Urban League to Celebrate 82 Years of Impact With "An Emerald Era: Legacy Revealed" Black Tie Masquerade Gala

By Isiah Hall , National Urban League
Published 04 AM EDT, Tue Sep 29, 2026
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The Urban League of Union County (Elizabeth, NJ) will celebrate 82 years of service and community impact at its 82nd Anniversary Gala, An Emerald Era: Legacy Revealed, on Friday, October 9, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn in Springfield, New Jersey.

Presented as an elegant Black Tie Masquerade Gala, the annual fundraiser will unite community leaders, corporate partners and supporters while raising critical funds for Urban League programs in housing, workforce development, reentry, youth development, health and wellness, violence prevention and community engagement.

 

The evening will recognize individuals and organizations whose leadership and service reflect the Urban League's mission.

2026 Honorees include:

  • Leslie Anderson — Ella S. Teal President's Award
  • Brielle Lewis — Whitney M. Young Jr. Young Professional Award
  • KOBO — Corporate Partner Award
  • Port Authority of New York and New Jersey — Corporate Partner Award
  • Dr. Bibi Taylor — Community Partner Award
  • Roy Maynard — Donna L. Alexander Urban League Award

Grammy-nominated R&B and soul artist Eric Roberson, a Rahway, New Jersey native, will headline the celebration with a special performance. Guests will also enjoy music from the Segdrick Marsh Band, with Cartayah Hawkins Reid serving as Master of Ceremonies, along with a silent auction benefiting Urban League programs.

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and Reworld are among the key sponsors supporting this year's celebration.

"For 82 years, the Urban League of Union County has empowered individuals and families through resources, advocacy, education and opportunities that help communities thrive," said Crystal Orr, President and CEO of the Urban League of Union County. "An Emerald Era: Legacy Revealed will honor that history while generating critical resources to continue this work for generations to come."

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