Dr. Donald M. Suggs Entry and Lobby Dedicated at Downtown’s America’s Center

Explore St. Louis hosted a special dedication ceremony honoring Dr. Donald M. Suggs, publisher and executive of The St. Louis American, with the naming of the Dr. Donald M. Suggs Entry and Lobby at America’s Center Convention Complex Wednesday, July 30. This recognition celebrates Dr. Suggs’ transformative leadership in journalism, health advocacy, education and civic engagement in St. Louis and beyond.

Since becoming publisher and owner of The St. Louis American in 1984, Dr. Suggs has worked tirelessly to ensure the paper’s accessibility to the region’s Black community, making it a free publication to maximize its reach. Under his leadership, The American became the most decorated Black newspaper in the country, receiving national recognition and more than 1,000 awards for journalism, advertising and service. 

Beyond the newsroom, Dr. Suggs has championed health literacy, educational opportunities and civic excellence through initiatives like the Salute to Excellence awards and the creation of The St. Louis American Foundation. He was a long-time president of the Alexander-Suggs Gallery of African Art based in St. Louis and New York City. In addition, he was the first African-American to serve as president of Explore St. Louis, then known as the Convention and Visitors Bureau of St. Louis. 

His legacy is cemented not only in media but also through the numerous scholarships and recognitions that bear his name at leading institutions across Missouri.