PHILADELPHIA, June 1, 20222 – Community College of Philadelphia Foundation hosted the 2022 Black & Gold Gala. Emceed by 6ABC’s Rick Williams, the gala took place at Vie by Cescaphe.
As the College Foundation’s signature fundraising event, it has raised nearly $2 million since 2018 to support student scholarships. With more than 700 tickets sold, this year’s gala raised over $870,000 – a record-breaking amount.
“Last night, we came together to recognize the exceptional leaders in our community and support our students,” said College President Dr. Donald “Guy” Generals. “The record-breaking funds raised will provide much-needed scholarships that so many of our students depend on to complete their education. I would like to thank our gala committee, the College’s Board of Trustees, the Foundation Board of Directors, and our generous sponsors for making this possible.”
He added, “By giving students the opportunity to overcome one of the greatest barriers to their success – the lack of financial resources – you are opening doors to brighter futures.”
The presenting sponsor for this year’s Black & Gold Gala was Parx Casino®. Platinum sponsors included FS Investments and Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church.
Event proceeds benefit the 50th Anniversary Promise Scholarship and other scholarships for college students.
“Last night, the Community College of Philadelphia Foundation and our partners came together to create possibilities for our students and to build a stronger Philadelphia,” said Community College of Philadelphia Foundation President and First Lady of Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church, Ellyn Jo Waller, Ed. D. “The 2022 Black & Gold Gala was a huge success with the support of my fellow Foundation Board of Directors and the College’s Board of Trustees. We are extremely grateful for all they do to uplift our students.”
Each year, the Black & Gold Gala recognizes the outstanding service of individuals and organizations in the City of Philadelphia that demonstrate involvement in community growth in the areas of education, business, social services, and health.
This years honorees included:
Community Hero Award: Kenneth and Faatimah Gamble, co-founders, Universal Companies
Corporate Leadership Award: Michael Forman, chair and CEO, FS Investments
Alumni Achievement Award: Alfred T. Samura, MD, Cooper University Health Care
“Last night’s Black & Gold Gala was record-breaking in more ways than one,” said College vice president for Institutional Advancement and Foundation executive director Dr. Mellissia Zanjani. “We’ve raised more than ever and for the first time, sold out the event. The gala would not have been a tremendous success without the continued support from our Honorary Chair Mayor Jim Kenney, co-chairs Deana Gamble and Nedia Ralston, our presenting sponsor Parx Casino®, as well the entire College community.”
In addition to a silent auction, attendees were able to participate in a diamond-tini raffle where one lucky winner received a diamond sponsored by the Philadelphia Diamond Co.
Individuals and organizations interested in supporting Community College of Philadelphia students can still make a one-time or monthly contribution by visiting foundation.ccp.edu/donate.
About the Community College of Philadelphia Foundation
The Community College of Philadelphia Foundation exists solely to enhance and enrich the educational experiences of Community College of Philadelphia students, alumni, faculty, staff, and community. As its philanthropic fundraising arm, the Foundation supports the College’s comprehensive mission by creating partnerships with individuals, businesses, organizations, and other foundations to raise private contributions in support of scholarships, programs, facilities, equipment, professional development, and greatest needs.