Continuing the Quest for History Untold!
Kannapolis African-American Museum & Cultural Center
11th Anniversary & Hall of Fame Inductions: Class of 2024
We are thrilled to invite you to a remarkable evening of celebration, inspiration, and community at the Kannapolis African-American Museum and Cultural Center's (KAA-MaCC) 11th Anniversary and Hall of Fame Inductions. Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 5, 2024, at 5 p.m., as we gather at The Laureate Center in downtown Kannapolis, NC, to honor seven extraordinary African-American women for their lifetime achievements and to support KAA-MaCC’s Vision 2026 Initiative.
WHY YOU SHOULD ATTEND
This year, KAA-MaCC has declared 2024 as the Year of the Woman in Cabarrus and Rowan County, themed: "Empowering Excellence: Honoring Trailblazing Women and Inspiring Future Generations." In line with this theme, our Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will recognize and celebrate the exceptional contributions of seven women whose lives and legacies have profoundly impacted our community.
HONOREES
- Dr. Catrelia Steele Hunter (Cleveland, Rowan County)
- Dr. Mary Strawder Ponds (Granite Quarry, Rowan County)
- Mrs. Alice Steele-Robinson (Concord, Cabarrus County)
- Mrs. Betty Evans Eddleman (Posthumous, Concord, Cabarrus County)
- Mrs. Elizabeth Duncan Koontz (Posthumous, Salisbury, Rowan County)
- Mrs. Ruth McIlwain Curry (Posthumous, Kannapolis, Cabarrus County)
- Mrs. Mary Ellen Phifer-Kirton (Posthumous, Kannapolis, Cabarrus County)
THE CAUSE
The KAA-MaCC Vision 2026 Initiative is a bold plan to establish a permanent home for the museum and cultural center and expand our educational programs. Our mission is to preserve and share the rich history and culture of African-Americans in Cabarrus and Rowan counties. Your support will impact the sustainability and growth of KAA-MaCC; directly contribute to operational costs; and the development of impactful programs that benefit our neighboring communities.
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
Our event promises an evening filled with inspiration, celebration, and community. Here’s what you can expect:
- Silent Auction: Bid on unique items and experiences while supporting our cause.
- Dinner: Enjoy a delicious three-course meal as we gather to celebrate.
- Live Entertainment: Experience performances that reflect our vibrant cultural heritage.
- Keynote Address: Hear from a distinguished speaker who will inspire and motivate.
- Awards Presentation: Witness the honoring of seven exceptional women who have significantly contributed to our community.
WHY YOUR SUPPORT MATTERS
By attending, donating, or sponsoring, you are playing a vital role in helping KAA-MaCC achieve its Vision 2026 Initiative goals. Your contributions will:
- Sustain Daily Operations: Ensure the museum can continue its important work without a permanent building.
- Expand Educational Programs: Help us implement new initiatives that educate and inspire future generations.
- Preserve. Cultural Heritage: Aid in the preservation of African-American history and culture in our community.
- Help Build Community: Supporting a cultural center that fosters understanding, pride, and unity.
Let's empower excellence and celebrate the achievements that inspire future generations. We look forward to welcoming you on October 5, 2024! By participating in our 11th Anniversary and Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, you align with our mission to preserve and promote African-American culture and history in Cabarrus and Rowan counties.
Together, we can empower excellence, inspire future generations, and make a lasting impact.
#EmpowerExcellence2024
Meet our Mistress of Ceremonies and Keynote Speaker
The Year of the Woman
KAA-MaCC has declared 2024 as "The Year of the Woman!" This momentous 11th Anniversary and Hall of Fame Inductions will celebrate the incredible achievements of seven trailblazing African-American women from Cabarrus and Rowan Counties. As we honor these exceptional leaders for their significant contributions to education, civil rights, and community service, "The Year of the Woman" underscores the powerful legacy of these honorees and their enduring impact on future generations. Join us for an evening of inspiration and empowerment as we celebrate the strength, resilience, and excellence of these remarkable women.
Our Mistress of Ceremonies
We are thrilled to announce that Shevaun Bryan, the dynamic WBTV-3 Anchor, will be the Mistress of Ceremonies for our 11th Anniversary and Hall of Fame Inductions, a pinnacle event celebrating the 2024 Year of the Woman, using the theme "Empowering Excellence: Honoring Trailblazing Women and Inspiring Future Generations."
Shevaun, who joined WBTV in 2022, brings her award-winning journalism and passion for the Queen City to our event. She anchors WBTV's 4 p.m., 6 p.m., and 11 p.m. newscasts. With roots in Miami and a proud Jamaican heritage, she's not just a news anchor, but a true community advocate.
When she is not on camera, Shevaun can be found exploring Charlotte, at car shows, sporting events, working out, cooking Jamaican food, or traveling.
Join us as she leads an unforgettable celebration!
Facebook: WBTV News | X: WBTV_News | Instagram: wbtv_news
Our Keynote Speaker
We are excited to share that Angellica S. Sweat is the keynote speaker for our 11th Anniversary & Hall of Fame Inductions. We welcome Angellica, the Program Coordinator for the Institute for Youth Ministry at Princeton Theological Seminary, as we honor pioneering women and motivate future generations on October 5th.
Angellica is a North Carolina native, dedicated to curating safe spaces for transformative leadership at the intersections of theology, pastoral care, and culture. As a womanist and licensed conference evangelist in The A.M.E. Zion Church, Angellica is a lifelong learner and advocate for humanity. She is committed to extending the reach of sacred proclamation beyond the academy and religious institutions through a ministry of care, and an ethic of love. Angellica brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to our event.
Carl D. Ratliff, Saxophonist & Music Educator
#RatJazz
Carl D. Ratliff, a talented saxophonist and dedicated CMS Music Educator, began his musical journey at home, learning kid songs from his parents. His passion for music grew as a member of his church's children’s choir, and he eagerly joined band in sixth grade, choosing the alto saxophone after hearing it on the radio. Carl’s talent and dedication earned him spots in junior and senior high school bands, as well as the Southeastern District Bands and NC Honors Band. Enriched by experiences at Winthrop College's Summer Band Camp and the Southern Piedmont Education Consortium at Pfeiffer College, Carl pursued music at Winthrop University, performing with the symphonic band, jazz ensemble, and "Winthrop Singers." He also taught at the Winthrop Academy of the Arts and became a member of the SC All-College Jazz Ensemble. Carl holds both a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts in Teaching, and continues to inspire young musicians today.
Souvenir Journal
Ad Solicitation
Anniversary Supporter Sponsor
Anniversary Supporter Sponsor
KAA-MaCC now has for availability the "The Year of the Woman" Souvenir Journal, which will commemorate our 11th Anniversary and Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. This special edition will celebrate the achievements of our 2024 honorees and offer a unique opportunity for businesses, organizations, and individuals to place ads in support of these remarkable women.
Anniversary Supporter Sponsorships are available (cover ads, full-half-quarter-business pages to patron listing).
Anniversary Supporter Sponsor
Anniversary Supporter Sponsor
Anniversary Supporter Sponsor
The deadline for ad submissions is September 20, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. Please note that all ads must adhere to the mandatory ad specifications and preparation guidelines provided. Detailed information on ad submission, including file formats and resolution requirements, is also included.
We encourage you to secure your spot in this memorable publication. Should you have any questions or need further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Thanks for your support!
Sponsorships & Tickets
Sponsorships
KAA-MaCC invites you to become a valued partner in our 11th Anniversary & Hall of Fame Inductions Ceremony, a pinnacle event celebrating the 2024 Year of the Woman. This year, under the theme "Empowering Excellence: Honoring Trailblazing Women and Inspiring Future Generations," we will recognize seven extraordinary women whose contributions have profoundly impacted Cabarrus and Rowan Counties.
By sponsoring this prestigious event, you not only align your brand with a cause that uplifts our community but also support KAA-MaCC's Vision 2026 Initiative—a bold plan to establish a permanent home for our museum and expand our educational programs. Your sponsorship will help preserve the rich history and culture of African-Americans in our region while empowering the next generation to carry the torch of excellence.
Join us in making a lasting impact. Together, we can empower excellence, honor legacies, and inspire the future.
Tickets
Secure your ticket today for $100 or reserve a table for 10 at $1,000 to experience a night of elegance, inspiration, and community. Enjoy a gourmet dinner, live entertainment, and the opportunity to support KAA-MaCC’s Vision 2026 Initiative. Your participation helps preserve African-American culture and history while empowering future generations.
Don’t miss this unforgettable celebration—purchase your tickets or table now and be part of a legacy that empowers excellence and inspires tomorrow.
GET INVOLVED:
Your support is not just a donation; it's an investment in our shared heritage and future. Email us at info@kaa-macc.org for more details and to secure your place at this landmark event.
KAA-MaCC Hall of Fame
Purpose
The purpose of the Kannapolis African-American Museum and Cultural Center Hall of Fame is to recognize and honor African-American individuals from Cabarrus and Rowan County, North Carolina who excell in their respective roles and who helped to bring honor, recognition, distinction, and excellence to their gift/talent. Recognition of individuals in the KAA-MaCC Hall of Fame will help maintain the spirit, pride, and sense of community as well as serve as a historical account of the African-American presence in Cabarrus and Rowan County, NC.
A hall of fame will be constructed in a display case in the main foyer in the museum. All awardees, selected for induction into the KAA-MaCC Hall of Fame, will have a golden plate placed on a plaque in the display case with their name, category of award, and city/neighborhood where they live(d) or work(ed).
Legacy Hall of Fame
The Celebrity Hall of Fame category recognizes individuals from or have roots in Cabarrus and Rowan County and have attained celebrity status in their chosen careers. These are individuals who are deemed very important and have name recognition.
Lifetime Achievement Award
In the category of LIfetime Achievement, an award is presented to individuals recognized for their gift/talent and leadership in communities throughout Cabarrus and Rowan County, NC.
Nomination Criteria
Residents, former residents, family members and/or kindred are eligible for nomination after their contribution was made to the African-American community in Cabarrus and Rowan County, NC and/or other locations of residence. They must be in good standing in the community where they live as determined by the Board of Directors.
Such individual or institution (i.e., trailblazers) must have contributed a memorable impact on said community or in their career. Among the accomplishments taken into account will be individual (neighborhood, city, state, or national), professional achievement, educational with school impact (team accomplishments, individual school), institutional contribution/ achievement, and have a positive impact on the community-at-large during their era and accomplishments thereafter.
The nomination is also open to businesses and/or churches that must have served with distinction and/or made significant contributions to African-American communities, as evidenced, for example, by the success of their administration and the acknowledgment of the same.
Community Events
Join us for our community events, where we come together to celebrate our shared human experience. From cultural festivals to charity fundraisers, our events are a reflection of the diversity and beauty of our community.
Support KAA-MaCC Hall of Fame
As a nonprofit organization, we rely on the support of our community to continue our mission. Donate today to help us continue to promote cultural understanding and appreciation.
10th Anniversary and Hall of Fame Inductions - Class of 2023
Bishop Richard K. Thompson (Posthumously)
Bishop Richard K. Thompson (Posthumously)
Bishop Richard K. Thompson (Posthumously)
Lifetime Achievement Award
Executive Religious Leader and Human Rights Advocate
Bishop Louis Hunter, Sr. (Posthumously)
Bishop Richard K. Thompson (Posthumously)
Bishop Richard K. Thompson (Posthumously)
Lifetime Achievement Award
Executive Religious Leader
Mr. Charles A. Cannon (Posthumously)
Bishop Richard K. Thompson (Posthumously)
Mr. Charles A. Cannon (Posthumously)
Legacy Hall of Fame
Business Executive and Pioneer with a Heart for People
Judge Jerry W. Blackwell
Mr. Kenneth B. Geathers, Sr.
Mr. Charles A. Cannon (Posthumously)
Lifetime Achievement Award
A Change Maker for Peace and Justice
Dr. Norma H. Sermon-Boyd
Mr. Kenneth B. Geathers, Sr.
Mr. Kenneth B. Geathers, Sr.
Lifetime Achievement Award
Trailblazer, Educator, and Civic Leader
Mr. Kenneth B. Geathers, Sr.
Mr. Kenneth B. Geathers, Sr.
Mr. Kenneth B. Geathers, Sr.
Lifetime Achievement Award
A Social and Political Advocate
Mr. Eugene Donaldson (Posthumously)
Mr. Eugene Donaldson (Posthumously)
Mr. Eugene Donaldson (Posthumously)
Lifetime Achievement Award
Celebrated Artist, Painter, and Expressionist
KAA-MaCC Hall of Fame Inductees: 2023-2015
Class of 2023
Class of 2023
Class of 2023
(L-R) Bishop Richard K. Thompson, Bishop Louis Hunter, Sr., Judge Jerry W. Blackwell, Mr. Charles A. Cannon, Dr. Norma H. Sermon-Boyd, Mr. Kenneth B. Geathers, Sr., Mr. Eugene Donaldson
Class of 2022
Class of 2023
Class of 2023
(L-R) Row-1: Mr. John Black, Jr., Mr. Ernest Gene Brown, Sr.; Row-2: Mrs. Willie Jean Boyd Kennedy, Dr. Willie A. Deese, Mrs. Ella Mae P. Small
Class of 2021
Class of 2023
Class of 2021
(L-R) Mrs. Betty Alston, Mr. Leonard C. Hill, Mrs. Geneva Johnson
Class of 2019
Class of 2019
Class of 2021
(L-R) Mrs. Wilma Steepleton Lindsay, Mr. William T. "Jimmy" Murphey, Dr. Katie G. Cannon, Mrs. Shirley O. Galimore
Class of 2018
Class of 2019
Class of 2018
(L-R) Maestro Travis Alexander, Dr. Barbara Wesley Baker, Mr. Warren Clay Coleman, Mrs. Bettye Sue McConnaughey McLaurin, Mr. Stephen Leroy Shipp
Class of 2017
Class of 2019
Class of 2018
(L-R) Dr. Levi Alexander Gibson, Mr. Walter Lee Richardson, Sr., Ms. Rosella Ethelbert Caldwell, Mr. Clarence Eugene Caldwell, Ms. Kristina L. Roberts "Zane"
Class of 2016
Class of 2016
Class of 2016
(L-R) Mr. Curl Caesar "C.C." Griffin, Mr. George Clifton Knox, Mr. Milton Lee Taylor, Mr. John R. Thompson
Class of 2015
Class of 2016
Class of 2016
(L-R) Mr. Emanuel Stowe, Mrs. Hannah Tolbert Reid Bingham, Mr. William Lee Reid, Sr.
Call for Nominations: Celebrating First Ladies
The KAA-MaCC is excited to announce a special Call for Nominations for First Ladies of African-American Churches in Cabarrus and Rowan counties. These remarkable women will be honored in the premiere edition of the "Who’s Who in Cabarrus-Rowan (Cab-Row) Magazine. Deadline: September 30, 2024