Hall of Fame

For six decades, Raymond Figueroa stood at the epicenter of the digital revolution, working at the historic crossroads where physical communication networks met digital computing power. His visionary career transformed traditional telephone technology, bridging the gap between hardware-heavy voice networks and software-driven data processing. Ray’s professional evolution perfectly mirrored the trajectory of the modern tech era. He began his journey in the mechanical world of the printing industry but quickly recognized that the future belonged to integrated systems. After earning an associate degree in Electronics from RCA, he aggressively expanded his expertise into computer science, mastering the IT and control data protocols that would soon govern global networks. This rare, blended skillset sparked the launch of his own IT consulting company, R&R Consultants. As global demand soared, Ray’s work took him to every U.S. state, across Europe, and throughout the Southern Caribbean—fostering a deep, lifelong love for global collaboration. Along the way, he mastered the complex interpersonal dynamics of corporate leadership, guiding people through seasons of intense technological change. Retiring at age 77, Ray leaves a lasting legacy built on the belief that a genuine, adaptable passion for technology is the ultimate key to thriving in an ever-evolving world.

A distinguished veteran of both military operations and global diplomacy, Tyrone Gray dedicated 38 years to protecting his nation and shaping its future leaders. Leaving his home state of Mississippi at age 18, he embarked on a profound global journey characterized by disciplined leadership, tactical expertise in high-hazard environments, and an unwavering commitment to mentorship. Tyrone Gray’s journey is a masterclass in discipline, evolution, and an unyielding commitment to protection. Tyrone forged a distinguished career in the U.S. Army, mastering the high-stakes discipline of a Combat Engineer and Explosives Expert. While his expertise kept operations moving safely, his deepest fulfillment came from shaping the next generation. For three profound years, Tyrone stepped up as a Drill Sergeant, commanding the respect and trust required to transform, train, and guide hundreds of young men and women into resilient, disciplined leaders. By the time he retired from active service at age 39, he had already built a profound legacy. Rather than slowing down, Tyrone transitioned his elite skill set to a global stage, dedicating another 17 years to the Department of State’s Diplomatic Security service. This second chapter expanded his footprint across the globe, taking him to Germany, South Korea, Italy, France, Spain, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Kuwait. In every territory, he not only safeguarded vital American diplomacy but also leaned into the human element of his travels, learning to deeply appreciate diverse cultures and local customs. Throughout his 38 extraordinary years of combined service, Tyrone’s blueprint for success has remained clear and actionable. He attributes his survival and growth to an unshakeable philosophy: master every step required for advancement, stay focused by blocking out outside distractions, and always listen to seasoned mentors who have walked the path before you. Today, his timeless advice serves as a roadmap for the future leaders following in his footsteps urging them to prepare early through the ASVAB and ROTC, stay the course through early responsibility, and leverage military discipline to open doors that last a lifetime. We celebrate a true patriot, an elite protector, and a mentor of heroes.

True pioneers do not wait for the world to change; they change it by defying everything society says they cannot do. For Delmas Henderson, a lifetime of fearless activism began with a profound and heartbreaking moment of awakening. As a young child of just six or seven years old in Macon, Mississippi, he witnessed the horrific sight of a man hanging from a tree. Rather than allowing this deep injustice to breed fear, he transformed that unforgettable pain into a lifelong mission. He chose to stand strong, risking everything to fight for constitutional rights and human dignity. By 1963, Delmas was on the front lines of history, joining the Freedom Ride Bus boycott in Meridian, Mississippi. He put his life on the line alongside iconic giants of the Civil Rights Movement, including activist Fannie Lou Hamer and the late Congressman John Lewis. In 1964, he was elected Secretary of the Mississippi Freedom Young Democratic Club of America. That very same year, his voice echoed all the way to the Democratic National Convention in Atlantic City, where he stood face-to-face with the 36th President of the United States, Lyndon B. Johnson. Delmas Henderson’s fight for liberation knew no borders. He extended his advocacy by working closely with the Black Panther Party to champion community empowerment. In 1970, his mission went global when he traveled to Cuba with the historic Venceremos Brigade, meeting directly with Fidel Castro. Throughout his extraordinary journey, Delmas remained a steady, trusted presence among the world's most influential leaders. He stood in the presence of President Bill Clinton twice and later dedicated his immense energy to the national campaigns of the 44th President, Barack Obama, once more as an active participant to history being made. Delmas Henderson turned the darkest memory of his childhood into an enduring, global legacy of powerful change. He is the definition of courage, resilience, and a true champion of civil rights.

Debra Cardone did not just teach; she revolutionized. For 40 years, she chose to anchor her career within elite private schools, serving as a critical cultural mirror for African American students while boldly deconstructing stereotypes for the nation’s future leaders. By navigating the unique pressures of independent schooling with strict professionalism and data-driven detachment, she earned the creative freedom to reject standardized limits and design truly dynamic, student-centered learning experiences. Her curriculum challenged bias, her presence combated isolation, and her leadership ensured that tomorrow’s policy makers, CEOs, and judges developed the vital cultural competence to govern a diverse world. The ultimate proof of her legacy is the global impact of her former students including foundational alumni from the Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences who are now Emmy winners, Academy Award nominees, NBA stars, and tech titans. We celebrate a true champion of educational equity.

Annette Woullard devoted 30 years to public education in North Carolina, serving with distinction as both an English Teacher and a Principal’s Secretary until her retirement in 1989. Driven by the profound belief that "every career begins with a teacher," she entered the profession to unlock student potential and prepare the next generation of doctors, lawyers, engineers, and community leaders. Throughout her three decades of service, Annette was passionately committed to helping students develop strong reading, writing, and communication skills. She operated on the guiding principle that every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed. For Annette, thriving in education meant caring for students beyond the classroom, meeting them exactly where they were, and never giving up on their potential. Her greatest career reward was watching her students transform into confident, lifelong learners and responsible, productive citizens. A fierce advocate for literacy, she championed the truth that “Reading is Fundamental,” knowing that literacy opens the doors to knowledge, opportunity, and a better quality of life.Tonight, we honor Annette Woullard for her extraordinary dedication, deep compassion, and the enduring legacy she leaves behind in the countless lives she enriched.

Celebrating a remarkable 35-year career in healthcare, Sheila Figueroa embodies the true spirit of nursing: care, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to people in their times of need. Driven by a childhood dream, Sheila spent decades serving patients and later made a profound systemic impact as a Nurse Surveyor for the New York States Dept. Of Health. Known for her deep empathy and lifelong passion for learning, she navigated the complexities of healthcare with grace, gratitude, and a commitment to mentorship. Tonight we are honored to welcome Sheila Figueroa into the Henderson Hall of Fame, celebrating a legacy of service that will inspire generations of nurses to come.

We honor a true trailblazer who has spent over two decades serving and protecting our community with unparalleled integrity. For 21 years, she has dedicated her life to justice as the District Attorney Investigator for Jefferson County, paving the way for future generations as the very first female investigator in Jefferson County, Alabama history. Her remarkable journey began at the Birmingham Police Department, where her exceptional work caught the eye of District Attorney David Barber. Recognizing her immense potential, he approached her with an offer that would change her life, proving that this noble career truly chose her. Throughout her flawless 21-year tenure, she has operated by a simple yet powerful creed: do the right thing and treat people right, because someone is always watching. Known for her impeccable character, unmatched ability to connect with people from all walks of life, and a legendary "bag of tricks" used to track down those trying to evade justice, she has been an invaluable asset to her fellow attorneys. As she prepares for a well-deserved retirement in the fall of 2027 and says goodbye to that county vehicle with free gas, we celebrate a legacy of historic firsts, absolute integrity, and dedicated service.

It is our honor to welcome Gail T. Henderson-Staples into the Henderson Hall of Fame in recognition of her extraordinary professional achievements, distinguished public service, and unwavering commitment to justice and community. A respected attorney for more than four decades, Gail has served as a partner in the Huntington law firm of Henderson, Henderson & Staples, LC since 1985, building a reputation as a skilled advocate and trusted counselor. Throughout her career, she has represented hundreds of clients in a broad range of legal matters, including civil rights, personal injury, wrongful death, medical malpractice, criminal defense, real estate, and administrative law. Her dedication to public service culminated in her service as Municipal Court Judge for the City of Huntington, West Virginia, from 2020 to 2025, where she brought fairness, integrity, and compassion to the bench. A graduate of Chatham College and the West Virginia University College of Law, Gail has combined professional excellence with a lifelong commitment to civic and charitable organizations. She has also provided leadership within numerous legal associations, including the West Virginia State Bar Association, the National Bar Association, the American Association of Justice, and the Mountain State Bar Association. Gail Henderson-Staples’ remarkable career reflects a lifetime devoted to advocacy, leadership, and service. Her accomplishments have enriched her profession, strengthened her community, and inspired those who have had the privilege to know and work alongside her. Tonight we proudly recognize and celebrate her induction into the Henderson Hall of Fame.