As COVID-19 continued to impact in-person special events well into 2021, West Chester University took a moment to look toward the future and transform our 38th Annual President’s Scholarship Gala. Defining what this event meant to West Chester University, we created the 2021 G.A.L.A. (Give. Advance. Lead. Achieve.). It was an innovative nine-week spring fundraising program that secured more than $162,000 and engaged over 400 alumni, friends, parents, faculty, staff, and community members, netting $88,000 for the Presidential Scholarship and $42,000 for additional funds. With a series of six virtual event offerings and marketing of our inaugural Charter Day of Giving, our university successfully transitioned the gala from one great night out to an inclusive fundraising and engagement opportunity.
From the Judges
West Chester University's nine-week fundraising program led with a clever slogan, setting the tone for what it means to be a part of their donor community. By presenting a variety of events over a longer period than most online events, the team at West Chester engaged more audiences and successfully caught the attention of a wide variety of alumni.
