Night of Excellence: A Powerful Ending to Black History Month

Henderson County Public Library’s Night of Excellence was an evening dedicated to celebrating the achievements and contributions of outstanding African American Hendersonians, both past and present.

By
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Opinion
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March 5, 2026

On Friday, February 27, 2026, I had the pleasure and honor of attending the Henderson County Public Library’s Night of Excellence — an evening dedicated to celebrating the achievements and contributions of outstanding African American Hendersonians, both past and present.

I was there in honor of my cousin, Susan Morgan, who suddenly passed away on Christmas Day in 2025. She was scheduled to receive an award that evening and was recognized posthumously. Susan was one of five individuals honored for their contributions and achievements. The other recipients included Lori Sanners, Rose Mary Taylor (also honored posthumously), Darlene Ware, and Donald Banks.

The evening was further enriched by the keynote speaker, Jim Coleman, who delivered a powerful and engaging message. Coleman wove together a story of resilience, persistence, faith, and opportunity, encouraging the audience to focus on “controlling the controllables” in order to pursue what they are destined to do. His remarks blended humor and heartfelt storytelling, referencing figures such as Justice Thurgood Marshall and former Vice President Kamala Harris, along with reflections on HBCU history and even an all-organic farm.

At one point during his speech, I realized I had tears in my eyes. Before I knew it, the entire room was on its feet giving him a standing ovation. I’m someone who is often ready to quietly slip away from events early, but instead I found myself waiting to get his book signed and asking for a business card so I could arrange a visit for our Memorial CDC garden youth employees this summer.

Following the speech, the awards were presented. The first two honors were given posthumously, followed by three awards recognizing individuals who continue to serve and uplift the Henderson community. As my cousin’s biography was read and her daughter, Omni, accepted the award on her behalf, emotions again filled the room. One recipient even shared that her mother had passed earlier that very day.

In that moment, I felt tears forming once more. Yet what stood out most was the overwhelming sense of love, respect, and joy that filled the room. It was a celebration not only of those still with us, but also of those who came before us, individuals who lived out what God had called them to do.

It was, without a doubt, a powerful way to end Black History Month.

Author
Serita Cabell

Serita D. Cabell, the Executive Director of the Memorial Community Development Corporation, is dedicated to leveraging her administrative expertise to guide and inspire individuals and organizations toward enhanced productivity and efficiency. A native of Evansville, Ms. Cabell earned both her Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees from the University of Evansville.

With over twenty years of experience in the non-profit sector, she has participated in a wide range of trainings, meetings, and networking events focused on non-profits and community development. These include grant writing, prenatal care, prevention programming, smoking cessation, IRS and United Way tax training, facility management, family support programs, Christian community development, micro-finance, executive director training, and low-income housing tax credits. As the strategic leader of Our Times, Ms. Cabell ensures that the publication meets the needs of its readers by overseeing essential operational aspects. She is also a contributing writer, covering current events, social issues affecting the local community, and empowering stories about the Black community. In addition to her role at the Memorial Community Development Corporation, Ms. Cabell serves on the boards of United Way, Ivy Tech, and the Area Planning Commission. She has received numerous local and statewide awards and continues to serve her community with dedication and humility.

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