The Academy for Scholastic and Personal Success hosts 15th annual gala benefit on May 12

The Academy for Scholastic and Personal Success will host its 15th annual gala benefit on May 12 at the Olympic Southside Theater, 1202 Third St. SE, Cedar Rapids. The event begins at 5:30 p.m. and includes food and drink, a silent auction, and live music and entertainment. Tickets are $60; donations of any amount also are welcome and will go toward supporting the work of the academy. More information is at https://www.theacademysps.com/15th-annual-gala/

The event will celebrate the legacy and influence of artists, authors, chefs, musicians, dancers and activists from the Harlem Renaissance. Instead of a traditional sit-down dinner and program, this event will feel more like a cocktail party. Guests will be able to mingle throughout the evening and enjoy an immersive Harlem Renaissance experience. There will be small plate party bites created by Chef Crystal Bounds-Howard (Academy alumna), art by Harlem Renaissance artists, live jazz, and signature cocktails at the cash bar. The program will be broken into three short segments featuring music, dance, and spoken word as well as presentations by Academy students.

The academy’s mission is to instill pride in and understanding of African American culture as a tool to encourage academic achievement and positive behaviors, toward postsecondary matriculation and productive citizenship.