The Milwaukee Urban League (MUL) hosted its 32nd Annual Black & White Ball on June 10 at the BMO Harris Bradley Center, with the organization welcoming Dr. Eve M. Hall as the new President and CEO.

This year’s theme was “Changing of the Guard: Be the Change” to reflect the new leadership direction under Dr. Hall. The League’s annual ball has become one of the most prestigious events recognizing education and youth, economic empowerment and equity, and inclusion in the Greater Milwaukee area. It also serves as a venue for bringing together the area’s diverse community.

“I am honored to be at the helm of an organization with a long lasting history and rich legacy that has made a significant difference in the lives of Milwaukee African Americans,” said Dr. Hall, Milwaukee Urban League president and CEO.

More than a thousand guests attended the gala program, which was filled with personal and inspiring testimonies from local residents. The Milwaukee Urban League was founded 98 years ago and serves through a three-prong approach for empowering African Americans: Education and Youth, Economic Empowerment, and Equity and Inclusion.

The fundraiser also highlighted organizations that have partnered with MUL and the financial support from individuals and corporations.

Guests at the black-tie event also learned about what the organization has been doing to “Be the Change,” as MUL moves forward to 2019 with its centennial year journey. The African American nonprofit has been a stabilizing force in Milwaukee for over half of the city’s 171 year history.

The Honorary Ball Co-chairs for this year were Greg Marcus, Marcus Corporation and Ugo Nwagbarocha, Diamond Disc International, along with Ball Co-chairs Melissa Shneyder, U.S. Bank and Jocelyn Johnson, GE Healthcare.

The evening concluded with dancing to a concert from The Spinners. The legendary rhythm and blues group performed their classic Motown hits like “Working My Way Back To You Girl” and “Rubberband Man.”