Crowned in Courage: Black Women Leading Change with Power and Purpose

This year's celebration is particularly meaningful as we recognize a decade of work honoring and supporting African American women in higher education. AAFPAA was created to recognize African American women professors, encourage women to pursue advanced degrees and professorships, and help create a higher education landscape where diversity and cultural mindfulness allow students of color to thrive.

We are especially honored to welcome Nikole Hannah-Jones, journalist and creator of The 1619 Project, who has been invited to join us for an interview-style conversation and receive AAFPAA Legacy Award.

This evening is about more than an awards program. It is an opportunity to gather professors, students, educators, community members, leaders, and supporters to recognize the contributions of Black women in higher education and to consider the ways their leadership shapes our communities.
 

Event Details

AAFPAA 10th Anniversary Crown & Gown Gala
Crowned in Courage: Black Women Leading Change with Power and Purpose
📅 Saturday, November 7, 2026
📍 Sheraton Hotel, One Monarch Place
Springfield, Massachusetts
🎟️ Tickets: $75
MC: Janine Fondon, MA, MFA. Communications. Associate Professor. American International College
Special Guest: Nikole Hannah-Jones
Legacy Award Recipient: Nikole Hannah-Jones
This is an important milestone for AAFPAA, but it is also an opportunity for our broader community to come together around education, leadership, racial justice, and the continued importance of creating space for Black women to lead and be recognized.