FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Urban League Guild of Union County Trenton Chapter is proud to announce the unveiling of a commemorative billboard celebrating the 2025 Gentlemen’s Ball and the exceptional young men who make up this year’s class. The unveiling ceremony will take place at 5:00 p.m. on May 5 at the corner of Pennington Road and Olden Avenue in Ewing, where the billboard will proudly display the faces of this year’s honorees.
The Gentlemen’s Ball, now in its 42nd year, is a time-honored tradition that recognizes outstanding African-American and Latino high school seniors from Mercer County. Founded in 1983 by the late John Couch Sr., the program was born from his desire to uplift and shift the narrative surrounding young minority men. Frustrated by the lack of positive representation outside of athletics, Mr. Couch sought to spotlight those excelling academically, contributing to their communities, and preparing for successful futures.
To be selected, each young man must meet a minimum 2.7 GPA and demonstrate commitment through community service or part-time employment—representing the values of excellence, discipline, and leadership.
“The Gentlemen’s Ball is more than just an event—it’s a rite of passage,” said Janice Gilliard, President of the Trenton Chapter of the Urban League Guild of Union County. “This billboard serves as a public declaration of pride, accomplishment, and legacy for these incredible young men.”
The 13-week program behind the Ball includes training in public speaking, etiquette, personal presentation, and mentorship by distinguished alumni such as Kevin Baxter, Steve Cooke, and Palmer Richardson. Each year culminates in a formal black-tie celebration modeled after the Debutante Ball, where participants are introduced to society in grand fashion. From tuxedos with tails to a choreographed waltz, the evening showcases not only style but substance.
Over the past four decades, more than 900 young men have participated in the Gentlemen’s Ball. Alumni have gone on to become physicians, attorneys, professional athletes, investment bankers, elected officials, entrepreneurs, and members of the U.S. military and workforce.
This year’s Ball will be held on June 1, 2025, at The College of New Jersey’s Brower Student Center, where once again the community will gather to celebrate excellence in action.
The unveiling ceremony is open to the public, and community members are encouraged to attend, support, and applaud these future leaders.
For more information about the Gentlemen’s Ball or the billboard unveiling, please contact the Urban League Guild of Union County Trenton Chapter.
Email: urbanleague@uloucnj.org
Phone: 908-351-7200
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