Columbus Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta to Host 2026 Scholarship Gala, Building on $65,200 in Student Awards

Annual fundraising event, themed “A Royal Affair — Glitz & Glam Purple Reign,” set for Dec. 18 at Columbus Convention and Trade Center

An evening of elegance, entertainment and philanthropy will take center stage as the Columbus Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., in partnership with the Delta Life Development Foundation, prepares to host its 2026 Scholarship Gala, an annual celebration dedicated to investing in the educational futures of area students.

The gala, formerly known as the Delta Ball, will be held Friday, Dec. 18, from 6 to 11 p.m. at the Columbus Convention and Trade Center. This year's theme, “A Royal Affair — Glitz & Glam Purple Reign,” promises an evening of dinner, dancing and celebration, all in support of a mission that extends far beyond the ballroom.

The event serves as the chapter's largest annual fundraiser, generating financial support for scholarships awarded to deserving high school seniors throughout the Columbus area and surrounding communities.

That commitment to education has already produced significant results.

Through proceeds from the 2025 Scholarship Gala, additional fundraising initiatives and contributions from private donors, the Columbus Alumnae Chapter and the Delta Life Development Foundation awarded $65,200 in scholarships in 2026 to outstanding graduating high school seniors across their service area.

Scholarship recipients represented 16 high schools, including Central High School, Russell County High School and other public and private institutions throughout the region.

The students are pursuing higher education at a variety of colleges and universities, including historically Black colleges and universities, public institutions and private colleges. Their academic interests span numerous disciplines, including pre-law, political science, criminal justice, biology and psychology.

For the organizations, the scholarships represent more than financial assistance. They reflect a longstanding commitment to removing educational barriers, recognizing academic achievement and preparing the next generation of community leaders.

“This investment reflects our ongoing commitment to educational development and empowering the next generation of leaders. We are proud to support these exceptional students as they pursue higher education and make meaningful contributions to their communities,” Brenda C. Williams, chapter president at the time of the scholarship announcement, and LaRae D. Moore, foundation chair, said in a joint statement.

More Than a Gala: An Investment in the Future

While the Scholarship Gala has become one of the area's anticipated social events, its greater significance lies in the opportunities it creates for young people.

Each ticket purchased and every contribution received helps strengthen the organizations' ability to provide financial assistance to students whose academic ambitions may otherwise be limited by the rising costs of higher education.

The gala has sold out in previous years, reflecting strong community support for an event that combines an elegant social experience with a meaningful charitable purpose.

Organizers hope to build on that success in 2026, continuing a tradition of bringing together community leaders, supporters, businesses and residents who share a commitment to educational excellence.

Founded Jan. 13, 1913, at Howard University in Washington, D.C., Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. is a private, nonprofit organization dedicated to public service, with a particular emphasis on programs that support communities and promote educational development.

The Columbus Alumnae Chapter carries that mission forward through scholarship initiatives, community engagement and programs designed to address the needs of the people it serves.

Established in 2005, the Delta Life Development Foundation supports charitable public service programs and projects focused on community service, social action, educational development, and multicultural and international awareness.

Together, the organizations continue to demonstrate how collective generosity can translate into life-changing educational opportunities.

Tickets Now Available

Tickets for the 2026 Scholarship Gala are $100 per person and are available through members of the Columbus Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. or by emailing columbusalumnaechapter@gmail.com.

Community members are encouraged to secure tickets early, given the event's history of selling out.

For additional information or media interviews, contact Chapter President Pamela Allen at Presidentpda.CAcdst@gmail.com.

As preparations continue for this year's royal-themed celebration, organizers are reminding the community that the evening's true purpose is not simply the elegance of the occasion, but the lasting impact it will have on students pursuing their dreams.

Because when a community invests in education, it does more than award scholarships — it helps build futures, develop leaders and create opportunities for generations to come.