SOUTHINGTON EDUCATION FOUNDATION, INC.

Instilling a love of learning.

Annual Fan of the Foundation Gala

2011 Fan of the Foundation Gala

With the support of nearly 300 guests and a $5,000 challenge grant from the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, the Southington Education Foundation raised $35,000 at its third annual “Fan of the Foundation” gala held Friday, October 28, 2011, at the Aqua Turf. All proceeds will be channeled into the Southington school system via grants and other district-wide projects and initiatives.

Just weeks prior to the gala, the CFGNB issued a challenge to the SEF regarding proceeds from the event: raise more in profits over last year’s totals and earn an additional $5,000. CFGNB President Jim Williamson attended the gala and announced that evening that he was impressed with fundraising efforts and would indeed ensure the challenge grant.

Helping to raise profits this year was Valentine the Clown, who made an appearance during the live auction to help drum up bids among guests. A photo collage created by Southington High School students earned an unprecedented amount as did the coveted one-day assignment of superintendent of schools. New this year was ownership of a timeshare in Aruba, donated by a generous SEF Board at Large member.

Thank-you to all businesses, community and school organizations and individual residents who sponsored and supported this worthwhile event.

2010 Fan of the Foundation Gala

Friday, October 15, 2010, the Southington Education Foundation raised nearly $30,000 at its annual “Fan of the Foundation” gala – double the amount garnered during its premier event the previous year. All proceeds are channeled into the Southington school system via grants and other district-wide projects and initiatives. (see photos)

The evening attracted 300 guests, ranging from community members to local and state officials, educators and other supporters, many of whom took advantage of unique opportunities presented during the evening via live and silent auctions. For a complete listing of business sponsorships and gifts, click here.

SEF Chairwoman Bethany Pestillo welcomed attendees while Southington High School head football coach DJ Hernandez offered opening remarks. The 2010 SHS Wall of Honor recipients, including Chamber of Commerce President Art Secondo and lifelong educator and current SEF treasurer Alan DeBisschop, were also recognized during the event and presented with commemorative plaques. Also on hand to accept for his uncle was state Rep. Bruce Zeke Zalaski, who accepted the plaque for decorated World War II veteran Michael Ingelido, who resides in Colorado and could not be in attendance.

SEF Executive Director Dr. David Monti also announced during the evening an exciting endeavor that will partner the SEF with the Southington YMCA in the coming months. To date, the SEF has awarded more than $20,000 in grants to local educators who are looking to supplement current curriculum with creative programming in their classrooms. Grants applications for projects up to $1,000 are currently being accepted by the SEF.