Jax Community Champion Rodney Hurst Honored at Orlando’s ONYX Men of Honor Awards

Shown is Rodney Hurst receiving his award from Alvin Cowans, President, McCoy Federal Credit Union; Nancy Port Schwalb - MOH Co-chair; Rich Black, ONYX Magazine publisher, Awardee Rodney Hurst; Mayor Jerry Demings, Orange County; Dee Parker - MOH chair; Quibulah Graham - Sr. Director Orlando Health Diversity & Minority Business Development.

“The Tallest Trees in the Forest,” a theme encouraged by Dr. Mary McLeod-Bethune was the theme for the 5th annual ONYX Magazine’s Men of Honor (MOH) event celebrating Black achievement and honoring men who epitomize strength, resilience, and humble power.

The black-tie awards dinner was recently held at the Rosen Centre Hotel in Orlando.

The list included two of Jacksonville’s prominent community leaders Florida Blue executive Darnell Smith and author and activist Rodney Hurst. Darnell Smith, Florida Blue Health Care Market President (North Florida Region), has been a health care executive for more than 25 years and continues to lead as a community liaison through Jacksonville’s Mayors office. Hurst was only 16 and President of the Jacksonville Youth Council NAACP when he and NAACP members held an August 27, 1960 sit-in demonstration, known as ‘Ax Handle Bloody Sunday’ civil rights demonstration protest in Hemming Plaza. Hurst personally continues to advocate for black excellence, promoting African American heritage, legacy and success. In addition, Hurst is also the author of the best seller, “It  Was Never About a Hotdog and a Coke!” detailing his Ax Handle Sunday experience.  MOH recognized Errol “Doc” Holliday as the Man of the Year. Holliday is known for his work as an engineer on the NASA Hubble Space Telescope. The International Man of Honor is Sir Franklyn Wilson, a businessman and philanthropist from The Bahamas.

ONYX Magazine presented additional awards that honored community advocacy, the Rich Black vanguard award, publishers award and four scholarships to young men aspiring to higher education.

Launched in 1997, the Orlando-based magazine remains committed to empowering its readers by offering stories and editorials focused primarily on the interests of Black people in America, while promoting seamless, diversified connection with other cultures. Learn more about ONYX Magazine’s Men of Honor at www.onyxmenofhonor.com.

 

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