On Saturday, Nov. 17, Houston’s finest looked on as the United Negro College Fund held its annual Reveillon Gala at the Hilton Americas. Celebrating a rich history of education, mentoring and achievement, the UNCF treated gala attendees to an awe inspiring evening. KPRC Local 2 anchors, Khambrel Marshall and Rachel McNeill, served as emcees for the awards ceremony. Merele Yarborough, the gala chair, presented the honorary chairs, Anita and Gerald Smith, Y.Ping Sun and David Leebron with gorgeous flower bouquets and a gift from Tiffany & Co. The evening continued with a delightful performance by the Houston Children’s Chorus.
Dr. Michael Lomax, president and CEO of the UNCF, was not able to attend the gala, but did send a heartfelt video message to the audience expressing his gratitude for their support. The award presentations followed with the John and Drucie Chase Young Builders award being presented to Michael Feinberg, co-founder, KIPP Academy. The Excellence in Education award was presented to Dr. John B. Coleman (posthumously) and accepted by State Representative Garnet Coleman. The Tree of Knowledge presentation was conducted by Pastor Ralph West and First Lady Sheretta West, Church Without Walls. The evening concluded with entertainment by the Temptations Review featuring Dennis Edwards and DJ Supastar.
