The Fifth Annual Legacy Ball Raises Funds for the Future

Guests at the fifth annual Legacy Ball ascended the grand staircase of the Schermerhorn Symphony Center for an evening that celebrated philanthropy and raised funds for the R.H. Boyd Family Endowment Fund, which supports education and community initiatives. Event planner Amos Gott of Amos Events transformed the venue with his signature peach palette, creating a warm contrast against the Schermerhorn’s neutral interior.

Co-chairs Tracy and Don Hardin and Gail Carr Williams greeted guests before everyone moved into the concert hall for dinner. The Clean Plate Club served a delicious chicken entrée, and the Legacy Jazz Trio provided the evening’s soundtrack, playing familiar tunes as guests enjoyed conversation with their tablemates. Renowned artist James Threalkill created a live painting of the event — which guests could bid on during the auction later that night.

Each year, the evening celebrates those whose leadership strengthens the community through service, education and opportunity. “History teaches us that progress is never inevitable. It is the result of ordinary people choosing to do something extraordinary in extraordinary times,” said LaDonna Boyd, R.H. Boyd Company president and CEO. “Tonight, let us ensure that the legacy we leave is one of courage, generosity, excellence and hope. Let us ensure that what we do is impactful.”

Her words set the tone for the evening’s highest honors. Author Alice Randall received the R.H. Boyd Storytellers Award for using her voice to shape culture through literature and music. The YWCA Nashville & Middle Tennessee accepted the R.H. Boyd Humanitarian Award for its longstanding commitment to empowering women and eliminating racism. The Nashville Public Library’s Civil Rights Room earned the R.H. Boyd Service Award for preserving and sharing the city’s civil rights history, while the Urban League of Middle Tennessee received the R.H. Boyd Excellence Award for expanding economic opportunity and advancing equity across the region.

Guests then welcomed a surprise appearance by Christianee Porter of The Christi Show, portraying her hilarious character Ms. Shirleen. Her storytelling and impeccable comedic timing filled the room with laughter, before beloved party band Bizz and Everyday People took the stage and kept the celebration going late into the evening.