The Sterling Heights Ethnic Community Committee proudly honored the recipients of the 2025 Diversity Distinction Awards at a dinner held Oct. 1 to celebrate the people and programs that make Sterling Heights one of Michigan’s most vibrant and welcoming communities. The Diversity Distinction Awards honor individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within the community.
This year’s honorees are Abdul “Karriem” Muhammad, Tracey Denson Scott, Diana Bledsoe, and Sue Giallombardo. Each honoree was recognized for their leadership, advocacy and commitment to fostering understanding and connection throughout Sterling Heights.
“These awardees embody the very spirit of community that defines Sterling Heights,” said Sterling Heights Mayor Michael C. Taylor. “Their dedication, compassion and leadership inspire us all to continue building a city where every voice is valued and every person belongs.”
The Sterling Heights Ethnic Community Committee established the Diversity Distinction Awards to recognize individuals who embody the principles of inclusion and unity through their professional and personal contributions.
The eleven-member Sterling Heights Ethnic Community Committee was formed in 1990. The committee’s goals include developing understanding and improving communication among diverse races and ethnic groups in the city.
2025 Honorees
Abdul “Karriem” Muhammad
A Workforce Development Specialist with PCSI, a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of people with disabilities, Abdul “Karriem” Muhammad has become a local leader in inclusion and advocacy. Originally from Philadelphia, Karriem is known for his ability to build partnerships and solve problems across diverse communities.
Karriem played a key role in championing the City’s resolution declaring October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) and continues to organize events celebrating the contributions of professionals with disabilities. He also sponsors Sterling Heights’ Human Library events, promoting dialogue, empathy and inclusion.
Tracey Denson Scott
A respected entrepreneur, mentor, wife, mother and grandmother, Tracey Denson Scott embodies the values of faith, family and community. For more than two decades, she has led the Tracey Denson Scott Insurance Agency in Madison Heights, where she is known as “the insurance agent who cares” for her genuine dedication to helping families feel confident in their coverage. From humble beginnings – her father was a cotton picker who retired from Ford Motor Company, and her grandfather a sharecropper -- Tracey has built a legacy of service and empowerment. She currently serves as vice chair of the Sterling Heights African American Coalition and mentors high school girls through Winning Futures, inspiring them to pursue their goals with courage and purpose.
Diana Bledsoe
A 32-year resident of Sterling Heights, Diana Bledsoe is a retired General Motors professional and a passionate advocate for equity and inclusion. Diana has served the Sterling Heights African American Coalition since its founding in 2020 – first as Vice Chair and now as Chair – working to ensure that “Sterling Heights is a community where African Americans thrive.”
Diana also serves on the Sterling Heights Citizen Advisory Commission, is an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and a member of Triumph Church. Her life reflects her deep values of faith, family, and service.
Sue Giallombardo
After nearly 23 years of service with the City of Sterling Heights, Sue Giallombardo leaves an enduring legacy of connection and inclusion. As Community Relations Specialist and liaison to the Ethnic Community Committee for 16 years, Sue was instrumental in organizing the City’s Cultural Exchange and the Diversity Distinction Awards Dinner.
Through her leadership, these programs flourished and expanded, strengthening partnerships across local clubs and organizations. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Sue is known for her warmth, friendship, and love of golf.