Alyssah Hall
The City of Riverside officially recognized the 90th birthday of civic champion and community leader Adrian “Dell” Roberts, with “Dell Roberts Day” on Aug. 25, 2026 in the Riverside City Council Chambers at City Hall.
Roberts has been a vital part of the Riverside community for decades, exhibiting unwavering commitment to civic engagement and community service. His contributions span several sectors, including an instrumental role with the Adrian Dell and Carmen Roberts Foundation; leadership as President of the Bordwell Park Advisory Board which honored him with the Dell Roberts gymnasium at Bordwell Park—the Board held a topping- off ceremony on Aug. 13, 2026.
Robert’s legacy also includes the annual Riverside Black History Parade, now in its 46th year; and dedication to diverse community initiatives that have improved the lives of Riverside residents.
The chamber room was filled to capacity and outside the Riverside City Hall building a line wrapped around it with a variety of community supporters hoping to get into the chamber to witness Dell’s recognition by the council.
When Dell started to give his speech he was welcomed with a standing ovation by everyone in the room.
“I don’t believe it…I give a special shout out to my wife Carmen, every time I get an award, that means she has work to do. But I want to thank everybody from the bottom of my heart. I’ve been in Riverside 81 years and I came here when I was nine years old. And I can truthfully say, unlike some others, I’ve never wanted to be any other place,” Roberts said.
“I love the city. I love the school system. I love everything about it. Not to say that the system is perfect by any means… I’m proud to be here. I’m proud to be a member. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. God bless you,” Roberts continued.
The celebration was a free public event that invited the entire community to join in honoring Robert’s significant contributions to Riverside. The event brought together an array of local, state and national elected officials, community leaders from education, faith-based organizations, civil rights advocacy, and business sectors. Roberts received honors and recognitions from the NAACP Riverside branch, California State Senator Sabrina Cervantes, State Assemblymember Corey Jackson, and Riverside County Supervisor Jose Medina.
“Adrian Dell Roberts, lifelong Riverside community leader, graduate of Poly High School, 1955. He’s distinguished himself as an athlete, swimming, football, and track. He’s dedicated himself to positively touching and transforming the lives of Riverside’s youth through his work, through the city parks and recs department, and through the school district,” said Dr. Regina Patton Stell president of the NAACP Riverside Chapter.
Patton Stell continued to list many of Roberts accolades including serving as an assistant principal, football coach, and establishing the Black Student Union at Riverside Polytechnic High School. Shel shared that after retiring from the Riverside Unified School district following 38 years of service, Roberts continued his commitment to students, families and adults in need.
“Mr. Roberts’ commitment in expanding the horizons of young people has provided Riverside youth with opportunities to experience places and possibilities beyond their immediate surroundings,” Stell said.
Carmen Roberts, Dell Robert’s wife, right hand and cofounder of the Adrian Dell & Carmen Roberts Foundation, shared that it was a pleasure to see her husband recognized by the City of Riverside. “We do work hard for this community and so it’s just an honor.” Carmen Roberts said.
First District Riverside County Supervisor Jose Medina met Roberts over 30 years ago when Medina was a new teacher at Riverside Polytechnic High School and felt that Roberts took him under his wing. He shared about his gratitude for his long-time friendship with Roberts as well as Roberts’ influence on current leaders like L.A. County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell.
“The history of Riverside and the history of Dell Roberts are so much interwoven. You can’t talk about the history of Riverside without talking about the history of Dell Roberts. It is vast and it is good. And if you have been fortunate to hear his stories, you know what I’m talking about,” Medina said.