2026 National Finalists

Kevin is an accomplished educator in science and engineering with experience as an instructor at Chicago State University, adjunct professor at the Indiana Institute of Technology, and Dean of Instruction and Online Learning at the City Colleges of Chicago. As director of programs and events at NACME, Inc., he leads initiatives to promote scholarships and support undergraduate students pursuing degrees in engineering and computer science.

Dr. Brandynicole is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with twenty years of experience in trauma-informed care and leadership development. As CEO of Dr. Brandynicole, LLC, she leads initiatives supporting trauma-informed leadership, diversity, and inclusion, and is the founder of The Complete Compassion Project and Sleep Sweet Junebug, Inc. She holds a Master of Social Work from The University of Alabama, dual bachelor’s degrees from Hardin-Simmons University, and a PhD in Organizational Leadership from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.

Dr. Nicholas is a national leader at the intersection of HIV policy, LGBTQ+ rights, veteran equity, and artificial intelligence. As founder of the Global Trans Equity Project and the Veterans Equity Project, he leads initiatives expanding HIV prevention, PrEP access, mental health resources, and reproductive justice for marginalized communities. With Capitol Hill lobbying experience through Advocates for Trans Equality and more than 100 state delegates, he has advanced federal and state policy on HIV, transgender rights, veterans’ care, and reproductive health. He also develops AI-driven public health programs and hosts Focal Point with Dr. Elijah Nicholas on CBS Atlanta, using research and storytelling to inform policy and strengthen community impact.

Brothers of the Desert is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit providing support and community for Black gay men and allies in the Coachella Valley through philanthropy, mentorship, education, advocacy, and social networking. Founded in 2017 to address isolation and disconnection among Black gay men, the organization formally incorporated in 2020 and has since awarded over $20,000 in scholarships to LGBTQ+ and Black students, partnering with groups like Better Brothers of LA to strengthen local support and opportunity.

GLMA, founded in 1981 as the American Association of Physicians for Human Rights, is the world’s largest and oldest association of LGBTQ+ healthcare professionals. Its mission is to ensure equality in healthcare for LGBTQ+ patients and providers across a broad range of issues, including mental health, cancer, substance use, and access to affirming care for trans and nonbinary individuals. Originally focused on HIV and supporting physicians coming out at work, GLMA has expanded to include tens of thousands of health professionals across disciplines and specialties, advocating for LGBTQ+ health equity through public policy, education, and research.

Wyatt is a journalist, author, radio personality, advocate, and speaker whose work has appeared in outlets including The Advocate, HuffPost, Washington Blade, and Baltimore Gay Life. He is the founder and editor-in-chief of Wyattevans.com, a widely read online news and commentary platform for the LGBTQ+ community and its allies, reaching audiences in nearly 100 countries.

Rayceen Pendarvis is a renowned event host, dedicated activist, self-described gender-blender, and lifelong Washingtonian. As an inspirational speaker, enthusiastic promoter, dynamic emcee of numerous LGBTQ events, and venerated champion of many local causes in the Nation’s Capital, Rayceen has earned the monikers High Priestess of Love, Queen of the Shameless Plug, Empress of Pride, and Goddess of DC. In addition to being a steadfast advocate for the arts and ardent proponent of voter participation, Rayceen regularly hosts festivals, Pride celebrations, award ceremonies, community gatherings, and other events, often in partnership with Team Rayceen Productions. For more information, please visit Rayceen.com