The National Coterie of Debutantes is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that connects promising young ladies with the international social, business and cultural connections necessary for success on the global stage. 

 

Participation is limited to 15 debutantes, all of whom must have been presented previously by local debutante assemblies.  Exceptions may be considered for international participants.  Additionally, 15 high school juniors and seniors will be selected as Ladies-in-Waiting. The assembly meets quarterly, in four cities, with workshops, cultural activities, service projects and special events in each.  During Social Season, debutantes will plan and host charity events.  Each season culminates with the International Winter Rose Ball, with proceeds benefiting an HBCU.

 

An optional international excursion is offered to each class.  The planned excursion for the 2016-2017 class is to Paris, France.

 

 

September 2017:  Applications and Interviews

 

November 2017:  Invitations extended

 

January 2018:  Washington, D.C.

Advocacy and Public Service

  • Optional Welcome Meet and Greet, Thursday at 7 p.m.

  • Tour of the White House and national monuments

  • Visit to Congress

  • Washington Power Lunch: Guest Speaker TBC

  • Personal Stationery Wardrobe Selection

  • Optional tour of the Smithsonian

  • Advanced Etiquette Workshops

  • Dance Practice

 

April  2018:  Atlanta, GA

Business and Leadership

  • Corporate Etiquette Workshop

  • The Gracious Hostess Event Planning Workshop

  • Tour of the MLK Center

  • Workshops: Skincare and Makeup Application

  • Spring Tea and Talent*

  • Dance Practice

 

May 2018:  International Excursion - PARIS (optional)

 

July  2018:  New York City

The Arts and Culture

  • International Protocol Workshop

  • Art Appreciation Workshop

  • The Wall Street Boardroom Experience

  • Broadway Performance

  • Choose One!: Circle Line Tour of New York City, Chinatown, Macy's Shopping

  • Tour:  Walking in the Footsteps of the Harlem Renaissance

  • Formal Dinner

  • Dance Practice

  • Optional:  Sunday Brunch at the Waldorf Astoria and Ballgown Showcase

 

October 2018:  New Orleans

Heritage and Service

  • Historical Tour of Louisiana Plantations and Their Legacies

  • Service Project:  Rebuilding New Orleans

  • Wardrobe Development Activity

  • Formal Portrait Session

  • Dance Practice

 

 

January 2019:  Memphis

FETE!

  • Dance Practice*

  • Presentation Practice*

  • Formal Presentation and Dinner*

  • Memphis 3000 Party*

  • MLK Weekend of Service Activities*

 

* Ladies-in-Waiting participate

 

 

The National Coterie of Debutantes