(BALTIMORE – September 14, 2026) — Timmeeka Pettus, a longtime Baltimore City Public Schools employee, labor leader, and community advocate, will be honored at the Joe Manns Black Wall Street Awards on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at COLIN’S Seafood & Grill. A Baltimore native, devoted mother, and woman of faith, Pettus has built a life defined by resilience, perseverance, and service. Pettus became a mother at 16. Despite the challenges she faced as a teenage parent, she remained determined to raise her sons, provide for her family, and build a meaningful career serving Baltimore. In 2008, Pettus began working for Baltimore City Public Schools as a school bus driver. For 18 years, she safely transported and supported Baltimore’s children, including students with disabilities. Her commitment extended far beyond driving a bus. Pettus became a strong advocate for transportation employees and earned numerous awards and recognitions for her dedication, perfect attendance, professional development, and service to students and the Baltimore community. After years of pursuing professional growth, Pettus was promoted to School Bus Trainer in 2025. In this role, she helps prepare other transportation professionals to safely serve Baltimore’s students. Her work with students with special needs also led to opportunities to support the Special Olympics. Those experiences strengthened her passion for inclusion, compassion, and ensuring that every child has an opportunity to participate, develop, and thrive. Pettus has also served the broader Baltimore community. She previously volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, helping build safe, stable homes for families in need. Through her career, volunteer work, and community involvement, she has shown her belief that meaningful change begins when people are willing to lend a helping hand. In August 2025, members of AFSCME Local 44 elected Pettus to serve on the union’s Executive Board. She was also elected Secretary-Treasurer of Local 44. These leadership positions reflect the trust her fellow union members have placed in her ability to serve, advocate, and represent working people. Pettus’ journey has not always been easy. Through faith, courage and determination, however, she has continued to walk boldly in her purpose. She remains committed to helping young people, working families, students with disabilities and community members whose voices deserve to be heard. For her years of service, leadership and advocacy, BMORENews.com and the Joe Manns Black Wall Street Awards are proud to recognize Timmeeka Pettus as a September 2026 honoree. The Joe Manns Black Wall Street Awards celebrate Black entrepreneurs, professionals, and community servants who help preserve and strengthen the legacy of Black Wall Street. The celebration will take place Wednesday, September 30, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. at COLIN’S Seafood & Grill. RSVP today at BlackWallStreetColins2026.Eventbrite.com.