By: Terry Allen:
Lucille “Big Mama” Allen was a woman of strength, vision, and conviction. Born in an era where obstacles for Black women were heavy and constant, she lived her life as proof that a steadfast spirit, anchored in faith and discipline, could rise above limitations. Big Mama believed that mediocrity was not our destiny—that excellence is a choice, and greatness is an attitude. She taught that our mindset, not our circumstances, ultimately determines how high we can climb. Her words, “Your attitude will determine your altitude,” remain a blueprint for every generation.
That lesson is on full display in the life and work of Al Wash. For fifty years, Wash has executed with focus and purpose, proving that a made-up mind can override mediocrity every single time. As the founder of ALW Entertainment, he has built a career shaping culture, driving commerce, and elevating Black excellence on national stages. His company is known for full-service entertainment production, promoting jazz and gospel tours, and working alongside icons such as Prince, Tyler Perry, Kirk Franklin, Fantasia, Gladys Knight, Boys II Men, and more. Yet, his impact is most deeply felt through his leadership in one of the crown jewels of Black college sports—the State Fair Classic.
The Classic, now celebrating its 100th year, stands as the third largest attended HBCU rivalry in the nation, drawing crowds of more than 60,000. Under Wash’s stewardship, the event has become more than a football game—it’s a cultural touchstone, an economic engine, and a platform that pours millions into Black-owned businesses and communities. With traditions like the Prairie View A&M Marching Storm and Grambling’s World Famed Tiger Band, along with music legends gracing the stage, the Classic represents the very best of who we are when we blend tradition, talent, and tenacity.
Al Wash is no stranger to recognition. As a City Men Cook Wall of Honor inductee and a Baker’s Dozen Hero, his work has been celebrated as a living testimony of perseverance and vision. But beyond the accolades, it is his relentless consistency—fifty years of staying the course—that shows us all the truth of Big Mama’s wisdom. Wash has proven that focus, determination, and an unshakable belief in purpose can take you from a local stage to a national platform, all while lifting up others along the way.
Big Mama’s message was clear: a made-up mind will always rise above mediocrity. Al Wash has lived that lesson. Through his commitment to excellence, his impact on culture, and his investment in our communities, he reminds us that the sky is never the limit when your attitude is set on altitude.
Call to Action: Big Mama challenged us to fix our mindset first, because attitude fuels destiny. Take her words to heart—decide today to rise above mediocrity, to focus on excellence, and to commit to lifting others as you climb. Like Al Wash, you can turn vision into legacy. The only limit is the altitude you set for yourself.
Terry Allen is an NABJ award-winning Journalist, DEI expert, PR professional, and founder of the charity – Vice President at Focus- PR, Founder of City Men Cook, and Dallas Chapter President of NBPRS.org
