Fort Bend County Judge KP George celebrated the legacy, achievements, and contributions of African Americans in Fort Bend County with a host of celebrations throughout February.

Judge George hosted a celebration on Monday, February 27, to honor local African Americans who have made significant contributions to the community.

The honorees included: Texas State House Representative (D27) Ron Reynolds, Fort Bend County Commissioner Precinct 2 Grady Prestage, Fort Bend County Commissioner Precinct 4 Dexter McCoy, Thurgood Marshall High School Boys’ Basketball Coach Ronnie Courtney, Willowridge High School Girls’ Basketball Coach Tiffany Collins, the Black Cowboy Legacy Committee Founder Debra Greenwood-Sharp, Founder and Executive Director of the Edison Arts Foundation Charity Carter, Lead Principal and Business Development Ambassador at Intuitive Global Consulting Angelique Bartholomew, and a posthumous recognition to the late Missouri City Councilman and founder of the Missouri City Juneteenth Celebration Foundation Don Smith.

"I am proud to say that Fort Bend County has the most diverse community in its history and that is something to be proud of,” said Judge KP George. “Black history month is an opportunity to learn and educate others on the contributions that African Americans have and continue to make in the county and beyond.”

In addition to this event, Judge George held a Black History Oratory Contest for grades 3-8. On the evening of February 28, a ceremony was held at the Historic Courthouse to announce the winners of the contest. Thomas Kannala of Stanley Elementary was the first-place winner in the elementary division and Elizabeth Kennedy Ellison of the Imani School was the first-place winner in the middle school division.

Additionally, on February 17, Judge George in collaboration with the Fort Bend Judiciary hosted a celebration of the history of African Americans in Fort Bend County.