A Night of Elegance: Lincoln University Hosts Masked Ball During 100th Homecoming Celebration
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Lincoln University of Missouri welcomed alumni, faculty, staff and the community to celebrate student scholarships at the 2025 Masked Ball.
Lincoln University of Missouri hosted its annual Masked Ball on Friday, Oct. 31, 2025, at Jason Hall as part of the university’s 100th Homecoming celebration. The event combined elegance and philanthropy, raising funds for the Lincoln University Student Scholarship Fund. View the full event recording below.
The evening began with a reception and silent auction at 5:30 p.m., followed by a formal dinner at 7 p.m. Guests arrived in masquerade-themed attire for a night that balanced festivity with purpose.
Actor and writer Jonathan Slocumb served as master of ceremonies, opening the event with humor and warmth.
Student Government Association leaders offered the official student welcome. SGA President Jesse Canamore, a senior political science major from St. Louis, spoke about the importance of alumni generosity in empowering current students. SGA Vice President Kenya Johnson of Kansas City thanked attendees for supporting the university’s mission. Jamir Hunt, the 23rd Mr. Lincoln University and a senior agriculture business major from Omaha, Nebraska, welcomed guests back for Homecoming and expressed gratitude for their continued support.
Jefferson City Mayor Ron Fitzwater praised Lincoln University’s growth and community partnerships. Tina Shannon, secretary of the Lincoln University Board of Curators, reflected on the 100-year Homecoming milestone and the university’s ongoing legacy of education, opportunity and service.
The invocation was delivered by the Rev. Dr. Ayanna L. Shivers, associate professor of counseling education, who offered prayers of gratitude for the university’s 159 years of impact and the donors who make student success possible.
Entertainment during dinner featured vocalist Tiff Sings and violinist Belle Darus. Members of the Lincoln University men’s soccer team, ranked 15th nationally, served guests and were honored during the event.
The Lincoln University men's soccer team.
Lincoln University President Dr. John B. Moseley delivered the keynote address, recognizing the Advancement Office led by Dr. Grant Winrow, as well as volunteers and staff for organizing the gala.
President John Mosley greets guests at the Masked Ball.
Moseley highlighted university progress, including 2,256 students enrolled—the highest since 2019—representation from 47 countries, an average GPA of 3.01, a record number of Dean’s List honorees and a 64.4% freshman retention rate.
He also noted major capital improvements, including a new $45.5 million nursing building, renovated facilities and new dining and research projects. Moseley reaffirmed the university’s goal to reward high-achieving students and called on attendees to contribute to the Student Scholarship Fund. The event aimed to raise $100,000 in scholarship support.
The 2025 Masked Ball marked the inaugural Sapphire Awards, which recognized distinguished alumni and community members whose service reflects the university’s mission of excellence and leadership.
Honorees included Cheryl Branch Maxwell, Victor B. Paisley, Mark Schleer, Dr. Marjorie Williams, Coach Dwight T. Reed (posthumous) and Joe Torry.
President John Moseley and Sapphire Award recipient Joe Torry.
Attendees enjoyed a lively evening of music, fellowship and celebration in elegant masks and formal attire as part of Lincoln University’s centennial Homecoming festivities.
All proceeds from the Masked Ball benefited the Student Scholarship Fund, supporting Lincoln University students in pursuit of higher education. Contributions continue to be accepted to advance the university’s mission of access, opportunity and excellence.
Even for those unable to attend, contributions can still be made to help advance Lincoln’s mission of access, opportunity and excellence. Click here to donate to Lincoln University.