Hood Students Support African Americans of Excellence

Founded in 2023, African Americans of Excellence (AAOE) is an annual event that celebrates the Black community in Frederick, Maryland.

“Our mission is to inspire, educate and promote community healing by fostering dialogue, understanding and unity, while honoring cultural achievements,” said Yemi Fagbohun, local artist and founder of AAOE.

Each year, individuals are nominated based on their contributions to the historical, political and cultural fabric of Frederick. Honorees are spotlighted through multimedia production, including art, photography and video, culminating in an award ceremony at the Weinberg Center for the Arts.

Sabella Barron ’26, an art and archaeology major with concentrations in art history and studio art, has worked with AAOE for the past three years. She serves as a professional artist for the program, painting portraits of honorees. Barron has painted portraits of Hood alumnus Ted Luck, M.A.’89, known for his contributions to Frederick’s education system, as well as Gayon Sampson, senior advisor to the mayor of Frederick. This year, Barron’s honoree is none other than Olivia White, H’20, former dean of students at Hood College.

“I am honored to be the one to create a piece on Olivia White. I truly believe she deserves this recognition,” said Barron. “The honorees of AAOE have contributed so much to the Frederick community, becoming the very foundation of Frederick County. Now, we are giving these wonderful individuals the roses they so rightfully deserve, to not only celebrate their work, but also inspire the future generations of Frederick.”

Barron also helps recruit other student artists to participate. Previously, these had been middle and high school students, but starting in 2026, college students will be joining the roster, including several from Hood College: Robin Draetta ’26, Isabel Malaga ’26, Jenny Schlossberg ’28 and Mimi Bafor ’26.

Barron is proud to be part of the AAOE legacy while also being able to utilize her Hood major and the artistic skills she’s developed in the classroom.

“Personally, the one thing I have come to learn and appreciate is the tightknit community of Hood,” said Barron. “The classmates, teachers, admin, custodians and campus safety are all wonderful and hardworking individuals who have contributed so much to strengthen Hood.”

This year’s AAOE ceremony will be held on February 4 at 6 p.m. Learn more and purchase tickets. 

Feature photograph courtesy of Acacia Bowens, Ak's Grafix & Photo.