Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Chattanooga has named the distinguished finalists for the 2026 City of Potential Awards. The awards recognize key leaders who are creating opportunity and impact through mentorship in the Chattanooga area.

The following six finalists were selected by a distinguished panel of community champions:

Chris Ramsey Mentoring Legacy Award Finalists are: Travaar Armstrong, The Bridge Builder Collective; Lakweshia Ewing, Unlearn Everything and Live; and Ladarius Price, Hamilton County Government, PEAK.

This award was established in memory of Big Brother and Community Leader, Chris Ramsey.

Its purpose is to recognize an individual whose long-standing commitment to mentoring has impacted the life of multiple individuals and whose life represents the ideals that defined Chris Ramsey.

Excellence In Mentoring Award Finalists are: Donelle Dunning, D-Elite Track Club, Brainerd High School; Cheri Hudgins, Rose of Sharon's Senior Villa; and Nolan McDaniel, ChattAcademy Community School.

This award recognizes an individual or organization actively making a difference through mentorship in their specific context. Whether through one-on-one guidance, advocacy, or bold new initiatives, the recipient of this award is putting mentorship into action in a way that creates meaningful, lasting impact. Their dedication to expanding opportunities through mentoring is shaping brighter futures today.

One winner from each category will be honored and celebrated at the 5th Annual City of Potential Awards Breakfast.

Big Brothers Big Sisters will also recognize their matches of the year: Maddie Blair & Naeli Chavez (Big Sister and Little Sister of the Year), and Tory Johnston & Taderrius Brown (Big Brother and Little Brother of the Year).

The breakfast will be hosted on Thursday, Oct. 1 from 8-9:30 a.m. at The Signal, 21 Choo Choo Ave. in Chattanooga. General admission tickets are $50, and guests may sponsor a table of 10 for $1,200. All proceeds from the event will directly support the youth mentorship programs of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Chattanooga. To purchase tickets/tables or inquire about sponsorship opportunities, visit cityofpotential.com or call 423-698-8016.