Introduction to the Superintendents’ Commission Gala
One hundred students received scholarships from the Superintendents’ Commission for the Study of Demographics and Diversity in March during the Ron Edmonds Scholarship Award and Board Recognition Gala at the Tinley Park Convention Center.
The Partnership and Fundraising Efforts
In February, the Superintendents’ Commission, a group of 37 superintendents from Cook County and the collar counties, and the United Negro College Fund joined forces for the third year to raise more than $400,000 in scholarship funds for local students. The total included 11 full-ride scholarships to Tougaloo College, a historically Black college in Jackson, Mississippi.
The Gala Event
Dr. Donzell Lee, the president of Tougaloo attended the Superintendents’ Commission Scholarship Dinner in March to present the Tougaloo scholarships to local students. Tonya Francisco, co-anchor of WGN-TV’s Daytime Chicago, was the mistress of ceremony for the evening.
Celebrating the Scholars
Dr. Donzell Lee, president of Tougaloo College, congratulates Southland College Prep senior Janessa Ravazee, one of 11 students awarded a 2025 Superintendents’ Commission Scholarship, a full-ride scholarship to Tougaloo. (Photo Credit: Ven Sherrod).
Dr. Donzell Lee, president of Tougaloo College, and Dr. Blondean Y. Davis, Southland CEO and chair of Tougaloo’s Board of Trustees, celebrate with students awarded full-ride scholarships to the HBCU located in Jackson, Mississippi (Photo Credit: Ven Sherrod).
Dr. Donzell Lee, President of Tougaloo College, and WGN’s Francisco (Photo Credit: Ven Sherrod).
Dr. Donzell Lee congratulates Southland senior David Shaw, a 2025 Superintendents’ Commission Scholar (Photo Credit: Ven Sherrod).
About The Chicago Defender
The Chicago Defender is a multimedia news and information provider that offers marketing solutions, strategic partnerships, and custom events for the African American market. Our platform equips us to leverage audience influence to reach, connect, and impact the Black Community with culturally relevant content not often serviced by mainstream media.
Founded in 1905, The Chicago Defender will celebrate its 120th Anniversary on May 5, 2025. Nielson and Essence Survey 2014 recognized it nationally as the second most widely read and best African American Newspaper. In July 2019, the Chicago Defender transitioned from a printed newspaper into a digitally focused, high-traffic content platform dedicated to online editorials, premiere events, sponsored advertising, custom publishing, and archival merchandising. We distribute relevant and engaging news and information via multiple platforms daily.
Conclusion
The Superintendents’ Commission Gala was a successful event that awarded 100 students with scholarships, including 11 full-ride scholarships to Tougaloo College. The event was a celebration of the students’ achievements and a recognition of the importance of education in the African American community.
FAQs
Q: How many students received scholarships at the Superintendents’ Commission Gala?
A: 100 students received scholarships, including 11 full-ride scholarships to Tougaloo College.
Q: What is the purpose of the Superintendents’ Commission?
A: The Superintendents’ Commission is a group of 37 superintendents from Cook County and the collar counties that aims to promote education and diversity in the African American community.
Q: What is Tougaloo College?
A: Tougaloo College is a historically Black college located in Jackson, Mississippi.
Q: How can I learn more about the Superintendents’ Commission and the scholarships they offer?
A: You can visit the Chicago Defender website or contact the Superintendents’ Commission directly to learn more about their scholarships and programs.
