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THE 2026
MLK LEGACY CELEBRATION
& AWARDS

Honor • Inspiration • Impact

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MARTIN LUTHER KING LEGACY AWARDS RETURN TO MINNEAPOLIS

Watch the interview with Armetha Pihlstrom, Founder of Pihlstrom Consulting Group, discussing the return of the MLK Legacy awards after 11 years.

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ABOUT THE AWARDS

The MLK Legacy Celebration & Awards was founded in 2015 by Armetha Pihlstrom during her tenure at Cargill. After 11 years, it makes its triumphant return to continue its vital mission: recognizing exceptional individuals who embody Dr. King's transformative spirit through their visionary leadership and community impact.

This prestigious celebration stems from Armetha Pihlstrom's deep-rooted passion to honor those who dedicate themselves to creating positive change in our society and world. As a generational thought-provoking leader, business strategist, and philanthropist herself, Armetha created this platform to illuminate the paths of change-makers who, like Dr. King, dare to dream of, and actively build, a better tomorrow. The relaunch of these awards reaffirms Armetha's commitment to recognizing those who lead with purpose, compassion, and unwavering dedication to service.

Agenda

EVENT DETAILS

Date

Saturday, January 17, 2026

Time

Doors open at 6:00 PM

Legacy Lounge (Mix & Mingle): 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM

Program begins at 6:45 PM

Ends at 10:00 PM

 

Location

Historic Lumber Exchange Event Center

10 S. 5th Street, Suite #300, Minneapolis, MN 55402

Complimentary Valet Parking for Ticketed MLK Legacy Award Guests

 

Attire

Cocktail Attire, Red Carpet

 

Experience

Witness this momentous occasion, where excellence will be honored in an atmosphere of unparalleled elegance. Be part of this movement of powerful leaders and change-makers, as we relaunch this annual tradition rooted in legacy.

Workshops

TICKETS & REGISTRATION

Individual Admission: $200

Table Admission: $2,000

Includes seating for ten (1) MLK Celebration Table.

Event Highlights: Red Carpet & Cocktail Hour, Gourmet Dinner featuring locally sourced ingredients, Signature Uncle Nearest Whiskey Toast, Awards Ceremony, and media coverage.

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MLK Diamond Sponsor

$50K

Four VIP tables (40 guests total) with premium placement.

8 minutes of stage time to speak, premier logo placement on all event materials and website, full-page ad in the printed program, opportunity to present an award on stage, and exclusive meet-and-greet with honorees.

 

MLK Platinum Sponsor

$25K

Three VIP tables (30 guests total).

5 minutes of stage time to speak, prominent logo placement on event materials and website, half-page ad in the printed program, and verbal recognition during the event.

MLK Gold Sponsor

$10K

Two VIP tables (20 guests total).

3 minutes of stage time to speak, logo placement on event signage and website, quarter-page ad in the printed program, and social media mention.

MLK Silver Sponsor

$5K

One VIP table (10 guests total).

Logo placement on event signage, name listed in the printed program, and a social media thank-you post.

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

The MLK Legacy Awards is a premier platform for connecting your brand with visionary leadership and community impact. Sponsorship is a powerful way to illuminate the paths of change-makers and champion the core values of equity, innovation, and leadership excellence.

If you have any questions, please contact Armetha Pihlstrom at armetha@pcg-8.com

OUR SPONSORS

Speakers

2015 HONOREES

In 2015, we recognized the profound impact and visionary leadership of these awardees. These leaders embody the powerful spirit of change and serve as the foundation upon which our renewed mission is built.

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James Pierce

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Frank Sims

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Robert Taylor

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Jenny Verner

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Caroline Wanga

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Kenneth Charles

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Vernon McIntosh

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Tracey Gibson

Speakers

2026 HONOREES

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William Wells

​Bio

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Ruby Lee

Bio

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Laverne McCartney Knighton

Bio

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John Taylor

Bio

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Rose McGee

Bio

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Darren Harmon

Bio

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Sheletta Brundidge

Bio

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Audra Bohannon

Bio

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PRODUCED BY PIHLSTROM CONSULTING GROUP, LLC (PCG)

PCG is a future-forward consulting firm helping brands become household names through strategic growth, cultural relevance, and values-driven innovation. Founded by Armetha Pihlstrom, PCG is built on the belief that business should be both impactful and intentional.

www.pihlstromconsultinggroup.com

The King Center remains committed to proactively educating and training individuals and leaders across all sectors in Nonviolence365 to influence equitable change in our national and global infrastructure. Donate to the King Center today.

© 2026 Pihlstrom Consulting Group LLC. Honoree Terms & Conditions.

Website Design by YCS Web Agency.

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