Thank You & Congratulations to Julius

We are proud to share—and deeply grateful to celebrate—that Julius Boatwright has transitioned into the honorary role of Founder Emeritus of Steel Smiling, an Organization-in-Residence of Neighborhood Allies. This moment marks both a milestone and a continuation: honoring Julius’s visionary leadership in founding Steel Smiling and reinforcing the organization’s evolution under current leadership. 

As Founder Emeritus, Julius will remain connected to Steel Smiling as a trusted ambassador, advisor, and advocate. The honorary role is designed to celebrate his lasting contributions while supporting Steel Smiling’s growth and impact moving forward. Julius may represent the organization at select events, support relationship-building and fundraising efforts, offer historical perspective to leadership, and amplify Steel Smiling’s mission through storytelling and advocacy. 

“Through my close mentorship of Steel Smiling as an Organization-in-Residence, and having worked in partnership with Julius since the organization’s earliest beginnings, I have had a front-row seat to his courageous, values-driven leadership and deep passion for this work. He saw a gap that demanded action and built something enduring to meet it. This Founder Emeritus role honors that legacy while affirming the lasting influence he will continue to have and I am excited to see where his passions lead him next.” 

-Stephanie Miller, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Neighborhood Allies 

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Julius for a decade of courage, care, and commitment to bridging the gap between Black communities and mental health support. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition—and thank you for the legacy you continue to build alongside us. 

Related Updates 

• Introducing Steel Smiling’s New Managing Director 

• Steel Smiling Enters New Chapter with Leadership Transition (Nov)