Albany, GA — The Albany Southwest Georgian Newspaper will celebrate its 87th anniversary with a semi-formal Gala on Friday, December 5, 2025, at 6:00 PM at Albany Technical College (Kirkland Building).
Founded in 1938 by the late Virgil Hodges and A.C. Searles, the Albany Southwest Georgian has spent nearly nine decades chronicling local history, amplifying community voices, and serving as a trusted source of information for Southwest Georgia. This year’s celebration honors that legacy while spotlighting the people and organizations shaping the region today.
Adding to the significance of the night, Mr. Bobby R. Henry, Sr. will serve as keynote speaker. Henry is a prominent publisher and advocate for African American media, serving as the publisher of the family-owned Westside Gazette media company. He earned his bachelor’s degree in sociology from Florida Memorial University, laying the foundation for a lifelong commitment to community service and social justice. A recipient of several awards for his contributions to journalism and community advocacy, Henry is recognized for his impact and excellence in the field.
Henry serves as immediate past chairman of the National Newspaper Publishers Association
(NNPA), playing a pivotal role in promoting and supporting Black-owned media companies nationwide. He and his wife, Bertha Henry, a retired Broward County administrator, are proud parents of four and foster a family environment that values education and civic engagement. An avid lover of outdoor activities, Henry enjoys exploring nature and traveling with his family.
Following the keynote, the evening will feature the People’s Choice Awards, recognizing outstanding achievements in six categories: Faith Leadership, Community Impact, Youth Rising Star, Educator of Excellence, Business Excellence, and Nonprofit Champion. Public voting closed on November 15 after robust participation from readers across the region.
Organizers say the Gala is both a tribute to the past and a salute to the present.
“The Albany Southwest Georgian has been the voice of our community for nearly nine decades.
This Gala is our way of celebrating legacy and the people who continue to shape and strengthen Albany, Georgia.”
Community members, business owners, faith leaders, elected officials, and supporters are invited to join the celebration as the newspaper honors excellence and continues its longstanding mission of service to Southwest Georgia.
