Nov 5, 2025 – William “Bill” Borden, Wendy Short Bartie, Ken McIntyre (not pictured) and Michael Brown receive mentor and influencer recognition and awards from Role Models for the Future foundation President James Smith. The event took place at Kean University, where Lamont Repollet is President of Kean University and also sits on the RMFTF Board.
Nov. 5, 2025 – Board Members of the Role Models For The Future foundation stand together as they celebrate reaching their foundation goal. Pictured are (L to R) Bryson Palmer, Courtney Billington, Dale Favors, Curtis Wilson, Charles Dickerson, James Smith, Dr. Michael Straker, Willie Williams, Dr. Charles Bowers, Curtis Johnson and Event Chair, Sean Hudson. Board members not pictured are Mark Tatum, Lamont Repollet, Sherle Boone, Ken Edwards).
Role Model For the Future Foundation: Advancing Legacy Through Leadership and Mentorship
On November 5th, Role Model For the Future marked its fifth annual fundraising gala, a significant milestone in the organization’s enduring journey of mentorship and impact. The event honored four distinguished individuals — Ken McIntyre, Michael Brown, Wendy Short Bartie, and William “Bill” Borden — each of whom shared profound reflections on the transformative power of mentorship and community influence. The evening, filled with fellowship and inspiration, culminated in a record-breaking achievement of over $300,000 raised, surpassing the program’s $1,000,000 fundraising goal. This success stands as a living tribute to the vision and leadership of the late Frank Flores, whose legacy continues to guide the board’s mission and collective purpose.
The program’s impact was further underscored through the participation of its STEM Scholars — Kevin Carolina, completing his final year of medical school; Matthew Beidleman, a Howard University sophomore and five-year RMM alumnus; and Carter Cargill, a high school sophomore currently engaged in the program. Their journeys embody the program’s mission to cultivate intellectual excellence, leadership, and service. Supported by the steadfast partnership of Mu Boule, Role Model For the Future now mentors over 50 students annually and awards more than 25 scholarships each year, expanding educational access and leadership development. The program also collaborates with mission-aligned institutions such as Kean University, DuBois Scholars, Accelerated Learning Academy, and Parentz Matters, extending its influence throughout the broader community. We extend sincere gratitude to Kean University President and RMFTF Board member Lamont Repollet, whose partnership through Kean University has enriched our mentoring programs, graduations, and annual gala.
This year also marked a pivotal step forward through the establishment of $35,000 endowments by Mark & Carolyn Mason, Bill & Terri Borden, Courtney & Lisa Billington, Paul & Lisa Jenkins, Charles & Judie Dickerson, and McManamon, Scotland & Bauman—an initiative guided by past leader Bakari Lee, whose leadership has generated over $120,000 in contributions. The board’s success is a testament to the enduring commitment of its members, including Courtney Billington, Michael Straker, Mark Tatum, Lamont Repollet, Dale Favors, Curtis Wilson, Curtis Johnson, Bryson Palmer, Sherle Boone, Willie Williams, Ken Edwards, and Sean Hudson (Event Chair), with emeritus distinction extended to Charles Bowers and Charles Dickerson. Together, these august men exemplify the program’s guiding principle: to build a legacy that transforms lives, strengthens communities, and empowers future generations to lead with confidence, intellect, and integrity.