On Saturday, March 7, the InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown became something more than a venue. It became a gathering place for legacy. The 2026 Winston C. Doby Legacy Scholarship Gala brought together alumni, community leaders, honorees, and supporters for an evening that was equal parts celebration and commitment — a reminder of what this community has built and what it continues to fight for.
A Message That Moved the Room
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass delivered the keynote address, speaking candidly about leadership, accountability, and what it means to expand access to opportunity in a city as complex and consequential as Los Angeles. Her remarks struck a chord that lingered throughout the evening: that when community and institutions choose to work together, transformation is possible. It was exactly the kind of message this scholarship was built on.
Honoring Those Who Lead the Way
The gala recognized seven honorees whose careers, service, and lives reflect the best of what the Bruin community produces. Each represents a thread in a larger story — one of excellence, service, and an unwavering commitment to community.
| Tash Gray '97 |
Beverly Robinson Award for Excellence |
| Jordan Chiles '27 |
Florence Griffith Joyner Award |
| Mandla Kayise '87, M.U.R.P. '23 |
Arthur Ashe Community Service Award |
| Cheryl M. Lott, Esq. '01, J.D. '04 |
Tom Bradley Alumnus of the Year |
| Dr. Yolanda Gorman '78, M.B.A. '83, Ph.D. '93 |
Jackie Robinson Trailblazer Award |
| Dr. La Tanya Hines '90 |
Ralph Bunche Humanitarian Award |
| The Elegant Bruinettes |
Madie Scholarship Norman Award |
Why It Matters
The Winston C. Doby Legacy Scholarship is rooted in a conviction that a student's access to education should never be determined by their financial circumstances. Since Proposition 209, the UCLA Black Alumni Association has awarded more than $10 million in scholarships to more than 800 students. That did not happen on its own. It happened because of this community — alumni and supporters who continue to show up and give back year after year.
$10M+
Awarded to more than 800 students since Prop. 209
The gala is the engine that drives this work forward. Every table filled, every bid placed, every gift made is a direct investment in a student who has earned their place at UCLA and deserves every chance to succeed there.
The Work Is Not Finished
We are grateful for every person who attended, donated, and championed this cause. But we have not yet reached our fundraising goal — and that means there are still students waiting on us. If you were in that room on March 7, you know what is at stake. If you were not able to attend, this is your opportunity to be part of it.
Make Your Impact Today
Every contribution, regardless of size, goes directly to a student who has earned their place at UCLA and deserves every chance to succeed there. The Association's work has always been, and will continue to be, to strengthen the Bruin community.
Donate to the Doby Scholarship →
