C.T. Vivian Foundation to Host 2025 Kaleidoscope Awards for Literary Excellence

Atlanta, January 9, 2025 – The C.T. Vivian Foundation proudly announces the 2025 Kaleidoscope Awards for Literary Excellence fundraiser, set to take place on April 17, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta. This premier event will honor celebrated literary icons Jelani Cobb, Patrick Phillips, and Margaret Burnham, as well as social justice advocate Dr. Bernard LaFayette, Jr. The evening will also feature the presentation of significant scholarships through the Octavia Vivian Scholarship Program, awarding tens of thousands of dollars to deserving students.

Now in its fourth year, the Kaleidoscope Awards serve as the Foundation’s signature fundraiser, celebrating authors whose works highlight the richness and complexity of the Black experience.

"The Kaleidoscope Awards for Literary Excellence is more than a gala; it’s a celebration of the voices that illuminate the African American experience with unparalleled artistry and passion,” said Jo Vivian, Executive Director of the C.T. Vivian Foundation.  “This inspiring evening not only honors literary icons but also supports the next generation of changemakers through the Octavia Vivian Scholarship Program, empowering college-bound high school seniors and students already pursuing higher education. Your participation fuels our mission to champion literacy, education, and the preservation of Black literature and history. Join us for a night of brilliance and purpose, where your support makes a lasting impact." 

The event will begin at 6:00 p.m. with a lively reception featuring live music and a silent auction, followed by a seated dinner, entertainment, and the awards ceremony. The program will also include musical performances by EQ Quarles & Mike Tarpley. 

Key sponsors for this year’s event include Delta Air Lines, Georgia-Pacific, Georgia Power, and  the National Association of Chinese Americans. The 2025 host committee includes George Andrews, Jay Bailey, Taylor Branch, Bill Campbell, Rev. Gerald Durley, Valerie Jackson, Tayari Jones, Hank Klibanoff, Amanda Brown Olmstead, Elisabeth Omilami, Jay Scott, Dominic Stokes, and Ernie Suggs. 

Tickets are available now at 2025 Kaleidoscope Awards for Literary Excellence Fundraiser. For more information on the event and honorees, visit the C.T. Vivian Foundation website at https://ctvivianfoundation.org/events/. For sponsorship opportunities, please contact [email protected].