ALEXANDRIA, La. (2/22/2025) – The African American Culture Heritage Center, in partnership with the Rapides Parish Library, hosted Each Other’s Harvest: Fostering Community and Applauding Achievement in a morning filled with reflection, gratitude, and celebration. The event recognized distinguished individuals whose contributions in military service, education, law, athletics, and medicine have strengthened their communities and left a lasting impact.
The program began with a moving rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” led by the Peabody Magnet High School Choir in a standing-room-only library. The powerful performance set a tone of unity and pride, resonating with attendees. Reverend Franklin Randle followed with an invocation, offering a moment of gratitude and reflection.
Celise Reech-Harper, Rapides Parish Library Director, welcomed guests and emphasized the importance of honoring those who have dedicated their lives to service. LaKeisha Henton, Martin Luther King Jr. Branch Manager, spoke on the occasion, reminding attendees of the power of shared achievement. She encouraged everyone to reflect on the honorees’ dedication and their role in shaping a stronger, more connected community.
Honoring Distinguished Leaders
The “Tree of Achievement” award recognized an outstanding group of honorees whose careers and contributions continue to inspire future generations:
• Brigadier General Sherian Cadoria – A trailblazer in the U.S. Army, she was the first African American woman to achieve the rank of Brigadier General. Her military career, spanning nearly three decades, broke barriers for women and African Americans. After retiring, she became a mentor and speaker, inspiring future generations.
• Lee A. Dotson Jr. – A lifelong educator, Dotson served as a principal and administrator, shaping the lives of students and fellow educators. His leadership extended beyond the classroom into professional organizations and community service, leaving a lasting educational legacy.
• Dr. Haywood Joiner Jr. – A respected leader in education and healthcare, Dr. Joiner has played a key role in workforce development in the allied health field. His leadership in higher education has expanded opportunities for students pursuing careers in healthcare. A U.S. Air Force veteran, his service extends across education, medicine, and community development.
• Dr. Charles Joiner – A dedicated physician, veteran, and pastor, Dr. Joiner’s impact spans medicine and faith-based leadership. His career in family medicine, combined with his service in the U.S. Navy, has made him a pillar in both the medical and religious communities. His contributions to healthcare have helped shape better health outcomes for his community.
• Judge Dorothy Baker Reyes – A highly respected attorney and Superior Court judge, Reyes built a successful legal career before being appointed to the bench in Los Angeles. Her judicial service, spanning nearly two decades, ensured fairness and justice, making her a role model in the legal profession.
• Coach Charles Smith Jr. – A legendary high school basketball coach and educator, Smith led Peabody Magnet High School to multiple state championships. His influence extends beyond coaching, as he mentored over 70 athletes who earned college scholarships. Recognized nationally, he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest high school basketball coaches in history.
A Special Honor for Morris Taft Thomas
During the event, Ingrid Johnson delivered a special presentation honoring Morris Taft Thomas, a renowned international artist. Known for his artistic and cultural contributions, Thomas has spent a lifetime preserving and celebrating African American heritage. His surprise recognition added an emotional and meaningful moment to the celebration, highlighting his dedication to art, education, and community enrichment.
Celebrating the Harvest of Community Excellence
As Each Other’s Harvest: Fostering Community and Applauding Achievement continued through the morning, attendees reflected on the remarkable legacies of the honorees. Their contributions in military service, education, law, athletics, and medicine continue to inspire future generations. The African American Culture Heritage Center remains committed to recognizing those who cultivate success in their communities, ensuring that the harvest of achievement continues to grow for years to come.
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