From the Publishers
of
BLACK MEETINGS & TOURISM
BLACK AMERICA 250
Legendary Treasures
AWARDS
HONORING A LEGACY, INSPIRING THE FUTURE
Central to Black America 250 and the commemoration of America’s
Semiquincentennial, is honoring those contemporary individuals, organizations, and institutions
across various fields and industries who have propelled the progress, growth, and
development of African Americans throughout the nation’s 250-year history;
Recognizing their contributions and paying homage to the resilience, ingenuity, and spirit of
excellence that have shaped our society with the prestigious accolade of Legendary Treasure.
Black America 250 will continue to honor and recognize our extraordinary
achievements. As we embark on this national historic commemoration, let us reaffirm
our commitment to honoring the past, celebrating the present, and shaping a future that
embodies the ideals of equality, justice, and opportunity for all. Together, let us ensure
that the legacy of Black America endures for another 250 years and beyond.
It is with great pleasure The Legendary Treasure Awards, formerly known as the
Living Legend Awards, honors the extraordinary achievements of the following honorees.
CIVIL RIGHTS LEGENDARY TREASURES HONOREES
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Benjamin Chavis Muhammad, a lifelong activist, author, and journalist, currently leads the National Newspaper Publishers Association, championing over 230 black newspapers as President and CEO. Former Executive Director of the NAACP 1993-1994 and National Director of The Million Man March 1995, his legacy inspires change.
Dr. Adrian Dove, longtime civil rights advocate and former White House staff member, serves as current CEO of the Kingdom Day Parade – Los Angeles. Spanning a career in economic development over 30 years across various government levels, he’s renowned for his innovative initiatives like the “Chitling I.Q. Test” and Philadelphia Job Plan, aimed to uplift minority communities.
LEGAL JUSTICE LEGENDARY TREASURE HONOREE
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Widely acclaimed public interest lawyer, Byran Stevenson has dedicated his career to helping the poor, the incarcerated, and the condemned. A professor of law at NYU and the founder and Executive Director of the Equal Justice Initiative, a human rights organization in Montgomery, Alabama, he champions anti-poverty and anti-discrimination efforts challenging inequality in America.
TRAVEL & TOURISM LEGENDARY TREASURE HONOREES
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Brenda Scott-Savage, a trailblazing leader, shattered barriers as the first African American woman to helm a Convention and Visitor Bureau in the U.S. She served as President and CEO of Visit Mobile CVB and Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Arlington CVB. Her visionary leadership transformed tourism landscapes, fostering inclusivity and innovation.
Roy Jay, an award-winning civic leader, business icon, and humanitarian, served as President of the Oregon Convention & Visitor Services Network and the African American Chamber of Commerce. A two-time Newsmaker of the Year, his legacy spans 40 years, marked by initiatives like Project Clean Slate, empowering people of color in convention and tourism.
Melvin Tennant, a pioneering leader, emerged as the first African American male President and CEO of a Convention and Visitor Bureau. His tenure marked a milestone in the tourism industry, championing diversity and
excellence. Now president and CEO of Meet Minneapolis, with visionary leadership, he redefines standards and empowers communities through tourism initiatives.
Denella Ri’Chard is the executive producer and host of the 2023 Telly Award-Winning nationally syndicated and globally streaming, television travel and culture series, Traveling with Denella Ri’Chard. A dynamic celebrity TV host, she brings passion and charisma to travel and tourism, exploring destinations and cultures, inspiring audiences worldwide.
LODGING & HOSPITALITY LEGENDARY TREASURE HONOREES
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R. Donahue Peebles, a prominent real estate developer and entrepreneur, is a trailblazer in lodging and hospitality. As the founder and CEO of The Peebles Corporation, he has built an impressive portfolio of luxury hotels and resorts worldwide. His innovative vision and commitment to excellence set the new standard of hospitality experiences globally.
Norman Jenkins, President and founder of Capstone Development. Prior to launching Capstone in 2009, Mr. Jenkins was a senior executive and corporate officer of Marriott International, Inc. During his 16-year tenure with Marriott, he served in a variety of leadership roles including: Senior Vice President, North American Lodging Development; Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Ramada International; Vice President, Owner & Franchise Services; and Acquisition.
T.V., MEDIA & ENT LEGENDARY TREASURE HONOREES
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Will Packer is a disruptive record-breaking filmmaker in Hollywood whose movies have grossed more than $1 billion worldwide. His extraordinary success spans film, television production, branded content and digital platforms that reach audiences around the globe amplifying diverse narratives and shaping entertainment culture for a new era.
Tyler Perry, a prolific filmmaker, playwright, and actor, is renowned for his groundbreaking contributions to entertainment. From creating iconic characters like Madea to founding Tyler Perry Studios and The Perry Foundation. He is a trailblazer who empowers diverse storytelling using his platform to uplift our voices and inspire audiences worldwide.
Oprah Winfrey, an iconic media mogul, philanthropist, and actress, transformed daytime television with her groundbreaking talk show. Born into poverty, she defied the odds to become one of the world’s most influential figures, advocating for education, equality, and empowerment. Her impact resonates globally through her storytelling and humanitarian efforts.
Byron Allen, a pioneering entrepreneur and media mogul, is the founder, chairman, and CEO of Entertainment Studios, a global media company. With a remarkable journey from stand-up comedy to media ownership, he champions diversity in entertainment, amplifying underrepresentedvoices through his television networks and production ventures.
Cathy Hughes, a vision forward media executive and entrepreneur, is the founder and chairperson of Urban One, the largest African-American-owned broadcasting company in the U.S. Her visionary leadership revolutionized urban radio and diversified media representation. A powerhouse advocate for social justice, she empowers marginalized communities through her platforms and philanthropy.
ENTERTAINMENT HONOREES
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Debbie Allen, a multifaceted artist and visionary, is an Emmy winning choreographer, actress, and director. Renowned for her role in producing “Amistad” she’s an innovator in dance and film. As a tireless advocate for diversity, she inspires generations, shaping the landscape of entertainment with her creativity and activism.
Berry Gordy, is an extraordinary entrepreneur whose impact resonates far beyond music, Berry Gordy is an icon whose influence has shaped the soundtrack of our lives. He is not just a music mogul; he’s a revolutionary. He founded Motown Records in the late 60’s creating a sound that bridged cultural divides, uplifted a generation, and propelled countless artists into the spotlight. His passion, vision, and tenacity have made him a national treasure.
PUBLIC HEALTH LEGENDARY TREASURE HONOREES
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Beverly Coleman is a dedicated public health advocate committed to improving community wellness. With a background as a licensed acupuncturist, herbalist and nutritionist, she spearheads initiatives promoting preventive care to resolve health problems via lifestyle changes and natural approaches. Through her leadership and avid research, she’s championed addressing health disparities for over 30 years.
Dr. Clara Reed, PhD, BA, RN, a dedicated healthcare professional and leader, is applauded for her contributions and commitment to public health. Founder and President of Mid-Delta Home Health, Hospice, and DME since 1978, she has strived to provide compassionate personalized care to patients and families in their homes.
MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKING LEGENDARY TREASURE HONOREES
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Dr. George Fraser, an esteemed entrepreneur and author, is renowned for his groundbreaking book “Success Runs in Our Race.” As the founder of FraserNet Inc., he empowers individuals through networking and business development. His transformative insights and leadership have inspired countless people worldwide to achieve greatness and foster economic empowerment within their communities.
Les Brown, a prolific speaker and author, is a titan in personal development and motivational speaking. With best-selling books like “Live Your Dreams” and “It’s Not Over Until You Win,” he’s inspired millions worldwide to reach their full potential. His infectious energy and expertise in business and entrepreneurship has transformed countless lives.
PUBLIC SERVICE LEGENDARY TREASURE HONOREES
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Kweisi Mfume, a respected leader and civil rights activist, is celebrated for his contributions to politics and social justice. As a former president of the NAACP and congressman, he has championed initiatives for equality and empowerment. His dedication to public service continues to inspire generations, shaping a more just society.
Diane Edith Watson, a distinguished leader and advocate, represented California’s 33rd congressional district from 2003 to 2011 and the 32nd District after winning a 2001 special election. Prior, she excelled as a psychologist, professor, and California Senator. Her legacy of public service spans decades in education, women’s rights, and fostering inclusive communities for all.
BUSINESS & FINANCE LEGENDARY TREASURE HONOREE
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John Hope Bryant, a visionary entrepreneur and philanthropist, is the founder and CEO of Operation HOPE, a global nonprofit dedicated to financial empowerment. In his best-selling book “The Memo” he empowers individuals with financial literacy and entrepreneurship skills. His mission-driven leadership transforms communities, fostering economic dignity and opportunity for all.
HISTORIAN LEGENDARY TREASURE HONOREE
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Candacy Taylor, a cultural documentarian and historian for National Geographic, illuminates overlooked aspects of American life through her work. Renowned for exploring “Taylor culture” she uncovers stories of marginalized communities, enriching our understanding of history and heritage. Her impactful research and storytelling redefine narratives and inspire cultural appreciation. Taylor is author of the Overground Railroad, a New York Times Notable Book, which explores the historic Green Book and Black travel in America.
JOURNALISM HONOREE
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Tony Brown, Author, filmmaker, broadcast journalist, civil rights advocate, and media educator, Tony Brown was known as “Television’s Civil Rights Crusader,”He was the host and executive producer of Black Journal (later renamed Tony Brown’s Journal). Airing for roughly 40 years, it became the longest-running public affairs series in PBS history. He served as the first founding dean of the School of Communications at Howard University in 1972. Later, in 2004, he became the founding dean of the Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications at Hampton University.