Downtown Atlanta came alive with style, sophistication, and service as thousands of Black professionals gathered for the 14th annual Sundresses & Seersuckers event. Full of Black excellence, the four-day celebration, held June 5–8, wasn’t just a party—it was a powerful fundraiser supporting mentorship, education, and youth empowerment through Commitment to Excellence, Inc. (CTE), a nonprofit founded by the Delta Mu Mu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
Now in its 14th year, the event is organized annually by CTE as its signature fundraising initiative. It attracted over 15,000 attendees from across the country and continued its legacy as the go-to summer experience for those who value culture, connection, and purpose.
A Celebration With Purpose
Sundresses & Seersuckers is more than a series of social events—it’s the primary fundraiser for Commitment to Excellence, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit rooted in the belief that community celebration can spark real change. Since its founding, CTE has awarded over $500,000 in college scholarships to deserving students—culminating in its largest single award of $85,000 in 2024. These milestones are fueled by the energy and engagement of weekends like this.
At the heart of CTE’s programming is the Black Rhinos Mentoring Program, launched in 2009 to help young Black males overcome academic, social, and community challenges. The program has served over 1,000 young men, and currently mentors 100 students across Metro Atlanta, offering leadership development, entrepreneurial training, community service involvement, and annual HBCU college tours.
Weekend Highlights
Thursday, June 5 – Meet & Greet @ Suite Lounge
Attendees kicked off the weekend with an upscale mixer, setting the stage for networking, connection, and shared purpose.
Friday, June 6 – The Marketplace, The PreVue & The PreQuel
The Hyatt Regency hosted a full day of The Marketplace, a curated showcase of Black-owned businesses and brands. Later, the PreVue brought out crowds for midday networking and cocktails, while the evening’s PreQuel delivered premium fashion, music, and classic Sundresses & Seersuckers flair at Southern Exchange.
Saturday, June 7 – Panels, Main Event & AfterGroove
Saturday offered moments of both inspiration and celebration. The Ask The Divine 9 Doctors Panel featured health-focused conversations with D9-affiliated medical professionals, while the Main Event at Home Depot Backyard dazzled with thousands in attendance donning their finest summer fits. The night continued with the AfterGroove, a high-energy after-party at the Hyatt Regency.
Sunday, June 8 – Day Party @ Suite Lounge
The weekend closed with a stylish Day Party, where attendees reflected on a weekend full of memories—and meaningful impact.
More Than a Moment—A Movement
From photo-ready moments to philanthropic milestones, Sundresses & Seersuckers once again proved that celebration and purpose can coexist beautifully. As Commitment to Excellence continues to grow its impact, events like these remind us that the power of community, style, and service can change lives.
To learn more about Commitment to Excellence, Inc., the Black Rhinos Mentoring Program, or how to support their ongoing work, visit https://cteinc.org.
