Urban League Honors Ten St. Louis Media Professionals

The local organization celebrates journalists and entertainers for their contributions to the community.

Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in African-American

Urban League Honors Ten St. Louis Media Professionals

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The Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis is honoring 10 media professionals, including The St. Louis American's Kenya Vaughn. These figures are being recognized for their significant roles in journalism, entertainment, and service to the region.

Why it matters

The recognition highlights the essential work of local media professionals in shaping community discourse and documenting important stories within St. Louis. It serves to acknowledge those who consistently contribute to the local cultural landscape.

A total of 10 media professionals were selected for this year's recognition. Previous recipients of this honor include Wiley Price.

The players

Kenya Vaughn

She serves as the arts and entertainment editor of The St. Louis American.

Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis

This local organization works to empower African Americans and others in the community through various social and economic programs.

Carol Daniel

She is a veteran St. Louis broadcaster and journalist who will serve as the event emcee.

Wiley Price

He is a photographer and former recipient of this recognition who has contributed to local media for decades.

The details

Honorees including Damon Arnold, Jay Gill, Morgan Harris, DJ Kut, Jasmine Osby, Tani Robbin-Coker, Cam Rhodes, Denisha Thomas, and Malik Wilson will be recognized at a formal luncheon. Carol Daniel is set to serve as the event emcee during the ceremony held at the Marriott St. Louis Grand Hotel.

The Urban League Salute to Blacks in Media Luncheon takes place on October 15, 2026.

Culture Shift

This event aligns with the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis mission of advancing economic and social equity by elevating local voices in the media sector. It reflects a broader trend of institutions formalizing the recognition of community-based storytelling and journalistic excellence.

The luncheon brings together prominent local media figures for a networking and recognition opportunity in downtown St. Louis. Residents interested in local media and community advocacy can observe how these professionals influence the region's public dialogue.

The takeaway

Celebrating local journalists and media professionals reinforces the value of community-based reporting in St. Louis. Readers can support this work by engaging with local outlets that provide critical coverage of neighborhood events and cultural developments.