About The MEAC | 5/21/2026 2:07:24 PM

NORFOLK, Va. -- The MEAC Foundation is proud to announce longtime corporate partner The Coca-Cola Company as the Legacy Sponsor of the inaugural MEAC Foundation Sneaker Ball, to be held Friday, May 22, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at The Westin Virginia Beach Town Center. Supporters of HBCU excellence are cordially invited to attend this distinguished evening of recognition and celebration. 

Nationally recognized journalist Steve Wyche will serve as host for the evening, with Grammy-nominated recording artist Montell Jordan featured as the headline performer. 

"I am profoundly grateful to have The Coca-Cola Company serve as the Legacy Sponsor for the Sneaker Ball. For the vast majority of the MEAC's existence, The Coca-Cola Company has stood alongside the Conference as a steadfast and generous partner, championing not only our member institutions but the broader mission of HBCUs across the nation. Their unwavering support across the decades is a true reflection of shared values, and we are deeply honored to continue this remarkable partnership," said Sonja Stills, Commissioner of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference. 

During the program, the MEAC Foundation will present the prestigious Talmadge Layman Hill Men's All-Sports Award and the Mary McLeod Bethune Women's All-Sports Award to the conference's top-performing men's and women's athletic programs and will recognize institutions earning the Highest Graduation Success Rate and Academic Performance Rate honors. The Foundation will also honor five distinguished women as "Guardians of the Game" for their leadership and enduring contributions to athletics and student-athletes. 

"We are proud to support MEAC and the inaugural Sneaker Ball, an event that celebrates not only athletic and academic achievement, but also the leadership and impact of student-athletes. At The Coca-Cola Company, we remain committed to uplifting student voices and investing in their growth and success, " said Felicia Hale, Vice President, System Marketing, Stewardship and Execution?, The Coca-Cola Company. 

Proceeds from the event will directly benefit the MEAC Foundation and its Elite Eight member institutions, supporting scholarships, leadership development, and resources for the next generation of student-athletes. Attendees are invited to be part of this meaningful occasion in support of HBCU athletic excellence. 

Ticket Information: Individual Tickets: $300 Table of 8: $2,400 

Tickets may be purchased via Eventbrite. 

For additional information or inquiries please contact: Cesley Tafoya Associate Commissioner for Development & Partnership Strategy Email: tafoyac@themeac.com (for all other donation or business inquiries) .

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