RICHMOND, Va. — Virginia Union University will recognize former NBA All-Star and distinguished alumnus Charles Oakley with the Beacon of Light Award at the 2026 Legacy Awards Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at the Greater Richmond Convention Center.

The Beacon of Light Award honors individuals whose leadership, excellence, and commitment to community service illuminate pathways for others. Oakley's remarkable career in professional sports, business, and philanthropy exemplifies the values of perseverance, leadership, and impact that define Virginia Union University.

A proud VUU alumnus, Oakley was a dominant force for the Panthers from 1981 to 1985, finishing his collegiate career with 2,273 points and 1,664 rebounds. During his senior season, he averaged 24.3 points and 17.3 rebounds per game, leading the nation in rebounding and earning NCAA Division II National Player of the Year honors in 1985. That same year, he was selected ninth overall in the 1985 NBA Draft, launching a professional career that would span nearly two decades.

Over 19 seasons in the NBA, Oakley became known for his relentless defense, rebounding, and leadership on the court. He played for several teams, including the Chicago Bulls, New York Knicks, Toronto Raptors, Washington Wizards, and Houston Rockets. Over the course of his career, Oakley recorded 12,417 points, 12,205 rebounds, and 3,217 assists, consistently ranking among the league's most respected power forwards.

Beyond his success in basketball, Oakley has built an impressive legacy as an entrepreneur, author, and philanthropist. He is the founder of the Charles Oakley Foundation, which focuses on addressing hunger and poverty in underserved communities. Through initiatives such as Oak Out Hunger, he has helped provide thousands of meals to families across the country.

Oakley has also expanded his impact through successful business ventures in hospitality and automotive services, and through his presence in media and entertainment. His memoir, The Last Enforcer, offers an inside look at his career and life lessons learned both on and off the court.

"Charles Oakley embodies the spirit of excellence and resilience that defines Virginia Union University," said Hakim J. Lucas. "From his legendary basketball career to his continued work as a philanthropist and entrepreneur, he remains an inspiration to our students and our community."

The Legacy Awards Gala is one of Virginia Union University's premier annual events, celebrating individuals and organizations whose leadership uplifts communities and advances opportunity. Proceeds from the gala support student scholarships, academic initiatives, and institutional priorities that strengthen the university's mission of transforming lives through education.

The evening will bring together alumni, corporate leaders, community partners, and supporters of higher education to celebrate Oakley's enduring legacy and the continued impact of Virginia Union University.