The Annual President's gala

President’s Circle donors, 1893 Society members thanked for their generosity
 
The Fine and Performing Arts Building provided a stunning backdrop for the Annual President’s Gala with East Stroudsburg University President Marcia G. Welsh, Ph.D., and the ESU Foundation welcoming members of the President’s Circle and the 1893 Society for their support during the 2018-2019 year.

See photos from the Annual President’s Gala.
 
Themed Sphere, the gala was held on Sept. 13, 2019, and recognized individuals, businesses, and organizations who have provided gifts of support of $1,500 or more over the last fiscal year. Members of the 1893 Society, those who include the ESU Foundation in their estate plans, also attended.
 
The gala caps a milestone year in fundraising for the ESU Foundation, a record for the 33-year-old non-profit. ESU Foundation Executive Director Rich Santoro shared with guests that the year resulted in $4,648,606 in total gifts and pledges. The Foundation’s scholarship program also continues to thrive, awarding $942,659 in scholarship support to ESU students in 2018-2019. Thirty-nine scholarships were created last year, also a record for newly established funds.
 
“Tonight is our opportunity to celebrate you and your support of East Stroudsburg University,” said Santoro. “Over the past year, you have played a crucial part in helping ESU’s students receive a quality education to help ensure they succeed in the classroom and then in the world. We look to give them the tools they need to prosper. And this year, I am pleased to share that the ESU Foundation did that, and more.”
 
President Welsh expressed that ESU’s students deserve the opportunity for the best education possible.
 
“They come to ESU from so many walks of life – some with significant family support, and others with practically nothing but a desire to obtain their education and achieve something of significance in their lifetimes. It simply is not too much to ask, for a chance, an opportunity, to learn and grow. Through your support, it can and does happen!”