A True Celebration of 100 Years: Akron Urban League Centennial Gala

June 11, 2026

The Akron Urban League’s Centennial Gala was an unforgettable evening honoring a century of service, impact, and community empowerment. As we celebrated 100 years of changing lives and strengthening communities, guests gathered for a night that reflected the rich legacy and bright future of our organization.

a Smiling Woman in a Royal Blue Dress Posing with a Smiling Man in a Burgundy Glitter Suit at an Event.

The evening was elevated by the grace, warmth, and energy of our host, Kathleen Bradley-Redd, whose presence helped create an atmosphere of celebration and reflection. Guests were also treated to a remarkable performance by Kofi B, whose musical talent brought inspiration, elegance, and excitement to the occasion.

Throughout the evening, attendees celebrated the Akron Urban League’s enduring commitment to advancing economic empowerment, education, workforce development, entrepreneurship, health equity, and social justice. The gala served as both a reflection on the accomplishments of the past century and a renewed commitment to the work that lies ahead.

Community leaders, supporters, sponsors, partners, and friends came together to honor the countless individuals whose dedication has helped shape the Akron Urban League’s legacy. The event highlighted the power of collective action and the impact that can be achieved when a community unites around a shared mission.

Male Musician in a Maroon Glitter Suit Plays a Red Nord Keyboard on Stage, with a Drummer and Saxophonist in the Background and Red Banners Behind.
Group of Seven Adults in Formal Attire Posing and Smiling at a Gala Event, with Red Lighting in the Background.
Group of Six Adults at a Formal Dinner, Seated Around a Round Table with Candles and Red Decor, Smiling for the Camera at a Banquet Venue Cream Walls.
Five Women in Formal Dresses Posing Together at a Charity Event, in Front of a Pink Heart Backdrop.
Smiling Couple at a Formal Dinner; Woman in a Blue Dress Points to the Man Beside Her.
Group of About 15 People in Formal and Semi-formal Attire Posing Together for a Photo at a Formal Event, Standing on a Carpet with a Dark Branded Backdrop Behind Them.
Smiling Couple Posing for a Photo at a Formal Event; Man in Tuxedo with Bow Tie and Sunglasses, Woman in a Black Strapless Dress with White Trim and Long Earrings, Red Ambient Lighting Behind Them.
Group of Five Adults Posing Together at a Party, Smiling, Under Red Ambient Lighting. (informative)
Four Professionally Dressed Adults Smiling for a Group Photo at an Indoor Event, with a Blue Backdrop Reading 'welcome'.
Two Women in Off-shoulder Black Dresses Pose and Smile at a Formal Event, with a Blue Backdrop in the Background.

As we commemorate this historic milestone, we extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who has supported the Akron Urban League throughout the past 100 years. Your commitment has helped create opportunities, transform lives, and strengthen our community for generations.

The Centennial Gala was more than a celebration—it was a testament to a century of progress, resilience, and hope. Together, we honor our history, celebrate our present, and look forward to the next 100 years of empowering communities and changing lives.

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Woman and three children gathered around a table, focused on an activity with a white box.