Columbia’s Annual Fund Campaign and Equal Opportunity Day Dinner to Honor Community Leaders and Promote Unity

Exciting Event Awaits in Columbia

This Wednesday, November 6, the heart of Columbia will be buzzing with anticipation as the city prepares for the thrilling 57th annual Fund Campaign and Equal Opportunity Day Dinner, hosted by the Columbia Urban League. Taking center stage as the keynote speaker is none other than former Governor David Beasley, a man whose legacy in South Carolina is both impactful and inspiring.

Remembering Governor Beasley’s Bold Leadership

For those who might need a reminder, David Beasley served as South Carolina’s governor from 1995 to 1999, a time that included his historic push to have the Confederate flag removed from the State House dome. This brave move not only helped reshape conversations about race and representation in the state but also earned him the esteemed John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award. It’s no surprise that his insights and experiences will add tremendous value to an evening dedicated to promoting unity and understanding.

A Focus on Civility and Inclusion

This year, the Columbia Urban League has chosen the important theme of “Civility and Inclusion: In the Community and Workplace.” James T. McLawhorn Jr., the president and CEO of the League, emphasizes that our society is facing challenges with divisiveness, and if left unchecked, it could harm our quality of life and future prospects. His message sets the tone for a night of meaningful discussions and connections.

Event Details

The evening kicks off at 6 p.m. with a reception at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, where attendees can mingle and reflect on the importance of community engagement. As the program proceeds, those in attendance will also get the chance to celebrate the achievements of several outstanding local leaders. There’s nothing quite like an event that honors people striving to make a difference!

Honoring Community Leaders

During the dinner, prestigious awards will be handed out, reflecting the dedication and hard work of exceptional individuals. Some of the honorees include:

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

These awards not only celebrate individual accomplishments but also inspire the community to engage in acts of service and promote positive change.

Your Invitation to Join

For those interested in joining this enlightening event, more details about the Annual Fund Campaign and Equal Opportunity Day Dinner can be found at the Columbia Urban League’s official website and social media channels. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Juanita Dean-Bates or Cynthia Baxter at (803) 799-8150.

Let’s Embrace Unity!

With a focus on civility, inclusion, and community service, the Columbia Urban League’s annual dinner promises to be not only a showcase of commendable achievements but also a heartfelt conversation about the future. So let’s come together to foster understanding and celebrate those making a difference right where we live.