The Diamond Scholars Prom is returning for its second year. Seventh through ninth-grade students across the city are invited to attend this celebration from 6-10 p.m. on May 16, 2025, at The Spotlight Center NE in Indianapolis.
The prom will include a formal dinner, DJ and photo booth. The event aims to connect students to local resources and support them as they transition to high school and beyond. Inspired by her son and his friends, Lenesha Stone said the prom was a “God-given vision.” Her goal was to expose students to organizations that can help them achieve their goals.
Stone remembered the information she learned when programs such as D.A.R.E. and McGruff the Crime Dog visited her school. She wanted her son and his peers to have the same experience.
“We have so many connections available to youth outside of social media, and we just want youth to know that preparing and having the knowledge in advance will help when you feel it’s too hard,” said Stone, the founder of LMS2 Events, a full-service event management company.
As a part of the prom, students in attendance are eligible for a $500 scholarship provided by the Yonna Foundation, a local nonprofit supporting mental health and advocacy. Students will also hear from community leaders and meet representatives from organizations such as Pretty Passionate Hands, Volunteers of America, Lego Love LLC and Ivy Tech Community College academic advisors.
“This year will be just as exceptional as last year but with even more ways to connect for their futures,” Stone said. “To give youth more chances to interact with community organizations that can help benefit them, we have added in two community prep nights ahead of prom to help them connect.”
Community Prep Nights will occur on April 28 at The Spotlight Center NW and on May 8 at The Spotlight Center NE. During these nights, students can receive free prom dresses if needed, schedule barber and hair styling appointments, or speak with mental health organizations. They can also get help filling out the application for the $500 scholarship.
The Diamond Scholars Prom is free, but donations are welcome to ensure the continued success of the program. To register or donate to this event, visit http://www.lms2events.com/DiamondScholarsProm. The Spotlight Center NE is at 5060 E. 62nd Street, Suite 100, Indianapolis, 46220.
