Filed under: Celebrity Style , Red Carpet
"These schools are significant to our communities," Spike Lee, who served as Master of Ceremonies, told Black Voices. "You can't discount them."
The gala was especially dear to Lee who comes from a lineage of Spelman women. "I'm a product of Spelman College," the director said, donning a navy blue velour Armani suit. "My grandmother and mother went to there."
Spelman alum and Access Hollywood Correspondent Shaun Robinson is proud of the college's empowering spirit and the students they produce. The event, she said, can give pupils a boost.
"Spelman teaches its students to take control and take the initiative to fulfill your dreams. We all know stories of students who have promising futures but don't have money for books or funds for tuition," said Robinson, who wore an off white floor length Nicole Miller gown. "There are many great students, but some don't have the means to continue. An event like this helps students continue on a path to becoming leaders."
Samuel L. Jackson, along with his wife, LaTanya Richardson Jackson, a Spelman graduate, hosted the event. The actor credits schools like Spelman and his alma mater, Morehouse College, for cultivating environments that promote community and personal growth.
"There are still schools that aren't accessible -- either too expensive or traditionally don't view us as viable candidates," said Jackson, who donned a black Armani tux. "HBCUs give students a sense of family and a sense of self worth that they can't get anywhere else."
Others in attendance were Star Jones and Anthony Anderson, who were auctioneers for the live auction. Alfre Woodard, Cicely Tyson, and Steve Harvey were also on hand. Mary J. Blige and Marian Wright Edelman were among the night's honorees.
Pulling in millions of dollars wasn't the only positive of the night, according to Spelman President Beverly Daniel Tatum. She noted the heightened visibility the Blue Gala gives to the school.
"An event like this is really powerful because it raises awareness to Spelman's mission," she said. "To have so many people gathered here tonight, to say the scholarship needs of your students are important and we're here to make a difference, is amazing."