Roaring Twenties-themed anniversary gala to support IVCC Foundation

Illinois Valley Community College hasn’t held a gala in recent years, but this spring – as its 100th anniversary celebration ends – the College will host a rousing Roaring Twenties finale blending its past, its present and its future.

The IVCC Foundation’s 100th Anniversary Gala scheduled for Saturday, April 12, at Senica’s Oak Ridge will feature live and silent auctions, and music by the IVCC Jazz Band Combo and popular local band, Harmonix. The evening begins at 5 p.m. with hors d’oeuvres and cocktails, followed by dinner and dancing.

The past lives in the theme, recalling the decade when LPO Junior College was founded, as guests are transported to the Roaring Twenties through the magic of period- specific decorations created by Tony Einhaus of Thee Ultimate Party. The more recent past is recalled in the five-member Harmonix band, which includes an IVCC instructor and college alumni.

The present lives in the guest list filled with corporate and individual donors who have supported IVCC, its programs and its students through the years. And the future unfolds with a video montage spotlighting  scholarship recipients expressing what the awards have meant to them and their future goals.

“We are celebrating 100 years of academic excellence, and those that helped us get where we are and help us continue to grow!” said Foundation Executive Director Tracy Beattie. The videos will introduce a poignancy to the evening as guests see the faces and hear the stories of students for whom their generosity has made a difference, she added.

Live and silent auction prizes will yield a variety of gift certificates, trips, baskets of goodies, and more, Beattie said. Bidders can contend for auction prizes or contribute to build specific funds-in-need to benefit students directly.

WLPO radio host Tom Henson will serve as emcee, and IVCC President Dr. Tracy Morris will deliver remarks. JH Photography Studio will also be available all evening.

Guests can enjoy an evening of fellowship for a good cause, Beattie said. “It is a nice date night, an adult prom, where you can get dressed up and mingle – and you will  be going out to benefit a cause you can feel good about helping,” she said.

Attendance is open to the public, in addition to mailed invitations to current and past donors.  RSVPs are due March 14 or individuals may purchase tickets by using the link below, which are $125 per guest or $800 for a table for eight.

For more information and tickets, visit https://www.ivcc.edu/foundation/gala/.