Philanthropy can take many forms—whether it’s contributing your time, finances, expertise, or talent—but at its core, it’s all about making the world a better place.

“In a world where ‘time’ is measured ‘by money,’ Vincent Omar Leggett is a giant in the world of philanthropic giving,” said nominator DeeDee Strum, a Senior Professional Services Business Consultant and Curriculum Developer. “Vince’s documented contributions are numerous having served as an unpaid executive for Blacks of the Chesapeake nearing 40 years, a volunteer board member for numerous other nonprofit and public agencies, community activist, and champion for racial and environmental justice in and around Anne Arundel County.”

In addition to being the Founder and President of Blacks of the Chesapeake Foundation (BOCF), Vincent’s lifetime of philanthropy has benefitted many other nonprofit organizations including the Wiley H. Bates Legacy Center, Annapolis Maritime Museum, Banneker Douglass Museum/Maryland Commission of African American History & Culture, Arundel County Cultural & Preservation Societies, The Chesapeake Conservancy, The Chesapeake Bay Foundation, Chesapeake Legal Alliance,  and countless other organizations in our regional area. He is also a book author, a highly respected lecturer, and a historical consultant on national and international Underground Railroad documentary films. 

Through his long-standing leadership, Vincent has made lasting, significant, and impactful contributions to Anne Arundel County. He has thoughtfully advanced  philanthropy in the county and beyond by creatively addressing societal problems and bringing leaders, philanthropists, volunteers, organizations, and businesses together. His 2002 appointment and commission by Governor Glendenning as “Admiral of the Chesapeake,” recognizing his environmental activism and dedication to preserving the Chesapeake Bay, and his 2023 Historic Annapolis Preservation Award both highlight his contributions to the community.

“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 advocates for legislation, volunteers, and promotes racial diversity among oyster growers.

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, photos and stories of Black life on the Chesapeake.”

Another one of Vincent’s achievements was the 2022 success of the 17-year campaign to “Save Elktonia-Carr’s Beach,” in collaboration with the City of Annapolis, Chesapeake Conservancy, The Conservancy Fund, and BOCF. The campaign culminated with successfully raising $6.5M for the August 2022 acquisition. But the effort did not stop there: The “New Elktonia” collaboration continued, securing an additional $2.5M for the city to acquire the adjacent historic Moore Property and Cottage. In February 2024, the combined 5.67-acre area became the New African American Waterfront Park, managed by the Annapolis Department of Parks and Recreation, now 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.

Vincent was nominated by Blacks of the Chesapeake Foundation​.

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.

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