Photo Gallery: Black Excellence Gala

The Black Men's Initiative's inaugural gala offered attendees a glamorous opportunity for recognition and connection.

January 20, 2026

The event featured dinner, music and dancing, a strolling showcase by members of the National Pan-Hellenic Council, opportunities to network and more. (William Atkins/GW Today)

The George Washington University Black Men's Initiative hosted its first annual Black Excellence Gala on Jan. 18 in the University Student Center's Grand Ballroom. The event brought GW students together to celebrate the leadership, accomplishments, and joy of GW's Black community. 

Featuring dinner, music and dancing, a strolling showcase by members of the National Pan-Hellenic Council, opportunities to network and more, the inaugural gala offered attendees a glamorous opportunity for recognition and connection.

The evening was emceed by social media personalities Michael Kebede (known as MrGoopie) and Matt Hefner. GW Senior Photographer William Atkins captured photos from the evening.