1996
– Pamela Brug DC1984, RWJMS1989
– Sandrine Desamours, Esq. DC1993
– Donita Devance EJB1990
– Patricia A. Fields UCNB1982
– Talya K. Fleming SAS2000, RWJMS2005
– Lorgia Garcia-Peña LC1998, GSE2002
– Katrina T. McCombs GSC2004
– William Spearman CCAS1986
– Jennifer Webb-McRae CLAW’94
– Monica Weeks RC1980, SC&I2022
This diverse group of inductees represents civic leaders, technical innovators, public health champions, artists, entrepreneurs, and community activists. They are symbols of inspiration to those around them, while drawing on the lessons of the rich legacy of their community and history, passed down by countless trailblazers who came before them.
For instance, Toacca Bailey Rutherford, a product owner at JPMorgan Chase, draws inspiration from her mother’s journey of overcoming barriers in the segregated South to earn a PhD. Motivated by her mother’s resilience, Toacca generously gives back by volunteering her time with professional societies and as a mentor.
Katrina T. McCombs, born into a Camden family of educators, has dedicated over 30 years to the Camden City School District. Holding a B.A. from Lehigh University, two Masters Degrees from Teachers College, Columbia University, and Masters of Public Administration from Rutgers University, she has served in various roles including teacher, principal, Director of Early Childhood, Deputy Superintendent, and now, State District Superintendent. Superintendent McCombs believes in the importance of developing key partnerships to support the district’s mission of Putting Students First by expanding opportunities for Camden students. Outside of her professional role, she is a wife, mother, mentor, and active community and church member.
Lorgia Garcia-Peña‘s parents immigrated to the United States to provide opportunities for her. In turn, she co-founded Freedom University Georgia, which offers tuition-free college instruction and support networks for undocumented students, showcasing her commitment to educational equity and access.
Medical doctors Pamela Brug and Talya K. Fleming have made significant contributions to their fields, advocating for equity, inclusion, and justice for underserved communities. Dr. Brug is the founder and president of the New Jersey Black Women Physicians Association, while Dr. Fleming received the 2023 Distinguished Public Service, Health Equity, and Advocacy Award from the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.
William Michael Barbee, a multi-talented individual as a filmmaker, director, author, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, channels his early life experiences to advocate for community transformation. Similarly, Assemblyman William (Bill) Spearman is recognized in New Jersey as a troubleshooter and problem-solver, known for his ability to develop solutions that benefit the public good.
Donita Devance and Patricia A. Fields are esteemed community builders at the forefront of positive change. Leveraging their experiences within major organizations, they have worked tirelessly to effect change at the grassroots level. Both are passionate about connecting young people to the arts and serving as strong role models in their communities.
Monica Weeks’ career spans two distinct paths, with a successful tenure in publishing/media followed by her current roles as the Director of Operations and Marketing at Crossroads Theatre Company and Executive Director of Hub City Jazz. Her dedication to the arts has led to the evolution of Hub City Jazz into a nonprofit organization providing valuable master classes and improvisation training to students in the New Brunswick District schools.
Jennifer Webb-McRae, the first African American and female Cumberland County prosecutor, has made significant strides in the field of criminal justice, focusing on intervention and rehabilitation strategies that have led to a substantial decrease in juvenile arrests. Her visionary leadership has garnered recognition and respect, serving under her third New Jersey governor.
Sandrine Desamours Esq., a protection officer at the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, has dedicated her life to advocating for humanitarian causes and alleviating human suffering globally. Her work in forced displacement, humanitarian and refugee law showcases her commitment to positively impact the world.
The induction ceremony for the Hall of Fame will take place on Saturday, October 5th, 2024, at the Hyatt Regency in New Brunswick, NJ. Interested individuals can purchase tickets through the RAAA website or by contacting RAAA. Event sponsorships and opportunities for space in a program journal are also available, providing a chance to support and celebrate these remarkable individuals.