The prestigious GIANT Among Giants Award, recognizing exceptional individuals for a lifetime of leadership, public service and community impact, was presented to the Honorable Deborah L. Clanton and Mr. Richard Vernon Clanton during the 43rd Annual GIANT Awards ceremony held Saturday, Jan. 31 at DeVos Place. Richard Clanton was honored posthumously. The GIANT Among Giants Award is the highest honor bestowed by the GIANT Awards and recognizes recipients whose lifelong commitment to justice, equity and community empowerment has left a lasting legacy in Grand Rapids and beyond. Deborah Clanton has devoted more than three decades to advancing justice and equality within the criminal justice system. She serves in a dual role as magistrate and director of probation services for the 62nd B District Court of Kentwood and was sworn in as the city’s first magistrate in 1992. She was also the first African American magistrate appointed in the Greater Grand Rapids area. Clanton began her career in corrections in 1977 and has served in leadership, counseling and teaching roles throughout Michigan and Georgia. She holds a bachelor of science in criminal justice from Grand Valley State University and a master’s degree in public administration from Western Michigan University. In addition to her professional career, she has been a dedicated community advocate, particularly in advancing HIV/AIDS awareness and education, and has held leadership roles with numerous civic and nonprofit organizations. She previously received the GIANT Awards’ Floyd Skinner Justice Award in 2005. Beyond her work in the courts, Clanton is widely recognized for her long-standing advocacy for voting rights and civic engagement. A leader in nonpartisan voter registration, education and protection efforts, she has worked tirelessly to ensure access to the ballot, including during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through partnerships with community organizations, faith institutions and civil rights groups, Clanton has helped register voters, educate residents on their rights and protect the integrity of the voting process. She has often described voting as “the great equalizer,” emphasizing its power to amplify voices and drive meaningful change. Richard Clanton was remembered as a respected civic leader, mentor and public servant whose influence spanned business, government, faith and community development. A Detroit native, he earned a bachelor of science in socioeconomics from Oakland University and later completed an executive master of business administration. He spent 27 years in leadership roles with Sears before continuing his career as executive director of the former YMCA of Grand Rapids and later as CEO of the United Methodist Community House. Clanton also served the city of Kentwood in numerous elected and appointed roles, including city commissioner, mayor pro tem and, following the death of Mayor Richard Root, completion of the mayoral term. His leadership extended statewide through service with the Michigan Municipal League and the MIchigan Black Elected Officials. He was previously honored with the GIANT Awards’ Walter Coe Public Service Award in 2005. “Deborah and Richard Clanton exemplify what it means to be GIANTs among Giants,” said Tempy Mann, chair of the 43rd GIANT Awards. “Their lives reflect integrity, compassion and an unwavering commitment to public service. Their impact will continue to shape our community for generations.” Established in 1983 by Dr. Patricia Pulliam and Cedric Ward, the GIANT Awards pay tribute to notable African Americans who have made significant contributions to the betterment of society. Each of the 12 annual awards is named after a local “giant,” an individual of exceptional importance who shaped the legacy of Grand Rapids.  This year’s recipients were selected from more than 120 nominations and represent a wide range of leadership across humanitarian service, education, labor, business, faith, justice, medicine, public service, the arts and community advocacy. 2026 GIANT Award Recipients Kelsey Perdue – W.W. Plummer Humanitarian Award Johnny Walker – William Glenn Trailblazer Award Tanya Powell-May – Milo Brown Business Award Shana Lewis – Martha Reynolds Labor Award Kenyatta Hill-Hall – Hattie Beverly Education Award Belinda Cunningham – H.C. Toliver Religious Life Award Kimberley Williams – Floyd Skinner Justice Award Dr. Kathleen Jarrett – Eugene Browning Medical Service Award Lamar James – Ethel Coe Humanities Award Kenisha Dorsey – Walter Coe Public Service Award The Omega Scouts – Raymond Tardy Community Service Award Shanda Vaughn – Phyllis Scott Activist Award Proceeds from the GIANT Awards Banquet will benefit the Junior GIANT Scholarship Fund, which supports and empowers the next generation of leaders. The 2025 recipients are: Cedric Ward Leadership Scholarship Azaria Powell Randon Beasley, Jr. Dr. Patricia Pulliam Leadership Scholarship Dhani James