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Richard Allen Coalition celebrates Black history

Dionne Patterson shares her experience walking the paths of those escaping slavery, which led to her creating the UGR3DAY Underground Railroad Experiences. DENY HOWETH PHOTOS
Deny Howeth
February 12, 2026

The Richard Allen Coalition held its 11th annual gala Feb. 7 to celebrate members of the community and the revitalization of the historic landmark school.

Dionne Patterson, founder of the Underground Railroad Experience, offered the keynote speech. What began as a birthday celebration with friends to journey the path known as the Underground Railroad turned into her life work, called UGR3DAY Underground Railroad Experiences. The program offers immersive encounters where participants learn untold stories while exploring landscapes, historic homes and supportive organizations that made escaping from slavery possible. 

Honorees during the event included the Georgetown Police Department, Anthony Neal, Markishia Wise and Gene Dvornick. These individuals play a vital part in supporting the coalition’s goal to build a community center to develop educational and cultural initiatives. 

Keynote speaker Dionne Patterson chats with Sherry Dorsey Walker, former Delaware House representative for District 3.
Sen. Lisa Blunt Rochester greets Joann and Joe Conaway at the gala.
Georgetown Mayor Bill West pauses for a photo with Bishop Marvin Morris and Lorraine Morris, longtime members of the Georgetown community
Janie Miller, left, and Diana Duffy are ready to listen to the keynote speaker.
Richard Allen Coalition Board President Jane Hovington welcomes honorees and guests to the gala.
Gathered on stage to share stories about their connection to the Richard Allen School are (l-r) RAC Board President Jane Hovington; Sen. Lisa Blunt Rochester, D-Del.; Sen. Brian Pettyjohn, R-Georgetown; and Board Secretary Ivan Neal.
RAC Board Vice Chair Darrell Melvin fills the crowd in about the renovations happening on the school grounds.
Gene Dvornick, Georgetown town manager, accepts an award for his commitment to the Richard Allen Coalition vision. Shown are (l-r) Board Secretary Ivan Neal, Dvornick and Board President Jane Hovington.
The Georgetown Police Department receives an award for its commitment to supporting coalition events. Shown are (l-r) Board Secretary Ivan Neal, Chief Ralph Holm, Deputy Chief Joel Diaz and Board President Jane Hovington.
Anthony Neal receives recognition for his nonstop support of Richard Allen Coalition events and school renovations. Shown are (l-r) Board Secretary Ivan Neal, Anthony Neal, and Board President Jane Hovington.
Markishia Wise receives an award for her time spent supporting the underprivileged, with a focus on children. Shown are (l-r) Board Secretary Ivan Neal, Wise, and Board President Jane Hovington.
Darrell Melvin accepts an award for his constant support of the school renovations. Shown are (l-r) Board Secretary Ivan Neal, Board Vice Chair Darrell Melvin and Board President Jane Hovington.
Sen. Brian Pettyjohn, R-Georgetown, and Bernice Edwards, executive director of First State Community Action Agency, share a story about the history of the Richard Allen School.
RAC Board President Jane Hovington, left, shares a photo op with Sen. Lisa Blunt Rochester.
Richard Allen Coalition board members Harry Crapper, left, and Paula Roberts pause for a photo.
The Sussex Community Gospel Choir opens the Richard Allen Coalition gala ceremonies with a song.
Gathered for a photo during the gala are (l-r) Georgetown Mayor Bill West, Sen. Brian Pettyjohn, Faye West, Sherry Dorsey Walker, Kevin Spence, Gene Dvornick and Pastor Robert Brown.
Guests can bid on a variety of baskets during the silent auction.

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