What a night! The FSC First Harlem Nights Annual Awards Gala was nothing short of spectacular—a high-energy celebration where timeless elegance met bold community impact. Inspired by the spirit of the Harlem Renaissance, the evening brought together visionaries, innovators, and changemakers who are shaping the economic future of our region.
Guests arrived in style—sequined gowns, satin gloves, sharp suits, and fedoras—ready to step into a world reminiscent of a 1930s speakeasy. After checking in, attendees walked down a dimly lit corridor and whispered a code word through a speakeasy grille to gain entry. That immersive detail set the tone for the evening: glamorous, confident, and steeped in intention.
The program was filled with powerful words and moving moments. FSC First Board Chair Shanton Kittler, Prince George’s County Acting County Executive Tara Jackson, and Deputy Chief Administrative Officer Angie Rodgers all delivered remarks that reinforced the County’s commitment to small business growth. FSC First President and CEO Dawn Medley also took the stage, sharing the vision for FSC First’s next chapter and recognizing the vital role that small business owners play in economic development.
The keynote address, delivered by economist Dr. Anirban Basu of Sage Policy Group, drew connections between the brilliance of the Harlem Renaissance and the economic energy surging through Prince George’s County today. And in a soulful tribute, Khadijah Z. Ali-Coleman, Ed.D, the County’s Poet Laureate, honored the moment with a Langston Hughes classic poem, “I Dream a World,” and a few hauntingly beautiful notes from “Afro Blue.”
Mistress of Ceremonies and WUSA9 News Anchor Allison Seymour guided us through an unforgettable awards presentation, spotlighting local leaders who are making waves:
• Visionary Leader Award – The Honorable Angela Alsobrooks, U.S. Senator
• President’s Award – Darla M. Garrett, Maryland Department of Commerce
• Champion Award – Pamela Scott, M&T Bank
• Level Up Partner Award – Will Holmes, Will Holmes Consulting
• Small Business of the Year Award – Brunson Cooper, Corenic Construction
• Technology Business of the Year Award – Vennard Wright, PerVista AI
• Woman-Owned Business of the Year Award – Cristina Tufts, Harbor Wines
• Minority-Owned Business of the Year Award – Iman Watson, The Lab 301
• Shelly Gross-Wade Award – Amina Hammond, HBCU Leggings
• Employee of the Year Award – James Johnson, FSC First, and semi-professional soccer player
To our honorees: your work inspires us. To our sponsors: your support made this night possible. To our guests: thank you for showing up in style and spirit.
View photos from the Gala here.
See the full Gala program here.
Here’s to continuing the legacy of excellence. We look forward to seeing you at next year’s annual meeting!
Thank you to our sponsors:
