News Department

Record-breaking funds raised at Sussex County Community College’s Funding Their Future

ANDOVER, NJ (Sussex County) – On Wednesday, Oct. 16, the community gathered to recognize and celebrate Sussex County Community College’s success and progress over the past four decades.

Board of Trustees chairs, students, donors, community members, and business supporters gathered at Perona Farms in Andover for the premier Sussex County Community College Foundation fundraising event: Funding Their Future.

Since its inception in 2017, the event has recognized influential leaders who have shaped Sussex County Community College’s journey. This year, the foundation honored both current and past Board of Trustees Chairs. Throughout the history of SCCC, these chairs have led the way, from establishing the campus in Newton to building successful programs that have served students and the community for more than 40 years.

This year’s event attracted a record number of attendees—207 supporters of the College came out to celebrate its accomplishments. With overwhelming support, the fundraising event grossed more than $89,000, shared Stan Kula, executive director of the SCCC Foundation.

“Last year we had 130 attendees and grossed $72,000, so there were big increases,” says Kula, who is “absolutely thrilled” and stated that the planning committee did an amazing job to make the event special.

Kula credits the success of this year’s event to the Foundation Board of Directors, who played a very active role in every aspect—from preparing the guest list and planning the event to arranging the entertainment and securing items for the silent auction.

At Funding Their Future, the Board of Trustees Chairs were honored, and students, donors, community members, and supportive businesses dedicated to SCCC’s mission of education were celebrated.

Kula noted that the evening included a cocktail reception featuring many culinary advisory board members affiliated with the SCCC Culinary Institute.

“Chef Martin Kester consistently excels at bringing together our culinary partners and students for the event,” says Kula. “Our culinary students had the unique opportunity to work directly with our culinary partners to create a truly special experience.”

“Our student ambassadors and scholarship recipients connected with guests, sharing their stories and experiences at SCCC and highlighting why their support matters,” he continues.

Guests enjoyed live entertainment from two bands and participated in a silent auction. The evening concluded with a recognition of the current and past Board of Trustee Chairs.

“Ten Trustee Chairs were honored—this is something new for the Funding Their Future event to feature,” says Kula.

Honorees who attended the event included Jeffrey Quinn, Robert Vandenbergh, Lorraine Parker, William Curcio, Tyler Morgus, and current Chair Kurt Gewecke. The following were honored posthumously: Ron Jackowitz, Charles Tice, and Kirk Perry. Jacob Smith did not attend.

Proceeds from this fundraising event will be used in various ways.

“Each year, the foundation helps raise funds for student success, academic support, faculty and staff support, innovation, and campus building projects, so every student benefits from an event like this,” says Kula.

“A very special thanks to SCCC Foundation Chair Roger Thomas and Funding Their Future Planning Chair Alissa Isaacson for their wonderful remarks at the event and all their hard work and support to make this the best event ever!” Kula concludes.

To donate to the Foundation, visit sussex.edu/foundation.

Jay Edwards

Born and raised in Northwest NJ, Jay has a degree in Communications and has had a life-long interest in local radio and various styles of music. Jay has held numerous jobs over the years such as stunt car driver, bartender, voice-over artist, traffic reporter (award winning), NY Yankee maintenance crewmember and peanut farm worker. His hobbies include mountain climbing, snowmobiling, cooking, performing stand-up comedy and he is an avid squirrel watcher. Jay has been a guest on America’s Morning Headquarters,program on The Weather Channel, and was interviewed by Sam Champion.

Related Articles

Back to top button