During Black History Month, we take pride in recognizing the significant impact made by three notable African American individuals in architecture, construction, and community development. Let us come together to commemorate the accomplishments and legacies of Moses McKissack III, William Sidney Pittman, and Devoyd “Dee” Jennings, who exemplify excellence, creativity, and commitment in their respective fields.
Honoring Moses McKissack III: A Legacy of Excellence
This Black History Month, we celebrate the remarkable legacy of Moses McKissack III, a pioneering figure in the field of architecture and construction. As the CEO of McKissack & McKissack, Moses McKissack III continued his family’s legacy of excellence, dating back to the founding of the company by his great-grandfather.
Moses McKissack III’s impact on the industry is profound. Under his leadership, McKissack & McKissack has been involved in iconic projects such as the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C., leaving a lasting imprint on the architectural landscape.
Beyond his professional achievements, Moses McKissack III was a champion for diversity and inclusion in the construction industry. He believed in creating opportunities for underrepresented communities and inspiring the next generation of Black architects and builders.
Post L Group is delighted to have the opportunity to work on its first project with McKissack & McKissack as the program manager on the recently awarded Dallas ISD Rufus Burleson Elementary School renovation project!
This Black History Month, let us honor Moses McKissack III for his visionary leadership, his dedication to excellence, and his commitment to diversity and inclusion. His legacy serves as an inspiration to us all.
Here is an article to learn more about Mr. Moses McKissack III.
Celebrating Architect William Sidney Pittman
This Black History Month, we honor the legacy of Architect William Sidney Pittman, a visionary whose work continues to inspire. Born in 1875, Pittman was the son of a freed slave and a pioneering architect in his own right.
Pittman’s journey was one of resilience and talent. He graduated from Tuskegee Institute in 1895, where he studied under Booker T. Washington. Later, he became the first African American to graduate from Drexel University’s architecture program in 1900.
Known for his innovative designs, Pittman established his own architectural practice in Washington, D.C. His projects ranged from residential homes to churches, leaving a mark of excellence and creativity wherever he went.
One of his most notable works is the Industrial Savings Bank in Washington, D.C., a testament to his skill and dedication to his craft. Pittman’s architectural prowess was matched only by his commitment to community upliftment, serving as a role model for future generations of architects and designers. According to TexasHighways.com, he has 15 known buildings to his credit in Texas. Seven of those, including the one pictured in Fort Worth, are still standing.
The name William Sidney Pittman holds a special place in the heart of Post L Group, in part because our firm President and CEO, Jeff Postell, was recognized with an award named for Mr. Pittman in 2023 from the Texas Association of Black Chambers of Commerce.
This Black History Month, let us remember and celebrate the remarkable contributions of Architect William Sidney Pittman to the world of architecture and beyond. His legacy serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for all.
Here is a link to an article about Mr. Pittman from TexasHighways.com written by Alex Tremblador
Celebrating Black Excellence in North Texas: Mr. Devoyd Jennings
This Black History Month, we shine a spotlight on prominent Fort Worth leader, the late Devoyd “Dee” Jennings. He served as President of the Fort Worth Metropolitan Black Chamber of Commerce (FWMBCC) and was a driving force in advocating for economic empowerment and social justice.
In addition to leading the FWMBCC, Mr. Jennings played a pivotal role in establishing two independent organizations that significantly contribute to minority economic development. The first is the William Mann Community Development Corp., a financial lending agency. The second is Southeast Fort Worth, Inc., a community development agency focused on fostering growth and progress in the east and southeast areas of Fort Worth.
As President and CEO of the Fort Worth Metropolitan Black Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Jennings dedicated himself to fostering entrepreneurship and economic development. Under his leadership, the chamber provided invaluable resources and support to Black-owned businesses, helping them thrive and succeed.
Post L Group’s President and CEO, Jeff Postell, said Dee Jennings was an advocate for his business. “Dee advocated for my business countless times (even when I could not be in the room at functions because I was hustling on my construction project sites); he represented me,” Jeff said. “Right before Dee’s passing, he called me and told me I was ‘the one,’ which I took to mean that he expected me to persevere,” Jeff continued. “He believed in me, and that gives me the determination to press on to make my business a success and pay it forward.”
Mr. Jenning’s commitment to his community extended beyond business. He was deeply involved in philanthropic endeavors, working tirelessly to uplift and empower those around him. His passion for creating a more equitable society serves as an inspiration to us all.
The Fort Worth Business Press, quoted Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker “Dee Jennings was a pillar of the Fort Worth community, a true friend and inspiration to so many, including my own family.” She continued “…Dee leaves behind a remarkable legacy because of his devotion to this community and willingness to continually lead and make all of us better.”
Mr. Jennings was raised in Fort Worth and was a proud and active alumnus of I.M. Terrell High School, class of 1966. He was a member of the 1965 state championship basketball team, coached by the legendary Robert Hughes. Mr. Jennings is honored in the Fort Worth ISD Wall of Fame. He went on to enroll at Tarrant County College before pursuing a degree in marketing at Texas Wesleyan University, where he graduated in 1971.
The City of Fort Worth named its Business Assistance Center honoring Mr. Jennings in 2023 The Devoyd Jennings Business Assistance Center.
This Black History Month, let’s honor Mr. Devoyd Jennings for his legacy of unwavering dedication to economic empowerment, social justice, and community development.
For more information about Mr. Jennings, here are links to articles about him at Texas Wesleyan and Fort Worth Business Press and a video of his obituary from Emerald Hills Funeral Home.
Featured Image Photography Credit: AAREG, TSHA, and Fort Worth Business Press.