UNCF’s “A Mind Is…”® Reception is one of UNCF’s premier fundraising and networking events, bringing together influential leaders, changemakers, and supporters for an inspiring evening of celebration and impact. This year’s exciting new location provides a vibrant backdrop for advancing educational opportunity, with proceeds supporting students across the state and strengthening higher education for generations to come. This highly anticipated event will also honor deserving leaders from the Triad area, while raising scholarship funds to benefit deserving students.

**Semi-Formal Attire: Suits & Cocktail Dresses with a twist, guests are encouraged to wear sneakers!

It is with great enthusiasm that we invite you to attend the 17th Annual UNCF San Antonio Leaders’ Luncheon, taking place on Wednesday, February 10, 2027. This inspiring charitable event will be held at the elegant Red Berry Estate, located at 856 Gembler Road, and will begin promptly at 11 a.m.

This year’s luncheon will feature an inspiring and dynamic panel discussion, Women Who Lead, featuring prominent female leaders across sectors, spotlighting leadership, innovation and community impact. We will also celebrate and honor extraordinary women who have made a significant impact locally, statewide and nationally.

The Leaders’ Luncheon provides essential financial support and raises awareness for UNCF’s mission. UNCF plays a transformative role in expanding access to higher education for all students – opening doors to meaningful careers, engaged citizenship and a lifelong commitment to service. Join San Antonio’s corporate, community and civic leaders, along with clergy, alumni, scholars and parents, as we come together to celebrate and invest in the promise of tomorrow’s leaders.

Net proceeds from this event will directly support UNCF’s mission to eliminate financial barriers to higher education for talented students. The 2027 UNCF San Antonio Leaders’ Luncheon will help strengthen our communities by supporting educational opportunities that empower students and uplift futures. Unite with us for a day of empowerment and celebration, all in support of education and opportunity. Sponsorship opportunities are available – reach out to learn more!

Join UNCF Los Angeles for an elegant evening celebrating education, leadership, and opportunity. The annual Masked Ball brings together community leaders, corporate partners, alumni, and supporters to raise scholarship funds that help students get to and through college while investing in the next generation of leaders.

The UNCF Leadership Conference is truly an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in a vibrant network with over 500 key players–including students, faculty, HBCU leaders, funding experts, sponsors, alumni and institutional representatives. This Leadership Conference uniquely combines the strengths of the UNCF National Alumni Council (NAC), the UNCF National Pre-Alumni Council (NPAC), National Alumni Associations (NAA) and Inter-Alumni Councils (IAC) to create a dynamic platform where impactful strategies are explored and lifelong relationships are established.

This conference is much more than a traditional conference. It is designed to empower every participant through interactive workshops, engaging sessions, keynote presentations led by industry experts and celebrations that honor academic and HBCU cultural phenomenon. By sharing ideas and experiences with influential decision makers, conference attendees not only elevate their own leadership skills but also contribute to the legacy of educational excellence that UNCF has championed for decades.

This UNCF Leadership Conference is an opportunity for you to step into a space where advocacy and innovation meet, and where combined voices can help shape the strategies and initiatives that will sustain and advance HBCU communities for generations to come. Whether to expand professional network, gain fresh perspectives, or explore collaborative projects, the UNCF Leadership Conference offers the perfect stage to elevate new ideas and initiatives.

Welcome to the Leadership Conference Hub

This “Conference Hub” is the Go-To Resource for all aspects of the Leadership Conference.

Conference Registration

• Student: UNCF Pre-Alumni & Non-UNCF Pre-alumni
• Alumni: PAC Advisors & Alumni
• Sponsors Registration
• College Presidents Registration
• Career Pathways Registration and Participant
• Product Vendors Applications

Conference Special Events

• The Welcome Reception
• Alumni Summit
• Legacy Gala: The 80^th
• Journey to Success Lunch
• Career Pathways Expo

Alumni and Student Awards

• Outstanding Young Alumni
• Hall of Honor (Outstanding Alumni)
• James E. Stamps Award
• Cecelia E. Washington Service Award
• Stephens-Fair Female Student Award

• Leadership Conference Overview
• Miss National UNCF Forms
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

FULL REGISTRATION FEE INCLUDES:

• Welcome Lunch (Thursday)
• J Crew “Dress for Success” (Thursday)
• Professional Headshots by Curtis McDowell (Thursday)
• Welcome Reception: “Homecoming” (Thursday evening)
• Continental Breakfast (Friday)
• Career Pathways (Friday)
• Journey to Success Lunch (Friday)
• Workshops by National Presenters (Friday & Saturday)
• Alumni Summit (Friday)
• UNCF Legacy Gala: The 80^th (Friday)
• Breakfast with Champions (Saturday)
• Miss National UNCF Coronation (Saturday)
• “Hour of Power” (Sunday)

CONFERENCE 2027 REGISTRATIONS

• Pre-alumni Registration Form
• Alumni/Affiliate Registration Form
• College Presidents Registration
• Career Pathways and Expo Registration and Participants
• Product Vendors Applications
• Miss National UNCF Forms

CONFERENCE 2027 ALUMNI AWARDS

These prestigious honors recognize exceptional individuals who have demonstrated outstanding dedication and impact—on their alma mater, within their communities, and through their commitment to the mission of UNCF.

Each participating institution selects one alumnus for the Hall of Honor (Outstanding Alumni Award) and one alumnus for the Outstanding Young Alumni Award.

These distinguished awards will be presented during the UNCF NAC Legacy Gala on Friday, February 26, 2027 • 7:30 p.m. Grand Ballroom, The Atlanta Hilton

CONFERENCE 2027 ALUMNI AWARDS

• 2027 NAC Conference: Outstanding Young Alumnus
• 2027 NAC Conference: Hall of Honor
• 2027 NAC Cecelia Washington Service Award
• 2027 NAC James E. Stamps Award 
• 2027 Legacy Award

CONFERENCE 2027 STUDENT AWARDS

• 2027 William “Bill” McGill Male Student Award
• 2027 Ernest Fair- Charles Stevens Female Student Award

LEGACY AWARD 

PRODUCT VENDORS APPLICATIONS

CONFERENCE TEAM LEADERS

• Alumni Awards: Dr. Kalvin Wall * awards@uncfnac.org * 252.289.5362
• Alumni Summit: Dr. Gregory Murphy * vpprograms@uncfnac.org
• Career Pathways: Dionte McClendon *Dionte.mcclendon@gmail.com* 713.231.6296
• Conference Logistics: Tony Hawkins * conference@uncfnac.org * 901.299.7353
• Coronation: Shakara Parks * coronation@uncfnac.org * 843.870.8171
• Legacy Gala: JoAnn Scott * nominations@uncfnac.org * 901.351.0376
• Pre-Alumni Councils * Tyler Davidson *npacadvisor@uncfnac.org * 404.723.0256
• Public Relations: Dr. Ro’chelle Williams * vppublicrelations@uncfnac.org * 202.510.8639
• Sponsorships: Sterling Washington * sterling.washington@uncf.org * 202.220.8882
• Vendors Market: Stephanie Jones* vendors@uncfnac.org * 609.760.6495
• Volunteers * Oneisha Hall * Oneisha_hall@yahoo.com * 769.798.4046
• Workshops Presenters: Dr. Gregory Murphy * vpprograms@uncfnac.org

GET TICKETS

The 5th Jacksonville UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball is a premier fundraising gala and major social event focusing on raising awareness of the need and benefits of a college education, the students UNCF serves and the contributions of historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), including Jacksonville’s very own Edward Waters University—Florida’s first HBCU and first independent institution of higher education.

Hosted by a diverse group of corporate sponsors, local businesses and professional organizations, the Jacksonville UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball, is an evening of celebration attended by civic leaders, alumni, dignitaries, volunteers and friends of UNCF and EWU. This must-attend event is full of fun, fashion, glitz and glamour, and supports UNCF’s mission of investing in Better Futures® for the young men and women we serve and by helping them move to and through college.

The 14th Annual UNCF New Orleans Mayor’s Masked Ball is a premier fundraising gala and major social event focusing on raising awareness of the need and benefits of a college education, the students UNCF serves and the contributions of historically Black colleges and universities.

Hosted by a diverse group of corporate sponsors, local businesses and professional organizations, the UNCF New Orleans Mayor’s Masked Ball is an evening of celebration attended by national celebrities, civic leaders, alumni, dignitaries, volunteers and friends of UNCF.

This must-attend event is full of fun, fashion, glitz and glamour and supports UNCF’s mission of investing in Better Futures® for the young men and women we serve and by helping them move to and through college.

The UNCF North Texas Mayors’ Masked Ball is a premier fundraising gala and major social event focused on raising awareness of the need and benefits of a college education, the students UNCF serves, and the contributions of historically Black colleges and universities. The UNCF North Texas Mayors’ Masked Ball is an evening of celebration attended by civic leaders, alumni, dignitaries, volunteers and friends of UNCF. This must-attend event is full of fun, fashion and glamour and supports UNCF’s mission of investing in Better Futures® for the young men and women we serve by helping them move to and through college.

This annual Washington, DC fundraising and social event focuses on raising awareness of the need and benefits of a college education, the students UNCF serves and the contributions of historically Black colleges and universities.

Hosted by generous national and local corporate sponsors, professional organizations and individual supporters, the National AMI Gala is an evening of celebration attended by national celebrities, civic leaders, alumni, dignitaries, volunteers and friends of UNCF.

Don’t miss this historical evening of fun that supports UNCF’s mission of investing in better futures for the young men and women we serve and by helping them move to and through college.

Join us for the UNCF Charlotte Mayor’s Masked Ball, the city’s premier gala and one of the year’s most anticipated social events! Celebrate an unforgettable evening of elegance, impact, and inspiration as community leaders, changemakers, and supporters come together to raise critical funds for deserving students across North Carolina. Together, we’re transforming lives through the power of education.

Attire: Black Tie with a Twist—full-length gowns and tuxedos paired with your favorite sneakers. 👟✨

The Columbus UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball is a premier fundraising gala and major social event focusing on raising awareness of the need and benefits of a college education, the students UNCF serves and the contributions of historically Black colleges and universities.

Hosted by a diverse group of corporate sponsors, local businesses and professional organizations, the Columbus UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball is an evening of celebration attended by national celebrities, civic leaders, alumni, dignitaries, volunteers and friends of UNCF. This must-attend event is full of fun, fashion, glitz and glamour, and supports UNCF’s mission of investing in Better Futures® for the young men and women we serve and by helping them move to and through college.

Join us on March 6, 2027, from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM for the highly anticipated UNCF Seattle Gala, an unforgettable evening celebrating the transformative power of education under this year’s inspiring theme, “Lighting the Way: From Promise to Prosperity.”

Held at the beautiful Hyatt Regency Seattle in the heart of downtown, the gala will bring together community leaders, advocates, and supporters for a night of inspiration, entertainment, and impact. Guests will enjoy captivating stories, live entertainment, and exciting live and silent auctions featuring exclusive items and one-of-a-kind experiences. Every dollar raised helps UNCF provide scholarships, academic support, and opportunities that empower talented students to achieve their dreams.

Together, we will illuminate pathways to success, turning promise into prosperity for future generations. Your support will help light the way for tomorrow’s leaders.

The Birmingham UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball is the premier philanthropic gala of the year—an unforgettable fusion of purpose, prestige and pure celebration. This dazzling affair shines a spotlight on the life-changing power of a college education, uplifting the students UNCF serves and honoring the enduring legacy and significant economic impact of HBCUs supported by UNCF.

UNCF-member institutions are not only centers of learning. They are economic engines, generating jobs, strengthening local businesses and fueling growth in communities across the nation. Every graduate they produce contributes to a stronger workforce, higher earning potential and long-term economic prosperity. Supporting UNCF doesn’t just change a student’s future; it strengthens the economic future of entire regions.

Hosted by an extraordinary coalition of corporate sponsors, visionary businesses and esteemed professional organizations, the evening gathers national celebrities, civic leaders, dignitaries, alumni and devoted supporters for a night unlike any other. Guests are immersed in a world of glamour, high style, captivating entertainment and show-stopping moments.

More than a gala—this is a movement. Every mask, every dance and every raised paddle fuels UNCF’s mission of investing in Better Futures®, empowering the next generation to not only reach college, but to thrive and graduate with confidence.

The Birmingham UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball:

Where brilliance meets elegance and where your support transforms lives, strengthens communities and drives economic progress for generations.

The 2027 UNCF Tee Off For Tomorrow Golf Tournament is more than a day on the greens–it’s a powerful fundraiser and networking experience designed to rally support for deserving students. Hosted by the UNCF Virginia Young Professional Advisory Council, alongside leading corporate sponsors, local businesses and proud alumni, the event drives both awareness and vital donations to help students get to and through college.

Together, we’re investing in stronger futures, thriving communities and driving socio-economic impact. Funds raised through this event directly benefit UNCF’s efforts to provide scholarships, mentorship and resources to talented but under-resourced students across the state of Virginia, helping them get to and through college. By participating, sponsors and players not only enjoy an exceptional golf experience but also invest in building brighter futures, stronger communities and a more educated workforce.

Join us for the 10th Annual UNCF Hampton Roads Mayors’ Masked Ball! The premier fundraising gala and major social event focuses on raising public awareness and large donations to support deserving students across Virginia.

Bringing together individuals, small businesses, corporate sponsors, celebrities, dignitaries, civic leaders, public officials, and alumni who support UNCF’s mission, the evening encourages every attendee to invest in better futures for all.

**Formal Attire: Black tie (full-length gowns and tuxedos)with a twist, guests are encouraged to wear sneakers!

A Celebration of Education and the Roaring 20s!

Join us for an unforgettable evening of elegance, impact, and purpose at the 9th Annual UNCF Upstate Mayors’ Masked Ball—the region’s premier fundraising gala and one of the most anticipated celebrations of the year.

Step into a world where timeless glamour meets transformational impact. Inspired by the bold sophistication of the Roaring Twenties, this years’ experience invites guests to embrace iconic style, adorned in elegant attire and signature masks, for a night that is both visually stunning and deeply meaningful.

This extraordinary evening brings together influential civic leaders, corporate partners, community champions, UNCF alumni, and emerging philanthropists—all united by a shared commitment to one powerful mission: investing in education and unlocking opportunity for the next generation.

Now more than ever, our students need us. This is your moment to:

Lead with purpose

Align your brand with impact

Be part of a movement that changes lives

Celebrate with purpose

Give with intention

Sponsor with impact

We invite you—whether you are a long-time supporter or joining us for the first time—to take your place among those who are shaping the future. If you have never participated before, this is your invitation.

The students we serve today will become tomorrow’s leaders, innovators, and changemakers.

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

We proudly welcome corporations, small businesses, faith-based organizations, and individual philanthropists to participate as sponsors of this signature event.

Sponsorship opportunities range from $2,500 to $50,000, offering a meaningful way to engage at a level that aligns with your goals and capacity. Individual tickets are available for $175.