UNCF Philadelphia Celebrates Fifth Annual Mayor’s Masked Ball March 18
Event to raise public awareness and funding for deserving students
PHILADELPHIA—More than 600 business, civic and education leaders are expected to attend the Philadelphia Mayor’s Masked Ball on March 18 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. Hosted by a diverse group of community leaders, including Philadelphia Mayor Kenney and Dr. Michael L. Lomax, president and CEO of UNCF, the signature fundraising gala aims to provide vitally needed funding to get students to and through college.
“With the continued support of Mayor Kenney and the Philadelphia community, UNCF is able to make a greater impact in the lives of area students,” said Lomax. “In order to secure thriving communities, we must build a bridge to quality education for all.”
For their dedication and support of UNCF, the 2017 MASKED recipients are Julie Coker Graham, president and CEO of the Philadelphia Convention and Visitor’s Bureau; the Right Bishop Gregory Ingram and Rev. Jessica Ingram of the First Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church; and Daniel J. Hilferty, president and CEO of Independence Blue Cross.
“UNCF is proud to recognize our 2017 MASKED honorees for their passion in helping the next generation of leaders,” said Gregory Lyles, area development director, UNCF Philadelphia. “Whether through education or providing a safe learning environment, our honorees raise the bar high and encourage our community to pass it forward.”
Sheinelle Jones, news anchor of NBC’s “Weekend Today” and Rick Williams, WPVI news anchor will be the masters of ceremonies for the gala, which features a silent auction, a parade of stars and dignitaries and dancing. Lyve Band and DJ Gary O will provide the entertainment for the evening.
Event chairs are Wendy Hamilton, general manager of SugarHouse Casino and Keith Leaphart, brand manager for Replica Creative. Sponsors for the event include SugarHouse Casino; Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau; PECO; First Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church; Independence Blue Cross; Jefferson Health; Pennsylvania Convention Center Authority; PNC Bank; Wells Fargo; Penn Towne Center; Links, Inc.; WPVI-TV, 6ABC; E.I. du Point de Nemours and Company; and AmeriHealth Caritas.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit UNCF.org/philadelphiammb or contact Greg Lyles at 215.925.9044 x 1047 or greg.lyles@uncf.org
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About UNCF
UNCF (United Negro College Fund) is the nation’s largest and most effective minority education organization. To serve youth, the community and the nation, UNCF supports students’ education and development through scholarships and other programs, strengthens its 37 member colleges and universities, and advocates for the importance of minority education and college readiness. UNCF institutions and other historically black colleges and universities are highly effective, awarding nearly 20 percent of African American baccalaureate degrees. UNCF awards more than $100 million in scholarships annually and administers more than 400 programs, including scholarship, internship and fellowship, mentoring, summer enrichment, and curriculum and faculty development programs. Its logo features the UNCF torch of leadership in education and its widely recognized motto, “A mind is a terrible thing to waste.”® Today, UNCF supports more than 60,000 students at more than 1,100 colleges and universities. Learn more at UNCF.org, or for continuous news and updates, follow UNCF on Twitter @UNCF.