Black History Month
Each February during the Black History Month Celebration, City Council highlights, celebrates and honors the work of African Americans in the Columbus community.
Named after James Preston Poindexter, the first Black Columbus City Councilmember, the Poindexter Awards are given during the Black History Month Celebration.
The 2025 National Black History Month theme is, "African Americans and Labor." These awards recognize the accomplishments and achievements of individuals in our community who have made significant contributions to Columbus in this field.
2025 Poindexter Award Winners
Curtis J. Moody
Curtis J. Moody (1950-2024) was the founder of Moody Nolan, the largest minority-owned architecture firm in the U.S. A Columbus native, his work includes libraries, sports arenas, hospitals, and projects at The Ohio State University and the Barack Obama Presidential Center in Chicago. A mentor and advocate for Black architects, Curt’s influence extended beyond design, inspiring future generations. His legacy lives on through his work, those he mentored, and his son Jonathan Moody, who now leads Moody Nolan.
Brian Brooks
Brian Brooks has been President and Co-Owner of E.E. Ward Moving & Storage since 2001, leading one of the oldest African American-owned businesses in the U.S. Under his leadership, the company has earned numerous industry awards and expanded its reach. Beyond business, Brian founded Laps for Lunches in 2015 to combat food insecurity, later evolving into Laps for Learning, which promotes water safety for children. He also serves on the boards of the North American Agents Mover Association and the Better Business Bureau of Central Ohio.
Lois Carson
Lois Carson is the State President of OAPSE and has been a Columbus City Schools secretary for 37 years. She previously led the Columbus School Employees Association (CSEA) and has served on the union’s statewide executive board since 2013. Lois is also an Ohio AFL-CIO vice president and an active member of CBTU, APRI, CLUW, and the NAACP. A Columbus City Schools graduate, she studied Secretarial Studies and Early Childhood Education. She enjoys time with her four adult children, five grandchildren, and great-granddaughter.
Louella Day-Jeter
Louella Day-Jeter has led the Columbus Chapter of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU) since 2015, advocating for workers' rights and economic justice. She began her career at The Ohio State University, joining AFSCME, and later spent 42 years at the State Highway Patrol, supporting unionization efforts. Under her leadership, CBTU continues to advance Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s vision, focusing on labor rights, economic development, and job training for Black and minority youth.
Rhonda Johnson
Rhonda Johnson is a lifelong advocate for educators and students, with a 42-year career in education, including 36 years in Columbus City Schools and five years as Director of Education for the City of Columbus. She currently serves on the State Board of Education. A former Columbus Education Association President, she championed teachers' rights, learning conditions, and labor-management collaboration, leading efforts to improve public education. She has served on boards including the United Way of Central Ohio and the Ohio Consumers’ Council.