Dr. Skinner-Phillip, associate professor at Howard University of College of Dentistry, received the National Service Award for Distinguished Service to the Jamaican People at Home. For more than 20 years Dr. Skinner-Phillip has been providing supportive services to students, always willing to go the extra mile to motivate students to strive for their highest goals. She believes that no one is too old to learn.

Mr. Williams won the Marcus Garvey Award for Distinguished Service to the Jamaican Community in the Washington Metropolitan Area. Mr. Williams has had a storied career. He served on President Clinton's Presidential Transition Team, Foreign Affairs Cluster, served as a member of the White House staff during the Jimmy Carter administration and has authored three books including the forthcoming "Boys Without Dads."

Ms. Asher received the President 's Award for Outstanding Contribution to JNA. Since joining the organization in 1997, she has served in several capacity including membership chairperson and now Vice-president. She is described as an ambassador for the organization because of he dedication and commitment to service in support of the Association's mission and goals.

Providing this year's keynote address was the Honorable Wilma A. Lewis, United States Attorney for the District of Columbia. Ms. Lewis, a native of the St. Thomas, USVI, is the first Presidentially appointed female and the second African American to serve as United States Attorney for the District of Columbia.