For 75 years, the longest-running Black cotillion in Colorado has celebrated young Black women in Denver for their academic achievements and community contributions.
The Owl Club of Denver recently welcomed its newest class of debutantes — 13 high school seniors from across the metro area — at its annual cotillion ball. The cotillion is the culmination of months of preparation, including college preparatory workshops, etiquette lessons, dance rehearsals, and dress shopping.
For the past several months, the Owl Club of Denver has filled its social media platforms with salutes to, and testimony from, the women who, following their presentation at the club’s annual Debutante Cotillion, have gone on to excel, achieve and set positive examples for those who follow.
In showcasing their prominence, the club members weren’t just bragging about having chosen graduating high school seniors with a clear sense of direction. They were offering proof to the 2026 debutantes that it’s perfectly OK to set lofty goals because with hard work and perseverance, dreams can indeed come true.

Members with the 85-year old Owl Club Organization are interviewed as part of the Black History Month celebration. The Owl Club will host its 75th Diamond Anniversary Cotillion Presentation in June 2026.
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Elevating Denver: Owl Club
For over 80 years, The Owl Club of Denver has been empowering African American youth to soar high by providing invaluable support and opportunities through brotherhood and community service.
The club also works to elevate and highlight young women in the community through their annual Debutante Cotillion, their signature event of the year.
Their legacy is immense, and count many
local and national leaders amongst their membership.
Join us to hear about their significant impact they've made on Denver over the years. Don't miss it! The Owl Club Members latest social media appearance is with Matt Hinderman, Multiplatform Producer for the City and County of Denver.
https://youtu.be/wevazLDX2Bc

9News Recognizes The Owl Club of Denver Legacy of Service.
Please click on the link below to watch the first of several Owl Club members' interviews by 9News Janelle Finch and Anne Herbst as we celebrate 83 years of community service.

In the spotlight this Black History month: The Owl Club of Denver.
Please click on the link below to watch Jessica Porter's interview with Owl Club member Mr. Ronald Washington and Terri Gentry, History Colorado's Engagement Manager for Black Communities.
In 1951, the first Owl Club debutante Ball was held at the Park Hill Country Club. It was the first such cotillion in the City and County of Denver. From 1951 through the current year, The Owl Club of Denver has been pleased to present over 1,000 of Denver's finest African American young ladies as Owl Debutantes.
Education has always been a high priority for the Owl Club membership. Recognizing the financial needs of many talented Owl Club Debutantes, William Kirk established the first Owl Club Scholarship Fund. Today, the Owl Club of Denver Scholarship Foundation annually awards scholarships to Debutantes who best meet the academic and financial requirements set up by the Foundation.
The Debutantes are selected on the basis of academic achievement, morals, character, leadership and outstanding community achievements. The young ladies are not presented on the basis of their parents' social status or economic background, but rather, are required to qualify on their own merits.
At The Owl Club of Denver, Inc., we are committed to promoting diversity, inclusivity, and respect. Our events and activities are designed to create a welcoming space for everyone, regardless of background or identity.

The Owl Club of Denver, Colorado was founded in 1941. Annually, the Club recognizes outstanding African-American young ladies with the Debutante Cotillion.
Please click the following link to view the 2020 virtual 69th Annual Debutante Cotilion celebration. https://discovered.tv/watch/ZajmBGt3
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