Shaw University’s 2nd HBCU Triumph Gala to Celebrate Legacy, Pride, and Philanthropy

Raleigh, N.C. — Shaw University will host its 2nd Annual HBCU Triumph Gala on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at The Westin Hotel–RDU, celebrating a powerful tradition of legacy, pride, and philanthropy while raising critical scholarship funds to empower the next generation of HBCU leaders and innovators.

This premier black-tie fundraising event will honor those who have advanced educational equity, social action, and philanthropy, while reaffirming the enduring influence of Shaw University—the first HBCU in North Carolina—and the collective triumphs of HBCUs nationwide.

A Historic Date for a Historic Celebration

The Gala date—December 6—carries profound significance. On that day in 1865, the 13th Amendment was ratified, abolishing slavery in the United States. As Shaw University, the first HBCU in the South, marks 161 years of leadership and legacy, this milestone will be honored through a night dedicated to perseverance, courage, and collective triumph.

“This event isn’t just about celebrating the past—it’s about fueling the future,” organizer V. Dianne Pledger shared. “Every dollar raised strengthens Shaw’s mission to provide access, excellence, and opportunity for generations to come.”

What to Expect

Exclusive Networking

Guests will enjoy an elevated networking experience with business and community leaders, civic organizations, and Shaw University leadership in an atmosphere designed for meaningful connection and collaboration.

An Evening of Elegance

The black-tie holiday affair promises gourmet dining, live entertainment, and inspiring award presentations. Guests will also have the opportunity to participate in a silent auction supporting scholarships and student success initiatives at Shaw University.

A Night to Remember

Music lovers are in for a treat as Candi “Sugafoot” Herbin delivers unforgettable performances of timeless classics by Aretha Franklin, Billie Holiday, and Ella Fitzgerald, along with show-stopping Broadway favorites that capture the joy and resilience of the HBCU spirit.

Honorary Chairs Lead with Purpose

The 2025 HBCU Triumph Gala is guided by an extraordinary team of Honorary Chairs who embody leadership, advocacy, and community excellence:

• Attorney Charles Francis – community leader and founder, Francis Law Firm PLLC

• Former State Representative Yvonne Lewis Holley – champion for education and economic inclusion

• Darrell Tennie – civic leader and entrepreneur

Their steadfast commitment to public service and empowerment reflects Shaw University’s mission to educate and inspire through leadership and legacy.

Gala Leadership and Committee

Providing visionary direction for this year’s celebration are Gala Chairs La’Tanta (LT) McCrimmon and Terrell Midgett, who bring creativity, strategy, and heart to this signature event.

They are joined by a dynamic Gala Committee of community leaders, alumni, and friends:
Dr. Dorothy Browne, Angella Dunston, Chris Foye, Monika Johnson Hostler, Michael Leach, Tonya Gouch Mann, Tammy Martin, Erroll Reese, and Tom & Deb Smith.

Together, this dedicated team exemplifies unity and purpose, working to ensure the HBCU Triumph Gala shines as a beacon of service, celebration, and support for higher education.

Honoring Legacy Through Impact

The HBCU Triumph Gala stands as a celebration of Shaw University’s enduring impact and the broader HBCU community’s role in shaping leaders, advancing civil rights, and inspiring social change.

This year’s theme—“Legacy, Pride, and Philanthropy”—honors the triumphs of the past while preserving the heritage of HBCUs and investing in the next generation of scholars and change-makers, building a future rooted in empowerment, scholarship, and shared purpose.

The 2025 Triumphant Honorees will be featured in the next Spectacular Magazine spotlight.

Click here to purchase tickets, tables, & sponsorships!