Honoring Growth and Legacy: The Conclusion of the Metropolitan Peace Academy Management & Supervision Fellowship

(Left to right) Necole Muhammad, Danielle Thompson-Davis, Tiffany Lyles-Williams and Dr. Vanessa Perry DeReef celebrate Fellow Artemmio Williamson’s achievement.

The Metropolitan Peace Academy Management and Supervision Fellowship recently came to a close, marking the end of a six-month journey dedicated to strengthening leadership in community violence intervention. The fellowship culminated in a heartfelt dinner and celebration at the Metropolitan Peace Academy (MPA).

“Thank you for believing in us, investing in us, and inspiring us to believe in ourselves. You have ignited a fire within us to lead with courage, compassion, and conviction,” said appointed fellow Artemmio Williamson, Reentry Supervisor at the Institute for Nonviolence Chicago (INVC), as he opened the event.

“My experience was nothing short of amazing,” said Rodina Harris, Patient Advocate at UCMedicine and the second appointed MPA Management and Supervision Fellow, as she reflected on the program’s significance. “I learned that working together as a cohesive union makes this thing work. I also learned how important it is to show up as a leader. No matter how you’re feeling, you have to show up and do your best.”

A poignant moment of the evening was a tribute to the late Dr. Jerry Watson, a guiding force and mentor within the MPA.

Several fellows shared memories of Dr. Watson, illustrating the deep personal and professional influence he had on their journeys. MPA Chief Training Officer Dr. Vanessa Perry DeReef honored his enduring impact, sharing, “Dr. Jerry was always giving a word of wisdom. He was very wise… He was a mentor to everyone. He was a mentor’s mentor. He was a coach to many of our fellows today. He was such a large part of who we are here at the [Metropolitan Peace] Academy.”  

As the program concluded and fellows received their certificates, they gathered to share a meal, reconnect, and reinforce the bonds formed over the past six months. The evening was not just a celebration of completion but also a reaffirmation of their commitment to continued growth and community impact in Chicago.

Sam Castro, Director of Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships at INVC, delivered a powerful closing message, emphasizing the responsibility that comes with leadership. 

“When we hand this baton over? Y’all got it,” said Castro. “People count on y’all. Push yourself, be uncomfortable for the people. They’re counting on us. I take this win on us, on behalf of all the Black and Brown men and women. They say we couldn’t make it? Y’all made it.” 

Watch some MPA Management and Supervision Fellows’ testimonials here.