At the Unity Classic Kick-Off Luncheon on Friday, September 12, 2025, Edward Waters University will honor a distinguished group of community, business, and faith leaders:
Unity Ambassadors
- Dr. Nathaniel Glover – Former Jacksonville Sheriff and former President of Edward Waters University, dedicated to safety, service and education.
 - Darnell Smith – Florida Blue North Florida Market President, advocate for healthcare access and education.
 
- Mayor Donna Deegan – Jacksonville's 45th Mayor, championing infrastructure, public health, and economic development.
 - Rev. Rudolph McKissick, Sr. – Pastor Emeritus of Bethel Baptist Institutional Church, with over 50 years of faith leadership. Founder & CEO of Mindful Meditation Ministries.
 - Rev. Frederick Newbill – Senior Pastor of First Timothy Baptist Church, known for youth mentorship and community growth.
 - Sam Newby – Former Jacksonville City Councilman, advocate for HBCU students and underserved communities.
 - Adonnica Toler – Museum Director for the Eartha M.M. White Historical Museum, preserving Jacksonville's Black history and culture.
 - Elder Elizabeth Yates – First female minister and Presiding Elder of the East Annual Conference of the 11th Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Devoted to outreach and prayer ministry.
 - Bishop Marvin Zanders, II – 140th Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, assigned to the 16th Episcopal District, champion of social justice and equity.
 
- Clara White Mission, CEO Ju' Coby Pittman – A historic nonprofit serving Jacksonville for over a century, Clara White Mission provides critical services including daily meals, housing assistance, job training, and veteran support—transforming lives and restoring hope for individuals and families in need.
 - OneJax, CEO Elizabeth Anderson – A nonprofit committed to fostering mutual respect and building bridges of understanding among people of all beliefs, faiths, and backgrounds. OneJax promotes civility, inspires hope and creates a climate where all youth and adults can thrive.
 
Weekend Highlights
- Kick-Off Luncheon – Friday, Sept. 12, Noon, Adams-Jenkins Sports And Music Complex, EWU
 - Tailgate Fan Fest – Saturday, Sept. 13
 - Unity Classic Game – Saturday, Sept. 13, Edward Waters vs. Virginia Union at Nathaniel Glover Community Field and Stadium
 
For sponsorships, tickets, and more information, visit unityclassic.org.
Photos: (Click photo to enlarge)
 Source: Unity Classic
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