Ninety Years of Purpose: NCNW Celebrates a Legacy of “Uncommon Height” in Washington, D.C.

NCNW Uncommon Height Honors

Celebrating 90 Years!

There is a unique energy that fills a room when decades of history, struggle, and triumph come together. That energy was felt at the Marriott Marquis in Washington, D.C., as the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) celebrated its 90th anniversary. It wasn’t just a gala; it was a tribute to a movement that started on December 5, 1935, when the legendary Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune first inspired a vision of collective power for Black women. Ninety years later, that vision is not just alive, it is thriving.

A Night of Stars and Substance

Hosted by the poised Linsey Davis, anchor for ABC News Live Prime, the evening was NCNW’s signature fundraising event. The atmosphere was elegant and purposeful, led by gala co-chairs Dr. Johnnetta Betsch Cole and Carla Harris. While the gowns and setting were stunning, the true focus remained on the “Core Four,” NCNW’s pillars of health, education, economic justice, and social justice.

The gala is fittingly named the Uncommon Height Awards, a tribute to the late Dr. Dorothy Irene Height. Dr. Height, the organization’s Chair and President Emerita, led NCNW for 40 years, becoming a towering figure in the fight for civil rights.

Congresswoman Maxine Waters and Bishop Vashti McKenzie owning the Red Carpet

Red Carpet moment with fierce, empowered leaders ready for the occasion

As NCNW President & CEO Shavon Arline-Bradley noted during the festivities: “The vision of our Founder, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, is undisputedly relevant now. Dr. Dorothy Irene Height, for whom the event is named, carried out the vision of Dr. Bethune and was dedicated to acknowledging and lifting others who have made a difference in our world… We are looking forward to a wonderful celebration that should not be missed.”

Honoring the Trailblazers

The heart of the evening was the presentation of awards to individuals who embody the courage and excellence the NCNW has championed for nearly a century.

Honoree	Award
Congresswoman Maxine Waters	Uncommon Height Crystal Star Award (Highest Honor)
Alexis M. Herman	Crystal Stair Award (Presented Posthumously)
Joy Reid, Tiffany Cross, Karen Finney, & Melissa Harris-Perry	Uncommon Journalist Awards
Dr. Valerie Daniels-Carter	Alexis M. Herman Public & Community Service Award
Lonnie G. Bunch III	Charles L. Franklin Associate Award
Alena McQuarter	Change Maker Honoree

The recognition of Congresswoman Maxine Waters with the Crystal Star Award brought the room to its feet, highlighting a career marked by “uncommon” persistence. Meanwhile, the collective honoring of journalists like Joy Reid and Tiffany Cross emphasized the importance of Black voices in media today. The evening also looked ahead with Alena McQuarter, the Change Maker Honoree, showing that the torch lit by Dr. Bethune is being passed into capable, young hands.

Looking ahead as the NCNW enters its tenth decade, the funds raised at the Marriott Marquis will go directly to grassroots programs that support our communities. From closing the wealth gap to ensuring healthcare equity, the work remains urgent. Ninety years ago, Mary McLeod Bethune said, “I leave you a thirst for education. I leave you a capacity to build.” At this year’s gala, it was clear that the building hasn’t stopped—it’s only reaching new, uncommon heights.

Rev. Shavon Arline-Bradley and Dr. Lois Keith with Joy Reid, Tiffany Cross and Karen Finney

Laverne Chatman, Bishop Leah Daughtry, Roslyn Brock, with guest ready for the Red Carpet

A Night of Glitz and Purpose: The Gatsby Showcase Foundation Honors Global and Local Trailblazers

Global n Impact

A Night of Glitz and Purpose: The Gatsby Showcase Foundation Honors Global and Local Trailblazers

If you were looking for the most exclusive, high-impact gathering in D.C. recently, you needed to be at the Organization of American States (OAS) building for the 5th Annual Gatsby Showcase Foundation Awards Ceremony. This was more than just a gala; it was a powerful convergence of diplomacy, celebrity, philanthropy, and grassroots excellence, all dedicated to a noble cause.

The moment guests arrived; they were swept into an atmosphere of elegance. The evening kicked off with a red carpet that sparkled with ambassadors, D.C.’s elite, and renowned entertainers. The pre-event reception was a vibe, featuring an open bar, delectable passed hors d’oeuvres, and the delightful, melodic sounds of steel pan music transporting everyone to a tropical state of mind.

The Foundation’s Heartfelt Mission

The true star of the evening, however, was the Gatsby Showcase Foundation’s mission: empowering historically marginalized groups to achieve economic independence. “The mission was born not as a business idea, but as a humanitarian mission”, said Laura AyukTakem Fote, Co-Founder of The Gatsby Showcase Foundation. “A commitment to dignity that begins with essentials.”

They do this through providing essential tools such as education, business development resources, access to quality healthcare, and a strong, supportive global network. The awards ceremony was a celebration of the individuals who embody this spirit of upliftment.

A Star-Studded Stage

Taking the helm as Mistress of Ceremony was none other than the iconic Vivica A. Fox, who brought her signature energy and commanding presence to the stage. With a knowing smile, she set the tone for the night.

“Look at this room!” Vivica A. Fox exclaimed, drawing applause. “Tonight is about giving flowers to those who don’t just talk the talk, but walk the walk. These honorees are proving every single day that economic independence is not a dream—it’s an achievable goal when we lift each other up. That’s what the Gatsby Foundation is all about: real action.”

The program was punctuated by a stunning performance from R&B crooner Kenny Lattimore, whose smooth vocals added a touch of timeless romance and operatic sophistication to the powerful proceedings.

Honoring the Difference Makers

The roster of honorees was nothing short of remarkable, blending influential D.C. figures with international advocates and cultural icons:

D.C. Mayor Muriel E. Bowser (Invited)
Reverend Al Sharpton, Civil and Human Rights Icon; Founder, National Action Network (NAN) (Invited)
Armstrong Williams, Media Mogul and Award-Winning Journalist
Johnny Gill, Award-Winning Singer/Songwriter/Producer
LaToya Foster, Director, DC Office of Cable Television, Film, Music and Entertainment (OCTFME); and, DC Film Commissioner
Paul J. Cohn, Entrepreneur and Iconic DC Restauranteur
Raymone K. Bain, “Keeper of the Famed,” Media Strategist and Public Relations Executive
H.E. Denis G. Antoine, Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Representing Grenada
Christine Francis, Philanthropist, and wife of the Grenadian Ambassador
Barrett LaRoda, International Entrepreneur and Entertainment Executive

The event made it crystal clear: the work of empowering communities is a global endeavor that requires commitment from every sector, from city hall to the UN, and from the local business owner to the international entrepreneur. In a final moment of reflection, Vivica A. Fox summed up the powerful spirit in the room: “What you’re doing, giving back to the communities, is just absolutely incredible”, said Vivica A. Fox, Acclaimed Actress and Producer. “Every great movement has a heartbeat, a leader whose vision, discipline, and purpose kept it (the foundation) alive and moving forward.”

The 5th annual awards ceremony was a resounding success, solidifying the Gatsby Showcase Foundation’s reputation as a pivotal force for change and leaving attendees feeling energized and connected, a true testament to the power of purposeful celebration.

WeModelUSA Fashion Show Ignites MGM National Harbor With Purpose, Power, and High Fashion

WeModelUSA Fashion Show Ignites MGM National Harbor With

Purpose, Power, and High Fashion

The MGM National Harbor was buzzing with energy as WeModelUSA turned a glamorous fashion night into a powerful call to action. The evening wasn’t just a fashion show; it was a full-fledged movement. WeModelUSA, a DMV-based model search company owned by Onyx Global Solutions, has never operated like a typical modeling brand.

Known for competing in high-profile, international fashion events, WeModelUSA offers the complete package: red carpet treatment, bright lights, cameras flashing, designers showcasing bold collections, and models commanding the runway. But beyond the spectacle, the night was rooted in something more meaningful fashion with a mission.

Fashion as a Platform for Social Change

This year’s Fashion and Awards Show shone a bright spotlight on empowerment and advocacy. While the runway dazzled with striking looks, the core message was clear: fashion can be used as a force for good. WeModelUSA continues to use its platform to raise awareness about human trafficking, a global crisis that disproportionately affects women and children. Through storytelling, visuals, and the presence of mission-aligned advocates, the event reminded guests that beauty is not just what we see; it’s what we stand for.

Founder Patricia Watts lives this philosophy every day. Through her leadership and work with Seeds of Faith, she is helping transform the lives of women in Ghana, many of whom labor in cassava, cocoa, and citrus fields. The organization focuses on economic empowerment, faith, and sustainable opportunity, offering women the tools and support they need to rewrite their futures. That same spirit of transformation echoed throughout the room.

Honoring Leaders Who Move the Community Forward

Central to the evening was the awards ceremony, recognizing honorees for their business acumen, leadership, and outstanding contributions to the community.

These were not just names on a program; they are entrepreneurs, advocates, and visionaries who are building businesses, creating jobs, mentoring, and opening doors for the next generation. Some were recognized for their innovative business ventures, others for their philanthropy, community organizing, or consistent service behind the scenes.

As each honoree took the stage, the message was unmistakable: success is not only measured by profit, but by impact. Their stories reflect resilience, courage, and a deep commitment to uplifting others, perfectly aligned with WeModelUSA’s mission of using fashion and influence as tools for social change.

A Distinguished Lineup of Guests

The night’s prestige was elevated by the presence of influential leaders like His Excellency Kassoum Coulibaly, and special guests including:

Mayor Cashenna Cross, whose public service and advocacy continue to uplift communities.
Dr. George C. Fraser, a nationally respected voice on Black business, networking, and economic empowerment.
Kyle Arrington, NFL Super Bowl Champion, served as Master of Ceremonies, bringing both charisma and heart to the stage.

Their presence underscored the significance of the night: this was where fashion, business, community, and purpose intersected.

A Movement, Not Just a Moment

From the fireside chat and red carpet to the final walk, the WeModelUSA Fashion & Awards Show at MGM National Harbor was more than an event; it was a statement. The models became walking canvases, reflecting not only style but strength and possibility. Through fashion, recognition, and advocacy, WeModelUSA reminded everyone in the room that real impact happens when creativity meets conviction. The awards honored those already doing the work. The runway inspired others to join them.

And as the lights dimmed and the cameras stopped flashing, one thing for sure, two things for certain: this wasn’t the end of something, it was the continuation of a movement that is just getting started. As each honoree took the stage, the message was unmistakable: success is not only measured by profit, but by impact. Their stories reflect resilience, courage, and a deep commitment to uplifting others, perfectly aligned with WeModelUSA’s mission of using fashion and influence as tools for social change.