UNCF Columbus’ Premier Fundraising Event Resulted in Donations Totaling Nearly $200K to Support HBCUs

The legendary band “Lakeside” provided the entertainment

More than 900 guests gathered at the Columbus Convention & Trade Center on Saturday, March 22, for the United Negro College Fund Columbus, Ga., Mayor’s Masked Ball, raising nearly $200,000 to support students and UNCF-member institutions.

The event also honored 14 donors by inducting them into the UNCF "A Mind I A Terrible Thing To Waste"^®  Annual Giving Society, recognizing their generous contributions to education.

Hosted by The Honorable Mayor B.H. "Skip" Henderson and his wife, Karon Henderson, this year’s gala paid tribute to longtime UNCF supporters Bruce and Charonda Huff and Rev. Dr. J.L. and Dr. Jacqueline Flakes. Both couples received the prestigious Masked Award for their outstanding contributions to the community.

As dedicated advocates for educational equity, these distinguished honorees exemplify leadership, commitment and service to the Columbus community. The Christine Barksdale Dawson Volunteer Award was given to Taylor Turnage for her meaningful impact through volunteering for UNCF.

UNCF, Aflac Scholar and Georgia State student Mitchell Harris Jr., shared his inspiring journey of securing an internship with Mayor Henderson after meeting him at the 2022 Mayor’s Masked Ball. In a full-circle moment, Mitchell already has begun giving back by donating to UNCF, embodying the spirit of philanthropy and mentorship.

HBCU Albany State College alum and Ga. State Rep. Teddy Reese led the Fund the Mission appeal, successfully raising additional funds from esteemed leaders including Congressman Sanford Bishop, State Rep. Carolyn Hughley, former State Rep. Calvin Smyre, Phenix City Mayor Eddie Lowe and his wife, Deborah Lowe, and former Columbus Mayor Teresa Tomlinson. Also in attendance was Fort Valley State University President, Dr. Paul Jones.

"I would like to thank Pat Eldridge, the dynamic Columbus steering committee, sponsors, elected officials, faith leaders and the entire Columbus community for their outpouring of support," said UNCF Assistant Vice President Justine Boyd. "Their contributions are crucial in creating access and opportunities for all. The funds raised are vital to the work and mission of UNCF."

The evening concluded on a high note with a spectacular performance by the legendary band Lakeside, known for their iconic hits such as “It’s All The Way Live,” “Fantastic Voyage,” and “Raid.” Guests enjoyed an unforgettable night of music, philanthropy and celebration.

In 1944, UNCF was founded to help champion Black higher education through joint institutional fundraising, providing new scholarships, fellowships, programs and supports for our 37 private member institutions so they can continue to advance their respective missions. However, students from other HBCUs can receive funding as well.

Member colleges in Georgia and Alabama are: Clarke Atlanta University in Atlanta, Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, Morehouse College in Atlanta, Spelman College in Atlanta, Paine College in Augusta, Ga., Miles College in Fairfield, Ala., Oakwood University in Huntsville, Ala., Stillman College in Tuscaloosa, Ala., Talladega College in Talladega, Ala., and Tuskegee University in Tuskegee, Ala.

Since it's founding the UNCF has helped more than 50,000 students earn their college degrees. Each year, they award more than $100 million in scholarships to students attending more than 1,100 schools across the country, including its "prestigious" network of 37 HBCUs.

Please mark your calendar for the Campaign Kickoff in August!