Cal State San Bernardino will host the 13th annual Pioneer Breakfast on Friday, Feb. 27, from 9-11 a.m., recognizing the contributions of African Americans who have made a lasting impact on the university.

Hosted by CSUSB’s Black Faculty, Staff and Student Association (BFSSA), the Pioneer Breakfast celebrates individuals whose leadership, service and dedication have enriched the campus and supported student success. The event will take place at the Santos Manuel Student Union North Conference Center and is a featured program of the university’s Black History Month celebration.

Over the years, the Pioneer Breakfast has become a meaningful campus tradition, bringing together students, faculty, staff, alumni and community leaders in celebration and reflection. The event highlights the achievements of honorees whose work exemplifies commitment to education, equity and community engagement.

“For me, the Pioneer Breakfast is deeply personal. It’s about honoring the shoulders we stand on while creating space for the next generation,” said Anthony Roberson, president of the BFSSA executive board and associate director of the Santos Manuel Student Union Operations. “The theme, ‘Honoring the Journey: From Liberation to Leadership,’ reminds us that progress is built on courage, sacrifice and community. Each year, we celebrate leaders whose impact has shaped our campus and the Inland Empire, and we invest in students who will carry that legacy forward. 

“This event is both a tribute and a promise; a tribute to the pioneers who shaped our history and a promise to invest boldly in the leaders who will define our future,” he continued. “Together, we honor legacy while building momentum for the next generation to rise, lead and transform our communities.”

This year’s honorees reflect that legacy of leadership and service. The 2026 Pioneer Breakfast honorees include Kevon Lee, who will receive the Emerging Leader Award, and Keith Hosea, recipient of the Community Icon Award.

Pioneer Awards will also be presented to the following individuals:

  • Alton Garrett: Alumni Honoree
  • Shelia Braggs: Staff Honoree
  • Robin Phillips: Administrator Honoree
  • Claudia Davis: Faculty Honoree
  • Eduardo Mendoza: Lorriane Frost Ally Award

As part of the program, CSUSB students will introduce each honoree, sharing highlights of their leadership and accomplishments. The celebration extends beyond recognition. The Pioneer Breakfast also serves as a fundraiser supporting student scholarships, with proceeds benefiting the annual Black Graduation recognition ceremony and advancing CSUSB’s commitment to student success and equity.

Tickets are $40 for faculty, staff and community members. For ticket information and event details, contact Roberson at aroberso@csusb.edu.