Honoring Excellence: The 2025 RICE Awards

By Dr. Jerome Dorn/InDaHouseMedia Photos

For video https://youtu.be/YhLf71TYyqM?feature=shared

The city of Atlanta once again became the stage for brilliance, purpose, and community impact as the 2025 RICE Awards celebrated its annual ceremony. Recognizing Rising in Community Excellence, the RICE Awards spotlight leaders and visionaries whose dedication extends beyond personal success to uplifting communities across the nation.

This year’s star-studded affair was nothing short of spectacular, blending elegance with empowerment. The red carpet buzzed with excitement as honorees, celebrities, entrepreneurs, and change-makers gathered to celebrate individuals making profound differences in their fields—whether in business, entertainment, media, philanthropy, or community development.

A Legacy of Impact

Founded by Dr. C. Chandler with the mission to honor unsung heroes, the RICE Awards has become a beacon of acknowledgment for those who dedicate their lives to service, advocacy, and cultural enrichment. Over the years, it has evolved into one of Atlanta’s most anticipated events, consistently raising the bar in recognizing excellence within the African American community and beyond.

The 2025 edition carried forward that legacy with even more brilliance. Honorees and nominees represented a diverse range of fields, yet all shared a common thread: a commitment to using their platforms to inspire change and progress.

A Night of Glamour and Purpose

Guests arrived in stunning attire, embracing the theme of “Excellence in Motion.†From the fashion statements on the red carpet to the powerful speeches delivered on stage, the evening was a reminder that excellence is not only achieved—it is shared.

The program featured electrifying performances, heartfelt tributes, and presentations that highlighted the stories behind the honorees. Each awardee’s journey reflected resilience, determination, and an unwavering drive to give back.

Spotlight on Honorees

This year’s winners embodied the very essence of excellence across a wide spectrum of categories:

• Business of the Year – Atlanta Airport Publications
• Entrepreneur of the Year – Deberah Williams
• Organization of the Year – Delta Sigma Theta, Fayette County Alumnae Chapter
• Influencer of the Year – Dr. Herman “Skip†Mason
• Foundation of the Year – Every Color Matters
• Non-Profit of the Year – The Refuge Center
• Civil Servant of the Year – Inga Willis
• Health & Wellness Award – Shauna Byrd-Spivey
• Social Impact & Community Engagement – Dr. Porch’se Miller
• The Founder’s Vanguard Award – Tony Betton Jr.
• Educator of the Year – Harold Bennett
• The Community Soul Award – Dr. Toni D. Neal
• The Community Bridge Award – Lamar Scott
• Music, Sports & Entertainment Award – Amberal Collins
• Outstanding in Media – DJ Ms. Eclectic
• E-News/Publication of the Year – Women of Wealth Magazine
• Youth Achiever of the Year – Sean “The Science Kid†Atitsogbe

T.O.R.C.H. Award Honorees

The prestigious TORCH Awards shined a light on individuals whose leadership continues to illuminate pathways for others:

• Dr. Dawn Samad
• Todd A. Gray
• Melody Maddox
• Dr. Monique McMiller
• David Manuel
• Jill Pope, Esq.
• Elgintine Dudley
• Jace C. Gatewood, Esq.
• April Love

Their recognition stood as a testament to the power of vision and service.

Monica Kaufman Pearson Awards for Journalism & Media

A special highlight of the evening was the Monica Kaufman Pearson Awards for Journalism & Media, honoring trailblazers in storytelling and broadcasting:

• Carol Blackmon
• Micheal Roberts
• Angelique Proctor
• Derek Harper

These honorees were celebrated for their powerful contributions to truth, representation, and impact through the media.

More Than an Award Show

Praises echoed throughout the evening for RICE Awards Founder Dr. C. Chandler, whose vision has continued to uplift and honor excellence in the community. Beyond the glitz, the RICE Awards raised awareness for charitable initiatives, reminding attendees that true excellence lies in service. Proceeds and partnerships from the evening supported local nonprofits and youth programs, aligning perfectly with the mission of cultivating the next generation of leaders.

Closing Note

The 2025 RICE Awards was more than a celebration—it was a movement, a reminder that when individuals rise in community excellence, entire generations are elevated. Atlanta shined as a hub of culture, influence, and purpose, cementing the RICE Awards as a cornerstone event in recognizing greatness that matters.

As the final curtain closed, one message lingered in the air: Excellence is not just what you achieve—it’s what you give back.