Virginia Union University Celebrates Nearly $300,000 Raised During the Ninth Annual Legacy Awards Gala
April 11, 2024
The esteemed Virginia Union University (VUU) recently hosted its annual Legacy Awards Gala, a splendid evening honoring achievements, leadership, and philanthropy within the university and Richmond community. The event, attended by more than 650 esteemed guests, raised $300,000.
The evening commenced with a warm welcome from Miss and Mister VUU, Raina Joy Haynes, and Larry Hackey, followed by inspiring words from Dr. Hakim J. Lucas, the university's CEO and President. The University Choir set a patriotic tone with powerful renditions of the Star-Spangled Banner and the Negro National Anthem, Lift Every Voice and Sing.
“Virginia Union University has the honor of hosting the largest African American gala in our city, Dr. Hakim J. Lucas, Virginia Union University CEO and President said. “Tonight, we celebrate the legacy of an institution that anchors our Richmond.”
Following Dr. Lucas’ opening remarks, Minister Bobbie Newell, Jr. delivered a heartfelt invocation, setting the stage for a night of celebration and reflection. SGA President Syiyanna Finch and VUU Board of Trustees Chairman Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson expressed greetings. Richardson shared his appreciation for the university's commitment to excellence and community impact. Jeff Burks of PepsiCo, the presenting sponsor, was acknowledged for their generous support.
“Virginia Union University is an amazing story of determination, we have come a long way,” Dr. Richardson said. “We are determined to make VUU one of the greatest institutions of this era in American history.”
“PepsiCo has partnered with VUU for over 30 years,” said Jeff Burks. “When Pepsi partners with universities like VUU, we are not just investing in the university, we are investing in the students and the local community.”
The program continued with a delightful dinner accompanied by the musical tunes from VUU's First Thursday Jazz Band. The University Choir's rendition of "Even Me" captivated the audience, showcasing the depth of talent at VUU.
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of prestigious awards recognizing outstanding individuals. The recipients included the First Thursday Group for the Beacon of Light award, The Honorable Mayor Levar Stoney of the City of Richmond for Community Leader of the Year, George K. Martin, Esq., of McGuire Woods for Corporate Leadership, and Marc H. Morial, President and CEO of the National Urban League, for Lifetime Achievement.
“This university has played a significant role in producing leaders in the state of Virginia and the Nation,” George K. Martin, Esq. said. “One of the things that is critical about HBCUs, especially Virginia Union University, is their commitment to nurturing students.”
Notably, Tawan Davis, Partner and CEO of The Steinbridge Group, was honored with the HBCU Impact award for his significant contributions to the university and the broader community. In February, Steinbridge announced $42 million for the development of underutilized assets at Virginia Union University as a part of a $100 million commitment to Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
In addition to what Davis already committed, he announced a $5.1 million commitment from their contribution to honor all those born, worked, and built Virginia Union University, and the Richmond Community Hospital.
Before the evening concluded, Michael Manigault, Vice President of Institutional Advancement, expressed his gratitude to various organizations, corporations, friends of VUU, and other contributors for their generous donations. These included a significant $100,000 contribution from McGuire Woods for the purpose of establishing an endowed scholarship in the name of George K. Martin, $100,000 from the First Thursday, a remarkable $5.1 million from the Steinbridge Group, among many others. Altogether, these contributions have culminated in a total of $16 million raised year to date.
The night culminated with Minister Kei'Shaun Hardy's closing prayer and the soulful sounds of Richmond's well-known Legacy Band.
The VUU Legacy Awards Gala was a resounding success, showcasing the university's dedication to excellence and community impact. Through celebrating achievements and recognizing generosity, VUU continues to foster a culture of excellence and service that positively impacts the lives of many.