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2Team Jessica(Also Known As) Lead by Donald, Dana, Jessica, & Julian Lucas. Anne Burns, Dianna Campbell, Johnine Clark,Marielle Hall, Racquel Hall, Alicia Haughton,Carmen Kelly, Holli Holliday, Ashley-Marie Julian, Tamara McCants, Donna Potts, Kariba Tillman, Damali TotressCongratulatesThank you to all the family and friends who havesupported Jessica’s Pearl Ball experience.
3Dear Pearl Ball Debutantes,Congratulations on completing your journey through the cotillion program! Your dedication, hard work, and commitment to personal growth and development have brought you to this momentous occasion.Throughout this transformative experience, you have had the extraordinary opportunity to immerse yourselves in a diverse range of cultural, academic, and social activities. From leadership development to etiquette training; dance lessons to career planning workshops; and opportunities to bond and make new friends, you have embraced each opportunity with grace and enthusiasm.Moreover, your involvement in community service projects has not only enriched your own lives but has also positively impacted those around you. By dedicating your time and efforts to serving others, you have demonstrated leadership, compassion, and a genuine commitment to making a difference in the world.Your dedication to fundraising exemplifies the spirit of your dedication to raising funds for your college education, where you will continue to grow, learn, and prepare for a promising professional career.Today’s Pearl Ball Cotillion is more than just a formal presentation to society—it is a celebration of your achievements, your character, and your potential. Cherish this moment, for it marks the culmination of months of growth, learning, and selfdiscovery.We commend each of you for your accomplishments and wish you all the best as you embark on the next chapter of your journey. May the lessons you have learned and the memories you have created remain with you always, guiding you towards a future filled with success, fulfillment, and joy.Congratulations on this well-deserved honor!April 28, 2024With warmest regards,Arnitra Duckett, PresidentDC Pearls III Foundation andAlpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. ® Rho Mu Omega ChapterSaundra R. Roberts, Executive DirectorDC Pearls III Foundation
4Greetings:It has been my esteemed pleasure to serve as Chairman for the 2023 – 2024 Pearl Ball Cotillion Program hosted by the DC Pearls III Foundation, Incorporated in conjunction with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®., Rho Mu Omega Chapter. Let me be among the first to welcome our twenty-one Debutantes to Society. It was great witnessing the growth and development each debutante experienced since the start of the Program. Each young lady created memories that will last a lifetime. Additionally, I am proud of the opportunities this program afforded our debutantes and count it an honor to have positively impacted the lives of each program participant.Our debutantes gained immense life skills through the Leadership Institute. They honored their mothers during a Mother-Daughter Tea and participated in community service activities that benefited residents of the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Community. Debutantes had fun bowling with the fathers/father figures and Debutantes and Escorts honed their social grace skills by attending an Etiquette Workshop. Moreover, they actively engaged in group and individual fundraising activities in support of scholarships for themselves and others.I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate your parents and legal guardians for the investment you made in each Debutante. You contributed countless hours of commuting, networking, fundraising, and overall support of your respective daughters. And I know that you will cherish every special moment today. I applaud you for a job well done!As Chairman, I can honestly say that the past eleven months have been nothing short of a labor of love. Additionally, I was delighted to have the opportunity to get to know your daughters. In her own right, each young lady is unique, gracious, wise, humble, and humorous and I sincerely wish them every success in their future endeavors.Finally, the Cotillion Steering Committee worked extremely hard to make this program both memorable and meaningful. And I know that I speak for them in saying that we hope that tonight is as magical for you as it is for us. Sincerely,Stephanie R. Allen, Chairman2023-2024 Pearl Ball Cotillion April 28, 2024
52023-2024COTILLION STEERING COMMITTEEStephanie R. Allen, ChairmanStephanie R. Allen, Cotillion Chairman | DC Pearls III Foundation, Vice-President for DevelopmentArnitra Duckett, President | AKA, Rho Mu Omega Chapter / DC Pearls III FoundationGina Scott, Consultant, Vice-President | AKA, Rho Mu Omega Chapter / DC Pearls III FoundationSaundra Roberts, Executive Director | DC Pearls III FoundationShawna Berry, Deputy ChairmanTahia Marable, Deputy ChairmanTonya Robertson, Deputy ChairmanMaria Clark, Program ManagerDonna E. Davis, Vice-Chairman, Logistical PlanningDonica Young, Deputy Vice-ChairmanJahnae McCoy, Deputy Vice-ChairmanKirsten Roach, Vice-Chairman, Operational AffairsKatrice Pasteur, Deputy Vice-ChairmanKariba Tillman, Deputy Vice-ChairmanShari L. McCoy, Vice-Chairman, Event PlanningKaren Robinson, Deputy Vice-ChairmanWendie Thomas, Deputy Vice-ChairmanJoan Turner, Deputy Vice-Chairman, Program PlanningLaDonia Wilkins, Deputy Vice-ChairmanSharon Falby, Deputy Vice-ChairmanAveril Carraway, Finance ConsultantRasheena Wilson, Logistics Consultant
62023-2024 COTILLION SUBCOMMITTEECHAIRMAN AND MEMBERSStephanie R. Allen, ChairmanBudget & Finance Subcommittee:Angela Thornton-Young, Averil Carraway, Tonya Robertson, Karen WingfieldCotillion Budget Subcommittee: Averil Carraway Fundraising Subcommittee:Daneka Lucas, Chairman; Wendie Pulliam, Vice-Chairman; Members: Tonya Robertson, Stephanie AllenLogistics Subcommittee:Averil Carraway, Chairman; Rasheena Wilson Vice-ChairmanSouvenir Journal Subcommittee: Angela Hendrix Bell, Chairman; Ruby Freeman, Vice-Chairman; Members: Cotillion Executive CommitteeShari L. McCoy, Vice-Chairman, Event PlanningAttire Subcommittee: Sheila Maness, Chairman; Chereace Richards, Vice-ChairmanCommunications Subcommittee: Monet’ Ross, Chairman Cultural & Social Activities Subcommittee:Cheryl Eggleston, Chairman; Khadijah Harvin, Vice-Chairman; Kellie Jackson-Lomax, Vice-ChairmanDecorations & Flowers Subcommittee:Kesha Mitchell, Chairman; Melissa Knight, Vice-Chairman; Members: Janet Corbitt, Annette Cureton, Rashawnna Banks, Pam Carter Coleman, Cianni Dudley, Jan Elston, Towanna Friend, Sharon Gomillion, Kesha Mitchell, Lolita Hoover, Nahir Henry, Lola Knights, Michaela Smith, Kenya McNealy, Sabrina Pinnix, Joan TurnerEscorts Subcommittee: Valencia Rodgers, Chairman; Ashley Julian, Vice-ChairmanMother / Daughter Tea Subcommittee: Michaela Smith, Chairman; Lola Knights, Vice-Chairman; Members: Cheryl Eggleston, G. Delores Ellerbe, Kellie Jackson Lomax, Aida Garoute-Nelson, Lauren Wells, Jacqueline Williams, Janet Corbit, Annette Cureton, Robin Marcus, Quinci Moody, Shelby Thomas, Wendie Thomas, Damali TotresPublicity and Social Media Subcommittee:Sydney Porter, Chairman; Asya Heatley, Vice-Chairman Kirsten Roach, Vice-Chairman, Operational AffairsCommunity Service Project Subcommittee: LaDonia Wilkins, Chairman; Felicia Brown, Vice-ChairmanEtiquette Workshop Subcommittee:Sabrina Pinnix, Co-Chairman; Kariba Tillman, Co-ChairmanGuest Speaker & Announcers Subcommittee: Tahia Marable, Chairman; Teresa Scott, Vice-Chairman; and Denise Reed, Vice-Chairman
7Kirsten Roach, Vice-Chairman, Operational Affairs ... con’tHostess Subcommittee: Sandra Montgomery, Chairman; Jackie Hardy Vice-ChairmanLeadership Institute Workshops Subcommittee: Charneta Scott, Chairman; Towanna Friend, Vice-ChairmanMarketing & Graphic Design Subcommittee: Angela Hendrix-Bell, Chairman; Ruby Freeman, Vice-Chairman; Members: Maria Clark, Asya Heatley, Tahia Marable, Saundra RobertsDonna E. Davis, Vice-Chairman, LogisticAl PlanningAwards / Gifts Subcommittee: Tonya Robertson, Chairman; Gayle Shuford, Vice-Chairman; Members; Shawna Berry, Sharelle Stagg, Karen Robinson, Joan Turner, Wendy Pulliam, Daneka LucasCulminating Event Subcommittee: Donica Young, Chairman; Jasmine Mitchell, Vice-Chairman; Members: Courtney Bell, Jahnae McCoyDance Rehearsal Subcommittee: Donica Young, Chairman, Courtney Bell, Vice-Chairman; Members: Stephanie R. Allen, Donna E. Davis, Averil Carraway, Angela West Thompson, Jahnae McCoy, Tahia MarableHandbook Subcommittee: Stephanie R.Allen, Vice-Chairman; Averil Carraway, Vice-Chairman; Member: Maria ClarkPhotographer / Videographer Subcommittee:Cipriana Patterson, Chairman; Bridget Reavis Tyler, Vice-ChairmanProtocol / Hospitality Subcommittee:Jan Elston, Chairman; Maria Clark, Vice-ChairmanSponsorships Subcommittee:Holli Townsend, ChairmanTechnology: Stephanie R. Allen, Chairman; Shawna Berry, Vice-Chairman; Tahia Marable, Vice-ChairmanJoan Tuner, Vice-Chairman, Program PlanningCreativity Liaisons: Carla Hillary, Chairman; Lolita Hoover, Vice-Chairman; Members: Robin Rice, and Joyce NixonEntertainment /Band Subcommittee: Karen Robinson, Chairman; Katherine Harvey, Vice-ChairmanRegistration/Seating Registration Subcommittee: Joyce Nixon, Chairman; Kariba Tillman, Co-Chairman; Audra Dunbar, Vice-Chairman; Members: Stephanie Allen, Donna E. Davis, Averil Carraway, Rasheena Rowley, Angela West Thompson, Angela Thornton-Young,Tonya Robertson, Karen Robinson, Jan Elston and Maria Clark.Scrapbook Subcommittee: Courtney Bell, Chairman; Donica Young, Vice-Chairman Members: Donna E. Davis, Jahnae McCoy and Joan TurnerSelection Process Subcommittee: Phyllis Throckmorton, Chairman; Donna E. Davis, Vice-Chairman
8OUR HISTORYDC PEARLS III FOUNDATIONDC Pearls III Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that was incorporated in 2002 by the members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.® Rho Mu Omega Chapter. We sponsor initiatives that focus on the underserved communities in Washington, DC to reduce disparities in the areas of health, education, economic security, and cultural arts. Our fundraising events like the Pearl Ball Cotillion allow us to sponsor community programs like our Annual Historically Black College and University (HBCU) College Tour and to award annual college scholarships. Additionally, DC Pearls III Foundation is charged with pursuing grants, corporate sponsorships and other income streams that are used to fund Rho Mu Omega’s and other like-minded charitable organizations’ community initiatives. Please visit us at dcpearlsiii.org to learn more about DC Pearls III Foundation. alpha kappa alpha sorority, incorporatedRHO MU OMEGA CHAPTERThe year was 1988. “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” was the Grammy Record of the Year, Michael Jordan was the NBA’s Most Valuable Player of the Year. Eugene Antonio Mario became the first African American Roman Catholic Archbishop in the US. Max Robinson became the first black network TV anchor. The biennial international conference was being held in Los Angeles, CA. Marla Gibbs, Mae Jemison and Rosa Parks were initiated as Honorary Members at the Conference. Alvin Ailey received the Kennedy Center Honors Award and Pearl Bailey received the Presidential Medal of Freedom. In Washington, D.C., exactly 80 years after the Sorority was founded, 76 women- chartered Rho Mu Omega Chapter on October 30, 1988. The first meeting was held on June 24, 1987 with six members in attendance. These members set the goals, proposed names for the interest group, and formed committees. Over the next few weeks the program, bylaws, and budget were developed. At the second meeting in July, 23 Members officially organized the interest group by voting on the above-mentioned reports and accepting the name D.C. Pearls, Part III.Rho Mu Omega, an award-winning chapter, has actively organized and participated in community and sorority activities under the various International Program themes. Some of the chapter’s many successful activities include scholarships to local high school students, an annual Black College Tour, a partnership with the Luke C. Moore Academy High School, Thanksgiving and Christmas baskets, gifts for needy families and students, movie days, support of the NCNW Black Family Reunion, and Loaves and Fishes, a volunteer food program for homeless men and women at St. Stephens and the Incarnation Episcopal Church, in Washington, D.C. The chapter has received numerous awards over the years, which include citations for outstanding programs at the regional and national level, Regional Chapter of the Year, President of the Year, the Graduate Good Citizenship Award; and first place Regional Leadership, Program and Membership Awards. The chapter also jointly received the first place North Atlantic Region Spirit Award with the two other chapters in D.C. and its award-winning Step Team received more than 22 trophies, plaques, and certificates for outstanding step performances.Rho Mu Omega has increased its membership through retention and reactivating several members annually. As the pearls on its necklace grow, Rho Mu Omega continues to work diligently as it strives to be of SERVICE TO ALL MANKIND.
9Mistresses of CeremonyShawna R. Berry & Tahia MarableIntroduction of Mistresses of Ceremony Stephanie R. Allen, Chairman2024 Pearl Ball Scholarship CotillionGreetings Arnitra Duckett, PresidentAlpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, IncorporatedRho Mu Omega Chapter / DC Pearls III FoundationSaundra Roberts, Executive DirectorDC Pearls III FoundationBlessing of Food Jan Elston, First LadyGood Hope Union United Methodist ChurchSilver Spring, MDDinnerEntertainment - The Brian Cunningham ProjectPresentation of Debutantes Shawna Berry & Tahia MarableThe Cotillion DancesChoreographer – Tia L. Belton, Point of EleganceDebutante & Father Waltz Ballerina Girl, Geoff Eales OrchestraDebutante & Escort Waltz Golden Hour (Instrumental), JVKEDebutante Promenade Halo (Instrumental), Beyonce’Introduction of Guest Speaker Stephanie R. AllenCharge to Debutantes Gina Scott, 1st Vice-President“She Who Holds the Crown” Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, IncorporatedRho Mu Omega Chapter / DC Pearls III FoundationThe Awards Ceremony Stephanie R. Allen Tonya Robertson Joan Turner Daneka Lucas Gayle Shuford Karen Robinson Sharelle Stagg Wendy PulliamThe Coronation CeremonyCrowning of 2024 Miss Pearl Ball Stephanie R. Allen Lindsay Townsend, Miss Pearl Ball 2022Kennedy Nixon, Miss Pink Satin Pearl 2023Closing Remarks Arnitra DuckettTHE PROGRAMME
10Supporters & DonationsPLATINUM PEARL Sophia BluckerKafi & Larry BerryPeyton HolmesThe Graham Family (Kenneth, Bonita & Kendall Graham)Jessica LucasLinda AikensAnne BurnsSharon EasterlingMr. & Mrs. Nigel and Erica MarshallDonna P. PottsZillah WesleyAliyah OwensSherrell Moore-TuckerAndel OwensAlexis ParrotDiana ArringtonRoz ParkerBruce Parrott & Michele Edmondson-ParrottTatum PrimusSteddy PrimusAyana ShawMarinna Banks ShieldsDalene BryantThe Lux AffairIsiah McIverAisha StaplesMichael WattsMarcus WilliamsPeyton HolmesKathy AdeGo Grow & BeOsei HeadleyJessica LucasThe DMP Group, LLCDr. & Mrs. Ronald and Racquel HallDana LucasToni-Michelle C. TravisCharlie ColeRonald WrightGabrielle DavisScott DavisPeyton HolmesSpencer DavisMichelle HolmesJessica LucasMr. & Mrs. Howard and Alicia HaughtonMr. & Mrs. Amos and Holli TownsendSummer MarshallGeraldine MarshallBLACK PEARLPINK PEARL GOLD PEARLPeyton HolmesAubrey VerdunJessica LucasHolli HollidayAyana ShawAlton Pender
11SUPPORTERS & DONATIONSNia BetheaVerna Cheryl DavisFrene GreeneJamil ThomasSophia BluckerMarguerite Elaine BluckerSusan PeevyIndia BrodieSharon Beverly-GomillionFelicia BrownDerrick FrayerAnita LewisO’Neal MontgomeryJohn O’BrienTeresa ScottSharelle StaggTaylor ClevelandCheryl CampbellTami CollinsCharlie ColeElaine J. AbbasGabrielle DavisErin CannonChhaya DeonauthLinda GarmanEiad HameedJulia Keeda JohnsonMonica HenkelShukriyah SatterfieldCelia WilliamsonCaroline EasterlingNatasha LuddingtonMyron WillisKori GuileJanet & Jerry ScheckVanedra SmithPeyton HolmesJackie Brown-LandryLori BrittainNatasha WashingtonJessica LucasRobyn & James AlexanderErin AndrewsMr. & Mrs. Anthony and Carla CarrellWallace B. Ashby & Lois E. AdamsDewayne BarnesSharon Beverly-GomillionMr. & Mrs. Frank and Jill BorrisChrystal BrownRenee BrownGregory CampbellSoror Luana Dean-BarberTracy EllisJaSun FroneCharlotte HollomanJacqueline LaRueDouglas LeftridgeAndrea LewisDonald C. Lucas (Grandfather)April A. Payne-McMillianPaula PottsPremium Title & Escrow, LLCAntoinette H. SchoolerTeresa ScottHolli TownsendWe Feed Our PeopleYvette WilliamsTamara McCantsSummer MarshallBarbara JohnsonJoy MarshallCrystal SmithLyric McCoyAdunni AndersonDorothy Carter-AnthonyG. Delores EllerbeCarolyn GreenLaVerne MillerBarbra PopeBridgitte TimptonBrooke OliverHush Harbor Group, LLCChristopher WoodleyAliyah OwensMalinda ChisholmDana CunninghamGenevieve Gaisie, Ph.D.Belynda GentryKen & Dee HowardSylvia HuntleyShanta KinghamChereace RichardsSabrina L. TuckerMike WilliamsAlexis ParrotLinda B. AbbottMichelle Baker-BartlettNguyen DangJace ParrottThomas PhanLashawn ReeseFlosetta RowryKay SchneiderA. Tabe-BedwardTatum PrimusAlan BoldenSelby Primus Leah Taylor & FamilyAyana ShawJane AlexanderDebbie BrodieDeanna HowellJason LeecostMichael V. Shaw, JrMichael ShawTye StuckeyRobin TinsleyTumika TurmanRobin WilkersonSkyler WilliamsOnya HaywardRichard HarrisIkeicha ParkerBlinda WilliamsSILVER PEARL
12SUPPORTERS & DONATIONSNia BetheaDanielle BantonNatalie BarnesSanita CoxDebra GreeneKathy GreeneDebra HarrisRodney HenryAnn Marie RezelmanLenarrd SmithPaula TrotmanBrandi WatkinsAli WickwardSophia BluckerKendra HarrisBeth HesterRita MilesIndia BrodiePaula CommodoreDeryl & Kathy FlemingLisa HobbsJanet JacksonAlicia JohnsonMike NilesNorthwestern Alumni Class 1980Beatrice SingletonAngela Thornton-YoungMichelle WattsTaylor ClevelandTaylor ClevelandLeslie CooperErika HawkinsAnita KingRobin LaneyCharlie ColeKimberly BowdreJackie JilesGabrielle DavisKaren JordanDerek & Ayodelle SyphaxPrincess WilliamsChhaya DeonauthJack BartlettMegan EphraimLisa GittensDoris JacksonCarol MasseyAnnette MilesZandra PersaudShannon WrightBelinda YaugerCaroline EasterlingCamille FranklinSondra D. RaspberryCalvin YoungKori GuileSharon FalbyWarren & Adrienne StimpsonC. SwanPeyton HolmesSonora JacksonJessica LucasJoseph AskewSylvia BallingerDeidra BarksdaleCulver & Theresa S. Bonds ClarkDianna CampbellTasha Carroll-SealsRich DavisJan ElstonJanice FerebeeChina FrazierBenjamin GriffinAllison HillRaleigh Jackson, IIIGreg JeffersonCarmen KellySusan LeighDaneka LucasOlivia PearsonKellie PerryDana PowellHomer PriceAntoinette H. SchoolerGayle ShufordBrenda SilvilsEllen SistareDamali TotressCandice TownsendSummer MarshallElnora LewisJacqueline MaconPatricia ParkerLyric McCoySharon Beverly-GomillionMarian BoboLaDedra DrummondJan ElstonDebbie GaliberAdriene GrantJessie Harris-ChavisAngela HolmesGloria JamesLinda JeffersonCarolyn KellyArleah LelandLeslie Lyles SmithRamona MebaneBarbara E. MurraySusan NelsonTracie QuanderDominique ShepperdBrenda SilvilsGayle Thigpen-AllenTraci WashingtonPamella WilkinsBrooke OliverMontina AndersonAnnies HardwareRonnellAliyah OwensTonya AndersonAndrea DardenTracene DavisShadonna GibsonCozzette Lyons- JonesChanelle MannSonya PeeblesMarsie RossGinger ThompkinsTatum PrimusNakita McNeil-WestJuliet FullerKaren WingfieldBRONZE PEARL
13SUPPORTERS & DONATIONSNia BetheaChanelle MontgomeryChardon JonesDebby MitchellFarrah GarciaKevin FloydKirvona GarvinMalikah AdamsMichele NajiNaim NajiRayvon StanleySophia BluckerCalmer SchoolsTonya SpryJewel W. DavisShirley A. & Marlon C. SmithIndia BrodieDelores FurmanEarl BottsKaren ReznekKaren WingfieldNancy McCormick-PickettPhillicia NelsonRS Graphx, Inc.Theresa McDougaldIrene EvansJasmine AndrewsPamela LeachStormie ZanfordinoCarlin BrodieTaylor ClevelandStephanie R. AllenElla BakerKelly CarringtonKenyetta HuntJuanita LeslieTameka LancasterDenice SouthallGabrielle DavisGabrielle DavisCaroline EasterlingRhonda BarnesCaroline EasterlingDeborah EvansPaula WyattJessica LucasEvelyn P. Boyers Favors PODJohnine ClarkNorbeck Community ChurchAngelita DozierAdrienne EllisNkeshi FreeJackie HardyBrandon HarrellStephanie HarrisonWalt HillTheresa McDougaldKara MitchellM/M Norman & N’gima SeniorCoach Quincy WadleySummer MarshallJames & Michelle GaddyTheresa JenningsLaVeren LawrenceLyric McCoyValerie DuckerAnan JohnsonRenee KearneySusan LeighTheresa McDougaldDr. Cheryl MercerDenise ReedTonica Tatum-GormesRacine Tucker-HamiltonAliyah OwensJanuary GabrielMelinda PopeRegina RobertsonTanya Seller’s-HannibalAlexis ParrotMonica BelleTatum PrimusAlecia Francis Lesli JacksonAyana ShawThais DavisTirmira RobinsonSkyler WilliamsCaprice CaldwellNichole CobbsChablis DavisBrooke LanghorneJacqueline MarkhamMarcus McDonaldYomi NtewoRhonda RowellToni SmithPEARL
14
1515INTRODUCINGTHE
16Nia Aminah BetheaParents/Guardians: Mr. Brandon Bethea and Ms. Nena NajiPEARL BALL Debutante
1717Deb Quote“You only live once.” and “It is what it is.”Escort Noah Pittman Parents/Guardians: Mr. and Mrs. Monique and Kenya PittmanGrade/High School: Junior, St. John’s College High School, Washington, DCActivities: Basketball; Ski Club Member; Entrepreneur Club Member, Track; AAU Basketball League; Fluent in Mandarin; Snowboarding; Photography; Clothing Brand Owner; Jack and Jill of America Member; Counselor at Capitol City RoboticsGrade/School: Junior, Columbia Heights Educational Campus, Washington, DCActivities: A few activities I enjoy include working at Chick-fil-A as a part-time team member, crocheting, spending time with my family and knitting blankets for example.Aspiration/Future Goals: My aspirations consist of becoming a Real-Estate Agent, Licensed Cosmetologist and/or Entrepreneur.Role Model(s): My role models are my mother, both sets of grandparents and my dad.
18India Aliyah BrodieParents/Guardians: Mr. and Mrs. James and Selina BrodiePEARL BALL Debutante
1919Deb Quote“never judge a book by its cover.”Escort Antoino Gonzales Alexander Guzman Ms. Claudia Guzman: Ms. Claudia GuzmanGrade/High School: Senior, Northwestern High School, Adelphi, MD Activities: Special Olympics sports (Basketball and Swim) and New Carrollton Dolphins Swim Team Grade/School: Junior, Northwestern High School, Adelphi, MD Activities: A few activities I enjoy are swimming, Girl Scouts, cheerleading, bocce, and track and field.Aspiration/Future Goals: My goals are to go to college to become a fashion designer, get my own apartment and later have a family.Role Model(s): My Favorite Cousin, Amaya Berry
20Sophia Grace BluckerParents/Guardians: Mr. Aaron Blucker and Mrs. Yolanda StanislausPEARL BALL Debutante
2121Deb Quote“Each movement is the sum total of moments and experiences.” –Alvin Ailey Escort Josh Burnette, Jr.Parents/Guardians: Mr. and Mrs. Joshua and Ashleigh BurnetteGrade/High School: Senior, Rockville High School, Rockville, MDActivities: Captain (MVP) Rockville Varsity Football Team and Captain Rockville Varsity Basketball TeamGrade/School: Senior, James Hubert Black High School, Colesville, MDActivities: A few activities I engage in include being a pre-professional dancer at CityDance Conservatory, contributing to my community, I sit on the Advisory Board for the Sandy Spring Slave Museum and African Art Gallery. Actively involved in education, I assist young dancers and work in the school media center. Additionally, I hold the position of Vice President for the NAACP Youth Council and am a proud member of Top Teens of America, fostering leadership and community engagement. My multifaceted activities reflect a commitment to both personal growth and making a positive impact on the world around me.Aspiration/Future Goals: I’m excited about college, aiming for a double major in Dance and Psychology. This blend will grant insights into human thought and expressive movement. My goal is to become a performance artist, advocating holistic wellness and cross-cultural understanding through dance, acting as a bridge between diverse culturesRole Model(s): My older sister, Olivia, serves as my role model. She always encourages me and is a constant source of support. She exemplifies that hard work and respectful treatment helps to create positive environments. Her actions reflect the enduring impact of dedication and kindness. She is not only my sister but, my best friend.
22Taylor Nichole ClevelandParents/Guardians: Mrs. Latoya Cleveland and Mr. Maurice ClevelandPEARL BALL Debutante
2323Deb Quote“Life isn’t about finding yourself, life is about creating yourself” Escort Korey Antoine GravesParents/Guardians: Ms. Kiana GravesGrade/High School: c/o 2023 graduate, Dr. Henry Wise Jr. High School, Upper Marlboro, MD Activities: Employed with a local retail chain. While attending high school, I played the trumpet with the school band. Grade/School: Junior, St. Charles High School, Waldorf, MDActivities: A few activities I enjoy are competitive cheerleading and swimming. Aspiration/Future Goals: To attend college and become a chiropractor.Role Model(s): My mother Latoya Cleveland.
24Charlie Monique ColeParents/Guardians: Dr. Cherise Cole and Mr. Ronald Cole PEARL BALL Debutante
2525Deb Quote“Let everything happen to you, beauty and terror, just keep going, no feeling is final.” ~Rainer Maria RilkeEscort Adrian TaylorParents/Guardians: Ms. Kisha TaylorGrade/High School: Sophomore, Lab School of Washington, Washington, DCActivities: Track and Field; Kappa League (Bowie-Mitchellville Alumni Chapter);Theater; and Muay Thai and Jiu Jitsu Martial ArtsGrade/School: Junior, School Without Walls, Washington, DCActivities: A few activities I participated in are SWW Choir; SWW Orchestra; SWW Tennis Team; DCPS Chancellor’s Advisory Board; Youth Leadership of Greater Washington; Jack and Jill of America Incorporated; Health Justice Club and Red Cross ClubAspiration/Future Goals: My aspiration in life is to attend college and eventually attend medical school with a specialty in obstetrics.Role Model(s): My mom, Viola Davis, my grandma, and all of my aunts on both sides of my family.
26Gabrielle Arianna DavisParents/Guardians: Mr. Scott Davis and Mrs. Monique Davis PEARL BALL Debutante
2727Deb Quote“You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.” Escort Ryan PasteurParents/Guardians: Mr. and Mrs. Reginald and Katrice PasteurGrade/High School: Senior, Frederick Douglass High School, Upper Marlboro, MDActivities: Varsity SoccerGrade/School: Senior, Archbishop Carroll High School, Washington, DCActivities: A few activities I enjoy volleyball; managing the basketball team at my high school; and volunteering as a student journalistAspiration/Future Goals: My goal is to have my own sports talk show on ESPN in the future. Role Model(s): My older sister, Lynn and my older brother, Aaron.
28Chhaya DeonauthParents/Guardians: The Late Mr. Kumash Deonauth and Ms. Dominique Laws PEARL BALL Debutante
2929Deb Quote“You’re never fully dressed without a smile :)” Escort Freddie LamourParents/Guardians: Mr. and Mrs. Frederic and Magalie LamourGrade/High School: Junior, CMIT South, Rosaryville, MDActivities: Gaming; Hanging with Friends and Watching Movies/TVGrade/School: Senior, Jackson Reed High School, Washington, DCActivities: I’m a big lover of all things art. I paint, crochet, act, sing, and dance. I also love forensics and spend my weekends interning at the morgue.Aspiration/Future Goals: My aspirations are to major in Biology and become a medical examiner to perform autopsies.Role Model(s): My mother is my biggest role model, she is the strongest, most organized, most passionate, and caring woman I have ever met, and I am proud to be her daughter (and to look just like her).
30Caroline Alexandria Camille EasterlingParents/Guardians: Mr. and Mrs. Sheridan and Carla Ware-Easterling PEARL BALL Debutante
3131Deb Quote“No matter who you are, no matter where you come from, you are beautiful.” ~Michelle ObamaEscort Dwayne Ham Jr. Parents/Guardians: Mr. and Mrs. Dwayne Eugene Ham, Sr. and Nikki HamGrade/High School: Sophomore, Indian Creek School, Crownsville, MDActivities: Basketball; Track & Cross-country; Eagle Scout; Black Student AllianceMember and One Love Club; Writing and Bodybuilding Grade/School: Senior, Washington Latin Public Charter School, Washington, DCActivities: A few activities I enjoy are volleyball, strength training, art, music, and crafting.Aspiration/Future Goals: My aspirations in life are to protect the environment, study mathematics and engineering, and preserve our history.Role Model(s): My mother Carla Ware-Easterling is my role model. Over the years she has demonstrated strength, courage, perseverance, and resilience to ensure that I am happy, safe, and loved.
32Kori Alexandra Alyssa GuileParents/Guardians: Mr. and Mrs. Kevin and Loretta GuilePEARL BALL Debutante
3333Deb Quote“It’s just really about trying to do whatever it is I do at a level of excellence. That’s really all I’m trying to do while I’m here.” ~Frank OceanEscort Rowan Mumford Parents/Guardians: Mr. and Mrs. Valdez and Kesha MumfordGrade/High School: Senior, Eleanor Roosevelt High School, Greenbelt, MDActivities: Science & Tech Dual-enrollment program, Capstone Research 2021-2024; Media Club - Executive Board Secretary; Men’s Varsity Lacrosse - Team Captain; Eleanor Roosevelt Black Student Union - Social Media ManagerGrade/School: Senior, Elizabeth Seton High School, Bladensburg, MD Activities: A few activities I enjoy include being Vice President of Student Government Association; National Honor Society; Head of event planning for Innovation Club; and a member of the Youth Women Entrepreneurship Pre-Career programAspiration/Future Goals: My future goals are to become a CEO of a company and continue to successfully run my business, K.G. Real Estate.Role Model(s): My role models are my grandparents, my parents, and my sisters.
34Peyton Madison HolmesParents/Guardians: Ms. Renee Holmes and Mr. Elston McElroyPEARL BALL Debutante
3535Deb Quote“Does my haughtiness offend you? Don’t you take it awful hard ’Cause I laugh like I’ve got gold mines Diggin’ in my own backyard.” ~ Still I Rise by Maya AngelouEscort Christian Kofi Charles Parents/Guardians: Mr. and Mrs. Reuben and Kimberly CharlesGrade/High School: Senior, Georgetown Day School, Washington, DC Activities: Varsity Soccer and Varsity Basketball Grade/School: Senior, Jackson Reed High School, Washington, DCActivities: A few activities I partake in include community service efforts and Yale Model Congress at my school, to name a few. As a form of community service, I clean the littered streets of my neighborhood with my family, also referred to as “Adopt a Block”. I also participate in Yale Model Congress, which is a simulation that emulates the functions and processes of the U.S. Congress.Aspiration/Future Goals: My aspirations in life begin with my education. In the near future, I will be a graduate of Drexel University’s Honor College, with my Juris Doctorate. Soon after, I aim to become a distinguished attorney. As I progress in my career I will form lasting relationships and connections with like-minded individuals. Lastly, like many I aspire to be genuinely happy. Role Model(s): My role models are my mother, aunt, and grandmother. The women I have listed are the pinnacle and the epitome of what a woman is. These women are strong, independent, and determined which are factors that influenced my success and the well-rounded individual I am today.
36Jessica Coleman LucasParents/Guardians: Mr. and Mrs. Don and Dana Lucas PEARL BALL Debutante
3737Deb Quote“Trust yourself. Think for yourself. Act for yourself. Speak for yourself. Be yourself. Imitation is suicide.” ~ Marva Collins Escort Kaizen Settles Parents/Guardians: Mr. and Mrs. John, II and Jacqueline Allen-Settles Grade/High School: Senior, Jackson-Reed High School, Washington, DCActivities: Nationally ranked High School Basketball team, Elected Youth City Council Member At-Large, DC Mayor’s Youth Leadership Program; former Democracy Now Scholar; DC Council Member intern. Grade/School: Senior, St. John’s College High School, Washington, DCActivities: A few activities I enjoy are competing in basketball, swimming, softball, and volleyball. I serve as a community service youth leader; a Research Assistant for the RaceIdentity-and-Social-Environments project at Brown University; and head volleyball coach of a youth travel team. Aspiration/Future Goals: My future goals include empowering young women through sports and women’s health; attending a Historically Black College or University in the Fall, and majoring in Psychology and Neuroscience, and ultimately pursue a PhD.Role Model(s): My role model is my mom, Dana Lucas. She is a strong, determined woman who runs her own accounting business, and she doesn’t take anything from anybody. Her powerful and unique presence inspires me to pursue my dreams and be the best at whatever I do.
38Summer Joy Briana MarshallParents/Guardians: Mr. and Mrs. Brian and Joy Marshall PEARL BALL Debutante
3939Deb Quote“We have a torch and we should use it to lighten everyone else’s darkness.” ~ Ethel Hedgemon Lyle Escort Xavion Chisley Parents/Guardians: Mr. and Mrs. Xavier and Johnitka Jennifer-ChisleyGrade/High School: Junior, Bishop McNamara Catholic High School, Forestville, MDActivities: Varsity Football; Kappa League; Project Pride Leadership ProgramGrade/School: Junior, Frederick Douglass High School, Upper Marlboro, MDActivities: A few activities I engage include the National Honor Society; Angela Alsobrooks Youth Leadership Institute Sergeant-atArms, National Harbor Chapter Historian of Jack and Jill of America Inc.; FDHS Swim Team; FDHS Tennis Team Co-Captain; Positive Outlook Club; and Photography Club.Aspiration/Future Goals: I plan to attend an HBCU and pursue a degree in Business Administration with a minor in Psychology. Role Model(s): My mom is my ultimate role model because she embodies strength, kindness, and resilience. As her daughter, I aspire to emulate her admirable qualities and follow her inspiring example.
40Lyric Faith McCoy Parents/Guardians: Mr. David McCoy and Ms. Olette Fortune PEARL BALL Debutante
4141Deb Quote“You never find yourself until you face the truth.” ~ Pearl BaileyEscort Gavin Wynn Parents/Guardians: Ms. Kelli WynnGrade/High School: Sophomore, McKinley Technology High School, Washington, DCActivities: Kappa League (DC Alumni Chapter); Washington National Cathedral Leadership Institute, McKinley Technical High School Tennis, and Community Volunteer Grade/School: Senior, Capital City Public Charter School, Washington, DCActivities: A few activities I enjoy are working in the IT department for my school and serving as a member of the prom committee.Aspiration/Future Goals: I would love to work in the Behavior Analysis unit at the FBI in the future.Role Model(s): My role models are my mom and my favorite singer Melanie Martinez.
42Brooke Victoria OliverParents/Guardians: Mr. and Mrs. Stephen and Ericka OliverPEARL BALL Debutante
4343Deb Quote“Stay true to yourself, yet always be open to learn. Work hard, and never give up on your dreams, even when nobody else believes they can come true but you” ~ Andre 3000Escort Isaiah Brooks Parents/Guardians: Mr. and Mrs. Michael and Bianca BrooksGrade/High School: Junior, Archbishop Carroll High School, Washington, DCActivities: Fluent in Mandarin; Basketball; Soccer; Lacrosse; Flag Football; Track and Field and competitive swim with PG Pool Killer Whales Grade/School: Junior, Washington Latin Public Charter, Washington, DCActivities: A few activities I participate in are track and field; Girl Scouts and College BoundAspiration/Future Goals: I want to become a Board-Certified Dermatologist with my own practice.Role Model(s): My mother and grandmothers
44Aaliyah Catherine OwensParents/Guardians: The Late Dr. Celeste Owens and Mr. Andel Owens PEARL BALL Debutante
4545Deb Quote“Quiet people have the loudest minds” ~ Stephen HawkingEscort Tomas Vick Parents/Guardians: Mr. and Mrs. Mark and Lindsey Vick Grade/High School: Senior, Gonzaga College High School, Washington, DCActivities: Poetry; collecting records and sneakers; Mid-distance track; Community service; Student leadership, Mentorship, Coding and programming Grade/School: Junior, Elizabeth Seton High School Bladensburg, MDActivities: A few activities I take joy in are track & field, choir, guitar, and painting.Aspiration/Future Goals: I aspire to be a forensic pathologist. My goal is to be happy and have a family.Role Model(s): Sydney Mclaughlin
46Alexis Victoria ParrottParents/Guardians: MSgt. Bruce E. Parrott, ANG (Ret.) & Michele Edmondson-Parrott, JD, MSPEARL BALL Debutante
4747Deb Quote“She remembered who she was, and the game changed.” ~ Kennedy Ryan, Long ShotEscort Warren ‘Tre’ Waddell III Parents/Guardians: Mr. and Mrs. Warren and LaToya Waddell, Jr. Grade/High School: Senior, St. Vincent Pallotti High School, Laurel, MDActivities: Jack & Jill of America; Kappa League; INROADS; Pallotti Varsity Baseball Grade/School: Junior, Bullis School, Potomac, MDActivities: I participate in Student Government Association; club lacrosse; varsity lacrosse; Co-director of Bullis Student Tutors; National Honor Society; Science National Honor Society; National English Honor Society; National Arts Honor Society; and Medical Minds Club.Aspiration/Future Goals: I plan to study neuroscience in college and envision a future career in the healthcare field, either as a physician or researcher. My goal is to become a neurosurgeon, possibly specializing in pediatric care.Role Model(s): My mom, my grandma, and Ruth Bader Ginsburg
48Shahzadeh PasikhaniParents/Guardians: Mr. and Mrs. Hamidreza and Moraeme Pasikhani PEARL BALL Debutante
4949Deb Quote“If tomorrow’s no good, you’ll have the next day.” Escort Elijah Cardell Craig Parents/Guardians: Mr. and Mrs. Gary and Ola Craig Grade/High School: Sophomore, Bishop McNamara High School, Forestville, MD Activities: Varsity Lacrosse and Basketball Grade/School: Junior, Jackson Reed High School, Washington, DCActivities: A few activities I enjoy are golf; softball; bowling; AALEAD; ASU; dance; crochet; JROTC; gym; engineering; computer science and cyber security.Aspiration/Future Goals: I aspire to become an engineering and or computer scientist. My goal is to live comfortably when I’m older and to continue to travel the world and eat lots of food. Role Model(s): My older brother is my inspiration. He’s the reason I wanted to do engineering/ computer science and he’s been the person always supporting me and having my back whenever I’m in need. His flaws also are great lessons for me to learn from as well.
50Tatum Alexis Michael PrimusParents/Guardians: Mr. Michael Primus and Ms. Daivernee Garrett PEARL BALL Debutante