A night charged with anticipation and glamour unfolded at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis, as the 40th Annual UNCF Atlanta Mayor’s Masked Ball, themed "Journey to 40," commenced in a dazzling display of elegance, purpose, and unforgettable entertainment.
Among the attendees, anticipation soared as the legendary singer-songwriter Stephanie Mills, celebrated for her iconic performances in Broadway's "The Wiz" and chart-topping hits like "Home" and "Never Knew Love Like This Before," graced the stage. Her presence promised an evening of enchantment and left an indelible mark on the gala's prestigious history.
Elegance and Purpose in Motion
Hosted by Atlanta’s Mayor Andre Dickens, the event radiated sophistication and meaning. The evening kicked off with a VIP reception at 6:00 P.M., followed by a sumptuous dinner at 7:30 P.M. Stephanie Mills' enchanting performance elevated the affair, resonating deeply with all present and leaving a lasting impression.
Established in 1983 by visionaries Billye Suber Aaron and Ambassador Andrew Young, the UNCF Atlanta Mayor’s Masked Ball has evolved into a cornerstone social gathering in Atlanta, uniting the city's most esteemed personalities in support of education and community growth.
Mayor Dickens' unwavering commitment to education and community development added depth to the event, promising to steer the gala towards greater success with his energy and leadership.
The honorary chair, Nicole “Nikki” Clifton, President of Social Impact at the UPS Foundation, brought further weight to the gala's purpose. Leading UPS’s global philanthropic endeavors, Clifton’s involvement aligned seamlessly with the event’s mission, addressing societal, humanitarian, and environmental needs.
Celebrating Education and Excellence
Esteemed sponsors such as UPS, Chick-fil-A, Delta Air Lines, Nike, Google, Norfolk Southern, and the Coca-Cola Company underscored their commitment to education and equity, emphasizing the pivotal role of education in fostering community advancement.
The UNCF Atlanta Mayor’s Masked Ball serves as a beacon of hope for education, empowering students through scholarships and transformative programs. Over the years, this gala has provided crucial support to countless students, ensuring access to quality education opportunities.
The gala’s impact extends to UNCF-Member Institutions like Clark Atlanta University, Spelman College, Morehouse College, The Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC), and Paine College, nurturing the aspirations of students in need and paving the way for promising futures.
For those seeking to learn more about this monumental event and support its noble cause, visiting UNCF.org/AtlantaMMB or calling 404.302.8623 is an invitation to join the movement celebrating education, excellence, and the journey towards brighter futures for our students and communities.
Championing Education and Empowerment
UNCF (United Negro College Fund) stands as the nation’s largest and most effective minority education organization, empowering over 60,000 students across 1,100 colleges and universities nationwide through scholarships, programs, and advocacy. It champions the importance of minority education and college readiness with a legacy spanning over 78 years.
Mayor’s Masked Ball Raised Nearly $4 Million to Support HBCU Students
This remarkable fundraising event orchestrated by Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens has achieved unprecedented success, raising close to $4 million to aid in sending students to Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs).
The 40th Annual Mayor’s Masked Ball shattered previous fundraising records, almost doubling the event's previous earnings. This substantial sum will be channeled into the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), a pivotal organization advocating for and supporting students attending HBCUs. Atlanta proudly hosts four member HBCUs, benefitting directly from this remarkable initiative.
Let us continue championing education and empowering our future leaders! Follow UNCF on Twitter at @UNCF for updates and news.
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