News Release

Wilmington University’s Green and White Ball is Huge Success

Monday, November 02, 2009 - New Castle, DE

Over 500 people packed Wilmington University’s Doberstein Admissions Center this past Saturday, October 31, for the University’s first scholarship gala – the Green and White Ball. Guests dressed up in their finest for the masquerade ball donning tailored tuxedos and lavish gowns as they danced the night away, enjoying cuisines from around the world. Thanks to the generosity of each of these guests, the University proudly raised $105,450 for student scholarships.

“The fact that so many people participated in the Green and White Ball as sponsors, donors, volunteers and in-kind gift givers, particularly in these challenging economic times, makes us even more grateful for their support,” said Dr. Thomas B. Cupples, Assistant Vice President in the Office of the President at the University. Dr. Cupples, along with the Alumni Relations Department and the Green and White Ball committee, helped to plan and organize the event that was initiated more than a year ago. “Hundreds of people came together to make this evening a success. We had 120 vendors and musicians and over 50 volunteers, and we couldn’t have done it without them,” added Gloria Johnson the General Co-Chair of the event.

Wilmington University President, Dr. Jack Varsalona, added that he was very pleased with the turnout of the event and even more pleased to meet some of the scholarship recipients in person. “It is part of the University mission to ensure that all who seek access to a higher education are granted that access, regardless of their income,” said Dr. Varsalona, “That is why we are so touched by the kindness of all of these donors. They are paving a path of success for hundreds of future Wilmington University students.”

A magical evening for all, the ball began with guests walking down the green carpet, surrounded by photographers and humming along to the swinging beat of the Jim Laushey Dixiecats band. Ushers then guided the guests into the Green and White Ballroom where guests enjoyed some champagne and danced to classic rock n’ roll sounds of The Funsters. The Green and White Ballroom also featured a silent auction with items ranging from signed sports memorabilia to televisions, boat trips, computers and more. The silent auction was a great success raising over $12,500 towards student scholarships.

Down the hall more guests piled into the elevator and made their way to the second floor. As they exited they were greeted by vendors from Ole Tapas, University and Whist Club and Harry’s Seafood Grill. Walking to the left, guests were thrust into the old Southwest as they entered the Southwest room. Serenaded by the sounds of the Maya Mariachi band, guests enjoyed the decadent food of Where Pigs Fly Restaurant and Union City Grill.

For those looking for some pub singing and lagers the Irish Pub room was where to find Fisher and Maher singing the authentic sounds of the Emerald Isle. Down the hall in the Asian room classical musicians Snow Shen and Yinji Cui entertained the crowd as the sushi chefs from Mikimotos and Food for Thought prepared a fantastic meal.

Cecelia Vavala, a guest in the Asian Room, said she decided to come to the Ball after her friend told her about it. “This is my first Wilmington University event and I think it is very nice,” said Vavala, “I loved the different food and entertainment. You can see someone has put a lot of time and effort into this event.”

“The Tour of Italy room was just like being back in Italy,” said one of the guests. With ravishing ravioli, delicious tomato pie and baked ziti, guests didn’t know what to choose. Café Scalessa and the Italian Kitchen provided the cuisine while Sergio and Francesco entertained the guests. Upstairs the crowd danced the night away in the New Orleans Jazz room. The Creative Jazz Ensemble played some funky tunes while guests enjoyed seafood, jambalaya and gumbo.

Guests Lyle Frederick and his wife Dede enjoyed the night making sure to check out every room. “We are happy to be a part of the first of hopefully many to come scholarship balls at Wilmington University,” Said Frederick. Eileen added, “We think the format is great and has a very different flare to it...we will definitely be back next year.”

 To see more pictures visit http://www.wilmu.edu/ur/multimedia/galleries/slideshow.aspx?pSetID=72157622595415277.

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