R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-77.1-1
There is established a black achievers commission to consist of thirteen (13) members: one of whom shall be designated chairperson and shall be appointed by the speaker of the house; one of whom shall be designated co-chairperson and shall be appointed by the president of the senate; and one of whom shall also be designated as co-chairperson and shall be appointed by the governor. The chairperson shall select four (4) persons to serve on the commission. Each co-chairperson shall select three (3) persons to serve on the commission. Those persons selected to serve on the commission shall be members of Rhode Island's professional business community.
The commission shall engage the participation and cooperation of Rhode Island's entire professional and business community. The commission shall establish, maintain, develop and promote cultural ties among members of the minority community and shall focus on encouraging minority youths to take special interest in educational, social, economic, and other growth in the community by providing educational and informational programs to minority youths. The commission shall also recognize as "black achievers" those individuals who merit recognition as black leaders in their community and/or profession. The commission members shall be appointed for terms of two (2) years each.
R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-77.1-1