August Wilson African American Cultural Center
Will Celebrate Seven Distinguished
Pittsburgh Honorees
with Luminary and Trailblazer Awards
at Fuel the Future: Take Center Stage Gala
November 21, 6:00 pm
PITTSBURGH, PA, October 28, 2025 -- In recognition of the 15th anniversary of the opening of the August Wilson African American Cultural Center (AWAACC) and in honor of what would have been August Wilson’s 80th birth year, the Pittsburgh community is invited to celebrate at the Fuel the Future: Take Center Stage Gala on Friday, November 21, 2025, 6:00 pm, at the iconic facility at 980 Liberty Avenue, the gateway to downtown Pittsburgh’s Cultural District. Guests will enjoy an unforgettable evening featuring live performances, exclusive gallery tours, a seated dinner and more.
This year’s Gala, with generous support from Presenting Sponsor UPMC and UPMC Health Plan, AWAACC will present Luminary Awards to Tamara Tunie, Antoine Fuqua and Lamman Rucker, three nationally renowned artists with roots in Pittsburgh. To be honored with Trailblazer Awards for their tireless work in strengthening Pittsburgh's arts and culture sector are Ayisha A. Morgan-Lee, EdD, Monica Malik, Tenel Dorsey and Marlon Gist.
“We are pleased to honor these seven cultural visionaries whose achievements embody Pittsburgh’s enduring legacy of innovation while serving as inspiration to future generations of artists,” said Janis Burley, AWAACC President/CEO and Artistic Director. “We present amazing artists on our stages, incredible art in our galleries and outstanding programs and events throughout the Center. To continue to do this, we need the support from our community to help us Fuel the Future. Join us at the Gala next month as we celebrate 15 years of creativity and commitment, and a future filled with the promise of building a stronger cultural legacy for us all.”
The Gala will include live performances by 2025 BUILD Artist-in-Residence Dan Wilson, returning to AWAACC with selected highlights from his sold out George Benson tribute concert, and music from the Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival All Stars Student Band, who made their debut at this year’s festival. Guests also can enjoy guided gallery tours featuring the highly anticipated return of Peju Alatise’s Flying Girls sculpture installation. The Gala dinner menu takes its inspiration from Dr. Jessica B. Harris, the celebrated culinary historian recently featured in the Center’s A Seat at Our Table series, honoring the traditions and creativity that shape Black cuisine.
“UPMC and UPMC Health Plan are proud to partner with the August Wilson African American Cultural Center to honor the enduring legacy of August Wilson,” said James E. Taylor, PhD, Senior Vice President & Chief Culture, Community, and Talent Management Officer at UPMC “As presenting sponsor of the Fuel the Future: Take Center Stage Gala, we celebrate 15 years of artistic excellence and community impact while helping to ensure that this world-class institution continues to inspire generations to come.”
ABOUT THE HONOREES
Tamara Tunie has a distinguished body of work that encompasses stage, television and film. She stars as Anita Dupree, matriarch of Beyond the Gates, the new daytime television drama and first soap opera to center on an affluent Black family. She portrayed Cissy Houston, mother of the iconic Whitney Houston, in I Wanna Dance with Somebody and made her mark with memorable roles in Wall Street, City Hall, The Devil’s Advocate and Flight, opposite Denzel Washington, with whom she also starred on roadway as Calpurnia in Julius Caesar, Law & Order: SUV and As the World Turns. She is a director of film and theatre, an acclaimed vocalist, who launched her debut CD, Dreamsville, at the Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival. Ms. Tunie is the founder of Black Theatre United and sits on the boards of Harlem Stage/The Gatehouse and Pittsburgh’s The City Theatre Company. She holds a BFA Musical Theatre from Carnegie Mellon University and now serves on the Executive Committee of its Board of Trustees.
Antoine Fuqua is the director behind the films Training Day, The Magnificent Seven, The Equalizer series, Southpaw, Olympus Has Fallen, Brooklyn’s Finest, and King Arthur. He directed and executive produced the documentary American Dream/American Knightmare on the legendary Marion “Suge” Knight and directed the blues documentary Lightning in a Bottle. Through his production company, Fuqua Films, he generates content for both film and television including serving as executive producer on medical drama The Resident. He directed and executive produced the critically acclaimed documentary What’s My Name: Muhammad Ali, for HBO and produced the Roku Original Series #FreeRayshawn, starring Laurence Fishburne and Stephan James, which won two Emmy® awards and a 2021 NAACP Image Award. Fuqua’s other projects include Infinite Emancipation, Bullet Train, The Terminal List, The Guilty, as well as the recently announced Mike Tyson limited series and Michael, the 2026 biographical musical film on Michael Jackson.
Lamman Rucker is an actor, educator, activist and entrepreneur. He played Jacob Greenleaf in the OWN scripted television series Greenleaf and is known as the star of Tyler Perry’s Why Did I Get Married? film sequels and hit film/sitcom Meet the Browns. Rucker also made his mark in The Man in 3B, Black Coffee, Where is The Love? and daytime dramas As The World Turns and All My Children. A passionate activist, Rucker is a spokesperson for several charities and community action initiatives including American Heart Association, Art Creates Life, The Black AIDS Institute, The Magic Johnson Foundation and his non-profit The Black Gents, an all-male ensemble of actors driven to resurrect the positive images of Black males through thought-provoking, high-quality entertainment, youth empowerment initiatives, and community service.
Ayisha A. Morgan-Lee, EdD, at 21, became Founder, CEO & Artistic Director of Hill Dance Academy Theatre (HDAT), which was named A Pittsburgh Cultural Treasure in 2021. She advocates for social justice, equity, representation, and valuing the humanity of Black artists. Dr. M organ-Lee is the national board Chair of The International Association of Blacks in Dance (IABD), a recipient of the 2021 National Medal of Arts. She serves on Oakland Catholic High School and Pittsburgh Public Theater boards. She earned her Doctorate from the University of Pittsburgh, master’s in arts management from Carnegie Mellon University and BFA in Dance and Theatre from Howard University.
Monica Malik is the Founder and Principal of Monica Malik & Associates, a consulting firm specializing in community engagement, social impact strategy, and corporate branding and storytelling. With more than 20 years of experience across finance, healthcare, philanthropy, and entrepreneurship, she is known for advancing initiatives that expand workforce opportunities, strengthen the creative economy, and build authentic connections between institutions and communities. Her career began as a restaurant franchisee, where she created workforce pathways and championed economic mobility, later expanding her impact through healthcare and philanthropy. In the financial sector, Monica directed philanthropic funds to initiatives in arts and culture, education, and equity, while also leading branding and storytelling strategies that elevated organizational reputation and measurable community impact. She serves on the boards of the Andy Warhol Museum, Allegheny Regional Asset District, Goodwill of Southwestern Pennsylvania, Uptown Partners, and the Professional Women’s Network.
Tenel Dorsey is the visionary founder of the Dreamz Empire, a collective of businesses rooted in beauty, wellness, and community that includes Dreamz Hair Salon, Dreamz Hair Restoration, Café Asè and the Dreamz Foundation. She also leads H.E.R. (Heal, Evolve, Restore), a women’s empowerment organization offering retreats and holistic support. Since founding Dreamz Hair Salon in 2003, she has built more than a business; she has created a sanctuary where crowns are restored, confidence is sparked and lives are transformed. A trailblazer in wig artistry and hair restoration, Ms. Dorsey is one of the few salon owners with a National Provider Identifier, allowing her to accept health insurance for women battling medical-related hair loss. Through Dreamz Hair Restoration, launched in 2016, she has provided custom wigs and nationally used products that help women experiencing cancer, alopecia, and other conditions to reclaim their beauty. Her artistry extends to the stage as well, designing wigs for productions within Pittsburgh’s Cultural District and nationally. Born and raised in the historic Hill District, she discovered her gifts early, styling hair at age nine and developing her voice as a singer. She nurtured her creativity at Vann Elementary, Rogers middle school and CAPA, where she learned to embrace her talents without limits.
Marlon Gist is the co-owner and curator of Art & Soul Café and Gallery in downtown Pittsburgh. A talented artist native of Sewickley, who now calls Aliquippa his home, he was introduced to the world of art at a young age by his late father, David Gist Sr., who also was an exceptional artist. Mr. Gist’s passion for art led him to pursue a degree at The Columbus (Ohio) College of Art and Design. During his time there, he honed his craft in a wide range of mediums and styles, from abstract to realism. Now recognized as one of Pittsburgh's premier emerging artists, his artwork is on display across the United States. His unique style and attention to detail make his pieces truly remarkable, drawing in viewers from all walks of life. The artist’s work reflects his passion for art, his commitment to perfecting his craft and his love for creativity and expression. His unique perspective and diverse range of mediums and styles make him a standout artist in the Pittsburgh art scene. His dedication to his craft has earned him recognition as one of the top emerging artists in the region, and his work is sure to continue to captivate audiences for years to come.
TICKETS
Individual tickets for dinner, performances and the awards ceremony are $550; performance and awards only tickets are $150.
A limited number of tables and sponsorship packages are still available ($1500 - $25,000). Click here for details or contact Amanda Brandes, VP, Institutional Advancement for more information at [email protected] | 412-567-2956
“We are pleased to honor these seven cultural visionaries whose achievements embody Pittsburgh’s enduring legacy of innovation while serving as inspiration to future generations of artists,” said Janis Burley, AWAACC President/CEO and Artistic Director. “We present amazing artists on our stages, incredible art in our galleries and outstanding programs and events throughout the Center. To continue to do this, we need the support from our community to help us Fuel the Future. Join us at the Gala next month as we celebrate 15 years of creativity and commitment, and a future filled with the promise of building a stronger cultural legacy for us all.”
The Gala will include live performances by 2025 BUILD Artist-in-Residence Dan Wilson, returning to AWAACC with selected highlights from his sold out George Benson tribute concert, and music from the Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival All Stars Student Band, who made their debut at this year’s festival. Guests also can enjoy guided gallery tours featuring the highly anticipated return of Peju Alatise’s Flying Girls sculpture installation. The Gala dinner menu takes its inspiration from Dr. Jessica B. Harris, the celebrated culinary historian recently featured in the Center’s A Seat at Our Table series, honoring the traditions and creativity that shape Black cuisine.
“UPMC and UPMC Health Plan are proud to partner with the August Wilson African American Cultural Center to honor the enduring legacy of August Wilson,” said James E. Taylor, PhD, Senior Vice President & Chief Culture, Community, and Talent Management Officer at UPMC “As presenting sponsor of the Fuel the Future: Take Center Stage Gala, we celebrate 15 years of artistic excellence and community impact while helping to ensure that this world-class institution continues to inspire generations to come.”
ABOUT THE HONOREES
Tamara Tunie has a distinguished body of work that encompasses stage, television and film. She stars as Anita Dupree, matriarch of Beyond the Gates, the new daytime television drama and first soap opera to center on an affluent Black family. She portrayed Cissy Houston, mother of the iconic Whitney Houston, in I Wanna Dance with Somebody and made her mark with memorable roles in Wall Street, City Hall, The Devil’s Advocate and Flight, opposite Denzel Washington, with whom she also starred on roadway as Calpurnia in Julius Caesar, Law & Order: SUV and As the World Turns. She is a director of film and theatre, an acclaimed vocalist, who launched her debut CD, Dreamsville, at the Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival. Ms. Tunie is the founder of Black Theatre United and sits on the boards of Harlem Stage/The Gatehouse and Pittsburgh’s The City Theatre Company. She holds a BFA Musical Theatre from Carnegie Mellon University and now serves on the Executive Committee of its Board of Trustees.
Antoine Fuqua is the director behind the films Training Day, The Magnificent Seven, The Equalizer series, Southpaw, Olympus Has Fallen, Brooklyn’s Finest, and King Arthur. He directed and executive produced the documentary American Dream/American Knightmare on the legendary Marion “Suge” Knight and directed the blues documentary Lightning in a Bottle. Through his production company, Fuqua Films, he generates content for both film and television including serving as executive producer on medical drama The Resident. He directed and executive produced the critically acclaimed documentary What’s My Name: Muhammad Ali, for HBO and produced the Roku Original Series #FreeRayshawn, starring Laurence Fishburne and Stephan James, which won two Emmy® awards and a 2021 NAACP Image Award. Fuqua’s other projects include Infinite Emancipation, Bullet Train, The Terminal List, The Guilty, as well as the recently announced Mike Tyson limited series and Michael, the 2026 biographical musical film on Michael Jackson.
Lamman Rucker is an actor, educator, activist and entrepreneur. He played Jacob Greenleaf in the OWN scripted television series Greenleaf and is known as the star of Tyler Perry’s Why Did I Get Married? film sequels and hit film/sitcom Meet the Browns. Rucker also made his mark in The Man in 3B, Black Coffee, Where is The Love? and daytime dramas As The World Turns and All My Children. A passionate activist, Rucker is a spokesperson for several charities and community action initiatives including American Heart Association, Art Creates Life, The Black AIDS Institute, The Magic Johnson Foundation and his non-profit The Black Gents, an all-male ensemble of actors driven to resurrect the positive images of Black males through thought-provoking, high-quality entertainment, youth empowerment initiatives, and community service.
Ayisha A. Morgan-Lee, EdD, at 21, became Founder, CEO & Artistic Director of Hill Dance Academy Theatre (HDAT), which was named A Pittsburgh Cultural Treasure in 2021. She advocates for social justice, equity, representation, and valuing the humanity of Black artists. Dr. M organ-Lee is the national board Chair of The International Association of Blacks in Dance (IABD), a recipient of the 2021 National Medal of Arts. She serves on Oakland Catholic High School and Pittsburgh Public Theater boards. She earned her Doctorate from the University of Pittsburgh, master’s in arts management from Carnegie Mellon University and BFA in Dance and Theatre from Howard University.
Monica Malik is the Founder and Principal of Monica Malik & Associates, a consulting firm specializing in community engagement, social impact strategy, and corporate branding and storytelling. With more than 20 years of experience across finance, healthcare, philanthropy, and entrepreneurship, she is known for advancing initiatives that expand workforce opportunities, strengthen the creative economy, and build authentic connections between institutions and communities. Her career began as a restaurant franchisee, where she created workforce pathways and championed economic mobility, later expanding her impact through healthcare and philanthropy. In the financial sector, Monica directed philanthropic funds to initiatives in arts and culture, education, and equity, while also leading branding and storytelling strategies that elevated organizational reputation and measurable community impact. She serves on the boards of the Andy Warhol Museum, Allegheny Regional Asset District, Goodwill of Southwestern Pennsylvania, Uptown Partners, and the Professional Women’s Network.
Tenel Dorsey is the visionary founder of the Dreamz Empire, a collective of businesses rooted in beauty, wellness, and community that includes Dreamz Hair Salon, Dreamz Hair Restoration, Café Asè and the Dreamz Foundation. She also leads H.E.R. (Heal, Evolve, Restore), a women’s empowerment organization offering retreats and holistic support. Since founding Dreamz Hair Salon in 2003, she has built more than a business; she has created a sanctuary where crowns are restored, confidence is sparked and lives are transformed. A trailblazer in wig artistry and hair restoration, Ms. Dorsey is one of the few salon owners with a National Provider Identifier, allowing her to accept health insurance for women battling medical-related hair loss. Through Dreamz Hair Restoration, launched in 2016, she has provided custom wigs and nationally used products that help women experiencing cancer, alopecia, and other conditions to reclaim their beauty. Her artistry extends to the stage as well, designing wigs for productions within Pittsburgh’s Cultural District and nationally. Born and raised in the historic Hill District, she discovered her gifts early, styling hair at age nine and developing her voice as a singer. She nurtured her creativity at Vann Elementary, Rogers middle school and CAPA, where she learned to embrace her talents without limits.
Marlon Gist is the co-owner and curator of Art & Soul Café and Gallery in downtown Pittsburgh. A talented artist native of Sewickley, who now calls Aliquippa his home, he was introduced to the world of art at a young age by his late father, David Gist Sr., who also was an exceptional artist. Mr. Gist’s passion for art led him to pursue a degree at The Columbus (Ohio) College of Art and Design. During his time there, he honed his craft in a wide range of mediums and styles, from abstract to realism. Now recognized as one of Pittsburgh's premier emerging artists, his artwork is on display across the United States. His unique style and attention to detail make his pieces truly remarkable, drawing in viewers from all walks of life. The artist’s work reflects his passion for art, his commitment to perfecting his craft and his love for creativity and expression. His unique perspective and diverse range of mediums and styles make him a standout artist in the Pittsburgh art scene. His dedication to his craft has earned him recognition as one of the top emerging artists in the region, and his work is sure to continue to captivate audiences for years to come.
TICKETS
Individual tickets for dinner, performances and the awards ceremony are $550; performance and awards only tickets are $150.
A limited number of tables and sponsorship packages are still available ($1500 - $25,000). Click here for details or contact Amanda Brandes, VP, Institutional Advancement for more information at [email protected] | 412-567-2956
2025 FUEL THE FUTURE: TAKE CENTER STAGE GALA HOST COMMITTEE:
Co-Chairs
Derrick and Kelle Wilson, The Wilson Group
Corporate Chair
Kevin Walker, CEO, Duquesne Light Company
Aerion and Tamara Abney
Makayla & Emmai Alaquiva
Curtis Aiken
Khamil Bailey
Arthur L. Baldwin and the Honorable Cynthia A. Baldwin
Alison & Andrew Beam, UPMC
Jerad Bachar
Barata and Tammy Bey
Janis Burley and Erwin Campbell
Kanika and Jeff Capel
Debra Caplan
Jackie Dixon
Malesia Dunn
Dr. Edmund D. Effort DDS
Gretchen & William Generett Jr.
Keri Harmicar and David Benjamin Seman
Denise & Cain Hayes
Anna Hollis & Gregg Kander
Andrea T. & Glenn R. Mahone
David and Luci Massaro
Tracey McCants Lewis
Crystal McCormick Ware
Kenneth and Pamela McCrory
Sabrina Saunders Mosby and Brandon Mosby
Danielle Parson
Andre Perry
Herky Pollock and Lisa Acquaviva Pollock
Darlene L. and Robert J. Powell
Rex Rideout
Howard and April Russell
Shiv K. Sethi
Nia Sioux
Felicia E. Snead, MD
Neicy and Mark Clayton Southers
Morton Stanfield
Denise Turner
Jeremy Waldrup
Mike Walker
Dr. Wayne Walters
Geovette Washington and Jeffrey Robinson
Doris Carson Williams
Bobby and Deborah Wilson
Constanza Romero Wilson
Elise and Charles Yanders
Graphic Design by Landesberg Design
Co-Chairs
Derrick and Kelle Wilson, The Wilson Group
Corporate Chair
Kevin Walker, CEO, Duquesne Light Company
Aerion and Tamara Abney
Makayla & Emmai Alaquiva
Curtis Aiken
Khamil Bailey
Arthur L. Baldwin and the Honorable Cynthia A. Baldwin
Alison & Andrew Beam, UPMC
Jerad Bachar
Barata and Tammy Bey
Janis Burley and Erwin Campbell
Kanika and Jeff Capel
Debra Caplan
Jackie Dixon
Malesia Dunn
Dr. Edmund D. Effort DDS
Gretchen & William Generett Jr.
Keri Harmicar and David Benjamin Seman
Denise & Cain Hayes
Anna Hollis & Gregg Kander
Andrea T. & Glenn R. Mahone
David and Luci Massaro
Tracey McCants Lewis
Crystal McCormick Ware
Kenneth and Pamela McCrory
Sabrina Saunders Mosby and Brandon Mosby
Danielle Parson
Andre Perry
Herky Pollock and Lisa Acquaviva Pollock
Darlene L. and Robert J. Powell
Rex Rideout
Howard and April Russell
Shiv K. Sethi
Nia Sioux
Felicia E. Snead, MD
Neicy and Mark Clayton Southers
Morton Stanfield
Denise Turner
Jeremy Waldrup
Mike Walker
Dr. Wayne Walters
Geovette Washington and Jeffrey Robinson
Doris Carson Williams
Bobby and Deborah Wilson
Constanza Romero Wilson
Elise and Charles Yanders
Graphic Design by Landesberg Design
ABOUT UPMC
UPMC is a world-renowned, nonprofit health care provider and insurer committed to delivering exceptional, people-centered care and community services. Headquartered in Pittsburgh and affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences, UPMC is shaping the future of health through clinical and technological innovation, research, and education. Dedicated to advancing the well-being of our diverse communities, we provide nearly $2 billion annually in community benefits, more than any other health system in Pennsylvania. Our 100,000 employees — including more than 5,000 physicians — care for patients across more than 40 hospitals and 800 outpatient sites in Pennsylvania, New York, and Maryland, as well as overseas. UPMC Insurance Services covers more than 4 million members, providing affordable, high-quality, value-based care. To learn more, visit UPMC.com.
ABOUT AUGUST WILSON AFRICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER
The August Wilson African American Cultural Center is a nonprofit cultural organization located in Pittsburgh’s cultural district that generates artistic, educational, and community initiatives that advance the legacy of Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright August Wilson.
One of the largest cultural centers in the country focused exclusively on the African American experience and the celebration of Black culture and the African diaspora, the non-profit organization welcomes more than 100,000 visitors locally and nationally. Through year-round programming across multiple genres, such as the annual Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival, Black Bottom Film Festival, AWCommunity Days, TRUTHSayers speaker series, and rotating art exhibits in its galleries, the Center provides a platform for established and emerging artists of color whose work reflects the universal issues of identity that Wilson tackled, and which still resonate today.
Major support for AWAACC’s operations is provided by Richard King Mellon Foundation, Henry L. Hillman Foundation, Heinz Endowments, and the Allegheny Regional Asset District (RAD). AWAACC’s programming is made possible by generous support from its donors. For a complete list, visit the website: awaacc.org
For more information on programs at the August Wilson African American Cultural Center and the Fuel the Future: Take Center Stage Gala, log on to www.awaacc.org .
# # #
UPMC is a world-renowned, nonprofit health care provider and insurer committed to delivering exceptional, people-centered care and community services. Headquartered in Pittsburgh and affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences, UPMC is shaping the future of health through clinical and technological innovation, research, and education. Dedicated to advancing the well-being of our diverse communities, we provide nearly $2 billion annually in community benefits, more than any other health system in Pennsylvania. Our 100,000 employees — including more than 5,000 physicians — care for patients across more than 40 hospitals and 800 outpatient sites in Pennsylvania, New York, and Maryland, as well as overseas. UPMC Insurance Services covers more than 4 million members, providing affordable, high-quality, value-based care. To learn more, visit UPMC.com.
ABOUT AUGUST WILSON AFRICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER
The August Wilson African American Cultural Center is a nonprofit cultural organization located in Pittsburgh’s cultural district that generates artistic, educational, and community initiatives that advance the legacy of Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright August Wilson.
One of the largest cultural centers in the country focused exclusively on the African American experience and the celebration of Black culture and the African diaspora, the non-profit organization welcomes more than 100,000 visitors locally and nationally. Through year-round programming across multiple genres, such as the annual Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival, Black Bottom Film Festival, AWCommunity Days, TRUTHSayers speaker series, and rotating art exhibits in its galleries, the Center provides a platform for established and emerging artists of color whose work reflects the universal issues of identity that Wilson tackled, and which still resonate today.
Major support for AWAACC’s operations is provided by Richard King Mellon Foundation, Henry L. Hillman Foundation, Heinz Endowments, and the Allegheny Regional Asset District (RAD). AWAACC’s programming is made possible by generous support from its donors. For a complete list, visit the website: awaacc.org
For more information on programs at the August Wilson African American Cultural Center and the Fuel the Future: Take Center Stage Gala, log on to www.awaacc.org .
# # #
Media Contacts:
Khalil Waldron, Director - Marketing and Communications, AWAACC
(412) 742-4771 | [email protected]
Carolyn McClair PR
(212) 721-3341 | [email protected]
Khalil Waldron, Director - Marketing and Communications, AWAACC
(412) 742-4771 | [email protected]
Carolyn McClair PR
(212) 721-3341 | [email protected]
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