The Greater Miami (FL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated marked its 70th Anniversary with a dazzling and deeply meaningful Book & Author Luncheon that honored not only its rich legacy, but the enduring power of Black women’s stories. This year’s featured author, A’Lelia Bundles, biographer of Madam C.J. Walker and great-great-granddaughter of the iconic entrepreneur, brought history to life through her acclaimed book Joy Goddess: A’Lelia Walker and the Harlem Renaissance.
The event drew a distinguished audience filled with dignitaries, elected officials, community leaders, and Link history makers who came to celebrate seven decades of service, scholarship, and sisterhood. Their presence underscored the chapter’s stature as a guiding force in Miami’s civic and cultural landscape.
How A’Lelia Bundles Was Chosen
For Chairwoman Gail Ash Dotson, the connection was instantaneous.
“I saw Ms. Bundles on a morning news show and immediately noticed her grace, elegance, and the historical importance of the story she carried about her great-grandmother, A’Lelia Walker,” she shared. “After meeting her in person, it became clear that my initial impression was confirmed—graciousness, beauty, a warm spirit, and an overall giving nature.”
That impression was shared and expanded by Chairwoman Jessica Garrett Modkins, who led the author conversation and helped shape the event’s creative direction.
“What we wanted to create with this event was an experience,” Modkins said. “From guests being welcomed by two on-themed Cotton Club–style greeters in showgirl headdresses, to the seamless check-in provided by findmytablenumber.com we wanted this to be not only our biggest fundraiser, but the best guest experience we’ve ever produced.”
Modkins added that inviting Bundles was intentional, not just for the literary prestige, but for the transformative opportunity her work offers:
“Even in the conversation I led with our featured author, I wanted it to be more than a history lesson. I wanted guests to see themselves in the story of A’Lelia Walker, to see themselves in the legacy of Madam C.J. Walker, and to understand the importance of our history and how we can build upon it. This was a moment for guests to hear someone’s story and leave inspired and uplifted.”
The Experience: A Tribute to Legacy and Culture
The luncheon evoked the glamour of the Harlem Renaissance, echoing the world that shaped A’Lelia Walker, known widely as the patron saint of the era’s artistic explosion. From décor to dress to dialogue, the atmosphere blended sophistication with cultural reverence—fitting for a milestone anniversary and the chapter’s continued commitment to service through friendship.
Bundles expressed deep honor that her biography had been selected, noting that the event joins a tradition that has showcased authors such as Ambassador Andrew Young, Bebe Moore Campbell, and Terry McMillan.
The Vision Forward: President Sabrina Knight’s Goals for the Chapter
As the Greater Miami Chapter honored its past, President Sabrina Knight made clear that the next chapter of leadership is rooted in global consciousness, local empowerment, and internal unity.
- Strengthening International Impact
Knight aims to deepen the organization’s work in neighboring countries such as Haiti, Jamaica, and the Bahamas:
“We have already supported medical missions in Haiti, provided toys and bicycles for children, supplied tablets to students in Jamaica, and helped fund dormitory furnishings for college students in Nassau,” she noted. “During my administration, I want to expand and strengthen that impact.”
- Expanding Local Community Engagement
Under her leadership, the chapter has significantly grown its community involvement. She intends to build on that momentum through:
- Voter registration and education
- Mentorship and scholarship programs
- Strengthening partnerships that uplift underserved communities
- Deepening Sisterhood and Collaboration
Knight’s administration emphasizes unity among members and with neighboring chapters:
“My mission as President is to deepen relationships within Miami-Dade County and beyond, by creating inclusive service projects and sisterhood experiences that foster unity and connection.”
A Celebration Rooted in Legacy, Lifted by Vision
The 70th Anniversary of the Greater Miami (FL) Chapter of The Links was not simply a milestone—it reflected seventy years of service, elegance, influence, and empowerment. Through the presence of A’Lelia Bundles and the intentional leadership of Chairwomen Modkins and Dotson, the event bridged past and present, reminding attendees that history is not just something to be read it is something to inhabit, to honor, and to advance.
And under President Sabrina Knight’s forward-looking leadership, the chapter stands poised to carry that history into its next era with purpose, unity, and global impact.
