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Penn’s Black Wharton Undergraduate Association recently hosted its annual gala, an exciting and elegant evening that recognized the work of the non-profit organization the U.S. Dream Academy. The black tie affair, held at the Inn at Penn, gave students the opportunity to connect with friends and enjoy great food and entertainment, all while learning about an amazing cause.

College sophomore Keishawn Johnson looks forward to the event every year. “The BWUA Gala has always been a hallmark of my short time at Penn…the award ceremony is always a joy to watch, as great and deserving groups are recognized for their hard work.”

The Gala, or Galvanizing Adolescents towards a Legacy of Achievement Award, is known for recognizing exceptional organizations, particularly those which are making strides to improve the lives of youth in Philadelphia. The U.S. Dream Academy, an after-school mentoring program which focuses on character-building, was an easy choice for the gala committee.

“We chose the U.S. Dream Academy because of their focus on not only at-risk students but also students whose parents [are] in prison,” explains event chairperson and college sophomore Kerubo Mokaya.  “Tonight will go down as one of my fondest memories of Penn.”

Participants were serenaded by jazz trio Southern Silk through dinner and dessert, followed by an address from keynote speaker Dr. Tukufu Zuberi and the presenting of the award.

Elegance, fun, and service were clearly the themes for the evening, as students engaged with the charity and with one another. Congratulations to the U.S. Dream Academy for their work, and to the gala committee for hosting such a successful event.