Assemblymember Alex Lee Celebrates Black History Month Honorees

On Saturday, February 24th, Assemblymember Alex Lee celebrated Black History Month by recognizing the contributions of Black leaders in Assembly District 24. The event was co-hosted by Milpitas Unified School District Board Trustee Chris Norwood, San Jose Evergreen Community College District Board President Tony Alexander as well as Fremont City Councilmembers Teresa Cox and Desrie Campbell.

Honorees of Black History Month: 

Sean Anglon

Sean Anglon is an Assistant Principal at Milpitas High School, and he has been an educator for 27 years. During his career, he has created various educational opportunities for students, such as the Pittsburg High School Bridge to College program that taught students about African American history and provided college tours including HBCUs, among other learning opportunities. He is a member of the Santa Clara County Alliance of Black Educators, and a member and Educational Chair of the 100 Black Men of Silicon Valley. He also is a founding member of the UCLA Black Alumni Association-Bay Area.

Bishop Oscar E. Dace, Sr. (Memorial Resolution)

Bishop Oscar E. Dace, Sr. was Senior Pastor at Bible Way Christian Center and served 35 years in ministry at the church. He was a visionary leader, preacher and teacher, whose spiritual message changed the lives of thousands. Under his leadership, Bible Way established numerous ministries to help meet the needs of the underprivileged, foster healthy family relationships, and address challenging issues facing today’s youth and young adults.

Jacqueline Van Dyke 

Jacqueline Van Dyke was born in Kentucky, raised on a farm and attended all-Black schools until her junior year in high school when the schools were finally integrated. She has been working for the Berryessa Union School District since 1984, proudly serving staff, teachers and students. Today, she is an Instructional Associate at Morrill Middle School where she has been recognized for her leadership and dedication to students.

Eta Rho Omega, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.  

Eta Rho Omega was the first graduate chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. in Santa Clara Valley, serving communities in the valley and beyond for 63 years. The chapter has been recognized by local and state governments as well as community organizations for its work, which includes providing scholarships to high school students, and sponsoring community-based programs geared toward cultural development, literacy, mathematics, science, and the arts. 

Dr. Harry Edwards

Dr. Harry Edwards is a renowned sociologist and civil rights activist who grew up in East St. Louis, Illinois. Over his career, Dr. Edwards has become the leading authority on the connections between race, sport and society. For instance, he was the organizer and faculty sponsor of the United Black Students for Action at San Jose State University, which became a forum for the discussion and debate supporting the Olympic Project for Human Rights movement. To this day, Dr. Edwards has persisted in his fight for diversity and equal opportunity in the sports establishment.  

Dr. Stanley B. Long

Dr. Stanley B. Long is a distinguished pastor and leadership coach with a rich history of community and international involvement. In 1985, Stan founded the South Bay Community Church (SBCC) in Fremont and served as its lead pastor for 25 years. Under his stewardship, the Church became a beacon of hope and spiritual guidance for many in the community. Following his retirement as lead pastor, Stan transitioned to the role of Pastor Emeritus and continues to serve the Church by providing leadership and mentorship. 

Regina Celestin Williams 

Regina Celestin Williams grew up in low-income housing in Richmond. She knows firsthand the importance of affordable, stable and safe housing for all — and now she’s working to ensure others have it. Regina has over 17 years of experience in affordable housing and community development. In 2021, she became the Executive Director of Silicon Valley at Home (SV@Home) where she oversees the nonprofit organization and supports its mission to address the housing needs of our community members. 

The Black History Month Celebration can be streamed here.