Empowering Change: Honoring Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. and The Order of Eastern Star at BHRP 2025 - Theme: 'Speak Truth to Power: Silence Is Not an Option

(Black PR Wire) The 51st Annual New York State Bethune/Height Recognition Program (BHRP) Luncheon will take place on Saturday, May 17, 2025, from 12:00 PM at Leonard’s Palazzo in Great Neck, NY. Over 500 attendees are expected to gather for a day of empowerment, networking, and community recognition.

This year’s event theme, “Speak Truth to Power: Silence Is Not an Option,” highlights the continued mission of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) to uplift African American women through advocacy, leadership, and social justice.

Honorees:

Two NCNW Affiliate organizations will be honored at the luncheon for their outstanding community leadership:

• Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., for its commitment to advancing the welfare of women, youth, and families through service and education.

• The Order of Eastern Star, for its enduring contributions to the empowerment of women and families in communities in New York State.

Keynote Speaker: Rev. Shavon Arline-Bradley

The keynote address will be delivered by Rev. Shavon Arline-Bradley, President & CEO of NCNW. With over 21 years of experience in healthcare, diversity, equity, and inclusion, Rev. Arline-Bradley has been at the forefront of community health and social change. She served as Senior Advisor to the U.S. Surgeon General and as Executive Vice President of the NAACP, shaping policies and initiatives that impact marginalized communities. Her address will inspire attendees. Rev. Shavon is the sixth member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, to lead the historic organization. Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated is an NCNW affiliate.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, May 17, 2025

• Time: 12:00 PM

• Location: Leonard’s Palazzo, 555 Northern Blvd, Great Neck, NY 11021

• Ticket Price: $150 (General Admission)

Tickets are available via Eventbrite: https://NYSBHRP51.eventbrite.com. Don't miss your chance to be part of this historic event!

What is BHRP?

The Bethune/Height Recognition Program (BHRP) was established to honor the legacy of two remarkable women: Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, an educator and activist, and Dr. Dorothy I. Height, a trailblazer for civil rights and women’s issues. Each year, BHRP highlights the incredible achievements of individuals and organizations that continue to champion the causes of African American women and their communities.

The BHRP Luncheon serves as an opportunity to acknowledge these outstanding contributions while raising funds that support NCNW’s mission to promote positive social change, advocacy, and community service. These funds also allow for educational programming, scholarships, and leadership development opportunities.

BHRP National Chairs:

The BHRP Luncheon is led by the BHRP National Chairs: Johnnie M. Walker and Dawna Michelle Fields, whose leadership has helped take the event to new heights in 2025.With the assistance of the New York State Coalition Leadership: Ms. Johnnie M. Walker, Ms. Lynda F. Bagley, and Mrs. Evelyn Kinsey, along with their supportive team of committee chairs and coordinators.  

About NCNW:

The National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) is a non-profit organization dedicated to advocating for African American women. NCNW works to enhance the lives of families, promote positive social change, and empower women through education, leadership, and service. With 17 chapters across New York State, NCNW strives to make a meaningful difference in communities nationwide. The 17 sections located in New York State are as follows: Brooklyn, Co-op City, East Bronx, Flatbush, Hudson Valley, Huntington, Long Island Cross County, Manhattan, Metropolitan Women's Network (Rochester), Midwood and vicinity, Nassau County, North Bronx, Queens. Staten Island,  Suffolk, Syracuse, Westchester.

For media inquiries, to request images or logos, or to schedule an interview with the BHRP National Chairs, don't hesitate to contact Michelle or Eleanor from the Publicity Committee.

Please follow us on our social media channels: