Legends Awards: FAQ

Q: What is the Legends Awards, and how did it come about?
A: The Legends Award was established in 2009 to pay tribute to extraordinary alumni who have used their respective MEAC and SWAC university education to bring excellence to their professional achievements and/or community service endeavors (local, state, national or global). The Legends Awards were established to honor dedicated alumni who, through exceptional service to their respective university, have helped to advance the institution’s mission and goals. Legends Award recipients are representative of the rich diversity of MEAC and SWAC universities, and they inspire others. Through their enduring commitment to excellence, integrity, civility, diversity and service, they serve as stellar examples for future graduates of MEAC and SWAC institutions.

Q: What is the MEAC/SWAC Challenge Legends Reception?
A: The MEAC/SWAC Challenge Legends Reception is a semi-formal cocktail reception and dinner that allows recipients the opportunity to share their stories about how they are making a difference within their industry and/or in the lives of others. The event, held at one of Disney’s famed hotel ballrooms, allows attendees to experience the magic of Walt Disney World and the pageantry of black college football during this exciting fun-filled Labor Day weekend. 

Q: Who’s eligible to be a Legend awardee?
A: Legends candidates are typically, though not always, graduates of MEAC or SWAC schools, having earned a bachelor’s, master’s or honorary degree from the university (or its predecessor schools and colleges). Individuals who attended—but did not graduate from a MEAC or SWAC school—can also be eligible to be candidates, as are individuals who are affiliated with an HBCU. All nominees are considered on a case-by-case basis by the MEAC/SWAC Challenge Legends committee.

Q: Who comprised the Legends committee?
A: The MEAC/SWAC Challenge Legends Awards committee is comprised of select members of the Disney and ESPN staffs, as well as faculty from the participating MEAC and SWAC Challenge schools.

Q: How are candidates chosen?
A: Those who wish to submit a name for consideration to the MEAC/SWAC Challenge Legends Awards Committee should send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .  Please write “MEAC/SWAC Challenge Legends” in the subject line. Please include a one-page letter of recommendation addressing significant accomplishments. The letter may come from the nominator or alternate supporter. Other relevant supporting documents included should not exceed three pages.

Q: What happens once nominees’ names have been sent in?
A: Once a nomination is received, it will be reviewed for that year and the following year only. In any given year, three to six total Legends Awards will be awarded only if qualified nominations have been submitted. Winners will be contacted by a member of the Legends committee.