News Summary
The Michigan Chronicle recognized the achievements of the Black community in Southeast Michigan during the 2025 Men of Excellence ceremony. Celebrating distinguished individuals from various sectors, including business and education, the event emphasized the vital contributions of leaders such as Bishop Edgar Vann and George P. Barnes Jr. Lifetime Achievement Awards were awarded for substantial impacts in leadership, community service, and legal excellence. Other notable acknowledgments highlighted the importance of empowering the community and supporting Black entrepreneurship.
Detroit – The Michigan Chronicle celebrated the achievements of the Black community in Southeast Michigan at the 2025 Men of Excellence ceremony on June 27 at the International Banquet and Conference Center. The event spotlighted distinguished individuals from various sectors, including business, education, public service, and community engagement, emphasizing their contributions to the vitality and progress of the Black community.
This year’s ceremony honored a diverse group of leaders, including CEOs, educators, and public servants. Among the notable recipients were Bishop Edgar Vann, George P. Barnes Jr., and Conrad Mallett, who were awarded Lifetime Achievement Awards for their substantial impact through leadership and service.
Bishop Vann was acknowledged for his philosophy of selfless service, advocating for the importance of enriching the world rather than seeking personal gain. George P. Barnes Jr. received recognition for his pivotal role in shaping Detroit’s Black political framework and demonstrating exemplary leadership. Conrad Mallett was honored for his dedication to legal excellence and the promotion of integrity within the Black community.
Acknowledging Vanguard Leadership
The Vanguard Award was presented to Shawn Wilson, commending his efforts in corporate social responsibility and community development. Additionally, several key individuals were recognized for their efforts to empower working-class Black individuals and businesses. Michael Aaron, CEO of Local 1191, works tirelessly to advocate for better wages and dignity for Black workers. Derrick Headd, Senior Vice President at the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation, focuses on crafting policies designed to uplift Black enterprises.
Neil A. Barclay, President and CEO of The Wright Museum, contributes significantly to preserving and promoting Detroit’s rich cultural heritage. Lazar Favors, CEO of the Detroit Black Film Festival, uses his platform to enhance Black storytelling through media.
Supporting Community Engagement
Health and education were also focal points of the evening, showcased by healthcare leaders such as Dr. Michael Pieh and Dr. Norris Polk, who work to address healthcare disparities affecting the Black community. Educational leaders including Jerlando F.L. Jackson and Derrick Jones Lopez are actively reshaping academic pathways to foster greater success for Black students.
Business-upholding figures like Mamadou Diallo and Phares A. Noel II are paving the way for Black entrepreneurship and achieving corporate excellence. Civil servants, including local officials like Mayor Byron Nolen and Raymond A. Scott, exemplify effective public service that emphasizes accountability to the community.
The Ceremony’s Purpose and Impact
The evening also featured a reading of the Men of Excellence Creed by David Campbell, reinforcing the belief that values surpass titles. The ceremony served to instill pride and a sense of ownership among Black men in the community, celebrating their contributions and lasting impact.
This year’s distinguished class of honorees represents a dynamic and interconnected network of leadership that addresses local challenges while inspiring future generations. The event highlighted the importance of collaboration across sectors, with sponsors such as Local 1191, Vestco Management, Moulden Insurance Agency, and Corewell Health, contributing to systemic change within the community.
The Men of Excellence ceremony is a testament to the continuing narrative of Black excellence in Detroit, underscoring that the achievements of these honorees are integral to the fabric of the community and serve as a source of inspiration for once future leaders.
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Additional Resources
- Michigan Chronicle: 19th Men of Excellence Awards
- Click On Detroit: Men of Excellence Awards Celebrate Community Leaders
- Michigan Chronicle: 2025 Men of Excellence Honorees
- CBS News: March Against Violence
- Detroit News: Central Michigan Hires New Men’s Basketball Coach
- Wikipedia: Leadership
- Google Search: Black excellence
- Google Scholar: Community leadership
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Black community
- Google News: Local community leaders
