Royal Affair Charity Gala returns this Saturday, celebrating community impact and honoring two distinguished women
Press release from Finer Foundation of Florida and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Community leaders, supporters, and advocates will gather this Saturday for the Royal Affair Charity Gala, an elegant evening dedicated to advancing youth development, education, and community empowerment initiatives throughout Florida.
Hosted by the Finer Foundation of Florida, Incorporated, in partnership with Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, the Royal Affair Charity Gala brings together community partners and supporters for an evening of celebration, philanthropy, and impact.
Since its launch in 2020, the biannual Royal Affair Charity Gala has served as a signature fundraising event for the Foundation and Sorority. Through the generosity of sponsors, donors, and attendees, the event has reinvested nearly $50k back into the community, supporting initiatives that uplift youth, strengthen educational opportunities, and empower families throughout Florida.
A special highlight of this year’s gala will be the presentation of the Violette N. Anderson Award, recognizing exceptional women who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and advocacy, particularly in areas of social justice, civic matters, legal rights, and community empowerment. This award is named in honor of Violette N. Anderson, the first African American female attorney admitted to practice before the United States Supreme Court and the eighth National President of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. This year, the award will be presented to two remarkable leaders:
Mayor Jacquelyn Randall, Mayor of the City of Hawthorne, a healthcare professional, college professor, and public servant dedicated to improving access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunity for her community. During her tenure as mayor, she led the development of Hawthorne’s first strategic plan, expanded access to higher education through a Santa Fe College outpost, and helped advance major community development initiatives.
Rev. Dr. Marie Herring, Senior Pastor of DaySpring Missionary Baptist Church in Gainesville, who has served her congregation and community for nearly two decades. A respected educator, faith leader, and advocate, Dr. Herring has led numerous outreach initiatives supporting youth development, education, health awareness, and community healing across Alachua County.
In addition to honoring these distinguished leaders, the gala will feature the Royal Affair Silent Auction, offering guests the opportunity to bid on a variety of curated items and unique experiences while supporting programs that benefit youth, education, and community advancement.
“This event is about more than celebration — it’s about purpose,” said Alena Lawson Bennett, Executive Board Chair of the Finer Foundation of Florida. “The Royal Affair Charity Gala reflects our collective commitment to investing in the communities we serve. Every ticket purchased and every auction bid placed helps expand opportunities and create meaningful change.”
Supporters who are unable to attend the gala in person can still participate in the Royal Affair Silent Auction, which is currently live and open for bidding. To access bidding, visit https://givebutter.com/c/royal-affair-charity-gala-jipmiv/auction.
The Royal Affair Charity Gala will take place at the UF Hilton Conference Center on April 11th at 7 p.m. For questions or more information about the Charity Gala or to participate in the silent auction, email FinerFoundationFL@gmail.com.