UNCF to celebrate 75 Years of Impact at upcoming 19th Annual Chicago “A Mind is …” Gala

UNCF to celebrate 75 Years of Impact at upcoming 19th Annual Chicago “A Mind is …” Gala

Star-studded gala features NBA players Anthony Davis and Derrick Rose, Gov. J.B. Pritzker, Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton; event to benefit historically black colleges and universities and deserving local students

During the past 75 years, UNCF (United Negro College Fund) has empowered nearly half a million students to earn college degrees. As the largest and most effective minority education organization in the United States, UNCF actively supports 37 private historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and advocates for minority higher education. As it marks such a major milestone, UNCF is planning a year-long celebration via its fundraising events across the country including the 19th annual UNCF “A Mind is …” Gala set for 6 p.m., Saturday, June 22 at the Hyatt Regency Chicago.

Nearly 600 guests are expected to attend, including honorary chairs Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton; Dr. Michael L. Lomax, president and CEO, UNCF; and two Chicago native NBA players lending support as presenting sponsors—Anthony Davis of the New Orleans Pelicans and Derrick Rose of the Minnesota Timberwolves. Leon Rogers, radio personality for 107.5 WGCI, will serve as master of ceremonies

“Being from the South Side of Chicago, I feel a special motivation to help those from my hometown achieve success,” said Davis. “Many children from the South Side can use a helping hand, and UNCF working in Chicago is doing just that in so many ways. I’m proud to be a presenting sponsor of this year’s ‘A Mind Is…Gala.’” Davis is joined by fellow NBA player Rose who said, “It’s the support of UNCF that allows many kids from my hometown and beyond to see their dreams come true.”

“We expect this year’s gala to be absolutely phenomenal as we celebrate 75 years of success,” said Priscilla Stratten, area development director, UNCF. “And that includes the local chapters that are working on the ground to help African American students become highly qualified college graduates. I’m proud of what we do, and others will see just a glimpse of it at our gala.”

The fundraiser is chaired by Toi Salter, president, Salter Financial Management. This year’s honorees, who’ve led the charge in championing a quality education for all, include the Black McDonald’s Operators Association (BMOA) (receiving the Community Award) and Charles Matthews, president, CEO, Peoples Gas and North Shore Gas, and HBCU alumnus of both Talladega College and Atlanta University (receiving the Alumni Award).

“As an alumni honoree, I’m so thankful for UNCF and all the organization has done for me,” said Matthews. “I’m here today because of the support I’ve received. There is no other organization that provides the educational foundation like UNCF.”

Last year, more than $3.7 million was awarded to 266 Chicago students pursuing a higher education. “With the commitment of the community and this year’s sponsors—American Airlines, Aramark, Boeing, BMO Harris Bank, Chase, Chicago Defender, ComEd, ITW, KPMG, Louis and Diane Carr, NBC5 Chicago, Peoples Gas, Safe Speed, Taj Gibson, Timothy Hardaway, Jr., USBank and Wintrust—UNCF will continue to raise the bar in providing our young people with the resources needed to succeed,” Stratten added.

The signature fundraising event will feature a VIP reception, a live auction, student testimonials, an elegant dinner and dancing. Entertainment will be provided by one of R&B’s most beloved groups, The Whispers.

For sponsorship or ticket information, please visit UNCF.org/amichicago.

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