The Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) raised nearly $4 million during its largest programs of the year.
TMCF’s signature conference, Leadership Institute, drew 500 students from 44 historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) around the country for an impactful event that refined skills and connected them to corporate partners for potential internships and job opportunities.
At the conclusion of Leadership Institute, the 39th Anniversary Gala celebrated changemakers who have made a difference for students and HBCUs throughout their lives. Award recipients and honorees include Latriece Watkins (Sam’s Club; CEO of the Year Award), Dr. Tomikia P. LeGrande (Prairie View A&M University; Educational Leadership Award) and Richard and Jim Berkman (Dr. N. Joyce Payne Founder’s Award).
“TMCF serves as that crucial bridge between talent and opportunity,” Dr. Harry L. Williams, president & CEO of TMCF, said. “Through scholarships, internships, leadership development and career placements, we are opening doors that would otherwise remain closed.”
The black-tie affair also included high-profile entertainment and a celebration of TMCF scholars who have excelled academically and professionally.
Larenz Tate returned this year to host the Anniversary Gala. Tate and Damon Frost, president & CEO of Walker & Company Brands, provided Leadership Institute students with Bevel products throughout the week so they could make a great impression with potential employers.
Entertainment for the gala included Grammy-winning vocalist Ledisi, who brought the house down. In addition to a Grammy win and nominations, Ledisi has garnered three Soul Train Music Awards, double-digit NAACP Image Award nominations, an NAACP Theatre Award and an NAACP nomination for breakthrough performance in a film. She is also currently starring in the Broadway musical “Wanted.”
The Alabama State University Theatre Troupe provided the night’s opening act and the Southern University and A&M College Gold’N Bluez Dance Team closed it out. In between, guests enjoyed a soloist performance by student Nikolayshia Jones (Hampton University), a spoken word performance by Ssanyu Lukoma (Miss Howard University), and testimonials from Jaida Bazemore (Tuskegee University) and Emanuel Craig (North Carolina Central University).
Toni Townes-Whitley brought greetings on behalf of the TMCF Board of Directors.
“Tonight, I challenge all of us to look around this room and understand what we are witnessing,” she said. “This is not simply a gala. This is an investment in moving our legacy forward. So let us celebrate tonight. And let us make sure that when these scholars leave this room, they know an entire community stands behind them.”
Dr. N. Joyce Payne, the founder of TMCF, was surprised with a moving video tribute to her vision and nearly 40 years of service to the HBCU community. After the video, Dr. Payne was escorted to the stage, given flowers and provided remarks.
“I started out in 1987 to change the world,” Dr. Payne said. “I decided if in fact this country was about the business of American exceptionalism, that African Americans needed to be in the forefront. Now, today, HBCUs are in the forefront. We have the evidence here tonight.”
She also reminded guests to remember the legacy of Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall.
“His life’s work fosters the belief that progress requires people willing to break down barriers, challenge the status quo and stand firmly for what is just and right for the common good,” she said.
Dr. Williams provided closing remarks, setting the stage for next year’s 40th Anniversary Gala.
“Next year, we’re going to where it all started: New York City,” he said. “To celebrate 40 years, we’re going to have a party in New York City and we want all of you to join us.”
