MANSFIELD — The NAACP hosted its 39th annual Life Membership Banquet on Saturday, May 16, at the Mary McLeod Bethune Community Center.
The theme for the evening was “We See You.” Winston Greene served as master of ceremonies and entertained the crowd throughout the event.
The organization welcomed Sherrod Brown as the keynote speaker. Brown, who is running for the U.S. Senate this fall, spoke about successfully sponsoring and helping pass the Social Security Fairness Act.
This bipartisan legislation, which provides full retirement benefits for public employees, was signed into law in December 2025 shortly before he left office from his previous stint in Washington.
The former senator described the passing of this bill as one of the highlights of his long career in public service. Brown also pledged that, if returned to office, he would continue working to support legislation benefiting middle-class families.
Pulitzer Prize-winning author Connie Schultz attended the banquet in support of her husband’s reelection campaign.
Another highlight of the evening was the presentation of two awards. The Dennis A. Baker Second Chance Award was presented to Lyneal Wainwright, who spoke about the support and community activism of her late mentor.
The Betty A. Palmer Harris Life Membership Award was presented to Richard Adkinson, a dedicated Life Member and former treasurer of the Mansfield NAACP.
Carla Adkinson-Johnson accepted the award on behalf of her father and spoke about his commitment to social justice and his pride in being a Life Member of the organization.
Tom Roberts, president of the Ohio NAACP, and Andre Washington, second vice president of the organization, also addressed the capacity crowd.
Both encouraged attendees to become active in their communities, make their voices heard, and ensure they are registered to vote.
The evening concluded with remarks from Artise Anderson, president of Mansfield NAACP #3190. Anderson emphasized the importance of encouraging young people to join the organization and become actively involved in the community.