BALTIMORE, MD (May 2, 2025) — The Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History and Culture will mark two decades of preserving and celebrating Black art, history and culture with its 20th Anniversary Black Tie Gala, taking place on Thursday, May 8, 2025, from 6:30 PM – 11:00 PM at the M&T Bank Exchange in Baltimore, Maryland (401 W. Fayette St. | 21201).
Presented by Horton Mechanical and The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company, this milestone event will recognize the Museum’s powerful legacy and continued leadership in the protection, preservation, and amplification of Black stories –especially at a time such as this.
The evening will be hosted by acclaimed actor Tamara Tunie, who will serve as Mistress of Ceremonies, and feature a live musical performance by Davon Fleming, a Maryland native and standout contestant on NBC’s The Voice. The event will also include dinner, other live performances, and award presentations recognizing leaders who have significantly impacted business, the arts, public service, and community development.
This year’s TITAN Award will be presented to Loida N. Lewis, a respected philanthropist and businesswoman, and P. David Bramble, a prominent Baltimore-based developer whose work has reshaped communities. The MAVERICK Award will go to renowned arts advocate Dr. Leslie King Hammond and Mayor Brandon M. Scott, both recognized for their visionary leadership and dedication to public service. The TRAILBLAZER Award will honor Gary Bowden, the visionary architect behind the design of Lewis Museum, and there will be a special tribute to the late George L. Russell, Jr., founding board chair and fierce museum advocate.
Among the evening’s expected distinguished guests are: First Lady of Maryland Dawn Moore, Senator Angela Alsobrooks, Congressman Kweisi Mfume, Speaker Adrienne Jones, Mayor Brandon M. Scott, Baltimore City Councilman Jermaine Jones and Delegate Sam Rosenberg—each lending their presence in support of the Museum’s mission and legacy.
This year’s gala is made possible through the generosity of a wide range of corporate, civic, and philanthropic supporters. Presenting Sponsors include Horton Mechanical and The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company.
Major Sponsors include: Neutron, The Reginald F. Lewis Foundation, BGE, CareFirst, AARP, Atlas Restaurant Group, Johns Hopkins University and Medicine, Kaiser Permanente, The City of Baltimore, McCormick, the University of Maryland Medical System, Brown Advisory and MCB Real Estate.
Media sponsors include: WJZ13-TV, The Baltimore Banner, AFRO News, WEAA 88.9, and Whitney Stringer PR & Events.
Special Weekend Event: A Lewis Table Talk with Tamara Tunie
The celebration continues on Saturday, May 10, from 2 PM to 4 PM at the Lewis Museum (830 E. Pratt Street) with “A Lewis Table Talk with Tamara Tunie,” an intimate conversation reflecting on the acclaimed actor’s life, career, and latest project, “Beyond The Gates.” The talk will be moderated by media personality LaDawn Black, bringing insight, humor, and inspiration to the weekend.
Included with Museum admission, this program offers guests a unique opportunity to hear from Tunie in a personal and engaging setting. It’s the perfect kickoff to Mother’s Day weekend, designed to uplift and energize the community with powerful storytelling and meaningful dialogue.
The Reginald F. Lewis Museum remains a critical beacon for education, community dialogue, and cultural pride. The 20th Anniversary Gala serves not only as a celebration, but as a recommitment to the Museum’s mission at a pivotal moment in the nation’s history.
For more information, visit www.lewismuseum.org, follow the @lewismuseum on social media: Facebook, Instagram, Youtube, and LinkedIn, or contact Crystal Turner | Director of Communications & External Relations at crystal.turner@lewismuseum.org.
About the Reginald F. Lewis Museum
The Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History and Culture documents, interprets, and preserves the complex experiences, contributions, and culture of Black people in Maryland. The museum serves as a catalyst for sustained change by providing programs, exhibitions, and bold conversations that educate and challenge.
SOURCE: Reginald F. Lewis Museum