The United Negro College Fund (UNCF) Chicago will celebrate its 25th Annual Black & White Ball on June 14, 2025, with a commitment to raising $1 million in scholarships and highlighting the organization's ongoing mission to support educational opportunities for Black students.
The gala, returning to its traditional black and white theme, will honor two exceptional contributors: Ariel Investments, receiving the 'A Mind Is...' Corporate Award, and Nadia Rawlinson, co-owner and operating chair of the Chicago Sky, who will be presented with the 'A Mind Is...' Trailblazer Award.
Gala Chair Sherina Edwards, an alumna of Howard University and Spelman College, emphasized the event's significance. As a testament to UNCF's impact, the organization awarded 541 scholarships to Illinois students between 2022 and 2023, demonstrating its critical role in supporting higher education for Black students.
The evening promises to be a vibrant celebration, featuring entertainment by the R&B group After 7 and providing a platform to discuss educational equity. The event underscores UNCF's broader mission of supporting minority education, with member institutions producing a significant percentage of bachelor's, master's, doctoral, and STEM degrees earned by Black students nationwide.
By creating opportunities for higher education, UNCF continues to invest in the potential of students who might otherwise face significant barriers to academic advancement. The Black & White Ball represents more than a fundraising event; it is a powerful statement about the importance of educational access and opportunity.
