Gala on the Bluff Generates Funds for Student Scholarships

The Southern University College of Business held its twelfth Annual Gala On the Bluff Friday October 3, 2014 at 8 p.m. at the Belle of Baton Rouge Casino and Hotel.
Guest arrived in formal attire to enjoy, food, drinks, and a performance from recording group Tony Toni Tone. As guest arrived, they were greeted by volunteers and escorted to their seats. With this year being one of high attendance, the seating arrangements were still being worked on and advised moments before the event started.
Notable guest of attendance were Mayor President Melvin Kip Holden, and three Honorees, including Greg T. Foster who graduated from SU and became a Gas Plant Accountant for Exxon USA in 1979, Councilwoman C. Denise Marcelle of District 7 and Criminal Justice major of SU, and Dr. Warren Valdry.
Special thanks were given to two Doctoral Sponsors Louis Henry of Franchise Food Systems of Minnesota, Incorporated and Agnes Andrews of Allstate Insurance Agency. Both made $1,500 contributions. Master Sponsor Gregory Baranco, President and CEO of Baranco Automotive Group contributed $10,000 Bachelor Sponsor donated $5,000 and consisted of The Advocate, Gerry Lane LLC, Square Legacy Group , Global Resource Solutions, Entergy, Home Health Solutions and Dianne Andrews, and Holly Park Plaza Shopping Center. There were about 27 Associate Sponsors, which donated at least $2,000, including Baton Rouge Metro Airport, Oschner Health System, and Living Faith Christian Center.
“We appreciate all the contributions from every one,” said Dean Of the SU Business College Donald R. Andrews. “ I would like the students to understand that they are putting forth great work, and it is noticed.” Andrews went on to say, “The sky is the limit but the students must put in time to accomplish it.”
The Gala managed to raise about $80,000 in contributions. Andrews says he is excited and appreciates all the efforts. “Being in my position for 17 years I’m still learning,” said Andrews. “Hopefully I will one day be able to bring in millions of dollars.”
Practicing cardiologist and SU Supporter Dr. Steven E. Kelley of Baton Rouge shares why he feels the Gala is essential. “Me and my wife enjoy coming to the Gala and supporting the college of business.” “We want to make sure that every young person who wants to achieve their dreams can do so, from us giving, back. Reflecting back to his time in school and beginning of his career Kelley mentions how people supported him. “By the grace of God there were people that supported me throughout the years and have allowed me to achieve my goals and dreams, and I would like to give back, Me and my wife Danielle Kelley are committed,” finished Kellley.
With a few SU students were present senior marketing Major Breon Cox of Fort Lauderdale, Florida shares why he appreciates the Gala. “It’s a blessing to have people that care about us and gives money to support our dreams.” Said Cox. When asked about benefits from a students standpoint Cox responded saying. “It’s great, we all have opportunities to receive scholarships.”
“The gala is extremely important for the students,” said instructor of management, marketing, and accounting Laurie Patterson. “It grants them many more opportunities, that if there wasn’t the gala, these opportunities would not exist. Patterson went on to say “I want to thank all of our supporters and sponsors, we, the faculty and staff truly appreciate it.”