South Plains College annual gala to feature unique items in live, silent auctions
LEVELLAND – South Plains College’s largest annual scholarship fundraiser is slated for 6p.m.. on Feb. 28 (Thursday) in the Mallet Event Center. The 21st annual SPC Scholarship Gala will feature live and silent auctions, a unique raffle, and the new Kendra Scott “pull.” All items in these portions of the event were donated by Levelland and Lubbock community members and businesses.
The Auctions and Raffle committee, which is comprised of SPC employees and community volunteers, is responsible for seeking item donations for the event. Committee members began gathering items in October 2018. In addition to obtaining auctions and raffle prizes, they also work to creatively display the items for bid at the event.
This years’ committee members are Suanne Alexander, Kristin Bingham, Judy Bryant, Lisa Delgado, Julie Gerstenberger, Ashley Lawless, Shelby Lewis, Tania Moody, Dee Dee Odorizzi, J’Lyn Poage (co-chair), Robyn Reaves and Stephanie Smith (co-chair).
“There’s no exaggeration when I say that the auctions and raffle portions of the Gala would not be possible without this committee,” said Stephanie Smith, alumni coordinator at SPC and chair of the committee. “They all take time from their already busy days to go out and seek donations to make the Gala a success. This is not a small task, and I’m so thankful for their willingness to share their time and resources with us.”
Smith said each year the committee seeks to collect exciting and unique treasures that may appeal to all Gala attendees. Historically, the auctions have included a variety of items including autographed sports memorabilia, exciting experiences, jewelry and one-of-a-kind artwork.
This year, the live and silent auctions will feature items such as an autographed Patrick Mahomes Chiefs jersey with custom framework, a classic string of pearls and Vahan pearl earrings, a Hero Custom .45 Kimber pistol, a beautiful decanter and wine glass set, an original Glenn Garnett signed watercolor, tickets to the New Braunfels and South Padre Schlitterbaun Resorts, a chic Joseph Ribkoff purse, a one-of-a-kind Epoxy River serving tray, and a trip to New Orleans.
This years’ raffle will include chances to win a Roomba, a Clean and Healthy Car package, Little Caesars pizza for a year, and a balloon ride at the 2019 Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta.
“We work very hard to gather a large variety of prizes,” said Smith. “Not only do we want to gather items that we think people will enjoy, but we want to make sure we’re including opportunities at every price point. There really is something for everyone!”
Silent Auction bidding is encouraged throughout the entire evening. SPC Campus Ambassadors will serve as assistants to those guests who would like to place bids while remaining at their table. Additionally, short breaks between SPC musical performances will be provided to give participants the opportunity to bid on auction items.
“At the end of the day, we are all here for one reason and that is to support scholarships at South Plains College,” said Smith. “Be confident in knowing that your participation throughout the event is directly impacting these outstanding students and ultimately impacting the community.”
For more information about the Auctions and Raffle committee or other ways to be involved with the Scholarship Gala, contact Smith in the Office of Development and Alumni Relations at 806-716-2103 or by email at slsmith@southplainscollege.edu.
