SARASOTA, FL — April 25, 2026 — In a powerful testament to leadership, community service, and academic excellence, the Sarasota (FL) Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. proudly hosted its landmark 2026 recognition event. The distinguished organization officially presented its 2026 Citizen of the Year Awards alongside honoring nine exceptional local students with the Steve Lewis Scholarship Award. The event festivities concluded with the presentation of the Sarasota (FL) Alumni Awards, featuring the Polemarch Man of the Year and Kappa Man of the Year.
2026 Citizen of the Year Honorees
This year, the chapter recognizes two remarkable trailblazers whose local and global impacts showcase the power of dedication and service.
Jamie Kahn — Manatee County Citizen of the Year: Since 2010, Kahn has been a major driving force at Bank of America, where she heads market strategy for the Eastern seaboard. A former nonprofit director, Community Champion, and Tampa Bay 40 Under 40 honoree, she serves on three major boards and mentors women globally through the Cherie Blair Foundation. Her professional acumen is paired with an internal drive to build communities and support her family—husband Bob and sons Kenny and Vinny.
Jone Williams — Sarasota County Citizen of the Year: As the Educational Outreach Director for the Safe Children Coalition, Mrs. Williams is a cornerstone of youth advocacy in the foster care system. For over 15 years, she has directed the Hippy and Achievers programs, guiding local youth toward lifelong academic success. Under her visionary stewardship, the Achievers Program has provided over $1 million in scholarship funding, opening a pathway for roughly 100 students to attend the University of South Florida (USF) alongside graduates reaching elite institutions like Harvard University.
2026 Steve Lewis Scholarship Awardees
Operating on the core precept of encouraging achievement in every field of human endeavor, the chapter presented scholarship funding to nine standout students across Manatee and Sarasota counties. The awards support youth pursuing diverse academic, healthcare, and vocational pathways.
Nursing Category
Victoria Estrada (Booker HS) — Honored for her commitment to entering the healthcare field and advancing patient care.
Collin Carter (Venice HS) — A standout Venice High School senior who ranks 19th in his class of 650 students. While rigorously balancing his studies in the State College of Florida (SCF) Medical Academy, Carter has also excelled as an indispensable, long-term legal clerk, earning a flawless reputation for his work ethic.
Collegiate Category
Sekayi Callaway (Booker HS) — Recognized for academic excellence and dedication to pursuing a four-year university degree.
Kyron Davis (Palmetto HS) — Celebrated for scholastic achievement and leadership potential at the university level.
Ryan Freddolino (Venice HS) Honored for his drive, strong academic record, and commitment to higher education.
Zachariah Kersey Lakewood Ranch HS) — Commended for his outstanding collegiate pursuits and deep dedication to his studies.
Dang Le (Venice HS) — Honored for showing academic distinction and a clear vision for collegiate success.
Career Readiness (Technical) Category
Killian Knowlton (Riverview HS) — Awarded for exceptional promise and dedication to mastering a specialized technical trade.
Mackston Turner (Palmetto HS) — Recognized for his commitment to career readiness and developing high-demand workforce skills.
Sarasota (FL) Alumni Awards
Kappa Man of the Year – Herb Watson
Polemarch Man of the Year- Khalil Garcia
A Legacy of Achievement
“Leadership and achievement are about building up the community around you and lifting up the next generation,” said a representative from the Sarasota Alumni Chapter. “Both our Citizens of the Year and our scholarship recipients represent the pinnacle of service and hard work. By investing in these nine exceptional students and honoring these two legendary leaders, we are cementing a brighter future for the entire Gulf Coast region.”
About Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc.
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. is an international organization founded on January 5, 1911. The Sarasota (FL) Alumni Chapter is deeply committed to community service, youth mentoring, and providing educational opportunities and scholarships to elevate the local community.
Media Contact: Keenan Wooten
Polemarch- Sarasota (FL) Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc.
Email: Sarasotaalumni1911@gmail.com
Phone: 941.704.6746
