Academy Award nominated filmmaker John Singleton and State Assemblymember Reginald Jones-Sawyer to be honored
The University of Southern California Black Alumni Association (USC BAA) will celebrate six prominent USC alumni during their 40th Anniversary and Scholarship Benefit on March 10 at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Marina Del Rey.
“The theme of our 40th year celebration, “Legacy 360,” celebrates past, present and future leadership and achievement of Black alumni at USC, laying a foundation for the narratives of our next 40 years,” said Michèle G. Turner, USC BAA Executive Director.
The annual scholarship benefit celebrates the works and accomplishments of Black Trojans who are making a difference in their field. Last year, BAA had their play “Dreaming of Harlem under a High Southern Sky,” and this year will be the first benefit dinner since 2011. The benefit seeks to raise funds for scholarships that will be given to USC Black students who need and/or seeking tuition grants. BAA scholars have had a graduation rate of 100% since 2008 for both undergraduate and graduate academic support.
Since 1976, this initiative has awarded over $6 million in financial support to about 2,600 students in need. This year the organization is honoring Academy Award nominated filmmaker John Singleton, he will receive the Legacy Award. Creator of Kwanzaa and activist Maulana Karenga will receive the Emé award for his historic work. Wilson Global Communications Founder and CEO Julia Wilson, California State Assemblymember Reginald Jones-Sawyer, Sr., Dr. Deara Okonkwo, Neftalie Williams will also be honored.
USC President C.L. Max Nikias will pay special tribute to Verna Dauterive for her works with the university and as co-founder of USC BAA. Additional speakers include Northrop Grumman and USC alumni couple Holly Robinson Peete and Rodney Peete.
For tickets or sponsorship information please contact USC BAA office at (213) 740-8342 or visit www.usc.edu/baa.
