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2 hours
Atlanta Marriott Marquis
Thu, 22 May, 2025 at 12:30 pm to 02:30 pm (GMT-04:00)
Atlanta Marriott Marquis
265 Peachtree Center Avenue Northeast, Atlanta, United States
Honoring Excellence in Leadership, the Atlanta Business League (ABL) celebrates visionary CEOs who lead with purpose in minority vendor development and community engagement. These prestigious awards highlight their commitment to economic equity and opportunity for minority-owned businesses. The CEO Awards Luncheon shines a well-deserved spotlight on these leaders' lasting contributions to Atlanta's inclusive economic growth.
Award Categories:
Info: The category descriptions for each Honoree:Distinguished Service Award
Honors a community and civic leader who has made significant contributions in Atlanta and nationwide.
Entrepreneur of the Year Award
Recognizes a successful minority business owner who leads in their industry and serves their community.
Herman J. Russell CEO of the Year Award
The highest honor for CEOs, celebrating leadership, fairness, and strong shareholder results.
Thomas W. Dortch, Jr. League Leadership Award
The top recognition for an ABL member who consistently advances the League’s mission through dedicated service.
Trailblazer Award
Celebrates a trailblazer who has opened doors for minority businesses, excelled professionally, and impacted Atlanta through leadership.
Visions of Excellence Award
Recognizes a changemaker who envisions and delivers lasting improvements to life in Atlanta and surrounding communities.
Info: Andre Dickens is the 61st Mayor of Atlanta, focused on public safety, youth empowerment, affordable housing, and neighborhood investment. Since taking office in 2022, he has launched initiatives like Atlanta’s first investment in early childhood education and creating the Nightlife Division to combat crime. Before becoming mayor, Dickens served on the Atlanta City Council, co-created the BeltLine Senior Housing Rehab Program, and championed policies on public safety and transportation.
Info: Ernest is the President & CEO of FS 360, LLC, a leading minority-owned construction management firm with a client list that includes Coca-Cola, Delta Air Lines, and Emory University. Under his leadership, FS 360 expanded into the Dallas market, securing contracts with major players like American Airlines and DFW Airport, with a project portfolio exceeding $2.5 billion. A recognized leader, Ernest also serves as President of the National Association of Minority Contractors Greater Atlanta Chapter and contributes to several industry boards.
Info: Bob Hope is the visionary behind Hope Beckham Espinosa, a leading Atlanta-based public relations and event marketing firm. Starting his career with the Atlanta Braves, Bob co-founded Hope-Beckham over 30 years ago, building it into a strategic communication powerhouse. Active in community service, Bob serves on several boards and co-founded the HAVE Foundation in Honduras, while earning numerous accolades, including Most Admired CEO and the Hospitality Hall of Fame.
Info:
Derrick Morrow is the Area Vice President & General Manager of Hyatt Regency Atlanta, and brings decades of experience and service-driven leadership. Starting his Hyatt journey in 1991 as Associate Director of Sales, Derrick has led key properties like Hyatt Regency Crystal City and Hyatt Regency Tampa, building a career focused on excellence. A strong advocate for community engagement and equity, he champions Hyatt’s Purpose of Care and leads the Change Starts Here initiative.
Info: Valerie Nesbitt is the Director of Supplier Inclusion & Sustainability at Norfolk Southern, where she leads initiatives to support small and diverse businesses and drive sustainability in the supply chain. With over 30 years of experience, Valerie has held leadership roles at Hartsfield-Jackson, Coca-Cola, and Delta Air Lines, and created the Maynard H. Jackson Jr. Legacy Awards to promote industry inclusion. She holds advanced degrees and is active in community service, serving on multiple boards and is a life member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
Info: Dr. Victoria Seals is the sixth president of Atlanta Technical College, where her leadership has boosted student success, workforce readiness, and industry connections, earning the college the 2023 Bellwether Award for Workforce Development. With over 25 years’ experience in higher education, Dr. Seals has received numerous accolades, including recognition as one of Georgia Trend’s Top 500 Influential Leaders. A Spelman alumna, she is also committed to civic engagement, serving on several boards and advocating for education and equity.
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