2026 Urban League of Greater Hartford - Annual Equal Opportunity Day Gala

The Equal Opportunity Day Celebration (EOD) is Urban League of Greater Hartford’s signature fundraising event
About this Event

Welcome to the 2026 Urban League of Greater Hartford - Annual Equal Opportunity Day Gala! Join us at the Hartford Marriott Downtown on December 10, 2026 at 6:00 PM (Eastern Time) for an evening of celebration and empowerment.

David Griggs, Chief Executive Officer of MetroHartford Alliance, is this year's Honorary Chair, and Connecticut Public NPR Anchor John Henry Smith, returns as emcee. DJ Drake will provide the entertainment.

The 2026 Awardees:

• Business Excellence – Michael Weinstock, Regional President, M&T Bank
• Community Champion – Dr. Paul Dworkin, Retired EVP, Connecticut Childrens
• Civic Impact – Shelly Carter, Fire Chief, City of Hamden
• Cultural Heritage – Yolande Spears, Chief Impact Officer, The Bushnell
• Leadership & Service – Ann Smith, Executive Director, AFCAMP
• Young Professional – Connor Martin, Mayor, East Hartford

Agenda

🕑: 06:00 PM - 07:00 AM
Reception
🕑: 07:00 PM - 07:20 PM
Welcome and Dignitary Remarks
Host: John Henry Smith
🕑: 07:20 PM - 07:45 PM
Dinner
Host: Hartford Marriott Downtown
🕑: 07:45 PM - 08:30 PM
Awards Program
🕑: 08:30 PM - 08:45 PM
Closing Remarks
🕑: 08:45 PM - 09:30 PM
Dance Party
Host: DJ Drake