A Night of Elegance and Empowerment: Inaugural Durham UNCF Mayor’s Scholarship Ball Unites Community for a Cause

The spirit of unity and purpose filled the air on Saturday, May 31, 2025, as over 400 guests gathered at the Durham Convention Center for the Inaugural Durham UNCF Mayor’s Scholarship Ball—a historic evening marking the return of the Durham UNCF Steering Committee’s signature fundraising efforts since 2018.

The black-tie event was co-hosted by Durham Mayor Leonardo Williams and Shaw University President Paulette R. Dillard, Ph.D., and served as a vibrant celebration of Black excellence, community leadership, and the transformative power of education. From the red-carpet reception to the lively entertainment and dancing, the evening was a joyful and moving testament to what’s possible when community and purpose align.

“This is more than just a gala—it’s a celebration of the transformative power of education,” said Mayor Williams. “We are investing in students who will shape the future of Durham and beyond.”

Attendees included HBCU alumni, corporate partners, civic leaders, elected officials, and education advocates, all rallying to raise scholarship funds for students at Shaw University and other historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). Notable event co-chairs included Ray and Shannon Trapp, the Rev. Dr. Jonathan and Michelle Augustine, and Rep. Zack and Tracey Hawkins.

Honorees of the evening included:

• Rob Elmore, General Manager, ABC11 WTVD – UNCF Legacy Award
• Dr. Dorothy C. Browne, Senior Research Scientist, Shaw University – UNCF Exemplary Leadership Award
• Abdul Sm Rasheed, Founder and Former CEO, NC Community Development Initiative – UNCF Community Impact Award
• Emily M. Dickens, J.D., Chief of Staff, SHRM – UNCF Advocacy and Social Responsibility Award
• Frankie J. Perry, Retired Senior Vice President, Wells Fargo – UNCF Legacy Mentorship and Philanthropic Empowerment Award
• Dr. Deondra Rose, Associate Professor, Duke University – UNCF Champion for HBCU Progress Award

The program featured dinner, awards, and unforgettable live entertainment, all underscored by a shared mission: to provide greater access to higher education through scholarship support. The Ball also served as a cornerstone of Shaw University’s annual UNCF Campaign, benefiting students across Durham, Wake, and Sampson counties.

The success of the evening reignited momentum around UNCF’s local impact and long-standing legacy.

As the evening concluded, the atmosphere remained charged with a renewed sense of commitment and shared pride, leaving many eagerly anticipating the continuation of this meaningful tradition in next year’s Ball.