Patrick, a Marist Trustee, was recognized for both professional leadership and a commitment to transforming the world.

February 18, 2021—Award-winning journalist Alvin Patrick ’86 has a new honor to add to his list of personal and professional accolades: the Leadership in Journalism Award from the New York City-based nonprofit, One Hundred Black Men (OHBM). OHBM will present its award to Patrick as part of the organization’s annual gala. Additional honorees this year include New York State Attorney General Letitia James, former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, and journalist Joy Reid of MSNBC.

Founded in 1963, OHBM is committed to the intellectual development of youth and the economic empowerment of the African American community based on the following precepts: respect for family, spirituality, justice, and integrity. The organization focuses on educational initiatives, economic development, and raises awareness of the health issues impacting the Black community. Every year, OHBM recognizes individuals with an outstanding track record for serving their community.

In 2020, Patrick was named Executive Producer of CBS News’s Race and Culture Unit, a new division created to help shape the network’s news coverage. This promotion follows an illustrious career of more than 30 years working as a senior and executive producer for national broadcast, cable, and digital networks including MTV, HBO, ESPN, and ABC. Patrick has received six Emmy award nominations, six National Association of Black Journalists awards, a Gabriel Award, and a Freddie Award. He also shared two Edward R. Murrow Awards with his colleagues at CBS News.

Patrick’s selection for the Leadership in Journalism Award came as no surprise to Marist President Dennis J. Murray, who knew the alumnus as a student leader working to promote racial justice. “Even as an undergraduate, Alvin was an excellent journalist for our student newspaper and a leader in the movement to fight apartheid in South Africa,” said President Murray. “Today, in addition to his many professional accomplishments, he is also an influential voice on our Board of Trustees.” In 2015, Patrick was the keynote speaker at Marist’s graduate and adult commencement ceremony, and the College awarded him the Distinguished Alumni Medal.

Watch Alvin's acceptance speech in the video below.