SOUTHERN SOUL SCHOLARSHIP BRUNCH
Inaugural Brunch - April 5, 2025
The DFW Tuskegee Alumni Club hosted its Inaugural Southern Soul Scholarship Brunch on Saturday, April 5, 2025, bringing together alumni, community members, and supporters for a meaningful cause. This special event combined delicious southern cuisine with live entertainment while raising an impressive $21,000 in essential funds for scholarships that will support the next generation of Tuskegee students.
We're delighted to share highlights from this memorable occasion, recognize our generous sponsors, and celebrate the impact we've made together. The overwhelming success of this inaugural event ensures it will become an annual tradition in our community's calendar.
Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this event a resounding success. Your support continues to uphold the legacy of Tuskegee University and creates pathways for future leaders.
Distinguished Keynote Speaker
We were honored to have Dr. Mark Brown, 10th President and CEO of Tuskegee University as our Keynote Speaker. The significance of having Dr. Brown, the first alumnus to serve as President, deliver the keynote address at our inaugural brunch on Booker T. Washington's birthday resonated profoundly with all alumni in attendance.
Dr. Brown's keynote address educated, entertained, and inspired all who were in attendance.
Special Guests Tuskegee Airmen, Inc.
The brunch theme, "Wings of Legacy: Celebrating Tuskegee's Aviation Future," honored the new Aviation Degree Program while paying tribute to the Tuskegee Airmen. We welcomed Mr. Al Henderson, President of the Claude R. Platte DFW Chapter of Tuskegee Airmen, Inc., who delivered greetings on behalf of Airmen Inc., and Ms. Barbara Hogues, daughter of Airman Homer Hogues. Their presence linked Tuskegee's aviation history with its future in aerospace education.
The Venue
The Inaugural Southern Soul Scholarship Brunch was held at the American Airlines CR Smith Aviation Museum in Fort Worth, Texas, complementing our "Wings of Legacy" theme. Attendees enjoyed programming against the backdrop of a vintage 1930's DC-3 aircraft, celebrating Tuskegee's aviation heritage. This setting provided inspiration as speeches and entertainment unfolded beneath the wings of aviation history.
Musical Performance
The event was graced by the exceptional talents of Session 07, a quintet of gifted young musicians from the Booker T. Washington High School for Visual and Performing Arts. These rising stars captivated attendees with their polished performance, infusing the celebration with vibrant energy. Their sophisticated blend of smooth jazz arrangements and soulful vocal performances created the perfect ambiance for this celebration.
Spoken Word Dedication
Spoken Word Dedication
The event featured a spoken word dedication delivered by two fifths of the poetry troupe Loc'd and Loaded, but the performance was nothing short of a perfect 10. Their tribute wove together powerful imagery celebrating Tuskegee's legacy, aviation history, the enduring importance of HBCUs, and the pursuit of excellence. The moving performance resonated deeply with attendees, culminating in a standing ovation.
Southern Soul Brunch
Capturing the Moments
Spoken Word Dedication
Guests were treated to a memorable Southern feast crafted by Chef Jason of Chef's Knife Catering.
The impressive menu featured perfectly fried chicken, cinnamon waffles, creamy shrimp and gouda grits, skillet potatoes, French toast casserole and more. Attendees enjoyed southern peach tea, tangy lemonade, or mimosas, with a warm, flavorful peach cobbler or red velvet cake concluding the meal—embodying the charm and comfort of Southern hospitality.
Capturing the Moments
Capturing the Moments
Capturing the Moments
Throughout the event, Epic Photography worked magic behind the lens, ensuring every smile, toast, and memorable interaction was documented. Owner, Rojae Charity, moved seamlessly through the gathering, capturing both candid moments and artfully composed shots that tell the complete story of the day.
With an exceptional eye for detail, Rojae documented everything from Chef Jason's Southern feast to the delight on guests' faces as they enjoyed the program.
