On October 19, the 100 Black Men of the Inland Empire (100 BMIE) hosted their 8th Annual Gala at the Riverside Convention Center. Themed “Standing on the Shoulders of Legends,” the elegant event celebrated excellence, mentorship, and community impact.
As proud gala sponsors, the Riverside Community College District (RCCD) and its colleges — Riverside City College (RCC), Norco College, and Moreno Valley College — were honored to continue their partnership with 100 BMIE. In 2023, 100 BMIE established the RCCD Umoja Scholarship Fund, led by Marie Thermidor, Community Relations Specialist for the RCCD Foundation. This fund provides $1,000 scholarships to deserving Umoja students at each RCCD college, helping them overcome financial barriers and achieve their educational goals.
During the gala, three outstanding RCCD scholarship recipients were recognized:
- Veronica Zaragoza, pursuing a degree in Administrative/Clinical Medical Assisting
- Gabriel Woods, pursuing a degree in Social Work, Human Services & Counseling Practices
- Kelby Knight, pursuing a degree in Philosophy
These students, like many others, benefit from the support of mentors and donors who share their experiences and are invested in their success.
In a powerful demonstration of continued commitment, 100 BMIE surprised RCCD with an additional $10,000 donation. This contribution will further support RCCD students and reinforce 100 BMIE’s mission of mentorship, education, and economic empowerment.
The gala and the scholarship fund are reminders to students of the importance of representation in leadership and mentorship. For students, particularly those from historically marginalized communities, seeing successful Black leaders who have overcome challenges and are now giving back is both inspiring and empowering. Leaders from 100 BMIE embody perseverance, dedication, and service, sending a message that success is not only possible but achievable within their communities.
As they continue building pathways to success for youth across the Inland Empire, 100 BMIE truly stands on the shoulders of legends — and encourages the next generation to do the same.