The NAACP has named the inaugural class of the Advancement List, a new national recognition initiative honoring exceptional Black leaders whose achievements, innovation, and influence are driving progress across industries and communities nationwide.
The honorees will be celebrated at a reception on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, held during the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s Annual Legislative Conference. The evening brings together leaders in business, technology, media, education, public service, advocacy, and the nonprofit sector to recognize individuals whose work exemplifies excellence and creates pathways for future generations.
“The Advancement List reflects the extraordinary breadth and depth of Black leadership across every sector of American life,” said Trovon Williams, Founder and Creator of the NAACP Advancement List and SVP of Marketing and Communications at the NAACP. “These honorees are excelling in their respective fields and are still making time to create opportunities for others all while helping build a more equitable future. We’re honored to recognize their accomplishments and the lasting impact they are making in Black communities all over the world.”
Launched by the NAACP, the Advancement List was created to spotlight professionals who are breaking barriers, expanding opportunity, and redefining what leadership looks like in corporate boardrooms, government agencies, creative industries, academic institutions, and communities across the country.
“The Advancement List celebrates more than professional achievement. It recognizes the vision, resilience, and impact of Black leaders who are transforming industries and opening doors for those who will follow,” said Derrick Johnson, NAACP President and CEO. “At a time when efforts to diminish diversity, equity, and inclusion persist, these honorees remind us that Black excellence continues to shape the future of this nation in profound and meaningful ways.”
Meet The Class Of 2026
Culture, Media, and Entertainment: Ashley Allison, Cheryl Polote-Williamson, Christina Glover Burnette, Dr. Stacii Jae Johnson, Jonathan Rabb, Josiah Price, Nikkolas Smith, Philip Lewis, Steve Jones, Tina Perry, Trell Thomas, and Zackory Kirk.
Education: Ashley Barron, Brandon Cahee, Dalbin Alexander Osorio, Daquanna Harrison, Diogenes Ayala, Dr. Diana Collins, Dr. Dwaun J. Warmack, Ivory A. Toldson, Ph.D., and Xavier Buck.
Entrepreneurship: Anthony E. Tuggle, Babette Bouvier Jones, Keith G. Pemberton II, and Lanny Smith.
Finance: Harold B. Pettigrew Jr.
Law: J. Machelle Sweeting.
Public Policy: Kenneth N. Wilson, Kristin McGuire, Sheley Secrest, and Victoria Watlington.
Science and Health: Derrick Lane, Jamaji Nwanaji-Enwerem, and Mauvareen Beverley.
Social Impact: Ashlei Elise, Chanceé Lundy, Danielle Marck, Deanna Hamilton, Domonique Hollins, Erin Harkey, Jerome Richardson, Jonica Armstrong, Kaci Patterson, LoLo Smith, Marquelle Turner-Gilchrist, Omari T. Evans, Tamieka Atkins, and Ty Boyea-Robinson.
Sports: Johnny Bailey and Keyeriah Miles.
Technology: Crystal Foote, Geanita Everett, Kenya T. Parham, Seneca Berniard Connor, and Toni Thai Sterrett.
For the full breakdown, including honoree bios and photos, visit the NAACP Advancement List.
The NAACP said the initiative reaffirms its commitment to advocacy, accountability, and recognition, ensuring that the brilliance, resilience, and contributions of Black leaders are visible, documented, and celebrated.
About NAACP
The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights of Black America. Our legacy is built on grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st-century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.
NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund, also referred to as the NAACP-LDF, was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.
