Milwaukee Magazine Announces Winners of the 2026 Unity Awards

MILWAUKEE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Milwaukee Magazine is proud to announce the recipients of its 2026 Unity Awards, honoring leaders whose work fosters connection, creates opportunity and strengthens the Milwaukee community. The six honorees are featured with profiles in the February issue of Milwaukee Magazine, out now, and will be celebrated at the Unity Awards event on Feb. 24.

The 2026 Unity Award winners are:

• Jack Bolog, Director of Operations, People’s Table: Recognized for innovative work strengthening food security and community resource networks.
• Katie Cummings, Founder and Executive Director, Pink Umbrella Theater Company: Recognized for creating one of the few theater organizations in the nation amplifying the voices of performers with disabilities.
• Element Everest-Blanks, Founder, DJ and Program Director, Radio Milwaukee’s HYFIN; Amplifier in Residence, Marcus Performing Arts Center: Recognized for elevating diverse perspectives and working as a cultural catalyst.
• Ken Ginlack, CEO, Serenity Inns: Recognized for building a comprehensive continuum of care for men grappling with substance use and mental health challenges.
• Kurt Owens, President/Founder, Bridge Builders Inc.; Lead Pastor, Uflourish Church: Recognized for revitalizing neighborhoods and fostering community transformation.
• Levi Stein, President and CEO, Friendship Circle of Wisconsin: Recognized for creating inclusive opportunities for adults with disabilities and expanding mental health support initiatives.

This year’s cohort will be celebrated at the magazine’s Unity Event, from 7-8:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 24 at Jan Serr Studio. Special guest Deanna Singh, a 2023 Unity honoree and founder of leadership consultancy Uplifting Impact, will lead conversations with each of this year’s winners. Tickets are available now at https://www.milwaukeemag.com/unity.

Milwaukee Magazine began the Unity Awards in 2021 to celebrate Milwaukeeans whose efforts make the city more welcoming, equitable and vibrant for all.