RALEIGH, N.C. (June 1, 2025) – (Photos by Mathias Bishop) Shaw University brought together civic and business leaders from across the region on Saturday, May 31, for the first-ever Durham UNCF Mayor’s Scholarship Ball, held at the Durham Convention Center.
The elegant black-tie event was co-hosted by Durham Mayor Leonardo Williams and Shaw University President Paulette R. Dillard, Ph.D., and served as a major fundraiser supporting scholarships for students pursuing higher education.
The evening began with a reception at 6 p.m., followed by a formal program at 7 p.m. featuring dinner, live entertainment, student recognitions, and dancing. As part of Shaw University’s annual UNCF campaign, the event helped raise funds for students in Durham, Wake, and Sampson counties.
“This was more than just a gala—it was 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.”
Among the evening’s distinguished co-chairs were Ray and Shannon Trapp, Rev. Dr. Jonathan and Michelle Augustine, and Rep. Zack and Tracey Hawkins. The event’s planning committee and UNCF ambassadors included 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 event welcomed a diverse audience of HBCU alumni, corporate partners, community advocates, and education supporters, all united in a shared commitment to student success at Shaw University and other historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).
