For 25 years, The Kansas African American Museum (TKAAM) has celebrated the individuals who have pushed boundaries, lifted their communities, and helped define the African American experience in Kansas and beyond. Through its Trailblazers program, TKAAM recognizes pioneers whose excellence and perseverance have paved the way for future generations.
“This is more than an anniversary—it’s a celebration of legacy, leadership, and limitless potential,” said TKAAM Executive Director Shane Carter. “Our 2025 Trailblazers Hall of Fame honorees have shown us what it means to lead with vision and impact with purpose. They reflect the brilliance and resilience that has shaped the African American experience in Kansas for generations. Their stories elevate our shared history and inspire the future. This 25th year is not just about looking back—it’s about building forward.”
A Legacy of Honoring Pioneers
The Trailblazers program began in 2000 with a simple mission: honor Kansas African Americans whose contributions have helped shape history. After recognizing its second class in 2002, the program returned in 2009 as an annual tribute — and has grown into one of TKAAM’s signature celebrations. Each Trailblazer is inducted into a prestigious “Hall of Fame,” placing their achievements among the state’s most influential legacy builders.
The program honors individuals across four categories — education/philanthropy, aviation/STEM, performing arts, and sports — along with a Posthumous Trailblazer for those whose impact continues to resonate long after their passing.
Since 2020, the celebration has been produced as a televised and streaming broadcast, ensuring wide access to these powerful stories. Dates for this year’s program are expected to be announced in November.
Meet the 2025 Trailblazers
This year’s distinguished class includes leaders who have excelled on world stages, created new pathways in their professions, and used their influence to uplift others.
Kiah Duggins – “Rising Star” Award
Civil Rights Attorney & Professor (Posthumously)
A Harvard-educated lawyer with a passion for justice, Duggins dedicated her career to advancing civil rights and combating systemic inequity. Her service spanned both local and national arenas — from the White House to the Civil Rights Corps. Most recently, she was poised to shape new generations of advocates as a law professor at Howard University. Though her time was cut short, her legacy as a brilliant strategist and community champion continues to inspire.
Harold Miller – Aviation & STEM Trailblazer
Former Air Traffic Controller, Wichita Tower
Miller broke barriers as the first African American air traffic controller in the Wichita Tower, joining the small 1–2% of Black controllers nationwide. His rise to supervisor in the Central Region’s air traffic division represents a milestone achievement in aviation leadership. Throughout his career, Miller overcame adversity with resilience — a message he now shares as a mentor committed to motivating youth and strengthening his church community.
Adrian Griffin – Sports Trailblazer
Professional Basketball Coach & Former NBA Player
From Wichita East High School standout to NBA athlete and coach, Griffin has built an exceptional sports career. After playing for multiple NBA teams — including the Boston Celtics and Dallas Mavericks — he transitioned to coaching, serving as head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks and assistant coach for several NBA and USA Basketball teams. A Kansas Sports Hall of Famer with a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership, Griffin continues to combine academic insight with athletic excellence.
M. Lee Pelton – Education & Philanthropy Trailblazer
President & CEO, The Boston Foundation
Pelton leads the Boston Foundation, one of the nation’s most influential philanthropic organizations, stewarding $2.2 billion in assets to drive impact at scale. A respected former president of Emerson College and Willamette University, Pelton believes higher education must help solve the world’s most urgent challenges. His work — recognized nationally with numerous awards — reflects a lifelong commitment to both institutional transformation and community uplift.
Dr. Eva Jessye – Performing Arts Trailblazer
Choral Conductor, Composer & Cultural Visionary (Posthumously)
Born in Coffeyville, Kansas, Dr. Eva Jessye became one of the most influential choral directors of the 20th century. A gifted arranger, writer, and composer, she elevated African American spirituals and folk traditions into internationally celebrated art forms.
Her ensemble — originally the Dixie Jubilee Singers and later renamed the Eva Jessye Choir — became the first recognized African American professional chorus in the United States. Under her direction, the choir performed a wide spectrum of music including spirituals, jazz, ragtime, ballads, and original compositions, making appearances in radio, film, and major theatrical productions.
A Celebration That Inspires the Future
“Each honoree has made an extraordinary contribution to our state’s cultural, civic, and social fabric,” Carter said. “Their achievements remind us why this celebration matters—not only to honor the past but to inspire the future. We’re excited to share their stories with the community and continue the proud tradition of recognizing Kansas’ Black excellence.”
As TKAAM prepares to announce broadcast dates for the 2025 Tribute to Trailblazers, the museum invites the community to reflect on these accomplishments — and to continue supporting a legacy of leadership that builds toward a better future for all.
