The 43rd Annual GIANT Awards will be held on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026 at DeVos Place.
Dr. Patricia Pulliam and Cedric Ward in 1983 created this event to recognize African Americans who are exceptional leaders who have shaped the history, quality of life and the culture of our West Michigan communities. We stand on the shoulders of these giants and salute their accomplishments. We honor them and look to inspire others to follow in their steps and be the leaders of tomorrow.
Important Dates
- Aug. 1, 2025: Nominations open
- Oct. 6, 2025 at 11:59 p.m.: Nominations close
- Jan. 16, 2026: Ticket Sales / Sponsorships close
Tickets and Nominations
2026 Award Recipients
| Award | Recipient |
|---|---|
| Floyd Skinner Justice Award | Kimberley Williams |
| The Ethel Coe Humanities Award | Lamar James |
| The Eugene Browning Medical Service Award | Dr. Kathleen Jarrett |
| The H.C. Toliver Religious Life Award | Rev. Belinda Cunningham |
| The Hattie Beverly Education Award | Kenyatta Hill-Hall |
| The Martha Reynolds Labor Award | Shana Lewis-Washington |
| The Milo Brown Business Award | Tanya Powell-May |
| The Phyllis Scott Activist Award | Shanda Vaughn |
| The Raymond Tardy Community Service Award | Omega Scouts |
| The W.W. Plummer Humanitarian Award | Kelsey Perdue |
| The Walter Coe Public Service Award | Kenisha Dorsey |
| The William Glenn Trailblazer Award | Johnny Walker |
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