Elkhart Chapter of Indiana Black Expo hosts annual Trailblazer Awards

ELKHART COUNTY, Ind. -- The annual Trailblazer Awards is Monday night, which honors the top African American students excelling in academics and athletics.  

Chapter President Robert Taylor says this all started because they wanted to shine a light on African American students and celebrate education during Black History Month.

This year the chapter is expanding the award ceremony into Concord Community Schools, where a special luncheon for students and their parents will be held on Wednesday. 

The biggest award of the night is the Garvin Roberson award, named after the brother of Elkhart Mayor Rod Roberson, given to a student who excels in both academics and athletics. 

This year's recipient is Anthony Lenard Jr., a student with a 3.8 GPA, a multi-sport athlete and a state track competitor.  

Taylor says Lenard is a role model for his peers and an inspiration for the community. 

"This kid just happened to be the person that everybody was like, "He's the one, 3.8 GPA, all conference in football, went to state and track this year." The relay team that he was on broke some records, he played basketball, but that 3.8 GPA and how he just stands out in the classroom and with his classmates is what really took the key for us," Taylor said. 

In addition to the main award ceremony, notable guests will be in attendance, including the mayor, the superintendent, and the CEO of the Chamber of Commerce. This year's keynote speaker is Dr. Sean L. Huddleston, president of Martin University. 

300 tickets have been sold and although tonight's event is sold out, Taylor says he's just happy to see the community celebrate youth. 

"It's a positive event. One, it is to cheer on these African American kids who are doing positive things in the classroom. Two, it's just something to do. It's President's Day, you ain't gotta work, or there's no school, family reunion, man, you'll see people that you probably haven't seen in a while."