February 13, 2026

Forsyth Tech invites the community to join us for our annual Black History Month celebration on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event will be held at the Mazie S. Woodruff Aviation Technology Lab, 2739 Aviation Drive, Winston-Salem.

This year’s keynote address will be delivered by Mary D. Williams, an acclaimed gospel vocalist and speaker whose voice and message have inspired audiences across the country. Lunch will follow the program.

A native of Raleigh, North Carolina, Mary D. Williams is known for her powerful, soul-stirring voice, often compared to Mahalia Jackson. She has spent many years ministering through music at churches, festivals, and special events, building a strong following along the way.

Mary has performed alongside renowned gospel artists including Bobby Jones, Sister Cantaloupe, Lee Williams & the Spiritual QC’s, Luther Barnes, and Keith “Wonder Boy” Johnson. She has also appeared on the Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN).

Her performances have taken her to stages across the country, including:

  • The National Council of Negro Women, Inc. in Washington, DC
  • Walnut Creek Amphitheater in Raleigh
  • Duke University Chapel
  • The Bobby Jones Gospel Recording Retreat in Las Vegas

She has traveled with Duke Divinity Professor Dr. Timothy Tyson and the United Methodist Western Conference and was named Female Vocalist of the Year at the NC Gospel Announcers Guild’s Prestige Awards ceremony.

In addition to her music ministry, Mary is devoted to supporting women facing marital challenges. She is a wife, a mother of three young men, and an entrepreneur. She owns a women’s apparel business, Mrs. WMS Accessories, and is currently writing her first novel.

Event Details

Black History Month Keynote Address with Mary D. Williams
Wednesday, February 18, 2026, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Mazie S. Woodruff Aviation Technology Lab
2739 Aviation Drive, Winston-Salem, NC

This event is free and open to the public, but please register here.

We hope you will join us as we come together to honor Black History Month and hear an inspiring message from Mary D. Williams.