WIN Scholarships and Awards Luncheon
L
os Angeles Women in NAACP recently gathered at the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel, Culver
City, to celebrate their 30th Annual Scholarship and Awards Luncheon. The theme for the
afternoon, “Women of Note,” included recognition of six women from the community for their
noteworthy contributions of “Making a Difference” in the lives of others. Honorees included:
Dr. Hansonia Caldwell, professor of music emeritus at Cal State Dominguez Hills; Mrs. Danellen
Joseph, retired music teacher and symphony performer; Mrs. Kim DeLay-Manning, community
activist; Mrs. Marlene Smith, Chief of Communications and Training Academy for Los Angeles
County DPSS; Mrs. Deborah Weathersby, law enforcement history with Los Angeles County
Sheriff’s Department, District Attorney’s Office, Superior Court and Probation department; and
Mrs. Arietta Woods, accomplished musician and harpist. Each honoree had an inspiring story
to share about having a goal, pursuing it and reaching their dream in spite of the odds and
obstacles.
Seven freshmen to college were recipients of the WIN 2015 Scholarships [see the next page for
pictures]: Candace Downing, Savannah College of Art; Aliyah Hale, Howard University; Camille
Harris, U C Berkeley; Rolland Harris, Cal State Northridge; Alexis Shelton, San Francisco State;
Tabitha Theard, West L A College; and Krysten Lynem-Wilson, Howard University. Although
most of the students were away attending their respective colleges, a family representative in
attendance accepted their scholarship with remarks about the students’ progress.
Mistress of Ceremonies, Mrs. Vanzella Janisse, a high-energy personality, kept the program
moving with wit and clever anecdotes. Mr. Rufus Jones, songster and performer, volunteered
his musical talents throughout the luncheon with melodies “old and new.” A special delight
illuminated the room when Rufus paid tribute to the Women of Note with his rendition of “You
are So Beautiful.”
The Luncheon concluded with greetings and remarks from Los Angeles NAACP President, Mrs.
Minnie Hadley-Hempstead, who congratulated the honorees and scholarship recipients. Mrs.
Hempstead encouraged those in attendance to continue to support the NAACP with their
membership because “Membership is the Lifeblood of the NAACP.”
This year’s luncheon was chaired by Women in NAACP Chairwoman, Mrs. Mary Ann Smith and
Co-Chair, Mrs. Roberta Jones. Finally, no luncheon would be complete without Door Prizes!
Twelve winners left feeling lucky and uplifted. Meanwhile, the 50/50 winner walked away with
$199.00 in cash!
An outstanding afternoon was enjoyed by all attendees!
Candace Downing, Savannah College of
Aliyah Hale, Howard University
Art/Design
Camille Harris, University of California, Berkeley
Alexis Shelton, San Francisco State
Roland Harris, California State, Northridge
Tabatha Heard, West Los Angeles College
Krysten Lyman-Wilson, Howard University