The Bed-Stuy community gathered on Oct. 19 to honor the enduring legacy of Dr. Frank Mickens, the transformative former principal of Boys and Girls High School whose impact continues to inspire generations.
A newly unveiled mural on the outer wall of Ideal Food Basket at 830 Lafayette Ave. now stands as a vibrant tribute to his leadership and vision.
Spearheaded by community advocate Vaughn “Buddha Chief” Jefferson and brought to life by acclaimed artist Uncuttart, the artwork reimagines the original mural to depict Dr. Mickens presiding over an auditorium of graduating students, a powerful image of progress, mentorship and generational uplift.
The updated piece builds on the foundation laid by celebrated airbrush artist Kenya Lawton, also known as Art1, whose earlier tribute first transformed the corner of Lafayette Avenue and Marcus Garvey Boulevard into a site of community pride.
While honoring that legacy, the refreshed design reflects how Dr. Mickens’ influence continues to evolve across time and within the neighborhood he helped shape.
“For so many of us, the question is still ‘What would Frank Mickens do?’” Jefferson said. “We are coming together to answer that question with action. By uplifting the values he stood for, we keep his legacy alive in the streets that shaped us.”
The day-long celebration featured activities inspired by Dr. Mickens’ holistic approach to education, health and empowerment.
Highlights included Fitness for Business, connecting wellness to entrepreneurship; Health for Wealth, a culinary experience centered on nutrition and success; and Legacy Testimonials, a live reflections from alumni and community members.
Former Boys and Girls High School students also took part in an alumni mural signing, adding their names to the tribute.
During the event, Jefferson also introduced The C.U.R.E.-R.A.T.E.R. (Community Unification Resource Enterprise Revitalizing Awareness To Educate Righteousness), a new nonprofit dedicated to mental wellness, health equity and youth empowerment.
He also shared updates on a proposed street renaming in Dr. Mickens’ honor, currently before Brooklyn Community Board 3.
Rounding out the celebration, the 800 Lafayette Block Association hosted a neighborhood Sip & Stoop, inviting residents to decorate their stoops, share snacks and connect in the spirit of community pride.
The mural dedication and community gathering reaffirmed Dr. Mickens’ profound influence, not only as an educator, but as a visionary leader whose values of discipline, excellence and unity remain deeply woven into the fabric of Bed-Stuy.
