Exceeding Expectations

April 16, 2018 was a thrilling night for Macaulay Honors College. The Macaulay Foundation Board hosted its first-ever Opportunities Gala to raise funds for experiential learning, and netted over $300,000 — more than double the expected amount.

The evening began as nearly 250 donors, alumni, corporate partners, parents, and students filled the Bohemian National Hall on Manhattan’s upper east side for a reception with music by the Macaulay Musicians Collective. In addition, guests were treated to student performances throughout the evening by acapella group the Macaulay Triplets, and Bollywood hip hop dance group Deewane.

Macaulay’s amazing students remained the focus throughout the evening. Guests heard stories of academic and personal growth from students who studied abroad, participated in internships, or conducted research. Whether studying Renaissance architecture in Florence, interning with a child vaccination program, or participating in cancer research, these transformative activities were all made possible thanks to the generous contributions of private donors to the Macaulay Opportunities Fund.

Distinguished guests included Foundation Chairman Bill Macaulay and his family, former Chancellor Matthew Goldstein, and founding Dean Laura Schor. Macaulay graduates played a key role in the evening’s success: Colby Minifie ’14 graciously served as emcee, Anita Sonawane ’11 spoke movingly about her experiences at Macaulay, and Tom Brigandi ’12 and Jason Cohen ’07 each hosted tables. Nearly every class and campus were represented, with donations from alumni and their guests topping $50,000.
Dean Mary Pearl emphasized the long-term importance of the gala. “In addition to the money raised, we made many new friends and supporters of Macaulay Honors College, which promises to yield even greater levels of support for future classes of Macaulay scholars.”

Funds raised at the inaugural Opportunities Gala will provide Opportunities Fund grants to more than 180 students, with grants ranging from $1,500 to $4,000.