Jacksonville, January 29, 2026
The 5th Annual United Negro College Fund Mayor’s Masked Ball is set for March 27, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency Riverfront in Jacksonville, Florida. This important fundraising event aims to support Edward Waters University, Florida’s first historically Black college. It highlights the value of education and aims to raise funds for scholarships and programs benefiting UNCF-member institutions. Local leaders and community members are invited to participate in this celebration of educational achievements and cultural heritage.
Jacksonville to Host 5th Annual UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball Supporting Edward Waters University
Jacksonville, Florida – The 5th Annual United Negro College Fund (UNCF) Mayor’s Masked Ball is scheduled for Friday, March 27, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at the Hyatt Regency Riverfront. This premier fundraising gala aims to support Edward Waters University, Florida’s first historically Black college and university (HBCU) and its first independent institution of higher education.
The event, showcasing local resilience and initiative, is set to attract a diverse audience including civic leaders, alumni, dignitaries, volunteers, and friends of both UNCF and Edward Waters University. Recognizing the importance of private philanthropy and community involvement, notable attendees will include Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan and A. Zachary Faison Jr., J.D., President and CEO of Edward Waters University. The gala promises to celebrate the vital role of education while raising awareness about the contributions of HBCUs.
Providing an exciting opportunity for community engagement, tickets and sponsorship opportunities can be accessed through the event website: uncf.org/jaxmmb. The proceeds will go directly to benefit students attending UNCF-member institutions, including Edward Waters University, supporting scholarships and programs that facilitate successful transitions to and through college.
A Purposeful Gala with Broad Community Support
The UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball is not only a local highlight but part of a nationwide initiative that unites community leaders, celebrities, and philanthropists to support students and HBCUs. Similar events in other cities such as Los Angeles, Norfolk, and New Orleans aim to raise funds and promote understanding of the vital role education plays in shaping better futures.
Importance of Edward Waters University
As Florida’s first HBCU, Edward Waters University serves as a beacon of educational opportunity for many students, especially those from underrepresented communities. Through programs supported by events like the Mayor’s Masked Ball, students gain access to vital resources that enable them to succeed academically and personally.
A Community Effort
This event exemplifies how local choice and leadership can foster impactful community events. Increased collaboration among local businesses, civic organizations, and educational institutions is a crucial element in enhancing resources for students and promoting educational success.
What’s in Store for Attendees
Attendees of the gala can expect an evening rich with educational insights and opportunities to engage with community leaders. The event will include a program that highlights achievements, scholarships, and the continuous importance of HBCUs in the educational landscape.
Key Features of the 5th Annual UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Date and Time | Friday, March 27, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. |
| Location | Hyatt Regency Riverfront, Jacksonville, Florida |
| Emcee | Action News Jax anchor Shay Simon |
| Notable Attendees | Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan and A. Zachary Faison Jr., J.D., President and CEO of Edward Waters University |
| Purpose | Support Edward Waters University and raise awareness about the importance of a college education and the contributions of HBCUs |
| Tickets and Sponsorships | Available through the event website: uncf.org/jaxmmb |
Concluding Remarks
The UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball represents a vital opportunity for Jacksonville’s residents to unite in support of education and cultural heritage through HBCUs. As this significant event approaches, community members are encouraged to engage, participate, and contribute to the future of local educational initiatives. By supporting such events, residents can foster a more vibrant and informed Jacksonville community.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball?
The UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball is a premier fundraising gala and major social event focusing on raising awareness of the need and benefits of a college education, the students UNCF serves, and the contributions of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), including Jacksonville’s very own Edward Waters University—Florida’s first HBCU and first independent institution of higher education.
When and where is the 5th Annual UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball taking place?
The event is scheduled for Friday, March 27, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at the Hyatt Regency Riverfront in Jacksonville, Florida.
How can I attend the event?
Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available through the event website: uncf.org/jaxmmb. Proceeds from the event will directly benefit students attending UNCF-member institutions, including Edward Waters University, supporting scholarships and programs that help students move to and through college successfully.
Who are the notable attendees expected at the gala?
Notable attendees include Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan and A. Zachary Faison Jr., J.D., President and CEO of Edward Waters University. The gala will also feature an evening of celebration, raising awareness about the importance of a college education and the contributions of HBCUs.
Are similar events taking place in other cities?
Yes, similar events are scheduled in other cities, including Los Angeles, Norfolk, and New Orleans, each aiming to raise funds and awareness for the mission of investing in better futures through education.
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Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
