“'All That’s Jazz' brings people together through music to raise scholarship funds for Penn State Greater Allegheny students,” said Chancellor and Chief Academic Officer Jacqueline Edmondson.
Over 200 guests enjoyed music from the Benny Benack Band, featuring Benny Benack III. The band has headlined the event since its inaugural year.
“It has been a privilege to be so involved with the efforts to make 'All That’s Jazz' the annual success it is. I so look forward to the personal interactions with the students that happen every year. That ‘jazz’ can be woven into the fabric of this spectacular event is a bonus,” said Benack.
Longtime campus friends Nancy and John Traina sponsored and chaired this year’s event, making it a night to remember.
The benefit drew support from local businesses around the Greater Pittsburgh Region. Karen Kutzer Associates contributed $10,000, through a platinum sponsorship.
Kutzer, vice president of the Greater Allegheny advisory board, noted, “Amazing things are happening at Penn State Greater Allegheny. It is important to support the good work being done. Providing scholarships that give students access to this campus is the best way I can demonstrate my support.”
UPMC McKeesport as well as Clifford and Barbara Wise served as Gold Sponsors.
Chief Corporate Relations Officer for the Allegheny Conference on Community Development, Bill Flanagan, served as the master of ceremonies. Flanagan started the festivities by introducing two students, Raeann Sleith and Jay Jay Fields, who shared how scholarships helped them.
Sleith, a junior, is majoring in business management and marketing with a minor in psychology. She discussed how scholarships eased the financial burden for her and her family.
“My mom was a single mom and had to take care of my brother as well,” said Sleith. “Scholarships motivate me to not let down those generous donors out there who care about me and my education.”
Fields, a sophomore majoring in business management, is a first-generation college student. He shared how his scholarships allow him to devote more energy to his studies and less worry to his finances.
As a member of the Men’s basketball team, Fields is particularly grateful to Regis and Barbara Becker for creating the Regis W. Becker Strength and Conditioning Center at Penn State Greater Allegheny. This center provides students with Olympic style weights, machines, and more. The center was announced and dedicated at the benefit.
“The strength and conditioning room provides a chance for me to get stronger and faster for the season,” said Fields. “I am able to go straight from the center to the court where I practice my shots.”
Over its history, "All That’s Jazz" has raised more than $1 million, providing students access to a Penn State education.
“The scholarships make an incredible difference for our students, and the support our campus alumni and friends show to our students through their commitments is life changing. I truly appreciate every gift we received,” noted Edmondson.
Penn State Greater Allegheny inspires students to "be greater" by offering a transformative educational experience. Donors make it possible for Greater Allegheny students to earn a degree highly regarded in the world.