Celebrating Black History Month – Black Excellence in My Family: Gus Hatchett

As part of my Black History Month series, Black Excellence in My Family, I’m honoring the everyday excellence found in my own family history. My grandfather, Gus Hatchett, was Black excellence in more ways than one. He was a member of the singing group The United Harmonizers, who made history as the first African American group to have a show on our local radio station in Newport, Arkansas.

But my grandfather’s excellence didn’t stop there. He was also a devoted husband and father, a deacon in his church, and a hardworking man who was deeply respected in our community. His life reflected faith, responsibility, and commitment, not only to his family, but to the people around him.

Family history research has taught me that Black excellence is rarely just one thing. It is layered. It shows up in talents shared publicly and in quiet service behind the scenes. My grandfather’s legacy reminds me that excellence is found in how we show up for our families, our communities, and each other.

Honoring his story is one way I celebrate Black History Month and ensure that his contributions are remembered and valued.