October 31, 2005

Northwest celebrates centennial with formal gala

MARYVILLE, Mo. - An elegant evening of dining and dancing is in store for persons attending Northwest Missouri State University’s Centennial Gala on Saturday, March 18. The excitement surrounding the event continues to build as word spreads that one lucky person in attendance will win a new vehicle.

The Centennial Gala, A Tradition of Excellence, will begin with a 6 p.m. social, followed by dinner, a short program, live and silent auctions and a dance with music provided by The Rumbles. The event will be in the Maryville Community Center.

“The gala is going to be a first-class affair – a celebration like you’d expect for a university celebrating 100 years of excellence in education,” said Orrie Covert, Northwest’s vice president for university advancement. “The car giveaway certainly adds another element of excitement.”

Everyone who attends the gala will be eligible for the giveaway. Once the winner’s name is drawn, he or she will get to choose from three new vehicles – a Jeep Wrangler, a Ford Fusion or a Harley-Davidson motorcycle.

All proceeds from the event will go to the American Dream Grant, Northwest’s groundbreaking needs-based financial aid initiative that benefits undergraduates who might otherwise find a college education beyond their financial reach because of their family’s income.

Unlike other needs-based programs, the grant pays virtually all college expenses, including room, board, books and the use of a computer, during the student’s first two years of study at Northwest.

“A college degree is the portal to the American dream, and I’m proud that the Centennial Gala will support such a worthwhile program,” said Northwest President Dean L. Hubbard, who said the idea for the grant program came, in part, from the need to respond to a decrease in needs-based federal support for students.

“We know those with college degrees can expect to earn at least $1 million more during their lifetimes than those who do not have degrees,” Hubbard said. “A bonus is the fact that they also become taxpayers, voters and involved citizens. We are absolutely certain Northwest’s investment in the American Dream Grant will be paid back to society a thousand-fold in the years to come.”

The gala is black-tie optional, and a cash bar will be available. Tickets cost $150 per person and can be ordered online at www.nwmissouri.edu/alumni/EVENTS/galaform.htm or by writing Lynn Ruhl at lruhl@nwmissouri.edu or calling (660) 562-1248.

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