12/10/24
An entrepreneur, a sex trafficking survivor and a pastor are among those receiving honors at the 2025 GIANT Awards.
Established in 1983 by Dr. Patricia Pulliam and Cedric Ward, the GIANT Awards pay tribute to notable African Americans who have made significant contributions to the betterment of society. Each of the 12 annual awards is named after a local “giant,” individuals of exceptional importance who shaped the legacy of Grand Rapids. The recipients of the 2025 GIANT Awards were selected for their commitment to advancing the spirit of equality, justice and community progress.
The prestigious "GIANT Among GIANTS" award will also be presented to a recipient chosen for their extraordinary leadership and commitment to the community. That name will be revealed during the 42nd GIANT Awards ceremony which takes place on Feb. 1, 2025 at the DeVos Place. Sponsorship and ticket information can be found online.
Proceeds from the GIANT Awards Banquet will benefit the Junior GIANT Scholarship, which empower the next generation of leaders.
2025 GIANT Award Recipients
- Enid Gaddis – W.W. Plummer Humanitarian Award
A tireless advocate for equity and inclusion, Enid Gaddis has brought transformative leadership to Arbor Circle and is dedicated to creating opportunities for others. - Doyle Hayes – William Glenn Trailblazer Award
Doyle Hayes has spent over 20 years shaping the future of students, especially young professionals of color, guiding them to executive leadership roles. - Jessica Ann Tyson & Monica Sparks – Milo M. Brown Business Award
Sisters Jessica and Monica have dedicated their careers to empowering marginalized voices, serving as champions for community development and economic opportunity. - Katrina Springer-Terry – Martha Reynolds Labor Award
Katrina Springer-Terry has spent over 30 years working in union leadership, advocating for inclusion and diversity in the workplace. - Chester Huff – Hattie Beverly Education Award
Chester Huff’s decades-long dedication to education and his mentorship have had a lasting impact on generations of students in Grand Rapids. - Rev. Dr. Daniel Smith – H.C. Toliver Religious Life Award
Pastor Daniel Smith has led Messiah Baptist Church with compassion, vision, and advocacy, driving change within the community for social justice and equality. - Leslie King – Floyd Skinner Justice Award
Leslie King has worked tirelessly to combat sex trafficking, advocating for survivors and providing essential resources for their healing. - Grand Rapids African American Health Institute (GRAAHI) – Eugene Browning Medical Service Award
GRAAHI has led efforts to address health disparities, providing essential health services and resources to underserved communities in West Michigan. - Tyreece Guyton – Ethel Coe Humanities Award
Tyreece Guyton has dedicated his life to using music and the arts to unite communities, fostering cultural appreciation and youth mentorship. - Marian Barrera-Young – Walter Coe Public Service Award
Marian Barrera-Young has spent nearly 40 years fostering relationships between law enforcement and the community, driving positive change through collaboration and trust. - Jamon Alexander – Raymond Tardy Community Service Award
Jamon Alexander, President and CEO of WMCAT, has dedicated nearly 20 years to creating equitable access to opportunity through adult workforce development, arts education, health and well-being and building social capital for change in West Michigan. - Denise Evans – Phyllis Scott Activist Award
Denise Evans has led numerous initiatives to improve maternal and child health outcomes in Grand Rapids, becoming a champion for social equity.
The Junior GIANT Scholarship Recipients
Cedric Ward Leadership Scholarship
- Elzadie Ladomato-Fisher – Top 1% at Grand Rapids University Preparatory Academy, student athlete and leader.
- Kamora Price – Co-captain of the varsity cheerleading squad, National Honor Society officer, and representative on the Superintendent Council.
- Aaron Gholston – Multi-sport athlete, community volunteer, and entrepreneur.
Dr. Patricia Pulliam Leadership Scholarship
- Sahara Tharbs-Hill – Full-time GRCC student aspiring to become an early childhood educator, active volunteer.
- Floyd Tucker III – Junior at Hampton University, Division 1 Track and Field athlete, and volunteer for Kids Food Basket.
- Morgan Robertson – Senior at Western Michigan University, sports management major, and student ambassador.