Each year, the Genesee District Library celebrates Black History Month by honoring community members for their good work in Greater Flint. Individuals or organizations can be nominated for the honor, and are then chosen by the GDL Black History Month Brunch Advisory Committee comprised of community members, and GDL staff and Board. Selected individuals receive the GDL Award of Excellence, and selected organizations receive the GDL Partner in Progress Award.
Attended by hundreds of community leaders, area political figures and community members, the 2025 event was themed “African Americans and Labor.” ABC 12 News Anchor Matt Franklin served as emcee and the keynote address was delivered by former Major League Baseball player and bestselling children’s book author, Chris Singleton. The program also featured a performance by local vocalist, Alina Oliver.
This year’s Award of Excellence recipients were Baba Kevin Collins, Flint Mayor Sheldon Neely and Pastor Dr. Rabon L. Turner, Sr. The Partner in Progress Award was given to the Floyd J. McCree Theatre.
