Honoring the remarkable contributions of leaders in the Black business community with NBMBAA St. Louis.
November evenings in Hazelwood bring cold nights and hot affairs. Saturday, Nov. 23rd, was no different. Top executives, MBA holders, and enterprising visionaries gathered under the grand chandeliers of the Airport Hilton for an event that shimmered with both elegance and purpose. The National Black MBA Association-St. Louis chapter hosted its annual gala, and for anyone who values the power of education and enterprise, it was a night to remember.
Business owners from across the region exchanged hearty laughs, enlightening congratulatory speeches, and affirmations of gratitude. The evening wasn’t just a celebration of achievements; it was a testament to the enduring strength of the Greater St. Louis business community and beyond. The gala honored distinguished regional leaders in eight featured awards categories. Later in the evening, the chapter’s past presidents were honored with remarks from celebrated community members. Throughout the night, the promising youth members of the “Leaders of Tomorrow” program were spotlighted as they spoke about their educational goals and career choices and helped present the awards.
As an educator and lifelong advocate for ambition, I couldn’t help but marvel at the atmosphere—a melting pot of drive, intellect, and vision. For entrepreneurs in America, evenings like this serve as a compass, pointing to the heights one can reach when passion and education intersect.
The event kicked off with opening remarks from Melanie Johnson, the night’s host and KMOV News channel 4 anchor. Jackson honorably introduced attendees to the university freshmen and high school seniors currently participating in the chapter’s “Leaders of Tomorrow 2024” (LOT) cohort, a community youth engagement program that has been implemented in the region for more than three decades. LOT handed awards to the night’s honorees among whom were named to be Pillars of the St. Louis business community. Attendees received a dynamic keynote from Paula Fontana, a national chapter business consultant whose words electrified the room. She affirmed: “The Black community is stronger and more powerful because of the St. Louis chapter of the National Black MBA Association. You are stronger than you think, and more capable than you realize.” As she spoke, you could feel a collective nod of agreement ripple through the crowd—a recognition that her insights weren’t just motivational, but deeply resonant.
But the true stars of the evening were those recognized by the organization. The chapter’s past presidents were distinguished for their dedication to advancing the mission of empowering Black professionals in business. Their tireless efforts have not only elevated individual careers but also strengthened the fabric of the community itself.
LOT are not only students but scholarship recipients and young professionals who are already making their mark in commerce. It’s one thing to see promise in the next generation; it’s another to witness that promise being realized before your eyes.
What stood out to me most wasn’t just the awards or the speeches, but the people. The gala wasn’t just about individual successes; it was about community. For most nights like these reveal its heartbeat—a community rich in talent, determination, and unity.
Vice President of Finance, Michelle Perkins started her journey with the chapter after being recruited as co-chair of LOT in 2008, “I was so impressed with the access to people and situations that would not ordinarily happen. The amount of detail that goes into these programs for kids is unprecedented.” On planning for the Pillar awards, she noted honorees were instrumental to supporting chapter programs like LOT, “we thought about how we could add value to the gala. Some awardees were people and some were organizations. They’ve given something: money, time. Everyone has done something to contribute to these past 40 years.”
Specially honored in the evening was the very first chapter president, Ruth Teague-Rice. Of the event, Ms. Rice remarked, “It was a tremendous evening, well done and well thought out.” The focus of the event was centered on the impact that the St. Louis chapter has had on the community over the last 40 years, “the dedication that was demonstrated, the positive impact from not just leadership but so many individual members is making a big difference.” Ms. Rice, wearing a beautiful gold chiffon dress, danced with a table of friends and family after the award program concluded. “The celebration reflected the dedication and hard work that I’ve known the membership to have for over 40 years.”
Stories like these are the backbone of widespread entrepreneurial spirit—a spirit that, despite challenges, continues to flourish.
As I sat at my table, surrounded by former students, colleagues, and business leaders, I found myself reflecting on what makes evenings like this so vital. It’s not just the glitz or the glamor. It’s the reminder that preparing the next generation and the ambition of those currently endeavoring in business are inseparable partners.
To have an MBA is more than just three letters; it’s a mindset. It’s the ability to see opportunities where others see obstacles, to lead with vision and humility, and to measure success not just in profits but in impact. That mindset was on full display at the gala, embodied in the honorees, the attendees, and the stories shared.
As the evening drew to a close, the mood was anything but somber. If anything, it was charged with anticipation for what’s to come. The St. Louis business community isn’t just surviving—it’s thriving. And events like the National MBA Association gala serve as a beacon, illuminating the path for others to follow.
For those of us among the 150 attendees at the sold out event, it wasn’t just a night to celebrate—it was a call to action. To mentor the next generation. To innovate fearlessly. And to never stop striving for excellence.
Because in St. Louis, as cold as the November nights may be, the warmth of ambition and community will always prevail.
Celebrate leadership and legacy at the NBMBAA St. Louis Gala, honoring excellence in the Black business community with inspiring speeches and awards.
Keywords: NBMBAA St. Louis, Leadership, Legacy, Excellence, Business community
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