Black Culture Foundation Names Christen Irving as the New President
The new officer slate has been approved for the July 15 transition, with former president Carl M. Dameron transitioning to an advisory role.
”It is both an honor and a responsibility to step into the Presidency of the Black Culture Foundation. I’m committed to ensuring Black Culture Foundation continues to be a homefor culture, community, and connection for generations to come,” said Christen Irving.
Riverside, CA – The Black Culture Foundation today announced a leadership transition, with Carl M. Dameron stepping down as president and Christen Irving advancing to the role, effective July 15, 2026.
Dameron, who has led the Foundation for two years, cited ongoing health challenges as the reason for the transition. Despite stepping away from the day-to-day role, Dameron will remain deeply involved as an advisor to the organization.
“Serving as President of the Black Culture Foundation has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” Dameron said. “Together, we brought back our historic Black History Parade after a several-year hiatus, reigniting the very spirit that launched our organization in 1968. While my role must change, my commitment to our mission remains unbreakable.”
The Foundation’s Board of Directors has approved a complete slate of officers to lead the organization into its next chapter: President: Christen Irving; Vice President: Joseph “JPash”Patrick; Secretary: Aicheria Bell; returning board members are Media Director: Ezekiel Adeleke; Treasurer: Dolores Armstead.
Bronica Martindale continues her role as Black Rose Committee Chair, overseeing the Black Rose Awards. Russel Ward remains the Black Culture Parade Chair, responsible for organizing the annual parade celebrating Black Culture and heritage. Vickie Davies returns as Festival Chair, leading efforts to coordinate festival activities, performances, and community engagement.
Irving previously served as Secretary and brings extensive professional experience as the head of her own business consulting firm, Irving Media Consultants, specializing in project management and fundraising for small businesses. Dameron expressed full confidence in the new leadership team.
“Christen has already proven her dedication through outstanding service as our Secretary,” Dameron said. “She brings vibrant youth, an undeniable passion for our culture, and a phenomenal team of professionals. Backed by this exceptional slate, I am entirely confident that this team possesses the modern vision, strategic expertise, and deep-rooted commitment required to elevate the Black Culture Foundation to historic new heights.”
”It is both an honor and a responsibility to step into the Presidency of the Black Culture Foundation. Our history is our foundation, but our future is what we build together, and I’m committed to ensuring Black Culture Foundation continues to be a home for culture, community and connection for generations to come,” said Irving.
The 34th Black Rose Awards are Saturday, September 12, at the Santos Manuel Student Union at California State University, San Bernardino. The 47th annual Black History parade is Saturday, February 7, on Baseline Avenue in San Bernardino from Mt. Vernon to Arroyo High School.
The Black Culture Foundation, founded in 1968, is dedicated to celebrating and promoting African American culture, history, and community empowerment.
About the Black Culture Foundation
The Black Culture Foundation’s purpose “…is to foster an interest and a greater understanding of Black culture, to heighten community awareness of the accomplishments of Black people, past and present and to plan, coordinate and direct an annual Black History Month parade and related cultural activities…[and] bridge the gaps across cultural lines by bringing the local community together to celebrate this event in the spirit of unity and brotherhood.” The Black Rose Awards and the Black History Parade and Festival are the Foundation’s showcase cultural event. For more information about the Black Culture Foundation, go to: SBBCFoundation.org.