On Saturday, October 4, 2025, Mayor Andre Dickens joined more than a thousand civic leaders, business partners, and community champions at the 100 Honors Gala, the signature fundraising event of 100 Black Men of Atlanta, Inc. Held at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta, the evening recognized outstanding individuals and organizations whose leadership continues to shape and strengthen Atlanta’s communities.
Hosted by WSB-TV anchors Fred Blankenship and Lori Wilson, the evening began with a moving memorial tribute and inspiring words from organization leaders, followed by greetings from Mayor Dickens.
“Good evening! I’m honored to join you for this night of excellence, elegance, and empowerment,” the Mayor said, acknowledging community leaders including Ambassador Andrew Young and former Mayor Shirley Franklin. “For nearly 40 years, members of 100 Black Men of Atlanta have consistently shown up for our young people.”
The event honored notable figures including Andre “Big Boi” Patton, Melanie Campbell, Judge Glenda Hatchett, Pinky Cole Hayes, Dr. Mark Berry, Birdel Jackson, Wayman Jones, and corporate partner Georgia-Pacific. Mayor Dickens praised the honorees as “forces for good in the community—people who understand that success is sweeter when you help others reach their potential.”
The gala also spotlighted the organization’s signature youth programs, including Project Success, Saturday School, and the 100 Scholars Robotics Alliance—all designed to advance mentoring, education, and leadership development for Atlanta’s underserved youth.
“My preacher reminds us that love ought to look like something,” Dickens told attendees. “For 100 Black Men and tonight’s honorees, love looks like sharing your time, your expertise, and your resources. Love looks like everyone in this room prioritizing this city’s greatest asset—our young people.”
The Mayor closed by reaffirming the importance of collaboration across sectors: “No government can do it alone. Atlanta succeeds when public servants, corporate partners, and community leaders work toward a common goal. Tonight, we celebrate not just our honorees, but our shared commitment to mentoring and empowering the next generation.”
