For Immediate Release
February 15, 2013
Contact Information

Luke Messecar
The Ictus Initiative
Luke@IctusInitiative.com
(617)-717-8294

(BPRW) From Humble Beginnings To Historic Achievements; Dr. Calvin Mackie Honored By Morehouse College

- Morehouse Alumnus Receives Legendary Bennie Award -

(BLACK PR WIRE)--Atlanta, GA (February, 2013) This Saturday, Dr. Calvin Mackie, motivational speaker, bestselling author, entrepreneur, and engineer, will be honored with the 2013 Bennie Award in Achievement during "A Candle in the Dark" Gala, part of the annual Founder's Week celebration at Morehouse College.

After high school, Dr. Mackie was accepted to Morehouse College under the condition that he undertake remedial classes first. Surpassing everyone's wildest expectations, he went on to graduate Magna Cum Laude and as a member of the prestigious Phi Beta Kappa National Honor Society. Over the course of 11 years, he earned four STEM degrees, reaching the peak of educational success with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from Georgia Tech. In 2003, he was presented with the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring.  

His work ethic and service have earned him countless awards. But receiving the Bennie Award in Achievement from the college that gave him his first chance is truly a remarkable honor.

During the Founders Week celebration, alumni and supporters will gather for the "A Candle in the Dark" Gala. This black-tie event displays the talents of Morehouse students, showcases the college's tradition of building leaders, and celebrates nationally-acclaimed African Americans who are pioneers within their industries. Dr. Mackie is one of three alumni who will receive Bennie Awards, which are named after Dr. Benjamin E. Mays, Morehouse's president from 1940 to 1967.

"I am surprised, honored, and humbled by this recognition," says Dr. Mackie. "To all my family, friends, teachers, educators, and mentors, thank you for your enduring support that you've provided throughout my life. My days as a student at Morehouse College were instrumental in building the foundation for who I am today. There is no better feeling than being recognized for living up to the high expectations that Morehouse helped me establish."

Dr. Mackie completed his degree in Mathematics at Morehouse in 1990, graduating Magna Cum Laude and as a member of the prestigious Phi Beta Kappa National Honor Society. He was simultaneously awarded a Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering from Georgia Tech, where he subsequently earned his Master and PhD in Mechanical Engineering. He cherishes his educational experiences and continues to be actively involved with both institutions.

The author of A View from the Roof (Acanthus Publishing, 2005) and Grandma's Hands (Acanthus Publishing, 2012), Dr. Mackie has won numerous awards. In addition to the 2003 Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring, he has received the 2002 Black Engineer of the Year Award for College Level Educator, the 2002 New Orleans Data News Weekly Trailblazer Award, and the Pi Tau Sigma/ASME Excellence in Teaching Award in Mechanical Engineering for 2000 and 2002. On Friday, February 15, 2013, he will also receive the coveted Legacy Award from the United Negro College Fund for his long-standing record of encouraging students to realize their full potential.

For more information on Dr. Mackie, visit www.CalvinMackie.com.

#####

About Dr. Calvin Mackie

Dr. Calvin Mackie is an award-winning engineer, internationally-renowned motivational speaker, successful entrepreneur, author, and arbiter of social change. He is a recognized and respected authority on business decision-making and ethics, leadership, educational excellence, and mentorship. He has won numerous awards, including the 2003 Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring, which he received at the White House.

His first, best-selling book, A View from the Roof - Lessons for Life & Business (Acanthus Publishing, 2005) offers life lessons that empowered him to reach his dreams without compromising his values. It is now in its sixth printing and has sold over 40,000 copies around the world. His second award-winning book, Grandma's Hands: Cherished Moments of Faith and Wisdom (Acanthus Publishing, 2012) celebrates the enduring values of the women in Dr. Mackie's life, offering their guidance and wisdom for the challenges of 21st-century life.

Mackie is currently a partner in Golden Leaf Energy (GLE) www.GoldenLeafEnergy.com. GLE produces biodiesel, which is a clean-burning, renewable alternative to petroleum-based diesel made from natural, renewable, sustainable sources, such as vegetable oils.  The company distributes to commercial clients, including the Louisiana Hollywood film production industry and operates a 2.2 million gallon, multi-feed stock facility in Southeast Louisiana.

Dr. Mackie currently resides in New Orleans with his wife, Tracey, and his two sons, Myles and Mason.