The Urban League of Hampton Roads Highlights the “Power of Words” at 41st Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Community Leaders’ Awards Dinner
Celebrating Hampton Roads visionaries through leadership and legacy on January 16, 2025
NORFOLK, VA (December 12, 2024) – Mark your calendars! On January 16, 2025, the Urban League of Hampton Roads, in partnership with Dollar Tree and Family Dollar, will present the 41st Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Community Leaders Awards Dinner. Taking place at the Virginia Beach Convention Center, this cherished event recognizes individuals whose contributions embody Dr. King’s enduring legacy of service, leadership, and empowerment.
Date: Thursday, January 16, 2025
Time: Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the event starts at 7 p.m.
Location: Virginia Beach Convention Center, 1000 19th St, Virginia Beach, 23451
“Our MLK Leaders Celebration recognizes leaders who have demonstrated a commitment in their work and lives to the ideals and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King,” said Gilbert Bland, President, and CEO of the Urban League of Hampton Roads.
This year’s theme, “The Power of Words,” emphasizes the transformative role of communication in inspiring change and fostering equity. “We are particularly excited to have Dr. Sarah Lewis, Harvard Professor and Author, as our Keynote Speaker,” Bland continues. Dr. Lewis’ work challenges audiences to reimagine the world through an inclusive lens, inspiring action for social justice. Emmy-nominated journalist and Coast Live Co-Host April Woodard will return as the event emcee, bringing her dynamic presence to guide the evening.
“We are also pleased to present our Lifetime Achievement Award to Norfolk’s own native son, Tim Reid, a highly accomplished entertainer and global ambassador.” Reid has used the power of storytelling to elevate underrepresented voices and champion community empowerment for decades. His lifelong dedication to advancing cultural narratives has left an indelible mark on the arts and beyond. Other esteemed honorees include Dr. Scott Miller, President of Virginia Wesleyan University; Victor Branch, Senior Vice President at Bank of America; Dr. Kenneth Alexander, Mayor of Norfolk; Donovan Duncan, Executive Vice President of Urban Strategies; Dr. Alfred Abuhamad, Dean of Eastern Virginia Medical School and Executive Vice President of Virginia Health Sciences at ODU; Jeremy Bridges, and President of Hampton Roads Shipping Association.
“We invite you to join us as we seek to inspire individuals to continue the work of Dr. King and to foster dialogue about how his teachings and vision apply to our lives today.”
Tickets and tables are available online at ulhr.org/mlk-awards. Guests will be served a dinner entrée.
Businesses and individuals interested in sponsorship opportunities can also visit ulhr.org/mlk-awards for details. Proceeds support the Urban League’s mission to foster social and economic equity across Hampton Roads.
About the Urban League of Hampton Roads
The Urban League is one of the oldest civil rights organizations in the country. Their mission is to secure economic equity, investment and civil rights for the Black community. The mission of the Urban League of Hampton Roads, Inc. (ULHR) is to enable African Americans and others to secure economic self-reliance, parity and power and civil rights. The ULHR implements its mission by providing services and programs in education, employment, health, and housing to Hampton Roads communities through direct services, advocacy, research, policy analysis, community mobilization and collaboration throughout communities. For more information, or to become a member, visit ulhr.org/membership.
The Urban League of Hampton Roads, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and contributions are tax deductible as defined by the Internal Revenue Code. EIN 54-1083985.