Community College of Philadelphia Foundation Hosts Annual Black & Gold Gala 

Originally released June 23, 2021 
Contact: 
Barry Johnson 
Email: btjohnson@ccp.edu 

Since 2018, the College Foundation has raised nearly $1 million to support student scholarships through its annual gala 

PHILADELPHIA – Community College of Philadelphia Foundation today hosted its annual Black & Gold Gala. As the College Foundation’s signature fundraising event, this year’s gala took place virtually and recognized the outstanding service of individuals and organizations in the City of Philadelphia that demonstrate involvement in community growth in the areas of education, business, social services and health. Rick Williams, anchor and reporter at 6ABC Action News, served as the event’s master of ceremonies. 

“This year’s Black & Gold Gala celebrated the outstanding contributions of our city’s leaders, and also the tenacity of our students during an unprecedented pandemic and countless instances of social injustice,” said College President Dr. Donald Guy Generals. “The College is extremely grateful for our generous donors, the gala committee, our board of trustees, the Foundation board of directors and Mayor Jim Kenney for their continued support. Due to the success of this year’s gala, we are able to continue our mission of empowering Philadelphia residents through education.” 

Since 2018, the gala has raised nearly $1 million to support student scholarships. Proceeds from the gala benefit student scholarships, including the 50th Anniversary PROMISE Scholarship, which was established by the College in 2015 to ensure that eligible Philadelphia high school students who want to go to college are able to do so with no out-of-pocket costs for tuition and fees.  

“With the support of our sponsors and the community at large, the College Foundation has been able to raise funds that empower our students and expand their opportunities,” said Dr. Mellissia Zanjani, vice president for Institutional Advancement and Community College of Philadelphia Foundation executive director. “Our students go off to transform their communities and help build a more vibrant Philadelphia. We are committed to ensuring that they are able to do so by receiving a first-class education, regardless of their ability to pay for it.” 

At this year’s gala, the College Foundation recognized the 2020 and 2021 honorees, which include: 

  • Lifetime Service Award: Daniel J. Hilferty, former president and CEO, Independence Health Group
  • Corporate Leadership Award: Comcast NBCUniversal
  • Community Hero Award: Sara Lomax-Reese, president, WURD Radio
  • Alumni Achievement Award: Tuesday Gordon, manager/buyer, Joan Shepp 

“The College Foundation is pleased to recognize this year’s honorees for their unconditional commitment to advancing positive change throughout the City of Philadelphia,” said Dr. Ellyn Jo Waller, First Lady of Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church and Community College of Philadelphia Foundation president. “Our honorees remind us that even during times of great uncertainty, we must continue to be in service to others. We often tell students to ‘lift as you climb,’ and this year’s honorees perfectly embody the motto.” 

Throughout the event, attendees heard from Dr. Generals, Mayor Kenney and College students benefiting from the funds raised from the gala. There was also entertainment including a cocktail demonstration, a virtual photo booth, music and magic. 

Individuals who were unable to attend the gala, but would still like to support the College and its students, can visit foundation.ccp.edu/donate. 

###