ABOUT US
It is with great pride and joy that The Ivy Foundation, Incorporated hosted the
2025–2026 Pearls of Prestige Debutante Cotillion Program.
This distinguished program, designed to provide life and leadership skills to high school junior and senior young ladies of African American descent. Through monthly meetings, educational workshops, cultural enrichment, and community service projects, participants develop communication and advocacy skills,
social etiquette, and personal confidence.
At the culmination of the program, each Debutante will be formally presented to the community during the elegant Pearls of Prestige Debutante Cotillion—a celebration of grace, achievement, and promise.
Each Debutante is supported with a team of mentors, their parents or parent figures, a peer age escort, and an expanded understanding of community throughout the program and at the Cotillion Ball
COTILLION HISTORY
Debutante is a French word meaning female beginner or one who makes a first appearance. Historically, she was a young lady from an aristocratic upper class family who upon reaching the age of maturity came out into society at a formal debut. The idea of presenting young girls to society began in the United States in 1748. During this time, the 59 colonial Philadelphia families held Dancing Assemblies, the forerunner to the Debutante Ball. The tradition continues today through the country with the majority of balls being held from November through January.
