The second annual Triumph Awards ceremony was held February 29, at Patterson Park Community Center. Patterson Park celebrated Black History Month by awarding local and national residents for their accomplishments within the African American Community.

Many nominees for each award were sent in from local churches, schools and organizations. The Triumph Awards honor the Rutherford County heroes and reward those who went above and beyond for their community.

“We had so many awesome nominees that we chose more than one for each category,” event organizer Crystal Ellis-McFerrin said. “We are very proud of our community heroes that have paved the way for the next generation to accomplish their goals while servicing the community. It is a joy to see hard work and dedication be rewarded by the community.”

Award-winners include:

• Christopher (CJ) Johnson, Kamaria Murray, Jatavious Hathaway and DeShawn Rogers for the Robert James Excellence in Athletics Award for upholding the values of good sportsmanship and fair play, both on and off the field.

• Ernest Newsom and Ashley Buchanan for the Barbara and Leroy Hodges Artist of the Year Award for their contributions to culture, the vibrancy of our communities and to art itself.

• Kaleb Hall for the Mary Watkins Achievement Award for hard work and giving your best effort, often in the face of special obstacles.

• Meagan Harris, Rhonisha Brown, N’dia Metcalf and Christopher Curtis for the Jeanette McKinley-Bowen Superiority in Academics Award for their superior academic performance, positive attitude and integrity while maintaining the respect of their peers.

  

• Sheldon Smith, Skylyn Anderson, Brian Haley and Christie Robinson for the Florence Smith and Katie Wilson Trailblazer Award for positively affecting the community through contributions, advocacy and civic accomplishments.

  Patterson Park also recognized the Pi Gamma Gamma Chapter of Omega Psi Phi, Inc for their longstanding partnership and their many philanthropic activities by awarding them the Patterson Park Community Center Philanthropy Award.

  Congratulations to all of the Triumph Award winners for being outstanding and making a difference within the community.

Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation Department is dedicated to providing vibrant public spaces and inclusive programs delivered with visionary leadership and caring staff that engage the individual and strengthen the quality of life of our community.