A local volunteer’s vision to expose high school students to opportunity and higher education pathways took center stage during the 2026 UNCF Columbus Mayor’s Masked Ball.
Dominic Overton, a volunteer with UNCF Columbus, led an effort to ensure students from the Muscogee County School District were included in the signature fundraising gala. His goal was to provide students with firsthand exposure to successful professionals, scholarship opportunities and the mission of the United Negro College Fund.
“I just didn’t think that information was getting to the children,” Overton said. “This was about showing them what’s possible and helping them see a future that includes college and opportunity.”
Overton partnered with Carver High School Principal Lacoya Day to identify students who exemplify leadership, character and potential. Initially selecting 20 students, the effort expanded to include 30 students, supported by the purchase of three tables at the event…