Overview: The 2026 Paragon Awards will honor eight local Black men for exceptional leadership and service in the St. Louis area on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at Andre’s at Palladium. Co-hosted by the Epsilon Lambda Charitable Foundation and the Ivy Foundation of St. Louis, the gala raises funds for youth scholarships, mentorship, and family initiatives across the metropolitan region.
Eight local leaders will take center stage this October as the community rallies to support scholarships and youth initiatives across the region.
Eight distinguished Black men will be honored for their leadership, service, and local impact at the 2026 Paragon Awards: A Salute to Black Men.
The event takes place Thursday, October 22, 2026, at Andre’s at Palladium in St. Louis.
Presented by the Epsilon Lambda Charitable Foundation and the Ivy Foundation of St. Louis, the awards celebrate Black men whose work uplifts the region.
The event receives support from members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. (Epsilon Lambda Chapter) and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® (Omicron Eta Omega Chapter).
Honoring Regional Leaders
This year’s honorees have demonstrated excellence across education, public safety, healthcare, the arts, business, and community advocacy.
The 2026 honorees include:
- Carlos Ross: Education and Youth Empowerment
- Chief Troy Doyle: Service and Public Safety
- Derrick Melton: Health and Wellness
- Dr. Dan Redden: Arts, Culture, and Creative Expression
- Eric Vails Sr.: Economics and Entrepreneurship
- Thomas E. Ousley: Lifetime Achievement
- Tony Woolfolk: Game Changer
- • Trevion Scott: Community Impact
Supporting Youth and Families in St. Louis
Beyond the awards ceremony, the event raises critical funding for the community. Proceeds from ticket sales, sponsorships, and table purchases directly support scholarships and local programs designed to empower area youth, strengthen families, and open new doors throughout the St. Louis metropolitan area.
The evening offers local residents, business leaders, and supporters a chance to connect and celebrate the tangible contributions Black men make to the region every day.
Event Details and Tickets
The celebration opens with an evening reception, followed by the awards presentation and celebration.
- Date: Thursday, October 22, 2026
- Reception Time: 5:30 p.m.
- Location: Andre’s at Palladium, 1400 Park Place, St. Louis, MO 63104
Tickets, reserved tables, and corporate sponsorships are open now. To buy tickets or partner as a sponsor, visit the Ivy Foundation of St. Louis Event Page.
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