Programs & Events/Gala Week/Recognition Gala

ELC Recognition Gala

The ELC Recognition Gala is The ELC’s most important fundraising event, supporting our scholarships, educational outreach and philanthropic initiatives and recognizing our mission, purpose and impact in action.

Gala Week Overview

Held at the Marriott Marquis Washington, the Gala celebrates the business achievements of Black executives, corporate board directors, entrepreneurs, thought leaders and academics who support diversity and inclusion in corporate America and the UK.

2024 Theme

Unstoppable Together

Bold. Courageous. Impactful.

Unstoppable Together embodies the spirit and strength of a community united in purpose. It reflects the power of collective action, where boldness, courage, and impact are the pillars of progress and change.

Through this powerful theme, The Executive Leadership Council’s Gala Week highlights the importance of unity and collective strength in achieving bold, courageous, and impactful outcomes for individuals and communities alike.

Bold

Emphasizing the fearless approach of breaking barriers and challenging the status quo. It’s about taking audacious steps towards creating opportunities and paving the way for future generations.

Courageous

Highlighting the bravery needed to lead and innovate in today’s dynamic and often challenging landscape. It’s the willingness to embrace uncertainty and drive forward with conviction and resilience.

Impactful

Celebrating the significant and lasting contributions made by individuals and organizations. It focuses on the tangible results that come from strategic leadership, visionary thinking, and dedicated efforts to uplift communities and drive systemic change.

Program & Agenda

The 2024 ELC Recognition Gala is proudly co-sponsored by Google and The Coca-Cola Company for the next three years. Melonie Parker, Google’s Chief Diversity Officer joins President and CEO of The Executive Leadership Council, Michael C. Hyter, and Board Chair, Gale V. King, as prominent members of The ELC’s Gala Committee for 2024.

The event also recognizes corporations that demonstrate policies and practices that promote Black executives and their contributions. Awards given during the Gala include the following:

The Alvaro L. Martins Heritage Award celebrates individuals who have consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication, active participation, and exemplary leadership within our esteemed community.
The Achievement Award is presented to a Black corporate executive whose business and career achievements exhibit bold, transformative, and courageous leadership.
The Global Game Changer Award honors a transformational global leader.
The Corporate Award recognizes and celebrates companies that have exemplified the highest standards of partnership, collaboration, and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in addition to advancing the careers and sphere of influence of Black leaders within their organizations.

Order of Events

4:30 PM - 5:30 PM

Pre-Gala Networking Reception

4:30 PM - 5:30 PM

Private VIP Networking Reception

By invitation only

6:00 PM - 9:15 PM

Recognition Gala

Doors open at 5:30pm

6:00 PM - 9:30 PM

Gala Networking Lounge

Streaming access to Gala only

6:30 PM - 7:15 PM

Dinner

7:15 PM - 9:15 PM

Awards Program

9:30 PM - MIDNIGHT

Post-Gala Networking Reception

Hotel Accommodations

The Gala Week room block group rate at the Marriott Marquis will be available through September 9, 2024, or while inventory lasts. We encourage you to book your room(s) as soon as possible to take advantage of these exclusive savings.

Explore hotel options

Networking Lounge

Join us in the lounge to exchange ideas, forge new relationships, and support our shared mission of promoting diversity and inclusion in Corporate America and globally.

Learn About the Lounge