Members of A&S community to be honored at Onyx and Ruby Gala
Brackeen, Kennedy recognized for professional accomplishments and leadership
This year’s 11th annual Onyx & Ruby Gala will celebrate two members of the Arts and Sciences community: Candice N. Matthews Brackeen, A&S ‘04, and Jaela Kennedy, A&S ‘25.
Each year, the University of Cincinnati Alumni Association hosts the Onyx & Ruby Gala to celebrate and honor the accomplishments of six esteemed alumni and students. The gala also serves as a fundraiser for the Shani Scholarship, providing students with the opportunity to study abroad.
This year’s gala will take place at Great American Ball Park.
‘I stand on the shoulders of many‘
Candice N. Matthews Brackeen, A&S graduate and winner of a 2025 Onyx and Ruby award. Photo/Provided
Brackeen will receive the Linda Bates Parker Legend Award. Individuals are awarded this honor for their professional accomplishments and for supporting the development of those around them.
Parker, A&S ‘70, was the first Black woman to serve as associate vice provost for student affairs.
“Linda Bates Parker was a trailblazer who dedicated her career to opening doors for others, and to be recognized in her name is truly an honor,” Brackeen said. “This award isn’t just about personal achievement — it’s about the collective effort to create opportunities, uplift communities and ensure that the next generation has access to more than we did.”
Brackeen is the founder and CEO of Lightship Foundation and Lightship Capital. Collaborating and helping tech founders around the nation, Brackeen and her team lead these founders to obtain funding for their projects.
“It’s not about following a traditional path; it’s about creating one where more of us can thrive.”
Candice N. Matthews Brackeen CEO and A&S graduate, winner of the Linda Bates Parker Award
"I’ve always believed that talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not — and that’s why I’ve dedicated my career to bridging that gap,” Brackeen said. “It’s not about following a traditional path; it’s about creating one where more of us can thrive.”
Throughout her career, Brackeen has received many accolades for her innovative entrepreneurship, including the 2022 Inspire Change Changemaker Award presented by the Cincinnati Bengals and the 2023 Doritos Change Maker Award. She is also responsible for bringing to Cincinnati an event that brings together individuals with different backgrounds and experiences together to learn from one another.
Brackeen accredits her family, her team at Lightship Foundation, the founders she has been able to support through her work, mentors and peers for this award.
Said Brackeen: "No one does this alone, and I stand on the shoulders of many."
A campus leader
Each year at the Onyx & Ruby awards, one current student is recognized for their involvement on campus. The Student Trailblazer Award is given to those who encapsulate leadership. This student is someone who inspires their peers, is active in the campus community and leads the way for progress. And this year Kennedy will be the recipient of this honor.
“This recognition fuels my drive to keep pushing forward and ensuring that those who come after me have the space and support to lead,” Kennedy said. “It’s a reflection of my passion for empowering others and creating spaces where people can fully embrace their identity.”
Jaela Kennedy, recipient of the A&S Student Trailblazer Award,. Photo/Provided
During her time at UC, Kennedy has proven to be a leader in numerous organizations, including serving as president of the Cincinnatus Honorary Society, National Residence Hall Honorary and Council of Cultural Leaders. She also serves as vice president to the Lambda Society and was recognized as a top student in the Senior 100 Cohort.
“Ultimately, leadership isn’t a destination, but a responsibility to inspire and create opportunities for others,” Kennedy said.
Kennedy will graduate this spring with a bachelor's in interdisciplinary studies in law and society.
“I’m also deeply grateful for the support of the staff, faculty, mentors, and friends who’ve been with me every step of the way,” Kennedy said.
By Gracie Reed
Student Journalist, A&S Department of Marketing and Communication
artscinews@ucmail.uc.edu
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