About this Event
On October 3, 2026, the D.C. Spartans are hosting The Green & White Gala, presented by Rocket, at the Le Méridien Arlington. This signature evening brings together Michigan State University alumni and friends from across the country for a celebration of philanthropy, community, and Spartan spirit.
Proceeds from the Gala support the Club’s endowed scholarships at Michigan State. Thanks to the generosity of our community, more than $51,000 has already been awarded to outstanding students from the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia area.
Evening Schedule
- 6:00 - 7:30 pm – Cocktail Reception
- 7:30 - 9:30 pm – Program & Dinner
- 9:30- 10:00 pm – Reception & Silent Auction
What Your Ticket Includes
Enjoy a plated dinner and an open bar featuring premium beer, wine, and spirits, followed by an evening of celebration and camaraderie. The night concludes with the chance to take home exclusive silent auction prizes.
Meet Our 2026 Award Honorees
Each year, the Green & White Gala celebrates Spartans whose leadership, service, and impact exemplify the very best of Michigan State University.
Distinguished Alumni Award
The Distinguished Alumni Award recognizes a Spartan whose exceptional professional achievements, leadership, and service reflect a lasting commitment to making an impact in their profession and community.
Dr. Barbara Ross-Lee
Director, AOF Project Future Initiative
President, EDTV Network
Innovator Award
The Innovator Award recognizes a Spartan who is challenging convention, advancing new ideas, and creating meaningful impact through innovation and leadership.
Dr. Yvette Efevbera
Founder & CEO, SHE Thinks Group LLC
Join us on October 3 as we celebrate these outstanding Spartans and their achievements.
What is the attire?
The Green & White Gala is a formal event. Guests typically attend in evening wear: suits, cocktail dresses, or gowns.
Traveling to the Gala?
We've secured a preferred hotel rate of just $189 per night at Le Méridien Arlington. Reserve your room here.
Staying onsite makes it easy to enjoy the entire evening while connecting with fellow Spartans before and after the event. The discounted rate is available through September 18, 2026, or until the room block sells out, so we encourage you to book early if you're traveling from out of town.
Who are the DC Spartans?
The D.C. Spartans represent a community of more than 11,000 Michigan State University alumni living in the Washington, D.C. metro area. The Club is open and inclusive — there are no dues or membership requirements. Alumni, friends, family, and fans are invited to take part in a wide range of events, from networking opportunities and community service projects to an intern mentoring program and more.
Are sponsorships available?
Yes. Sponsorships play a vital role in making the Gala — and the Club’s scholarships — possible. To date, the D.C. Spartans have awarded more than $51,000 in scholarships to DMV-area students thanks to the generosity of our sponsors. To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Green & White Gala Chair Jeremy Blaney at [email protected] or +1-616-915-6319.
About the Scholarships
The Club sponsors two endowed scholarships at Michigan State University: the Rachel Kahan Memorial Scholarship and the Betty Mitchell Colden Scholarship. Both provide academically talented students from the D.C. metro area with the opportunity to pursue their education at MSU. Since 2017, 20 students have been supported through these scholarships, totaling more than $51,000 in awards.
"The Rachel Kahan Memorial Scholarship allowed me to work in Washington D.C. at the American Association of Geographers, where I was able to explore what I wanted out of my career. After my internship, I returned home to Detroit and worked in the local nonprofit space, helping entrepreneurs of color access capital for their business needs. I now work in Commercial Banking at JP Morgan and hope to return to the vibrant D.C. community at some point in the future. I am grateful for the scholarship because, without this opportunity, I would not have experienced all that D.C. has to offer young professionals."
Crys King | Class of 2019
Our Partners
The Green & White Gala, presented by Rocket, is made possible through the generosity of our sponsors and partners. Thank you for investing in Spartan students and our community.
Event venue & nearby stays
Le Méridien Arlington, 1121 19th Street North, Arlington, United States
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.