Wilder School Legacy Gala: A National Ovation to Governor Wilder

This unprecedented gala will celebrate Governor Wilder’s legacy and inaugurate a scholarship fund benefiting Wilder School students aspiring to create an impact in public service.

When: 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 20
Where: Washington Hilton, 1919 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20009
Admittance: $500

Room reservations at the Washington Hilton hotel are available to "A National Ovation to Governor Wilder" gala attendees at a discounted rate. Reservations must be made prior to Dec. 30, 2023.

Sponsorship levels

People First Advocate: $100,000

A reflection on Governor Wilder’s lifelong dedication to serving the people.

Governor Wilder speaks to a group of your choice after the event
Invitation to VIP reception for ten (10) guests of your choice
Name and logo recognition and full-page messages in the souvenir journal
Name and logo recognition in the event’s digital materials, documentary special and screening
Customized social media mentions on Wilder School media platforms
Acknowledgment from the stage during the event remarks
Three tables (30 seats) at dinner (these special guests will be seated with students from Virginia Commonwealth University, Virginia Union University and Howard University)

Advocate of Liberty and Justice: $50,000

An homage to the liberty theme of the governor’s long-standing commitment to civil rights.

Private dinner with Governor Wilder and six (6) guests of your choice after the event
Invitation to VIP reception for eight (8) guests of your choice
Name and logo recognition and half-page message in the souvenir journal
Name and logo recognition in the event’s digital materials, documentary special and screening
Customized social media mentions on Wilder School media platforms
Two tables (20 seats) at dinner

HBCU Luminary: $25,000

Celebrating the governor’s fervent advocacy for historically Black colleges and universities and his broader educational contributions.

Lunch with Governor Wilder and three (3) guests of your choice after the event
Invitation to VIP reception for six (6) guests of your choice
Name and logo recognition in the event’s digital materials
Name and logo recognition listed in the souvenir journal
Customized social media mentions on Wilder School media platforms
One table (10 seats) at dinner

Military Service: $10,000

A salute to the governor’s courageous military service.

Name and logo recognition in the event’s digital materials
Name and logo recognition listed in the souvenir journal
One table (10 seats) at dinner

Son of Virginia Pioneer: $5,000

Drawing from Governor Wilder’s biography, “Son of Virginia: A Life in America’s Political Arena,” emphasizing his Virginia roots and pioneering role as the first African-American governor.

Name and logo recognition in the event’s digital materials
Name and logo recognition listed in the souvenir journal
Half table (5 seats) at dinner

Supporter: $1,000

Name and logo recognition in the event’s digital materials
This sponsorship level does not include admittance

Questions? Contact Pam Cox, events and messaging strategist, at (804) 827-2168 or coxp3@vcu.edu.