How would you like to have lunch inside an institution with a proud legacy, joined by two prominent entrepreneurs and the most powerful man in Indiana?
Guests were able to do exactly that when The Madame Walker Theatre Center presented its Corporate Awards Luncheon April 11 at the center.
Community leaders and professionals from around the state came to the Walker to see awards given to influential business executives and civic leaders, Robert Reed and John Thompson, and hear the keynote speaker, Gov. Mike Pence.
For eight years, the Corporate Awards Luncheon has provided an opportunity to honor outstanding entrepreneurs, provide guests with a chance to network, and raise funds for the center, which has entered its 86th year and is a monument to the achievements of local African-Americans.
“It is important for professionals to meet individuals who are about the community and to know who some of our leaders are, and this event is a way to do that,” said Malina Jeffers, Director of Marketing and Community Engagement for the Walker Theatre Center. “It is also a great opportunity to find out what is going on at the center, its accomplishments and some of our future plans.”
Over the years, the Corporate Awards Luncheon has honored Indiana-based entrepreneurs and professionals who have made a discernible difference in both the African-American and Indianapolis community.
Organizers say that Gov. Pence’s appearance is welcome, not only because he is a lifelong Hoosier and the governor, but also because he has legal, small business and policy experience that is helpful and relatable to the professional audience in attendance.
Jeffers noted that the Walker board agreed that Reed and Thompson were perfect choices this year.
“Both have had a significant impact on the community and are longtime supporters of the Walker and our legacy,” Jeffers said.
Reed has developed a successful career as a leader in information technology. He is the founder and CEO of RCR Technology Corp., an innovative information technology consulting firm in Indianapolis.
Reed has grown RCR Technology to become a leader among data management solutions and technology-driven middle market companies. Now in its 14th year, RCR Technology continues to be listed as one of the top five minority businesses in Indianapolis.
Reed said he is honored to receive the award from the Walker.
“I don’t go looking for accolades, but I do appreciate them when they come,” Reed said.
He added that he feels very privileged to get an award from the Walker.
“It’s an organization that I love and respect and have supported over the years,” said Reed.
Thompson is chairman and chief executive officer of several companies, including, Thompson Distribution Co., a distributor of mechanical supplies and equipment; First Electric Supply Co. LLC, a distributor of electrical supplies and equipment; CMID, an architectural and engineering design firm; and BC-SESCO, a fabricator and installer of millwork.
Thompson is also chairman of the Indy Chamber, co-chairman of the Eskenazi Health Foundation Capital Campaign to build a new Wishard Hospital and past chairman of Indiana Black Expo and Indianapolis Museum of Art.
“I’m very pleased to be recognized and included, given all of the very strong awardees that have come before me,” Thompson said. “It is an honor to be included in that group.”
Thompson also mentioned that because the award comes from the center it is more of an honor, because it was built on the shoulders of Madame C.J. Walker, who overcame significant challenges on her journey to success during an era when the rights of Blacks and women were significantly limited.
“This award becomes even more special when you think about what she accomplished,” Thompson said.
