Texas African American Museum

06/08/2026

🎭🎶 CONGRATULATIONS TO ILLEANA "ILLY" KIRVEN! 🎶🎭

The Texas African American Museum is proud to announce Illeana "Illy" Kirven as the recipient of the 2026 Arthur "Dooley" Wilson African American Music Month Award.

Born in Tyler, Texas, and a graduate of John Tyler High School, Illy Kirven has built an extraordinary career as a singer, actor, dancer, and performing artist whose talents have graced stages across the nation. Through her exceptional artistic achievement, leadership, and dedication to the performing arts, she has become a source of pride for Tyler, East Texas, and beyond.

Named in honor of Tyler native Arthur "Dooley" Wilson, the internationally acclaimed actor and singer best known for his iconic portrayal of Sam in Casablanca, this award recognizes individuals whose contributions have made a lasting impact on music, performance, and the arts while inspiring future generations.

Join us as we celebrate Illy's remarkable accomplishments and honor the enduring legacy of Arthur "Dooley" Wilson.

📅 Saturday, June 27, 2026
🕓 4:00 PM

📍 Empowerment CDC Complex
Home of the Texas African American Museum and the Veretta & Jessie E. Rider Fine and Performing Arts Centre

309 W. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Tyler, Texas

Located in the North Tyler Historical Cultural Arts District

✨ Recognizing Excellence • Preserving Legacy • Inspiring Tomorrow

🎵 Recognizing Individuals from Tyler and East Texas for Outstanding Contributions to the Arts

For more information: 📞 903-218-1388 🌐 www.texasafricanamericanmuseum.org

🎭🎶🏆

06/03/2026

SUPPORT COLLEGE HILL BAPTIST CHURCH! Get your copy of its NEW COOK BOOK! Loaded with lots of delicious North Tyler recepies!!! only $25. Stop by the Texas African American Museum Thursday, Friday 10:00am - 2:00pm and Saturday 10:00am - 4:00pm

05/29/2026

05/03/2026

My recent visit to The Piney Woods School was truly a wonderful and inspiring experience. From the rich history to the powerful mission of developing young leaders, it’s a place that leaves a lasting impact.

I’m honored to share some of the footage I captured during my trip. I hope it encourages and inspires you just as much as it did me.

If you feel led, please consider supporting this incredible institution by making a donation at: www.pineywoods.org
When you give, be sure to note that you heard about the school through Empowerment Community Development Corporation.

Together, we can continue to educate, equip, and empower the next generation. 💛

1 like. "The Piney Wood School Tour"

04/24/2026

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04/24/2026

https://www.kltv.com/video/2026/04/22/jarvis-christian-university-join-hbcu-athletic-conference/

“What our president wanted to do was to solidify the importance of three things: our culture, our community, and fierce competition,” HBCU Athletic Conference Commissioner Kiki Baker Barnes said during the morning press conference.

04/24/2026

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1fQMK5dKnA/