(West Chester, PA – October 21, 2024): The Chester County Community Foundation proudly announces Emeritus Professor Dr. C. James Trotman and the late Dr. Mildred C. Joyner as the 2024 recipients of the Emeritus Hon. Dr. Clifford E. DeBaptiste Visionary Award. Established in 2022, this distinguished award is presented to community leaders who empower others to be the change they wish to see in the world. These honorees are celebrated for being bridge builders, door openers, and visionaries in their respective fields.
Dr. C. James Trotman, the founding director of West Chester University’s Frederick Douglass Institute, has been a pivotal figure in advancing multicultural studies and promoting the intellectual legacy of Frederick Douglass. Established in 1995, the Frederick Douglass Institute serves as a beacon of knowledge and a catalyst for change. Under Dr. Trotman’s leadership, Frederick Douglass Institutes now exist across the Pennsylvania State Universities System, collectively known as the FDI Collaborative. Dr. Trotman has authored two books on Frederick Douglass and numerous articles, receiving accolades such as the Fullbright Award and the Presidential Medallion for his lifelong dedication to education and social justice.
Dr. Mildred C. Joyner, whose career began with Chester County Children and Youth Services, made an indelible mark as a professor and department chair of Social Work at West Chester University. She championed the cause of social workers both nationally and internationally, serving as a mentor to thousands of students and advocating for community well-being through her leadership on numerous boards, including the Chester County Food Bank and DNB Bank. Although Dr. Joyner passed away in 2023, her legacy continues to inspire those she mentored and the countless organizations she impacted.
Both Dr. Trotman and Dr. Joyner played instrumental roles in expanding the reach and impact of West Chester University’s Frederick Douglass Institute. In 2023, they worked together to raise funds and secure donors for a statue commemorating Frederick Douglass’s frequent visits to the university, culminating in the statue’s unveiling on October
1, 2023. Their shared vision—anchored by a deep commitment to equity, justice, and community empowerment—continues to resonate.
Dr. Clifford E. DeBaptiste, former mayor of West Chester and eponym of the Visionary Award, stated, “Dr. Trotman and Dr. Joyner have dedicated their lives to uplifting others and creating pathways for future generations. It is my great honor to recognize them both as true visionaries, whose work will inspire change for years to come.”
The 30th Annual Meeting is free and open to the public. The program begins at 5pm with 1-hour receptions immediately before and after at 4pm and 6pm. RSVP to (610) 696-8211 or events@chescocf.org to reserve a seat. For more information, visit https://chescocf.org/events/30th-annual-meeting/.
Pictured from left to right: Emeritus Professor Dr. C. James Trotman (left) Dr. Mildred C. Joyner (right)
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About the Chester County Community Foundation
Headquartered in West Chester’s Lincoln Building, the Chester County Community Foundation connects people who care with causes that matter so their legacy philanthropy makes a difference now and forever. The Community Foundation holds nearly $100 million in trust and annually awards $6+ million in grants and scholarships. To learn more about the Community Foundation, visit www.chescocf.org.
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