Unity Benefit 2024

Celebrating NAAM’s 16 years of meaningful engagement in the Pacific Northwest and highlighting NAAM’s vision for the museum’s future.

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NAAM welcomed esteemed guests and museum supporters to enjoy an intimate cocktail affair with live music, a raise the paddle, artist spotlight, and an inspirational program featuring members of the Pacific Northwest community on Friday, October 4 at the Four Seasons Hotel.

Our theme this year was Influence which seeks to examine the responsibility we have to our communities to set an example for others to follow. NAAM is rooted in being an influential thought leader in the Pacific Northwest and beyond. We will remain a voice that shares the ongoing story of Black history while serving as the cornerstone of meaningful community engagement. This year’s Champions of Unity embody influence with their dynamic impact in shaping the communities they serve by uplifting Black businesses and Black art.

Together, we will continue to use our collective influence to spark conversations, change, and action that empowers all people and inspires curiosity about the importance of Black culture within the fabric of our nation's history.

Champions of Unity Honorees

The Champions of Unity Award honors impactful individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to service that exemplify unity and uplift their communities. This year’s awards will be bestowed upon philanthropist Stephanie Ellis-Smith and arts leader Stephanie Johnson-Toliver.

Stephanie Ellis-Smith is the CEO and founder of Phīla Engaged Giving, a philanthropic advisory firm. As an advisor and social impact specialist, she works toward a world where philanthropy is a nurturing and equity-centered practice that connects wealth to the people and communities who need it most. Stephanie’s expertise in navigating wealth, impactful generosity, and civic engagement is frequently sought by leading philanthropic institutions and mainstream publications, and as a keynote speaker of major social sector convenings.

Stephanie Johnson-Toliver is President at the Black Heritage Society of Washington State where she leads a dedicated Board of Directors who are committed to uphold the Society’s mission to collect, preserve and share the history of Black people from across the region. Stephanie is also liaison to Seattle’s Office of Economic Development and Seattle Office of Arts & Culture as leader for placemaking initiatives at the Historic Central Area Arts & Cultural District.