Est. 2011 · Columbus, Ohio

Our Story

A legacy of recognition, empowerment, and community uplift.

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"To shine the spotlight on African Americans in the community who aren't just speaking of change but actively making positive changes within our communities."
— Official Mission Statement, Honors Events
A Jay Pullen, Founder of Honors Events
2011 Founded

The Visionary

A Jay Pullen,
Founder & Executive Director

In 2011, A Jay Pullen saw a gap in community recognition — stories of African American excellence in Ohio were not being told loudly enough. He set out to change that.

What started as a vision to celebrate local change-makers grew into one of Ohio's most respected annual galas. Under A Jay's leadership, Honors Events has expanded its reach across the state, recognizing leaders across eight distinct categories and raising critical funds for youth programs.

A Jay is the driving force behind Events by APJ and a key leader within People Like Me Project, Inc., channeling every event into tangible community impact — from school supplies and clothing to career development and mentorship opportunities for the next generation.

hello@honorsevents.net (614) 310-8186

A Decade of Impact

Our Journey

2011

The Beginning

A Jay Pullen launches the inaugural Honors Events gala in Columbus, Ohio, with a clear vision: celebrate the unsung heroes of the African American community.

2013

Expanding Categories

Award categories grow to eight disciplines — Business, Education, Public Service, Arts, Media, Religion, Health & Wellness, and Community Service — reflecting the full breadth of community excellence.

2016

Statewide Expansion

The event's reach expands to include Dayton and surrounding regions, doubling the communities served and honorees celebrated.

2019

Youth Programs Launch

People Like Me Project, Inc. formalizes youth engagement programming — connecting youth with mentors and delivering school supplies, career development, food, and clothing.

2024+

A New Chapter

With over a decade of impact, 100+ honorees, and thousands of community members inspired, Honors Events enters its next era — more powerful, more inclusive, and more essential than ever.

Next Generation

Investing in Youth

Honors Events was always about more than a gala. It is a pipeline to the future — connecting young people with the role models, resources, and opportunities they deserve.

Every ticket sold, every sponsor secured, and every honoree recognized funnels directly into programs that support our community's youth. We believe that when children see success that looks like them, they dare to dream bigger.

School Supplies
Career Development
Food Resources
Clothing Support
Mentorship
Role Models
Community Youth Impact
100+ Honorees inspiring youth
13+ Years of community service

Our Umbrella

Presented By

Honors Events is powered by two mission-aligned organizations dedicated to community uplift.

Events by APJ

The event production arm led by A Jay Pullen, responsible for curating, producing, and delivering the Honors Events experience at the highest level year after year.

People Like Me Project, Inc.

A 501(c)(3) nonprofit that channels fundraising proceeds into direct youth support — mentorship, resources, and programming that empowers the next generation of African American leaders. Donations are tax deductible.

Join the Movement

Be part of an evening that celebrates greatness and invests in the future.

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