The 2nd Annual Shades of Black Ball Returns to Detroit This June: A Call to Illuminate and Uplift Black Children in Education

A powerful night of celebration and purpose, honoring Black brilliance and raising critical scholarship funds for Detroit youth.

DETROIT, June 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Sankofa Scholarship Collective will host its 2nd Annual Shades of Black Ball on Friday, June 20th, an evening dedicated to honoring Black brilliance and raising essential scholarship funds for Detroit youth. Taking place at the iconic Garden Theater from 6PM–11PM, the Ball is more than an event—it is a declaration of what's possible when we boldly center Black children, protect their futures, and invest in their dreams.

Following the success of its inaugural year, this year's Ball arrives at a pivotal moment. As national efforts to dismantle Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) gain traction, programs that support and uplift Black students face unprecedented threats. The Shades of Black Ball stands as both a joyful resistance and a critical fundraising engine.

With this year's bold theme, "Not Like Us," the Shades of Black Ball embraces the unique, unmatched brilliance of Black students—those whose potential too often goes unsupported in systems not designed for their success. This night serves as a joyful resistance and a critical fundraiser.

Since its founding by professor, activist, and education advocate Dr. Rema Reynolds Vassar, the Sankofa Scholarship Collective has awarded scholarships and provided direct financial support to students pursuing higher education—breaking down economic barriers and expanding access to opportunity. This year's Ball has already raised funding for 40 scholarships for students from middle school to grad school—and the support keeps growing.

"This Ball is our reminder and our resistance," says Dr. Rema. "In a time when support for Black children is being politically stripped away, we choose to gather in power, in purpose, and in joy. We are here to fund futures, light imaginations, and protect the brilliance that lives in our communities. The Shades of Black Ball isn't just needed, it's necessary."

Proceeds will support:

• A new summer leadership intensive for middle and high school students
• Scholarships for Detroit-area youth
• A sustainable fund to support Black students long-term

Guests can expect an unforgettable evening of dinner, dancing, and inspiration. The night will honor community leaders, highlight student success stories, and raise critical funds to expand the organization's reach across Metro Detroit schools.

Tickets, donations, and sponsorships available now at: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/2nd-annual-shades-of-black-ball-and-scholarship-fundraiser

To learn more or support the mission, visit https://www.cbceconference.info/

About The Sankofa Scholarship Collective

The Sankofa Scholarship Collective was founded by Dr. Rema Reynolds Vassar to address the financial barriers that prevent too many students from pursuing and completing higher education. Rooted in the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive, the organization provides scholarships, mentorship, and community support to help students succeed in college and beyond.

Media Contact: DCB CONSULTING | Dominique Barchus [[email protected]]

SOURCE Sankofa Scholarship Collective