Soulful music, heartfelt tributes and a sea of formal gowns filled the Marriott St. Louis Grand ballroom Saturday night as the local Urban League celebrated its 21st annual Salute to Women in Leadership Gala, honoring women whose achievements reflect the organization’s mission of empowering communities and changing lives.
“This event was created to highlight the unwavering dedication of women who consistently stand as pillars of progress,” said Michael P. McMillian, president and CEO of the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis. “We have these 13 amazing women that we want to pay tribute to, and we are incredibly grateful to each and every one of them.”
The honorees represented a wide range of fields — civic leadership, education, business, philanthropy, corporate work, public service and the arts. Two legendary entertainers added star power to the evening. There was Pam Grier, the iconic actress and original Foxy Brown, who was unable to attend, and Evelyn “Champagne” King, the R&B powerhouse whose music defined an era. Both were honored with Lifetime Achievement Awards.
Nearly five decades after her breakout hit “Shame” put her on the map at just 17 years old, King continues to dazzle audiences. She expressed gratitude for the honor.
“Glory be to God, I am blessed to be here,” King told the audience that packed the massive ballroom. “I started this journey when I was just 5 years old. My father used to take me to the historic Apollo Theater, where I would practice my dance moves. I’d roll my belly just to let him know I could dance.”
King quickly ascended from South Philly teenager to international R&B star when she was discovered at Sigma Studio at age 15. Her debut album “Smooth Talk” dropped in 1977, and its lead single, “Shame,” catapulted her into stardom. Surviving the decline of disco, she delivered timeless hits like “I’m in Love” and “Love Come Down.”
Other honorees included 2025 Guild Member of the Year Dr. Juanita Chambers, 2025 UL Woman of the Year Alicia A. Bams and 2025 UL CEO of the Year Judy Reese Morse.
“This event was created to highlight the unwavering dedication of women who consistently stand as pillars of progress.”
Michael P. McMillan, Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis President and CEO
The Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis has a history as rich as the women it honored. Founded in 1918 — just eight years after the establishment of the National Urban League — the St. Louis chapter was born out of crisis. Following the East St. Louis race massacre the year before, a group of Black and white residents came together to help African Americans rebuild.
More than a century later, the local affiliate is the largest in the country and the first to receive a five-star rating, continuing its commitment to economic empowerment and social justice.
The evening’s atmosphere was equal parts elegance, prestige and gratitude.
“Tonight’s celebration stands as a tribute to the extraordinary women whose resilience, dedication and visionary leadership have left an indelible mark on our community,” said Marc Morial, president and CEO of the National Urban League.
The celebration culminated with music. R&B group After 7, which includes St. Louis’ own Wil Robinson, filled the ballroom with smooth harmonies and timeless hits. “Ready or Not,” “Nights Like This” and “I Care About You” compelled guests to sway and sing along. Some even danced themselves right out of their seats.
King delivered a powerful rendition of Sam Cooke’s “A Change Is Gonna Come.” She then instantly lifted the entire ballroom with her own classic, “Shame.” Her performance lit up the stage and sent guests home on a high note.