nsoro Educational Foundation hosted its 20th Anniversary Starfish Ball at St. Regis Atlanta. This milestone event was an unforgettable evening convening a powerhouse of corporate visionaries, global dignitaries, and philanthropic champions united with one mission: to empower youth aging out of foster care and give them the tools they need to achieve higher education and gainful employment!

Proceeds are going to fund nsoro’s holistic program, Fostering Futures, providing gap tuition, executive level coaching, mentorship and essential wraparound services, stabilizing scholar housing, ensuring food security for remarkable young adults, aging out of foster care as they embark on their journey to independence.

This year’s honorees were Jeff Sprecher, Founder, Chair, and CEO of Intercontinental Exchange (ICE), and Cynthia “Cynt” Marshall, trailblazing CEO of the Dallas Mavericks. Their unwavering dedication to advancing social equity, fueling education, and creating transformative opportunities for underserved communities has left an indelible mark, inspiring change, and empowerment at every turn, the organization said.

The Starfish Ball aimed to immerse guests in an evening of elegance and celebration, honoring its cherished Mardi Gras theme with live entertainment by nsoro’s Class of 2024-25 and exclusive, curated auction experiences.

More than just a gala, the Starfish Ball serves as a powerful call to action for those who believe in the transformative power of education to break the cycle of poverty and give promising youth the opportunity to redefine their futures.

“As we celebrate 20 years of nsoro’s impact, I am humbled by the power of community,” said founder and chair Darrell Mays. “Together, we have ensured over 470 scholars have not just access to education but also the tools to thrive. This year, we honor the legacy of our work, but more importantly, we look forward to the next 20 years of transforming lives.”

Executive Director, Monica Pantoja, emphasized the foundation’s expanded vision for the future: “As nsoro enters its third decade, our commitment remains laser-focused on driving equitable outcomes,” she said. “We are more than an educational lifeline; we are a village of unwavering support in the absence of stable families and social capital. With the support of partners like Jeff and Cynt, and the many corporate sponsors, loyal Starfish patrons, community partners, and the greatest army of volunteers east of the Mississippi, we can continue bridging the gap and building a brighter future for thousands of our young people.”