The Arkansas Black Hall of Fame officially announced its Class of 2026 inductees during a morning event in Little Rock, setting the stage for its upcoming autumn celebration. Foundation leaders outlined the honorees and shared full logistical details for the 32nd annual induction ceremony during the gathering.
The announcement took place at 10 a.m. at the Statehouse Convention Center Rotunda located at 101 E. Markham St., according to a news release from the Arkansas Black Hall of Fame Foundation. Foundation President Charles Stewart and Brian Oaks, senior vice president of the Little Rock Convention and Visitors Bureau, jointly revealed the details to the public.
Honoring Extraordinary Regional and National Impact
While a preliminary roster of inductees was initially released in June, Tuesday’s formal presentation locked in the official lineup for the year. The Class of 2026 features Joe Marcus Johnson, Frank A. James, Shirley N. Miller, alongside Rebecca “Becky” Finney and Darrell Finney.
“This year’s honorees have distinguished themselves through achievements in health, sports, business, government, civil rights and education, leaving an indelible mark on Arkansas and the nation,” the official foundation release stated.
The inductees represent a diverse array of fields, highlighting the expansive reach of African American leadership originating from or deeply tied to the Natural State.
Ceremony Details and Public Participation
Following the morning roll-call revelation, Stewart and Oaks shifted focus to the logistics of the upcoming gala event. The 32nd annual Arkansas Black Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Show is scheduled to take place at the Robinson Center on Oct. 24, with proceedings set to begin at 7:30 p.m.
Organizers confirmed that public tickets for the induction ceremony and accompanying show are currently available for purchase through the official Arkansas Black Hall of Fame Foundation website.
As preparations ramp up for the Oct. 24 event at the Robinson Center, community members, families, and supporters are encouraged to secure admission early. Share your thoughts on this year’s class or join the conversation in the comments below.
