28th Annual Pinnacle Awards Gala
A LOOK BACK AT AN UNFORGETTABLE EVENING.
Explore highlights from the landmark 2025 Pinnacle Awards Gala and discover what’s ahead for the 29th annual celebration of Black business excellence in Houston.
THE MOMENTUM CONTINUES IN 2026.
Following one of the largest Pinnacle Award celebrations in recent history, GHBC is preparing to honor a new class of visionary leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers shaping Housont’s future.
A LANDMARK RETURN
The 2025 Pinnacle Awards marked GHBC’s first in-person gala since 2019 and commemorated the organization’s 90th anniversary, welcoming more than 500 attendees for an unforgettable evening celebrating leadership, innovation, and economic impact across Houston’s Black business community.
HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 2025 PINNACLE AWARDS
Honorary Chairs
Recognized for their leadership, vision, and unwavering support, our Honorary Chairs serve as champions of the Pinnacle Awards and the Greater Houston Black Chamber’s mission.
Jermeshia Goudeau
Co-Founder of Braden Real Estate Group
Nicole Handy
Co-founder of Braden Real Estate Group
Thomas Jones, Jr.
Founding partner of McConnell Jones, LLP (MJ)
Wallace Davis
President of DHI Telecom Group/Sapphire International Mobile Hotspots
LEGACY HONORS
In addition to this year’s Pinnacle Awards, GHBC proudly recognized extraordinary leaders whose vision, advocacy, and service continue to shape Houston’s business and civic landscape.
In addition to this year’s Pinnacle Awards, GHBC proudly recognized extraordinary leaders whose vision, advocacy, and service continue to shape Houston’s business and civic landscape.
With the support of Erica Lee Carter, MPP and Ashley Turner-Captain, two inaugural honors were introduced to celebrate individuals whose leadership and lasting impact embody the spirit of excellence, empowerment, and community advancement.
SHEILA JACKSON LEE LEGENDS AWARD
Percy Creuz & Cheryl Creuzot
Frenchy’s Chicken
SYLVESTER TURNER EXCELLENCE AWARD
Jeff Nelson
Blavity Inc.
These distinguished honors pay tribute to two visionary public servants whose dedication to progress, equity, and opportunity continues to inspire generations of leaders throughout Houston and beyond.
2025 PINNACLE AWARD HONOREES
Pinnacle Award for African American Business Achievement
Troy B. Smith
Troy B. Smith Professional Services
Danny Lovelady
Ark of Safety Security Solutions
Desmond Bertrand-Pitts
Buffalo Soldiers National Museum
Nina Thomas-Boatner
Boatner Logistics
Lori O. Lord
Heist Agency, LLC
Ashley Small
Medley Incorporated
Special Honors
Larry V. Green Advocate of the Year Martha Castex-Tatum
Endurance Award                     Joni Allyn Odum
Mickey Leland Public Leadership Award. Ingrid Robinson
Legacy Partner Award                 Ken Jones Photography
Rising Star Awards
Michael Elizabeth Ewing
Crochet by Mikiee
Asia Jackson
Anjelic Hair Care
Victoria Dixon
Blushed & Bronzed by Victoria Elyse
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Sponsor Houston’s Premier Celebration of Black Business
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Join the Greater Houston Black Chamber as a sponsor of the 2026 Pinnacle Awards Gala, one of Houston’s premier celebrations of Black business excellence, leadership, and community impact. As a sponsor, your brand will align with a distinguished legacy of innovation, advocacy, and economic empowerment while connecting with an influential network of entrepreneurs, executives, professionals, and community leaders. Your partnership helps elevate Black businesses, create opportunities for future generations, and strengthen the continued growth and impact of Houston’s Black business community.
Thanks to Our Sponsors
