(Talladega, AL) Talladega College President Dr. Billy C. Hawkins will introduce U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris at the UNCF's 77th Virtual National "A Mind is..." Gala on Thursday, March 4, 2021, at 7 p.m. This is the first time ever that a Talladega College president has been selected to introduce a vice president of the United States.
Vice President Kamala Harris will receive UNCF’s Frederick D. Patterson award for her outstanding contributions to HBCUs and inspiration to HBCU students. Also receiving the Patterson award, the organization's highest honor, are U.S. Rep. Alma Adams (D-NC), who will also be introduced by Dr. Hawkins, and UNCF Chairman of the Board William Stasior. Lowe's will receive UNCF’s President's Corporate Award (accepted by president and CEO Marvin Ellison).
The fundraiser will be hosted by acclaimed actor and producer Samuel L. Jackson. Highlights will include special performances by Stephanie Mills and Chaka Khan.
This year's National UNCF “A Mind Is…” Gala President's Circle sponsors are Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Lowe's and Amazon. The Gala will include dignitaries, civic leaders, foundations, corporations and HBCU alumni and others uniting to raise funds to benefit deserving students across the United States who lack the financial support needed to finance a college education.
The evening will be hosted by Honorary National Gala Chair Washington, DC, Mayor Muriel Bowser, and event co-chairs are William Stasior and UNCF President and CEO Dr. Michael L. Lomax,
Dr. Hawkins serves as chair of the 37 presidents of member institutions for the UNCF Board of Directors.
About Talladega College
Talladega College, Alabama’s first private historically black college, is consistently ranked among the best southeastern colleges and top HBCUs in the nation. It was founded in 1867 by two former slaves, William Savery and Thomas Tarrant, and is the home of the renowned Hale Woodruff Amistad Murals.
