Recorder Media Group and the Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper proudly announce that nominations are now open for the 20th Annual Champions of Impact Awards, marking two decades of recognizing exceptional leaders, organizations, and changemakers whose vision, service, and commitment have strengthened communities and improved lives.
The milestone celebration on Friday, January 15, 2027, at the JW Marriott Indianapolis, will bring together over 1,200 community leaders, creating an inspiring atmosphere that celebrates community impact and leadership.
For 20 years, the Champions of Impact Awards have recognized hundreds of individuals and organizations whose work has created opportunities, advanced equity, driven innovation, strengthened neighborhoods, and inspired positive change throughout Indiana and across the nation. What began as a celebration of achievement has grown into one of Indiana’s most respected and anticipated recognitions of leadership and community service.
“This 20th anniversary celebration represents much more than a milestone event,” said Robert Shegog, President and CEO of Recorder Media Group. “It represents twenty years of honoring extraordinary individuals and organizations whose leadership has transformed communities, opened doors of opportunity, and inspired future generations. Their stories remind us that true success is not measured solely by what we accomplish for ourselves, but by the lives we impact and the legacy we leave behind.”
Nominations are open to individuals, businesses, nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, entrepreneurs, and community leaders from all backgrounds, industries, and regions, highlighting their importance and encouraging the audience to feel their contributions are meaningful and appreciated.
In addition to the Champions of Impact honorees, six distinguished awards will be presented to individuals whose contributions have left an extraordinary mark on their communities and professions:
· Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Award
· Rosa Parks Trailblazer Award
· William G. Mays Excellence in Entrepreneurship Award
· Lifetime Education Advocate Award
· President’s Choice Award
· Amos Brown Community Advocate Award
Nominees should demonstrate exceptional leadership, measurable impact, innovation, collaboration, and a sustained commitment to creating opportunities and improving outcomes for others.
“The people we recognize through Champions of Impact are more than successful professionals,” added Shegog. “They are builders of stronger communities, champions for progress, and leaders who understand that their greatest accomplishments are reflected in the people they serve and empower. Their influence extends far beyond boardrooms, classrooms, businesses, and organizations. It creates lasting change that benefits generations to come.”
As Recorder Media Group celebrates 20 years of recognizing community impact, we invite the public to participate in identifying future leaders.
Nomination Deadline: Friday, October 2, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. (Noon EST)
Event Details
· 20th Annual Champions of Impact Awards Dinner
· Friday, January 15, 2027
· JW Marriott Indianapolis
· 5:30 p.m. Networking Reception
· 6:30 p.m. Dinner & Awards Program
Founded in 1895, the Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper is one of the nation’s most respected African American news organizations and the third oldest continuously operating Black-owned newspaper in the United States. Through the Indianapolis Recorder
Newspaper, Indiana Minority Business Magazine, Minority Business Review, digital media platforms, events, and community initiatives, Recorder Media Group continues its mission to inform, engage, educate, and empower while amplifying stories that inspire progress, strengthen communities, and create opportunities.
For more than 130 years, the Recorder has served as a trusted voice, chronicling history, celebrating achievement, and helping shape a stronger future for generations to come.
For more information, contact ChampionsofImpact@indyrecorder.com.
