African Americans Of Excellence

06/05/2026

About last night… what an amazing show!

06/04/2026

🌟 African Americans of Excellence Class of 2027 Honoree 🌟

Please join us in celebrating Bonnie J. Swann as a member of the African Americans of Excellence Class of 2027!

Bonnie’s life is a testament to the power of faith, service, and dedication to community. From a remarkable 40+ year career with GEICO to decades of volunteerism, mentorship, and leadership, she has touched countless lives throughout Frederick.

Whether serving as an election judge, supporting local scholarship programs, volunteering with community organizations, strengthening her church, or simply being a trusted friend and mentor, Bonnie has consistently led with compassion and purpose. Her impact extends far beyond titles and awards—it lives in the people she has encouraged, supported, and inspired along the way.

Congratulations, Bonnie, on this well-deserved recognition. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to making Frederick a stronger, more connected community.

06/01/2026

Congratulations to Bernard A. “Buddy” Hill on being named to the African Americans of Excellence 2027 class. ✨

For decades, Buddy has been a familiar and respected presence in Frederick, building a life defined by hard work, service, and dedication to community. As the longtime owner of one of the oldest Black-owned businesses on West All Saints Street, he helped preserve an important chapter of Frederick’s history while creating a place where friendships were formed, stories were shared, and generations felt connected.

From his years behind the barber chair to his work serving families as a grocer, Buddy’s impact extends far beyond business. His commitment to family, his entrepreneurial spirit, and his quiet leadership have left a lasting mark on countless lives throughout our community.

His story is a reminder that legacy is not measured only by accomplishments, but by the people you influence and the community you help strengthen along the way.

Please join us in celebrating Bernard A. “Buddy” Hill as an African Americans of Excellence 2027 honoree. 👏🏾🖤

05/27/2026

We are beyond honored to welcome Barbara Thompson to the African Americans of Excellence 2027 class! ✨🖤

Barbara has dedicated years of her life to preserving, celebrating, and sharing the rich African American history of Frederick County through her incredible work with the African American Resources Cultural and Heritage Society (AARCH). From leading the impactful Living Treasures Program to educating the community through storytelling, exhibits, and presentations, her passion has helped ensure that important voices and legacies are never forgotten.

Her leadership, commitment, and heart for the community have inspired generations and strengthened the cultural fabric of Frederick County. Barbara’s work is more than preservation, it is empowerment, education, and legacy in motion.

Please join us in congratulating Barbara Thompson on this well deserved recognition as an African Americans of Excellence 2027 honoree! 👏🏾🎉

05/24/2026

Please join us in welcoming Keivette Hammond as a member of the African Americans of Excellence 2027 Honoree Class!

Keivette’s impact on Frederick County reaches far beyond athletics. As Frederick High School’s Athletic Director, she has become a respected leader, mentor, and role model who continues to uplift students, coaches, and the community through integrity, accountability, and purpose-driven leadership.

As the first female Athletic Director at Frederick High School and the only African American Athletic Director in Frederick County, she has broken barriers while creating new opportunities for future generations. Her leadership helped launch girls flag football as a varsity sport in Maryland, opening doors for hundreds of student-athletes across the state.

Whether mentoring young people, supporting staff, or championing inclusion and excellence, Keivette leads with humility, strength, and heart. Her dedication to empowering others and building a culture of growth and opportunity makes her truly deserving of this honor.

Congratulations, Keivette Hammond, and welcome to the AAOE 2027 class. 👏🏾🖤

05/22/2026

7 Stories. 7 Legacies. 1 Community.

Mari Lee represents the very heart of community advocacy, leadership, and public service in Frederick County. Through decades of involvement in civic engagement, political advocacy, women’s leadership, and community organizing, Mari has dedicated her time and voice to ensuring residents are informed, empowered, and represented.

A longtime advocate for justice, equity, and opportunity, Mari has worked tirelessly behind the scenes and on the front lines with organizations including the Frederick County Democratic Central Committee, the Women’s Democratic League of Frederick County, Organizing for Action, voter registration initiatives, and numerous local causes that strengthen the Frederick community. Her commitment to public service has remained steady for years, fueled by a genuine passion for helping others and standing up for what is right.

Mari’s impact goes far beyond politics. She has become a trusted and respected voice in the community - someone who connects people, encourages civic participation, and consistently works to create positive change for Frederick County residents. Her leadership, dedication, and continued advocacy make her deeply deserving of being honored as part of the African Americans of Excellence Class of 2027.

05/21/2026

Tonight was our introductory gathering for the new class of honorees, and this is going to be a truly special group.

The energy, leadership, passion, and impact already in one room was inspiring. We are excited to celebrate these incredible honorees and continue building something meaningful for our community through art, storytelling, and connection.

A huge thank you to Alyse Cohen and the amazing team at SpringHill Suites for hosting us and making the evening so welcoming. We appreciate your support and partnership as we begin another unforgettable AAOE season.

Stay tuned for our February date and more details about our upcoming honorees! Adeyemi O. Fagbohun

05/20/2026

Congratulations to 2026 honoree, Olivia White and our partners, AARCH Society, on your generous grant from the Rotary Club of Carrol Creek! We cannot wait for you to open your doors!

05/18/2026

Another incredible piece of art is now on display at Kemp Hall/Candy Kitchen!. 🎨

“Anything is Possible” by Madison Ryerson of Frederick Community College is a powerful reminder of creativity, vision, and limitless potential through the eyes of our young artists.

We truly could not bring this project to life without the continued support of the Ausherman Family Foundation. Their investment in amplifying young artists and creating opportunities for emerging talent is helping transform our community through art and storytelling.

Be sure to stop by, experience the artwork, and celebrate the amazing talent right here in Frederick. 💫

05/08/2026

Congrats to our 2026 honoree, Leslie Barnes Keating, on this cover!! 🙌

The 7th Annual BOSS Issue just dropped and trust us… you’re going to want to read this one!

We’re talking 100+ powerhouse women, bold business moves, smart insights, inspiring stories and enough motivation to make you open Notes app and start planning your next big idea immediately.

Whether you need fresh inspiration, a reminder to think bigger, or just want to see what incredible women are building right now....

READ THE FULL ISSUE: LINK IN COMMENTS

Cover Image: Leslie Barnes-Keating
Shot By: SarahRachael Studios
Location: Roggenart