TOGETHER WE STAND
TOGETHER WE STAND
Together We Stand Gala
Together We Stand Gala
Saturday, March 28
6:00 PM
Hyatt Regency Chicago
Saturday, March 28
6:00 PM
Hyatt Regency Chicago
Welcome to the Together We Stand Gala
Tonight is more than a celebration.
It is a reflection of progress, partnership, and possibility.
Because of this community, doors are opening, businesses are growing, and futures are being built.
We are honored to have you here.
— Black Contractors United
What to Expect Tonight
An evening of recognition, connection, and purpose.
Honoring industry leaders and rising talent
Celebrating scholarship recipients and the next generation of builders
Connecting with contractors, partners, and community leaders
Advancing the continued growth of Black contractors across our region
About Black Contractors United
Black Contractors United (BCU) is a Chicago-based network advancing minority contractors across Illinois and beyond.
Through workforce development and strategic partnerships, BCU is expanding access to real opportunities within the construction industry.
BCU is helping build a more inclusive and competitive ecosystem where minority-owned businesses are equipped to grow, lead, and thrive.
The Together We Stand Gala brings that mission to life bringing together leaders, partners, and future builders to celebrate progress, honor excellence, and invest in what comes next.
Lifetime Achievement Award
Congressman Danny K. Davis
We are honored to recognize Congressman Danny K. Davis for a lifetime of leadership, service, and unwavering commitment to community.
From his early beginnings in Parkdale, Arkansas to his enduring impact in Chicago and across the nation, Congressman Davis has dedicated his life to advancing opportunity, equity, and public service.
His work as an educator, community leader, and policymaker reflects a deep rooted belief in empowering people and strengthening communities.
Currently serving his fifteenth and final term in the United States House of Representatives, Congressman Davis continues to champion initiatives that uplift working families, expand opportunity, and strengthen communities.
As he prepares to close this chapter of public service, we recognize not only his enduring leadership but a legacy that will continue to shape generations to come.
Honorees
Walsh Construction, a leading builder with over a century of excellence, continues to shape Chicago’s infrastructure through its commitment to workforce development and community partnership.
Walsh Construction
Contractor of the Year
President & CEO, Riteway - Huggins Construction, Larry has led decades of visionary leadership in construction and unwavering dedication to advancing economic opportunity, community development, and minority business growth.
Larry Huggins
Legacy Builder
Vice President, National Director, Community & Citizenship at Turner Construction, Pamyla advanced equitable pathways into the construction industry through innovative workforce programs and expanding access for women and underrepresented communities.
Pamyla Brown
Trailblazer
CEO of Chicago Area Project (CAP), one of the nation’s oldest community-based organizations, David has expanded access to workforce training, youth development, and social services across underserved communities.
David Whittaker
Workforce Development
Founder of Saving Our Sons Ministries, Reginald is committed to community transformation, workforce training, and advocacy for returning citizens through grassroots leadership and service.
Reginald Berry, Sr.
Social Impact
Vice President of GBG, Inc., Michael has played a key role in bridging the insurance and construction industries, strengthening strategic partnerships and advancing opportunities for diverse businesses.
Michael Charles Hilson
Risk Management & Financial Services
Diversity Administrator of Contract Compliance at the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago, Richard has dedicated over 30 years to advancing equitable contracting, strengthening compliance, and expanding opportunities across major public infrastructure projects.
Richard L. Martinez, Jr
Partner in Progress
Chief Operating Officer of Prosperity Building Futures, Inesha is driving the creation of transformative workforce pipelines, expanding access to skilled trades careers through innovative education, training, and strategic industry partnerships.
Inesha Bernice Kelly
Trade Educator of the Year
Founder and President of Invest Now Realty Network, Sean is transforming communities through intentional real estate development, creating pathways to ownership, stability, and lasting neighborhood impact.
Sean Jones
Rising Contractor
Dawson Technical Institute
Scholarship Recipients
Celebrating the next generation of leaders, builders, and changemakers
Kayla Jordan
Construction Carpentry
Seneca Lofton
Construction Management
Rejean Hughes
Construction Carpentry
Marcel Murden
Combination Welder
Kywone Ivy
Construction Carpentry
Victor Lee
Plumbing & Fire Protection
Tosha Scott
Construction Carpentry
Prentice Fortner
Overhead Electrical Line Worker
Evening Program
Saturday, March 28 | Hyatt Regency Chicago
6:00 PM
Guest Arrival
Welcome Reception & Networking
7:00 PM
Opening Remarks
Setting the tone for the evening ahead
Dinner Service
An evening of connection & conversation continues
Awards & Honoree Presentations
Honoring leadership, excellence, and lasting impact
Scholarship Recognition
Investing in the next generation of builders
Closing Remarks
Followed by continued networking
Thank you for being part of an evening dedicated to building futures and expanding opportunity.
Our Partners & Sponsors
We are proud to partner with organizations committed to advancing opportunity, equity, and excellence within the construction industry.
Featured Sponsors
Industry Partners
Milhouse Construction
Greg Viti - Keller Williams ONEChicago
Brandenburg
Mid-America Carpenters
Pepper Construction
Chicagoland AGC
McHugh Construction
WD3 Associates
Scholarship Partners
Carl West
Black United Fund of Illinois
LaToya Gray
Grayt Services
Mercedes George
W.A. George Insurance
Kareem & Giovanni Broughton
Structure Re-Right
Interested in partnering with BCU? Contact us at sponsorship@bcuchicago.com
Continue the Impact
Building Futures Together
Tonight is more than a celebration, it is a reminder of what is possible when we invest in people, create opportunity, and work collectively to strengthen our communities.
Through your support, Black Contractors United continues to expand access, develop talent, and build pathways for the next generation of leaders in construction and beyond.
Stay Connected. Stay Engaged
Support scholarships for the next generation of skilled trades leaders
Become a member of Black Contractors United
Partner with BCU to expand workforce development opportunities
Sponsor initiatives that create access and growth for minority contractors