For Atlanta native Mayor Andre Dickens, the heartbeat of the city isn’t just something you hear, it’s something you feel in every neighborhood, every event, and every initiative that drives change. As he prepares to host the annual UNCF Mayor’s Ball at the new Signia Hotel, Mayor Dickens reflects on how much the city has grown, how deeply he’s committed to its future, and how excited he is to lead the way forward.
“Last year, we broke records with $4 million raised at the ball,” Dickens shares, pride in his voice. “That’s more than double what any other city has done.” This year, he’s aiming even higher. Beyond the glitz and glamor, the Mayor’s Ball is about Atlanta’s future, the scholarships, opportunities, and pathways that empower the city’s youth to achieve their dreams. For Dickens, the ball represents more than a fundraiser; it celebrates Atlanta’s promise and the community’s commitment to education and equity.
Since taking office, Dickens has been relentlessly addressing the city’s most pressing issues with the precision and dedication of someone who knows Atlanta to his core. He’s tackled complex challenges head-on, focusing on reducing crime, creating affordable housing, and boosting Atlanta’s economic growth—all while preserving the community spirit that makes this city unique. In just two years, violent crime and youth violence have dropped significantly. “We’re seeing a 30% reduction in homicides,” he notes, “which means our families are safer, and our youth are getting a chance to grow up in a city that supports them.”
Perhaps most inspiring is Dickens’ drive to ensure that every Atlantan has a place to call home. Under his leadership, the city has made unprecedented strides in affordable housing, building 10,000 units for low- and moderate-income families. “It’s not just about numbers; it’s about people,” he explains. “We’re building mixed-income communities that give everyone a fair shot, right here in Atlanta.” His efforts have earned the city its first-ever triple-A bond rating, a testament to his commitment to effective, accountable governance.
But Dickens isn’t just a policy-maker; he’s a connector. As the first Atlanta mayor to chair the Atlanta Regional Commission, he’s bringing together leaders from across the 11-county area to work on shared goals like transportation, job growth, and preparations for marquee events, including the upcoming World Cup and Super Bowl. “Atlanta isn’t just a city—it’s a movement,” he says, envisioning a future where smooth roads, high-paying jobs, and thriving small businesses shape daily life for all Atlantans.
When the holidays roll around, Dickens embraces his role not just as mayor, but as a friend, father, and true Atlantan. He spends the season reconnecting with old friends and family, sharing meals (his smoked turkey collard greens are a staple), and catching up with high school buddies who’ve moved away. And for the holiday season, he’ll be putting together an Atlanta-inspired R&B playlist “smooth tunes with a little holiday spirit” that captures the city’s rich musical legacy.
Looking ahead, Dickens has a hopeful message for Atlanta: “The future is bright, and faith is what you make it. For those hoping for a fresh start, a new opportunity, or a season of blessings, remember that every day holds promise.”
In a city renowned for its resilience, creativity, and community, Andre Dickens is leading with both head and heart. With his vision and energy, he’s ensuring Atlanta isn’t just moving forward—it’s thriving, one neighborhood, one celebration, one new opportunity at a time.
"We are truly honored to have Mayor Dickens uphold the longstanding tradition of mayors hosting the Atlanta Mayor’s Masked Ball. This year commemorates our 80th anniversary, UNCF has fueled HBCUs with vital resources to educate generations of African American and other minority students,” said Dr. Michael L. Lomax, president and CEO of UNCF.
Billboard's Top Adult R&B Male Artist Charlie Wilson Set to Dazzle at the 41st Annual UNCF Atlanta Mayor's Masked Ball
Through events like this, UNCF—now in its 80th year—is changing the HBCU narrative across the nation by helping more students of color get to and through college. As the closing event of a yearlong 80th anniversary celebration, UNCF (United Negro College Fund) will host its 41st Annual Atlanta Mayor’s Masked Ball on Saturday, Dec. 21, 2024, at the Signia Hotel by Hilton. Established in 1983 by Billye Suber Aaron and Ambassador Andrew Young, the annual UNCF Atlanta Mayor’s Masked Ball has become Atlanta's premier holiday season social gathering, bringing together the city's elite. UNCF Atlanta is thrilled to announce an extraordinary highlight for our 41st Annual Mayor’s Masked Ball with the addition of music legend Charlie Wilson. "Icon" barely captures the impact of this powerhouse, who rose to fame as the founding member and lead vocalist of the GAP Band.
Celebrated for his lifelong contributions to music, he has received accolades like the BET Lifetime Achievement Award, the Soul Train Icon Award, the Soul Train Certified Soul Award, and the NAACP Music Makes a Difference Award. In addition, Wilson was honored with a star on the Black Music & Entertainment Walk of Fame in 2022. Justine Boyd, UNCF assistant vice president, expressed her heartfelt appreciation. "We are truly honored to have Mayor Dickens uphold the longstanding tradition of mayors hosting the Atlanta Mayor’s Masked Ball. This year commemorates our 80th anniversary, UNCF has fueled HBCUs with vital resources to educate generations of African American and other minority students,” said Dr. Michael L. Lomax, president and CEO of UNCF. Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, the 61st mayor of Atlanta, will be hosting this momentous event. Over 1,900 corporate partners, educators, religious leaders, and community influencers are expected to attend. The Mayor’s Masked Ball adds a touch of glamour and elegance to Atlanta's cultural calendar, with attendees donning elaborate masks and formal attire. This is a cherished and iconic event that contributes significantly to the cultural tapestry of Atlanta, embodying the city's spirit of giving, diversity, and unity. Title Sponsor Norfolk Southern, Founding Sponsor The Coca-Cola Company, and Presenting Sponsors Chick-fil-A, Delta Air Lines, Google, NIKE, INC., Target, and UPS. The Billye Suber Aaron Masked Award Honoree is Nicole “Nikki” Clifton, President of Social Impact at the UPS Foundation, for her steadfast commitment to education and unwavering support of UNCF. With the help of the Atlanta community, we raised $3 million last year in scholarships and programs benefiting students attending UNCF-member HBCUs including Clark Atlanta University, Spelman College, Morehouse College, The Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC), and Paine College.
For more information and sponsorship opportunities, contact the Atlanta office at 404- 302-8623. Unable to attend but want to make a difference in a student’s life? To stay connected to UNCF throughout the year, please visit UNCF.org/events. You can also follow this event on social media @UNCFAtlanta #UNCFturns80 #UNCFMayorsBallATL24 #UNCF.