information from South Seattle College

South Seattle College announced tonight that the annual Gifts from the Earth fundraising event raised nearly $222,000, a new record in its thirteen-year history. This is the fourth-consecutive year that a new Gifts-record has been set.

Proceeds from the event benefits South’s Foundation in its mission to support South students and programs with scholarships, internships, emergency funding, tutoring and more.

“Gifts from the Earth is an inspiring event where philanthropists and our sponsors come together for the common goal of supporting South students in their pursuit of a higher education and a fulfilling career,” South Seattle College President Gary Oertli said. “Their support has an enormous impact on our students’ ability to realize their dreams.”

South’s supporters started their night with a silent auction accompanied by appetizers and wines crafted by South’s Culinary Arts, Pastry and Baking Arts, and Northwest Wine Academy students and alumni. Next, the sold out event moved to the Jerry M. Brockey Center, where guests enjoyed a multi-course meal created by 16 celebrity Northwest chefs – including a Gifts-record seven South Alums. Students from the college’s culinary, wine and Hospitality Management B.A.S. programs helped the chefs prep, cook and serve.

This year South student Sarah Phillips addressed the sold-out audience and shared her inspiring educational journey that was made possible by contributions to South’s Foundation.

“Since receiving two foundation scholarships, I found the confidence to apply for other scholarships and continue my education,” Phillips, who hopes to earn a doctorate in computer science, said. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without your generous support.”

Gifts from the Earth is made possible by the support of the following sponsors: Food Services of America (title sponsor), Boeing, Northern Trust, Rebar and Associates, McGranahan Architects, QBSI, WSECU, Vigor Industrial, Southern Wine and Spirits, The Gene Colin and Susan Janus Charitable Fund, and Hargis Engineering.