Black Excellence Celebration 2026

Black Excellence is a movement—rooted in history, powered by brilliance, and driven by our responsibility to lead boldly.
About this Event

Join our 2nd Annual Black Excellence Celebration on Friday, October 2, 2026 at the AC Hotel in Worcester, MA from 6:30 PM - 10:30 PM.

Through recognition, advocacy, and empowerment, we strive to celebrate excellence while inspiring the next generation to lead with purpose and pride.

Honorees

We are proud to recognize three exceptional Black Excellence Leaders whose impact continues to transform lives:

Sean M. Harris, Director of Community Engagement, Quinsigamond Community College
A respected leader known for building meaningful partnerships, expanding opportunity, and creating pathways in education, workforce development, and community empowerment

Dr. Crista Johnson-Agbakwu, Physician, Professor, and Health Equity Leader, UMass Chan Medical School & UMass Memorial Health
A nationally recognized obstetrician-gynecologist dedicated to advancing reproductive health, culturally responsive care, and equitable access for women and migrant communities.

Deputy Fire Chief William Mosley, Worcester Fire Department
A visionary public safety leader with over two decades of service, recognized for operational excellence, mentorship, advancing firefighter readiness, and breaking barriers as IAFF Local 1009’s first president of color.

In addition, our keynote speaker will be Mass Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell, with a special musical performance by Angelo Gray and other special guests. We are honored to welcome back our inaugural honorees, Worcester's own YWCA CEO Deb Hall and YMCA President & CEO David Connell, who will present the awards to this year's Honoring Black Excellence honorees.

We believe this evening will not only celebrate excellence but also inspire continued leadership, connection, and impact across our community.

When we celebrate Black excellence, we celebrate the strength, resilience, and achievements that make our entire community stronger. When one of us rises, we all rise.

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Legacy Champion Sponsors - we are truly grateful for your generosity supporting our mission.