Los Angeles, CA — March 2026
Ayanna Henderson Marketing proudly announces its return as the official full-service production partner for the UCLA Black Alumni Association’s Winston C. Doby Legacy Scholarship Dinner, one of the most distinguished and impactful events celebrating Black excellence, leadership, and legacy within the UCLA community.
Following a successful production partnership in previous years, Ayanna Henderson Marketing has been invited back to lead end-to-end creative direction, video production, and live event execution for the 2026 gala—further solidifying its reputation as a trusted production and strategic marketing partner for high-profile institutional events.
A Full-Scale Production Experience
This year, Ayanna Henderson Marketing will oversee:
- Full Event Production & Creative Direction
- Multi-Camera Video Production & Live Event Coverage
- Honoree Tribute Video Production (3–5 minute cinematic features)
- Post-Production Editing for Social, Marketing & Archival Use
- Content Strategy for Extended Digital Distribution
Each element is designed not just to capture the moment—but to extend the life of the event through powerful storytelling, digital assets, and ongoing audience engagement.
“We don’t just produce events—we build ecosystems around them. Every moment captured becomes a long-term brand asset,” says Ayanna Henderson, Founder & CEO.
Featured Program Highlights
The 2026 gala will feature an unforgettable lineup of influential voices and cultural icons:
Hosted by Chris Spencer
Comedian, writer, and producer Chris Spencer brings his signature energy, wit, and cultural insight to the stage as host—guiding the evening with humor, authenticity, and connection.
Keynote Address by Mayor Karen Bass
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass will deliver the evening’s keynote, offering powerful reflections on leadership, equity, and the continued importance of investing in future generations through education and opportunity.
Special Surprise Appearance by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
In a powerful and unexpected moment, NBA legend, activist, and UCLA icon Kareem Abdul-Jabbar will make a special appearance—honoring the legacy of excellence and impact that defines both UCLA and the Black alumni community.
Honoree Tribute Video Production
A signature component of this year’s production includes the creation of cinematic tribute videos honoring distinguished leaders whose impact reflects the mission and legacy of UCLA’s Black alumni community.
Each honoree participates in a professionally produced interview, paired with archival visuals, storytelling, and editorial direction to create emotionally compelling and legacy-driven narratives.
2026 Honorees
Tash Gray
A visionary leader and advocate, Tash Gray has made a lasting impact through her work in community engagement and leadership development. Her commitment to empowering the next generation reflects a deep dedication to service, mentorship, and representation.
Cheryl Lott
Cheryl Lott is recognized for her exceptional contributions to education and community advancement. Her leadership has opened doors for countless individuals, creating pathways for academic and professional success within underserved communities.
Mandla Kayise
A global voice for innovation and cultural connection, Mandla Kayise’s work spans across industries, bringing a unique perspective to leadership, storytelling, and international collaboration.
Dr. Yolanda Gorman
Dr. Yolanda Gorman is a respected leader in health and wellness, known for her dedication to advancing equitable care and empowering communities through education, advocacy, and service.
The Elegant Bruinettes (UCLA Majorette Dance Team)
An iconic symbol of pride and performance, The Elegant Bruinettes represent tradition, excellence, and cultural expression at UCLA. Their presence continues to inspire generations through artistry, discipline, and legacy.
Honoring the Legacy of Winston C. Doby
The scholarship dinner is named in honor of Winston C. Doby, a pioneering leader whose work laid the foundation for Black student success at UCLA.
As the founding director of UCLA’s Black Student Services (now the Academic Advancement Program - AAP), Doby was instrumental in creating access, opportunity, and support systems for underrepresented students during a critical time in the university’s history.
His legacy is rooted in:
- Expanding educational access
- Championing equity and inclusion
- Building institutional support for Black student achievement
Today, the Winston C. Doby Legacy Scholarship continues that mission—providing financial support and resources to students who carry forward his vision of excellence and community impact.
Beyond the Event: A Long-Term Content Strategy
Unlike traditional event production, Ayanna Henderson Marketing approaches each project with a strategic content ecosystem mindset.
The honoree videos and event coverage will be repurposed into:
- Social media campaigns
- Website and donor engagement content
- Institutional marketing assets
- Alumni storytelling initiatives
- Future promotional materials for UCLA and UBAA
This ensures that the impact of the event extends far beyond a single evening—transforming it into a scalable, digital-first storytelling platform.
A Continued Partnership Built on Trust & Excellence
Being invited back to produce this prestigious event reflects not only the quality of execution—but the strategic value Ayanna Henderson Marketing brings to every partnership.
With a foundation rooted in storytelling, production excellence, and marketing intelligence, the agency continues to bridge the gap between live experiences and digital growth.
About Ayanna Henderson Marketing
Ayanna Henderson Marketing is a full-service strategic marketing and production agency specializing in content strategy, digital growth systems, and high-level video production.
From live event production to multi-platform content ecosystems, the agency partners with brands, institutions, and public figures to create scalable, revenue-driven marketing solutions.
Strategy. Story. Scale. Intelligence.