Mr. Ricky L. Hart, Chairman, 

Email: chm@sdchq.org

Mr. Ricky L. Hart, a native of Durham County, North Carolina, is dedicated to uplifting his community and fostering positive change, as seen through his journey from education, military service, and civil engagement. Ricky's educational path proceeded through Durham County's esteemed institutions where he graduated from Northern Durham High School in 1981 and pursued higher learning at Trinity University, earning both his Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts degrees. Ricky is a Cameron Grove Missionary Baptist Church member and served as a former member of the Pastor's Aid Committee. His military service in the U.S. Army Military Police Corp and his role as an Executive Security Detail Supervisor included being stationed across various U.S. and European military installations where Ricky’s leadership and professionalism earned him respect and admiration among his peers and superiors. He is a proud member of the International Free and Accepted Modern Mason Inc. and the Order of the Eastern Star. His commitment to Freemasonry spans decades of dedicated service which includes obtaining the most esteemed title of 33rd and last degree of masonry in July 2013. 

Ricky's civic engagement underscores his commitment to social justice, equality, and community empowerment. He has been involved in various civil organizations and advocacy groups such as being a lifelong member of The National Association of the 9th & 10th (Horse) Calvary Association and the N.C. Buffalo Soldiers Greater NC Chapter. His community involvement includes the Durham Branch NAACP, Durham Committee on the Affairs of Black People, Durham City Human Relations Committee, and serving as Board Chair of Lincoln Community Health Center. Ricky’s commitment to heritage and legacy is evident in his role as the Founder and Chairman of the Stagville Descendants Council, where he tirelessly works to preserve and honor the historical significance of his ancestral roots.