Texas Southern University Foundation will welcome supporters, alumni and community leaders to its signature fundraising gala, the 2026 Tiger Ball, on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at the Hilton Americas-Houston in downtown Houston.

Hosted by the Foundation’s Board of Trustees, the black-tie event serves as the premier fundraising initiative benefiting Texas Southern University. Proceeds from the evening support student scholarships and innovative academic programming designed to strengthen student success and expand educational access.

The 2025 gala generated more than $1 million in scholarship funding, underscoring the event’s role in providing critical financial assistance to students. Organizers aim to build on that momentum in 2026 as many students continue to rely on scholarships to navigate rising higher education costs and broader economic uncertainty.

Beyond fundraising, the Tiger Ball highlights student achievement and the university’s continued institutional growth. A focal point of the evening will be the Tiger Promise, Texas Southern University’s tuition guarantee initiative created to reduce financial barriers for Texas families. The program provides assistance to eligible in-state students, including those from households earning under $125,000 annually. It supports qualifying first-time freshmen and transfer students who meet priority application and FAFSA deadlines.

Attendees can expect a formal evening that blends philanthropy with celebration. The program will feature a performance by the university’s internationally recognized Ocean of Soul Marching Band, along with additional entertainment to be announced.

As one of Houston’s largest historically Black universities, Texas Southern University plays a significant role in preparing students for careers across law, business, education, public service and the sciences. Foundation leaders say the annual gala is designed not only to raise funds, but also to reinforce community partnerships that invest directly in student achievement and long-term institutional strength.

More information about tickets, sponsorship opportunities and event details is available here.