Michigan Chronicle Unveils Men of Excellence for 2025

News Summary

The Michigan Chronicle has announced its Men of Excellence list, recognizing exceptional Black leaders in Southeast Michigan. Honorees include Michael Aaron and Derrick Headd, among others, reflecting strong contributions across various fields. The upcoming awards banquet on June 27 aims to highlight these leaders’ efforts to advance the community and inspire future generations.

Detroit – The Michigan Chronicle has unveiled its Men of Excellence list for 2025, showcasing a distinguished group of Black leaders who are having a significant impact across Southeast Michigan. This initiative recognizes individuals whose leadership, legacy, and contributions are vital to sustaining the region’s vitality and progress.

The honorees come from a variety of fields, reflecting a comprehensive representation of the leadership present in the community. Among the 2025 honorees, notable leaders include:

• Michael Aaron, Business Manager and CEO of Local 1191, who represents organized labor in Detroit.
• Derrick Headd, Senior VP of Public Policy & Operations at the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation, focuses on community policy outcomes.
• Neil A. Barclay, President and CEO of The Wright Museum of African American History, is dedicated to storytelling that accurately represents Black history.
• Dwan Dandridge, CEO and Founder of Black Leaders Detroit, addresses funding gaps for Black entrepreneurs and advocates for ownership opportunities.
• Mamadou Diallo, CEO of Piston Group, leads a significant Black-owned business and supports infrastructure for economic empowerment.
• Ricky Fountain, Executive Director of the Community Education Commission, promotes educational access and reform for students.
• Dr. Michael Pieh and Dr. Norris Polk, notable healthcare leaders, are addressing disparities in medical care access in Detroit.

The Men of Excellence Awards Banquet is set for June 27 at 6:00 p.m. at the International Banquet and Conference Center, where honored individuals, families, and community leaders will convene to celebrate Black excellence and leadership. This banquet underscores the efforts to elevate and acknowledge the contributions of Black men within the community.

Additional honorees include Col. James F. Grady, II, who leads the Michigan State Police focusing on integrity and public safety; Jerlando F.L. Jackson, Ph.D., Dean of Education at Michigan State, who works to reform educational pathways; and Lazar Favors, CEO of the Detroit Black Film Festival, who shines a light on important Black narratives often overlooked.

The awardees span various sectors, including entrepreneurship, public policy, community service, and education, highlighting the diverse impact these leaders have in fostering growth and resilience in Southeast Michigan. Other leaders of note include Calvin Toone, who ensures inclusion of Black firms in development contracts; Khali Sweeny, who offers support to Detroit’s youth through his boxing gym; and Hon. Byron Nolen, the Mayor of Inkster, who emphasizes accountable leadership.

This recognition by the Michigan Chronicle serves to fortify the narrative of collective empowerment within the Black community, illustrating the importance of investing in Black leadership for the betterment of regional development and stability. Each of the honorees exemplifies a commitment to addressing challenges and promoting opportunities for future generations.

In summary, the Men of Excellence list is a celebration of the powerful influence and critical roles that Black leaders play in shaping the future of Southeast Michigan. The upcoming awards banquet will serve as a reminder of the essential work being done to uplift and inspire the community, ensuring that the region continues to thrive.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

University of Michigan President Santa Ono to Transition to Florida
HCA Healthcare Named Top Health Employer by Fortune
Antonio Gates Inducted into Pro Football Hall of Fame 2025
Michigan Colleges Rank Among Nation’s Best
RSM US LLP Named a Top Company to Work For in 2025
Microsoft Enhances Performance Management with New Policies
University of Detroit Mercy Launches Graduate Programs in Ethical Leadership
Detroit’s Business Education Program Earns National Recognition
WWT Ranks No. 10 on Fortune’s Best Companies to Work For in 2025
Encompass Health Announces Annual Stockholder Meeting

Additional Resources

• Michigan Chronicle: 2025 Men of Excellence Honorees
• Wikipedia: Leadership
• Michigan Chronicle: Black Excellence Ceremony
• Google Search: Black leadership in Michigan
• Detroit News: Central Michigan Basketball Coach Hire
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Community Service
• NFL Operations: Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Nominees