2026 LEGACY GALA
2026 LEGACY GALA
The Inaugural Legacy Gala is coming on April 11, 2026, at the Boathouse. Join us for an elevated evening celebrating impact, leadership, and what’s next for our community. Stay tuned for ticket and partnership details.
This is our Legacy in motion.
About the Event
Join us for an elevated evening of purpose, connection, and celebration at the Inaugural Legacy Gala, hosted by the Columbus Urban League Young Professionals (CULYP).
The Inaugural Legacy Gala marks the beginning of a new chapter, honoring the foundation of leadership, service, and community impact that has shaped our organization, while intentionally investing in what’s next for young professionals and the communities we serve.
Experience a night that blends elegance, culture, and community. Featuring meaningful recognition, engaging storytelling, and moments that reflect both our legacy and our forward momentum.
✨ A Glance at the Evening
📍 The Boat House at Confluence Park
📅 April 11th, 2026
⏰ 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
🎩 Black Tie / Formal Attire | Red & Gold Theme + a pop of color
🥂 VIP Cocktail Reception featuring live DJ, hors d’oeuvres & networking
🎥 “10 Years of Service” Tribute Video & Storytelling Moments
🍽️ Dinner Service with curated music and conversation prompts
🏆 Awards Ceremony honoring community champions, partners & YP leaders
💖 Live Fundraising Moments supporting the Change for Change Scholarship Fund + Organizational programming and sustainability
🎶 After-Dinner Celebration with DJ, dessert bar, and champagne toast
Meet our Keynote:
We’re honored to welcome Gia Peppers as the keynote speaker for the CULYP Inaugural Legacy Gala.
Gia is an award-winning journalist, host, and storyteller known for creating conversations that inspire growth, purpose, and community impact. Her work spans national media, red carpet interviews, and viral content that blends culture, wellness, and real-life leadership lessons.
What to expect: a powerful message centered on legacy, leadership, and the future we’re building together alongside our current President, Kendall White.
Interested in learning more about Gia? Visit her website!
Ticket Options
Secure your seat for an unforgettable evening celebrating legacy, impact, and the future of CULYP. Ticket sales end on Friday April 3rd.
General Admission
Member: $60
Non-Member: $70
Includes event entry and dinner.
VIP Admission
Member: $80
Non-Member: $90
Includes dinner, selected seating, early access, and two (2) drink tickets.
Table Experience
💫 $1,000 | Seats 8
Includes eight (8) VIP tickets, priority seating, and name recognition in the program booklet.
🎥 Your Story Is the Legacy
Were you part of CULYP over the past decade?
We are collecting testimonials, memories, and photos to feature in our Legacy Gala tribute video and upcoming storytelling campaign.
Traveling in for the Gala? We have special rates with Moxy Columbus Short North. Click Here
💫 Bring Your Network
The Legacy Gala is an ideal space to:
Entertain clients
Celebrate your team
Bring your professional network together
Introduce future leaders to CULYP
Interested in sponsorship or premium placement?
📩 Contact: CULYP.Development@cul.org
❤️ Supporting the Mission
Proceeds from the Legacy Gala support:
The Change for Change Scholarship Fund
Professional development programming
Civic engagement initiatives
Leadership opportunities for young professionals
Supporting our Affiliate Columbus Urban League
General Organization funding
Your attendance fuels real impact.
During our VIP Reception, guests will have the opportunity to enter to win one of three thoughtfully curated raffle baskets — each designed to reflect the lifestyle, ambition, and impact of today’s Young Professional.
These baskets highlight local businesses, community partners, and brands that invest in leadership, wellness, and growth.
Winners will be announced during the evening celebration.
Silent Auction
Experience
Self-Care & Wellness
A curated collection designed to restore, recharge, and elevate your well-being.
Potential In-Kind Items Include:
Spa or massage gift certificates
Wellness studio passes (yoga, Pilates, etc.)
Luxury skincare products
Therapy or coaching session credits
Wellness journals or affirmation card decks
Healthy meal prep service vouchers
Premium candle or self-care sets
This basket reminds us that sustainable leadership begins with personal wellness.
Potential In-Kind Items Include:
Tickets to CULYP signature events
Professional headshot session
Coworking space day passes or memberships
Professional styling or personal branding session
Business development books or leadership resources
LinkedIn profile review or career coaching session
Premium work bags or tech accessories
This basket represents access, growth, and professional elevation.
YP Essentials
Designed for the driven, ambitious, community-connected professional.
Family Business
A basket centered around connection, experiences, and shared moments.
Potential In-Kind Items Include:
Restaurant gift cards
Family activity passes (museums, sports, attractions)
Family photography session
Fitness or recreation memberships
Entertainment packages
Event tickets
This basket honors the balance between professional success and meaningful community life.