Welcome, Youth, Family, and Friends,

Tonight is a very special night. I am truly excited to be present for my first Youth Leadership Award Dinner. I have heard so many great things about previous events and I am elated that we are back in person!

In a few ways, this year’s program is slightly different than past events as we are recognizing the highest number of youth than ever before: nine exceptional young people for their academic and personal achievements, and awarding grant scholarships for higher education at this inspiring event. 

We are presenting our ninth annual John D. Nichols Impact Award to Jeff and Julie Diermeier, Co-Trustees of the Diermeier Family Foundation, in recognition of their strong, consistent leadership and positive impact. They have been committed to UCAN’s youth for many years, serving as members of our President’s Board and funding our critical programs such as the Diermeier Future Leaders Now Program. They have devoted valuable time to our youth and staff and we are honored to recognize their support. 

Tonight UCAN will launch the public phase of our Power of Potential Campaign, a multi-year effort to inspire transformational investment in UCAN’s mission. With your friendship and support, we have raised more than $21 million over the past five years to help support youth. Through the generosity of our entire community, we are unlocking the power of potential in our youth. 

I invite you to mingle with the people at your table, make new friends, and enjoy the program. I urge you to take a moment tonight and find our honorees Jeffrey and Julie Diermeier, Ya’Natika Morgan, Chiagozie Onyewuchi, Isaiah Spears, Colby Boyd, Kyla Osborne, Deja Burell, Diamond Neal, Antwaun Wade Jr., Anthony Ezeanyim and congratulate them on their accomplishments. 

Thank you for being here to help us celebrate this special occasion. See you at the after party!

Christa Hamilton
President and CEO, UCAN