(Black PR Wire) Please join us in applauding the incredible accomplishments of our Area Offices during this year’s March Madness event season. From Charlotte to New Orleans, our teams have raised millions and united communities to support HBCU students. Let’s celebrate the highlights: 

UNCF “A Mind Is…”® National Gala – 2025 Event Wrap-Up

Total Raised: $1.6M+ | Guests: 600 

UNCF’s “A Mind Is…”® National Gala in our Nation’s Capital was a remarkable evening, celebrating a powerful legacy of opportunity, access, and excellence in education. The event brought together corporate partners, community leaders, philanthropists, and advocates united by a shared commitment to empowering the next generation of HBCU scholars. 

As the culminating event of UNCF’s Board Meeting, the gala underscored our mission to invest in students, strengthen our member HBCUs, and shape the future of higher education. UNCF President and CEO Dr. Michael L. Lomax opened the evening with a stirring call to action, reminding us all that while significant progress has been made, there is still critical work ahead. Our students continue to need our support, our advocacy, and our unwavering belief in their limitless potential. 

Charlotte Mayor’s Masked Ball

Total Raised: $1.7M+ | Guests: 1,158

The 11th Annual Charlotte MMB, presented by Lowe’s, was a magical evening led by Tiffany Jones and team, with electric moments including a $500K gift from Lowe’s CEO Marvin Ellison. With 70 sponsors, a star-studded guest list including Charlie Wilson, Stephanie Mills and Thomas Davis and inspiring student testimonies, the event raised $1.7M in support of our mission. 

UNCF “A Mind Is…” Gala – NYC Event Wrap-Up

Total Raised: $1.1M+ | Guests: 430

The 2025 UNCF “A Mind Is…”® Gala in New York City was a powerful evening dedicated to supporting historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and the students they serve. The event celebrated the enduring power of collective action and reaffirmed UNCF’s mission to advance access, opportunity, and excellence in education.

The evening featured an exciting auction and paddle raise, with guests showing strong support and enthusiasm. Hosted by DeMarco Morgan of ABC News and featuring a soulful performance by sibling band Infinity Song, the gala energized the community around the importance of investing in future HBCU leaders. UNCF extends heartfelt thanks to all sponsors and supporters who made the evening possible. Stay connected at UNCF.org/newyork and follow @UNCFNY for more updates.

Birmingham Mayor’s Masked Ball

Total Raised: $750K+ | Guests: 750+

With PNC Bank as presenting sponsor, the Birmingham team—led by Casi Ferguson—lit up the city, raising over half a million dollars. Honorees included local education champions and national radio icon Rickey Smiley. A special $25K match from PNC helped fuel a $55K Fund the Mission total.

Boston “A Mind Is…” Gala

Total Raised: $750K+ | Guests: 250

Led by Arleaya Martin and Jackie McDonald, Boston delivered a powerhouse event honoring Adage Capital, Santander Bank and Val Mosely. A moving reunion with Lighted Pathways students and a $200K+ paddle raise brought the mission to life.

New Orleans Mayor’s Masked Ball

Total Raised: $847K+ | Guests: 675

The sold-out 12th Annual MMB dazzled with co-hosts Kevin Frazier and Nischelle Turner, a vibrant performance by En Vogue and heartfelt speeches by Dr. Lomax, local HBCU presidents and our Masked Award honorees, Dottie Beletto and Mayor LaToya Cantrell.

Columbus, GA Mayor’s Masked Ball

Total Raised: $200K+ | Guests: 900+

The Columbus team closed the season strong under the leadership of Justine Boyd and the Atlanta team. With meaningful recognitions, inspiring words from UNCF scholar Mitchell Harris Jr. and a lively performance by Lakeside, the event exemplified community and commitment.

UNCF’s 24th Annual South Florida’s Luncheon

Total Raised: $249K+ | Guests?

UNCF’s 24th Annual South Florida Leader’s Luncheon, held December 13, 2024, in Fort Lauderdale, raised over $249,000 in support of HBCUs and their students. With strong participation from local leaders, corporate partners, and keynote speaker Mayor Michael Ryan, the event celebrated 80 years of impact under the theme “Honoring the Legacy, Transforming our Future.”

UNCF New Jersey Masked Ball

Total Raised: Nearly $300,000 | Guests 200

UNCF New Jersey celebrated 80 years of impact at its annual Masked Ball on July 13, 2024, at the Cedar Hill Golf and Country Club in Livingston, NJ. The evening featured moving student testimonials, vibrant entertainment, and inspiring remarks from honorary chair Sebastian Guth, president of Bayer US, alongside dedicated event leaders and sponsors—all in support of students and HBCUs.

Thank You!

A heartfelt thank you to all UNCF staff, volunteers and supporters across departments who made this record-breaking season possible. Your efforts are transforming lives, one student at a time. Let’s keep the momentum going!