The Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio announces that Treva Reid has joined its team as the Executive Director of the Holloman Center for Social Justice. 

Treva most recently served as a City Council member in Oakland, California, where she was a transformative leader in legislative policymaking, economic development, and public safety reform. She has authored and sponsored over 100 legislative measures, championing affordable housing, workforce training, and community-led violence prevention programs. During her tenure, Oakland made historic investments to reimagine public safety, secured a $100 million privately funded Rise East Oakland initiative to address systemic inequities facing Black residents, and launched Oakland Resilient Families, one of the nation’s largest guaranteed income pilots rooted in eliminating racial wealth disparities and building financial security. 

Prior to election in November 2020, Treva held leadership roles at Pacific Gas & Electric Company, the California State Assembly, and Ford Motor Company, where she developed expertise in strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and corporate-community partnerships. She has successfully directed multi-billion-dollar budgets, secured significant funding for critical initiatives, and built programs that drive lasting impact. 

As Executive Director of the Center for Social Justice, Treva will lead efforts in policy reform, advocacy, and mobilization on critical social justice issues, including police reform, voter suppression, and economic equity. She will work closely with municipalities, grassroots organizations, and strategic partners. 

“We are thrilled to welcome Treva Reid to the Urban League family,” said Christie Kuhns, Esq., President and CEO of the Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio. “Her incredible background in public service, policy advocacy, and community engagement makes her the perfect person to continue the impactful work of the Holloman Center for Social Justice. Treva’s existing relationships and family ties in Cincinnati make her transition seamless, and her leadership will undoubtedly strengthen our efforts to achieve equity and economic empowerment for all. She is a phenomenal addition to our leadership team.” 

“As a Cincinnati native, I am thrilled to return to join this dynamic organization,” said Reid. “My entire career has focused on uplifting others, securing equitable investments, unlocking access to opportunities, and advancing just outcomes for all to thrive. This role allows me to continue doing work I am passionate about, where I was mentored as an Urban League Young Professional. I am excited to help build with our incredible team on our policy priorities, deepen community engagement, and expand the Center’s impressive impact.” 

Please join the Urban League in welcoming Treva Reid to the Urban League family. 

About the Holloman Center for Social Justice 

Established in 2020, the mission of the Holloman Center for Social Justice is to serve as a regional catalyst for collaborative police reform efforts between communities and police departments in Southwestern Ohio. We are committed to engaging in policy advocacy, data collection and reporting, community education, and organizing to advance justice. 

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The Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio (ULGSO) announces the 31st class of the Legendary Lions Society, honoring seven exceptional leaders whose contributions have left a significant impact on the Greater Cincinnati region and beyond. These individuals have demonstrated extraordinary dedication, commitment, and service to others. 

“This year’s honorees are truly remarkable,” said Christie Kuhns, President and CEO of the Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio. “They embody the very best of our community, hailing from diverse industries and backgrounds. Each of them has made valuable contributions to our region, and in some cases the world, in unique and impactful ways. We are thrilled to recognize these incredible individuals.” 

The 2025 Honorees are Patricia A. Bready, Alva Jean Crawford, Dr. Alvin Crawford, Howard D. Elliott, Edna G. Keown, Jack Rouse and Steve Shifman. 

The Lions will be honored at the 31st Annual Glorifying the Lions Luncheon Ceremony on Wednesday April 9, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. at the Cintas Center. Tickets may be purchased by visiting www.ulgso.org/lions. 

In addition to the luncheon, WLWT Channel 5 will air the 2025 Glorifying the Lions broadcast on April 11 at 7:30 p.m. to further showcase and celebrate these outstanding individuals. The broadcast will also be available on the ULGSO YouTube channel. 

More about the 2025 Lions: (Full bios available at ulsgo.org/Lions) 

Patricia A. Bready spent 30 years with Cincinnati Bell culminating in the role of Director of Southwest Ohio Government Relations. Upon retiring, Bready founded Quest Management Consulting, bringing her expertise to corporate, government and nonprofit organizations. Bready is widely recognized for her ability to support, coach, and inspire others. She generously donates her time and talents as a board member of several organizations, but she is best known for her current role as the facilitator of AALDP, the Urban League’s Premier Leadership Development program where she has coached and inspired hundreds of leaders to reach their full potential. 

Dr. Alvin H. Crawford is a world-renowned Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon. His academic research approach to the study and treatment of complex pediatric bone conditions of the spine is considered state of the art and taught across the United States and globally. Under Dr. Crawford’s leadership Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center established its Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery where Crawford served as director for 29 years. In 2019, Crawford established Black Men in Medicine Cincinnati to mentor undergraduate medical students of color. In 2023 he released his autobiography, Bone Doctor’s Concerto: Music, Surgery, and the Pieces in Between. 

Alva Jean Crawford spent 32 years as a dedicated and impactful mathematics teacher and school counselor. Her passion for music and the arts led her to volunteer for numerous arts organizations. She was the co-chair of the Cincinnati Opera’s 80th Anniversary Gala and has served on the boards of the Cincinnati Opera, Cincinnati Ballet, Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park and the Music Hall Revitalization Company. In addition to the arts, Mrs. Crawford has generously volunteered with several organizations as a mentor and tutor and participated on several community boards.     

Howard D. Elliott is a well-respected corporate leader known for his expertise and passion for Supplier Diversity. Elliott enjoyed a 32-year career with Procter & Gamble. Under his leadership, Procter & Gamble spent over $4 billion with minority owned businesses. He has continued to be a champion of women and minority businesses, establishing the Elliott Management Group specializing in supplier diversity and economic inclusion consulting. This led to the creation of the South Central Ohio Healthcare Supplier Diversity Consortium which generated an increased spend of $100 million per year with minority and women owned suppliers. He currently leads WEB Ventures, a management consulting company focused on economic inclusion on large, commercial development projects. 

Edna G. Keown is known as Cincinnati’s full-time community advocate extraordinaire. At the conclusion of a successful career in human resources and consulting, Mrs. Keown dedicated herself to excellence in volunteering. She is currently spending her time and talents with the following organizations: Cincinnati Parks Foundation Board, Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra Board, Montgomery Community Church and the Woman’s City Club. She is a member of the Cincinnati Chapter of The Links, Inc., and has volunteered in various capacities with the Greater Cincinnati Foundation including as a member of the Black Giving Circle. She is a former board member of the Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio. 

Jack Rouse has spent his life making sure everyone has a great time. As a professor at the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music (CCM), Mr. Rouse established the nation’s first musical theatre program. Transitioning from academia, Rouse joined Taft Broadcasting Company during the early development of Kings Island which eventually led to the Kings Entertainment Company. He moved on to create Jack Rouse Associates (JRA) which became one of the most recognized global names in experiential design. A lifelong advocate for creating comprehensive audience experiences, Rouse continues to apply his professional expertise and passion to foster a more vibrant, inclusive, and relevant arts and culture community in Cincinnati. 

Steve Shifman currently serves as Executive Chair of Michelman, a large privately held global technology and manufacturing company headquartered in Cincinnati. Mr. Shifman has been an active member of many organizations including the United Way of Greater Cincinnati where he served as Chairman of the Board, Board Chair for Teach for America in Southwest Ohio, co-chair of the Cincinnati Regional Business Committee and board member of the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati. Currently Shifman is a member of the Board of the Minority Business Accelerator and a Trustee of the Washington Institute. He also serves on various for-profit boards and as a coach and mentor for CEOs of purpose-driven, generational enterprises. 

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The Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio (ULGSO) hosted its high energy Annual Diamond Gala in early September at the Sharonville Convention Center. 

The evening kicked off with a high-energy performance featuring Soul, Motown, R&B and Funk from Cincinnati’s own, Soul Pocket featuring Dee Marie, Yolanda Colvin, and Ingrid Rachel. Guests enjoyed dinner and dessert by the bite provided by ten of Cincinnati’s favorite Black restauranters and caterers. 

This year’s headliner was the legendary, genre-defining producer, DJ and hip-hop artist, Mannie Fresh. Starting out as one of the best DJs in New Orleans, Mannie Fresh evolved into a multi-platinum, Grammy-nominated powerhouse. He has been pivotal in creating hits for acclaimed artists such as UGK, Trina, Gucci Mane, and The Notorious B.I.G. 

This party with a purpose was an opportunity to celebrate the life-changing work of the Urban League and to support its mission to end generational poverty through programs focused on financial empowerment, workforce development, entrepreneurship, leadership engagement and advocacy. 

“Our recently released, “State of Black Cincinnati” report clearly illustrated that we still have a long way to go to impact generational poverty in our community,” said Urban League President and CEO, Christie Kuhns. “The programs of the League are uniquely designed to disrupt the cycle of poverty by providing people with the training, mentoring, and support necessary to be successful both personally and professionally. The gala is an opportunity to celebrate and share the stories of those whose lives have been positively changed because of our programs and it’s also our biggest fundraiser of the year.” 

The League’s Gala made a triumphant return last year after postponement due to Covid in time to celebrate the organization’s 75th anniversary. 

The Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio is on a mission to end generational poverty through programs focused on financial empowerment, workforce development, entrepreneurship advancement, leadership engagement and advocacy. To learn more, visit www.ulgso.org.

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The Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio (ULGSO) is pleased to invite the community to its Annual Diamond Gala, Saturday Sept. 7, from 6:30 — 10:30 p.m. at the Sharonville Convention Center. 

The evening will kick off with a high-energy performance featuring Soul, Motown, R&B and Funk from Cincinnati’s own, Soul Pocket featuring Dee Marie, Yolanda Colvin, and Ingrid Rachel. Guests will enjoy dinner and dessert by the bite provided by 10 of Cincinnati’s favorite Black restauranters and caterers and an open bar all night. 

This year’s headliner is the legendary, genre-defining producer, DJ and hip-hop artist, Mannie Fresh. Starting out as one of the best DJs in New Orleans, Mannie Fresh evolved into a multiplatinum, Grammy-nominated powerhouse. He has been pivotal in creating hits for acclaimed artists such as UGK, Trina, Gucci Mane, and The Notorious B.I.G. 

This party with a purpose is an opportunity to celebrate the life-changing work of the Urban League and to support its mission to end generational poverty through programs focused on financial empowerment, workforce development, entrepreneurship, leadership engagement and advocacy. 

“Our recently released, “State of Black Cincinnati” report clearly illustrated that we still have a long way to go to impact generational poverty in our community,” said Urban League President and CEO, Christie Kuhns. “The programs of the League are uniquely designed to disrupt the cycle of poverty by providing people with the training, mentoring, and support necessary to be successful both personally and professionally. The gala is an opportunity to celebrate and share the stories of those whose lives have been positively changed because of our programs and it’s also our biggest fundraiser of the year. We hope everyone comes out to enjoy a fun evening and to generously donate to support this important work.” 

The League’s Gala made a triumphant return last year after postponement due to COVID in time to celebrate the organization’s 75th anniversary. The event was a sellout and widely heralded as the party of the year. 

Tickets can be purchased, and additional details found at www.ulgso.org/gala. For information on sponsorship opportunities contact Matt Burcham at MBurcham@ulgso.org 

The Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio is on a mission to end generational poverty through programs focused on financial empowerment, workforce development, entrepreneurship advancement, leadership engagement and advocacy. To learn more, visit www.ulgso.org. 

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The following statement has been released by the Center for Social Justice in Cincinnati condemning the murder of Sonya Massey:

On July 6, 2024, Sonya Massey, a 36-year-old Black woman from Springfield, Illinois, called the police to her home citing concerns about a potential intruder.

In her attempt to secure protection from authorities, Massey appears to comply with each of the officer’s verbal commands when she was met with an expletive ridden threat of being shot in the face. Seconds later, Deputy Sean Grayson fired three fatal shots including the promised shot to the head. In the critical moments following the shooting, Grayson failed to provide any medical care to Massey and even dismissed interest from his partner to do so. 

After two weeks of the footage not being released to Massey’s family, questions about the transparency and integrity of this investigation continue to rise.

In direct violation of the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office practices, Grayson did not activate his body-worn camera until after the shooting. It was only due to the presence of his partner’s activated body camera that the events of that day could be partially documented.

Far too often the intersectional violence towards Black women is dismissed and ignored in our public narrative of policing. 

The Center for Social Justice in Cincinnati emerged following the murder and death of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, we understand protecting Black women and girls should not be revolutionary; it must be the standard.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for national reform measures aimed at enhancing accountability, transparency and oversight of law enforcement. 

We affirm the demands of the National Urban League President & CEO Marc H. Morial and Springfield Urban League CEO Marcus Johnson for Congress to pass the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act, a critical step towards rebuilding trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve.

We further urge the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate Grayson’s conduct for potential federal Civil Rights violations and to determine if this shooting is indicative of a broader pattern of constitutional violations within the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office.

We cannot allow the senseless killing of community members by police to continue. The time to act is now, to honor the memory of Sonya Massey and countless others lost to state sanctioned violence. We will #SayHerName. 

The Holloman Center for Social Justice, established in 2020, is committed to promoting equitable and just policing practices across our region. Through policy advocacy, data collection and reporting, and community education and organizing, to advance racial equity in our region. Our goal is to ensure that all police departments operate with transparency, accountability and respect for human rights. 

Editor’s Note: The views expressed in this commentary piece do not necessarily the express the opinions of The Cincinnati Herald.

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On May 29, officers with the Colerain Township Police Department were involved in an incident at the Colerain Marketplace Kroger store located at 3636 Springdale Road. According to Police Chief Edwin Cordie, officers arrived at the Colerain Kroger just before 4 p.m. to investigate an alleged suspect at the store. The incident resulted in one suspect and one bystander being shot and subsequently hospitalized. 

As an organization dedicated to working with communities and police departments in Hamilton County and across the region to accelerate reforms in local jurisdictions, the Holloman Center for Social Justice’s mission is to eliminate racial profiling, reduce uses of force, ensure police accountability, and to establish community oversight of departments and reforms. 

“However, since its inception, we have sought to collaborate with the Colerain Township Police Department on these crucial issues. However, our repeated requests for cooperation, data information, and responses to prior critical incidents have gone unanswered. This lack of engagement starkly contrasts with the active participation and cooperation we have received from neighboring jurisdictions,” said Fanon A. Rucker, Esq., Executive Advisor for the Holloman Center for Social Justice.

Rucker continued, “In light of the recent shooting, the Holloman Center for Social Justice urgently calls for full transparency from the Colerain Township Police Department and the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation. We strongly urge the immediate release of all footage, emergency calls and all relevant materials related to the incident. Transparency is essential to maintaining public confidence in the department’s ability to conduct an open and fair investigation. 

“As the regional catalyst for police reform, we serve as the liaison between the community and police departments. Ensuring timely fulfillment of these requests is crucial for upholding public trust and demonstrating a commitment to accountability and justice. We stand ready to assist Colerain Township in adopting best practices and fostering a collaborative relationship that prioritizes the safety and rights of all community members. 

“Without question, police have an incredibly dangerous and often times thankless job,”  “Community members want to live in peace. Free from the fear of criminal behavior and unreasonable government suppression. When communities and law enforcement work together, it builds trust on both sides. That trust increases the community’s willingness to assist in resolving cases and can lead to a reduction in crime.” 

It is our hope that this incident will serve as a turning point for meaningful dialogue and partnership in Colerain Township.” 

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The Urban League of Gre ater Southwestern Ohio’s 30th class of the Legendary Lions Society included six passionate and distinguished leaders who have made a lasting impact on the Greater Cincinnati community through their selfless dedication, commitment, and service to others, were celebrated at the League’s annual luncheon April 10 at the Cintas Center.

The 2024 Lions honorees are:

Karen Bankston, PhD, MSN, RN, Professor Emerita, UC College of Nursing

Calvin D. Buford, Of Counsel, Dinsmore & Shohl LLP

Michael Fisher, Former President & CEO, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center

Delores Hargrove-Young, Vice Chairwoman, d.e. Foxx & Associates, Inc.

J. Phillip Holloman, Co-Founder, The Holloman Center for Social Justice

John E. Pepper, Former Chairman & CEO, The Procter & Gamble Company

“This year’s Lions are phenomenal,” said Christie Kuhns, president/CEO of the Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio. “They represent the absolute best of our community from various industries and backgrounds, and they have all contributed to our region – and in some cases the world – in different and impactful ways. We are so excited to celebrate these amazing individuals.” 

More about the 2024 Lions: 

Karen Bankston, Ph.D., MSN, RN, is a professor emerita, a leadership consultant, a retired hospital executive, and former associate dean for Clinical Practice, Partnership, and Community Engagement of the College of Nursing at the University of Cincinnati. A fellow in the American College of Health Care Executives, she is the president and CEO of KDB and Associates Consulting Service.

Calvin D. Buford recently retired as a partner in the law firm Dinsmore & Shohl LLP, where he remains of counsel with the firm. His legal practice encompassed general corporate and business law, particularly on transactional matters. He represented clients ranging from start-ups and small entrepreneurs to Fortune 500 companies, overseeing numerous mergers, acquisitions, and dispositions of businesses, debt and equity financing, joint ventures, and other transactions. A native of Cincinnati and graduate of Harvard Law School, he became the first African American to be elected partner of a major Cincinnati law firm.

Michael Fisher is a transformational community and corporate leader who has helmed several of the region’s most important institutions including Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center and the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber. As president and CEO of Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, he expanded and grew the medical center culminating in a $600 million critical care building in 2021. The Michael Fisher Child Health Equity Center was established in 2022. Before joining Children’s, he served as president/CEO of the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber where he led the launch of two enduring economic growth initiatives: The Minority Business Accelerator (MBA) and Cincy Tech.

Delores Hargrove-Young is vice chairwoman of d.e. Foxx & Associates Inc. where she serves as a key strategic leader, ambassador, and adviser. Before stepping into this role, she was president/COO of XLC Services, a single-source provider of manufacturing services, warehouse management solutions, and distribution services. She was one of XLC’s principal founders, responsible for business operations in 14 states. 

J. Phillip Holloman is a distinguished and accomplished business leader known for his focused and success-oriented determination. He spent 22 years with the Cintas Corporation in a variety of progressive roles culminating in his position as president/COO. He and his wife, Gail, established the Seven Principles Foundation to provide grants to nonprofits specializing in childhood development, adult job readiness training, and social equity. In 2020, the Hollomans gave a transformational gift of $1 million to establish the Holloman Center for Social Justice at the Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio to engage in policy advocacy work and community education to advance racial equity in the region. 

John E. Pepper spent a 40-year career in various positions at Procter & Gamble, including CEO/chairman from 1995 to 1999 and chairman of the board from 2000 to 2002. He served as director emeritus of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center board and was CEO from January 2006 – May 2007. He served as board chairman of the Walt Disney Company from January 2007 through March 2012. He also served as Yale University’s finance and administration vice president. He is a former member of the Cincinnati Preschool Program board of trustees, a founding supporter of Every Child Succeeds, and a co-founder of the Cincinnati Youth Collaborative. 

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