Martin University congratulates Dennis E. Bland, Esq. and Reginald O. Jones, Sr., who have been recognized among 26 other honorees by Recorder Media Group as Champions of Diversity. Bland has been named the recipient of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Freedom Award, while Jones has been selected as the recipient of the William G. Mays Excellence Award.
Dennis E. Bland, Esq., President of the Center for Leadership Development (CLD) in Indianapolis, has dedicated his career to advancing the educational and leadership potential of African American youth. His work at CLD has helped thousands of students pursue higher education and leadership roles, empowering the next generation. Bland earned an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Martin University in 2020, recognizing his lifelong commitment to equality, youth development, and community empowerment.
Reginald O. Jones, Sr. is a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist who owns and operates four McDonald’s franchises in central Indiana. He has demonstrated a deep commitment to supporting education and his community. Over 20 years, Jones provided scholarships to his crew members and developed an incentive program for Indianapolis Public Schools, offering more than 10,000 bikes to students who excelled in education. His dedication has earned him two Ray Kroc Awards as an exemplary McDonald’s owner, a regional Ronald Award for community contributions, and a Ronald McDonald House Charities Award of Excellence. Jones received an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Martin University in 2018.
We are proud to celebrate the remarkable achievements of Dennis and Reginald as recipients of these prestigious awards,” said Dr. Sean L. Huddleston, President of Martin University. “Their leadership and commitment to justice, education, and community service are core to the values of Martin University. Their work exemplifies what it means to uplift our communities.”
The Champions of Diversity Awards celebrate individuals and organizations across multiple industries who have demonstrated a commitment to advancing diversity and inclusion. This annual event brings together a diverse group of leaders and influencers to recognize those making a profound impact on their communities through their dedication to equity. All honorees will be celebrated at the annual awards dinner on January 17, 2025, at the JW Marriott Indianapolis, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. EST. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.indianapolisrecorder.com or contact ChampionsofDiversity@IndyRecorder.com or (317) 924-5143.
Founded in 1977, Martin University is Indiana's only Predominantly Black Institution (PBI) of higher education. It is steeped in a history of service, and its mission is to provide excellence in educating and developing traditional and non-traditional students in an inclusive, supportive, and healthy collegiate environment. Martin University's vision is to elevate the landscape while providing transformative opportunities, inclusive support, and service to our communities.