By Charles Warren, Contributing Writer
April 13, 2025 – In a powerful celebration of excellence, purpose, and brotherhood, The Links, Incorporated San Diego Chapter hosted its 39th Annual An Affair of Honor luncheon Sunday afternoon at 1 p.m. at the Westin San Diego Gaslamp Quarter.
Held under the theme “Resilience, Impact, and Legacy”, the event recognized 16 outstanding male high school seniors for completing a transformative year-long journey through the Chapter’s signature Achievers Program.
Under the guidance and direction of Chapter President Angela Hilliard and Co-Chairs Link Sophia Sharp-Donaldson and Deanna Shelton, the San Diego Chapter delivered a phenomenal event with the support of a strong and dedicated team.
The 2025 honorees included: Ayden Alexander, Tyler Alexander, Rahfeal Alomar Jr., Kaysean Banks, Davon Crenshaw, Taylen Hall, Theon Kambon, DeAndre Bradford, Lamar McKenzie Jr., Quincy McKinney, Max Miller, Aaron Morgan, Jeremy Oakley, Dillon Tar, Johnnie Welborne III, and Ryder White.
The Achievers Program, created to prepare young men for higher education and leadership, exposes participants to a range of cultural, educational, and social development activities. From college tours to civic engagement projects, the program is both rigorous and deeply personal.
In front of an audience filled with friends, family members, and community dignitaries, the proud moms and dads of these exceptional young men had the honor of placing medallions around their sons’ necks. The moment was symbolic and emotional, representing not just achievement, but legacy.
Following the medallion ceremony, the young men stood and recited the Achiever Oath, an affirmation of their commitment to excellence, integrity, and service. With that, they were formally welcomed into a distinguished lineage of over 834 Achiever Alumni.
In recognition of their achievements, each young man also received a scholarship to support their continued educational journey.
“The theme of this year, ‘Resilience, Impact, and Legacy’, truly reflects what we see in these young men,” said a representative of The Links, Incorporated. “They have embraced every challenge, grown into leaders, and now join a powerful legacy of excellence that spans nearly four decades.”
Throughout the year, Achievers participated in networking events, mentorship sessions, and academic enrichment activities—all designed to prepare them for success in college and beyond.
For many, the program was life-changing.
“I’ve grown so much this past year,” said one of the Achievers. “Being part of a brotherhood like this, and learning from people who truly care about our future means everything.”
The San Diego Chapter of The Links, Incorporated is part of a national, volunteer-based organization of professional women of African descent committed to enriching, sustaining, and ensuring the culture and economic survival of African Americans and other persons of African ancestry.
As the 2025 Achievers prepare to embark on new chapters in their lives, they do so with the tools, confidence, and community needed to lead.
As these young men step into the future with resilience, ready to make their impact and build their legacy—who will they inspire next?
