STARK COUNTY, Ohio — "Dawn of a New Beginning" is the theme of the 2022 Stark County Debutante Cotillion Ball, held on Sunday. 

Sponsored by the Leila Green Alliance of Black School Educators, the occasion marked the first time in a decade that the regional event has occurred, highlighting the achievements of young Black girls. 

The gala, held at the Double Tree by Hilton hotel in Canton, was the culmination of two years of dedication toward completing projects focused on academic excellence, professional development, and community service. Twelve young ladies, their families, and the young men selected to serve as their cotillion escorts were celebrated. 

Reigniting interest in the cotillion was the vision of two sisters, Dr. Nicole Bush and Dr. Jennifer Ross. They were born and raised in Stark County and appreciated the significance of the tradition. As members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., they sought the guidance of the organization in cotillion preparations. 

"This journey has been nothing short of amazing!," said Bush and Ross in a statement. "We observed the resiliency and persistence of the debutantes and committee members as they navigated the hardships of the past year." 

All of the debutantes are currently high school seniors or first-year college students. 

During the gala, multiple scholarships were awarded by the Stark County Cotillion Committee. The committee supported the participants throughout their leadership-building activities, sharing this quote from Harriet Tubman in their recognition of the girls: "Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world."