Foundation for Seminole State raises record funds at Spring 2025 events

The Foundation for Seminole State College celebrated two highly successful fundraising events this spring, generating substantial funds to support student scholarships, programs and areas of greatest need.

Record-Breaking Dream Gala

On Feb. 22, the College hosted its 41st Annual Dream Gala, themed "A Night of Magic," at the Orlando Marriott Lake Mary. Presented by Addition Financial, the sold-out event brought together the Central Florida community in a night of celebration and generosity, raising a record-breaking $630,000. The gala featured a formal dinner, silent auction, live auction and scholarship auction, with the latter alone bringing in over $200,000. The evening was led by Seminole State alumnus and WESH 2 Meteorologist Eric Burris, alongside Dr. John Gyllin, Vice President of Resource and Economic Development and Executive Director of the Foundation. Guests were treated to spellbinding magic by Eric Yuhasz and captivating performances by Seminole State students.

Melany Rodriguez Vasquez, a scholarship recipient and full-time student with a passion for physical therapy, shared her gratitude as the night’s featured student: "Receiving this scholarship allows me to continue to pursue my college career, in hopes of developing a physical therapy clinic of my own. This has truly been a blessing to me, and your earnest investment in my future goals is one I will always remember."

Video: Melany's Spellbinding Path 

The Dream Gala's success was a testament to the community's commitment to education and the transformative power it holds. The funds raised will provide critical support for scholarships, programs and other areas of need, ensuring that students like Melany can continue their educational journeys with confidence. View a listing of all Dream Gala sponsors.

Fun and Philanthropy at Dream Cup

On April 7, the College hosted the Dream Cup at Wekiva Golf Club, also presented by Addition Financial. The event raised close to $60,000, bringing together golf enthusiasts and supporters for a day of fun and philanthropy. Participants enjoyed various activities, including the Poker Hand challenge, Putting Contest and Golf Ball Cannon, which added excitement to the event. Prizes were awarded in two flights with The West End Trading Co. taking first place, followed by Dr. McGee, Kovaleski, and Rhodes Team winning the second flight, and Wharton-Smith, Inc. recognized as the most honest team.

Proceeds from the Dream Cup benefit scholarships, academic programs and hands-on learning experiences, with special support for the Women’s Golf Team and the Construction Department. The Women’s Golf Team was represented on the course, taking drives at two of the holes with alumni currently competing on the LPGA tour represented! The construction team helped with the "Construct a Putt" activity. Support and scholarships make all the difference for students like Alec Rhodes, who was representing Construction on the course and received the Wharton-Smith Endowed Scholarship for Spring 2025. Alec expressed his gratitude: "Words alone cannot express the amount of gratitude I have for this financial investment into my education. I will use it wisely. As I close in on my last few semesters, I will remember and be grateful for this. Thank you."

The Foundation for Seminole State College expressed profound gratitude to all supporters and sponsors, which are fully listed here. The event's success was made possible by the energy and enthusiasm of the participants, who filled the course from the first swing to the final putt.

Gyllin highlighted the importance of these events: "The Dream Gala and Dream Cup are vital in supporting our students and programs. The generosity of our community ensures that we can continue to provide opportunities for students to achieve their dreams."