Georgia Southern University's Center for Professional Education (CPE) hosted its inaugural gala on Friday, December 6, 2024. The goal for the gala was to raise funds for the Division of Continuing and Professional Education's Free Community Programs.
The CPE Free Community Programs launched in March 2024, offering free educational events to anyone in the community. Programs have ranged from financial literacy to creative writing, social media strategies, and more.
The event welcomed guests with a red carpet experience, setting the tone for an evening of glamour and excitement. Capture Grace Photography was on hand to ensure attendees could commemorate the occasion with professional photos. Inside, guests enjoyed a lively atmosphere filled with delicious food, refreshing drinks, and engaging conversations.
Highlights of the Night
The gala featured both a silent auction and an exciting live auction. The silent auction included over 50 items, offering attendees a chance to bid on a variety of unique and valuable offerings. Meanwhile, the live auction showcased five exclusive items that captured the audience's attention, including a dream trip to Italy and a stunning two-tier cake generously donated by Sweet Impact.
Both auctions were a resounding success, with all live auction items sold and substantial funds raised for the cause.
Adding to the evening's significance, guest speaker Dal Cannady delivered an inspiring address. Cannady shared his journey of continuing education, proudly recounting his recent achievement of completing a certification through the University of Georgia. His story underscored the transformative impact of lifelong learning and the importance of accessible education for the community.
A Fundraising Triumph
The gala exceeded its fundraising goal of $2,500, raising an impressive $3,600. These funds will go directly toward supporting CPE programs in 2025, including topics like financial literacy, human resources, and social media marketing.
The funds will help cover instructor costs and marketing efforts, ensuring that these valuable programs remain accessible to the community.
"The Community Gala was an incredible success, and I couldn't be more grateful for the outpouring of support from our sponsors, partners, and attendees. This evening truly showcased the power of community and the shared commitment to making a difference through education. Thanks to everyone's generosity, we are able to continue offering programs that serve as lifelines for so many in our region. Together, we're building a stronger, brighter future, and I want to extend my deepest thanks to everyone who helped make this event such a memorable celebration." Deedee Southerlin, Ed.D. Director.
Community Support
The gala would not have been possible without the support of its sponsors. A special thank you was extended to gold sponsors, The Sack Company and Transdev, whose generosity played a key role in the event’s success.
Looking Ahead
The CPE Community Gala showcased the power of collaboration and the community's commitment to education. As plans begin for 2025, the Center for Professional Education invites individuals passionate about teaching to join the effort.
If you are interested in becoming an instructor, please contact Nadine Loitz at nloitz@georgiasouthern.edu.
This inaugural event was not just a celebration of education—it was a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together to support a shared mission.