Arizona's business sector mourned the loss of a prominent leader this week as the community paid respects to the late Robin Reed, former CEO of the Black Chamber of Arizona. 62-year-old Reed passed away on February 28, just days after celebrating his birthday. An advocate for business equality and a connector of people, Reed was honored on Monday at the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix, as reported by ABC15.
The Phoenix business community is reeling from the loss of Reed, a man described as a mentor, friend, and champion of community building and social activism. His tenure at the Black Chamber began in November 2016, and since then, Reed made a significant impact on the local business landscape. "He wanted to change the world and he was doing it one little bit at a time,” his wife, Shawna Reed, shared in a statement.
Leaders from various sectors attended the memorial service, speaking about Reed's influence and legacy in Arizona. "Robin was my greatest champion. Robin was a confidant. Robin was a big brother,” said Marchelle Franklin, a board member of the Black Chamber of Arizona, according to interviews held at the service. Congressman Greg Stanton also noted Reed's indelible mark on the community, saying, “His passing leaves a gaping hole in the heart of this community.”
In a statement posted on its Facebook page, the Black Chamber of Arizona expressed the collective grief of its members and stakeholders. “The passing of Robin Reed, the Black Chamber of Arizona’s President and CEO, is a loss for all of Arizona. His leadership, mentorship, ability to unite us all and his friendship will be sorely missed. Those who knew him, worked alongside him, or simply heard him speak would all agree. His wife and children will be in our prayers. The Black Chamber of Arizona’s Board will make an announcement about our leadership in the coming weeks.” read the statement, Further details on the Chamber's leadership transition will be announced in the coming weeks, as the organization grapples with a significant change of its helm.
"His lasting legacy is empowerment of people... He was a connector that was all about putting people in the room together and he’s still doing it today as we’re gathering in his name, in his honor." Those wanting to learn more about Reed's journey and the community's response can find additional coverage at ABC15's business journal section.
