The 100 Black Men of Greater Columbia celebrated excellence by hosting its 23rd annual Evening of Excellence gala and celebrated the 25th anniversary of the local organization. The black-tie affair took place Friday, December 13, 2024, at 6 p.m. at the Double Tree by Hilton hotel.
Guests enjoyed an evening of elegance that raises money for community outreach programs and scholarships for local deserving students. This year, the organization presented awards and honored those who have enhanced our community through their selfless acts of
kindness and generosity.
One of the highlights of the gala was the installation of new board members and swearing-in of the organization’s Chairman, The Honorable Jamie L. Devine.
Devine is a member of the Richland One Board of Commissioners, past president of the South Carolina School Boards Association (SCSBA). He is President/CEO of Community Assistance Provider, a local non-profit housing development corporation. Devine is a graduate of Benedict College and Treasurer of North Columbia Business Association (NCBA).
The 100 Black Men of Greater Columbia swore in new executive board members along with Devine. They are Ralph Bailey, Vice President, Craig Witherspoon, Secretary, Patrick Simmons, Treasurer, Daniel Johnson, Financial Secretary, Selby Artis, Parliamentarian, Dana Risi, Historian, and Bernard Graham, Chaplain. At-Large Members sworn in were Lee Coles, Ronald Epps, Paul Livingston, Troy Sheppard, and Steve Wilson. The Immediate Past Chairman Keith Melvin administered the oath of office.
