Remembering Redenia

I would be remiss if I didn’t take this opportunity to pay tribute to Redenia Gilliam-Mosee, who died on New Year’s Day. Redenia was a pioneer, a leader, a dedicated volunteer and a special member of the Atlantic City community.

Redenia was a long-time member of the Board of Directors of the Greater Atlantic City Chamber and in 1990 became the first woman to serve as its Board chairperson. At a very young age she began working as a chambermaid in Atlantic City. However, her thirst for knowledge and strong work ethic propelled Redenia to eventually become a senior executive with Bally’s.

During her long tenure with Bally’s she championed numerous projects that made Atlantic City a better place to live and to work, including a $3 million upgrade for the Boys and Girls Club of A.C., which doubled its capacity when the new facility opened. She was also a driving force behind such casino-sponsored housing projects as Jacobs Family Terrace and HOPE (Homeownership Opportunities for Performing Employees).

Redenia’s volunteer work in the community was legendary. Two non-profit organizations were particularly close to her heart. She was President of the Boys and Girls Club of Atlantic City for nearly 20 years and the long-time Board chairperson for the LPGA Urban Youth Golf Program of Greater Atlantic City, which later became The First Tee Program of Greater Atlantic City.

She loved Atlantic City and had a deep passion and commitment for improving the lives of young people in and around Atlantic City. She touched the lives of so many people in this community. Only 60 years young at the time of her death, she is gone far too soon, but her legacy is a proud one, and she will be remembered fondly by all of us.

In a fitting tribute to Redenia, the Chamber will rename its annual Businesswoman of the Year Award in her honor. Henceforth, it will be known as the Redenia Gilliam-Mosee Businesswoman of the Year Award.

Kenneth J. Calemmo, Jr., Chairman
Greater Atlantic City Chamber

Photo by Alex Anton, Anton Images