Five Distinguished Arizona Leaders will be Honored at the 2026 Jazz Brunch, “CROWNED Not Covered: From Tignon to Triumph”
PHOENIX — The National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc., Phoenix Metropolitan Chapter (NCBW Phoenix) will celebrate the leadership, resilience, and lasting impact of Black women during its 2026 LEGENDS Jazz Brunch, Saturday, October 3, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency Phoenix.
This year’s theme, “CROWNED Not Covered: From Tignon to Triumph,” honors the legacy of strength, ingenuity, and resilience of Black women. It draws inspiration from the history of the tignon, a head covering once imposed upon Black women, reimagining it as a regal symbol of dignity, identity, power, and triumph.
The annual LEGENDS celebration recognizes women whose leadership and service reflect NCBW Phoenix’s commitment to advocacy and to improving opportunities for Black women and girls in education, health, economic empowerment, and civic engagement.
“LEGENDS is about more than recognizing extraordinary women; it is about honoring the impact they have made and the pathways they continue to create for generations to follow,” said Sheriolyn Curry Hodge, President, NCBW Phoenix.
This year, NCBW Phoenix will recognize five distinguished women for their leadership and contributions to the community:
Dr. Anna Battle — Education Legend
Dr. Battle, Superintendent of the Chandler Unified School District, will be recognized for her leadership and impact in education and her commitment to creating opportunities that help students, families, and communities thrive.
Dr. Sarah E. James — Health Legend
Dr. James, Mayo Radiation Oncologist and President of the Coalition of Blacks Against Cancer, will be honored for her leadership in health advocacy and her commitment to improving health education, access, and outcomes in the community.
The Honorable Coral Evans — Civic Engagement Legend
Evans, former Mayor of Flagstaff, will be recognized for her leadership in civic engagement and her commitment to public service, community participation, and ensuring that diverse voices are represented in decisions affecting citizens throughout Arizona.
The Honorable Maria Elena Cruz — Strategic Alliances Legend
Arizona Supreme Court Justice Cruz will be honored for her steadfast commitment to justice and her ability to build alliances that advance fairness, opportunity, and community well-being.
Tamala McBath — Economic Empowerment Legend
McBath, CEO of Dress for Success Arizona, will be recognized for her leadership in economic empowerment and her work to advance opportunities that support financial strength, entrepreneurship, and economic mobility and stability for women returning to the workforce.
“Our theme, CROWNED Not Covered: From Tignon to Triumph, reminds us that Black women have always transformed obstacles into opportunities and adversity into achievement,” said Hodge. “Our 2026 honorees embody that legacy. Our 2026 honorees represent the power of women who use their influence, expertise, and leadership to open doors for others and strengthen the communities they serve.”
The LEGENDS Jazz Brunch supports NCBW Phoenix’s work throughout the Phoenix community. Through programs, partnerships, and community engagement, NCBW Phoenix works to address critical issues and advance gender equity in health, education, civic engagement, and economic empowerment. The October 3rd celebration will bring together community leaders, advocates, corporate partners, entrepreneurs, and supporters for an inspiring morning of recognition, fellowship, jazz, and purpose.
EVENT INFORMATION
2026 LEGENDS Jazz Brunch
Date: Saturday, October 3, 2026
Time: Doors open at 10 a.m.
Location: Hyatt Regency Phoenix, 122 N. 2nd Street, Phoenix, AZ
Entertainment: Sandra Bassett and September Soul
Tickets are available now. Sponsorship, vendor booths, and community partnership opportunities are also available at ncbwphx.org.
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About the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc., Phoenix Metropolitan Chapter
The National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc., Phoenix Metropolitan Chapter is part of a national 501(c)(3), nonpartisan network of women committed to advocating on behalf of Black women and girls. Through advocacy, programs, strategic partnerships, and leadership development, NCBW Phoenix works to improve conditions and create opportunities in the areas of health, education, civic engagement, and economic empowerment. For more information about NCBW Phoenix and the 2026 LEGENDS Jazz Brunch, visit ncbwphx.org.
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