DAYTON, Ohio - TelAve -- The Miami Valley Urban League proudly announces the recipients of the 2026 Pillar Awards, recognizing exceptional community leaders and minority-owned businesses for their excellence and meaningful impact on the Greater Dayton and Miami Valley regions.

2026 Pillar Award Honorees:

• Dr. Alonzo Patterson, III
• Marya Rutherford Long
• Karen Wick Gagnet, Posthumous

2026 Rising Star Honoree:

• Sean Freeman, Omega Community Development Corporation

2026 Pillar IMPACT Award:

• Total Health & Wellness, Dr. Rosalind "Dr. Roz" Mascall

"The 2026 honorees reflect the leadership, vision, and commitment needed to create lasting change in our community," said Nikol M. Miller, Executive Director of the Miami Valley Urban League. "Their work spans health, economic development, education, and entrepreneurship—but at the core, each has dedicated their efforts to expanding opportunity and strengthening the fabric of the Dayton region. Their impact is not only measurable, but also transformational."

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The Pillar Awards will be presented at the 2026 Pillar Awards Reception on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, 5:30-7:30 pm at The Dayton Arcade, 35 W. 4th Street, Dayton, OH 45402.

More information on the 2026 honorees, including full biographies ticket information and more can be found at: https://mvul.org/pillars.

The Miami Valley Urban League is on a mission to end generational poverty through advocacy and by empowering individuals to establish careers, become entrepreneurs, build wealth, and develop as leaders. To learn more visit: www.mvul.org