The Ronald H. Brown Leadership Awards honor individuals and organizations who exemplify leadership in improving the quality of life of African Americans. For 16 years, the recipients have been recognized at an annual gala. More than 400 guests attended Friday's event at the Westin Convention Center Hotel, a benefit that grossed $328,000 for the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh, thanks to generous support from EQT (represented by honorary chair Randy Crawford) and other sponsors and individuals. Chairs Janet and Greg Spencer and Mary Beth and Alan Trivilino helped to greet guests along with Urban League CEO Esther Bush and second vice chair Annie Hanna Cestra, who gave remarks during the presentation. WTAE's Andrew Stockey served as emcee for the evening.

Honored this year were radio host Bev Smith (civic leadership), Larry Davis, dean of Pitt's School of Social Work (community leadership), executive VP David Cohen on behalf of Comcast (corporate leadership) and the Pittsburgh Sisters of Mercy, who received the Special Lifetime Achievement Award accepted by Sister Marie Immaculee. Charles "Teenie" Harris was given a special posthumous award accepted by his son, Lionel Harris.