June 9
TD Pavilion

Voices of Hope: An Event in Celebration of Black Excellence returns to our stage on June 9, 2025! This annual event honors Philadelphia’s trailblazers who embody a culture of compassion and positive change. In 2025, Voices of Hope explores the theme "We Rise: Perseverance, Strength, and Determination." This year’s honorees embody these values, uplifting and guiding the Philadelphia community and beyond through their dedication and leadership.

This year, the Mann celebrates the following honorees:

• Representative Jordan A. Harris
  186th District, Pennsylvania House of Representatives
• Dr. Tony B. Watlington Sr.
  Superintendent, The School District of Philadelphia
• Rosalyn J. McPherson
  President & CEO, The ROZ Group, Inc
• The Links, Incorporated
  Zakiya Black Barnett, President, Philadelphia Chapter 
  Kimberly Bridges-White, President, Penn Towne Chapter
  Renee Smith, President, Delaware Valley Chapter

100.3 WRNB host and journalist Ashley Maclin, also known as ASHMAC, will host the ceremony. Dixie James, President, Central Region of Jefferson Health, will deliver the keynote speech. The evening will also feature various musical performances by Philadelphia-based artists, curated by hip-hop artist Chill Moody.

Complimentary light refreshments are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Prelude in the Plaza
In partnership with Mural Arts
Community Mural Activity
DJ FaxOnly

Welcome Remarks
Ashley Maclin, also known as, Ash Mac
Ceremony Host

Opening Remarks
Catherine M. Cahill
President & CEO, Mann Center for the Performing Arts

Artist Performance
Lou Williams Jr.
Kayla Childs

Keynote Speaker
Dixie James
Central Region President, Jefferson Health

Voices of Hope Innovation Award for Community Impact
Representative Jordan A. Harris
186th District, Pennsylvania House of Representatives

Artist Performance
Balmour

Voices of Hope Innovation Award for Inspirational Excellence
Dr. Tony B. Watlington, Sr.
Superintendent, The School District of Philadelphia

Voices of Hope Innovation Award for Cultural Advocacy
Rosalyn J. McPherson
President & CEO, The ROZ Group, Inc

Artist Performance
Stephan Burse

Voices of Hope Innovation Award for Community Convener
The Links, Incorporated
PHILADELPHIA CHAPTER
Zakiya Black Barnett, President
PENN TOWNE CHAPTER
Kimberly Bridges-White, President
DELAWARE VALLEY CHAPTER
Renee Smith, President

Artist Performance
Carla Gamble

Closing Remarks
Ashley Maclin, also known as, Ash Mac