JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - iSportsWire -- The 2025 Unity Football Classic, featuring Edward Waters University and Virginia Union University, will celebrate HBCU football while recognizing leaders who have made lasting contributions to Jacksonville.

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.

Outstanding Community Leaders

• 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.

Organizations

• 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.

"We are proud to honor these remarkable individuals and organizations that embody the values of faith, service, and leadership," said Reverend R.B. Holmes, Unity Classic Chair. "Their dedication has made a significant difference in our city and beyond, and we are thrilled to recognize their achievements during this historic weekend."

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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

The Classic will be broadcast nationally on ESPN+, celebrating HBCU pride, community unity, and faith-based leadership.

For sponsorships, tickets, and more information, visit unityclassic.org.