Oakton's Scholar Chips fundraiser takes in $27,000
Thanks to the support of the Oakton faithful and local community, the Oakton Educational Foundation raised more than $27,000 for student scholarships at an event held at the Rivers Casino, 3000 S. Road, Des Plaines, Friday, Sept. 18.
More than 200 guests - including Oakton students, alumni, employees and members of the board of trustees, as well as local residents - attended Scholar Chips, a fundraiser that included entertainment, hors d'oeuvres, a dinner buffet and an open bar.
Attendees feeling lucky had the opportunity to enter a raffle that included a $500 first-place prize. Floyd Aylin, an Oakton alum and professor of information technology, claimed the top prize. Aylin donated half the winnings back to the Educational Foundation.
"There is a tremendous number of deserving students out there who need scholarships to realize their full potential in life," he said.
Educational Foundation President Howard Singer was grateful for Aylin's actions, as well as the overall support for the event.
"It's overwhelming to see the tremendous support shown by all who made the fundraiser such a success. I extend a special thanks to everyone who turned out to give students in our community a chance to succeed."
An additional fundraiser for the foundation was held at Play Book Sports Bar in Niles. More than 60 Oakton students, alumni, employees and members of the board of trustees, as well as local residents, showed up for Trivia Night.
Teams participated in a "back to school" themed trivia battle that included categories such as history, pop culture and sports. Not only did the event allow participants to try to outwit each other for bragging rights, but also raised approximately $1,000 for student scholarships.
"Educational Foundation events are a perfect opportunity for fellowship between employees, students, alums and the community to gather in an informal environment," said Oakton Vice President for Student Affairs Michael Anthony, who attended both Scholar Chips and Trivia Night.
"When you gather for a purpose, you get a high level of engagement that creates a festive atmosphere."