Recap: Ignite Atlanta 2026 Scholarship Event
A Community Standing Together to Move Medicine Forward
“We did more than gather—we stood together and aligned. In a time of uncertainty, Atlanta chose to move as one and invest forward. Every dollar raised and every story shared is a declaration: the future of medicine depends on who we are willing to support today—and that support must continue”
Ignite Atlanta marked seven years of impact and continued growth for ElevateMeD. Held at Ventanas, the event brought together a community choosing to invest in the future of medicine.
Since 2020, ElevateMeD has awarded more than 167 scholarships and invested over $1.5 million in tuition-based support, reaching Scholars across more than 30 states. Here in Georgia, that impact continues to show up in meaningful ways, with Scholars training, leading, and preparing to serve in communities across the region.
With more than 100 attendees and over $92,000 raised, Ignite Atlanta 2026 demonstrated what is possible when a community comes together with purpose. The energy in the room reinforced a shared commitment to ensuring that future physicians are supported at every stage of their journey.
The 2026 Ignite Atlanta event featured the following highlights:
Over $92,000 raised with 100+ guests in attendance
The Doctor’s Note: Violinists Ekene Agu and Jabari Owens, rising fourth-year medical students at Emory University School of Medicine, delivered a powerful performance that blended artistry and medicine, reflecting the depth and talent within the ElevateMeD Network
A powerful opening from Event Chair and Board Member, Dr. Jeshenna Watkins, who reminded us that meaningful change only happens when people choose to stand together.
Erica Acie of Truist, our Together We Rise Sponsor, shared Truist’s commitment to supporting physicians throughout every stage of their careers
Remarks from Executive Director, Jeffrey Armstrong, highlighting Atlanta’s role in shaping ElevateMeD and the continued expansion of impact through ElevateDReams
A powerful Scholar and alumni panel sharing personal experiences on mentorship, financial support, and the importance of community in navigating medical training
Moderated by Dr. Christian Freeman
Panelists: Naomi Coles, Onyinye Okonma, and Aly Toure
A dynamic live auction led by Subyn Novelle
Closing remarks from ElevateMeD Founder and Board Chair, Dr. Alyx Porter Umphrey, reinforcing the importance of continued support and collective impact
Live musical entertainment by DJ Reggie Love
A very special thank you to every supporter, volunteer, partner, and sponsor who attended and helped make Ignite Atlanta 2026 a meaningful and impactful gathering!
It’s not too late to join the celebration!
If you missed Ignite Atlanta, there are multiple ways you can still celebrate seven years of elevating medicine with us.
Invest your time. Volunteer as a Physician Mentor or on our Advisory Board.
Invest your dollars. Give at give.elevatemed.org. If you have already given, see if your employer will match your donation.
Shop & Give. Sport ElevateMeD merchandise available at shop.elevatemed.org.
Share and tell a friend.
Save the date
We are preparing for our signature Fall fundraiser, Explosion of A Dream 2026: Nothing Is Impossible, on September 19, 2026, at The Camby in Phoenix, Arizona!
Sponsorship opportunities currently available at sponsor.elevatemed.org.
Ticket sales open in June.
PLEASE ENJOY THE OFFICIAL RECAP OF OUR EVENT HIGHLIGHTS.
On behalf of the 90 ElevateMeD Scholars and our committed Board of Directors, Advisory Board, and program team, we are grateful for your continuous support in elevating the field of medicine!
Ignite Atlanta WAS MADE POSSIBLE THANKS TO OUR DEVOTED PARTNERS AND EVENT SPONSORS.
Together We Rise Sponsor: Truist Bank
Stand with Many Sponsors: Drs. Shannon Smith and Eric Hamilton, City of Hope, and Council & Associates
Stand with Us Sponsors: Emory School of Medicine, Dr. Darren Dolly, The ladies of APEx 34
Auction Sponsors: 831 MinhLe, Chef Jeff Lampkin, Reeds Jewelers, and our ElevateMeD Board of Directors
THANK YOU TO ALL SPONSORS:
Together We Rise
Sponsor
Stand with Many
Sponsors
Stand with Us
Sponsors
