The Jacobs-Abbey Global Institute for Leadership Studies (JAGILS) recently achieved a notable milestone by commemorating its 5th anniversary with a spectacular gala held at the Hilton Alexandria Mark Center. This momentous occasion brought together esteemed leaders, educators, and supporters to celebrate JAGILS’ outstanding achievements and its mission of empowering leaders who drive positive change in the world.
Since its inception in 2019, JAGILS has firmly established itself as a leading institution for aspiring leaders from diverse backgrounds. The institute’s unwavering commitment to nurturing leadership skills and empowering individuals to make a positive difference has earned widespread recognition and respect within the leadership development community.
The 5th-anniversary celebrations served as a powerful demonstration of JAGILS’ unwavering dedication to leadership excellence. The event featured a captivating array of activities designed to inspire, educate, and connect leaders from various fields. Notable highlights included an engaging registration process, a lively cocktail reception, captivating red carpet photos, and ample opportunities for networking and collaboration.
Victor Gotevbe and Pamela Johnson, Publisher/Editor-in-Chief and Vice President of Diplomatic Watch Magazine, respectively, served as the event’s esteemed hosts, gracing the occasion with their warm greetings.
Mayor Cashenna A. Cross of the City of Glenarden further enthralled the audience with her stunning rendition of the United States national anthem. This was followed by a heartfelt recognition of veterans, a welcoming address by Professor Jared A. Onyari, Chairman, JAGILS board of trustees and a captivating cultural dance performance by the Biney Traditional Dancers. Dr. Samuel Jacobs-Abbey, Executive Director of JAGILS, delivered a gracious welcome message, setting the stage for an evening filled with dinner, musical interludes, fundraising, and exciting auctions.
The event also featured the presentation of prestigious awards in five categories: Dr. Nina L. Meyerhof Leadership Awards, Timothy Bowles African Human Rights Awards, Bishop John K. Yambasu Global Peace Award, the US Presidential Lifetime Award for Volunteer Service and JAGILS Lifetime Achievement Award. Notable recipients included Rodica Silvia Pop, a Museum Expert and Educator from Romania who received the Bishop John K. Yambasu award while Isabelle Vladoiu, received the Jagils Lifetime Achievement Award.
In her inspiring speech, as the Keynote Speaker, Isabelle Vladoiu of US Institute of Diplomacy and Human Rights eloquently emphasized the importance of making change a reality, even if not in a position of high visibility or direct leadership. She highlighted the power of individual action and the cumulative impact that seemingly small contributions can have on the world.
Rodica Silvia Pop speaking after receiving the Bishop John K. Yambasu award
Rodica Silva Pop delivers gift from Romania to Dr. Jacobs-Abbey.
The evening concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Jacobs-Abbey, who expressed his gratitude to all those who had contributed to the success of the event and JAGILS’ remarkable journey.
The evening culminated in lively dancing and networking opportunities, providing participants with the chance to connect with like-minded individuals and build valuable relationships in the world of leadership.
As the institute looks ahead to its 6th Annual Edition and many more years to come, it remains steadfast in its mission to cultivate leadership skills, promote ethical leadership practices, and continue making a positive impact on a global scale.
