Some of the world’s most beloved artists, athletes, chefs and entrepreneurs hail from our state. Friends of Louisiana Public Broadcasting began highlighting these hometown heroes in 1990 when it established the Louisiana Legends Awards Gala.

Each year since, Friends of LPB have honored talented individuals who earned national or international attention for their work. After 25 years of ceremonies, more than 100 legends have been honored.

This year, the awards gala returns with six honorees: two-time Olympic medalist Hollis Conway; political analyst Charlie Cook, famed for his work with NBC, National Journal and his own publication Cook Political Report; William J. Doré of Global Industries Ltd.; Sylvia Goodman, known for her philanthropic and leadership roles; former Congressman and White House Deputy Chief of Staff W. Henson Moore, who led Forever LSU, the most prosperous fundraising effort in the history of the university; and Charlie Weems, a member of the LSU Law Center Hall of Fame.

“These are amazing people who kind of changed the face of Louisiana,” says Friends of LPB special events coordinator Kate Bradshaw. “They’re very involved within our communities, and they bring honor and recognition back to our state for what they’ve accomplished.”

Friends of LPB will host the 26th annual Louisiana Legends Awards Gala at the Old State Capitol on May 5. Tickets are $150 per person and $275 per couple. Can’t make it to the gala? The awards ceremony will air on LPB May 31 at 8 p.m.

For more information, visit lpb.org/legends.