This year’s True Blue Gala/DCTC Foundation fundraiser was held on Thursday, April 23 at Brackett’s Crossing in Lakeville with record breaking attendance of 232 people. Attendees has an opportunity to win prizes at the Wall of Wine, the prize wheel and a silent auction with over 80 silent auction items to choose from.
Bob Voss, DCTC’s Entrepreneurship/Small Business Instructor, served as emcee and kept the excitement going through the entire evening.
The theme for the evening was “Equip our Future.” Students from the General Motors Automotive Service Educational program shared their personal stories with the audience and talked about the importance of funding the state-of-the-arts equipment needs for this high demand field.
Charlotte Kodner was awarded the Spirit of DCTC Award, for her contributions to the college mission while showing boundless support for student success in the classroom and beyond.
Kristin Paschka received the was awarded the Rising Star Award as a young alumna who is making significant contributions to society through professional or philanthropic work.
Matt Lijewski was awarded the Outstanding Alumni Award for the individual who has shown exceptional leadership, work ethic and dedication as part of the DCTC community.
The DCTC Advocacy Award went to the Kopp Family Foundation, Lee and Barbara Kopp, for their extraordinary support for the college mission through partnerships, community engagement and the promotion of technical education as a pivotal component in the quest for economic prosperity.
Also recognized was Margaret Noirjean, recipient of the Board of Trustees Excellence in Teaching Outstanding Educator; Ron Gruenes as Faculty of the Year Award recipient and Kerry Ringstad who was awarded the Adjunct Faculty of the Year Award.
Attendees raised almost $30,000 for the DCTC Foundation for financial assistance for students while building a general endowment fund and establishing private endowment funds.
“The Foundation wishes to thank all of the donors, participants, sponsors and volunteers,” notes Tharan Leopold, Executive Director of Foundation and Alumni. “Your contributions will help deserving students reach their educational goals.”
Photo credit and thanks go to Bill Eilers and students from his photography class for capturing the highlights of the event.
