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THE 2026 MLK LEGACY CELEBRATION & AWARDS

Honor • Inspiration • Impact

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ABOUT THE AWARDS

The MLK Legacy Celebration & Awards was founded in 2015 by Armetha Pihlstrom during her tenure at Cargill. After 11 years, it makes its triumphant return to continue its vital mission: recognizing exceptional individuals who embody Dr. King's transformative spirit through their visionary leadership and community impact.

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This prestigious celebration stems from Armetha Pihlstrom's deep-rooted passion to honor those who dedicate themselves to creating positive change in our society and world. As a generational thought-provoking leader, business strategist, and philanthropist herself, Armetha created this platform to illuminate the paths of change-makers who, like Dr. King, dare to dream of, and actively build, a better tomorrow. The relaunch of these awards reaffirms Armetha's commitment to recognizing those who lead with purpose, compassion, and unwavering dedication to service.

Agenda

EVENT DETAILS

Date

Saturday, January 17, 2026

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Time

Doors open at 6:00 PM

Legacy Lounge (Mix & Mingle): 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM

Program begins at 6:45 PM

Ends at 10:00 PM

 

Location

Historic Lumber Exchange Event Center

10 S. 5th Street, Suite #300, Minneapolis, MN 55402

Valet Parking Service Available for Everyone

 

Attire

Cocktail Attire, Red Carpet

 

Experience

Witness this momentous occasion, where excellence will be honored in an atmosphere of unparalleled elegance. Be part of this movement of powerful leaders and change-makers, as we relaunch this annual tradition rooted in legacy.

Workshops

TICKETS & REGISTRATION

Individual Admission: $200

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Table Admission: $2,000

Includes seating for ten (1) MLK Celebration Table.

Event Highlights: Red Carpet & Cocktail Hour, Gourmet Dinner featuring locally sourced ingredients, Signature Uncle Nearest Whiskey Toast, Awards Ceremony, and media coverage.

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MLK Diamond Sponsor

$50K

Four VIP tables (40 guests total) with premium placement.

8 minutes of stage time to speak, premier logo placement on all event materials and website, full-page ad in the printed program, opportunity to present an award on stage, and exclusive meet-and-greet with honorees.

 

MLK Platinum Sponsor

$25K

Three VIP tables (30 guests total).

5 minutes of stage time to speak, prominent logo placement on event materials and website, half-page ad in the printed program, and verbal recognition during the event.

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MLK Gold Sponsor

$10K

Two VIP tables (20 guests total).

3 minutes of stage time to speak, logo placement on event signage and website, quarter-page ad in the printed program, and social media mention.

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MLK Silver Sponsor

$5K

One VIP table (10 guests total).

Logo placement on event signage, name listed in the printed program, and a social media thank-you post.

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

The MLK Legacy Awards is a premier platform for connecting your brand with visionary leadership and community impact. Sponsorship is a powerful way to illuminate the paths of change-makers and champion the core values of equity, innovation, and leadership excellence.

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If you have any questions, please contact Armetha Pihlstrom at armetha@pcg-8.com

Speakers

2015 HONOREES

In 2015, we recognized the profound impact and visionary leadership of these awardees. These leaders embody the powerful spirit of change and serve as the foundation upon which our renewed mission is built.

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Eric Mahmoud

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Caroline Wanga

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Jenny Verner

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James Pierce

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Vernon McIntosh

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Kenneth Charles

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Robert Taylor

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Frank Sims

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Tracey Gibson

Speakers

2026 HONOREES

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Bill Wells

​Bio

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Ruby Lee

Bio

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Laverne McCartney Knighton

Bio

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John Taylor

Bio

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Rose McGee

Bio

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Darren Harmon

Bio

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Sheletta Brundidge

​Bio

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Audra Bohannon

Bio

OUR SPONSORS

COMING SOON!

PRODUCED BY PIHLSTROM CONSULTING GROUP, LLC (PCG)

PCG is a future-forward consulting firm helping brands become household names through strategic growth, cultural relevance, and values-driven innovation. Founded by Armetha Pihlstrom, PCG is built on the belief that business should be both impactful and intentional.

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www.pihlstromconsultinggroup.com

© 2025 Philstrom Consulting Group LLC.

Website Design by YCS Web Agency.

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