LEMONT FURNACE, Pa. — Excitement was in the air at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus on the evening of Nov. 14, as hundreds of well-dressed supporters dined, danced, mingled — and donated $159,000 for scholarships — at a Golden Gala celebrating the campus’ 1965 founding. The benefit was the culmination of a yearlong 50th anniversary celebration that began with kickoff receptions in January and continued with a Founders’ Day ice cream social and clock dedication in May, followed in August by an alumni barbecue and free, outdoor Beatlemania concert and fireworks show attended by more than a thousand community members.
Penn State Fayette has had a very festive 50th birthday year, according to Charles Patrick, chancellor and chief academic officer, who felt the Golden Gala was a fitting way to bring the celebration to a close. “The Gala brought together artistry, music, food, and great friends for an amazing evening,” he said. “Also, it continued our ongoing theme of student success by generating funds for student aid.”
According to Patrick, the Gala generated $159,000 to be used for scholarships, including a $100,000 multi-year commitment by The Eberly Foundation toward the Eberly Family Excellence Fund, a campus endowment used to provide emergency student aid to those with financial hardship. He noted that Robert E. Eberly Jr., president of The Eberly Foundation, made a special trip to southwestern Pennsylvania for a ceremonial check presentation at the gala.
“We thank the community and especially our donors for their generosity toward the students of Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus,” said Patrick.
Lori Omatick, director of campus development, who oversaw all of the campus’ 50th anniversary events, expressed gratitude to the alumni, students, faculty and staff who volunteered to make all of the year’s events enjoyable and successful. She said the Golden Gala required the most planning and preparation.
Omatick described the atmosphere Saturday evening in the campus community center as similar to a large nightclub with several different areas. The building’s workday interior was transformed by hundreds of yards of pipe and drape, linen-covered tables topped with golden floral centerpieces, and adjustable LED lighting that set the mood in each room.
The evening began with jazz selections by local trombonist Harold Betters and his band, as guests sipped drinks and sampled appetizers. There were several entertaining activities, including a show by extreme artist/performance painter Tom Varano, who created paintings of John Lennon, Lady Liberty, and Joe Paterno. As a bonus, these three canvases were entered into a live auction.
Following the artist’s performance, guests enjoyed international-themed food stations prepared by the Historic Stone House as the jazz music continued. The culinary trip around the world featured stops in Italy, Greece, China, Baja Mexico, and an American smoke house, as well as an elaborate dessert station with an international coffee bar.
A second live auction included paintings, jewelry, a football autographed by Coach James Franklin, and a chef-prepared, interactive six-course dinner for six at the winner’s choice of location. Throughout the evening, there was a silent auction featuring 30 additional items, such as hockey tickets and wine baskets.
Omatick noted that scholarship funds were also generated by the Golden Gala’s sponsorships and tribute book advertisements. “We are especially thankful to the more than 50 gala sponsors and numerous ad patrons whose support will help to provide access to a world-class education for our students,” she said. “For many, a few hundred dollars can make all the difference in bridging a financial need gap.” The evening’s festivities concluded with dancing to the Modern Times band, which played a variety of music that appealed to the diverse audience.
At the conclusion of the Golden Gala, Patrick thanked those who attended, as well as the many people who have supported the campus — not just during this anniversary year but also over the previous 50.
“Penn State Fayette takes great pride in being an integral part of the community and in fostering partnerships with local businesses and organizations," he said. "The show of support for the anniversary celebration by the local community has been tremendous, and for this we are very grateful.”