Black Business News

Chesapeake NAACP Hosts Its 58th Freedom Fund Gala

The Chesapeake NAACP’s 58th Freedom Fund Gala on October 11 honored local leaders with the Legacy of First Light Award and celebrated the impactful role of Black churches and Pan-Hellenic organizations in community development.

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CHESAPEAKE

The Chesapeake NAACP hosted its Freedom Fund Black Tie Dinner Gala on October 11 at the Chesapeake Conference Center. This year’s keynote speaker was Dr. Roslyn M. Brock, National Chairman Emeritus, NAACP. Serving as the evening’s Mistress of Ceremonies was LaValette Lomax, Top Ladies of Distinction.

The Deep Creek High School Airforce JROTC led the Presentation of Colors and the Pledge

Among program highlights was the awarding by Chesapeake NAACP President Dr. Shirley Auguste of the 2025 Legacy of First Light Award to four persons for their leadership and achievements. They were the Honorable President Pro Tempore Senator L. Louise Lucas, House Speaker Don Scott, Judge Eileen Olds, and the late Honorable William E. Ward (Mrs. Rose Ward). In addition, the event recognized the profound role of Black churches and the Pan Hellenic (Divine Nine) in shaping leaders, uplifting communities, and advancing justice.

City Councilwoman Dr. Ella Ward brought greetings from the City. Other persons participating on the program included Dr. H. Patrick Cason, Bethany Baptist Church; Del. Cliff Hayes; Congressman Bobby Scott; Dr. Charles Carrington; and Dr. Fontaine Ferebee-Johns.

Performances were delivered by Stephanie Sanders, NSU Associate Director of Bands; and Tramaine Spruill, Chesapeake ACT-SO Gold Medalist.