Claflin University to Host 18th Annual First Lady’s Hats and Gloves Scholarship Tea

The 18th annual First Lady’s Hats and Gloves Scholarship Tea will be held on Saturday, March 21st, 12 noon, at the Claflin University Student Center in Orangeburg, S.C. Join Claflin First Lady LaKisha Warmack for what has become a highly anticipated event for alumni and other supporters throughout the Midlands region of South Carolina and beyond. The First Lady’s Hats and Gloves Scholarship Tea will celebrate Women’s History Month and this year’s national theme, “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future.”

Six phenomenal women will be recognized for their outstanding contributions, leadership, and impactful innovation across various fields.  This year’s honorees are: Mary Elam, Chief Operations Officer and Manager of Account Services for EFinancial Advisors; Barbara Johnson- Williams, Educator and President of the Orangeburg Branch of the NAACP; Benita Lefft, President and Chief Operations Officer of Optus Bank; Dr. Tonya Matthews, President and CEO of the International African American Museum; Nicole Nelson Jean, Associate Administrator in the Office of Infrastructure in the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA); and Dr. Jennifer Clyburn Reed, Federal Co-chair of the Southeast Crescent Regional Commission.  WIS TV10 Columbia news anchor Billie Jean Shaw will be the Mistress of Ceremonies.

The event will feature a wide array of flavored teas, a delicious brunch, live entertainment, and a scholarship presentation to several high-achieving Claflin scholars.  Guests will have an opportunity to display their “Hat-ti-tude” and win prizes during the “Best Hats Contest,” which has become one of the highlights of the event.

For tickets, sponsorships, or vendor information, visit Click Here or call 803-535-5357.