CW50 Black History Month Snapshots

CW50's Black History Month Snapshots highlight people who have had a positive impact in African American past and present.

Aaron Dworkin: Sphinx Organization Founder

When speaking with our producers about his history, Dworkin said, "I'm a violinist. I started when I was five years old." Dworkin went on to explain that a common misconception saying, "Kids would often say, "You're not really black ... because 'black' wouldn't be playing the violin." Describing The Sphinx Organization, Dworkin said, "[We're] focused on diversity in classical music." He explained the importance of his work by stating, "Blacks and Latinos combined represent less than 4% of America's orchestras." Aaron concluded by declaring, "Without music I really can't imagine where I would be."

Faye Nelson: Detroit Riverfront Conservancy

Committed to the ongoing resurgence of Detroit, Faye Nelson joined the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy as President & CEO. A lifelong Detroiter, Nelson is putting her management and strategic skills to work as she leads the transformation of Detroit's Riverfront. Describing the project, Nelson explained, "We are in the midst of completing a public space on the Detroit riverfront". Regarding her personal tie to Detroit she continued declaring, "This is my hometown. As a Detroiter I've been waiting to see this happen for a very long time". Among many positive aspects, Nelson added, "People can walk, bike, jog, rollerblade on the riverfront and it will provide so many positive benefits for our community."

Sam Logan: Michigan Chronicle Publisher

According to Eastside Republican Club, Logan is a former U.S. Army paratrooper, a graduate of the University of Detroit, a member of the CMU scholarship fund, lifetime member of the NAACP, and a member of the Detroit Urban League. While talking with our producers about the history and mission of the Michigan Chronicle, Logan remarked, "When I joined the paper, it was more of a passion really. We have survived for more than 75 years because we don't follow, we lead." On how he gauges success, Logan explained, "I don't worry about whether you agree or disagree or whether you like it. All I want to know is when I put something in writing, are you thinking? And if you're thinking, then I've accomplished my objective."

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