Celebrating Black Excellence

Black excellence ball

Held on the last Saturday of February, the Black Excellence Ball is the premier Black History event on the Central Jersey Shore. This themed celebration honors the rich contributions of Black citizens in our community, highlighting local heroes and showcasing the diversity and excellence of individuals across various fields and areas of expertise. Join us for an unforgettable evening that celebrates the brilliance, culture, and achievements of Black excellence in our region. This year we are celebrating Mardi Gras style!

2025 Black Excellence Ball

Interested in becoming a sponsor? Want tickets to the event? Considering making a donation? Registration is now open!

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NOMINATE SOMEONE

Do you know a Black individual who deserves to be recognized for their outstanding contributions to our community? Use this form to nominate them for the Black Excellence Ball and explore the categories available for nominations. Don’t miss the chance to honor the heroes among us—nominations close on October 15.

Make a Nomination

Nomination categories

Community Builder Award - Honors an exceptional professional and/or volunteer whose commitment to community goes above and beyond their role in a paid position. This awardee has demonstrated a commitment to the betterment of the community they serve.

Faith Leader Award - Honors the leadership and spiritual uplift provided by an impactful and community oriented faith leader. This awardee acts as a role model, encouraging their congregants to take action in community and do their part to make the world a better place.

Business Leader Award - Celebrates ambitious visionaries who are leading thriving, dynamic businesses, modeling success and possibility for our community. Awarded to a business or entrepreneur that best exemplified innovation, incorporates community values into their business and has a commitment to the local community.

Lifetime Commitment Award - Honors an individual who has made an outstanding contribution and inspires others in their community by their dedication and passion for the Central Jersey Shore. Awarded to an individual who, over the past 15 years or more, has had a significant impact on the community and has improved the quality of life for youth and families.

Emerging Youth Leader Award - Recognizes an emerging young person aged 18 to 30 who has demonstrated leadership and commitment to community. This person may demonstrate leadership qualities such as mentorship or other forms of capacity building in their field of expertise, or is regarded as a role model by peers and youth in the community.

Change Maker Award - Celebrates an individual or organization that is creating real, meaningful change for children and families in our community. The Change Maker Award honors those who, by their commitment, vision, and leadership are making a tangible impact on the Central Jersey Shore.

Unsung Hero Award - Recognizes individuals or organizations who have positively influenced the community from behind the scenes -- those unlauded, unrecognized individuals who quietly make a difference. Unsung heros go above and beyond the definition of their role with no expectation of pay, praise, or recognition. We honor our unsung heros and raise them high to serve as beacons and sources of inspiration.

Youth Trailblazer Award - Celebrates youth under 18 who has demonstrated leadership and commitment to the community. This person/group may demonstrate leadership qualities, innovation, entrepreneurship, or other qualities that serve as an example to others.
Ally Award - Recognizes an individual or organization who offered significant and consistent support to the Black community. This individual/organization, through their work and words, have intentionally centered the needs of Black people in tangible ways. They have gone above and beyond to ensure equitable access to needed resources and support.