Alumni from the Boys and Girls High School in Bed-Stuy came together on Tuesday night to honor their former principal who died 15 years ago.

Dr. Frank Mickens died on July 9, 2009, but his memories is still very much alive in Bed-Stuy.

“He represents for our generation with Martin Luther King and Malcolm X represented to that generation," said Vaughn Jefferson, one of Mickens' former students.

Many of the graduates from the classes of '88 to '04 lit candles and released balloons all in honor of their beloved principal.

“You knew that his intentions was to raise a productive student," said Claud McCammon, another graduate. "We had an understanding that he was an extension of our family.”

They also say he left a tremendous impact on their lives, calling him a lifelong mentor.

“Father figure, role model, all of the above," said Atiba Marson-Quinones. "He made it so that you felt safe wherever you went, just like a parent does.”

The students say they plan to carry on Mickens' legacy forever.