FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

900 Men Strong Announces 15th Annual Scholarship and Community Service Awards Breakfast - Applications Now Open

Norfolk, VA - January 29, 2026 - 900 Men Strong proudly announces the 15th Annual 900 Men Strong Scholarship and Community Service Awards Breakfast, set for Saturday, April 11, 2026, at the Chesapeake Conference Center. This year’s event will feature The Honorable Jay Jones as keynote speaker and will celebrate outstanding scholarship, leadership, and service in our community.

About 900 Men Strong and the W.H. Gray Men’s Ministry: 

900 Men Strong is an initiative of Second Calvary Baptist Church’s W.H. Gray Men’s Ministry, which is proud to sponsor the Annual 900 Men Strong Scholarship and Community Service Awards Breakfast. In keeping with our theme and purpose, "Making a Difference through Education," we will award scholarships to male high school students working toward academic excellence at the post-secondary level. We will also honor distinguished men who have made significant contributions toward the advancement of our community, especially those dedicated to helping youth and others throughout Hampton Roads.

Our Impact:

• 92 male high school seniors awarded over $100,000 in scholarships, supporting their pursuit of post-secondary education

• 49 distinguished men honored for their contributions to the communities and families of Hampton Roads

• 7,000 men and young boys have attended this event over the years

About the Keynote Speaker: The Honorable Jay Jones

Born and raised in Norfolk, Jay Jones follows his family’s legacy of civil rights activism and community leadership. A graduate of William & Mary and UVA Law School, Jones served within the Virginia House of Delegates representing Chesapeake and Suffolk prior to being elected as Virginia’s 49th Attorney General. Jones is the first Black Attorney General in Virginia’s history.

Emcee: Comedian Cletus Kassady

We are excited to welcome comedian Kletus Cassidy as our emcee for the morning, bringing energy and entertainment to this special celebration.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, April 11, 2026

• Time: 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. (Doors open at 7:30 a.m.)

• Location: Chesapeake Conference Center, 700 Conference Center Dr, Chesapeake, VA 23320

• Tickets: $50, available now at 900MenStrong.org

The annual breakfast offers an inspiring morning of empowerment, networking, and recognition of those making a difference in Hampton Roads and beyond. Proceeds from the event directly support scholarships for deserving students and vital community service initiatives.

Scholarship Application Period Now Open:

Applications are now being accepted for the 900 Men Strong Scholarship. Eligible students are encouraged to apply and take advantage of this opportunity for academic and personal growth. Full submission details, eligibility criteria, and deadlines can be found at 900MenStrong.org.

Sponsorship Opportunities:

Sponsorship opportunities are available for organizations and individuals who wish to support our mission. Packages and benefits are available on our website. For more information, contact info@900menstrong.org or Keith Hubbard at 757-470-8607.

About 900 Men Strong:

900 Men Strong is dedicated to uplifting the community through education, mentorship, and service. The organization’s annual awards breakfast is a cornerstone event, honoring those who exemplify excellence and commitment to making a positive impact.

For media inquiries, interview requests, or more information, please contact: 

Ebonee Pope, Enjenuity Media

info@enjenuitymedia.com or 757-275-8125

Join us as we honor achievement, invest in our youth, and celebrate service at the 15th Annual 900 Men Strong Scholarship and Community Service Awards Breakfast!