Culture, Class, and Community: Inside the 2026 UNCF Los Angeles Masked Ball

Los Angeles played host to a night where elegance met unyielding purpose as the UNCF (United Negro College Fund) celebrated its 2026 Masked Ball at the Skirball Cultural Center. Bringing together over 450 corporate partners, educators, faith leaders, and community influencers, the signature gala raised a staggering $320,000 to fuel scholarships and programs designed to help students get to and through college.

​Hosted by the charismatic actress Dawnn Lewis and KTLA’s Melvin Robert, the evening was more than just a glamorous social gathering; it was a powerful reinforcement of UNCF’s 81-year commitment to strengthening historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and empowering the next generation of leaders.

Celebrating the Culture's Best and Brightest

The ballroom was buzzing with influential voices dedicated to progress. Distinguished guests included Anthony Anderson, Rocsi Diaz, Anderson .Paak, Demetria McKinney, and Torrei Hart. The political and community front was represented by LA County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell and State Assemblymember Isaac Bryan, among others.

​The heart of the evening was honoring leaders whose impact spans culture, business, healthcare, and philanthropy.

The 2026 honorees included:

• ​Anderson .Paak: Grammy Award-Winning Artist and Producer

• ​Tabitha and Chance Brown: Founders of Tab+Chance

• ​Valeisha Butterfield: Founder of SEED Media and Global State of Women

• ​Greg Dulan: Owner of Dulan’s on Crenshaw

• ​Michelle Gaskill-Hames: President of Kaiser Permanente Southern California & Hawaii

• ​Billy Mitchell: Jazz Musician and Producer

​Powerful Words on Education and Responsibility

​In heartfelt acceptance remarks, the honorees highlighted that education is a collective responsibility.

​Tabitha and Chance Brown, known for their authentic approach to life and business, shared a grounded message about purpose:

​"What we’ve learned is that even if you don’t hold a certain title, you still hold a position in this world. The work you do just by showing up—for children, for family, for your community—it matters."

​Valeisha Butterfield spoke passionately about the legacy of HBCUs and defying expectations:

​"I stand here as a proud third-generation daughter of HBCU graduates... The seed planted in you is purpose. UNCF and the HBCU community helped nurture that purpose... because none of us does it alone."

​A Call to Action for the Future

​UNCF President & CEO Dr. Michael Lomax underscored the urgency of sustained investment in higher education. With the organization raising another $250 million this year alone, the mission remains clear: financial barriers should never dictate a student’s potential.

​The night concluded with a high-energy after-party performance by Mario, but the message left with attendees was serious: to build, grow, and invest in our students. As the saying goes, "A mind is a terrible thing to waste, but a wonderful thing to invest in."®

​For more information about UNCF Los Angeles, visit uncf.org.