COMMUNITY LEADERS TALK UNITY, SERVANT-LEADERSHIP AT BLACK HISTORY FORUM

Josh Blaschke March 1, 2022

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Washington County Judge John Durrenberger speaks Monday at the James Emerson Dennis, Jr. Memorial Black History Forum at the Cannery Kitchen in Brenham.

A message of unity was delivered Monday night at the Cannery Kitchen in Brenham.

Several local dignitaries spoke to a near-capacity crowd for the fourth and final program of last month’s James Emerson Dennis, Jr. Memorial Black History Forum. Seven speakers discussed the history of Brenham and Washington County, the current state of the community and its path into the future, as well as how to be a servant-leader.

Washington County Judge John Durrenberger talked about Washington County’s collaborative nature and the ability for anyone to become a leader.

State Senator Lois Kolkhorst delivers a speech Monday at the Cannery Kitchen, during the James Emerson Dennis, Jr. Memorial Black History Forum.

State Senator Lois Kolkhorst said the residents of Brenham and Washington County have a unique spirit that attracts people from all around and inspires generosity and a drive to serve.

Others who spoke Monday night were Brenham Mayor Milton Tate, Blinn College Dean for Institutional Diversity and Equity Dr. Bennie Graves, Brenham ISD Superintendent Dr. Tylor Chaplin, Brenham Police Chief Ron Parker and Blinn College Police Chief John Chancellor.

Last month’s forum series highlighted the establishment of the James Emerson Dennis, Jr. Black History Club at Brenham High School, consisting of 27 students from grades 10-12. A $5,000 scholarship has been established in Dennis’ name through Mt. Rose Missionary Baptist Church, and will be presented to a senior club member. In addition, a $15,000 endowed scholarship at Blinn College is being established in the name of Eddie Harrison.

Sponsors and supporters for the forum series included Mt. Rose Missionary Baptist Church; PlanNorth Architectural Co.; Faith Mission/Cannery Kitchen; Brenham City Councilwoman Leah Cook; Dawn of Grace Behavioral Health, PLLC, Golden Years Homecare Specialist; Building Bridges to the Bahamas and Beyond Radio Broadcast; LJ’s BBQ; DC Solutions; 94.1 Lite FM KLTR; KWHI AM 1280; Brenham Banner-Press; DJ Power; Brenham Activist Association; and Brenham ISD Superintendent Dr. Tylor Chaplin.

Anyone interested in contributing to the scholarship funds can make checks payable to Mt. Rose Missionary Baptist Church or call the church at 979-836-3021.

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