The Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Center (MLK Center), operated by Bayfront NATO, Inc., has announced the appointment of John Paul Robinson as its next Executive Director, effective July 13, 2026.
Robinson succeeds longtime Executive Director James Sherrod, who passed away in November 2025 after more than two decades of dedicated service to the organization and the Erie community.
As the Center prepares for this leadership transition, the Board of Directors also expressed gratitude to Marcus Atkinson, who has served as Interim Executive Director during the past six months.
Robinson brings nearly 10 years of progressive leadership experience spanning higher education, community engagement, organizational operations, and diversity, equity, belonging, and inclusion initiatives. His appointment marks a new chapter for one of Erie’s most historic community institutions.
In accepting the position, Robinson emphasized his commitment to advancing the Center’s mission and building on its long-standing impact in the community.
Robinson currently serves as Director for Institutional Compliance & Campus Belonging at John Carroll University, where he oversees the university’s Bias Reporting Process and provides training and education for faculty, staff, and students. In that role, he also leads compliance, access, and belonging initiatives designed to foster an inclusive campus environment.
Prior to joining John Carroll University, Robinson served as Vice President of Operations & Senior Diversity Officer for Potomac Hospitality Group, overseeing daily operations, strategic planning, and the company’s diversity, equity, belonging, and inclusion efforts. His earlier professional experience at Antioch College and the University of Tennessee at Martin further demonstrated his commitment to student success, community engagement, and organizational excellence.
Throughout his career, Robinson has been recognized for his leadership and service. His honors include the 40 Under 40 Emerging Legends Award, presented in 2025 by the Black Professional Association Charitable Foundation, as well as recognition connected to the Ohio Purple Star Designation for veteran services initiatives.
The MLK Center Board of Directors believes Robinson’s combination of leadership experience, community-centered vision, and commitment to belonging will help strengthen the organization’s impact throughout Erie.
As he prepares to take the helm, Robinson says his focus will be on expanding opportunities, deepening community partnerships, and ensuring the MLK Center remains a welcoming and empowering resource for generations to come.