Harper College gala raises $156,000

A dinner-and-dancing gala aimed at raising money for Harper College student scholarships, programs, and educational experiences was held Saturday, March 6 in Schaumburg. The event was attended by 285 people, and raised around $156,000.

The President's Ball, hosted by Harper's Educational Foundation, featured live music and remarks from a Harper scholarship recipient and College President Ken Ender, both of whom stressed the importance of helping students achieve their dreams. Bob Fiorani, an Educational Foundation board member and a retired vice president at Square D/Schneider Electric, also addressed the crowd and solicited additional scholarship support.

Since its inception in 1973, Harper's Educational Foundation has supported the college and its students with dozens of scholarships, programming and other financial contributions.

"Today, our Foundation is working even more diligently in the face of decreased state funding and increased demand for higher education opportunities," said Catherine Brod, Harper College Educational Foundation Executive Director. "Our success has come from building strong relationships with others in our community. Our President's Ball is another excellent opportunity to make new connections and bring our community together for the purpose of championing the College and our students."

The ball was held at the Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel and Convention Center, 1551 Thoreau Drive North. Event Co-Chairs were Fiorani and his wife, Roberta, of Barrington; Mike and Sue Gilfillan of Arlington Heights; and Jack and Linda Lloyd of Palatine. For more information on gala sponsorships or other donation opportunities, visit www.harpercollege.edu.