Photo Credits: Creative Visual Perspective.
An impressive gathering of supporters, civic leaders, and education champions joined the festivities when UNCF (United Negro College Fund) Chicago hosted the 26th Annual UNCF “A Mind Is…” Gala to support student scholarships and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) member schools. The evening, held at The Geraghty recently, was a celebration of community, legacy, and the enduring belief that education is the most powerful investment society can make in its future.
In addition to helping deserving students attend HBCUs, UNCF scholarships are open to students of all ethnicities and backgrounds and can support those attending educational institutions in Illinois and nationwide. In 2025, UNCF awarded $2.5M in scholarships in Illinois.
“Chicago really showed up for the “A Mind Is…” Gala, and the support means everything,” said Edward Briscoe, Chicago Area Development Director, UNCF. “What people don’t always realize is how directly this investment translates to a student’s life. A $5,000 scholarship can be the difference between a first-generation college student graduating or going home.”
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson attended the black-tie affair, underscoring the City’s commitment to expanding educational equity for Chicago students. The Mayor was joined by Cook County President Toni Preckwinkle, Alderman Lamont Robinson and a host of other dignitaries. Robinson, a proud graduate of Clark Atlanta University, an HBCU school, opened the fund-a-need paddle raise part of the program with a $10,000 donation, setting a generous tone for the evening’s giving.
Comedian and Master of Ceremonies Damon Williams brought energy and warmth to every moment of the program, while the Leo High School Choir, a Top 4 finalist on America’s Got Talent, delivered powerful performances that moved the audience to its feet.
2026 UNCF “A Mind Is…” Gala Awards were presented to active supporters of education as follows:
• Trailblazer Award: Dr. Pierre Johnson, MD, Obstetrics & Gynecology specialist and co-author of Pulse of Perseverance
• Community Transformation Award: Pastor John F. Hannah, Founder and Pastor of New Life Covenant Church (20,000+ members)
• Keeper of the Flame Award: Dr. Shaka Rawls, President and Principal of Leo High School
• Legacy Award: The Smith Family (Charles ‘70 and Rita ‘73, Tuskegee University)
Adding a distinctly Chicago flavor to the evening, urban historian Sherman “Dilla” Thomas anchored the celebrated “You Don’t Know Chi” segments, shining a spotlight on profound Chicagoans and their contributions to education and community. Among those recognized were Dr. Shaka Rawls, Larry Huggins, and Alderman Lamont Robinson.
The evening’s generosity reflects a broader truth: the work of UNCF is more important than ever. Since its founding in 1944, UNCF has contributed more than $6 billion to education, supporting over 550,000 graduates.
Those inspired by the “A Mind Is…” Gala can continue to make an impact by donating directly to UNCF Chicago at UNCF.
Every gift, at any level, goes directly toward changing a student’s life. Visit UNCF.org/Chicago.
ABOUT UNCF
UNCF (United Negro College Fund) is the nation’s largest and most effective minority education organization. Since 1944, UNCF has invested in students of all backgrounds and the strength of HBCUs, contributing more than $6 billion and supporting over 550,000 graduates. UNCF supports 37 member HBCUs and administers more than 400 scholarship programs at colleges and universities nationwide, awarding 10,000+ scholarships annually. For more information, visit uncf.org.
