By Robert Smith, Founder/CEO of AALP
Special to The Truth
The African American Legacy Project (AALP), long recognized as a trusted steward of African American history, is proud to celebrate six distinguished men and women who have – through their professions and … service to community touched the lives of both children and adults, embracing community while continuing to represent the best of us and the best in us while lifting… the least among us.
The work these six men and women accomplished while navigating communities and cultures has – until this moment – always been understated, Amazingly, as uniquely different as these six men and women are, they share similar characteristics. If you know members of this group – mildly or intimately – you know there is a common thread of passion. You know there is this extraordinary sense of decency and you know there is this generous faith in humanity bridged by a sense of hope.
Their passion for people is evidenced in their exhaustive work. For example: Our entire community pays homage to Flute Rice for his brilliant and innovative approach to stimulating young men and women both at Spencer Sharples and Scott High Schools to dare to dream, to reach for the moon and … to take the time to reach back and lift someone else. No longer with us, Flute Rice’s continued community presence is constantly elevated. He is considered the single individual who brought pride to Scott High School. “Once a Bulldog…” Rice’s family will join us in our warm October celebration honoring his legacy
Cecelia M. Adams, PhD, – a native of Toledo, Ohio and product of Toledo Public Schools later earned her Bachelor of Science Degree from Mary Manse College, and ultimately earned a PhD in Educational Administration and Supervision from the University of Toledo. First and foremost, Cecelia Adams is a scientist, but… she clearly is a multi-faceted leader with generous experiences across several disciplines including: serving as President of the Toledo School Board and as a distinguished member of Toledo City Council. This member of Delta Sigma Theta, who is frequently lauded for her ability to listen, interpret and develop solutions on every level, remains fluent and influential throughout the community.
Laneta Goings must be considered a thoughtful leader whose use and association with the written word continues to help elevate community thought and … vitality. In 1974, this TPS and UT alumna, joined The Toledo Blade and was promoted to assistant to the Publisher [ Paul Block, Jr]. She retired as vice president of the Blade Foundation in 2001 and …as a realtor in 2023. This member of the Toledo Chapter of the Links has served numerous organizations including serving as YWCA Chair in 1996, under Laneta Goings’ administration the YWCA’s Milestones award launched, As president and cofounder of Books4Buddies, Inc. Goings confines to fondly embrace lifting community by teaching young men that books can broaden their horizons and serve as their passport to the world.
J.D. Jackson is an artist, educator and sculptor whose talents and experiences are extraordinary. J.D. Jackson, began his public art career at age 12, taking first place from over 6,000 entries in a Toledo Blade Christmas Coloring Contest. This Scott High School alum trained at Bowling Green State University and Michigan State University, He taught at Michigan State University, Bowling Green State University and The Ohio State University, He is one of the founders of “The Confederation of Black Artists” (COBA). He studied under American Regionalist painter and lithographer John S. DE Martelly. J.D. Jackson’s many works include a concrete frieze relief mural titled, “Soliloquy on the Origins of Aboriginal Abstractions” which adorns the entrance of the Frederick Douglass Community Center. Welcome home J.D. Jackson!
Richard Jackson, Sr. is the consummate educator, say those who know him best. They know his heart and soul have always been wrapped in elevating kids. Educated in the Toledo Public Schools and St Francis High School, Richard Jackson has fluently navigated and negotiated opportunities for the children of this community. During his 38-year career with TPS. He taught at Ella P. Stewart and Robinson Jr. High Schools. Subsequently, he spent the next 31 years in administration — from assistant principal to principal, to school improvement leader, finally retiring as assistant superintendent for Administration & School and Community Relations and Legislative Services for TPS. On Saturday, October 11, 2025, Jackson will be honored for his life of service to our community
Dr. Warren Marshall, DDS, – a 1966 graduate of Jessup W. Scott H.S.- earned his undergraduate degree from Texas Southern University, and his Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) from Meharry Medical College, School of Dentistry, He served as a captain and dental officer in the U.S. Air Force. Concluding his tour in 1980, he returned to Toledo and established his private dental practice serving this community for four decades. Additionally, Dr. Marshall spent more than 25 years engaging youth as a basketball official throughout our northwest Ohio region He served the Cordelia Martin Health Clinic and remains a faithful member of his church (All Saints Episcopal). Even in his retirement, you will hear a past patieny exclaim, “ …that’s my dentist. Join us when we present Dr. Marshall his personalized Kente representing his life of service
Help us celebrate these committed, authentic and resilient community leaders, 1:00 p.m. Saturday, October 11 at the Pinnacle [Maumee, OH]. Or join 6:30 p.m. Friday, October 10, 2025 as The AALP awards and launches NexGen. NexGen is bold new youth engagement initiative designed to identify, celebrate, and prepare the next generation of African American leaders in Toledo.
The youth leaders will receive their awards in front of our 2025 Honorees during a hospitality event held at the Toledo Club in downtown Toledo.
For tickets and information, please call 419-720-4369