VALDOSTA — The National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), Valdosta-Lowndes Metro Section, will host its 12th Annual Bethune Leadership Recognition Banquet on Saturday, November 7. The annual event, which honors women leaders across the community, will take place at Valdosta State University’s Student Union Ballroom.
The banquet program is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m., following a cocktail reception that starts at 5 p.m. Attendees are asked to observe black tie attire for the formal recognition evening. The NCNW’s Valdosta-Lowndes Metro Section states the banquet is one of the organization’s "signature celebrations of leadership" and aims to highlight the contributions of women in Valdosta and Lowndes County.
This year’s event is set to recognize deserving high school girls, collegiate women, and community women. According to the NCNW Valdosta-Lowndes Metro Section, these individuals are honored for their achievements and service, which reflect the enduring legacy of Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, an educator and civil rights leader.
The featured keynote speaker for the evening will be Beverly E. Smith. Smith currently serves as the 26th National President of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. In addition to her role with the sorority, she is recognized nationally as an executive, entrepreneur, and civic leader. Her participation is expected to bring a significant national perspective to the local leadership recognition event.
Residents interested in attending or submitting nominations should be aware of important upcoming deadlines. The NCNW Valdosta-Lowndes Metro Section announced that both early bird ticket purchases and award nominations will conclude on September 30. After this date, all ticket prices for the banquet will increase.
Ticket pricing details released by the NCNW Valdosta-Lowndes Metro Section indicate that an individual ticket can be purchased for $50 through September 30. Following the deadline, the individual ticket price will increase to $60. For couples, a ticket is available for $90 until September 30, after which it will cost $110. Those wishing to secure a VIP table for eight can do so for $500 through September 30, with the price increasing to $600 thereafter.
The NCNW Valdosta-Lowndes Metro Section encourages community members to reserve their place at the banquet early to take advantage of the discounted rates and to ensure nominations for deserving women are submitted on time. The annual event provides an opportunity for the community to come together to acknowledge and celebrate the accomplishments of women and girls who exemplify leadership and service within Valdosta and the broader South Georgia region, continuing the spirit of Dr. Bethune's legacy.
