Broward College Raises More Than $600,000 in One Hour – American Dream Luncheon Raises Funds for Scholarships
Fort Lauderale, Fla., November 11, 2011 — In precisely one hour, and with the help of Challenge partners, the Broward College American Dream Luncheon raised more than $600,000 for student scholarships. More than six hundred community leaders gathered at the Signature Grand on Novmber 3 to meet hardworking Broward College students who are achieving their American Dreams of education.
Broward College President J. David Armstrong, Jr. introduced sixty Broward College students — the community’s next generation of business, civic and cultural leaders, public servants and philanthropists — who dined with luncheon guests. Broward College student and U.S. Army veteran Michael Vega, Broward College alumna and attorney Cheryl Dene-Spring and Broward College graduate and NSU senior Robert Diaz shared the transformative impact attending Broward College has made in their lives.
“There are few things as fundamental to the American Dream or more essential to one’s success than a good education,” said Nancy R. Botero, Broward College vice president of advancement and Broward College Foundation executive director. “That is why Broward College created the American Dream Scholarship. We marshalled our best and brightest resources — and that is why we invited the community to share this special day.”
Balfour Beatty Construction CEO Ray Southern and Wells Fargo Vice President Alan Irwin, along with the Leo Goodwin Foundation each issued $25,000 matching challenges to guests. “Because we believe education is the foundation of a strong community, Balfour Beatty Construction supports students who are pursuing higher education goals. We want to help students achieve their dreams because it changes their lives for the better and builds productive communities for everyone. We will match every dollar raised up to $25,000 — that is how strongly we believe in this community and Broward College,” said Ray Southern.
Alan Irwin increased the momentum by stating, “Wells Fargo is proud to support organizations working to strengthen our community. As one of America’s largest financial institutions, we want to satisfy all our customers’ financial needs and help them succeed financially. To that end, a very promising investment today is higher education and that is why Wells Fargo is also taking the opportunity to invest in the American Dream Fund. Wells Fargo, too, will match every dollar raised here today — up to $25,000.” AutoNation, Integrated Fire Solutions and Templeton International also issued matching challenges.
The American Dream Luncheon was completely underwritten by AutoNation, BB&T, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida, Acai Associates, Inc., Delta Dental, Fastrack MCI, Greenberg Traurig and JM Family Enterprises, Inc.
“It is truly humbling to see the outpouring of support for our community’s working students at the American Dream Luncheon,” said Lloyd Rhodes, American Dream Luncheon chair. “In these challenging times, it is heartening to know that the spirit of philanthropy is alive and well iin Broward County.”
