(SPARROWS POINT, MD — May 3, 2026) — A powerful cross-section of leadership, legacy, and community impact will take center stage as Black Wall Street SPARROWS POINT returns to Baltimore County on May 9, honoring a distinguished group of trailblazers whose work continues to shape the region and beyond.
Set against the backdrop of the historic Pleasant Yacht Club—Baltimore’s only Black-owned yacht club—the event will celebrate individuals across business, public service, faith, entertainment, and grassroots leadership.
This year’s honorees include:
- Jade Johnson
- Servant Courtney Speed
- Arkia Wade
- Betty Watkins
- Kevin Clash
- Ronnie Lacks
- Chief Louis Winston
- Gloria Nelson
- Johnny Mathis
- Bishop Dr. Heber Brown
- Dr. William Porter
- Michael Hancock
- Robert McCullough
- Congressman Kweisi Mfume
- Freddie Oliver
From nationally recognized figures to hometown heroes, each honoree represents a unique thread in the fabric of Black excellence—demonstrating resilience, innovation, and a deep commitment to community uplift.
Among them is Congressman Kweisi Mfume, whose decades-long career in public service—from leading the NAACP to representing Maryland in Congress—has positioned him as one of the nation’s most influential voices on equity and justice.
Also being recognized is Kevin Clash, the internationally acclaimed puppeteer and creative force behind beloved cultural icons, as well as Bishop Dr. Heber Brown, a transformative faith leader known for advancing food justice and community empowerment initiatives in Baltimore.
Chief Louis Winston, a respected leader in fire and rescue services, joins the ranks of honorees whose work ensures safety and resilience across the region, while Ronnie Lacks continues the legacy connected to one of the most significant stories in modern medical history.
The Black Wall Street SPARROWS POINT series has become a signature platform for recognizing excellence—lifting up entrepreneurs, leaders, and change agents whose contributions are often overlooked by mainstream institutions.
More than an awards ceremony, the event is a celebration of legacy, a networking hub for emerging and established leaders, and a reminder of the power of community-driven recognition.
On May 9, that spirit will once again be on full display at Sparrows Point—where history, culture, and excellence converge.
RSVP: BlackWallStreetSPARROWSPOINT.eventbrite.com
