The City of Tampa Black History Committee, Inc. (COTBHC) will host the 37th Annual Black History Celebration today, February 17, at 11 a.m. inside the historic Tampa Theatre (711 North Franklin Street). This inspiring event is free and open to the public.
Under this year’s theme, “Trailblazers: Leading Change,” the celebration will spotlight nine remarkable individuals who have broken barriers and created lasting impact in their fields, from business and the arts to community advocacy and healthcare.
Tampa Mayor Jane Castor, joined by City Council members and City staff, will deliver remarks, alongside Bay News 9 Reporter Fadia Patterson, who will serve as Mistress of Ceremonies.
“Black history is American history, and the contributions of these local community leaders deserve to be celebrated,” said Mayor Jane Castor. “These individuals have changed lives, strengthened neighborhoods, and paved the way for future generations. It is an honor to recognize their work.”
This year’s nine honorees include:
- Antonio Brown – Central Station Barbershop & Grooming
- Erica Hardison – One Community Grocery Co-op
- Dr. Angela M. Hill, PharmD, CPh, RPh – USF Health Taneja College of Pharmacy
- Kehsi Iman – New Disabled South
- Arizona Jenkins – New Horizons Support Group
- Latonia Jones – Annie’s Assisted Living Facility & Top 2 Bottom Builders
- Vickie Oldham, M.F.A. – Sarasota African American Cultural Coalition, Inc.
- Jean-René Rinvil – Artist & Filmmaker
- Darrius Stallworth – City of Tampa Housing & Community Development
Attendees will experience powerful performances, including a jazz trio by whataboutmama (What-About-Mama), spoken word by poet Queen Jua (kween-WAA), and a dynamic presentation from Kuumba Dance & Drummers.
The keynote address will be delivered by Dr. Angela Hill, Professor and Associate Dean of Clinical Affairs at the USF Health Taneja College of Pharmacy. As a leading researcher in Alzheimer’s disease and neurological studies, Dr. Hill has been instrumental in increasing minority participation in medical research, ensuring more equitable access to groundbreaking healthcare advancements.
About the City of Tampa Black History Committee, Inc.¶
Since 1999, the City of Tampa Black History Committee, Inc. has awarded college and vocational scholarships to high school students across Hillsborough County and the Tampa Bay region, reinforcing its commitment to education, diversity, and the preservation of Black history. For more information about the City of Tampa Black History Celebration, visit www.cotbhc.org.
For additional information about the 37th Annual Black History Celebration, contact Shelisia Bradley, COTBHC Program Director, at 813-391-0271 or Shelisia.Jackson@tampagov.net.