Announcing the 2026 Black History Month Banner Honorees!

The City of Terre Haute’s Human Relations Commission is proud to introduce the 2026 class of Black History Month Banner Honorees. This year's class is comprised of 9 extraordinary individuals whose leadership, service, and impact have helped shape our community.

2026 Honorees:

A. Theressa Bynum – Civil Rights Advocate, NAACP Leader, Mentor

Carl Ross – Hero, Saved 51 Lives

Donald E. Turner – Activist, Artist, Educator

Dr. I. Herman Sloss – Doctor, NAACP Leader, Civic Advocate, Founder of Sloss Hospital

Dr. James Conyers, PhD – Educator, Sociologist, Civil Rights Mentor

Ellis Mills – Founder of Big Shoe BBQ, Beloved Community Restaurateur

Trannie Grainger – Educator, Student Advocate, Mentor

Valerie Hart-Craig – Educator, Mentor, Community Leader

Det. Huerta Tribble (Mayor’s Choice) – The First African American Detective for the City of Terre Haute

The Mayor’s Choice honoree is personally selected by Mayor Brandon Sakbun to recognize an individual whose service reflects the values and vision of Terre Haute.

This year’s honorees were selected from 43 community nominations and evaluated by a diverse committee using a structured rubric to recognize exceptional contributions. These remarkable leaders represent fields including education, healthcare, civic leadership, arts, business, and social advocacy. Their stories will be highlighted on banners displayed throughout downtown Terre Haute during Black History Month and celebrated on the City’s Facebook page in February.

The Honoree Reception will be held on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at 5:30 PM at the Vigo County History Center, and the Banner Unveiling Ceremony will take place on Friday, January 30, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the corner of 7th Street and Wabash Avenue.