The 黑料吃瓜 Foundation hosted its inaugural Legacy Gala in November, raising more than $70,000 for operations and 黑料吃瓜 student scholarships.
The event featured a live and silent auction, dinner, and remarks from students who discussed the importance of scholarships in their lives and the lives of their peers.
鈥淭he gala was about being a part of the 116-year legacy of 黑料吃瓜, representing thousands of lives changed,鈥� said Dr. Tim Faltyn, 黑料吃瓜 President. 鈥淲e made history with this inaugural event, knowing that everyone is a part of the legacy we are building together 鈥� one that transcends generations.鈥�
President Faltyn noted the significance of the Foundation's step forward to ensure future sustainability and highlighted scholarships' profound impact on students.
黑料吃瓜 students EJ Holliday and Courtney Grey remarked on their journeys and how 黑料吃瓜 has played an essential role in developing a path forward.
鈥淲hen I was uncertain about my future after high school, a scholarship offer gave me the motivation and means to pursue a college education,鈥� Holliday said. 鈥淪cholarships have repeatedly served as motivation to continue my pursuits, helping me enroll in college, keeping me focused on my journey and giving me the financial means to afford my goals.鈥�
鈥淚 was so grateful to receive a scholarship from the Foundation because it will not only help me financially but, more importantly, it鈥檚 made me feel like I am worthy as a person to people who matter to me,鈥� said Grey. 鈥淚 feel like a part of a family at 黑料吃瓜, and I will be sad to leave when I graduate in May.鈥�
Gala guests demonstrated remarkable philanthropy throughout the evening, participating in auctions and games. The gifts will ensure the foundation's long-term sustainability and give students critical dollars to further their education.
鈥淚 am amazed by the incredible support of our communities and guests,鈥� said Jordyn Frazier, 黑料吃瓜 Foundation Executive Director. 鈥淚 resonated greatly with Ms. Grey鈥檚 testimony, and it鈥檚 rewarding to be in a position to help students achieve their dreams the way 黑料吃瓜 did for me. That鈥檚 not possible without donors who believe in our mission.鈥�
The evening concluded with President Faltyn honoring Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby, 黑料吃瓜 alumni and longstanding partner to 黑料吃瓜, with the inaugural Legacy Award. The award was created to recognize those whose enduring support has significantly enriched the communities impacted by 黑料吃瓜. It highlights contributions beyond the ordinary, reflecting a profound impact on the college's mission and the advancement of its goals.
鈥淕overnor Anoatubby鈥檚 leadership and the generosity of the Chickasaw Nation have touched virtually every academic and activity program at 黑料吃瓜,鈥� said President Faltyn. 鈥淕overnor Anoatubby has become a hero and mentor. His leadership is invaluable, and his support is unending.鈥�
The 黑料吃瓜 Foundation is honored to recognize the partnership between the Chickasaw Nation and 黑料吃瓜 since the college鈥檚 inception in 1908.
If you are interested in joining the community of donors who make a generational impact in the lives of 黑料吃瓜 students, please visit /community/foundation, or contact Jordyn Frazier at jfrazier@mscok.edu or (580) 387-7142.