The City of Detroit has designated May 27 as Violet T. Lewis Day, commemorating the impact of the pioneering educator, business leader, and community advocate during a ceremony on Wednesday at Pensole Lewis College of Business & Design.
The proclamation was presented on behalf of Mayor Mary Sheffield’s administration to Dr. Violet Ponders, Lewis’ granddaughter and namesake, during an event attended by educators, elected officials, students, entrepreneurs, and community supporters at the college’s Detroit campus.
The annual observance recognizes Lewis’ role in expanding educational opportunities by establishing Lewis Business College in 1928. After relocating the institution to Detroit in 1939, Lewis transformed the school into a hub for Black higher education and workforce development. More than 20,000 students attended the institution, which later became Michigan’s only historically Black college.
The announcement arrives amid ongoing national conversations about safeguarding Black educational institutions and strengthening avenues for economic advancement.
Organizers estimated that between 250 and 300 people participated in the celebration. Attendees included representatives from the Gilbert Family Foundation, Apple, Carhartt, StockX, Nike, and adidas.
Participants, many wearing violet attire in tribute to Lewis, engaged in activities highlighting her contributions and influence. The program included storytelling exhibits, historical displays, and a violet-themed specialty drink prepared by Fixins Soul Kitchen. Guests also received violet flower seeds and personalized planters to symbolize the lasting growth of Lewis’ work.
The observance also drew members of Gamma Phi Delta Sorority, Incorporated, which Lewis helped establish in 1943 with her sister, Elizabeth A. Garner. The organization was founded to foster leadership opportunities and professional development for women.
Lewis launched Lewis Business College during a period when Black Americans, especially Black women, faced significant barriers to education and employment. Through her efforts, generations of students gained access to business training and career opportunities.
The institution entered a new chapter in 2022 when designer and educator Dr. D’Wayne Edwards revived the college, reestablishing it as the nation’s only design-focused historically Black college and university while maintaining Lewis’ name and mission.
“We are honored to celebrate Violet T. Lewis’ legacy and continue the mission she began,” Edwards said. “This declaration reflects the transformative power of education, opportunity, and institutional impact.”
Ponders said the city’s action serves as a reminder of the enduring significance of Lewis’ contributions.
“My grandmother understood that education was not simply about learning — it was about access, dignity, independence, and the ability to transform lives across generations,” Ponders said. “To witness the City of Detroit formally recognize her contributions in the community where her work impacted thousands of lives is deeply meaningful.”
City leaders said the annual observance will recognize Black educational excellence, institutional leadership, and the continuing influence of historically Black institutions on culture, business, and economic opportunity.
