ELC Recognition Gala

The ELC Recognition Gala is The ELC’s most important fundraising event, supporting our scholarships, educational outreach and philanthropic initiatives and recognizing our mission, purpose and impact in action.

Corporate Executives at The ELC 2025 Gala

date

October 2, 2025

location

Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center

Point of contact

Mayra Espinoza

Email: elcgala@elcinfo.com

Overview

The ELC Recognition Gala is The ELC’s most important fundraising event, supporting our scholarships, educational outreach and philanthropic initiatives and recognizing our mission, purpose and impact in action.

Held at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center, the Gala celebrates the business achievements of executives, corporate board directors, entrepreneurs, thought leaders and academics who support inclusive leadership in corporate America and the UK.

For more information, contact email elcgala@elcinfo.com.

2025 Theme 

Relentless. Rising. Resilient.
 
Rooted in the truth that transformation doesn’t happen once but demands constant, collective effort, this theme embodies the relentless pursuit of progress that refuses to accept equity as exceptional.
 

Event Details

The 2025 ELC Recognition Gala is proudly co-sponsored by Google and The Coca-Cola Company for the next two years. Melonie Parker, Vice-President of Googler Engagement joins President and CEO of The Executive Leadership Council, Michael C. Hyter, and Board Chair, Shelley Stewart Jr., as prominent members of The ELC’s Gala Committee for 2025.

The event also recognizes corporations that demonstrate policies and practices that promote executives and their contributions. Awards given during the Gala include the following:

  • The Alvaro L. Martins Heritage Award celebrates individuals who have consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication, active participation, and exemplary leadership within our esteemed community.
  • The Achievement Award is presented to a corporate executive whose business and career achievements exhibit bold, transformative, and courageous leadership.
  • The Corporate Award recognizes and celebrates companies that have exemplified the highest standards of partnership, collaboration, and commitment to advancing the careers and sphere of influence of corporate leaders within their organizations.

Quick Links 

Table Management Portal

HONOREES

2025 Gala Week Honorees

Ronald C. Parker

Alvaro L. Martins Award
The ELC will posthumously present Ronald C. Parker with the 2025 Alvaro L. Martins Heritage Award

Announcing Soon

Achievement Award
Stay Tuned for Updates

Announcing Soon

Corporate Award
Stay Tuned for Updates

Thursday October 2, 2025

5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Pre-Gala Networking Reception
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Private VIP Networking Reception, by invitation only
6:30 pm - 9:15 pm
Recognition Gala

Doors open at 6:00pm

6:45 pm - 7:45 pm
Dinner
7:45 pm - 9:15 pm
Awards Program
9:30 pm - Midnight
Post-Gala Networking Reception
sponsors

The ELC applauds the commitment and support of the 2025 Recognition Gala sponsors:

Co-Lead Sponsors
Gold Sponsors
Private VIP Pre-Gala Networking Sponsor
Pre-Gala Networking Reception Sponsor
Post-Gala Networking Reception Sponsor
Post-Gala Entertainment Sponsor
FAQS

Frequently Asked Questions

Gala tables are currently sold out, and the waiting list is closed due to high demand. If the waiting list reopens, tables will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Note that submitting a waitlist request does not guarantee access.

You can select your pre-paid Gala table(s) starting on February 15. Access to the selection platform will be granted to companies that have submitted full payment. If you make your payment after February 15, you will receive access within five (5) business days after we verify your payment submission.

Individual tickets are sold out and no longer available.

We’ve adopted a paperless ticket system. Companies will invite their table guests to register via the Gala Table Portal.

Once guests register, guests will receive an email with an electronic ticket and QR code.

Allow sufficient time for entry on the day of the event. All guests must show their electronic QR code for admission.

No, ensure your guests are properly registered on our Gala platform, including full name, email, and guest profile.

Guests attending ELC’s Recognition Gala are seated at tables of 10 guests per table; additional seats cannot be added.

Black-tie attire is required for ELC’s Recognition Gala.

No, each program requires a separate registration for attendees participating throughout the week.

Private event space is subject to availability and requires a contract with the host hotel by August 1.

Availability is limited; contact elcgalaweek@thegrantaccess.com to request private event space for your company.

  • Pre-Gala Networking Reception: 4:30 – 5:30 p.m.
  • Recognition Gala: 6:00 – 9:15 p.m. (Doors open at 5:30 p.m.)
  • Gala Networking Lounge*: 6:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
  • Post-Gala Networking Reception: 9:30 p.m. – Midnight
    • *Gala Networking Lounge requires a separate ticket purchase and does not include access to Recognition Gala

Yes, a limited number of individual tickets will be available for purchase to the Post-Gala Networking Reception at a cost of $500/ticket. Proof of purchase is required for entry and access to the Post-Gala Networking Reception. Tickets will be available closer to the event date.

Still have a question?

Contact us today to receive more information.

programs & events

This year, The ELC Gala Week programs and events will impact over 3,000 members, students and esteemed guests at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in Maryland. 

Honors Symposium 

September 30-October 3, 2025

Mid-Level Managers’ Symposium (MLMS)

October 1-2, 2025

ELC Recognition Gala

October 2, 2025

ELC Member Closing Brunch 

October 3, 2025
ELC Gala Week 2025
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