by Shawn Nowlin
The City of Roanoke has a population of nearly 100,000 residents. Some of its brightest stars were recently recognized for their contributions to the community at the Melrose Public Library.
At just six, Ollie Howie started the “My Brother’s Keeper (MBK) Club.” Even at that young age, he knew that simply giving socks to the less fortunate made the world a better place.
During his time at William Fleming High School, he interned for Senator Mark Warner, Roanoke Clerk Brenda Hamilton and former Mayor Dave Bowers.
Former Roanoke City Public Schools (RCPS) Superintendent Rita Bishop referred to Howie as a district legend after he received a community service award from President Barack Obama.
A 2013 RCPS graduate and valedictorian who registered a perfect score on his civics SOL, Howie went on to study economics at Harvard College. One of the most selective schools in America, Harvard’s acceptance rate has historically been below four percent.
The Marcus Wilson Scholarship, named in honor of a promising local teen who lost his life in 2010 in a car accident, was one of the financial aid packages Howie earned before heading off to Boston.
Today, in addition to serving as the founder and managing partner of Mount Auburn Venture Partners, Howie remains a prominent leader in his hometown. Earlier this year, he purchased the Roanoke Rambler from its owner Henri Gendreau.
Thirteen years ago, Roanoke City Council proclaimed May 31st as “Ollie Howie Day.” Over the years, it has evolved into a vibrant celebration of community and service.
The Ollie Howie Awards, known as “the Ollies,” went to several individuals at the library last Saturday: the Rev. Dr. Cedric Malone, Sheriff Antonio Hash, Claudia Whitworth, Lorena Wilson, TLOT Ministries, Coach Donte Dunnaville, Mitzi Willingham and DJ Dink Harrington & family.
The inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award went to the Roanoke Tribune.
“I’m appreciative of everyone because this is truly a team effort. I ask that we not only reflect, but look forward into who we can pour into,” Howie said.
Speaking to those in attendance, Victor Banks, who joined his son at the Roanoke Rambler, said, “Howie was never the type to stay up all night and play video games. Many times, I would watch TV and he would say, ‘Would you mind turning that down so I can study?’ Everything has come from hard work and discipline.”
Jamarion “Chucky” Henderson, a talented student-athlete who possesses strong leadership potential, served as the event’s emcee.
“It seems like yesterday that I was giving this young man a scholarship,” Wilson said. “It’s truly devastating to lose a child. But to take that pain and change it into something. To give back to the community, this young man is why I do what I do.”
“Ninety percent of the people who come into our custody return into our communities,” Hash said. “If God wasn’t on my side, I wouldn’t be able to stand in this position. Our motto has been ‘Excellence & Service’ this year at the sheriff’s office.”
“Upon meeting Ollie for the first time, I realized immediately what a dynamic individual he was. It’s all about our youth because they are the future. People who can inspire you mean so much,” Hale said.
Despite all the success he has achieved, Howie remains grounded in his Roanoke roots. Those who know him best believe that his impact has just begun.
