Events

The 3rd Annual UNCF Tampa Bay Mayor’s Masked Ball is a premier fundraising gala and major social event focusing on raising awareness of the need and benefits of 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 3rd Annual UNCF Tampa Bay Mayor’s 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.

Join us for an unforgettable evening at the 2026 UNCF A Mind Is Gala. This prestigious event, supported by leading technology firms, corporate sponsors, local leadership and distinguished individuals, promises an evening of elegance and inspiration. Mingle with local dignitaries, civic leaders, and business executives, all united in their commitment to UNCF’s mission of empowering the next generation through STEM education.

Experience the glamour, the cause, and the community spirit that make this Gala a must-attend affair!

This is more than a Gala – it’s a powerful opportunity to honor legacy, champion excellence and make a lasting difference in our community.

For sponsorship and ticket information, please contact Candy Calhoun at Candy.Calhoun@UNCF.org

Join us on May 9, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM for the highly anticipated UNCF Portland Gala, an evening dedicated to empowering the next generation of leaders through education.

This remarkable event will take place at the stunning Avenue Portland in the heart of downtown Portland, where attendees will enjoy a night filled with inspiring stories, live entertainment, and the chance to make a difference. Guests will have the opportunity to participate in both a live auction and a silent auction, featuring exclusive items and experiences, all while supporting UNCF’s mission to provide scholarships and educational resources for students of color.

Together, we will celebrate achievements and pave the way for future success—your presence will help transform lives!

Attire is formal cocktail in flowery shades of spring to commemorate our them, Seeds of Hope.

Get ready for the premier fundraising gala and social event of the year! Join us for an unforgettable night of glamour, impact, and celebration at the UNCF Masked Ball Twin Cities — 10th Anniversary Celebration.

Party with a purpose on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at the stunning Omni Viking Lakes Hotel. Mingle with top Twin Cities corporations, civic leaders, and changemakers as we unite to advance UNCF’s mission of empowering the next generation through education.

🎭 Ten Years. One Legacy. Endless Impact. Celebrate a decade of excellence, honor, and opportunity — all in one extraordinary evening

Put on your best mardi gras festive formal, wear your mask and be enchanted by a live New Orleans brass band, student testimonials, a live auction of memorable experiences, raffle for exciting prizes and a paddle raise of 7 levels in 7 minutes! End the night with dancing evening that will feature a live New Orleans style band

About the UNCF New Jersey Masked Ball

On May 30, 2026, UNCF New Jersey will host its annual Masked Ball, celebrating the organization’s 82nd anniversary. This landmark event provides a special opportunity to honor leaders and organizations within our community whose personal and professional commitments are helping create better futures for young people—across New Jersey and throughout the nation.

Over the years, UNCF New Jersey has recognized outstanding contributors to this mission. Past individual honorees include: Dante Hall, retired NFL wide receiver; Alex Gorsky, former chairman of J&J; Rick Thigpen, EVP and Foundation President, PSE&G; Kevin Cummings, chairman, Investors Bancorp; George D. Martin, retired NY Giants player; Linda Bowden, president, PNC Bank; Darrell K. Terry, Sr., president, Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, Barnabas Health; Dottie Brienza, Merck; Sheryl Gordon, AFSCME; and Miles Berger, chairman, Berger Organization. Past corporate honorees include Enterprise, J&J, Bayer Corporation, SUEZ, Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, and PSEG.

Since 1944, UNCF has supported more than 500,000 young men and women on their journey to earning a college degree. Our annual Masked Ball remains a signature fundraising event that directly benefits students attending UNCF-member colleges and universities, as well as nearly 1,100 other colleges across America. It is one of the most meaningful opportunities to invest in Better Futures.

Funds raised through the Masked Ball will help ensure that more young people with limited financial resources have a clear and supported pathway to attend—and graduate from—college.

We invite you to join us on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at the Charlotte Convention Center for the 24th Annual UNCF Maya Angelou Women Who Lead Luncheon (MAWWLL). This signature fundraising event for UNCF is named in honor of our beloved friend and volunteer, Dr. Maya Angelou.

The day begins at 10 a.m. with shopping, mimosas, live music, and red carpet photos, leading into an elegant 12 p.m. luncheon featuring an inspiring program, the prestigious Maya Angelou Women Who Lead Award presentation, and the exciting Hatitude! competition. During the luncheon, we will celebrate and honor extraordinary women who have made a significant impact locally, statewide, and nationally.

Your support is more critical than ever to help UNCF, our member colleges and universities, and the students we serve achieve their dreams. Join us for a day of elegance, empowerment, and celebration, all in support of education and opportunity.

Sponsorship opportunities are available—reach out to learn more!

Join us at the 11th Annual UNCF 5K Run/Walk for Education Tampa Bay!

5K Walk/Run with us in our mission to ensure that every student has the opportunity to pursue their academic dreams. The UNCF 5K Walk/Run for Education Tampa Bay is not just an event; it’s a powerful movement dedicated to promoting educational equity and supporting students from all backgrounds in achieving their highest potential.

About the 5K Walk/Run for Education:

The UNCF 5K Walk/Run for Education is a flagship event that has brought together students, educators, community leaders, and supporters of higher education from across the region for eleven (11) years. This annual event is crucial for raising awareness and funds to support the mission of UNCF). For over 82 years, UNCF has been committed to providing scholarships, internships, fellowships, and other vital resources to help students attend and graduate from college, particularly those attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Get Involved: Register to Walk/Run in this qualified timed race. Your participation helps us raise the funds necessary to support students’ educational journeys.

Donate:

Your generous contributions make a significant impact. Every dollar raised supports first-generation students, scholarships, internships, and other essential resources for students.

Fundraise:

Join us as a fundraiser and rally your network to support our cause. Set your fundraising goals and share your personal story to inspire others to donate.

Volunteer:

Volunteers are the backbone of our event. Lend your time and talents to help us create a memorable and successful Walk for Education.

Why Support UNCF?

Your support ensures deserving students have access to the resources they need to succeed in college and beyond.

By participating, donating, or volunteering, you contribute to:

• Providing scholarships that make college affordable
• Supporting HBCUs that offer unique educational environments
• Promoting college readiness and career development programs
• Ensuring that all students, regardless of their background, have the chance to succeed academically

Inspirational Speakers: Hear from UNCF scholars and alumni who will share their journeys and the impact of UNCF on their lives.

Live Performances: Enjoy performances that showcase local talent.

Family-Friendly Activities: Participate in activities designed for all ages, making it a fun and educational experience for everyone.

Stay Connected:

Stay updated on event details, fundraising tips, and more by following us on social media. Use the hashtag #UNCFWalkTampaBay2026 to share your experiences and connect with other participants. (Add buttons: Facebook: www.facebook.com/tampabayarea/ Instagram: www.instagram.com/uncfncfl)