By: Brian Stevenson

In February, I had the honor of participating in the 4th Annual “Know Your Black History Tour,” held at the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn.  Legendary Detroit Piston Rick Mahorn joined Rock Financial, Fathead, IBM and the Detroit Pistons-Palace Foundation to make this celebration unforgettable.  The event focused on three Detroit-area schools; Henry Ford Academy, Kettering High School and Ferguson Academy selecting their two best students to compete to win scholarships courtesy of Rock Financial and the Pistons-Palace Foundation. 

The talented students performed a three-minute interpretation of the importance of knowing black history in the art form of their choice.  Spoken word, song, dance, acting and rap were all used creatively, as students competed before peers, faculty and guest judges Cheryl Ford (Detroit Shock), Rhonda Walker (WDIV Channel 4), Rochelle Riley (Detroit Free Press) and Dr. Darrius (WJLB Radio) among other prestigious guest.  These special guests shared inspiring stories of their own personal challenges and the importance of knowing their history and using that knowledge to achieve success.  In addition to the program, all students and staff were treated to a tour of the Black History exhibits at the Henry Ford Museum, including the bus on which Rosa Parks made history. 

I was honored to share the stage with Rock Financial President and Chief Operating Officer Patrick McInnis (little did I know he would soon be joining Fathead as CEO) to emphasize the importance of having a dream, a competitive spirit and the drive to achieve them.  Rick Mahorn spoke of his own experience growing up and dealing with challenges by learning to respect himself and others.  He encouraged the students to not buy into stereotypes and to embrace their rich history.

The finalists were awarded six scholarships ranging from $500 to $5,000, plus prizes such as a Pistons Fathead wall graphic and four tickets to a Pistons game at the Palace where they would be honored at half time.  All three schools were winners as well, receiving five new laptops each, courtesy of IBM.

As I reflect on that day, the chance to speak to the students during the “Know Your Black History Tour” was one of the most satisfying experiences I have had.  I want to thank Wendy Kemp and the Quicken Loans family for inviting me and giving me the opportunity to be a part of such a great event.