iHeartMedia Philadelphia’s 105.3 WDAS FM, Philly’s Best R&B and Throwbacks, announced the lineup of recording artists who will perform at the ninth annual “Women of Excellence Luncheon”, set to take place on Saturday, April 12, at the Sheraton Philadelphia Downtown. Guests will enjoy special live performances from renowned R&B and jazz artists including:
Sunshine Anderson – Best known for her #1 hit “Heard It All Before”, Anderson has been a staple in R&B since the early 2000s.
Jeff Bradshaw – A Philadelphia native and jazz/R&B favorite, Bradshaw has performed with icons such as Jill Scott and Patti LaBelle. His latest project includes the hit “Make Some Time for Love” with Eric Roberson. He also produced the WDAS Quiet Storm theme alongside DJ Jazzy Jeff.
Q Parker – Founding member of 112, the Grammy-winning R&B group behind numerous hits in the late ’90s and early 2000s. Parker is preparing for his new solo EP, featuring the single “Beg”.
This year’s honorees include Sherri Shepherd, who will receive the Legend Award for Film & TV Achievement, and Lalah Hathaway, who will receive the Legend Award for Musical Achievement.
WDAS FM will recognize outstanding women from the Philadelphia community, including:
Dr. Beverly Coleman – Chief of Fetal Diagnosis and Treatment Development, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
Lisa Blunt Rochester – First female Democratic U.S. Senator from Delaware
Aziza Shuler – Emmy Award-winning journalist and CBS3 weekend anchor
Dr. Dorothy Johnson-Speight – Founder and Executive Director, Mothers In Charge
Kendra Van De Water – Co-Chief Executive Officer, YEAH Philly
In addition to the distinguished honorees, 105.3 WDAS FM will recognize four extraordinary women nominated by listeners. One of these honorees will receive the prestigious “Mary J. Blige Award for Perseverance and Courage”, named after the Grammy Award-winning artist who was honored at the inaugural luncheon in 2015. This award continues to celebrate women who exemplify resilience and strength in their personal and professional journeys.
The 105.3 WDAS FM on-air team including Patty Jackson, Frankie Darcell, Mimi Brown and Loraine Ballard Morrill will host the luncheon, celebrating the achievements and impact of remarkable women across the Tri-State area.
“Recognizing and uplifting the contributions of extraordinary women in our community is a privilege,” said Derrick Corbett, Senior Vice President of Programming for iHeartMedia Philadelphia. “Each year, this event highlights inspiring individuals who have made a lasting impact on our culture and society. It’s truly a celebration of excellence and empowerment.”
The ninth annual “WDAS Women of Excellence Luncheon”is presented Rand Spear the Accident Lawyer and co-sponsored by Angels Are Us Home Healthcare Agency. Additional sponsors include Foulkeways at Gwynedd, a Life Plan Community.
Since its inception in 2015, the WDAS Women of Excellence Luncheon has honored phenomenal women in the Philadelphia region, with past recipients including Mary J. Blige, Patti LaBelle, Susan Taylor, Queen Latifah, Eve, Sheryl Lee Ralph, MC Lyte and Jody Watley.
Tickets include lunch and discounted parking with no hidden fees. To purchase tickets and learn more about the event, visit wdasfm.com.
