The Richmond Chapter of the Continental Societies honored Virginia Union University at its annual “Elegance in Black and White” dinner-dance on last Friday that drew more than 250 people.

The university was recognized for its new “VUU is RVA” program that awarded full four-year scholarships to 50 ninth-graders at Richmond high schools. The awards are valued at $108,000 per student, VUU has said.

The award presentation to VUU President Hakim J. Lucas was among the highlights of the Continental’s annual affair that raises money for the chapter’s educational programs.

Corey Stuckey, a scholar-athlete and band musician at George Wythe High School, was the keynote speaker, while Richmond Mayor Levar M. Stoney and 7th District Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger brought greetings.

The Richmond chapter, led by President Nkechi George-Winkler, was chartered in 1976 and focuses on serving schoolchildren. The chapter provides new winter coats to students in need, mentors and tutors students at various schools and promotes environmental education, among its activities.

“We’re involved in so many programs,” said Beverly Davis, chair of the chapter’s Ways and Means Committee, which staged the holiday affair.