The United Negro College Fund (UNCF) Chicago's 25th Annual 'A Mind Is…' Gala recently achieved a remarkable feat by raising $1,005,600, a testament to the community's commitment to supporting education for underserved students. The event, marked by its return to a Black and White theme, brought together over 500 guests, including notable figures such as Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton, and Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, who all contributed to the evening's success.
Lisa Rollins, UNCF Regional Development Director, emphasized the importance of the funds raised, stating they would provide essential support for students. The gala also honored Ariel Investments and Nadia Rawlinson, Co-owner and Operating Chair of The Chicago Sky, for their dedication to ensuring students not only enter but graduate from college. These recognitions underscore the gala's mission to invest in better futures for students.
The evening featured a live auction led by auctioneer Gee Scott, offering luxurious travel packages, with proceeds going towards college scholarships. Testimonials from scholarship recipients Cori' Anne White and Jamal D. Chambers highlighted the transformative impact of UNCF's support. From 2022 to 2023, UNCF awarded 541 college scholarships to students in Illinois, demonstrating the organization's significant role in higher education.
Gala Chair Sherina Edwards, an alumna of Howard University and Spelman College, reflected on the importance of the event in light of recent cuts to education funding. The evening's entertainment was provided by the R&B group After 7, adding a celebratory note to the fundraiser. UNCF's revised motto, 'a mind is a terrible thing to waste, but a wonderful thing to invest in™,' perfectly encapsulates the gala's purpose and the ongoing need for community support in education.
