The Arkansas Black Hall of Fame has announced its 2026 class of inductees, recognizing seven individuals for their contributions in fields including education, agriculture, medicine, business, public service, athletics and philanthropy.
Among this year’s honorees are two people with ties to the Pine Bluff area: Hazell Reed and Dr. Raymond P. Miller.
The 2026 class also includes entrepreneurs and philanthropists Rebecca “Becky” Finney and Darrell Finney; educator and civil rights advocate Frank A. James; former NBA player and philanthropist Joe Marcus Johnson; and California Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber.
Miller, who is being inducted posthumously, graduated magna cum laude from Arkansas AM&N College, now the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. He later served on the University of Arkansas Board of Trustees during the institution’s transition from AM&N to UAPB and is being honored for his contributions as a physician, scientist and business leader.
Reed, a former dean and vice chancellor at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, is being recognized for work as an agricultural leader, educator and mentor who helped shape agricultural education and leadership development across Arkansas.
Deltaplex Radio’s Floyd Donald obtained an interview with Reed, who talked about his feelings about being inducted, among other things.
Floyd asked Reed about his career, citing accomplishments of Reeds such as helping mainstream farmers, the work he’s done to bring attention to the plight of small farmers, especially African American farmers. They go onto discuss how Reed has also worked with black rogue farmers and made sure the Black Growers Counsel had field days.
Floyd brings up how small Farmers are struggling and asks where Reed potentially sees them in 10-20 years, especially African American Farmers.
Before parting ways, Reed gave Floyd his closing comments wishing the best for all disadvantaged/minority farmers.
According to the Arkansas Black Hall of Fame Foundation, the annual program recognizes Black Arkansans whose achievements and service have had a lasting impact within the state and beyond.
The 32nd Arkansas Black Hall of Fame induction ceremony is scheduled for Oct. 24 at 7:30 p.m. at Robinson Performance Hall in Little Rock.
