The Tampa Bay History Center will host the fourth annual Black History Month Reception on Feb. 28, 2025, at 801 Water St., Tampa. The evening begins with a reception from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the Lykes Atrium on the second floor, followed by the program at 6:30 p.m. in TECO Hall. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.

This year’s keynote speaker is Leonard George Jr., Esq., a West Tampa native and trailblazer in sports and media. In 1968, George became the first African American to sign a football scholarship with the University of Florida, paving the way for future Black athletes. A 1969 graduate of Tampa’s Jesuit High School, he helped lead the Tigers to their first Florida high school football state championship. After completing his senior season with the Florida Gators, George pursued a career in television journalism at WTOG in Tampa, later practicing law in Atlanta and Tallahassee, including work with the Florida attorney general’s office. His life and legacy are highlighted in the documentary “Leonard George and the Tigers.”

Joining George is Dr. Rozelia Kennedy, who will present the Dr. Bernard LaFayette History Award, honoring an individual dedicated to preserving Black history. The evening’s program will be emceed by Emerald Morrow, an investigative reporter with 10 Tampa Bay and an eight-time Emmy Award-winning journalist.

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Tickets include complimentary valet parking. Guests will also have access to museum galleries and can enjoy live music by saxophonist David Nichols during the reception, where a cash bar will be provided by the Columbia Cafe. African attire is optional for the evening.

THANK YOU to our community partners!