Centering Joy · CJBBE 2027
Homecoming Court Awards
Who carried the birth community this year? Nominate the people and organizations who show up for Black families in Southern Illinois and the St. Louis Metro. A review committee selects up to three finalists per award, the community votes, and winners are crowned at the Homecoming Gala on Saturday, April 17, 2027 at the Angad Arts Hotel.
Nominations open January 5 – February 15, 2027
Five Awards · One Community
The Homecoming Court
Community Doula of the Year
A doula whose care, advocacy and presence made a measurable difference for Black families this year.
Freshman of the Year
A doula, perinatal health worker, lactation counselor or student midwife in their first two years of practice who is already raising the bar.
Head of the Class
A midwife, nurse, physician, lactation consultant or mental health provider who centers Black families and partners with community birth workers.
Fatherhood & Family Champion
A father, partner or advocate who strengthens families and brings men into the birth and parenting conversation.
Community Partner of the Year
An organization, health system, business or agency that invested in Black birth equity in a way families could feel.
Key Dates
Awards Timeline
- 1
Nominations open
- 2
Nominations close · 11:59 pm CT
- 3
Finalists announced · Community voting
- 4
Winners crowned · Homecoming Gala
Coming March 2027
Meet the Finalists
Finalists and community voting will be announced here in March 2027. Check back soon.
Eligibility
Nominees must live or work in Southern Illinois or the St. Louis Metro. Doula Lab employees, board members and members of the awards review committee are not eligible. Self-nominations welcome.
Want to present an award? Become an Award Sponsor
Award Sponsor — $1,000