J 409: Honoring Dr. Bob Lee, DCS, upon the occasion of his designation for special recognition at the Young, Gifted, and Black Entrepreneurial Awards 20th Anniversary Gala on February 26, 2025

 Senate Resolution No. 409 BY: Senator PARKER HONORING Dr. Bob Lee, DCS, upon the occasion of his designation for special recognition at the Young, Gifted, and Black Entrepreneurial Awards 20th Anniversary Gala on February 26, 2025 WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to honor those enduring individuals and organizations which devote their purposeful energies to improving the quality and dignity of life of those they serve, to preserving their heritage, and to fostering pride among them; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Dr. Bob Lee upon the occasion of his designation for special recognition at the Young, Gifted, and Black Entrepreneurial Awards 20th Anniversary Gala on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at Terrace on the Park, Queens, New York; and WHEREAS, The Young, Gifted, & Black (YGB) Entrepreneurial Awards were established in 2006 by Carl Gray as a platform to spotlight and celebrate everyday individuals who serve as positive role models, inspiring their peers through their accomplishments, perseverance, and contributions; and WHEREAS, Carl Gray's vision for the YGB Entrepreneurial Awards has remained steadfast in ensuring recognition is given to those whose contributions, though not always highlighted in mainstream media, have a profound and lasting influence within their fields and society; and WHEREAS, Dr. Bob Lee is the President, Founder & CEO of the Make the Grade Foundation, a not-for-profit organization that provides mentoring and aid to school children; Make the Grade Foundation is an organization that facilitates and encourages academic achievement by implementing programs through the collaboration between parent, teacher, student, clergy, and community by connecting and providing resources for today's youth; and WHEREAS, Dr. Bob Lee earned his bachelor's and master's degrees in Communications from the New York Institute of Technology; he later earned his Doctorate in Community Ministries (D.Cm.) at the New Seminary for Interfaith Studies; and WHEREAS, Music played a significant role in Dr. Bob Lee's development in the early 1970s Queensbridge neighborhood of New York City; he started DJing at local parties, festivals, and charity events under the mentorship of Mr. Hank Carter; this blend of music and community service shaped Bob's career and passion; and WHEREAS, By 1980, Dr. Bob Lee's career gained momentum when he interned at WBLS, eventually becoming a key part of the "Quiet Storm" and "Morning Show"; he created the "On Time" program, promoting education and positive community efforts; over the years, his career flourished, and he hosted his own radio show, "The Bob Lee Show," and the live TV program "Open" on BronxNet; he also managed community affairs for WBLS; and WHEREAS, Dr. Bob Lee is the President & CEO of Bob Lee Enterprises, overseeing his diverse career in motivational speaking, coaching, DJing, performing in bands, and consulting for grassroots promotions; his blend of entertainment and community service has established him as a respected figure in Hip-Hop, R&B, and Soul; and WHEREAS, Dr. Bob Lee maintains a busy schedule of radio, TV, speaking engagements, and other appearances, while also mentoring college students interested in radio careers; additionally, he has authored several books, including "People to Know in Black History" and "7 Ways to Make the Grade," with a focus on success, community, and personal growth; and WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that those individuals and organizations which give positive definition to the profile and disposition of the communities of the State of New York, do so profoundly strengthen our shared commitment to the exercise of freedom; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to honor Dr. Bob Lee upon the occasion of his designation for special recognition at the Young, Gifted, and Black Entrepreneurial Awards 20th Anniversary Gala on Wednesday, February 26, 2025; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Dr. Bob Lee.