Events

Join us on March 14, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM for the highly anticipated UNCF Seattle Gala, an evening dedicated to empowering the next generation of leaders through education.

This remarkable event will take place at the stunning Hyatt Regency in the heart of downtown Seattle, 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 theme, Seeds of Hope.

The 2026 “A Mind Is…” New York Gala will recognize outstanding partners who are helping to advance educational and career opportunities for deserving students. The funds raised will help ensure more students have access to a life-changing college education and the pathways to realize their fullest potential.

Since 1944, UNCF has assisted more than 550,000 young men and women in attaining their college degrees. We are one of the nation’s largest and most effective supporters of higher education and serve as a leading advocate for college-bound students, dedicated to supporting historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and ensuring first-generation college students persist and achieve a college education.

Our 81st anniversary theme, “From Promise to Prosperity: UNCF Lights the Way,” reflects our mission to turn educational commitments into community-wide prosperity. We support students through scholarships and internship programs, strengthen our 37 member colleges and universities, and advocate for an equitable education for all. As economic catalysts, HBCUs don’t just educate—they elevate. They turn promise into generational wealth, boost economies, and prepare the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers.

Join us for the most highly anticipated fundraising event of the year — the UNCF Charlotte Mayor’s Masked Ball, presented by Coca-Cola Consolidated, Inc.! The premier fundraising gala and major social event, focuses on raising public awareness and large donations to support deserving students across North Carolina.

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!

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 for an unforgettable evening at the Mayor’s Masked Ball, hosted by UNCF – Philadelphia on March 21 from 6:00 to 10:00 PM at the elegant Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, located at 1201 Filbert Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106.

This enchanting event will feature a live auction filled with exclusive items and experiences, a silent auction brimming with unique treasures, and an exciting raffle that promises thrilling prizes. Attendees will don their finest masks for a night of glamour and philanthropy, all while supporting UNCF’s mission to provide educational opportunities for students in need.

Prepare for an evening of elegance, excitement, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in our community!

The 14th Annual Mayor’s Luncheon will serve as a platform to support UNCF’s mission of eliminating financial barriers to higher education for deserving students. Join us for this unique opportunity to connect with corporate, community, civic leaders, and clergy to celebrate and invest in the promise of tomorrow’s leaders.

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 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