The 10th Annual African American Leadership Awards ceremony recently illuminated the city, celebrating a decade of remarkable achievements and leadership contributions from African Americans in diverse fields. Hosted at the illustrious Detroit Institute of Arts Museum, this event has grown to be an emblematic gathering that recognizes and salutes outstanding individuals who have made significant impacts on the community. As we commemorate this milestone, let’s take a closer look at the event, its history, and the exceptional awardees of the night.
A Decade of Recognition
For ten years, the African American Leadership Awards have served as a platform to honor those who have not only excelled in their respective domains but have also been instrumental in shaping the future of Detroit and the state of Michigan. This event has evolved significantly since its inception, and this year’s ceremony was a testament to its growth and significance.
The Awards and Their Winners
The 10th Annual African American Leadership Awards featured a distinguished list of awardees from various fields, all recognized for their exceptional contributions. Here is a glimpse of the winners and the categories they were celebrated in:
- Black Athlete of the Year: Attorney Godfrey Dillard and Fred Hunter
- Robyn Barclay Woman in Leadership Award: Laura Dickerson, UAW Region 1A President (1st Black woman to hold position)
- Bob Millender Political Strategist of The Year: Sam Riddle
- Leadership in Education Award: Angelique Peterson Mayberry, DPSCD School Board President, and Roy Bishop, Jr.
- Leadership & Legacy Lifetime Achievement Award: Rev. Jim Holley and poet Jessica Care Moore
- Judge Deborah Thomas Social Justice Advocate Award: Attorney Michael Fortner
- Bruce Feaster Staffer of the Year: Gregory Humphries and Dr. Shinese Ward Johnson
- Labor Leader of the Year: Dana Harris and Andrea Hunter
- Emerging Leader of the Year: Latanya Gater
- John Conyers Legislator of the Year: Detroit City Councilman Coleman A. Young
- Black Mayor of The Year: Benton Harbor Mayor Marcus Muhammad
- Annette Rainwater Grassroots Organizer of the Year: Soummer Moore Crawford and Michael Joseph – President of CBTU
- People’s Champion of the Year: Jamiel Martin and Andrea Thompson
- Issac Robinson Dignity & Leadership: Shaney Whittiker
- Dorothy Patterson Purple Heart Leadership: Akindele Akinyemi
- One to Watch Award: Chasity Youngblood
- Veterans Leadership Award: Wayne County Commissioner Monique Baker McCormick
- Art Featherstone Precinct Delegate Award: Tonjia Ray, Pamela Wilson Travis, and Chantel Watkins
- African American Community Icon Award: Caryl Conway, Stevetta Johnson, Regina Randall, and Pamela Powell
- Sophie Womack Quality of Life & Leadership Award: Lakia Wilson – Lumpkins
Each of these awardees has left an indelible mark on their respective fields and has contributed significantly to the betterment of Detroit and its community.
The 10th Annual African American Leadership Awards ceremony at the Detroit Institute of Arts Museum was not merely an event; it was a celebration of resilience, achievement, and unity. Over the past decade, this event has grown to be a symbol of recognition and inspiration, bringing together leaders, activists, and community members from all walks of life. As Detroit continues to evolve, the legacy of these African American leaders serves as a guiding light, inspiring future generations to dream big and make a difference.
The success and continuity of this event would not be possible without the support of dedicated organizations and individuals. Lear Corporation, Laborers Local 1191, Detroit International Bridge Co., Diggs Group, Rickman Enterprises, and many others have come together to ensure that the African American Leadership Awards Ceremony remains an inspiring and uplifting experience. These organizations recognize the importance of acknowledging the accomplishments of African Americans, both in the present and the past, and continue to play a crucial role in sustaining this tradition.
About Post Author
