The Urban League of Greater Dallas and North Central Texas has announced Dr. Charles Mitchell and Mr. John Beckwith Sr., outstanding community leaders, will receive their 2013 Legacy Award.
This unique award allows the League to recognize and honor two individuals who have given so much to their professions and their community. This year’s Legacy honorees will pass their torch to Dr. Winifred Parnell and Mr. John Beckwith Jr. and challenge them to continue to excel in their professions and give back to the community.
The honorees will receive tributes at the Urban League Annual Meeting Luncheon on Friday, Feb. 22 at 11:45 a.m. at the Hilton Anatole Hotel, Khmer Pavilion Ballroom, 2201 Stemmons Freeway, Dallas, TX 75207.
Before retiring in 2010, Dr. Mitchell was an Orthopedic Surgeon here in Dallas for 37 years. He is a graduate of Howard University Medical School and did his Surgery Internship, Residency and Orthopedic Residency at Mt. Sinai Hospital in New York. Some of his academic and professional appointments include Chief Orthopedic Surgeon at Methodist Hospital; former member of the Board of Regents at University of North Texas, President of Southeast Methodist Medical Staff and Chairman of Department of Surgery at Mesquite Community Hospital. He is currently an Orthopedic Consultant.
Many who know Mr. Beckwith say he was born with the desire and dream of owning a funeral home and helping others. He was so determined, starting at age 14, he would walk or hitchhike to local funeral homes in rural Louisiana to learn the business. Today, he owns Golden Gate Funeral Home in Dallas, Lancaster, Fort Worth and Tallulah, LA. He works closely with the clergy as a mentor throughout the Metroplex and donates his time and resources to his community.
“We are pleased to recognize these community leaders for their outstanding achievements in their respective careers and for the many meaningful contributions they have made to our community,” said Dr. Beverly Mitchell-Brooks, President and CEO of the Urban League of Greater Dallas.
A highlight of the luncheon will be Dr. Mitchell-Brooks’ annual Report to the Community which details the outcomes and impact of the investments of League supporters who contribute their time and funding. New members of the Board of Trustees will also be recognized.
