The Blacks of the Chesapeake Foundation, Inc. is moving 'Onwards and Upwards'!

Annapolis, MD — The Board of Directors of the Blacks of the Chesapeake Foundation, Inc. (BoCF) has unanimously voted to appoint M. DeLois (Dee) Strum as the organization’s new Chief Executive Officer.

Following the sudden passing of BoCF’s founder, Vincent Leggett, “Admiral of the Chesapeake,” Strum was named Interim CEO during a special meeting of the Board. In her interim role, she has guided the Foundation through a season of transition, growth, and renewed commitment to its mission of preserving African American maritime heritage and advancing environmental justice.

Under Strum’s leadership, BoCF has expanded its team and strengthened its operations. Notably, the Foundation appointed John Queen as Executive Director, along with new staff member Greg Gwaltney, and interns Anna Sumner and Dez Holland. Additionally, Marlene Shanley has been selected to serve as Director of Volunteers, leading a dedicated corps of more than 30 volunteers who form the backbone of BoCF’s community programs and events.

“The appointment of Dee Strum as CEO represents both continuity and bold new direction for our organization,” said Rev. Samuel Williams, Board Chairman. “Her leadership, vision, and deep commitment to our founder’s legacy have positioned BoCF to build on its storied past while charting a strong future.”

The Board’s unanimous vote underscores its confidence in Strum’s ability to advance BoCF’s mission, sustain its heritage-preservation work, and expand opportunities for youth engagement, environmental stewardship, and community partnerships across the Chesapeake Bay region.

For more information about the Blacks of the Chesapeake Foundation and its ongoing initiatives, please visit (Blacksofthechesapeake.com)