30 Years of Adisa
A Day of Community and Celebration
On Friday, May 30, Adisa Communications marked 30 years of purpose-driven impact with a vibrant anniversary luncheon at Canje, one of Austin’s most celebrated culinary destinations. The event brought together longtime partners, clients, and community leaders to honor a legacy rooted in storytelling, strategy, and service.
From the moment guests arrived, the tone was set: joyful African drumming welcomed attendees to a step-and-repeat photo moment before moving indoors for an inspiring program, a delicious Caribbean lunch, and heartfelt celebration.
From beginning to end, the day was wrapped in care, spirit, and the grace of community. It was only fitting that the celebration was both opened and closed in blessings—intentional moments that grounded us in gratitude and purpose.
Our celebration opened with a powerful blessing from Keiko Anderson, Esq., grounding the day in intention and gratitude.
We closed with an extraordinary benediction from Rev. Jennifer Cumberbatch, sending us forward with renewed purpose and joy.
At the heart of the celebration was our Luminary Awards—a tribute to individuals and organizations whose leadership and impact have shaped the communities around us. Each honoree was introduced by a member of Team Adisa and presented with flowers and a special gift in recognition of their contributions. They were also honored during the program with a vocal tribute from Shawnda Birch accompanied by guitar.
Join us in continuing to celebrate our Luminary Honorees:
- Matias Segura – Public Servant
- Dr. Letitia Plummer – Public Servant
- Scott Stites – Business
- Chris Hyams – Business
- Cookie Ruiz, C.F.R.E. – Creative Arts
- Martin C. Jones – Creative Arts
- Housing Authority of the City of Austin – Nonprofit Organization
- Julia C. Hester House – Nonprofit Organization
- Lynn Meredith – Lifetime Achievement
- Ashton Cumberbatch – Lifetime Achievement
Their stories inspired the room and reminded us that equity, creativity, and compassion are not just values—they’re actions. These Luminaries light the path forward with their brilliance, reminding us of what’s possible when service meets soul and purpose meets power.
Here’s to continuing their legacy—and building on it—for the next 30 years and beyond.
As we began the program, a representative from Mayor Kirk Watson’s office delivered a proclamation celebrating Adisa Communications’ 30 years of service and community impact.
We were also very humbled when just a few days later, on Thursday, June 3, Council Members Natasha Harper-Madison and Ryan Alter honored Adisa Communications at Austin City Hall, officially proclaiming Adisa Communications Day in the City of Austin.
As part of the celebration, Adisa Communications released The Grateful Book—a beautiful collection of reflections, stories, and milestones from our three decades of impact. Featuring voices from clients, collaborators, and community partners, the book captures the essence of what it means to walk beside us in this work.
For 30 years, Adisa Communications has been at the intersection of storytelling, strategy, and social change—uplifting communities, shaping narratives, and moving hearts. The Grateful Book is both a tribute to that journey and a reminder that the most meaningful work is never done alone. It’s a testament to the trust, courage, and collaboration that have powered every campaign, conversation, and connection along the way.
Guests were welcomed in unforgettable fashion—with a red carpet entrance and the powerful rhythms of Afrique Gninze drummers, setting the tone for a day of joy, culture, and celebration.
A huge thank you to our incredible emcees, Jennifer Sanders and Brian Jones, who brought heart, soul, and unmistakable joy to the celebration. Their energy, grace, and genuine connection to the community helped set the tone for a day filled with meaning, memories, and movement.
Guests enjoyed an amazing and bold lunch curated by Canje, bursting with beautiful Caribbean flavors that matched the energy of the day—set to the soulful sounds of acoustic guitar and vocals by the talented Sammy J, creating a warm, vibrant backdrop for connection and celebration. Special thanks to Flowers by Flo, who created the vibrant floral arrangements and bouquets for our Luminaries.
One of the most heartfelt moments of the celebration was a one-on-one conversation between Shuronda and Dr. Steven Tomlinson.
They reflected on 30 years of Adisa Communications—sharing stories of purpose, perseverance, and the people who’ve shaped the journey. It was a powerful tribute to the heart behind the work.
The program closed with a touching tribute from Shuronda’s mom, Dorris Ellis Robinson, who shared heartfelt words and beamed with pride for her daughter’s legacy, leadership, and love for community.
We ended the celebration just as we began—with joy, connection, and community. After a powerful program and heartfelt tributes, guests were sent off in true Adisa style: curated gift bags in hand and the rhythm of DJ Kay Cali setting the tone. The space transformed into a dance floor filled with laughter, movement, and unforgettable energy.
It wasn’t just a finale—it was a full-circle moment that captured the soul of Adisa Communications: rooted in purpose, lifted by people, and always led with joy.
Thank you to our Sponsors who helped make this event possible:
Chris Hyams and Lize Burr, Lynn Meredith,
Law Office of Keiko Griffin, and Commissioner Jeff Travillion
Much appreciation to those who contributed to the experience
Mayor Kirk Watson’s Office
Black Tie Creative
Council Member Natasha Harper-Madison
Keira Hand Photography
Sammy J
Canje
Afrique Gninze Drummers
Flowers by Flo Bowen
Mia the Event Diva
Jennifer Sanders
Minuteman Press – Cedar Park
Brian Jones
Keiko Anderson, ESQ.
Dr. Steven Tomlinson
Aaron Demerson
Rev. Jennifer Cumberbatch