Jacksonville Image Awards finalists announced, recognizing excellence in the local African American community

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The finalists for the 2024 Jacksonville Image Awards have been selected, and the awards ceremony will be here before you know it. It’s the fifth year for this event and we are excited.

Graham Media Group Jacksonville (WJXT/WCWJ) will once again partner with The Porter Firm to host the awards ceremony on February 3, 2024. The Wilson Center for the Arts on the Florida State College at Jacksonville’s South Campus is where the ceremony will be held. Doors open at 5 p.m. and the event begins at 6 p.m.

Awards will be given out to one finalist in the following categories: Trailblazer, One to Watch, Rising Star, Be the Change, Be Yourself, Music Excellence, Innovator, Education Excellence and the Pinnacle Award.

This year’s finalists for the Trailblazer Award are Terrie Cooper, Shana Carter and Suzanne Picket. This award recognizes pioneers who inspire others to follow their path to greatness with innovative ideas that challenge the status quo.

The One to Watch Award finalists are: Erin Anthony, Tajonda Bradley and Rodney Wells. The finalist for the Rising Star Award is Karlie King. For the Be The Change Award, the finalists are: Erica Rose Carnegie, Henry Green and Shontae Jackson. For Music Excellence, the finalists are: Sherrod Brown and Tracy Morris. The Innovator Award finalists are: Chief Greg Burton, Haraka Carswell and John Noel Sr. The finalists for the Education Excellence Award are: Cierra Barker, Dr. Tracy Oliver and Angela Seabrook.

And, the finalists for the Pinnacle Award are: Janice Ancrum, Lorrie Sarver and Michele Godfrey Watson. This award recognizes those who have achieved professional accomplishments throughout an extensive career and are role models for others to attain similar success.

This event will feature a gold-carpet arrival and photo shoot, cocktail hour with delicious hors d’oeuvres created by local restaurants and businesses. The Jacksonville Image Awards gala will feature musical performances from Meachum L. Clarke & Company.

The Jacksonville Image Awards were created to herald the accomplishments of Black humanitarians who have succeeded against immense odds. Special recognition is given to the few, representing the many who have overcome adversity. This is a one-of-a-kind community recognition program hosted by News4JAX anchors Tarik Minor and Melanie Lawson.

“At WJXT/WCWJ, we believe in the power of celebrating success and inspiring our community. The Jacksonville Image Awards stand as a testament to our commitment to honor individuals and organizations in the African American community. Through recognizing achievements and positive impact, we aim to inspire, educate, and enlighten everyone we reach. Success is not just a personal milestone; it’s a beacon that guides and uplifts us all. Join us in celebrating those who exemplify excellence, consistency, and a dedication to supporting the success of others, for they are the true architects of a thriving community,” said Terri Cope Walton, WJXT/WCWJ Vice President and General Manager.

Tickets are $95 and can be purchased online at the FSCJ Artist Series website.