Held in late summer, the Student Send-Off and Trunk Party brings alumni together to support students heading to Tougaloo College for the academic year. Alumni provide encouragement, essentials, and supplies as students prepare to begin or continue their Tougaloo journey.

Founders Week celebrates the historic founding of Tougaloo College and includes campus-wide student activities, alumni engagement, and Fall Preview Day for prospective students. The week typically concludes with alumni returning to campus for fellowship and celebration of the College’s legacy.

The UNCF Superintendent’s Scholarship Gala supports scholarships for Chicago-area students pursuing higher education and brings together education leaders, partners, and community supporters to invest in student success. The effort is supported by Chicago education leadership, including Board of Trustees Chair and Superintendent Dr. Blondine Davis, and highlights the city’s commitment to expanding college access and opportunity.

Commencement Weekend, typically held the first weekend in May, celebrates graduating seniors and welcomes alumni back to campus. Events include the Two Rivers Gala, National Alumni Hall of Fame celebrations, Baccalaureate Service, and the official Commencement ceremony.

The UNCF Walk for Education in Chicago brings alumni, students, and community supporters together to raise scholarship funds and expand access to college. It’s a high-energy, family-friendly event that supports students attending HBCUs and other institutions through UNCF’s programs and fundraising efforts.

The UNCF Mayor’s Reception on Education is a signature Chicago benefit event that brings together civic, corporate, and community leaders to support higher education and scholarship access. The reception raises critical funds for students while highlighting UNCF’s impact and partnerships across the city.

Founders Week celebrates the historic founding of Tougaloo College and includes campus-wide student activities, alumni engagement, and Fall Preview Day for prospective students. The week typically concludes with alumni returning to campus for fellowship and celebration of the College’s legacy.

The UNCF Chicago Gala—often branded as the “A Mind Is…” Gala and historically known as the Black & White Ball—is one of the city’s premier fundraising and social events. The evening supports scholarships and UNCF programs while celebrating community leaders and champions of education.

The 100 Black Men of Chicago College Scholarship Fair is a major recruitment and scholarship opportunity for students and families across the region. The chapter supports Tougaloo’s presence by helping engage prospective students, sharing the Tougaloo experience, and connecting families to admissions and alumni support.

Held each February and centered around the basketball season, Homecoming brings alumni, students, and supporters back to campus for a weekend of fellowship and celebration. Activities typically include Spring Preview Day, Student Activities Week programming, and alumni gatherings on the Yard throughout the weekend.

Hosted by the Chicago Alumni Chapter each spring, the Honors Brunch recognizes alumni, supporters, and community leaders who demonstrate excellence and commitment to education and service. The event also serves as a fundraiser supporting Tougaloo College and alumni initiatives.

The Summer Social is a relaxed, intergenerational gathering for alumni, students, and friends to reconnect and celebrate during the Chicago summer. The event focuses on fellowship, networking, and strengthening alumni bonds in a festive atmosphere.