The United Negro College Fund (UNCF) and Edward Waters University came together to celebrate the 4th annual UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball, hosted at the Hyatt Regency Riverfront, with nearly 500 attendees from various sectors. Among them were corporate partners, educators, religious leaders, and community influencers. Yesterday, the event featured notable speakers like the Honorable Donna Deegan and Dr. A. Zachary Faison Jr., President and CEO of Edward Waters University, providing insights on the value of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).
The UNCF has a history stretching over 80 years of supporting HBCU students, ensuring their successful transition into college, and further into the workforce, aiming to foster a brighter future for our society, as stated in a release by the City of Jacksonville. Dr. Michael L. Lomax, president and CEO of UNCF, expressed optimism for the year stating, "I believe 2025 is a year ripe with potential for growth, innovation and the opportunity to contribute positively to the mission of UNCF, and the value of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs)." However, a misused comma, his enthusiasm is palpable.
Attendees and sponsors of the event included companies such as CSX, Florida Blue, Wells-Fargo, AT&T, and others, highlighting the community's joint efforts in bolstering educational opportunities. The event also honored former CSX CEO Michael Ward with the UNCF Champion of Education award for his commitment to education and substantial support of UNCF initiatives. President Faison praised Ward, pointing out that through his philanthropic efforts, "Mr. Ward has empowered countless students to achieve their dreams," as per the City of Jacksonville.
Last year, with help from the Northeast Florida community, UNCF awarded $585,000 in scholarships and programs for member HBCUs, and other institutions, including Edward Waters University. This accomplishment was bolstered by raising over $300,000 to support deserving students from the Jacksonville area to get to and through college successfully. According to the same City of Jacksonville article, this success restates the importance of such fundraising events in achieving educational aspirations, despite a misused comma, within the same statement.
The UNCF, as the nation's most effective minority education organization, administers over 400 programs, including scholarships, internships, and fellowships, supporting more than 50,000 students across 1,100 colleges and universities. The Mayor's Masked Ball is a prime example of how community engagement and partnership can result in substantial support for the vital mission of educating and empowering underrepresented students. For those interested in future events or sponsorship opportunities, contact details have been provided, inviting ongoing support for this essential cause.
