HBCU Triumph Gala 2025

Saturday, December 6,  at 7 p.m. | The Westin Hotel – RDU

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Celebrate with Shaw University

Legacy, Pride, and Philanthropy

The 2nd HBCU Triumph Gala is a Celebration of Legacy, Pride, and Philanthropy. It not only honors those who have advanced educational equity and opportunity, but it also highlights the enduring legacy of Shaw University, the first HBCU in North Carolina, and the collective triumphs of HBCUs nationwide. Together, we will reaffirm the transformative role of HBCUs in higher education while raising critical scholarship funds to empower the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers. 

This premier black-tie fundraising event will take place on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at The Westin Hotel–RDU, Raleigh, NC. The date is profoundly symbolic; on December 6, 1865, the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified, abolishing slavery. As Shaw University enters its 161st year, it is both powerful and inspiring to mark this historic moment by uplifting the legacy of HBCUs and celebrating leaders whose work exemplifies courage, resilience, and triumph. 

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Westin Hotel–RDU Directions

Sponsor the 2025 HBCU Triumph Gala

Fuel scholarships and programs through your sponsorship.

Together, we will reaffirm the transformative role of HBCUs in higher education while celebrating the courage, excellence, and resilience that define our story.

By aligning your brand with this high-profile gala, your organization will:
• Elevate visibility before a distinguished audience of business, civic, and community leaders.
• Demonstrate commitment to educational equity, diversity, and HBCU excellence.
• Celebrate HBCU graduates within your company, community, and customer base.
• Strengthen community ties while inspiring the next generation.

Your sponsorship will directly support scholarships for deserving students, empowering the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers. Together, we celebrate the transformative role of HBCUs in higher education and honor the courage, excellence, and resilience that define our story.

Tickets are non-refundable (sales close on 11/21/25)

For more information on tickets and sponsorship opportunities, contact Dianne Pledger, triumphgala@shawu.edu, or by phone,  919-546-8564

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2025 Triumphant Honorees

This black-tie affair honors outstanding leaders who have advanced educational opportunities, social action, civil rights, and philanthropy. The 2025 Triumphant Honorees include:

  • NC Senator Daniel T. Blue, Jr.

  • Former U.S. Representative Bob Etheridge

  • Former State Representative Rosa Gill

  • Marcus Bass

  • The Whittenburg Foundation / Dereck & Jacqueline Whittenburg

  • The Joseph Hiram Holt & Elwyn Gant Haywood Holt Family / Joseph H. Holt Jr. and Deborah Holt Noel

Honorees will receive recognition through distinguished awards such as the HBCU Distinguished Alumni Award, HBCU Triumph Legacy Award, HBCU Triumph Community Activism Award, and HBCU Triumph Magnum Opus Award.

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2025 Honorary Chairs

The 2025 HBCU Triumph Gala is led by an outstanding team of dedicated leaders committed to celebrating excellence and advancing Shaw University’s mission.

This year’s Honorary Chairs—Attorney Charles Francis, former State Representative Yvonne Lewis Holley, and Darrell Tennie, bring distinguished records of service, leadership, and advocacy to this signature event. Gala Chairs La’Tanta (LT) McCrimmon and Terrell Midgett provide dynamic guidance and vision, ensuring the evening reflects both the pride and purpose of the HBCU legacy.

Supported by a talented Gala Committee of community leaders, alumni, and friends, the team exemplifies unity and dedication in championing education, legacy, and philanthropy: Dr. Dorothy Browne, Angella Dunston, Chris Foye, Monika Johnson Hostler, Michael Leach, Tonya Gouch Mann, Tammy Martin, Erroll Reese, Tom, and Deb Smith.

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What to Expect

Exclusive Networking
Connect with business and community leaders, civic organizations, and Shaw University leadership in a dynamic and engaging atmosphere.

An Evening of Elegance
Experience a black-tie holiday affair featuring gourmet dining, live entertainment, inspiring awards, and a silent auction.

A Night to Remember
Enjoy timeless classics from Aretha Franklin, Billie Holiday, and Ella Fitzgerald, plus Broadway favorites performed by the incredible Candi “Sugafoot” Herbin.

Click here to purchase tickets, tables, & sponsorships!

Book Your Stay for the Shaw University HBCU Triumph Gala

The Westin Hotel-RDU

Make your hotel room reservation at The Westin Raleigh-Durham Airport and enjoy the convenience of staying just minutes from the event.

Event Dates:
📅 Saturday, December 6 – Sunday, December 7, 2025

Hotel Information:
🏨 The Westin Raleigh-Durham Airport: 3931 Macaw St, Raleigh, NC 27617
💲 Group Rate: $199.00 per night
⏳ Last Day to Book: Thursday, December 4, 2025

Reserve Today!
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