13th Annual Phenix City Mayor's Ball Raises More Than $230,000 for Scholarships

More than $230,000 was raised during the 13th Annual Phenix City Mayor's Ball on Saturday evening, June 27, bringing new support to student scholarships and nonprofit organizations serving the Phenix City community.

Held at the Columbus Convention & Trade Center, the annual black-tie event attracted community leaders, elected officials, business partners and residents from both sides of the Chattahoochee River for an evening celebrating education, philanthropy and community service.

This year's featured guest was actor, comedian and television host Anthony Anderson, whose appearance highlighted the event's commitment to inspiring educational achievement and civic engagement.

Founded by Phenix City Mayor Eddie Lowe and his wife, Deborah Lowe, a longtime educator, the Mayor's Ball was created after Deborah recognized the growing financial challenges facing students pursuing higher education. What began as a scholarship fundraiser has grown into one of the region's premier charitable events. Over the past 13 years, the Mayor's Ball has awarded more than $1.2 million in scholarships to Phenix City students.

Mayor Eddie Lowe thanked sponsors, volunteers and community supporters whose continued generosity has allowed the event to grow year after year.

"What started as a vision to help our students has become a community-wide investment in the future of Phenix City," Lowe said. "Every scholarship awarded and distributed represents hope and opportunity. We are grateful to everyone who believes in our young people and continues to support this mission."

Mayor's Ball Committee Chair Yolaunda M. Daniel said the evening's success reflects the community's commitment to investing in education and strengthening local organizations.

"The generosity demonstrated by our sponsors, donors and attendees is truly remarkable," Daniel said. "Raising more than $230,000 is a testament to what can happen when a community comes together with a shared purpose. These funds will help open doors for deserving students while providing valuable resources to nonprofits making a difference every day."

The evening also continued several longstanding traditions, including appearances by emcee Palmer Williams Jr. and local radio host Dave Arwood, both of whom have become staples of the annual celebration.

Now in its 13th year, the Phenix City Mayor's Ball has become one of the area's signature charitable events, demonstrating the city's ongoing commitment to expanding educational opportunities and supporting organizations that improve the quality of life throughout the community.