Gulf Atlantic Newsmakers: Honoring Black History Month with 2nd Day Dedication of 38th Black Heritage Stamp Honoree

Before a standing room-only crowd, Marketing Manager Lucious Sumlar, Postmaster Jean Lovejoy, and keynote speaker Dr. Nathaniel Glover revealed the 38th Black Heritage Stamp Forever Stamp honoring architect and educator Robert Robinson Taylor at the Black History Program held at Jacksonville P&DC Café. Manager, Consumer and Industry Contact, Tony Joy was the master of ceremonies for a fantastic program.

There were performances by students from John E. Ford Montessori Magnet School including the MS Dance Triad’s “Black & White” dance rendition. The keynote speaker was Dr. Nathaniel Glover, presently the president of Jacksonville’s Edward Waters College, and formerly the first African American Sheriff in the State of Florida (Jacksonville, FL). Dr. Glover delivered a rendering, insightful presentation of his life’s journey and challenges on his road of success and encouraged the attendees to always help and do right for others.

The honor of Postal Ambassador was bestowed upon Living Legend Mr. Lloyd Pearson. Mr. Pearson is 93-years young, was a letter carrier for 35 years and retired 35 years ago but still supports the Postal Service on every letter he mails. The envelope always has “Buy special postage stamps with your “Credit Card”…Call 1-800-782-6724” pasted on its exterior. Mr. Pearson, healthy and full of energy and conversation, has a life history of being actively involved with the Civil Rights and Voter Registration movement. He proudly attended the 1963 March on Washington and the 50th Anniversary March.

A surprise highlight of the program was Mr. Pearson’s great grandniece Breanna Leonard, also a student at the school, did a tribute to her late great grandfather Rutledge Pearson who is Mr. Pearson’s brother. Neither Breanna nor Mr. Pearson were aware of each other’s presence on the program. Postmaster Jean Lovejoy presented Dr. Glover with a framed Robert Robinson Taylor stamp artwork, Mr. Pearson with a framed Rosa Parks’ “Courage” stamp artwork, and Certificates of Appreciation to the student participants.

A special thank you is extended to all participants, committee members, and support staff for an outstanding program.

L-R (seated): Operations Integration Specialist Quinetta White, Dr. Nathaniel Glover, Postmaster Jean Lovejoy, Field Financial Specialist Brendlether ‘Lisa’ Robinson, Mr. Lloyd Pearson, Marketing Manager Lucious Sumlar. Standing (L-R): Supervisor Distribution Operations Valerie Hayes, Business Service Network Representative Rachelle Gilliard.