HOUSTON (September 26, 2017) — Wonderful things happen when a community works toward a common goal, something Houston knows well after Hurricane Harvey. In the face of this hardship, the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) is as determined as ever to continue its work of helping young people attend college.

Toward that end, UNCF is thrilled to announce that Houston lawyer and community leader Melanie Gray will serve as its Honorary Chair for the 29th Annual “A Mind is…” Gala held Nov. 18 at the Hilton Americas Hotel in Houston. Ms. Gray, a partner at Winston & Strawn LLP, was named by Benchmark Litigation as one of Houston’s seven top female attorneys. She is also well-known for her community service and contributions to education, young people, the arts, and the advancement of women. Last year, she was recognized as a “Houston Hero” by the Houston Chronicle.

“Hurricane Harvey has made this a difficult time for Houston. Now it is even more important to ensure that crucial support systems like the United Negro College Fund remain strong and vibrant,” Ms. Gray said. “I am so proud to serve as Honorary Chair for this year’s Houston Gala and to do all I can to help this organization do as much good as it can. Last year, UNCF scholarships helped scores of Houston students attend college, and that will be even more important now.”

Longtime supporters and this year’s Gala Chairs, Diana and Elijah White, will join more than 500 guests in recognizing the recipients of the UNCF Excellence in Education and John and Drucie Chase Young Builders awards. The worthy recipients will be honored for their commitment to quality education and their service to the community.

Promising to be a fun-filled night with a purpose, this signature fundraising event will continue providing scholarships to the next generation of leaders. The Gala will include a reception generously hosted by H-E-B and a live performance by The ZAPP Band. Attending the event will be distinguished representatives from the corporate, civic and education sectors, including UNCF President and CEO Dr. Michael L. Lomax. Last year’s gala raised more than $500,000 for scholarships and operational support for UNCF-member institutions in Texas: Huston-Tillotson University, Jarvis Christian College, Texas College, and Wiley College.

Major sponsors of the Gala include H-E-B, Brentwood Baptist Church, Sysco Foods, Macy’s, Windsor Village United Methodist Church Family, and Melanie Gray & Mark Wawro.

For sponsorship information and individual tickets, please call 713.942-UNCF or visit www.uncf.org/houstongala.