michelle spence jones_3_web.jpg(Florida International University) – The superintendent of Miami-Dade schools, the head of the Liberty City Trust and other community leaders will be honored when People United to Lead the Struggle For Equality (PULSE) hosts its “People’s Choice Awards” Wednesday, Sept. 21.


Miami Commissioner Michelle Spence-Jones will keynote the annual event, which honors

individuals whose commitment stands out in such categories as community activism, religious leadership and journalism.

The awards program will be held this year from noon to 2 p.m. at Liberty Hall, 1629 NW 42nd St. The event is free, but donations are requested.

PULSE, founded in 1982, works to eliminate discrimination in government, education and employment, and has spearheaded a number of anti-crime initiatives over the years.

The honorees this year are Miami-Dade school superintendent Albert Carvalho; community activists Jackie Bell, George Ellis and Herschel Haynes; Rev. Johnny Barber of Mount Sinai Missionary Baptist Church; Rev. Dennis Jackson of New Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church and Rev. Ralph M. Ross of Mount Zion Baptist Church.

Also being recognized this year are state Rep. Daphne Campbell; Henry Lewis III, president of Florida Memorial College; Charles Jackson, founder of “Making of a Champion”; Thema Campbell of the “Girl Power” program; Elaine Black, head of the Liberty City Trust; attorney Reginald Clyne; freelance writer Joy-Ann Reid; and Sandy Walker, editor of Gospel Truth Magazine.

For more information or to RSVP, contact PULSE at 305-576-7590.

Gavy Penagos may be contacted at gpena014@fiu.edu.

Photo: Michelle Spence-Jones