The 2019 Party on the Plaza: Return to the Rennaisance was held Sept. 21 at Newman University with more than 500 in attendance.
The annual fundraiser, which focuses solely on raising money for student scholarships, includes dinner, drinks, a live and silent auction, live entertainment and a little fun and games for the attendees.
This year’s theme, Return to the Renaissance, carried a sentimental meaning, paying homage to Newman University’s annual Renaissance Faire, which was first held as a class project in 1975.
The Renaissance Faire eventually became a fundraiser to raise money for student scholarships, running for 26 years.
Vendors, musicians and street entertainers filled the Newman campus for hundreds of Wichita community members to enjoy.
The 2019 Party on the Plaza brought a bit of that old renaissance feel back to Newman with themed entertainment and music.
President Noreen M. Carrocci, Ph.D., said this year’s Party on the Plaza brought more people than ever.
“I’m just so grateful for the generosity of our sponsors, our table hosts and all of the people who decided that this was the way they should spend their night — supporting scholarships for Newman university students.”
Carrocci added that this year’s event was a little bittersweet since she will be retiring in December.
“I have been blessed to have these 12 years and I am so grateful for all that everybody has done during this time. To have so many of the special people who have given so much during these 12 years here tonight means the world to me.”
David Borho ’01, ’11 and his wife, Glenna, were event VIP sponsors along with Dale Withers.
The Borhos agreed that the Party on the Plaza is a great way to support Newman students with donations that will help them realize their goal of achieving higher education.
David said, “It’s such an opportunity for them to move forward in life, for them to have that step forward. It’s such a great feeling to give someone that chance because I’ve had that chance. I am … first-generation and I know what that opportunity (to) spring forward and success gives to you. It’s just fabulous.”
See all the photos from the event by visiting the Newman University Flickr page.
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