Derrick Hayes Honored in Richmond VA by Mayor
The City of Richmond commemorated Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in a truly special and inspiring way this year. Recognizing the importance of connecting young people with the dreamer and legacy builder, city leaders invited CEO, Founder, and philanthropist Derrick Hayes to share his works and insights. The event, held at Virginia Union University (VUU), a place where MLK himself walked, worked, and empowered people, aimed to remember, reflect, and inspire the youth of Richmond.
The VUU Living and Learning Center served as the gathering place for generations to come together and honor the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. Several esteemed speakers shared their thoughts, including VUU President Dr. Hakim Lucas, consultant Ron Keith, City of Richmond AmeriCorps Manager Paul Manning, moderator Naomi Lewis, Director of Faith-Based Initiatives at Virginia Union University Dr. Rodney Waller, and Mayor Levar M. Stoney. The event was further enriched by a beautiful rendition of "Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing" performed by the VUU Choir, under the direction of Joel Lester.
This event signifies a renewed commitment by the City of Richmond to invest in the youth and empower them to recognize their potential. By connecting young people to the vision and legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr., the goal is to inspire the next generation of dreamers and legacy builders. Mayor Levar M. Stoney, in recognition of Derrick Hayes' contributions, proclaimed JANUARY 15TH, 2024, AS YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND EMPOWERMENT DAY.
"Derrick Hayes has dedicated his life to empowering young people and fostering entrepreneurship," said Mayor Levar M. Stoney. "By honoring him on this special day, we hope to inspire our youth to dream big, pursue their passions, and make a positive impact on their communities."
The City of Richmond's celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day through this unique event at Virginia Union University serves as a testament to the city's commitment to fostering a brighter future for its youth. By connecting them with the teachings and legacy of MLK, the event aims to instill a sense of purpose, empowerment, and social responsibility in the young minds of Richmond.
