Savoring the excellence

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Student performances delight guests, local business and leaders recognized at Savoring Excellence event
Sarah Swift performs "Ashokan Farewell" with Connor Kegg accompanying her.

Sarah Swift ’16 performs “Ashokan Farewell” with Connor Kegg accompanying her.

 

The sweet and slow melody of the Scottish air “Ashokan Farewell” played on violin, a throaty version of the melancholy “Asleep” by ’80s band The Smiths and a hip hop dance routine to “Rockin’ Robin” thrilled guests at an annual donor appreciation event on campus in May.

Some of Clark’s most generous donors were in attendance at Gaiser Student Center on May 20 to witness students display a variety of musical and dance performances, and interact with artists exhibiting their welded sculptures during a Savoring Excellence celebration.

Hannah Toner performs The Smith's "Asleep."

Hannah Toner performs The Smith’s “Asleep.”

Lisa Gibert, president/CEO of Clark College Foundation, thanked the guests for their investment in Clark College.

“I’m honored to stand here before you, in acknowledgement of your generous support to help young people like those we’ve seen so far tonight, experience excellence in education—no matter their area of academics, their desired certificate, degree or outcome—to discover and grow their talents so that they can imagine their dreams and become all they are meant to be.

The table is set at Savoring Excellence.

The table is set at Savoring Excellence.

Delicious entrees and decadent desserts were enjoyed, fascinating conversations were had, and connections with old friends were made for the 160 guests in attendance. Before the program and formal dinner, guests gathered in the Fireside room to mingle, as well as meet three student artists and view their work. On display were Jeffrey Grimes’ “Opposites Attract,” Dean Popek’s “United We Stand” and Jason Belmore’s ‘The Weight of Circles.”

During the program, President Robert K Knight spoke about the challenges of upcoming budget cuts and the affect a lower enrollment has on the college’s operational expenses. He also highlighted new projects in the works such as the construction of a 70,000 square foot science building, remodeling the Culinary Arts facility and launching a new scholarship in memory of Ed and Dollie Lynch.

Jeffrey Grimes stands next to his piece, "Opposites Attract."

Jeffrey Grimes stands next to his piece, “Opposites Attract.”

Local business and long-time friend of the college SEH America, a Shin-Etsu Chemical Company, was recognized with an inaugural Corporate Friend of Education award.

“Friendship is the basis for how Shin-Etsu Chemical Company, parent of SEH, built a bond between our countries, our cities, our rotary clubs and our college,” Knight said.

And two leaders of the community and foundation board members – Rick Takach and Greg Wallace – were presented with Clark College Foundation’s Presidential Award during the ceremony.

Savoring Excellence is an annual invitation-only event that graciously recognizes the community’s support of Clark College. The evening’s festivities are provided by Clark College Foundation.

Visit Flickr for more photos

Left to right, Thomas Merfeld and Stephen Hunt perform "Downstairs."

Left to right, Thomas Merfeld and Stephen Hunt perform “Downstairs.”

Dio Bouzigues plays guitar while singing an original song.

Dio Bouzigues plays guitar while singing an original song.

Jacob Lein performed several pieces prior to the start of the program.

Jacob Lein performs several pieces prior to the start of the program.

Hayden Hall and Jordyn Allen finish their performance to the tune of Rockin' Robin.

Hayden Hall and Jordyn Allen finish their performance to the tune of Rockin’ Robin.

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