DCABP CELEBRATES SUCCESSFUL 91ST ANNUAL FOUNDERS DAY BANQUET

Keynote Speaker Pastor James D. Gailliard Inspires Community to Honor the Legacy While Advancing the Work

DURHAM, N.C. — The Durham Committee on the Affairs of Black People (DCABP) proudly celebrates the success of its 91st Annual Founders Day Banquet, held Saturday, August 15, 2026, at the Sheraton Imperial Hotel Raleigh-Durham Airport at Research Triangle Park. The signature celebration brought together community leaders, elected officials, business professionals, educators, clergy, students, members, and supporters for an evening honoring 91 years of advocacy, leadership, service, and community empowerment.

The evening was highlighted by a powerful keynote address from Pastor James D. Gailliard, Senior Pastor of Word Tabernacle Church in Rocky Mount and former member of the North Carolina House of Representatives. A visionary faith leader, accomplished public servant, and respected voice at the intersection of faith, justice, public policy, and community transformation, Pastor Gailliard challenged those in attendance to recognize the responsibility that accompanies leadership and to transform their commitment into meaningful action. His message complemented the historic mission of DCABP and reinforced the importance of collective leadership in creating stronger and more equitable communities.

"For 91 years, the Durham Committee has remained steadfast in its commitment to advancing the interests of Durham's Black community," said Attorney Floyd B. McKissick, Jr., Chairman of the Durham Committee on the Affairs of Black People. "Our Founders Day Banquet is more than a celebration of our history—it is an opportunity to recognize those carrying the work forward and to recommit ourselves to the advocacy, civic engagement, educational advancement, and economic empowerment that remain essential to our community."

A highlight of the celebration was the presentation of the 2026 Chairman's Award to D. Curtis Lawson, Associate Athletics Director, Director of Tennis, and Head Men's Tennis Coach at North Carolina Central University. Coach Lawson was recognized for his distinguished career, visionary leadership, commitment to student success, and decades of service to NCCU and the Durham community. A 2026 inductee into the Black Tennis Hall of Fame, Lawson has spent more than 25 years developing student-athletes and building a nationally respected HBCU tennis program. He is also recognized as the first Dues-Paid Lifetime Member of DCABP, demonstrating his commitment to the organization's mission and future.

The banquet also honored Larry and Denise Hester with the Community Leadership Award for their transformative contributions to economic and community development along Durham's historic Fayetteville Street Corridor. As founders of M & M Real Estate Development and Consulting, the Hesters' investments, including Phoenix Crossing Shopping Center, have helped create more than 55,000 square feet of commercial space while expanding opportunities for entrepreneurship, business development, job creation, and neighborhood revitalization.

Destiny L. Alexander, founder of POOF Teen Center, was also recognized for her commitment to empowering young people ages 13–18. Through financial literacy, entrepreneurship, legacy planning, travel, mentorship, and leadership development, POOF encourages young people to envision possibilities beyond their immediate surroundings while developing the skills and confidence necessary to pursue successful futures.

Continuing DCABP's longstanding commitment to education and developing the next generation of leaders, the Youth and Education Committee presented the 1935 Social Change Educational Scholarship Award to Brinity Horton, Johna Spelle, Gianna Peterson, and Lelia Lemons. The students were recognized for their academic achievement, leadership, community service, and commitment to their future goals. Their accomplishments represent the promise of the next generation and reinforce the importance of investing in young people as future leaders and agents of social change.

The success of the 91st Annual Founders Day Banquet was made possible through the collective efforts of DCABP leadership, committees, members, sponsors, community partners, volunteers, guests, and supporters. DCABP extends its sincere appreciation to everyone who contributed to the evening and especially to Pastor James D. Gailliard for delivering a timely and inspiring keynote message.

Established in 1935, the Durham Committee on the Affairs of Black People has spent more than nine decades advocating for the political, educational, economic, civic, and social advancement of Durham's Black community. As DCABP moves toward its next century of service, the organization remains committed to honoring the vision of its founders while preparing a new generation of leaders to address today's challenges and shape tomorrow's opportunities.

91 Years Strong. Our Voice. Our Community. Our Future.

Durham Committee on the Affairs of Black People

Advocacy • Leadership • Service • Community Empowerment

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