Malcomb Coley to be honored at UNCF Charlotte Mayor's Masked Ball

The 12th annual UNCF Charlotte Mayor's Masked Ball takes place this weekend and will honor Charlotte executive Malcomb Coley while raising funds for HBCU students.

The 12th annual UNCF Charlotte Mayor's Masked Ball takes place this weekend and will raise money for students at historically Black colleges and universities while honoring community leaders, including Malcomb Coley. Coley grew up in public housing in rural eastern North Carolina and says education shaped the direction of his life. His mother encouraged him and his siblings to pursue higher education despite not attending college herself. Coley earned two degrees from the University of North Carolina Wilmington and later served as an executive at Ernst & Young, on several boards, and as a college trustee. Key details: - The event is the 12th annual UNCF Charlotte Mayor's Masked Ball and is reported as a fundraiser for HBCU students. - Malcomb Coley grew up in public housing in eastern North Carolina and credits education and his mother's encouragement for his path. - Coley earned two degrees from UNC Wilmington and held leadership roles at Ernst & Young, served on boards, and established college scholarships. - He recently retired and now leads Ron Leeper Construction Company, which became part of Bright Hope Capital and was reported in 2022 as the largest Black-owned company in Charlotte. - Projects associated with the company include work at Charlotte Douglas International Airport, the Charlotte Rescue Mission, The Pearl innovation district, and the Hornets' new practice facility. - Coley emphasizes the importance of presence and access in decision-making and has said he hopes his story offers hope to the next generation. Summary: The event will both raise funds for HBCU students and publicly recognize Coley's career and community involvement. He is scheduled to accept the honor at the ball this weekend. Coley has said that organizations like the UNCF help expand access to higher education.