2024 Celebration of Philanthropy Program Book - Book - Page 21
Arundel County (AAC) by advancing philanthropy in the county and
uniting leaders, philanthropists, volunteers, and organizations to
creatively address societal challenges. He was most recently inducted into
the 2024 AAC Chamber Business Hall of Fame in addition to receiving
the 2023 Historic Annapolis Preservation Award and being appointed by
Governor Glendening as “Admiral of the Chesapeake,” in 2002.
“Mr. Leggett’s appointment to this esteemed position [Admiral of the
Chesapeake] is a testament to his impact and commitment to serving
the community and the Bay watershed,” said Carmera Thomas-Wilhite,
Vice President for DEI at the Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF). She
added that Vincent has been a long-time CBF supporter who actively
volunteers and advocates for legislation.
Mary-Angela Hardwick, Historic Annapolis Vice President, Education
and Interpretation, agreed: “Vince’s efforts to amplify the African
American voices of the Chesapeake region are inspiring to all,” she said.
“Historic Annapolis, the larger local community, and visitors worldwide
have benefitted from his sharing of his extensive research and his
gathering of oral histories and photos of Black life on the Chesapeake.”
Vincent played a key role in the 2022 success of the 17-year “Save
Elktonia-Carr’s Beach” campaign raising $6.5M in collaboration with
the City of Annapolis, Chesapeake Conservancy, The Conservancy
Fund, and BOCF. The effort continued, securing an additional $2.5M
to acquire the adjacent historic Moore Property. In February 2024, the
5.67-acre area became the New African American Waterfront Park,
managed by the Annapolis Department of Parks and Recreation,
offering beachfront access.
Vincent’s lifelong dedication has preserved Anne Arundel County’s past
and shaped a brighter future for all who reside and visit here.
Carol Thompson Lifetime Achievement Award — This award
is named in honor of Carol Thompson, the Community Foundation of
Anne Arundel County's Founder and its first Executive Director. It is
presented to an individual who has made lasting, significant, and impactful
contributions to Anne Arundel County by advancing philanthropy through
long-standing leadership, creativity in responding to societal
problems, and bringing leaders, philanthropists, volunteers,
organizations, and businesses together.
Carol Thompson
2024 CELEBRATION OF PHILANTHROPY AWARDS | 21
