Percy Julian High graduate honored by National Association of Black Journalists

Ralph Stokes, who is a graduate of Percy Julian High School in Montgomery, was honored by the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) with the Sam Lacy Pioneer Award.

The award that was "powered" by the Major League Baseball and PGA Tour was given the award by the NABJ Sports Task Force at a ceremony in Atlanta, GA on Aug. 14.

Stokes is Vice President of Social Impact Partnerships and Community Relations at PGA TOUR Superstore and was recognized for "expanding access, opportunity, and representation in sport and culture," according to a press release.

“The Sam Lacy Pioneer Award recognizes those who change the course of history by creating opportunities for others, and that is exactly what Ralph continues to do,” said Arthur M. Blank, owner and chairman, PGA TOUR Superstore and the Blank Family of Businesses.

“He has spent decades proving that leadership is not measured by titles, but by the lives you impact. His passion for expanding opportunity, mentoring youth and championing inclusion has positively impacted PGATSS for the past 20 years, the game of golf and the countless communities and individuals he continues to touch. Congratulations to Ralph on this beyond well-deserved and prestigious recognition."

Stokes was noted for expanding access to gold for the PGA TOUR Superstore  and for fostering partnerships with First Tee, the Advocates Professional Golf Association (APGA Tour), the American Junior Golf Association (AJGA), and the PGA of America REACH Foundation that includes PGA HOPE and PGA Jr. League.

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“Ralph Stokes has made an extraordinary impact on the game of golf and beyond through his leadership, advocacy, and commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for others,” said Troy Rice, Chief Executive Officer, PGA TOUR Superstore.

“Throughout his life, Ralph has used his voice to build connections, open doors, and inspire positive change across communities. We are proud to have his passion and perspective as part of PGA TOUR Superstore.”

He is the author of "One of the First," a memoir about dealing with discrimination and integration as one of one of the first black football players while he attended high school, which was called Robert E. Lee High School at the time, as well as being recruited by Alabama coach Paul “Bear” Bryant. 

“I am humbled to receive the Sam Lacy Pioneer Award, which honors the legacy of a man who helped tell the story of integration in professional sports, and to join such distinguished honorees,” said Stokes.

“I am grateful to NABJ for this recognition, and for my family and the many people who have supported and encouraged me, and who have taught me the importance of perseverance and the difference we can make in the lives of others.”