Shaw University UNCF Campaign Announces the 2025 Honorees for the Inaugural Durham UNCF Mayor’s Scholarship Ball on May 31

Raleigh, N.C. (May 21, 2025) – Shaw University will host the inaugural Durham UNCF Mayor’s Scholarship Ball on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at the Durham Convention Center. The black-tie event—co-hosted by Durham Mayor Leonardo Williams and Shaw University President Paulette R. Dillard, Ph.D.—will bring together community and business leaders for an evening of elegance and purpose to raise funds supporting scholarships for deserving students pursuing higher education.

The evening will begin with a 6 p.m. reception followed by a 7 p.m. program featuring dinner, awards, recognitions, live entertainment, and dancing. The event is part of Shaw University’s annual UNCF campaign serving Durham, Wake, and Sampson counties.

“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.”

Notable leaders serving as event co-chairs include Ray and Shannon Trapp, the Rev. Dr. Jonathan and Michelle Augustine, and Rep. Zack and Tracey Hawkins. UNCF ambassadors and planning committee members include the Rev. Dr. Michael A. Page, Angelique Stallings, Jasmine Smith, Kevin Price, Phyllis Coley, the Rev. Dr. Trish Harleston, Terrell Midgett, and Durham County Sheriff Clarence Birkhead.

The event will convene civic leaders, HBCU alumni, corporate partners, and education advocates in support of students at Shaw University and other historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).

Media Access and Press Opportunities

Credentialed media are invited to cover the event. Press check-in will begin at 5:30 p.m. near the main entrance of the Durham Convention Center, located at 301 W. Morgan St., Durham, NC 27701. Interview opportunities with Shaw University leadership, event co-hosts, and community leaders will be available before the start of the formal program. For press credentials contact Jamesia Harrison at jamesia.harrison@shawu.edu