April. 6, 2012

Every year the president at Shawnee State University has a gala event as a major fundraiser for the university. It is the university's premier community-wide social event President Rita Rice Morris and Jim Morris host each year.

This year the "Gala de la Presidente: A Night in Havanna" will be a celebration of SSU's international programs with the proceeds benefitting study abroad, international student programming, and the SSU Center for International Programs and Activities (CIPA) through the Shawnee Fund.

To prepare for the evening, complimentary salsa dance lessons are being offered to all gala attendees on Wednesday, April 18, from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Howland Recital Hall at the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts. To register for the dance lessons, call (740) 351-3284.

The gala begins at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, April 28 with hors d' oeuvres and cocktails followed by a gourmet dinner and music by Orquesta Tropikiimba in the Sodexo Ballroom at the University Center.

"The President's Gala is a special event every year that brings together the campus, our alumni and community leadership to share good news about Shawnee State," said Eric Braun, executive director of the SSU Development Foundation. "This year's gala will showcase SSU study abroad programs, international students studying on the Shawnee State campus, and a range of other opportunities made possible by the Jacobs Center for International Programs and Activities."

The event is a major fundraiser for the university. Through the support of community members and area businesses, past galas have made possible student scholarships, research grants, arts programs and other enhancements to university life.

"Such life changing experiences are made possible through the Development Foundation by those who see value in the global approach to learning and generously support Shawnee State scholarships and international initiatives," Braun said.

Reservations may be made online at http://giveto.shawnee.edu or by calling the Shawnee State University Development Foundation at (740) 351-3284. Several sponsorship opportunities are available including table sponsorships and patron tickets. Reservations are requested by Monday, April 23.

Valet parking will be available. Dress is island formal attire.