Distinguished Journalism Award Presented for Four Decades of Community Leadership and Empowerment
The Williams Bridge Branch of the NAACP marked its 67th Anniversary with a memorable Freedom Fund Awards Gala — a vibrant celebration of history, service, and community pride. The evening brought together leaders, elected officials, and residents of the Bronx to honor those whose work continues the NAACP’s mission of equality, opportunity, and justice. Among the night’s distinguished honorees were Faye and Karl Rodney, founders and publishers of Carib News, who received the Distinguished Journalism Award for their outstanding contributions to the Caribbean American community.
President’s Reflections on Legacy and Purpose
Branch President Laura Roden opened the program with heartfelt remarks, calling it both a privilege and an honor to serve as president during such a milestone year. “While we proudly celebrate, we must never forget our founders who saw the need for this organization,” she said, reminding the audience that “the need for the NAACP remains today as we continue to fight for equal opportunities, economic development, education, health care, and social justice.”
Roden also paid tribute to the late Dr. Hazel Dukes, who devoted 48 years of service to the NAACP and whose lifelong dedication helped shape the organization’s impact across New York State.
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Honoring the Rodneys and the Carib News Legacy
In presenting the Distinguished Journalism Award, the Williams Bridge NAACP recognized Faye and Carl Rodney for “fulfilling a community void” through their pioneering work in founding and sustaining The Carib News, which for 43 years has been a trusted voice within the Caribbean American community. The citation praised the publication’s commitment to “promoting values and contributions of the community” and highlighted its role in connecting the Caribbean diaspora with global leaders — from members of the U.S. Congress to Caribbean prime ministers — through in-depth coverage, analysis, and advocacy.
The Rodneys’ leadership, the NAACP noted, has made Carib News “an institution in the community,” building bridges across generations and nations while giving visibility to issues of equity, education, and empowerment. Their work, it was emphasized, complements the mission of the NAACP itself — strengthening community development and uplifting the voices of the underserved.
A Heartfelt Acceptance
In their acceptance remarks, Faye and Karl Rodney expressed deep gratitude to the Williams Bridge Branch for the honor and for its consistent service to the Bronx community. They recalled their long association with the NAACP — from local branches to the New York State Conference and even to the National Board — noting their collaboration on business conferences, editorial initiatives, and community partnerships.
They lauded the Williams Bridge Branch for its decades-long Early Childhood Education Program, calling it “a building block of hope and opportunity for families.” The Rodneys also paid personal tribute to Dr. Hazel Dukes, describing her as a “dynamic and tireless force whose leadership and passion have inspired generations.”
Other Honorees and a Community United
The gala also recognized several exceptional individuals whose work continues to strengthen the Bronx and beyond.
- Troy Thomas received the Youth Award;
- Evelyn Mallett earned the Community Service Award;
- Dr. Marabi Torres-Hulla was presented the Education Award;
- Virginia Krompinger, Esq. received the Public Service Award;
- Dr. Gloria Bent was honored with the Health Award; and
- Lieutenant Colonel Benjamin Hermantin received the Military Leadership Award.
In addition, several Generation Leadership Awards were presented to young leaders encouraged to continue the NAACP’s legacy of service.
Elected Officials and Community Presence
The evening drew strong support from public officials and civic leaders, including Congressman Ritchie Torres, City Council Member Trevor Riley, Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson, and District Attorney Darcel Clark, herself a member of the branch. Judges Michelle Sweeting and Michelle Rodney, along with other jurists and dignitaries, joined in offering congratulations to the honorees.
The gala concluded with music, camaraderie, and a shared spirit of purpose — a true reflection of what the NAACP has meant to the Williams Bridge community for nearly seven decades. For Faye and Carl Rodney, the honor was both humbling and affirming — a recognition of a lifetime of service through journalism that continues to inform, inspire, and empower.
