Melvin Watkins is a founding member of the Afro-American Historical Association of the Niagara Frontier, inc.  (AAHANF), and has been an invaluable asset to the Association. He played an instrumental role in assisting the Association in obtaining its charter from New York state.  Since that time, he has served in all Executive positions: second vice president, First vice president, President, and currently Treasurer. Watkins is proud to have been named The first Managing Editor of the journal ‘Afro-Americans in New York Life and History’, The journal was started by the five charter members of the Association. The journal seeks to Engage community and scholarly perspectives on the African American experience, past and present, especially as it pertains to New York State. The journal publishes research articles that examine developments in African America, Africana, Diaspora, and Black Studies. To recognize his tireless dedication and service in many capacities, the Association presented Watkins with the “William Wells Brown”  Award for Outstanding Service & Leadership. HeIs a veteran of the United States Air Force and served honorably for four years receiving an Honorable Discharge. After the military, he started on a path to complete his education. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Management from the  University of Buffalo. A Master of Science degree with a concentration in Information and Library Science completed his advanced studies at the University of Buffalo. He then started a career in management at the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library. Besides being a continuous officer in the AAHANF, he is also part of the Western New York Urban Artists and the Buffalo Branch of the NAACP. He has many other civic activities, and his service has earned him many awards. His service on many community boards earned him a reputation for hard work. This passion for hard work has followed him in service to the civic area. He has served as the campaign manager for several winning local elections. He has been a part committeeman for years. He is known to speak out for the underserved. Most likely a few people will come to him and ask “What Can We Do?”. “That” is where and when he is most likely to be of help!