Pictured above: Hassina Adams at the TLC 30th Anniversary Awards Dinner | Photo by: Ben Cleeton
In celebration of The Leadership Classroom (TLC)’s 30th anniversary and the 2024-2025 graduating class, we hosted an awards dinner to honor organizations and individuals creating impactful change in our region. Five recipients received special awards to honor their contributions to local communities:
2024 ALUMNI AWARDS:
100 Black Men of Syracuse: 100 Black Men of Syracuse initially began as an idea conceived by Jerome Walker and Walter Eiland following their 1995 participation in The Million Man March. In 2007, the organization convened approximately 30 black men who shared the common concerns of the Syracuse community. The group recognized the necessity for a stronger presence of African American males working to halt the deterioration of their neighborhoods and a strong desire to rebuild a sense of community from within.
Meachem Area Park Association: Meachem Area Parks is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that focuses on building a better Valley community through the maintenance of parks and supporting educational, cultural and historical pursuits.
North Side Learning Center: Founded in 2009 by members of the local refugee and immigrant communities, the North Side Learning Center (NSLC) is a learning community that cultivates trusted, respectful relationships with New Americans to Syracuse who are pursuing their fullest potential and dreams.
2024 LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD:
Helen Hudson is Syracuse’s first female African American Common Council President. Helen has a strong commitment to fair treatment and equal opportunity. Her advocacy extends to supporting the city’s youth and marginalized communities, earning her numerous awards throughout her career. Helen is known for her genuine passion for helping others and her dedication to serving the people of Syracuse.
2024 GRASSROOTS LEADER OF THE YEAR:
Hassina Adams, from Johannesburg, South Africa, embodies the African philosophy of Ubuntu, emphasizing shared humanity in her personal and professional life. As a board member of Interfaith Works of Central New York, she focuses on empowering New Americans to thrive in their new communities. In her role as vice-president of the New American Forum, she advocates for immigrants and refugees, ensuring they have the tools to build successful futures.
The Leadership Classroom (TLC) is a program for residents or grassroots groups that are or want to be active in improving the quality of life in their neighborhoods. Through intensive and interactive training sessions with other resident leaders, TLC teaches the practical skills that help make stronger, more effective neighborhood
