Houstonians Raise over $676K (and counting) for South Texas Students at UNCF A Mind Is Gala

UNCF’s (United Negro College Fund) “A Mind Is …”® Gala, held on Nov. 15, was a prestigious and unforgettable evening. The event raised more than $676,000 to support South Texas students, UNCF-member institutions, and other HBCUs, helping students of color access and complete their college education

The evening was unforgettable, bringing together 550 Houstonians, including representatives from the Mayor’s office, corporate partners, educators, religious leaders, community influencers, and alumni from UNCF’s 37 member institutions. This year’s theme, Homecoming – We’re Better Together, brought the community together in a beautiful display of unity, joy and pride. Guests dazzled in stunning black-tie attire and creative “homecoming drip,” proudly representing their Greek organizations, schools, civic groups and community organizations.

The event opened with a moment of silence in honor of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, an avid UNCF supporter and former attendee of this event. This year UNCF South Texas honorees included Chef Chris Williams, The Links, Incorporated – Houston Cluster and Dr. Terence H. Fontaine. Each was celebrated for their steadfast commitment to education and unwavering support of UNCF. Grammy® award-winning DJ, producer, rapper and writer DJ Spinderella provided the evening’s entertainment.

A new highlight at this year’s event was the Wine Pull, which proved to be a huge hit, selling out completely! Guests also enjoyed the excitement of purchasing raffle tickets for eight incredible prize packages, with the addition of a surprise bonus package that added to the fun and anticipation. UNCF is grateful to all the sponsors, donors and attendees who made the Houston 35th Anniversary “A Mind Is…” Gala a resounding success. The event exemplified the shared effort and commitment towards generating a brighter future for South Texas students and ensuring educational opportunities for all.

Generous gala sponsors included ConocoPhillips, H-E-B, Faykus Foundation, Chevron, Nikki and Benny Agosto, Brentwood Baptist Church, Enterprise Mobility, Wells Fargo Foundation, Arca Continental Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages, Brittany and John Gilmore, IV, Texas Southern University – Aviation Department, United Airlines, Whataburger, ADSI/Renee’ Logans, Amazon, Baker Botts LLP, Armstrong, Drs. Bibb and Payne and family, Cadence Bank, CenterPoint Energy, Comcast, Ellis and Webber families, Frenchy’s, Jennifer Sutton, Jackson Walker LLP, KPRC 2, Lone Star College Systems, Marathon Oil Company, Motiva, Right Time Solutions, LLC, Shell USA, Inc., Southwest Airlines, The Astros Foundation, The Kroger Company, The Williams Companies, Inc., TRISTAR, Walton Family Foundation, Rice University, and Uncle Funky’s daughter.

View more fabulous pictures here: https://capturedbyrts.pixieset.com/uncf2024righttimeevent/