PURPOSE:

The Jacksonville Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., established the Distinguished Pillar Award to recognize Unsung Heroes in our community. We have established the following nomination categories to maximize recognition:

• School: This category allows 6th-12th grade public, private, charter, and virtual school students an opportunity to nominate an administrator, educator, or support staff member who has made major contributions within the field of education. 
• Community: This category allows a peer, parent, or community member the opportunity to nominate an outstanding volunteer, business person, or entrepreneur who has been instrumental in initiating or leading efforts to benefit and significantly impact the Jacksonville and surrounding areas.
• Finance: This category allows a peer, parent, or community member the opportunity to nominate someone who has been a key player in promoting of all aspects of the financial system, including but not limited to, budgeting, home ownership, personal and community wealth, financial management, entrepreneurship, and the steps to financial freedom.
• Global: This category allows a peer, parent, or community member the opportunity to nominate someone who is involved in projects, globally, with an increased interest in international affairs, and aiding in the development of people from different backgrounds and cultures.
• Health: This category allows a peer, parent, or community member the opportunity to nominate someone who is engaged in health programs and activities that educate and facilitate lifestyle changes and awareness for the physical, mental, and spiritual well-being of our communities.
• Social Action: This category allows a peer, parent, or community member the opportunity to nominate someone who has created initiatives to help address a variety of social action issues, disparities and inequalities faced in the African-American community, such as: voter registration, education and mobilization, candidate forums and Census promotion.

NOMINATION PROCESS:

To nominate an Unsung Hero for our 2026 Distinguished Pillar Award, please complete the application below and include the following information: 

• The Nominee must be an African-American male or female in Duval, St. Johns or Nassau County.
• Describe the Nominee's specific area(s) of activities, programs and involvement in the Jacksonville area or communities served. Explain what they do and why you are nominating them. (500 words or less)
• Provide a detailed statement of the Nominee's outstanding accomplishments and impact in the nomination category. (500 words or less)
• Attach other supporting information and/or documentation of the Nominee's demonstrated accomplishments (i.e.,  newspaper articles, professional journals, letters, magazine and internet articles, awards, etc.).

All required information must be included in your application submission in order for your Nominee to be considered for the award. Incomplete submissions will be deemed ineligible. Please review your completed application carefully before pressing the submit button to forward the application to our Award Selection Committee.

Upon the committee's receipt of your nomination, your Nominee will be contacted and requested to provide a resume, curriculum vitae, or bio (1-2 pages).  

NOMINATION SUBMISSION DEADLINE:

Nomination forms should be submitted electronically via the submit button below. The submission deadline is February 14, 2026. Nominations received after February 14, 2026 will NOT be considered by the Award Selection Committee. 

Should you have any questions, you may contact us at dstjaxmayweek@gmail.com. 

Thank you for acknowledging the heroes in our midst. Best of luck to your Nominee!