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.