20
June
2012
|
08:51 AM
America/Los_Angeles

Jazz-Inspired Gala is a "Roaring" Success

CSUSM President Karen Haynes and the CSUSM Foundation Board presented the University’s Annual Gala, “All That Jazz” on Saturday, June 9. Featuring a Roaring Twenties theme, Kellogg Plaza was bedecked with a black and white checkered dance floor and festive tables were draped with “Cougar Blue” tablecloths, adorned with flowers and faux pearls. Syd Harris provided a display of two classic cars. While the band “The HEROES” played hits, costumed flappers danced to the Charleston. The guests joined in the fun of the theme as well, dressing in black tie or glamorous and glitzy period apparel. “I am extremely proud to lead a university where donors invest far more than financial support; they invest their time and their influence for the benefit of our students,” said President Haynes during her remarks, noting that the attendees are among the true champions of Cal State San Marcos.The event netted over $80,000 with proceeds primarily benefiting student scholarships as well as innovative research, student programming and the professional development of faculty.Nearly 300 guests and volunteers attended.  Elected officials in attendance included: State Senator Joel Anderson and San Marcos Mayor Jim Desmond. CSUSM Foundation Board Members in attendance included: Luanne Bas, senior vice president and regional director of Union Bank; David Bennett, CSUSM Adjunct Professor; Daniel Calac, medical director of the Indian Health Council; Sammi Carr, CSUSM student; Ronald Gerevas, College of Business Administration advisory board chair; Linda Hawk, Ed. D., Vice President of CSUSM Finance and Administrative Services; Anthony Jackson, retired US Marine Corps major general; Joshua Pack, managing director of Fortress Investment Group; and Jack Raymond, chairman and CEO of Raymond Companies and CSUSM Foundation Board chair.“You could say that Cal State San Marcos is ‘ROAR-ing’ in its 20s,” said Mistress of Ceremonies Barbara-Lee Edwards, co-anchor for San Diego’s News 8, during the gala program. “In university years, CSUSM is still young but its growth has been impressive. Last fall, the university achieved yet another great milestone – student enrollment exceeded 10,000 for the first time!  What started with just a handful of students in a leased retail space has grown into this dynamic and thriving university where students, faculty and staff come together each day to advance the frontiers of knowledge.” Highlights of the night included a silent and live auction, an inspirational video showcasing three student scholarship recipients and a live “Raise the Paddle for Scholarships” auction. Watch the video now: