Who will be the 2026 Unity Award Recipient?

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.’s Delta Iota Lambda Chapter will host its 40th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. “Unity” Award Breakfast on Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, at 7 a.m. at the Columbus Ironworks Convention Center, continuing a decades-long tradition of honoring King’s legacy through service, scholarship and community unity.

The annual breakfast, held each year on the third Monday in January, has become one of Columbus’ most anticipated Martin Luther King Jr. observances. This year’s featured speaker is the Rev. Dr. Herman “Skip” Mason Jr., a nationally respected civil rights leader and pastor known for his work in faith-based activism and community empowerment.

Hosted by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity’s Delta Iota Lambda Chapter, the Unity Award Breakfast has raised scholarship funds for local students while also serving as a platform to recognize individuals and organizations that promote cooperation and progress across racial, economic and social lines.

Since 1987, beginning with former Columbus mayor and mayor pro tempore A.J. McClung, the chapter has used the Unity Award to spotlight leaders whose work has strengthened the community and advanced economic, social and academic opportunities for its citizens. Organizers say the award reflects Dr. King’s vision of collective responsibility and shared purpose.

The 2025 Unity Award recipient was Greg Countryman, recognized for his efforts to foster collaboration and public service within Muscogee County. The 2026 honoree will be announced during Monday’s program.

The breakfast is part of a broader slate of local events commemorating the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr., emphasizing unity, leadership and service as guiding principles for the community.