Poet Maya Angelou is returning to the Qcity to help raise money for the United Negro College Fund.
The seventh annual Maya Angelou Women Who Lead Luncheon will be held at noon, June 20, at the Westin Charlotte (601 S. College St.).
Angelou will honor four local women who’ve made significant achievements in their professions and community.
They are:
- Dr. Lillie Hibbler-Britt, associate vice president of investments, Wells Fargo Advisors / Wachovia Securities
- Jennifer Roberts, chairman of the Mecklenburg County Board of Commissioners
- Michelle Thomas, community affairs and citizenship manager of Microsoft Corp.
- Thereasea Clark Elder, whose career and advocacy in healthcare spanned more than 40 years, will receive the Maya Angelou/Elizabeth Ross Dargan Lifetime Achievement Award.
Another highlight will be the popular “HAT-i-tude” contest. Women — adorned in their favorite hats — will compete for prizes for the best and most unusual headpieces. More than half of the event’s attendees wore hats last year.
The luncheon will include a silent auction as well.
UNCF will present a $5,000 scholarship to Megan Lawrence, a graduating senior from West Charlotte High School who will be attending Bennett College in the fall.
Proceeds will benefit UNCF member institutions, including five in North Carolina: Bennett College, Johnson C. Smith University, Livingstone College, Shaw University and St. Augustine’s College.
Marilyn Richards, UNCF’s North Carolina director, said the college fund “has an enormous responsibility to assist and support historically black colleges, especially during this difficult time in our nation’s history. We’re so grateful for Dr. Angelou’s willingness to ensure students receive an education through her continued support of UNCF and this fantastic event.”
Tickets are $150 per person and may be purchased through the local UNCF office by calling 704-377-8625.
