UDC hosted its Presidential Partners Reception on May 29, 2025, at The University Club. The event welcomed distinguished guests, civic leaders, alumni, students and corporate partners and marked the official countdown to UDC’s 175th Anniversary Founders’ Day Gala scheduled for February 2026. The gathering celebrated the strategic partnerships that are propelling the university into a new era of excellence.
Richard Lucas, chief advancement officer, served as the emcee for the evening, welcoming guests and presenting an overview of the university’s vision and fundraising strategy in anticipation of next year’s gala.
Mayor Muriel Bowser delivered heartfelt remarks about her long-standing support for the District’s only public university. “UDC is not just an institution of higher learning,” she said. “It’s a vital part of the District’s future, workforce and community.”
President Maurice D. Edington followed with a compelling update on the state of the university. He shared progress aligned with UDC’s strategic plan, “Delivering on the Promise,” highlighting new degree and certificate offerings, recent investments in student success and career readiness and major strides in research and innovation—including the recent launch of a D.C. Tech Hub in Ward 8 focused on cybersecurity apprenticeships.
Edington emphasized the power of partnerships in UDC’s growth. “We cannot do this work alone,” he said. “Through these partnerships, we are creating real-world learning opportunities and expanding access to underserved communities. Your investment in UDC is helping us turn our potential into power.”
One of the evening’s highlights came from Valencia McClure, Pepco’s vice president of governmental and external affairs and regional president, who surprised guests by announcing an additional $50,000 contribution to support the university’s fundraising efforts and student success initiatives.
Student voices added depth and meaning to the event. Asha Moore-Smith, Kyle Nolan and Ariel Darby each delivered passionate remarks that underscored UDC’s impact on their lives and served as powerful reminders of why its mission matters.
The evening closed with a preview of UDC175 and the upcoming Founders’ Day Gala. Guests were invited to stay engaged, support scholarship opportunities and help shape the university’s next chapter as it continues to serve as a beacon of access, excellence and opportunity in the nation’s capital.