TOGETHER WE STAND GALA 2026
TOGETHER WE STAND GALA 2026
An Evening Of Excellence, Unity, And Power Building In Black Construction.
Join Industry Leaders, Entrepreneurs, Civic Partners, and Community Champions for Black Contractors United’s Signature Annual Gala.
March 28, 2026
151 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601
Event Details
Date
Saturday, March 28, 2026
Time
6:00 PM
Location
Hyatt Regency Chicago
Attire
Formal/ Black Tie Optional
Gala Program
6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Live Music & Celebration
10:00 PM - 12:00 AM
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.
Together We Stand
Together We Stand is more than a theme. It reflects the collective power created when Black contractors, businesses, institutions, and allies commit to shared growth.
This gala celebrates collaboration, resilience, and the systems we are building to ensure long term opportunity in construction and development.
This Evening Is For
Black contractors and construction professionals
Developers and real estate leaders
Corporate partners and sponsors
Public agencies and policymakers
Community builders and advocates
What to Expect
Formal dinner and curated dining experience
Live entertainment and performances
Recognition of industry leaders
Networking with decision makers
A night of celebration and impact
Your Presence Creates Impact
Proceeds from the Together We Stand Gala support Black Contractors United’s mission to strengthen Black-owned construction businesses through advocacy, education, and access to opportunity.
This night fuels programs, partnerships, and pathways that last far beyond the ballroom.
Tickets
Gala admission is available at a flat rate for all attendees.
$350
Saturday, March 28, 2026
6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Hyatt Regency Chicago
Sponsorship Opportunities
The Together We Stand Gala offers meaningful sponsorship opportunities for organizations seeking visibility, alignment, and impact during one of Black Contractors United’s premier annual events.
Detailed sponsorship benefits and recognition opportunities are outlined in the full sponsorship packet.
Program advertising is also available in the printed gala program.
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
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
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
The Venue
The Together We Stand Gala will take place at the Hyatt Regency Chicago, a premier downtown venue overlooking the Chicago River and known for hosting distinguished events, conferences, and celebrations.
Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, the Hyatt Regency provides convenient access for local and out of town guests.
Join Us
We invite you to stand with Black Contractors United for an evening that celebrates excellence, strengthens relationships, and supports the future of Black-owned construction businesses.