Columbia Gears Up for 57th Annual Fund Campaign and Equal Opportunity Day Dinner Featuring Former Governor David Beasley

Columbia Prepares for a Night of Inspiration and Recognition

Columbia is buzzing with excitement as preparations ramp up for the Columbia Urban League’s 57th Annual Fund Campaign and Equal Opportunity Day Dinner, scheduled for Wednesday, November 6. This year’s event promises to be a remarkable evening, complete with a keynote speech from none other than Former Governor David Beasley.

A Leader in Change

David Beasley, who held the governor’s office from 1995 to 1999, is known not only for his political career but also for his courageous stance on social issues. He was the first South Carolina governor to advocate for the removal of the Confederate flag from the State House dome, an act that earned him the prestigious John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award. Beasley has also made significant contributions on a global scale, serving as the executive director of the United Nations World Food Programme during a time when it received the Nobel Peace Prize under his leadership.

The Dinner Details

Festivities will kick off at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center with a reception starting at 6 p.m.. The theme of this year’s program is “Civility and Inclusion: In the Community and Workplace”. James T. McLawhorn Jr., president and CEO of the Columbia Urban League, shared that this theme was carefully chosen in light of today’s increasingly divisive climate. He emphasized that “divisiveness, if unchecked, will impede our quality of life and may negatively impact our future.” This makes the evening all the more significant, as community leaders come together to embrace unity and foster inclusion.

Acknowledging Community Leaders

In addition to Beasley’s inspiring keynote address, the evening will spotlight some truly remarkable individuals who have made a difference in the community. The Columbia Urban League will honor several dedicated leaders with awards:

• Virgil C. Summers Corporate Citizen Award presented by Dominion Energy
• President’s Award to Karen Jenkins, president and CEO of KRJ Consulting
• Whitney M. Young Jr. Award to I.S. Leevy Johnson, an esteemed attorney
• Stephen G. Morrison/Nelson Mullins Social Justice Award to Lila Anna Sauls, regional leader from Homeless No More
• Ethel M. Bolden Community Service Award recognizing Sara Fawcett, president and CEO of United Way of the Midlands
• Anthony and Alice Hurley Award to Willis Langley III from Langley 3/McDonald’s

Join the Celebration

This annual gathering not only celebrates the contributions of local leaders but also serves as a reminder of the importance of community engagement and collaboration. For those interested in attending, there are plenty of ways to stay informed. Additional information about the Annual Fund Campaign and Equal Opportunity Day Dinner can be found by visiting the Columbia Urban League’s website or contacting either Juanita Dean-Bates or Cynthia Baxter at (803) 799-8150.

Final Thoughts

The night of November 6 promises to be filled with inspiration and community spirit. As Columbia looks forward to this significant event, it invites everyone to take part in the conversation around civility and inclusion—values that are more essential than ever in today’s world.