| Nashville, TN — August 20, 2025 — The Stellar Gospel Music Awardsproudly celebrated its 40th Anniversary Preshow on Friday, August 15, 2025, at the iconic National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM) in Nashville, Tennessee. The milestone event was made possible through the generous title sponsorship of Compassion International, a leading global child sponsorship and Christian humanitarian aid organization headquartered in Colorado Springs, Colorado, that aims to positively influence the long-term development of children globally who live in poverty. The Preshow, filled with electrifying performances and heartfelt tributes, served as an opening highlight of the Stellar Awards weekend. It brought together Stellar Radio and Artist nominees at a fabulous formal dinner that presented over 25 Stellar Awards. Compassion International’s sponsorship underscored the organization’s shared mission with gospel music—to inspire hope, uplift communities, and create opportunities for generations to thrive. Robert Hawkins, the Chief Marketing Officer of Compassion International, addressed the audience. He affirmed the organization’s deep commitment to its vision of releasing children from poverty, emphasizing the importance of partnering with the gospel community to amplify Compassion’s mission and reach more children worldwide. Compassion’s Influencer Partnership Manager, Demetrus Alexander further shared a video of Compassion’s mission and opportunities for participation for the capacity-plus crowd of over 450 gospel artists, influencers, media and executives from major corporations. “Just as gospel music gives voice to faith, resilience, and hope, Compassion exists to bring those same values into the lives of children who need them most,” said Hawkins. “Partnering with the Stellar Awards at this historic 40th Anniversary is a powerful reminder of what can happen when faith, music, and service come together.” The Stellar Awards Preshow has long been recognized as a platform for emerging talent, industry innovators, and unsung heroes of gospel music. With Compassion International’s support, this year’s celebration reached new heights, blending world-class artistry with a global call to action for compassion and change. |
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| About the Stellar AwardsFounded by Don Jackson in 1985, the Stellar Gospel Music Awards is the premier event honoring excellence in the gospel music industry. For four decades, the Stellars have celebrated the artistry, innovation, and faith of gospel music creators, making it the “Greatest Night in Gospel Music.” About Compassion InternationalCompassion International is a Christ-centered, church-driven, child-focused organization committed to releasing children from poverty in Jesus’ name. Founded in 1952, Compassion partners with more than 8,000 local churches across 29 countries to provide holistic child development for over 2.3 million children worldwide. |
