SPRINGFIELD — After a five-year hiatus, the Urban League of Springfield’s signature fundraising event is back in person, bringing the community together for an evening of celebration, impact, and renewed energy. The Rise Up Anniversary Celebration taking place on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at the MassMutual Center, will mark the organization’s 112th anniversary with an elevated elegant experience designed to honor the changemakers who embody its mission.
The keynote speaker, Danielle R. Holley, is the twentieth president of Mount Holyoke College. She is a noted legal scholar and educator. Holley served as Dean of the School of Law at Howard University (2014 – 2023) prior to joining Mount Holyoke. She holds a B.A. from Yale University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Holley also previously served as a law clerk to Judge Carl E. Stewart on the U.S. Courts of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit.
The event will shine a spotlight on this year’s Community Builder Awardees, individuals who have risen through the Urban League’s programs and now lead efforts in healthcare, civic engagement, youth empowerment, and economic equity:
● Ashley Bogle, Health New England – Health and Wellness Hero
● LaMar Cook, Office of Governor Healey – Civic Engagement Champion
● Dr. Kiyota Garcia, Springfield Technical Community College – Youth Empowerment Leader
● Anthony Moore, Black Economic Council of Massachusetts (BECMA) – Wealth Access Advocate
● Jessica Collins, Public Health Institute of Western MA – Inclusion Luminary
● Dr. Frank Robinson – Lifetime of Impact Award
The evening will also include a special acknowledgment of former President and CEO, Henry M. Thomas, III, for his decades of service.
“This event is more than just a celebration—it’s a testament to the power of resilience and collective action,” said Yvette Frisby, President and CEO of the Urban League of Springfield. “We are thrilled to welcome our community back in person and celebrate those who have dedicated themselves to making Springfield stronger, more equitable, and more empowered.”
The celebration will feature live entertainment, a gourmet dinner, and an exclusive silent auction, offering guests the chance to bid on unique experiences and items while supporting the Urban League’s mission. Proceeds from the event will directly fund education, workforce development, and economic empowerment initiatives, furthering the organization’s long-standing commitment to fostering opportunity for Springfield residents.
Community and Corporate Support
The event, chaired by John H. Davis, has already drawn strong support from corporate and philanthropic partners, including:
● Community Builder Presenting Sponsor: The Irene E. & George A. Davis Foundation
● Leadership Luminary: Comcast
● Impact Partners: Westfield Bank, Springfield Technical Community College, Health New England
● Advocates of Change: PeoplesBank, Mount Holyoke College, Riverside Industries, Westfield State University
How to Get Involved
Sponsorship and silent auction donation opportunities remain available through March 14.
Tickets, tables, and volunteer opportunities are available now at https://givebutter.com/c/ulscelebration
For more information, visit ulspringfield.org or contact events@ulspringfield.org. ■