Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Phi Alpha Omega Chapter, and the Tea Rose Foundation of Northwest Arkansas present the 25th Annual Celebrity Waiter Fundraising Event. This year's event will honor Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), celebrating their significant contributions to higher education and leadership. Our Celebrity Waiters will be esteemed HBCU alumni and leaders, making this a night to remember.

Our 2024 honoree, Esther Silver-Parker, President and CEO of The SilverParker Group, has dedicated her career to transforming corporate cultures and advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion. Formerly a Senior Vice President at Walmart, she pioneered the company’s first diversity strategy, expanding female and minority leadership by 75% and boosting supplier diversity by $7 billion. With over 28 years at AT&T and extensive experience in corporate social responsibility, she’s an influential leader and trusted advisor. A graduate of Columbia University and North Carolina Central University, Esther also finds joy in her family and is an active member of her community in Northwest Arkansas.

We are thrilled to feature Spelman College alumna and renowned singer Avery*Sunshine as our special entertainer for the evening. Her powerful vocals and soulful performance will elevate this unforgettable celebration of HBCU excellence.

Entertainment will also include regional favorite The Rodney Block Collective. Jaclyn House of KNWA Fox24 and Dr. Chris Jones, Former Arkansas Gubernatorial Candidate, will serve as the emcees.

Join the fun, support your favorite waiter, bid in the silent and live auctions, and help us reach our fundraising goal! Proceeds will support scholarships for deserving students and community service programs, including health awareness, poverty, and social justice initiatives.

Attire: Formal