Shaw University & Durham Mayor Host Inaugural UNCF Scholarship Ball May 31

Durham, NC – Shaw University will host the first-ever Durham UNCF Mayor’s Scholarship Ball on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at the Durham Convention Center, bringing together civic and business leaders for an evening of elegance and purpose. The black-tie event, co-hosted by Shaw University President Dr. Paulette R. Dillard and Durham Mayor Leonardo Williams, will raise vital scholarship funds for students pursuing higher education at Shaw and other HBCUs.

The evening begins with a 6:00 p.m. reception, followed by a 7:00 p.m. program featuring dinner, awards, recognitions, live entertainment, and dancing.

“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.”

The event is part of Shaw University’s annual UNCF fundraising campaign, which serves students in Durham, Wake, and Sampson counties.

Powerful Community Leaders Unite

A host of respected local leaders will serve as co-chairs for the event, including:

• Ray and Shannon Trapp

• The Rev. Dr. Jonathan and Michelle Augustine

• Rep. Zack and Tracey Hawkins

Planning committee members and UNCF ambassadors include:
Rev. Dr. Michael A. Page, Angelique Stallings, Jasmine Smith, Kevin Price, Phyllis Coley, Rev. Dr. Trish Harleston, Terrell Midgett, and Durham County Sheriff Clarence Birkhead.

The ball will gather HBCU alumni, education advocates, corporate partners, and civic leaders committed to advancing educational equity and access through scholarship support.

For more on Shaw University’s UNCF campaign and how to contribute, visit shawu.edu.

About UNCF

Founded in 1944, the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) is the nation’s largest and most effective minority education organization. It supports 37 HBCUs, including Shaw University, and provides scholarships to thousands of students each year. Through fundraising and advocacy, UNCF helps local students access higher education and succeed in college and beyond. Learn more at uncf.org.