Sept. 22, 2023 GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. - Nominations are now open for the 41st annual GIANT Awards, which recognize exceptional African American leaders for their contributions to the history, quality of life, and culture of West Michigan communities.
Dr. Patricia Pulliam and the late Cedric Ward created the event in 1983 to preserve history and inspire future generations. Grand Rapids Community College hosts the annual ceremony. The upcoming event will be at 6 p.m. on Feb. 3, 2024, at DeVos Place Ballroom, 303 Monroe Ave.
“This event shows the beauty and significance of where we live and who we serve,” said Tempy Mann, chairperson of the 41st GIANT Awards. “This is the time to celebrate the African American community; to say look at us, look at what we’ve done, and look at how we’ve contributed to this city and our community.”
Thirteen giants of the community will be honored at the upcoming event, Mann said. Nominations may be submitted until 5 p.m. on October 31 at grcc.edu/GIANT. The selection committee encourages those who have previously nominated people who have not been selected for an award to please submit again as there is a new application.
Proceeds will support the Milo M. Brown Memorial Scholarship and the Junior GIANT Scholarship. The Junior GIANT Cedric Ward Leadership Scholarship and the Junior GIANT Dr. Patricia Pulliam Leadership Scholarship was established in 2017. The Milo M. Brown Memorial Scholarship was established in 1987.