University Marketing & Communications: Layton Shumway | 801-863-6863 | LShumway@uvu.edu
More than 100 students will have an opportunity for a college education, thanks to those who attended the 27th annual President's Scholarship Ball on Oct. 14. Proceeds from the event raised $226,200 this year.
President Matthew S. Holland relayed a message about the power of UVU's dual model mission and the signature role it plays in supporting student success. Much of his talk focused on his experiences this past summer as a Senior Associate at Pembroke College at the University of Oxford. During his time there, education leaders showed tremendous interest in UVU's seamless pairing of community college access and pathways with the undergraduate and graduate programs of a serious teaching university.
"I need you to know that you are part of something bigger than Orem, Utah," President Holland said. "You are part of a novel approach to education that is catching the attention not just of the nation but of the world."
UVU student speaker Jennifer Clark spoke on the importance of education. "Knowledge is power, and with that power you can do anything that you set your mind to," she said.
Clark related the story of when she was 12 and her older brother received a Presidential Scholarship to UVU. She realized how his hard work to get good grades paid off with assistance to fund a higher education.
"From that point on, I committed to myself that I would work hard so I too could attend Utah Valley University on scholarship," she said.
"Thank you for taking away the stress of paying for college," she said. "Because of this, I am able to spend more time with my family. I believe it is those family relationships that have helped me succeed in school."
The annual President's Scholarship Ball is one of Utah County's most prestigious events. The black-tie event features an evening of exquisite cuisine — hors d'oeuvres and a five-course dinner provided by the University's Culinary Arts Institute — along with outstanding entertainment.