HOUSTON – In an evening marked by elegance, empowerment, and community spirit, the Houston Association of Black Journalists (HABJ) hosted its Annual Scholarship and Fundraiser Gala at the historic Eldorado Ballroom in Third Ward, achieving a remarkable fundraising milestone of over $50,000 for college students.
The gala, which adopted a unique ‘Sneaker Ball’ theme, saw guests merging style with comfort, donning their finest attire along with their most stylish sneakers. This creative twist added a sense of joy and relaxation to the event, making it a truly memorable night. The evening was emceed by Alexis “Fly” Jones, reality TV star of OWN’s “Ready to Love,” and Erica Simon, 10 p.m. anchor of ABC13. Jones and Simon are also both HABJ board members.
Empowering the Next Generation
HEB was title sponsor of the event, providing 12 students from across the Houston area with scholarships to help fund their educational endeavors.
James Harris, HEB’s Director, Diversity & Inclusion and Supplier Diversity, and nearly 20 more representatives from the company were in attendance, witnessing the impact their sponsorship dollars have on the youth.
HABJ wanted to cast the net wide, reaching out to colleges across the Houston area to bring more students, who may not have even known HABJ was an available resource for development and mentorship. Students were selected from Alvin Community College, University of Houston, Texas Southern University, Houston Community College, Lamar University, North American University, Lee College and College of Biblical Studies.
Political and Media Luminaries Gather in Support
The event was not only a fundraiser but also a convergence of Houston’s media and political heavyweights. Among the notable attendees was Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, who was honored as his term nears its end. In a touching tribute, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee presented Mayor Turner with a proclamation, acknowledging his contributions to the city of Houston. Similar honors were extended to NABJ President Ken Lemon and HABJ President Nakia Cooper, highlighting their roles in promoting journalistic excellence and diversity in Black media.
“To be at such a historic place like the Eldorado Ballroom for a night honoring the best and brightest in this city was awe-inspiring,” Cooper said. “The unity and excitement were palpable, and it felt like a true breaking down of barriers. We’re excited about the impact HABJ will continue to make in the coming years.”
Adding to the electric ambiance was Chilly Bill Smith of KTSU 90.9 FM, who kept the crowd on its feet with his legendary DJ’ing skills.
The HABJ’s Annual Scholarship and Fundraiser Gala was more than just an event; it was a “soleful party with a purpose” proving the power of community, generosity, and the enduring spirit of Black excellence.
“The entire HABJ Board rolled up their sleeves and worked our collective buns off to pull this amazing event in record time,” Cooper said. “I want to especially thank Rebecca Briscoe, Vannessa Wade, Vicky Pink, Joy Sewing, Shavonne Herndon, Jennifer Moore Bridgett Holden and Ninfa Saavedra, in addition to Mr. Freddie Willis, our treasurer who is experiencing health issues at the moment. We extend our prayers for a speedy recovery.”
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