CCAC Homewood-Brushton Center Celebrated Black History, Culture and Creativity during Awards Reception

Published March 5, 2026

CCAC Homewood-Brushton Center honored Black History Month with a reception on Feb. 26. The event, “Excellence: CCAC’s 60 Years of Distinction and Impact,” included an awards presentation, art and fashion exhibit featuring more than 30 local artists, live music and more.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of this year’s CCAC Homewood-Brushton Community Impact awards. The Community Pillar Award recognizes an individual or organization whose sustained commitment has served as a foundation for growth, opportunity and transformation within the vicinity of the CCAC Homewood-Brushton Center and surrounding community. The Community Partner Award honors an individual or organization whose partnership has enhanced student experience, community connection and collective impact through meaningful collaboration with CCAC Homewood.

This year’s recipients are Community Pillar Award winner, T. Rashad Byrdsong, co-founder and president of the Community Empowerment Association, and Community Partner Award winner Diane I. Daniels, journalist, entrepreneur and community leader.

“A pillar is defined by its ability to bear weight and provide a foundation. For decades, Mr. Byrdsong has been the bedrock of the Homewood community. We honor a visionary who hasn’t just witnessed history—he has shaped it.  Ms. Daniels truly defines what it means to be a community partner. An active partner and collaborator, her support for CCAC and many other organizations in the Homewood area has had a positive impact on the community,” said Dr. Juel Smith, CCAC associate dean of science and executive director of the Homewood-Brushton Center.