Veteran journalist April Ryan has written a riveting new book that chronicles her experiences as a Capitol Hill correspondent for nearly 20 years and covering the tenures of three American presidents. Ryan will be honored with the annual Politics Award at the African American Chamber of Commerce (AACCNJ) Fifth Anniversary Circle of Achievement Awards gala next week at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in New Brunswick, NJ.
Ryan’s book, “The Presidency in Black and White: My Up Close View of Three Presidents and Race in America,” highlights her distinguished 28-year career as an American journalist?and nearly 20 year stint covering the coveted White House beat for American Urban Radio Networks. The book was published earlier this month.? Ryan is also the host of an eponymous new digital television program—The White House Report with April Ryan– for Colours TV.
Throughout the book, Ryan offers a frank and candid look at President Barack Obama and his two most recent predecessors, George W. Bush and Bill Clinton. Of President Obama, Ryan said since becoming president, Obama has and continues to transcend and raise the nation above some of the past hatred and racism that has plagued it. However, she adds, ?He is a leader, who especially early in his administration, drew fire and criticism from those who noted his absences from various national racial issues.???
About Ryan, AACCNJ President John Harmon Sr., said, ?She is an extremely dedicated, distinguished and tenacious African American and her work significantly underscores and advocates our mission as a major voice for our community.?
Ryan will host a book signing immediately prior to the AACCN gala.? Joining her among this year’s gala honorees are Paulette Brown, president-elect of the American Bar Association and a partner and chief diversity officer with the Morristown (NJ) law firm of Edwards Wildman Palmer; Rochelle Hendricks, New Jersey’s first secretary of higher education; and Janus C. Holder. CEO and owner of EJE Travel Retail in Newark, NJ.? Desiree Rogers, CEO of Johnson Publishing Company and former White House Social Secretary under the Obama Administration, will be the keynote speaker at the event.? All are encouraged to attend the black-tie affair and register at the AACCNJ web site.
