Brent Solomon’s personal motto — “To whom much is given, much is required” — reflects a belief in service that aligns closely with his next public role.
The KSDK (Channel 5) co-anchor will emcee the 2026 Salute to Excellence in Business Awards Luncheon on Thursday, Feb. 19, at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis.
The annual luncheon honors regional business and nonprofit leaders while raising funds for education, workforce development and community initiatives — a mission Solomon said resonates with his commitment to uplifting others and reflects his scripture-inspired motto.
“It just means we always have the responsibility to uplift humanity. No one (achieves) success without someone who’s paved the way for them,” Solomon said. “So, we’re always responsible for making sure that we kind of raise the next generation, those who come behind us, to not only reach their full potential but somehow assist in their thriving in their success.”
Solomon, a native of Tampa, Florida, moved to St. Louis about four years ago after anchoring and reporting at WWBT in Richmond, Virginia. He said he is proud to now call Missouri home.
With nearly two decades in television news, Solomon currently co-anchors KSDK’s “5 On Your Side” newscast at 4 p.m. and reports on the station’s 10 p.m. weekday broadcasts.
Over the course of his career, Solomon has interviewed a range of national figures, including then-Vice President Joe Biden, the Rev. Jesse Jackson, Ambassador Andrew Young and singer Trey Songz. He said his most memorable interview, however, was with the late President Jimmy Carter.
“He seemed more like an uncle … someone who instilled in others manners and hospitality and just how to be a good person,” Solomon said. “It reminded me of how I should carry myself and interact with others, … just be humble because we’re all the same.”
Solomon, who has a bachelor’s and master’s degree in communication, said he chose journalism because he believes “presenting the unbiased truth and holding the powerful accountable helps viewers live better lives.”
This year’s Salute to Excellence program will also include recognition of Black Press Day on March 16, which highlights the Black Press’s historic and continuing role in informing communities, amplifying underrepresented voices and advocating for equity.
The luncheon will honor several leaders for their professional achievements and community impact:
- Keith Williamson, president of Centene Charitable Foundation, will receive the Lifetime Achiever in Business Award.
- Eric Rhone, entrepreneur and entertainment executive, will be recognized as Entrepreneur of the Year.
- Akberet Boykin Farr, Emerson’s vice president of human resources for corporate functions, will receive the Corporate Executive of the Year Award.
- Leslie Gill, president and CEO of Rung for Women, will be honored as Nonprofit Executive of the Year.
The Salute to Excellence in Business has become the foundation’s signature event celebrating leadership, innovation and economic empowerment across the St. Louis region.
Proceeds from the luncheon support the foundation’s initiatives in education, workforce development and community engagement.
Solomon said he looks forward to helping spotlight the honorees.
“Anytime we get to honor our own … businesses that are thriving in our area or people who are committed to our community … that’s what it’s all about, recognizing our own.”
Sylvester Brown Jr. is the Deaconess Foundation Community Advocacy Fellow.