The D.C. chapter of the National Black MBA Association (DC Black MBA) gathered members, partners, students, and community leaders for an inspiring evening celebrating excellence, service, and achievement at its annual Chapter Awards and Scholarship Ceremony.
The event highlighted the chapter’s ongoing commitment to advancing educational attainment, professional development, and economic empowerment within the Black community.
The central theme of the evening was intentional community engagement.
Iris Drayton-Spann, managing director of Stanton Chase and a scholarship sponsor, underscored the importance of corporate partnership and presence.
“I show up with purpose and intentionality,” Drayton-Spann shared. “It’s important to me and Stanton Chase to remain connected to the community and show up when needed for the greatest impact.”
Her words reflected the spirit of the evening, and the role corporate partners play in supporting pathways to leadership and opportunity. Her corporate partnership was further highlighted with Stanton Chase receiving Corporate Partner of the Year honors, presented to Drayton-Spann.
One of the night’s most meaningful moments came with the presentation of the President’s Award to Chante Bender, vice president of membership for the DC Black MBA chapter. The award, selected by chapter President Dr. Carletta S. Hurt, recognizes exceptional dedication and service to the organization and its members. Bender’s journey with the chapter includes being named a Raymond James Scholar in 2023 and serving on the National Conference Volunteer Leadership Team in 2024.
“It was a natural progression for her to serve on the board after displaying such outstanding leadership,” said Dr. Hurt, noting Bender’s consistent commitment to showing up for members and strengthening the chapter’s community impact.
Student achievement was also a focal point of the evening. Zainab Yahaya emerged as a double honoree, receiving both the Student Member of the Year Award and the Economic Hardship Scholarship. Yahaya was visibly surprised and expressed gratitude for the recognition, which acknowledged both her academic excellence and perseverance.
In addition to the aforementioned awards, the ceremony celebrated excellence across multiple sectors. Howard University, represented by Dr. Carson, was named Academic Partner of the Year; Paris Henderson received the Community Service Award for outstanding dedication to service; Microsoft – BAM was honored as Collaborative Partner of the Year for its strategic engagement with the chapter; entrepreneurial leadership was recognized through the Entrepreneur of the Year Award, presented to Nicole McDonald; and Islindy Merius received the Distinguished Service Award for sustained contributions to the organization.
Monica Arrington was named Member of the Year, reflecting her consistent engagement and presence at events and activities.
“Monica was the first person that came to mind,” shared Bender. “Her smile and positive energy and a welcome edition to our events.”
Altogether, the DC Black MBA Chapter presented 10 chapter awards and awarded more than $10,000 in scholarships, uplifting its dedication and commitment to leadership, education, and economic mobility. As the chapter continues withits work, the ceremony served as both a celebration and a call to action affirming that when leaders, students, and partners come together with purpose, the impact extends far beyond a single evening.
For more information about DC Black MBA, go to www.dcblackmbaa.org.